Game 3

Ardagor wrote:December 1740 was a good month. The Americas Republic Army of Maryland attacked the French forces in Philadelphia, 10-12,000 from the French army was killed or captured (roughly half the French force) and the city was liberated.

Congrats to the Americans. I should expect that loss will hit French honor.

Ardagor wrote:There was also a incident at New York. A French fleet was drilling, 64 SOL`s and 65 Cruisers, but no French ships on patrol. 3 American Frgates aproached New York, and the entire French fleet had to cease drilling and hide in port. That made me laugh, probably the last time a big French fleet will train without some cover.

Seems a all round bad time for French Navy:

1) In G2 they have to give up important Naval bases to the English & give the Ottomans £500,000 for their attempted sneaky and underhand attack.

2) In G3 they have to abandon drill and run and hide from 3 frigates.

3) While in scabble the French Navy is also having its drill disrupted by the Russians.

Long may it continue:D .

Well, in scramble I just had them drilling cause I didn't know what else to do with them!

A not so short history of the war in the Americas as reported the the Vossiche Zeiting, possibly with a slight prejudice against the frogs.

I joined the game as First Consul William Penn of the Americas Republic in July 1736 and and the action quickly started shortly after.

October 1736

East Texas
The Caddo Indians of East Texas have been asked quite openly by Colonel Michel Fènelon if they would be intereste din a pact of mutual assistance and would they be willing to "join us in a war against the Americas Republic if we will promise them that the American farmers who settled there will be expelled and no white man will be allowed to settle there again." He also showered them with gifts, and assured the Caddo Money and weapons shipments in case of an alliance.

November 1736

East Texas
The Caddo Indian elders`have informed Colonel Fènelon that they accept his terms, and now consider themselves in alliance With the King of France and look forward to the expulsion of the white settlers from their lands (although they have also asked that any settlers who refuse to leave be handed to them for sacrifice to appease the spirits).

December 1736

Quebec
Jean-Babtiste-Nicolas-Roch de Ramezay and the 1,600 strong Quebec French Militia have marched into Quebec and disbanded in order to begin to be raised up at an army camp here to form 2 Battalions of foot and a couple of artillery batteries. this is controversial since civic rule of Quebec lies With the Americas Republic, not France!

Lieutenant-General John Sullivan of the Republic watched this happen, and then went out on horseback to check if there are any other French forces nearby. He didn`t find any, but he did observe royal banners and the colours of the Kingdom of France raised upon prominent elevations and made it his personal business to og up there and take them down. With much huffing and puffing he went up and did just that.


East Texas
Sensing hostility in the air from the Caddo Indians, Mister Alan Bright nevertheless spoke to them: "We are very much interested in a peaceful relationship between Our two Peoples. I have bee given the authority to promise you enough grain to support you and Your livestock for the coming year if peace is kept between us. How much would you need to feed the people?"

A Warrior brave went up to Mister Bright and squeezed his arm as if testing it in some manner. He shouted something incomprehensible to some others, which Bright took to mean he was in some sort of trouble. He attempted to run away as fast as his feet could carry him, but was soon set upon by atlethic Warriors who dragged him back. Before night fell he had been sacrificed, and the following day Colonel Fènelon watched the revolting aspect of the warriors eat his remains. When offered to partake himself and quite naturally declining to do so, Fènelon was let alone, although he can`t help but wonder what kind of people he has now allied with...


January 1737

Quebec
The two Battalion strong St-George Regiment has disembarked of merchantmen at Quebec to reinforce the French military presence.

The Americans have laid down the foundations to a new citadel/fortress which they intend to build here.


Philadelphia
Before the National Assembly of the Americas Republic First Consul William Penn made the following speech:

"There is great cause for concern in East Texas, you are all aware that the French, quite openly, have offered an alliance to the Caddo Indians if they are willing to "join us us in a war against the Americas Republic." We sent the late Mister Alan Bright to the Caddo last month with a slim hope of stopping this war. The answer was crystal clear, as the Caddo slaugtered our ambassador and proceeded to eat him. It is my belief that the Caddo and their French allies will inflict a similar fate on any American they come across when they start this war of agression."

"I take this as a declaration of war freom the Caddo and the Republic will in due time dispatch a force under the command of General William Rogers to make sure that the Caddo do not eat any more good Americans. I assume this has the approval of the Assembly."

His words were met by enthusiastic applause.

The French, altough they are the instigartors of this war, hasve not actually declared war against us and I propose that we poostpone any overtly agressive acts against them until they choose to do so. They may have gone to an unprecedented level in their alliance with an group of cannibal savages but I sincerly hope that even the French have enough honour to declare war before they attack. They may even see sense and cease their agression against the Republic."

"The coming year will be tough, especially for the Teaxans who will unforunately in all probability experience great brutality and savagery from the foe. There is no way to avoid this, the Caddo Indians have made it abundantly clear what their intention is, we will be forced to kill them or drive them away from our lands. This war will be prosecuted to its logical conclusion and we will not stop until the Savages cease to be a threat to good Americans. Can we all agree on this?"

Shouts of Hear! Hear! gave way to more applause. Certainly the consensus in the National Assembly is that the First Consul is taking the only credible policy stance available to him.



Zurich
La Comte de Averyon, as well as the French ambassadors at the Courts of Hesse-Darmstadt and Hesse-Kassel, have enquired about how many mercenary battalions are presently available should France wish to hire some of them?

February 1737

Philadelphia
First Consul William Penn of the Americas Republic have once more spoken before the National Assembly in Philadelphia:

"We are at war with the Caddo and soon the fighting will start and blood will flow. It is my most sincere hope that the foe will suffer the most, but there is no way avoiding the fact that brave young Americans will suffer serious injury or death in the defence of the Republic. Their sacriface will never be forgotten and as of today the soldiers to badly maimed in service to continue as part of the armed forces will receive a yearly pension of five guineas."

"I have also decided to build a hospital for military personnel in Philadelphia to Ensure that Our injured soldiers get the best possible treatment."

"The widows of soldiers who fall on the battlefield, never to rise again will receive the same amount until they leave this world."

The announcement was received with applause, altough some deputies did so reluctantly because they where smarting over a deal which had been done between the administration and merchant friends of theirs which had turned a little bit sour.



Darmstadt
Landgraf Karl-Rudolf of Hesse-Darmstadt has made it clear that at the moment he has no new troops available to hire out to any parties as Mercenaries.


Kassel
Landgraf Heinrich Wittelzollern has offered to hire to France 12 Battalions of Hessian infantry for the sum of 120,000 Guineas followed by an annual hiring fee of 60,000 Guineas payable on the anniversery of the date of hire. He added that the troops would be handed to French command two months after the payments was received, so the first year would actually only be ten months in duration. It would also be a condition of hire that bthe mercenaries leave Hesse-Kassel territory within Three months of coming under French command.


Zurich
Minister of State Reimar von Rittenburg has announced that while the Swiss Cantons has no infantry battalions for hire as Mercenaries there is a regiment of six dragoon squadrons he would consider hiring or selling, if an appropriately good bid was received.



March 1737

Paris & Versailles
Ambassador Henri LeFortier have been called in by King Louis if he can confirm that the Americas Republic declared war on the Caddo Indians last month? He also asked if his country is aware of the fact that the Caddo Indians is allied to France?

LeFortier did confirm that war on the Caddo had been declared, but with regard to France`s alliance with the Caddo he imagine the First Consul was not aware of this when the decision was made, although he cannot be certain on this point.


