a force to reduce Michilimakinack.  Unless we occupy completely both banks, no vessel could pass the river St. Clair.  What I therefore presume to suggest for his excellency’s consideration, is the adoption of a project which Sir James Craig contemplated three years ago.  The north-west company undertook to transport 50 or 60 men up the Ottawa, and I make no doubt would engage again to perform the same service.  If therefore a war be likely to occur, at the time the canoes start from Montreal, I should recommend 40 or 50 of the 49th light company, and a small detachment of artillery, embarking at the same time for St. Joseph’s.  Should hostilities commence, the north-west would not object to join their strength in the reduction of Michilimakinack; and should peace succeed the present wrangling, the 49th detachment could be easily removed to Amherstburg.

Colonel Baynes to Major-General Brock.

    QUEBEC, February 20, 1812.

Captain M’Donnell has not clearly understood the purport of his mission to Upper Canada, and the general regrets that he should have proceeded the length he has done without having previously received your advice and instructions, to obtain which was the chief object of his visit to York.  It is to be hoped, however, that sufficient patronage still remains open to meet your wishes, as the appointment of three of General Shaw’s sons may be considered, from the sentiments of friendship and regard you have testified for that officer, to be almost equivalent to anticipating your own choice of them.  And Sir George has directed me to inform you, that he readily accepts of your proposal to recruit two companies, to be added to the Glengary Fencibles; the nomination of the officers, viz. two captains, two lieutenants, and two ensigns, to rest entirely with you.  The general has approved of the following quotas of men for the respective ranks:  captains 30, lieutenants 15, and ensigns 20; the commissions to be issued on completing the quota, and such as complete their proportion quickest, or exceed in extra number of recruits, will have priority in regimental rank.  I am not aware that Sir George purposes nominating a lieutenant-colonel; but I am sure that you will not feel less disposed to promote the formation of this corps, when I inform you that it is his intention to recommend me to the commander-in-chief for the appointment of colonel.

Colonel Baynes to Major-General Brock.

    QUEBEC, February 22, 1812.

Sir George is much pleased with the favorable account Captain Gray has given him of your proceedings.  Your speech is highly approved of here, and we shall rejoice to find our house following so laudable an example as your commons have shewn them:  but I am not sanguine; they have already commenced with great illiberality and violence to vent their spleen and resentment against Sir James (Craig) in votes of censure, and I fancy Sir George, with all his amiable, conciliatory mariners, will hardly succeed in keeping them within bounds.

Major-General Brock to Sir George Prevost.