The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

PART I.] THE FRENCH WAR. 259
at Williamsburg, which would be of great service here.
We have a quantity of round and grape-shot for sixpounders, but no cannon for using them. _ A few pieces
of that size would be an essential addition to our
strength; and, as this is the only place we have, at
which, were it finished, a stand could be made, in case
of any formidable attack, I conceive nothing in our
power should be omitted to make it as defensible as
we can.
Mr. Rutherford is not yet returned. Enclosed is a
list of the persons killed and captured by the enemy,
when last down. I am, &c.
TO GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE.
Fort Loudoun, 5 October, 1757.
SIR,
Both your Honor's letters of the 24th ultimo I received by Jenkins. As I cannot now send a proper
monthly return of the regiment, for want of the remarks
of the officers at the out-posts, I enclose an exact return of our effective strength, and how it is disposed of,
which will at present answer the end proposed. I likewise send you the return of provisions, specifying the
time they will serve.
The assistant commissaries must still be continued,
or some persons in their room, who, under the direction
of a principal, would have purchased the provisions upon
as good terms as any contractor. Besides, the commissary used to act as wagon-master, supply the different garrisons with candles, made from the tallow of
the country's beeves, and do many things for the good
of the service, not to be expected from a contractor.
I shall take the earliest opportunity of communicating