"The Confiance at this moment is in such a state, as to require at least a day[107] or two to make her efficient before the enemy; but with all the exertion I can use, it will probably be that time at least, before it will be possible to get her up to Chazy, where I shall be happy to receive any further communication from your Excellency.
"I have the honour to be, Sir,
"Your most obedient servant,
"Geo. Downie."
"His Excellency Lieut.-Gen.
Sir G. Prevost, Bart. &c. &c."
"Head-Quarters, Plattsburg,
Thursday Morning, 8th Sept. 1814.
"Sir,
"I have just received your reply to my communication of yesterday.
"As it is of the highest importance the ship, vessels, and gun-boats, under your command, should commence a co-operation with the division of the army, now occupying Plattsburg, I have sent my Aid-de-Camp, Major Coore, with this letter, in order that you may obtain from him correct information of the disposition made by the enemy of his naval force in this bay.
"I only wait for your arrival to proceed against General Macomb's last position, on the south bank of the Saranac. Your share in the operation, in the first instance, will be to destroy or capture the enemy's squadron, if it should wait for a contest, and afterwards co-operate with this division of the army; but if it should run away, or get out of your reach, we must meet here to consult on ulterior movements.
"I have the honour to be, &c.
(Signed) "G. Prevost."