In conformity with their plans the Fenian troops gathered at convenient places to make their raids on the objective points in Ontario they had in view.
Owing to the extreme probability of an attack being made on Cornwall by the Fenians who had gathered at Malone, N.Y., it was deemed advisable by the Government to assemble a large force for the defence of that place as speedily as possible.

Therefore orders were wired at 2 p.m.on May 24th to Lieut.-Col.

F.T.Atcherly, Deputy Adjutant-General of the 4th Military District, to call out the militia force at Brockville and Prescott forthwith for active service.

This was immediately accomplished and guards posted for the protection of these towns.

On the following day he received instructions to proceed at once to Cornwall and assume command of the force there.