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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from Richard Caswell to Allen Jones
Caswell, Richard, 1729-1789
May 19, 1779
Volume 14, Pages 86-87

GOV. R. CASWELL TO GENL. ALLEN JONES.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Kingston, 19th May, 1779.

Dr. Sir:

Your favor of the 17th I have just received as to the conduct of Genl. Knyphausen. I am inclined to believe that his real destination is for the Southern States, and that his late excursion to Suffolk was designed to draw our Troops that way so as to prevent our affording the necessary succours to the Southward. I have this day been favored with the sight of the Journals and

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Laws. I find that the Militia, not exceeding 2,000 men, may be by the Governor, with advice of the Council, ordered to the assistance of Virginia and South Carolina. I have summoned the Council to meet here the day after to-morrow. If a sufficient number of Members attend, I shall endeavour to obtain their opinion respecting sending the Militia out, and advise you accordingly. In the mean time, as you have ordered drafts to be made from your Brigade, I would recommend the numbers to be drawn as pr. list enclosed, and that the officers and men be directed to hold themselves in readiness to march at the shortest notice. Of course they will be preparing, and let me entreat you, dear Sir, to use your utmost influence to have them equipped in the best manner our circumstances will admit of.

Such further advice respecting the movements of the enemy, as you shall be pleased to forward to me by express, will be most thankfully received.

I am, with great respect and esteem, Sir,
Your mo. ob. Servt.,
R. CASWELL.