[draft] West point 15 Augt 1783 Enclosed is the State of the ordnance at the northern posts. Your Excellency will be able to judge whether any can be taken from thence to be carried forward and [inserted: from] which place. Upon a consideration of the importance of Niagra perhaps [struck: will] [inserted: it] may not be advisable to leave seven Cannon than twelve of Different sizes and six mortars and Howister [strikeout] These would form [struck: one or] two [inserted: or three] respectable batteries, [struck: and if] and although I am unacquainted with the nature of the Grounds around the place - yet as the enemy could bring heavy Cannon with facility, It could perhaps not only be proper but even necessary that [struck: three] that [struck: two] three or four of the Cannon should be 101 pounders. Probably for the same reason [struck: one or] two eighteens ought to be at Oswego. As [struck: that] [inserted: the] heavy Cannon and stores must be forwarded from this post, the expence and trouble will be considerable, but if the measure is necessary those circumstances cannot [struck: to] have [inserted: sufficient] [strikeout] weight [2] [strikeout] to obstruct the transportation. I will be obliged by your Excellecys directions upon the subject. The detachment. of artillery [struck: which were] for the northern duty will want cloathing. blankets [inserted: shoes] & ca which I hope are in the Store - The Infantry will want the same. I have the honor to be with the highest Respect - Your Excellencys Most Obedient Servant. His Excellency Genl Washington [docket] To His Excly Gen Washington 15 Aug. 1783.