Lord George Germaine to Haldimand (No.23). Despatches received. The decision on Campbell's claim to pay and to the command of the King's troops, from his commission of colonel of Indians, is judicious. Theonly reason for Indian commissions was to prevent subalterns in the King's regiments from assuming command of them in a joint expedition. Mr. St. Luc's claim no better founded. The reason for making Lieut. Governors commandants of posts; their duty to supervise the cultivation that may be undertaken round the posts. The failure of the crops must increase the difficulties of the rebels in the invasion of Canada. Clinton's operations should prevent them from sending troops to Detroit or Niagara.
Washington's whole force does not exceed 8,000 men; the service time of one third of the men expired on the first day of the year, and no new levies could be raised, owing to the worthlessness of the paper currency. The attention to the safety of the upper posts not to abate. The provision for Joseph's sister (Brant) approved of. Purchase of the Sorel seigniory recommended. The motives for stopping the large supply of arms to the upper posts by traders; the rule to be impartial. His refusal of Finlay's proposal as to the posts perfectly right. Lord Hillsborough will write to Turin about Savoyard priestsfor Canada. The vast importance of drawing over Vermont. The inducements to be held out. The commission of Governor of Quebec does not entitle him to pardon treason. If convinced of their sincerity, he may pardon the 200 Canadians and transmit their names that a nol. pros. may be entered.
La Valini¿re and Michael Voyer prisoners sent to England, the former dead, the latter released from want of evidence. The inconvenience of sending prisoners without ample proof, as they cannot be heldin England or prevented from going to France. Lowder and d'Abadie sent to Nova Scotia will be more secure. All prisoners from the revolted Provinces are committed as guilty of high treason, not as prisoners of war. Proof must therefore be sent. Lieuts. Schank and Chambers promoted. Will be glad to receive his ideas as to the jurisprudence of Canada; in the meantime the observance of hisinstructions, will bring out the real sentiments of the inhabitants.