And if there is no expedition to the westward then, nor a force more considerable than Virginia can support, posted on our frontiers; if we still adhere, for the next campaign, to our destructive defensive schemes, there will not, I dare affirm, be one soul living on this side the Blue Ridge the ensuing autumn, if we except the troops in garrison, and a few inhabitants of this town, who may shelter themselves under the protection of this fort.

This I know to be the immoveable determination of all the settlers of this country." To the Speaker of the assembly he gave the same opinion; and added, "I do not know on whom these miserable undone people are to rely for protection.

If the assembly are to give it to them, it is time that measures were at least concerting, and not when they ought to be going into execution, as has always been the case.

If they are to seek it from the Commander-in-chief, it is time their condition was made known to him.

For I can not forbear repeating again, that, while we pursue defensive measures, we pursue inevitable ruin." {August 27.} It was impossible for Colonel Washington, zealous in the service of his country, and ambitious of military fame, to observe the errors committed in the conduct of the war, without censuring them.