Philadelphia
First consul of the Americas Republic William Penn has spoken before the National Assembly in Philadelphia:

"There has been a bit of concern that the administration have been unfair in its dealings with the merchant community. I have investigated the issue and have reached this conclusion. The administration was ordered to pay the merchants in question a bonus if they completed a task in a certain amount of time, which they did to our complete satisfaction. However, someone in the administration decided to withold the bonus based on an insignificant technicality. This is clearly not the air of cooperation and honourable conduct we need in the dangerous time ahead of us."

"I am deeply sorry for the action of the administration and I have ordered the treasury to pay up the agreed bonus immediately and indeed pay the same amount from my personal wealth as a compensation to the people involved in this operation. I sincerly hope that this is the end of this unfortunate incident."


Zurich
In a change from last month`s statement Rittenburg has revealed that the Cantons now have in their posession eight Swiss battalions available for hire as mercenaries since they have now ended service with their current employer.

April 1737

Philadelphia
The French ambassador to the Americas Republic, Francois, Chevalier de Crequi has handed over the following declaration to the First Consul of the Republic, William Penn. The missive have since been widely published in papers and so is now common knowledge.

As the government of the Americas Republic declared war on our ally the Caddo Indians two months ago, France is forced to help our ally and therefore declare hereby war on the Americas Republic. Also the bad treatment of the French-speaking population in Canada and that the Americas Republic still doesn`t allow our merchants to trade with them have contributed to our decision.

So this means that from May upwards French naval and land forces will be going on the offensive in America

Louis XV

Roi de France et de Navarre



Chickasaw Lands
West of the Mississippi river and south-west of Cahokia mounted scouts from the 1st Dragoon Regiment of the Americas Republic`s army made contact with a warband of 400 Caddo braves heading in the opposite direction.

General Rogers ordered forward the 1st and 2nd Rangers supported by the 2nd and 3rd Dragoons. Feeling that they where not needed and indeed may get in the way, he left his artillery behind. His rangers formed a skirmish line and advanced on a place known locally as Cedar Rapids, flanked by the dragoons on either wing. It lies within Chickasaw lands and this became significant because nearly 100 Chickasaw braves attached themselves to Rogers` command voluntarily serving as scouts.

They advanced across rolling grasslands, the folds in the ground providing of use in hiding their numbers until they were almost on top of the Caddo (the Chickasaw know the land well and helped the Americans approach in this way).

Being confronted by four battalions of green coated rangers in extended order the 400 tatoo-covered Caddo, despite their disadvantage in numbers, charged forward yelling! The rangers used independant fire to shoot many of them Down, and the slaughter wass so great that not a single Caddo warrior reached their lines. No prisoners was taken as near the end of the action the dragoons rode forward and finished off the survivors at the point of the sword, something in which the Chickasaw also lent a hand.


Quebec
Sullivan`s Americans are opening a new shipyard at Quebec, which news soon reached the ears of the French in the settlement.

Jean-Babtiste-Nicolas-Roch de Ramezay With a group of several French officers and an escort of a dozen Quebecois musketeers have observed taking daily excercise on the Plains of Abraham near to a church station. Sullivan`s American Field army of 19 Battalions of foot, seven squadrons of horse and six batteries of artillery. Sullivan and his men returned to Quebec each evening and set out again on the morrow.

It should also be mentioned another incident in Quebec not reported in the paper. A French fleet arrived landing an army bringing the total French forces in the town up to an estimated 204 ship of the line, 97 cruisers, 64 transports, 109 Battalions of infantry, 94 squadrons of horse and 66 batteries of artillery.


East Texas
The Caddo Indias have angrily claimed that the French have broken the alliance With them by not providing the promised weapons or money.


Zurich
Fencing back, verbally at least, le comte de Averyon has asked Reimar von Rittenburg to name his price to employ the eight Swiss battalions he has available for hire?


Public statement of his gracious Majesty King James III of England & Ireland, VIII of Scotland & I of Poland (only the part of the statement concerning the war in the Americas).

I am deeply distressed to learn that the America`s Republic and the Kingdom of France are now at war, due to King Louis support for his allies, the Caddo Indians in their war with the Republic. I urge both sides to think again before matters get out of hand, as I am convinced that this conlict will do neither side any good & quite likely drag on for years & years given the great divide of the Atlantic, & given that the bulk of the Triple Kingdoms revenues come from "Maritime Trade" I sahall personally take a very dim view if Mercantile trade suffers due to this dispute. Any attack upon maritime shipping flying royal colours and those of the Triple Kingdom will reult in an immediate & swift response, of that both parties can be certain. I hope that cooler heads will even now prevail & and that open war can be averted.

Why are the French so busy hiring German & Swiss Merc's dont they think the 70,000 French Infantry plus Indian Allies are enough to do the job?

Diufficult for me to say what the French was thinking but he do like to keep his army much larger than the American force.

Anyway back to history:


May 1737

Quebec
French grenadiers under the command of Duc de Biron moved Down from the citadel upon Cape Diamond and entered the lower portions of Quebec called Basse-Ville where the port is situated. They encountered a single Battalion of American foot on sentry duty which fell back after coming under musket fire. It moved out of the town and up the steep slopes to join the rest of Lieutenant-General Sullivan`s command which was excercising upon the Plains of Abraham beside a Dissenter`s Church and mission station.

Sullivan`s army then retreated in the direction of Lake Champlain.


Zurich
Reimar von Rittenburg has offered to hire eight Swiss Battalions to France in Return for a one-off release fee of 3,200,000 livres and an annual retainer of 960,000 livres.


Philadelphia
Speaking in the National Assembly of the Americas Republic, William Penn said:

"The day we truly hoped we would be spared has come to pass, France has declared war on us and have landed a large army at Quebec. It is assumed that they will attack our garrison there in May and will in the process cause enourmus damage and suffering  to the property and lives of the civilian population. We will of course attempt to retreatas our army is simply to small to face the French behemoth and fighting a major Field Battle inside a densely populated city is insanity anyway but I doubt the safety of American civilians is high on the list of French priorities. It pains me to leave American citizens at the mercy of the French invades but it is the only way I can see to avoid a tragedy."

"The French present their reasons fopr attacking us but it is all insubstantial as smoke, it would almost be funny if not the smoke from Quebec were not all to real. The first reason is that we have attacked their ally the Caddo, who incidentally appearantly have broken the alliance since they did not get any of the promised weapons. The Caddo have been used and cast aside when no longer useful, it should perhaps not surprise me the casual attitude Louis has to his allies. Not that the Caddo get any sympathy from us, they did agree to join the French attack on the Republic, killing and eating their way across Texas. We declared war on the CAddo because they accepted the French proposal and consumed our ambassador. And we would do the exact same thing again, we just cannot sit by when foreigners kill and eat Our Citizens and at the same time remain human."

The second reason France wabnts to attck us that we treat Our French speaking population badly. This is news to me as they are citizens like everyone else and their honourable representatives in the Assembly would be certain to be very vocal about it if it was a major issue. That France is deploying a mjor army With agressive intent into the city of Quebec will certainly be an interesting way of improving the life of the inhabitants."

