Extract of a Letter to a Gentleman in Hartford, Dated Fort George, Near Ticonderoga, June 29, 1775

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The reports from the northward are various; it is thought, from the best accounts, that the Canadians will be very reluctant to enter into the service against the Colonies, and it is pretty certain that General Carleton has hanged two or three of them for refusing, and speaking to discourage others; so that it is on the whole believed, that through all the stratagems of tyranny, Carleton will dragoon a number of the Canadians, and Indians into the service, and it is generally believed he is making preparations to come against us; but some think otherwise, and that he is only fortifying at St˙ Johns, to prevent any incursions from us. Doubtless a short time will discover which of these is the truth. We have certain intelligence that Guy Johnson is making all the interest possible to raise the Indians about the Lakes and Oswegatchie against us.