General Schuyler to the President of Congress

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Ticonderoga, October 20, 1775.

SIR: Since doing myself the honour to write you this morning, by the gentleman who brought your despatches, two very material matters have occurred to me, and I send this by express, to overtake the gentleman.

I have unfortunately, too, too much reason to apprehend that very few of the troops to the northward will engage to remain in Canada, should we succeed; what is to be done in such a case ? The season is too far advanced to raise troops below; and should they refuse to re-enlist, how dreadful the consequences.

From whence are the troops in Canada (on a supposition that we succeed, and they willing to remain) to be supplied with ammunition? as Mr˙ Carleton will most certainly destroy all, should he be obliged to quit the country, and we shall have none left.

These matters I humbly conceive require the immediate attention of Congress.

I am, Sir, most respectfully, your most obedient humble servant, PHILIP SCHUYLER.

To the Honourable John Hancock, Esq˙, &c.