"I acquainted you likewise of the suspicions I had, of the small trust I could repose in the Pennsylvanians in assisting of me with anyone necessary, or any help in furthering the service that they did not think themselves compelled to do by the words of your letter to them.... My advanced post consisting of 1500 men, are now in possession of a strong post 9 miles on the other side of Laurell Hill, and about 40 from Fort Du Quesne, nor had the Enemy even suspected my attempting such a road till very lately, they having been all along securing the strong passes, and fords of the rivers upon Gen^l Braddock's route."[73] Forbes had been in Philadelphia while Bouquet was struggling away at Raystown with his thousand perplexities. Early in July he had proceeded to Carlisle where he remained stricken down "with a cursed flux" until the eleventh of August. Two days later he reached Shippensburg, where he was again prostrated and unable to advance until the middle of September. It is difficult to realize that the campaign had been directed so largely by this prostrate man whose "excruciating pains" often left him "as weak as a new-born infant" and who, when able to be about camp, retired "at eight at night, if able to sit up so late." All of this might well have been stated long ago but it is of particular significance now that Forbes's correspondence of the whole summer has been systematically reviewed. The very trials and perplexities, the crying need for his bravery and resolution, seemed in a measure to keep him alive. No one can study this campaign without yearning to know more of the impetuous soul which threw its last grain of strength into making it a triumphant success. The Indians called Forbes "The Head of Iron"--and no words can better describe the man. Giving all praise possible to Bouquet for his sturdy and active service throughout the summer, it is still plain that the dying Forbes was the magnetic influence that made others strong. Those were dark days at Raystown when at last the pale general arrived upon the ground; "had not the General come up," wrote an officer on the spot, "the Consequence wou'd have been dangerous."[74] Bouquet was an invaluable man but the "Head of Iron" in command was needed.