Sir George strongly recommends extreme moderation in the use of the Indians, and to keep them in control as much as possible.
[This letter contains the details of a large and armed assembly at La Chine, near Montreal, of French Canadians, who refused to serve in the embodied militia.

They were dispersed by the light company of the 49th, and a detachment of artillery with two field pieces, under the command of Major Plenderleath, of the 49th, but not before one Canadian was killed and another dangerously wounded.] _Sir George Prevost to Major-General Brock_.
MONTREAL, July 7, 1812.
It was only on my arrival at Montreal that I received Mr.
Foster's notification of the congress of the United States having declared war against Great Britain; the fact had been previously ascertained through mercantile channels.
I am convinced you have acted wisely in abstaining from offensive operations, which in their effect might have united a people governed by public opinion, and among whom too much division exists, at this moment, to admit of its influence in promoting vigorous measures against us.
The manner of the flank companies of militia turning out must have been very satisfactory to you.

I hope your supplies of ordnance and ordnance stores, on their way from Kingston, have arrived safe.
I have caused arms, accoutrements and ammunition, to be forwarded for the use of the Cornwall, Stormont, and Dundas battalions of militia.

Camp equipage for 500 men shall be sent to you as soon as possible, together with muskets.
We are on the eve of substituting paper for bullion.

I am aware of the Canadian prejudice against such a circulating medium, but it must give way to the imperious necessity of the times.
It is highly proper you should secure the services of the Indians; but restrain and control them as much as you can.
Whatever appointments you deem indispensably necessary you are authorized to make, as well as the sacrifice of some money to gain them over.