Could Arnold have immediately crossed the St.Lawrence, and have availed himself of the first consternation, it is believed that he might have entered the place without opposition; but a high wind, and the want of boats, rendered the passage of the river impossible.
One of his Indian messengers, despatched with letters to General Schuyler, had either betrayed him or been intercepted; and thus intelligence of his approach was communicated to Colonel M'Clean who was then at the mouth of the Sorel.

Trembling for the capital of the province, that gallant veteran determined to throw himself into it, and endeavour to defend it.

In the mean time, the winds continued so high for several nights as to render the passage of the river in the canoes which had been collected, too hazardous to be attempted; and it was only in the night that the Americans could hope to cross, because four ships of war were distributed at different stations in the river, and armed boats were employed to ply around them.

Whilst the Americans were thus unavoidably detained on the south side of the St.Lawrence, Colonel M'Clean, with his corps of emigrants, entered the city.
{November 12.} At length the wind moderated; and Arnold determined to attempt the river.

Eluding the armed vessels, and conquering a rapid current, he, with great difficulty and danger, crossed over in the night, and landed his little army about a mile and a half above the place which is rendered memorable by the disembarkation of Wolfe.