And last but not least we have the claim rthat we refuse French trade in the Republic, this at least is absolutely true for a change and this policy will not change unless France stop attacking us, and building fortifications and deploying troops in American cities. Using the refusal to trade as a casus belli really is scraping the bottom of the barrel and I wonder who will be next on the French list of victims. Not once have we received any communications from the French regarding any of these "problems" so I can only assume that Louis wants a war very badly and any excuse will fly as far as he is concerned. I wonder if anyone else is swallowing these French "reasons" or possibly people are afraid they will be the next target of French aggression?"

"All this means that the Republic is in very serious trouble as we are a small nation and France is not and has the ability and willpower to deploy ba lot of Resources into Louis`dream of having a colony in America. We have decided to Call upon anyone willing to support us in this fight - it is truly David against Goliath, Democracy and freedom of speech against oppressive despotism and Power hungry aggression. Join the battle for Liberty and freedom, it is a good cause and the glory will never fade. Any troops sent to our aid will be supplied by us and quite possibly paid altough Finances are a bit strained with the looming war. Any troops will be placed in a foreign legioncarrying Republican flags and commanded by American vommanders. The same is true for any naval support of course. We will happily issue anyone willing to join the fight against France With Letters of Marque, anyone interested should contact the Americas Republic."

"These truly are days of decision for the Republic, Our future is decided now. And the question on everyone`s mind is can we prevail in this struggle? The answer is that it will be very difficult to stop the French juggernaut without substantial supportfrom willing nations and there will be no shortage of death and suffering in the coming months in any case. The only question I can ask you is this , is the Republic worth fighting for, worth dying for, is it worth your son`s life, can the price become to high? These questions will be asked far to many times for comfort in the months to come. I of course believe we should fight the barbarous enemy until victory is Ours, simply because defeat is to horrible to contemplate."

The Chamber was absolutely silent for a few moments as the First Consul sat Down.

A voice then heard from the benches of the Virginian tories. "Well I won`t have my daughter marry a French man, what about you?"

There was hearty if nervous laughter and then the chamber burst into a collective roar and a Cheer, hats and orders, papers were thrown into the air, some senators clapped, others wawed and the the shout went up. "iberty or Death!" and "Don?t tread on me!"

The First Consul clearly has the backing of the house...


East Texas
Colonel Michel Fènelonhas managed to get over a thousand musketsas well as substantial amount of coin to the Caddo Indians in promised aid. This has served to placate the Caddo who once more considerthemselves in alliance With France now that trust have been tentatively re-established.

Fènelon went as far as to apologise in the name of the King for the late shipment but pleaded that the weapons and Money weren`t available until now. He also promised more shall be coming in the future.

June 1737

New York
The French-flagged Escadre Bleue under Admiralo Duquesne arrived off New York and landed Comte de Saxe`s expeditionary foirce at Midland Beach outside the city (the city itself stands on a series of islets at the mouth of the North River).

Having disembarked Saxe`s army of 35 Battalions of foot, 15 squadrons of horse , and 20 batteries of Field guns as well as a siege trayne and stores, Duquesne began a naval blockade of New York`s seward approach. Three American merchantmen sailed into the harbour to get Clear, but other than nthat no ships are either leaving nor entering any more.

Duquesne has under sail 50 ships of the line, 35 cruisers and 27 transports.

Ashore Saxe`s men have made camp, but are aware of being watched by a few Indian scouts.

The French have observed that New York is not protected by any defence works.


Philadelphia
In the National Assembly of the Americas Republic the First Consul once again adressed the members.



July 1737

Quebec
American institutes and bases in Quebec have come under the Control of the New French authorities after an agreement was reached between local civic persons. This includes an engineering academy, barracks, granaries, naval yard and a large consignment of grain.


New York
The siege of New York began in earnest on the 15th of July, preparations having taken longer thanb th Comte de Saxe would have liked on account of the uncooperative attitude of American Citizens locally. By 24th July lines had been constructed with no loss of life. Using crack light infantry companies, and having commanderedsome boats for the purpose, the next few days were spent making amphibious assults and trying to secure a lodgment in the city proper. Dismounted American dragoons did their best to reåpel them but by 28th July had lost the perimeter of the outlying town and had fallen back into the centre.

In the meantime off New York the French Escadre Bleu of 50 ships of the line, 35 cruisers and 27 transports found bearing Down upon it from Long Island Sound the Americas Republic 1st Fleet of 40 ships of the line and 25 cruisers. Admiral Nimitz commanding, however realised he would have to come down the narrow part of the Sound in the teeth of the French line of battle, and so turned his fleet around sailed off without engaging from disadvantageous angle! This was seen by Admiral Leroy who conformed, but once back into the more open waters of the Sound to the north-east he sent Word to Nimitz suggesting they sail around Long Island and come in against the French Navy from the South. Nimitz bluntly refused, which shocked Leroy - and he said as much! The quarrel between admirals did not ease when Nimitz decided to sail toward Boston instead of New York having not engaged the enemy!

Back at New York, the Comte de Saxe called on the Americans to surrender New York to him to avoid bloodshed in the mostr built-upo areas. Captain Caleb Hawthorne agreed providing he was allowed to evacuate the Garrison by sea; de Saxe readily agreed to this.

The Garrison evacuated on the last day of July via Three fast liners, leaving New York in the hands of the French.


Philadelphia
Sailing up the Delaware River the French Escadre dÀmerique of 154 ships of the line, 62 cruisers and 37 transports filled the waterway but Contre-Admiral Henri Gabaret failed to find any suitable disembarkation point for the troops of the Duc de Biron`s army loaded on his transports. The banks are dominated by swampland, and shallows predominate which grounded a few shipsas they ventured close to the river`s banks while attepting to find a suitable landing spot. With some difficulty given the huge number of ships involved the fleet was turned to face seeward and the troops made landfall at New Castle eighteen miles downriver from Philadelphia.



"It would appear that I have been wrong about the French, they have reinforced their alliance with the Caddo Indians after all and provided them With modern weapons. I assume this means King Louis approves of the table manners of his New friends, perhaps the Caddo chiefs will be invited to a small dinner party at Versailles?"

"Our army managed to emerge from Quebec without serious incident, they will some day Return to liberate the fair city from enemy forces."

There was applause, but one gets the impression that the gentlemen are more nervous this month than they were last month. The News from both New York and Quebec is perhaps playing on their minds.


Trois-Rivieres
The leading townsmen of Trois-Rivieres has declared for France against the Americas Republic.

I have always been surprised that no one has come to the Republics aid...had hoped that when I took on the role of the Dutch I would be able to but alas the 21st C meant I couldn't stay

As Pope, I ripped France a new one over their defense of cannibals, but alas, real life intervened and I had to drop too.

Perhaps a short history of the Republic is in order:
After being defeated by the Jacobites in England (Around 1704/05?), King William of Orange with his fleet and the rump of his army arrived in the Colonies and established an emigree Kingdom. When he died without a successor to the throne , a Republic was proclaimed and John Smiths made First Consul, followed by Benedict Arnold and Hubert Derry.

Canada was at the time owned by England after a conflict with France and followed the rest of America when the Republic broke away from England.

Louisiana was later purchased from France.

Floride purchased from Spain in 1722.

August 1737

Boston


Philadelphia
The arrival of the French Armèe de Canada under Duc de Biron drove in a squadron of american dragoons and put paid to preparatory work being done on fortifications to protect Philadelphia.

De Biron has under arms 41 Battalions of foot, 52 squadrons of horse, and 44 artillery batteries.

On the Delaware River a naval blockade has been started of the American Capital by Contre-admiral Henri Gabaret`s huge fleet of 154 ships of the line, 62 cruisers, and 37 transports.


