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HARRISON TO EUSTIS Cincinnati 29th August 1812 Sir I did myself the Honor to write to you Yesterday and dispatched the letter by an Express thinking that he rould be able to overtake the Mail at Chilicothe. The Troops marched this morning for Piqua, I shall follow and overtake them Tomorrow. Another letter was received from General Worthington last Evening covering one from Capt Rhea of Fort Wayne stat- ing that a large body of Indians were near the Fort and he expected to be attacked that Night. I shall lose not a moment in marching to his re- lief and I think more than probable that we shall have to encounter all the Indians who assisted at the taking of Detroit, those to whom Chicago was surrendered and a very large number of others who will be induced by the fa me of their Exploits to join the hostile party. Permit me to recommend that a considerable supply of Tents Swords and Pistols, Camp Kettles, Cartridge boxes rifle flints and artificers tools of every description be forwarded immediately as well as the Artillery and every species of ordinance Stores -- Medicine Instruments and hospi- tal stores of every description will also be wanted for the large force which it will require to reinstate our affairs upon the North Western Frontier. It is important also that some disciplined Troops should be sent here, a company or two of artillery and an experienced engineer will be indispensable. I have caused a travelling forge to be prepared and ammunition Waggons are now building - It appeared to me Sir that it was necessary that some one should undertake the general direction of affairs here and I have done it - The Critical situation of affairs in this country in my opinion authorised a departure from the common line of procedure (to wait for orders) and should it be considered by the Government to have been impro- per I shall I hope be pardoned for the purity of my intentions. You may rely upon it Sir that the Western Country was never so agitated by alarm and mortification as at this time.I have the Honor to be with Great Respect Sir Your Humble Servant (signed) Willm Henry Harrison The Honble 25 |
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