"In manning the flotilla and ships, we are many short. I have made application to the officer commanding at Chazy, for a company of the 39th regiment to make up.
"I have the honour to be, Sir,
"Your most obedient servant,
"Geo. Downie."
"His Excellency Sir Geo. Prevost,
Bart. &c. &c. &c."
"P. S. I have just this moment received your letter of this day, to which the preceding is, I think, a sufficient answer.
"G. D."
"Head-Quarters, Plattsburg,
Saturday Morning, 10th Sept. 1814.
"Sir,
"I received, at twelve last night, your letter, acquainting me with your determination to get under weigh, about that time, in the expectation of rounding Cumberland Head at dawn of day; in consequence, the troops have been held in readiness, since six o'clock this morning, to storm the enemy's works at nearly the same moment as the naval action should commence in the bay. I ascribe the disappointment I have experienced to the unfortunate change of wind, and I shall rejoice to learn from you, that my expectations have been frustrated by no other cause.
"I have the honour to be, &c.
(Signed) "G. Prevost."
"To Capt. Downie, &c. &c. &c."