He was persuaded by Madison, however, to accept a brigadier general's commission and to lead the force ordered to Detroit.

His instructions were vague, but in June, 1812, shortly before the declaration of war, he took command of two thousand regulars and militia at Dayton, Ohio, and began the arduous advance through the wilderness towards Detroit.

The adventure was launched with energy.

These hardy, reliant men knew how to cut roads, to bridge streams, and to exist on scanty rations.

Until sickness began to decimate their ranks, they advanced at an encouraging rate and were almost halfway to Detroit when the tidings of the outbreak of hostilities overtook them.