out the necessity of an increase, if possible, of artillerymen to our present small number of regulars.  The militia evinced a good spirit, but fired without much effect.  The enemy, however, must have lost some men; and it is only wonderful, that in a contest of a whole day no life was lost on our side.  The fire of the enemy was incessant, but badly directed, till the close of the day, when it began to improve.  Lieutenant Rolette, who commanded the Detroit, had, and I believe deservedly, the character of a brave, attentive officer.  His vessel must, however, have been surprised—­an easy operation where she lay at anchor; and I have reason to suspect that this consideration was not sufficiently attended to by the officers commanding on board and on shore.

We have not only sustained a heavy loss in the vessel, but likewise in the cargo, which consisted of four 12-pounders, a large quantity of shot, and about 200 muskets, all of which were intended for Kingston and Prescott.

The only consolation remaining is, that she escaped the enemy, whose conduct, after his first essay, did not entitle him to so rich a prize.  The enemy has brought some boats over land from Schlosher to the Niagara river, and made an attempt last night to carry off the guard over the store at Queenston.  I shall refrain as long as possible, under your excellency’s positive injunctions, from every hostile act, although sensible that each day’s delay gives him an advantage.

Sir Isaac Brock to Colonel Proctor, at Detroit.

The unfortunate disaster which has befallen the Detroit and Caledonia will reduce us to great distress.  They were boarded whilst at anchor at Fort Erie and carried off:  you will learn the particulars from others.  A quantity of flour and a little pork were ready to be shipped for Amherstburg; but as I send you the flank companies of the Newfoundland, no part of the provisions can go this trip in the Lady Prevost.  It will be necessary to direct her to return with all possible speed, bringing the Mary under her convoy.  You will husband your pork, for I am sorry to say there is but little in the country.

An active interesting scene is going to commence with you.  I am perfectly at ease as to the result, provided we can manage the Indians and keep them attached to your cause, which in fact is theirs.

The fate of the province is in your hands.  Judging by every appearance, we are not to remain long idle in this quarter.  Were it not for the positive injunctions of the commander of the forces, I should have acted with greater decision.  This forbearance may be productive of ultimate good, but I doubt its policy—­but perhaps we have not the means of judging correctly.  You will of course adopt a very different line of conduct.  The enemy must be kept in a state of constant ferment.  If the Indians act as they did under Tecumseh, who probably might be