[Copy] War Department Oct^r 25. 1792 Sir, As there cannot be the least doubt of the dispositions of the Indians, to make all possible incroads on the Frontier, as early as the Season will admit, it there ought not to be the least omission in delay in placing out the Scouts, and putting the Frontier inhabitants in the best posture of Defence. — In addition to the above suggestions and supposition, founded, on the probable State of things, some information has been received by which it would appear to have been the intention of the Indians to have acted with great violence against the [strikethrough: settlements] [undecipherable: between — but the] severity of the Season then presented — but any preparation ought to be made for their reception the ensuing Spring on an an habitual Vigilance established to guard against being surprised.— Congress are about making a provision which is conceived to be adequate for offensive operations, which when matured will afford the requisite protection, but in the mean time the inhabitants must be kept alert, and every expedient adopted for Security — I am — with the most your very humble & just H. Knox [Head?] of the Country Fd. Washington a Copy [undecipherable]