But it was not strong enough to stand a very heavy assault, although it was provided with seventeen cannons, besides some mortars and swivels.
The garrison numbered at this time something over two thousand; but there were many sick amongst these, and sickness was inclined to spread, to the grave anxiety of the commander.
Fourteen miles away to the south lay Fort Edward, and General Webb was there with some fifteen hundred men.

He had sent on as many men as he felt able to spare some short time before, in response to an appeal from Colonel Monro.

Disquieting rumours of an advance from Ticonderoga were every day coming to their ears.

Summer was at its height, and if a blow were to be struck, it would certainly be soon.
A scouting party was sent out under the command of a certain Colonel Parker, in order to learn the strength of the enemy and what they were about.

Three days passed in anxious suspense, and as nothing was heard of the scouting party, Fritz begged leave to go forth with a handful of men to look for them, promising not to expose himself or them to danger.