Boston
France`s Escadre Blue commanded by Admiral Duquesne - who has 50 ships of the line and 35 cruisers under his flag - has appeared off the Americas Republic`s fortified stronghold of Boston and placed it under naval blockade. Duquesne has judged, on the basis of the forest of masts pointing toward the sky from the harbour area, that the American fleet is anchored here.


Fort Frontenac
The small fur-trading post called Ft. Frontenac has fallen to France.


Statement by the King James R King of England, Scotland, Ireland & Poland-Lithuania, Captain-General of the Swiss Cantons, Duke of Dalarana, and Haute-Saone, Duke of Lancaster, KG, KT. (Only the part of the statement regarding the war)

I would also like to comment upon the growing conflict between the Kingdom of France and the Americas Republic, frankly I am apalled that both sides have lapsed into military action without seemingly any recourse to diplomatic negotiation, surely war should be the last argument of princes, and not something to be entered into lightly. I therefore plead With both sides to come to the negotiating table and work out their differences amicably without recourse to further bloodshed, not just for the parties concerned, but for the wider world, for I am sure that the Republic is not without allies in Europe? Before this conflict grows and engulf more countries, please let there be some semblance of reason. I will not comment upon the reasons behind the conflict, for I suspectthat like most People in europe they seem quite incomprehensibl? However I must make certain plans to protect the Crown`s assests & c. Therefore all ports belonging to the Crown will be closed to the warships of both the Americas Republic & the Kingdom of France for the duration of hostilities, merchant vessels belonging to both parties are exempt from this exclusion, especially in regard to humnitarian efforts on both sides. Any refugees from the fighting can seek temporary or permanent safety bwithin my realm and receive the same protection as my own subjects.



September 1737
Ft. Maurepas
France`s Armèe Texas de lÈst, marching along the coast, has arrived outside Fort Maurepas which General Barthèlemy de Beauharnis found to be well fortified and garrisoned by American troops. The latter fact was clearly deduced by the fact that two Battalions of the American 1st Regiment which had been exercising outside the walls, fell back into the fortress.

The French have made camp preparatory to starting a siege. They have under arms 17 Battalions of foot, 11 cavalry squadrons and ten artillery batteries.


Philadelphia
Mareshal Charles-Armand de Gontaut, Duc de Biron admitted to some uncertainty on how to proceed in besieging Philadelphia when there are no walls protecting it to breach. He concluded he has three options; a direct assault, a blockade to starve the defenders out, or a parlay to try and arrange an surrender. He decided on laying a blockade, with the cooperation of the French Navy, especially since he dosen`t see any probability of the American capital being relieved any day soon.

The naval blockade is also underway as well as that inland, but the 2nd and 3rd division of the fleet have departed, reducing the fleet by 109 ships of the line, 32 cruisers and 35 transports.

In the city 300 Prussians presented themselves for duty at the Natinal Assembly expressing the desire to help defend "Protestantism against the French".


Ft. Frontenac
Ten Huron Indian Warriors have trekked into Ft. Frontenac and offered to serve as scouts for the French army.

Sullivan`s army of the Americas Republic also marched into sight. Sullivan has 20 infantry battaklions, seven dragoon squadrons and six artillery batteries with him.

Observing that the fur-trading post is not fortified, despite its name, and With no signs of French troops being to hand, Lieutenant-General Sullivan led his men in and took prisoners the 10 Huron.They then saw that there are 20 bateaux laden with French troops on Lake Ontario.

General Jean-Babtiste-Nicolas-Roch de Ramezay who is in charge of the French forces on the lake, cancelled an order to disembark his troops since he wanted to do so in order to allow them some rest - and rest is the last thing they`ll now get if they now go ashore!



Open letter to the People of France
We did not want to remonstrte in Public, but as His Majesty Louis XV has not seen fit to return our letters or to receive our envoys we are left with little choice. We understand he has similarly refused to answer American calls for mediation.

Christ calls us to a path of peace, but the Holy See understands that in the course of nations conflicts arise which result in war. Indeed there can be just cause to take upo arms in the defense of Christian virtue.

But the Holy See is most deeply disturbed that France now makes its national cause the defence of cannibalism, an act of unspeakable barbarity and depravity. What has become of French honour that this is what it makes its cause? Are we to Wonder what is served at French tables?

The Caddo Indians killed and ATE the American ambassadoer to them. All civilized and Christian men should be shocked and apalled at this outrage. When France claimed the Caddo as ally, it should have been the just and Christian course to offer compensation to the Family of the American ambassador for failing to kieep their monstrous savages in check. Honourable men would place their sympathy With the wife and children of this murdered ambassador. Instead, France has embraced this monstrous act and attacked the Americans for their Natural revulsion at such inhumanity. A revulsion all men shouls share.

We look most dimly upon this, as it not only damages French honour, but that of the Holy Mother Church as some might believe we would support such. We cannot. We categorically condemn cannbalism, and find only shame in tho9se who would act to defend such monstrous conduct. The defence of such acts should never be undertaken by a Catholic.

We hope it is only that his Majesty has been poorly advised by men who have not fully contemplated this course, and that his majesty will seek better counsel. We hope too that his majesty`s fellow Catholic Monarchs will counsel him that FRrance`s honour is not served by war in defense of such unspeakable evil. It uis a stain upon French honour to pursue this course, and we pray that his majesty will repent of this course and do as honour should dictate. France should make just compensation for the barbaric conduct of their claimed ally, not war.

Benedict XIII, Pontifex Optimus Maximus, In session withy the Curia

October 1737

Fort Maurepas
General Valentinois has disembarked from the transports of the Escadre des Caraibes via rowing boats along With 20 horse squadrons and numerous crates after that fleetappeared off Maurepas. Valentinois`cavalry have joined the Armèe Texas de lÈst which has begun to besiege the fort.

The French fleet, which is now blockading Fort Maurepas, consists of 26 ship of the line, 29 cruisers and 12 transports

It was 17th October before the approach trenches were completed while under cannon fire from the artillery on the walls. Infantry Battles then took Place until the 22nd for possession of the covered way outworks. The American Garrison employed crack light infantry, actually Russians serving under the Republic`s flag, against which were flung Three Battalions of French light infantry including the Tobago Regiment. The Russians found much of the French fire disconcerting because most of the enemy rifles didn`t make a sound when discharged! Despite the novelty of this the attackers failed to take the covered way causing a lull a lull to ensue for the rest of the month With the defenders still in possession of all the defences.

Quebec
Over 1,500 Abenaki Indian Warriors armed with bows, traps and snares from the Malecite, Passamaquoddy, and Penobscot Peoples have entered Quebec as French allies. Their chiefs made no secret of the fact that they were gathering their men here as a percursor to going on a major expedition!


Fort St. Joseph
The Americas Republic`s army camp at Fort St. Joseph has been captured by French arms!


Fort Frontenac
Lieutenant-General Sullivan`s American troops have left Ft. Frontenac and were last seen marching along the North bank of the St. Lawrence River toward Quebec.

As they made progress they were surprised to see the 20 bateaux of the Flotille du Bas St. Laurent og past them on the river laden withy French troops and heading in the same direction!


New England
Micmac Indians have been observed roaming the countryside in New England, but to date have not clashed With the Americans or raided any farmsteads or villages.

Indian Affairs
Welcoming Ètienne de Siorac the choiefs of the bands of the Salish Indians have agreed to hear what he has to say to them in private.

