At the same time that I ordered a Reinforcement to Powlis Hook I wrote to Col. Derkee to know the State of that Post as to force1—For tho Col. Humpton had been but a few days ago on that Spot to bring me an exact Return—such is the ever fluctuating State of our Melitia and infamous Desertion—that we are not at any one Post two days in the same State as to Numbers—Your Excellencys Letter was deliverd late last night2—I shall regulate the force sent to Powlis Hook agreable to what I hear from Col. Derkee—I expect a Return to my Letter every moment. I have the honour to be Sir Your Excellencys most obedt Servt