From Amherstburg to Fort Erie, my chief dependance must rest on a naval force for the protection of that extensive coast; but, considering the state to which it is reduced, extraordinary exertions and great expense will be required before it can be rendered efficient.  At present, it consists only of a ship and a small schooner—­the latter of a bad construction, old, and in want of many repairs; yet she is the only king’s vessel able to navigate Lake Huron, whilst the Americans have a sloop, and a fine brig capable of carrying twelve guns, both in perfect readiness for any service.  If, consequently, the garrison of St. Joseph’s is to be maintained, and an attack on Michilimakinack undertaken, it will be expedient to hire, or purchase from the merchants, as many vessels as may be necessary for the purpose.  The Americans can resort to the same means, and the construction and number of their vessels for trade will give them great advantage:  besides, their small craft, or boats, in which troops could be easily transported, exceed ours considerably; indeed, we have very few of that description.  I therefore leave it to your excellency’s superior judgment to determine whether a sufficient number of gun-boats for both lakes, so constructed as to draw little water, ought not be added to our means of offence and defence.  It is worthy of remark, that the only American national vessel on Lake Ontario, built two years ago, and now lying in Sackett’s harbour, has remained without seamen until within the last fortnight, when the officers began to enter men as fast as possible.  A lieutenant with a party came to Buffalo, a tolerably large village opposite Fort Erie, and procured several hands, but, not satisfied, a petty officer was sent to our side to inveigle others.  The magistrates, hearing of this, sent to apprehend him; but he escaped with difficulty.

The strait between Niagara and Fort Erie is that which, in all probability, will be chosen by the Americans for their main body to penetrate with a view to conquest.  All other attacks will be subordinate, or merely made to divert our attention.  About three thousand militia could, upon an emergency, be drawn by us to that line, and nearly five hundred Indians could also be collected; therefore, with the regulars, no trifling force could hope for success, provided a determined resistance were made; but I cannot conceal from your excellency, that unless a strong regular force be present to animate the loyal and to control the disaffected, nothing effectual can be expected.  A protracted resistance upon this frontier will be sure to embarrass the enemy’s plans materially.  They will not come prepared to meet it, and their troops, or volunteer corps, without scarcely any discipline, so far at least as control is in question, will soon tire under disappointment.  The difficulty which they will experience in providing provisions will involve them in expenses, under which their government will soon become impatient.