Renè de Luynes had a very different reaction from the Cherokee, who made him leave with threats of violence - he had to literally run for his life as they chased him away!


Boston
Admiral Duquesne was surprised to observe the Americans 4th Fleet of 20 bomb ketches under Captain Charles Abbott emerge from Boston. His alert lookouts immediately informed their captains, and without needing new orders 15 Corvettes made for the ketches in order to capture them before they could shoot. AQbbott hoped this would bring these small cruisers into range of Boston`s artillery, but becausethe gunners are undergoing drill excercises the bastions remainded silent! With insufficient time to anchor and shoot with the ketch mortars, he therefore ordered the vessels to turn about and return to harbour. Unfortunately half of his 20 ketches were overhauled and captured by the French allowing only 10 to make it back safely.
While this action was underway four Dutch merchantmen put out to sea from the harbour and tried to get through the naval blockade, but they were chased Down French frigates and taken as prizes.


Philadelphia
The blockade of Philadelphia is continuing. Le Duc de Biron has observed the environs of the colony as best he can through an eyeglass but is of the opinion that he can`t be sure if there are many garrison troops present or not. While this uncertainty lingers he does not feel it right to risk launching a direct assault.


Choctaw Lands
Robert Calef has asked the Choctaw chiefs, "Would you be willing to join us in the war aginst the Caddo and their French allies?"

The chiefs looked at each other for a moment and then replied, "No!"


Versailles
Papal nuncio Marrissio Barberini was called in to meet the King of France`s chancellor, le Duc de Brissac.

Brissac jabbed a finger into the air and asked, "Tell me, is the current Pope still Catholic?"

Berberini`s eyes narrowed. "That is not a question, it is an insult to ask such a question! He is the vicar of Christ! He sits on the throne of St. Peter!"

Cleraly renjoying the legate`s shocked discomfort, Brissac added, "The reasion I ask is that His Most Christian Majesty is a little bit perplexed over why the Pope overtly supports a Protestant state in his last open letter? My king desperately hopes this was an error as the very thought of a heretic presiding over the Holy See would force His Most Christhian Majesty to fulfill his role as Defender of the Catholic Faith...

Berberini had turned red and was having difficulty controlling his temper. "You... you are an apostate and by speaking like this are an ex-communicant! I do not believe the King of France would speak like this, you are in hot waters and must repent, Your immortal soul is in peril!"

With that the nuncio left, furious With Brissac whose smile was beginning to falter...

November 1737

Quebec
The various Abenaki Indian warbands have left Quebec and are heading South. General Jean dÈxile had asked them to head West to harass Sullivan`s American troops coming from Fort Frontenac, but it would seem his Abenaki allies have different ideas.

Jesuits in Quebec have publicly made a statement which seems at odds With the Holy See of Rome, namely that in their opinion the fall of the Americas Republic must now be encouraged to allownormality to Return to Mainland Nort America, especially since it now seems native tribes are getting more involved and are likely to raid settlements.


Fort Maurepas
The French besiegers of Ft. Maurepas have been inconvenienced by a storm, but in spite of that the ships of the Escadre des Caraibes still managed to hold their station.

Musketeers of the 1st Melilla Regiment made valient attempts to secure the covered way off the defenders in a series of actions against the defending soldiers of the Americas Republic 1st Regiment and this time were sucessful in taking the outertworks.

To get over the wet ditch damming operations proceeded to enable it to be drained which was managed by 10th November. Then, in the absence of siege artillery General Barthèlemy de Beuharnais had to make do and employ field cannon in a battering role. a breach was made using these by the 25th, following which Beuharnais best infantry were used in an attempt to secure it, against which valiant Captain Richard Hunter personally led the Russians in American service, whom he was pleased to find was spoiling for a fight! Three attacks were launched, and on each occasion the assaulting troops were thrown back With mounting losses by the defenders!

The besiegers have been reinforced by the arrival of the Flotille de Transport No.1, of 5 lineships, 5 cruisers and 5 transports which disembarked via the coastline (With some difficulty) five horse squadrons, four siege batteries and five mortar batteries to reinforce Beuharnais`command.


Boston
A letter from Captain Nicholas Lancret, who operates several granaries in Boston, has had printed in the Boston Gazette a protest against the French government in the Americas, against the French fleet seizing grain shipments carried by neutral third-party merchantmen. He asserts that the grain is owned by English subjects doing business as the Greater West Indies Company, and he would thus request the immediate release o0f the four Dutch merchantmen with their cargos intact and on Board so that they may proceed to their original destination.

This seems to have had an immediate impact;  Admiral Duquesne, whose ships are blockading Boston, has released the four seized Dutch Merchant traders and paid their masters compensation for the inconvenience. Their cargo was almost intact, save for 5,000 tons of grain taken for fleet uses this month on Duquesne`s orders


Versailles
Papal Nuncio Marrissio Barberini has responded to the Freench Chancellor thusly:

"First, the Holy see chooses to believe that the Chancellor`s Words were misheard, as denying the authority of Rome and threatening the Holy See is at best an excommunication, at worst an interdiction for the entire nation. The chancellor should choose his words more carefully."

"Second, the identity of our adversary in war does not excuse a Catholic from acting like one. Starting a war in defence of cannibalism is a monstrous distortion of Catholic morality and as the Vicar of Christ enthroned in the Chair of Saint Peter, The Holy See has a pastoral duty to instuct all the faithful. This is why the bishop`s crozier, symbol of the office, is shaped like a Shepard`s Crook. It speaks to the duty of the Church to care for the Flock, and to bring in wayward sheep who stray from the Lamb of God."

"His Majesty and France have been so instructed. If His Majesty and France wish to persist in this defence of cannibalism then the weight of that moral error will continue to compound to the detritment of His Majesty`s soul, and indeed the souls of everyone in France. Does His Majesty wuish to damn all of France? Must we repeat that the act that the French choose to defend is the killing and EATING of the American ambassador to the Caddo Indians? Is
His Majesty truly surprised that all civilized men recoil from the defence of such? Is this a course His Majesty wishes to set for France?"

"Lastly, that the Americas Republic is Protestant would come as a surprise to our two American Cardinals, their eminences`the cardinals Fitzharris and Morrison. The Holy Roman Church has a strong and faithful presence in the Americas Republic. They have welcomed Our Jesuit missions and I have received no reports that the faithful of the Americas Republic suffer under its government. While of course we would prefer that the American government were fully Catholic, we are satisfied that they permit us to preach the true Gospel. It is morew than can be said of some nations. As in the parable of the mustard seed, the Word will find root in the heart that wishes to hesr it. His Majesty should consider the Words of Almighty God in Genesis 18. Abraham beseeched God that if ten righteous men could be found, he would spare the accursed city of Sodom. There are far more than  ten faithful Catholics in the American Republic. We ask again for his Majesty reject the unwise counsel he receives, and to leave off this war and negotiate With the American Republic. Rember the words of Our Saviour whom did say, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of god."

"A war in defence of cannibalism can never be just. His Majesty should take the words of Our Saviour to heart and make Peace."

December 1737

Versailles
The King of France`s Chancellor, le Duc de Brissac, has called in the Papal legate Marrissio BArberini to a Meeting, but the gentleman did not show up but instead sent a Message via a servant stating that he has a cold and so regrets he cannot attend.

