Dr. General:
I've been at Halifax to see Col. Ashe respecting marching the troops from this County down to this place, I did not see the Col. but Major Hogg who is left to officiate in his room, advises me not to carry them to Halifax at any rate as the small pox is prevalent there, & the men to be carried immediately to Hillsborough he thinks it advisable to keep them at Franklin Court House and to receive advice from you when they shall be ordered to march to join the lower Counties Troops as they pass up to Hillsborough. The number of delinquents thats in this County added to those
troops already raised by act of Assembly, I believe will make a compleat company, I shall be glad you send me a continental officer to take charge of the men. Perhaps it may be necessary to keep a guard over some of delinquents until they be carried to Head-Quarters. The lower Counties not having their men as yet raised. I've appointed the first day of May next for the rendezvous of the men in this County at Franklin Court House at which time if you concur with me in sentiment shall be glad you'd send me an officer. We have a plenty of provisions for the troops. As this is Major Hogg's advice I submit the matter to your consideration. Shall be glad you'd write me respecting the subject as soon as possible. I've no news but remain with esteem yours most sincerely,