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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from William O'Neal to Thomas Burke
O'Neal, William
March 19, 1782
Volume 16, Page 244

TO GOV. BURKE FROM CAPT. WM. O’NEAL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

March 19th, 1782.

Dear Sir:

On the 16th day of Sept. last, General Butler dismissed me from under his immediate command with orders to return to Orange County and to endeavour, by every possible means, to apprehend Fanning, who was wounded at the battle at Lindley’s Mill and left behind.

While I was endeavouring to execute those orders and within the time of your Proclamation, Mr. John Pile and his son John surrendered themselves to me, intending to take the benefit of the Proclamation.

We at that time had several men wounded. I ordered him to take charge of the wounded, which he did, and proved very faithful. Also when I defeated Fanning at Soloman Coxe’s where we had several men wounded, and the Enemy also, I sent for him; he immediately came and assisted as far as in his power. His son having before that time, to-wit: in a skirmish with our people received so many wounds and was maimed in such a manner that he was not there, and I believe he was not fit for military duty. I, therefore, could not assign him any. They have both behaved very well ever since, and I doubt not they will remain good subjects should your Excellency think proper to seal their pardon.

I have the honor to be
Your Excellency’s
Most Obedient,
Humble Servant,
WM. O’NEAL.