Rome
Father Franz Retz, Superior-General of the society of Jesus was summoned to meet the Pope, but unlike the guests this was for a rather less happy Meeting. His holiness told him:

"The Jesuits of Quebec are failing in their duty of obedience to the Holy See and to the expressed pastoral statement of ourselves and the College of Cardinals. This creates a stain and scandal upon the Church in violation of Canon Law, and they are therefore excommunicate by my word, and recalled. Furthermore, because they speak their words in disobedience to ours and attempt to lead the faithful astray, this excommunication is Vitandi, and they are to be shunned by the faithful until they repent of their error and return to the bosom of the Holy Mother Church."

Father Retz went red but bowed and agreed to see rhat the Pope`s will was done.



Iroquis Lands
Simon Villemur, the newly arrived French emissary to the Iroquis, has gone missing overnight. Great Chief Kirok Chakotay oif the Honinonhsioni and then the other Iroquis are perplexed; the man went to his tent but the next day he was nowhere to be found, and he is most certainly not now in his tent.


New England
French soldiers have seen Micmac Indians raiding New England settlements, burning down several hovels, a Church, and killing twenty Americans.

Reports from New England are confused, but it seems that numerous other Indian raiding parties from other tribes have also been involved in nattacks on sttlements. In total nearly one hundred civilians are believed to have been killed, and five trade caravans have been ransacked.


Philadelphia
Men of Philadelphia`s town watch have posted themselves Close to the edge of city, including in houses along the perimeter, while for a time three streets of the city was cleared of civilians, martial Law was imposed over the area, and for a few hours small arms fire was heard. The civilians were then allowed back into their homes and martial law lifted. Quite what it all meant is anyone`s guess!

Within Philadelphia before the NAtional Assembly the First Consul William Penn has delivered this Speech:

"You are all awre that there is supposed to be an election by June 1738 at the latest, this will probably prove to be impractical due to the activities of the French army and navy. They may cease their activities in the next six months but I find this unlikely. The election will therefore have to be postponed until the French leave and Peace have been restored in the Republic."

"I notice that Jesuits in Quebec has publicly stated that the fall of the Americas epublic must be encouraged to allow normality to return to mainland Nort America since it now seems native tribes are getting more involved and are likely to raid settlements. Now, there is one Indian tribe that has inflicted death on Americans and that is the Caddo, fortunately their only raid was stopped by the Army of the Americas Republic before they could inflict any damage. Also the Abenaki Indians are obviously planning something, the French seems to have paid them to attack the Americas Republic Army but the Indians appear to prefer softer targets. So in effect France are paying Indiansd to fight but have little or no Control over what their New allies actually do. The Quebec Jesuits could encourage the French to leave the AGmnericas Republic, this would allow the Republican army to take care of any warlike Indian tribes and allow Peace to Return to America again. A much better solution I am sure you agree."

His Speech was loudly cheered and applauded



Ft. Maurepas
400 Caddo Indian armed with firearms have arrived outside Fort Maurepas to aid the French besiegers.

General Barthèlemy made a second attempt to secure the breach of the main wall, throwing forward the infantry of the 1st Melilla Regiment. They were opposed by Hunter`s Russian light infantry who began the fight in extremely high spirits. For two days the French fought to secure possession, but were beaten back. After a day`s lull the Regument`s officers pleaded With Beuharnais for another chance to have the honour of taking the breach, and a series of renewed attempts began after he consented. This time, to the surprise of just about everyone, they managed it, capturing the breach!

On 7th December the Amarican garrison, having been granted full honours of war, marched out. It has been agreed that they will retire eastwards into Floride, which is also a part of the Americas Republic, and made for Fort San Carlos just over the provincial border. The French were able to see that the garrison column numbers six battalions of foot , 18 squadrons of dragoons, and has left With a large baggage trayne Attached

Three American frigates also set sail and left, on condition that they make for the same destination as Hunter`s troops.

January 1738

New England
Indian raids against New England settlements have continued this month, With the reported deaths of thirty Americans.


Boston
The French fleet blockading Boston has been blown about by a storm which drove it well out to sea and forced it as far away as Bantry Bay, Ireland.
A fortnight later the Escadre dÀmerique 2nd Division of 65 ships of the line, 17 cruisers, and an auxillary vessel arrived of Boston so the naval blockade is back on!

Philadelphia
Very early in the morning, before dawn broke the American 6th Fleet of twenty fireships quietly weighed anchor and slipped out from harbour and headed out into the open waters of the Delaware River. Behind them Philadelphia glowed With night lights from lanterns hung on poles on the nstreets and along the waterfront. This allowed vigilant French sentries of the Escadre dÀmerique to observe their movements, and the alarm was quickly raised to warn of an impending fireship attack. Contre-Admiral Henri Gabaret, tired as he was, was roused and went on the poop-deck of his flagship. As alarm bells were ordered rung his own ship, With lanterns aboard lit, were seen to move down river to avoid the fireships.

Yawning and grinning simultaneously Gabaret turned to an officer and remarked, "I told you they`d try that sooner or later."

As the morning progressed the American 6th Fleet found itself in the River off Philadelphia, while the Escadre dÀmerique has made for open waters and ended up off the river mouth to avoid them in the narrows. This of course means that the navcal blockade is broken.

"In Philadelphia the following staement was issued from the Americas government and spread further afield now that the blockade has been breached:

"We are as you all know under constant assault by French forces and in particular our capital Philadelphia is under blockade, which means we are unable to gain access to our treasury allowing us to pay for the items required by our navy and arrmy to fight the enemy. Our situation is growing more desperate by the hour and I propose the following: We the Republic of America will issue bonds instead of money to pay for any work done, of course this carries more than a certain risk as these bonds are likely to be worthless in the not unlikely scenario of a French victory. Therefore we propose that any work should receive double the value in bonds which can be converted to real money if we should emerge victorious from this war. These options is all we have I am sorry to say, it is a gamble, if the French lose you win big but we all lose if the French win. The only question that remains is will you accept these bonds as payment for the work you perfoprm for the Republic?"

On the 13th of January, before dawn broke, with muffled shoes and hooves, Colonel van Darlan deployed his field army to face the northernmost sector of the blockade. When dawn broke the French light infantry picquets in the area had the shock of their lives, finding a column of American infantry bearing down on them on a four-battalion frontage in four lines with dragoons following. The picquets, of the LA Couronne Regiment, fell back in good order while shooting and raised the alarm. Four squadrons of French dragoons in the vincinity mounted up and rode off to a second line  of encampments to rouse the cuirassiers and establish battle formation. The camp under attack - for the French were spread out in a series of camps to Ensure the blockade could be maintained - was left with five infantry battalions to hand as well as as the two retitring Battalions of LA Couronne Regiment.

The Americans of the 2nd Republican Brigade, leading, briefly halted and spent Three shooting into the French line which has managed to form just in time and within seconds was replying in kind. It may be of interest to note that both sides maintained superb fire disipline and both employed a platoon fire systemin this action as well as bespoke muskets.The Americans had the added advantage of having four light nattalion pieces to hand, which spewed out grapeshot into the the French lines, doing great execution.

After a few minutes the Freench were showing signs of tiring and great holes had appeared in their ranks - the Americans with their Philadelphia Mk 37 pattern muskets were cklearly getting the best of it - so when the Americans ceased firing and with bayonets fixed under their Stars & Stripes Battle flags surged foreward, the French broke and fled.

Fortunately for France, Duc de Biron is a cautious fellow and had more troops in a second line of encampments further back. Here cuirassiers, dragoons and horse had formed to either side of a large body of foot before which artillery was unlimbered.

