My Lettre of the 16th June informed you of the defeat of a Body of Volunteer Militia, who went against Sandusky. That disaster has not abated the Ardor or desire for revenge (as they term it) of these people. A number of the most respectfull are urging me Strenuously to take command of them, and add as many continental Officers and Soldiers, as can be Spared: particularly Officers as they attribute the defeat, to the want of experience in their officers. They can not, nor will not rest under any plan on the defensive, however well executed: and think, their only safety depends on the total destruction of all the Indian Setlements within Two hundred Miles. This, tis true—they are taught by dear bought experience—They propose to raise by subscription, Six or Seven Hundred Men—provisions for them for Fourty days—and horses to carry it, clear of expense to the public: unless Government at their own time shall think proper to reimburse them. The first of August they talk of assembling, if I think proper to encourage them. I am by no means fond of such commands; nor am I sanguine in my expectations: but rather doubtfull of the consequences—and yet absolutely to refuse, having any thing to do with them, when their proposals are so generous and seemingly Spirited I conceive would not do well either: especially as people too generally, particularly in this Quarter are Subject to be clamorous, and charge Continental Officers with want of Zeal, activity and inclination of doing the needfull for their protection—I have declined giving them an immediate direct answer, and have informed them, that my going depends on circumstances: and in the mean time I have called for returns of the men, who may be depended on to go—the subscription of provisions—and Horses. The distance to Head quarters is so great, that it is uncertain, whether an express could return in time, with the Commander in Chiefs instructions. As you must Know, whether any movements will take place in this Quarter, or are of opinion, it would on any account be improper for me to leave the post: I request You would please to write me by Express. But if no answer arrives before or about the first of August, I shall take for granted You have no Objections; and that I may act discretionally—Should it be judged expedient for me to go, the greatest number of Troops fit to march, will not exceed One Hundred. The Militia are pressing that I shall take all the Continentals along and leave the defence of the Post to them; But this, I shall by no means do. If circumstances should seem to require it, I shall throw in a few Militia with those regulars left—but Under continental officers. I have the honor to be With great Respect Sir Your obedient humble Servant