From Farm House to the White House - 912 Freedom Library

Farm House to the White House, by William M. Thayer 77
reached Venango, seventy miles distant, on the fourth day of December. Venango was situated at the mouth of
French Creek, on the Ohio.
Seeing the French colors flying from the house of Mr. John Frazier, an English subject, whom they had driven
from his house, Washington repaired thither at once, to inquire where the commander of the French forces
resided. He found three officers there, one of whom, Captain Joncaire, of whom Monacatoocha had spoken,
said:
"I command the French now."
Washington had made known his business, whereupon Captain Joncaire referred him to an officer in another
fort farther on.
"But you will stop and dine with us?" said the captain in a very cordial manner. "We shall feel honored by
your company."
Washington accepted the invitation, which turned to his advantage beyond his expectations; for the French
officers imbibed so much wine that they became talkative, as well as communicative, and imparted
information which they would have withholden when sober.
"The French design to take possession of the Ohio." said one of the tipsy officers, "and they will do it in spite
of all opposition. We know that the English can raise two men to our one, but they are so mortal slow that we
can accomplish our object while they are getting ready. The French have an undoubted right to this river, and
they will maintain it."
Washington appreciated his opportunity to gain information, and he plied his inquiries for that purpose. He
learned that the French had about fifteen hundred men between that place and Lake Ontario, but that all
except six hundred of them were recalled after the death of General Pierre Paul. He learned, also, the number
of forts the French had erected, and where situated, together with the number of men required to garrison
each. Hence, the information acquired was worth much more than his dinner.
X.
FRENCH MISSION--(CONTINUED.)
Monsieur La Force and three other soldiers accompanied Washington to see the commander at the next fort.
The French officers resorted to various stratagems to prevent Tanacharisson, Jeskakake, White Thunder, and
the Hunter going with Washington. The latter understood very well that their object was to have an
opportunity to win them over to the French. But Washington insisted upon their going with him, and rebuked
Captain Joncaire for his meddlesome disposition.
They were four days on their way to visit the commander, being obliged to wade through miry swamps much
of the way. They reached the fort on the eleventh day of December.
On the 12th, Washington waited upon the commander of the fort and made known his business, at the same
time presenting him with the letter of Governor Dinwiddie. Returning the letter, the officer said:
"The proper officer for you to see is Monsieur Reparti, whom the French government has commissioned to fill
the position made vacant by the death of General Pierre Paul. He arrived seven days ago, and is expected at
this fort every hour."