"There are four small forts between New Orleans and Twigtwies," one of the Frenchmen said.
"And how many men?" Washington asked.
"About forty, and a few pieces of artillery."
"What is there at New Orleans?"
"A large fort at the mouth of the Mississippi, with thirty-five companies of forty men each."
"How many guns does the fort mount?"
"Eight carriage guns."
"Quite a formidable affair," remarked Washington. "With courage and skill to correspond they can withstand quite a siege; and what is there at Twigtwies?"
"Several companies, and a fort mounting six guns."
"And is that all?"