The militia, which I destined for this service, will now be alarmed, and unwilling to leave their families to the mercy of 400 Indians, whose conduct affords such wide room for suspicion; and really to expect that this fickle race will remain in a state of neutrality in the midst of war, would be truly absurd.

The Indians have probably been led to this change of sentiment by emissaries from General Hull, whose proclamation to the Six Nations is herewith enclosed.
I have not deemed it of sufficient consequence to commence active operations on this line, by an attack on Fort Niagara.
It can be demolished, when found necessary, in half an hour, and there my means of annoyance would terminate.

To enable the militia to acquire some degree of discipline without interruption, is of far greater consequence than such a conquest.

Every thing in my power shall be done to overcome the difficulties by which I am surrounded; but without strong reinforcements, I fear the country cannot be roused to make exertions equal to meet this crisis.
I proceed immediately to York, to attend the meeting of the legislature, and I hope to return on Wednesday.

The charge of this frontier will in the mean time devolve on Lieut.-Colonel Myers, who appears worthy of every confidence.