Darlan orderedhis attack to halt, and before the French guns could get a Clear shot off on account of their Routing troops to their front, told his victorious troops to retire back on Philadelphia, which place they enteredto the cheer of the civilians lining the streets. However, before they all got safely back, the French artillery did manage to get off a few rounds against the dragoons screening the Retirement and caused great loss to this body of men. Fortunately ambulances were on hand to ferry the wounded to the citywhere a Field hospital had been set up to treat them.

February 1738

Boston
High Admiral Duc de Fitzjames French naval division has been blown well of station by high winds while blockading Boston, and to avoid losing ships had to scud before the wind as far as the Azores.


New England
Indian raids on settlements in New England have continued unabated with the deaths of 30 Americans.




March 1738

Versailles
King Louis XV asked his chancellor, le Duc de Brissac. "Tell me, which Indian tribes are currently allied with the Americas Republic?"

De Brissac smiled. "I wish we knew!" And then added. "Sorry, Your Majesty, that was to flippant, I shall find out."

He didn`t Return the same day, but next morning came back to His Most Christian Majesty and gave this list of hostile pro-American tribes: Salish, Navaho, Chickasaw, Creek, Cherokee and the Iroqouis tribes of Oneida, Seneca, Onondaba, Cayuta and Mohawk.


Quebec
On the Plains of Abraham outside of Quebec a Dissenter`s Church along with a church mission have been burnt to the ground by a French-speaking mob.


Iroqouis Lands
Alexander Spotswood has told Great Chief Kirok Chakotay of the Honinonhsioni:

"The brave Iroquis Warriors will hopefully receive the muskets soon, any American civilisns deprsved enough to sctuslly transport supplies for the French invaders have obviously committed treason an as such are lawful targets, and should be subjest to severe punishment. What we do not wish to see is Iroquis warbands attacking random settlements, this could cause serious problems for all involved."


New England
This month 78 Americans are reported to have died in New England on account of Indian raids on farmsteads and small settlements inland.


Ft. Maurepas
The 400 Caddo Indians at Fort Maurepas have bid farwell to their French allies and set off for their homeland.



April 1738

Boston & New England
Inland in the New England countryside a further 10 colonists have been killed by Indian raiding parties.

Approaching Boston in good weather, a convoy of 20 American-flagged merchantmen slowly proceeded to port With the Wind on their port side. Between them and the port, strung out in a blockade formation, was the French Escadre Rouge of 30 ships of the line, 30 cruisers, and an auxillary. From this force the cruisers detached themselves to intercept the convoy, which as they approached was set alight and began to head for Boston while now ablaze! Given the open sea Spaces and their open formation the French vessels managed to easily avoid the fireships, all of which burned themselves Down to the waterline before making harbour.

The French who had moved away now sailed to take up positions to resume the naval blockade, but found 40 American cutters were swarming over the approches, darting between the still smoldering wrecks which by now had become stationary in the water. The French cruisers, which are all fast frigatas, darted Ahead to Clear of the cutters, but veered away on spotting the American 1st Fleet of 40 ships of the line and 25 cruisers coming out of the harbour. To meet this threat the French had time to form up a line of Battle made up of their own lineships. but rather than risk heading straight for them the american Commander Admiral Nimitz had his own line Ahead formation push out to sea and then stand off and threaten the French counterpart. There followed an exchange of fire from the opposing batteries of the men o`war which proved inconclusive as the two lines slowly sailed by each other on parallel courses. It was notable that the French fired on the upward roll, shooting at the rigging, while the Americans concentrated fire on the downward roll against the hull.

After this engagement the French fleet sailed away in the direction of New York. Nimitz - whose ships` sail and rigging had suffered damage - was unable or unwilling to overhaul them and so let them go


Philadelphia
First Consul Penn has given this Speech before the assmbly of the Americas Republic:

"The depravity of the French invaders never ceases to amaze me. Perhaps I should be prepared for anything now, but really! Burning down a church? Can we assume this is the way "religious freedom" is going to be implemented by the French in territory they capture? Also, every day we hear reports of French-supported Indian warbands attacking small American settlements. The French could have stopped these attacks if they really wanted. They have been public knowledge for some time and the huge French military machine should be able to bring a few hundred Indian braves into line, but they have done nothing. We can therefore assume that this has been done under a direct order from Louis; kill and burn as much as you can, spare not even the infant in the cradle."

"We have to do something about this of course, but the Army has its hands full With the French Army, so we have been forced to issue guns to the people. Every man able and willing to wield a gun to protect his home and family will receive one. Also, those Indians that remain loyal to the Republic will be armed to enable them to defend their lands and strike the French invaders."

This Speech received a warm applause of approval!


Ft. Maurepas
Four Battalions of rangers, 25 squadrons of dragoons and eight galloper batteries have arrived outside Fort Maurepas under the command of General Rogers. These units of the Republican Army of Louisiana found the repaired fortifications of the port to be in French hands and so made camp outside the walls.


Ft. St. Louis
Three thousand Creek Indians moved against the French fortifications of Fort St. Louis, but finding the gates closed and the walls manned by soldiers of Lignery`s Regiment they were unable to gain entry. Instead they exchanged Arrows for the bullets of the musketeers of the Garrison before retiring after suffering a couple of hundred casualties.


Western Mediterranean
Four French Merchant ships were reported missing in the Western Mediterranean, but these were set free and went on their way again shortly after being taken by American-flagged frigatas.

May 1738

Western Mediterranean
The Americas Republic`s 12th Fleet while sailing due West for the strait of Gibraltar came across the ships of Admiral Gui d`Desgouttes`French Escadre de Meditterranèe, numbering 69 ships of the line. Out of necessity the 43 lineships of the 12th Fleet and accompanying five cruisers didn`t trim sail but boxhauled about and moved back eastwards, widening the gap again.

Desgouttes didn`t pursue but maintained his ships in strict line of battle, content to see what looked like an attempt to leave the Mediterranean thwarted. That was probably just as well for the Americans because while half their fleet had sailed off in Perfect order, the rear division was thrown into absolute chaos With ships accidentally falling of line all over the olace following the abrupt bchange of direction into the wind!

New England
A Micmac raiding part has clashed with armed civilians who drove the Indians off from a village in New England. The Micmac appear to have been stunned by the level of opposition they encountered and retreated at speed.


Philadelphia
The American 5th Fleet under Admiral Quincy, made up of a lineship - the flagship Thunderer - and 30 liners, has left Philadelphia and sailed down the Delaware River.

France`s Armèe de Canada has resarted siege operations against Philadelphia from its encampment outside. By the 10th May approch trenches were in position, but while Duc de Biron observed that the American capital has no defence Works protecting it he still proceeded to order the creation of battery positions facing Philadelphia. Colonel Henri Orano oversaw the positioning of three siege batteries With five of mortars being established behind, and on the morning of 11th of May an officer was sent under parley by Marshal Biron calling on the town to surrender. The point was made that while it wass right to allow them time to consider this properly, resistance would end up in a bombardment of Philadelphia which was bound to cause immense suffering and loss of life and property. Being an honourable general, de Biron would prefer to avoid this?


Fort Maurepas
The Army of Louisiana has marched away from Fort Maurepas, heading off toward the East. French dragoons debouched from the fort and watched their movement for some miles before riding back to confirm this to General Barthèlemy de Beauharnais.

