Halifax, Aug. 29th, 1777.
Dr Sir:—
I dispatched the letter for the Governor of Virginia, and also the other letters, immediately on the receipt of them. I expect my express from Virginia to-day, and if he brings any letters for you, or any material intelligence, I shall send him on directly to Newbern. We had the Virginia papers yesterday; but there is no news in them; neither have we had anything new from Travellers lately. Mr. Pinkney is dead: his death is not regretted by a single person who knew him in this part of the world. His conduct was so scandalous, that we only regret that he did not die before he had an opportunity of abusing this State in the gross manner he has done. I used every means in my power to stimulate him to his duty, and to enable him to perform it; but all to no purpose.
When I went to Williamsburg after my return from Newbern, I found he was so involved there, that his creditors would not let him depart without money or security, and to expedite the public business, I advanced him money and became his security to the amount of upwards of £400, for which I have no kind of security. His Types were brought to Halifax, and I think of detaining them until I am made secure. I should therefore be glad, (if there should be any application to your Excellency for administration on his estate), that it should not be granted until I could be informed of it.
Col. Long this moment informed me the express from Virg'a was arrived and that he would send him off to you immed.