Letter signed : Headquarters, West Point, to [Governor] Clinton, 1779 Oct. 4.

Enclosing a resolution by Congress "by which you will perceive they expect the arrival of his Excellency Count D'Estaing, and that I am directed to pursue measures for cooperating with him, and to call upon the several States for such aid as shall appear to me necessary for this important purpose;" estimating the "force of Militia which will be indispensable, in conjunction with the Continental Troops" and apportioning the force "to the neighboring States according to the best judgment I am able to form of their respective circumstances and abilities;"informing him that he will ask for 2,500 soldiers from New York State and believes that with that number "a decisive stroke may be attempted against New York with a reasonable prospect of success. If the supply falls short the disappointment will inevitably produce a failure in the undertaking;" suggesting a term of service of three months and a point of rendezvous at Fishkill; discussing the impact of increasing troop levels on the ability to provide flour to them for subsistence and the difficulties in transporting flour to the troops; saying that "These difficulties were sufficient to deter me from the plan I mean to pursue, were I not convinced that the magnitude of the object will call forth all the vigor of the States and inspire the people with a disposition to second the plans of the Governors and give efficacy to the measures they adopt;" discussing the effect of their success or failure on the allies; adding that they are looking "for the appearance of the French Squadron on the Coast - the emergency is pressing - and all our measures ought to be attended with suitable expedition. Every moment is of infinite value."