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OSL HENRY BRUCK[?] TO MEIGS

Head Quarters in the Fort River Raison

Aug 11th. 1812

Dr. Sir

We arrived here with our provisions safe evening before last and find ourselves in a Country where we know not our friends or foes speaking in regard of the inhabitants, and consequently not the most pleasantly sit- uated but still in good spirits, not much disposed to fear and ready for the worst -- The communication between us and our army is altogether stopped, probably interupted and cut off by the enemy -- We receive many reports some of good tidings others of evil import and very alarming if to be accepted[?] but I put but little faith in any of them -- The inhabitants here are principally Canadian french and little to be trusted yet composing the Militia of the Country armed and furnished with the munitions of war and considerably numerous -- They pretend fidelity while their actions [blotted out] -- cate the contrary in many instances - Indeed one of the Officers of the horse Company informed me that he believed one hundred of them would be faithful to us and for his part such was his determination -- He said twice[?] the number he believed would pretend a desire to be neu- tral with a concealed intention of joining our enemy in case of a fight-- Pilleg.] which we confidently expect unless the exertions of Genl. Hull in our favor shall prevent it which he has promised us and we hope will make good. We have reports of two battles at Browms Town, favorable and unfavor- able we know not which -- Genl Hull has ordered me to remain here with the provi[sions] until reinforced by a detachment from his army or until fur- ther orders from him one of which we hourly expect -- Major Couch[?] arrived here last night with a detachment from his Rangers about 26 our force now is about 160 formed into a Battallion by mutual consent -- I think the times will justify your Excellency in ordering all the troops that can be marshalled speedily on this rout -- The British are strengthening and re- inforcing Malden-- The Indians thicken around us -- Your excellency's obt servt.

Henry Bruch Comt