Sir:
Inclosed is intelligence I have Just received. ’Tis probable the Expedition against Beaufort has already taken place, but the next Object will probably be Newbern. You are immediately to raise five hundred men, and Arm them with the Public Arms which are in Newbern, and dispose them in the best manner you Can to Cover that Town, and such other places as you may perceive to be the Enemy’s Object.
I am apprehensive that the Want of Artillery will prevent your effectually repulsing them, but you will restrict their mischief to as narrow bounds as you can. You will order all the public Stores removed out of Town and Assist the Inhabitants in removing as much of their property as you Can, consistently with your principal Object.
You are to be extremely careful that the Arms be restored into your own hands as Soon as this Service is over.