Three American frigates have appeared off Fort Maurepas.


Creek Indians
American traders have Distributed muskets to the Creek Indians.


June 1738

Montreal
The settlement of Montreal in Canada has declared for France

New England
Skirmishes between Micmac Indians armed With muskets and American civilians have continued throughout the month in New England, With dozens of casualties being suffered on both sides. French dragoons patrolling in the countryside observed several such clashes, but stood aside and watched rather than get involved.

Philadelphia
The Duc de Biron was aggravated that Philadelphia`s Commanders had not done the decent thing and given him an answer to his request that they surrender. Frustrated by this, he sent another officer to try and find an answer, will Philadelphia surrender, or not?

"A gentleman should not need to be asked twice!" de Biron observed

On the 11th of June, just before dawn and guided by local soldiers who have excercised in quiter days over this very terrain and so know it well, infantry and dragoons of the Republican Guard commanded by Colonel van Darla launched an Assault out of the city in great force. As the first rays of morning light were breaking over the scene the French piquets were already being driven in at the point of the bayonet. De Biron`s camp was soon roused, and he started to form his men into Battle formation some way back to prevent them overrun before they were ready. While admirable in order to avoid a chaotic fight and possible defeat in the resulting confusion this left Colonel Orano`s mortars and siege batteries unmasked. They were quikly taken by soldiers of the 1st Republican Guard who spiked the guns an then retreated with the rest of the American forces into the city.

By the time the French Field army had deployed the battle - or large scale sallie - was already over. De Biron belkieves 16 Battalions of foot and four squadrons of dragoons took part in it.

The Republic`s 1st Fleet has made it to Philadelphia unopposed via the Delaware River, and numbers 40 ships of the line and 25 cruisers.

July 1738

New England
Clashes between Indians and American farmers have resulted in the Heavy American losses of over a hundred men this month, as well as a couple of hundred woman and children, With the Indians changing tactics and ambushing individuals, raiding farmsteads at night, avoiding stand-up fights, and when possible attacking the weak. By contrast Indian losses have been relatively low, but this really has been the worst month yet for the New Englanders.


Philadelphia
Large consignments of grain have been given away by the government of the Americas Republicto the families of the men in the armed forces and militias. As the First Consul put it: "No-one will starve because the men are away figthing the invader."

The remaining farmers are less enarmoured with this decision, complaining that it will make their own harvest produce more difficult to sell and so end up impoverishing them greatly.

An officer of the Republican Guard came out from the city in the capacity of envoy to the Duc de Biron and explained to him the following: "We are sorry for the delay in responding to your offer of surrender, but I suppose our actions answer any questions you have on the matter quite categorically. Philadelphia will not surrender, it is the Republican capital and as such must be defended. I must say that you are a fine officer, a gentleman, a man of honour and integrity. It is a pity your king does not share your qualities."

Ft. Maurepas
A couple of thousand Creek Indians armed With muskets have briefly taken pot shots at the men of the French Dominique Maurepas Regiment while they drilled outside of Ft. Maurepas, and so caused them to retire into the fort. This brought to an abrupt end to the garrison`s training.

East Texas
Fifty American settlers in Caddo tribal lands have been killed in Indian raids in East Texas.

keep it up I rememebr this when I was in G3 as Russia, i sent large amounts of money recruits to the Americas and was considering declaring war on France but left the game to RL issues....

Thank you for that, the Republic is certainly grateful for the aid.


August 1738

New England
Clashes between armed American colonists and Micmac Indians have been continuing. This time the Micmac were consistantly beaten off, and by the end of the third week of August their attacks had all but ceased.


Philadelphia
The French Escadre Rouge of 65 ships of the line, 30 cruisers and an auxillary is now on tghe Delaware River and has placed Philadelphia under naval blockade.

On land marksmen of the Philadelphia Light Brigade have been sniping from the outskirts of the city at the French sentries of the Armèe de Canada and ended up exchaning shots With soldiers of the Troupes de la Marine.

Despite the possibly perilous nature of making such an Investment at a time like this, the sale of civic Offices in the Americas Republic has gone Ahead this month and proved sucessful. It seems that many gentlemen of the Republic  considered it their patriotic duty to buy an Office to help their country in this hour of need.


Iroqouis Land
An American caravan carrying thousands of muskets for the Iroquis Indians has gone missing while en route from New England.

Miami Lands
Indian braves have discomforted the two foot battalions of the Brigade de Lignery, ambushing them as they marched through forests in the territory o9f the Miami Indians. It wasn`t a major clash, but a short and sharp attack with Arrows and thrown Spears after which the Indians melted away as Colonel Lignery had his troops fan out and make ready to engage them. The Colonel then called a halt to his men`s march soutward and wasn`t sure wheather the Indians who had attacked his troops were the very one he was intending to seek out and fight.


Ft. San Carlos
The site of Fort san Carlos has been captured without a fight by the French Army off the Americas Republic.

Ft. Maurepas
General Firmin de Richemont called his garrison at Fort Maurepas to arms on becoming aware that four bands of Creek Indians armed with muskets were approaching from inland. The Indians, upon seeing the walls lined with the soldiers of the Dominique Maurepas Regiment, did not launch Assault but after milling aboiut for a few days outside walked away.

East Texas
Over one hundred American settlers in East Texas have been slaugtered by Caddo Indian war parties.

September 1738

New York
East of New York an American Field army under Lieutenant-General John Sullivan has turned up and deployed as if intending to give battle. The French defenders remainded within their fortifications to start with, but Sullivan?s arrival put and end to the drill of the Three Battalions of the 1st Melilla Regiment (they had to rush into the works to avoid being caught in the open!)

Sullivan has under arms 48 infantry Battalions, seven dragoon squadrons and a dozen batteries. He hasn`t launched any kind of attack as yet but did send an officer forward to say that the French Garrison in New York will be offered these terms - to not participåate in the war anymore and be transported back to France - if his attack on New York is a success.

Within view of Sullivan`s troops the French Armèe Expèditonnaire under the Comte de SAxe debouched from New York and formed up on the north-west, taking up battle formation along the West bank of the Hudson River. This means that if Sullivan wishes to get further West he will have to either storm and and take fortified New York, or accept a crossing of the river is going to be contested by De Saxe.

The Armèe Expèditionnaire numbers 55 infantry Battalions, 21 squadrons of horse and 20 field batteries.


Philadelphia
France`s Escadre Rogue has left the Delaware River, lifting the naval blockade of Philadelphia, and sailed to New York. However a couple of weeks later a French naval presence returned to the Delaware in the shape of ten cruisers and five transports off which ten siege batteries were put ashore to reinforce the Armèe de Canada.


Miami
French troops of the Brigade de Lignery have captured an American called George Burrough whom it is believed incited the Creek Indian attacks againmst Ft. St. Louisseveral months ago. He denies it, but he would, wouldn`t he!


East Texas
Thirty more American settlers in East Texas have been killed in raids by Caddo Indians.


Fort San Carlos
The Ft. San Carlos site in Floride has been burnt to the ground by the French Army. This included a Jesuit Mission which act is hardly going to endear the French to the Papacy, altough the disapproval of Rome fro their war effort is already well known!

I never understood why France went on this course of action he never replied to any of my letters and I had to use my ambassador in the papers to get answers then it was only blunt and rude which I started readying cossacks and transports to raid France I had 30, 000 of them ready to go and some possible volunteers from Poland to join them. But alas real life intervened.