A Plan of Operations Consulted and agreed upon by Governor Dinwiddie of Virginia, Governor Dobbs of North Carolina, and Governor Sharpe of Maryland. In Consequence thereof, Governor Sharpe, who is by His Majesty appointed Commander of the combined Forces on this Expedition to the Ohio, agrees to the same, as follows.

In pursuance of their Advice, and Approbation of the Scheme, I propose, if possible, to assemble a Thousand men, the Independent Companies included; and, unless the Winter setts in too severely, very shortly I hope they will be able to carry the French Fort, on the River Monogehela, at least, before it can be reinforced from Canada in the Spring.

This indeed, and building a Fort (which we think necessary) opposite to it, on an Island in the Ohio, is all I can entertain very sanguine Hopes of being able to speculate with so small a Number of Men, as I am affraid, will be under my directions; unless we are reinforced from Home; as large detachments will be immediate necessary, and must be emploied in Garrisoning those Forts, (should we be successful in our Enterprize) and one that is already built, at a Place called Wills's Creek, on Potomack, by way of a Magazine for the Troops that shall be emploied in this Service.

And if we find there is the least Prospect of succeeding therein; I will make an Attempt, with our American Strength, on the Forts, which the French have built, near Lake Erie, up the River Buffaloe. And You will be pleased to assure His Majesty, that Nothing shall be wanting on my Part to perform it; though I hope, that the Strength of the Enemy in those Parts, and their superiour Knowledge of the Country proposed for the Scene of Action; as well as their numerous Allies among the Indian Nations, will be taken into Consideration; lest my utmost Endeavours, and Success, with an inferiour Force, should not answer His Majesty's Royal Expectations.