Sir,

My strength is reduced so low that I am under the Necessaty [sic] of Collecting the small remains into One Body, as it is impossable [sic] to do any service in the Weak and scattered Condition. I had them posted, two thirds of their time were taken up hunting Provisions, which the Detached parties had always to Procure for themselves, being too Grate [sic] a distance to be supplied by the Commissary.

Inclosed [sic], I send you a Return of my Numbers, and when their times Expires. None of the Classes, either from Northampton, Cumberland, York, or Northumberland, has yet arrived at camp. I am assured by several People from Northampton, that the Lieu^ts of that County has not rece^d their Instructions for calling them out, which induces me to believe the Orders from your Excellency has [sic] been miscarried.

Two Horse Onely [sic] has Joined me from Philadelphia and Bucks, though I hear more is making Ready.

The Enemy has made several Manoevers [sic], as if as if they were coming out with large Forraging [sic] parties, but advance no further than Frankford. Seven Deserters from them came to me last week- two Hessians, the Others British Soldiers,

I have appointed Lieu't David FORST my Brigade Major, and beg your Excellency will please to forward him a Commission by this Express.

I would be glad to know if any mode is Fixed to obtain the State Liquor, due the Militia, and what my duty is respecting it.

I remain sir,
you [sic] very humble servant,

John LACEY, Jr.

Directed,

To His Excellency Thomas WHARTON, Jur., Esqr., Lancaster.