[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 189 
' Lieut. Col. Nichol to Talbot. 
Niagara April 29 
My Dear Colonel 14 past 3 A.M. 
An Express arrived about an hour ago with very distressing 
accounts from York—in Short it appears—that York was about w 
surrender to the Enemy—after having had both its Magazines exploded 
& suffering very great loss in killed and wounded— We know not what 
has become of Sir Roger but suppose he is a prisoner. In such a 
juncture it is necessary that every prompt and decisive measure should 
be adopted to remedy this disaster—to prevent the Enemy profiting in 
any great degree by this Success. You are so much better acquainted 
with the localities of the Country—than the General himself that every- 
thing in your District is left to Your own discretion—& it is hoped 
that the Enemy may yet be prevented from penetrating into the Country 
on the Side of the Head of the Lake. It will be necessary that you 
keep up a regular Communication with Ancaster & regulate your move- 
ments by the Accounts you may receive from thence, keeping an eye 
at the same time upon the Lake—from whence however—it is not sup- 
posed the Enemy can commence operations for some time yet. Arms 
and ammunition are on the way for you. 
In great haste, 
faithfully yours, 
Rost. NicHoL Lt. Col. 
Q.M. Genl. Militia. 
Col. Talbot. 
(The address is as follows, endorsed :) 
April 29 . On Service 
1813 
Coll. Talbot 
Commg 
London District. 
To be forwarded immediately 
Lt. Col. Nichol. 
Draft letter, Col. Talbot to Brig. Gen. Vincent. 
My Dear General. Dover Mills 18th May 1813. 
Your favor of the 11th instant reached me at a late hour last 
night. I had for two days been anticipating much gratifying com- 
