New Bern 23d March 1778.
Sir:
Mr. Purnell assistant Com General, to whom you was requested by the Board of War to send 12 wagons, you engaged to purchase for Continental use to Edenton is now here, he has been some
time waiting at Edenton, but hearing nothing from you thought to come this length to consult me on matters relative to the business of his department, and at his instance I am to request you to send with the utmost despatch not only the 12 wagons which you promised to endeavor to purchase, but also eight others making in the whole twenty if you can possibly procure them, as there is Mr. Purnell assures me, clothing sufficient to load that number. And you know the great demand there is for it at camp, I therefore need say nothing to recommend this business to your particular & immediate attention.You will be pleased to send an express on receipt of this to Mr. Purnell at Edenton acquainting him how far you have proceeded. What time he may expect the wagons there, and the number of them you will also be pleased to let me know what steps you have taken, and if you expend or engage any more money than you have been furnished with, let me have your account that proper provision may be made, as the Assembly will I suppose be sitting before I can expect to hear from you I shall be glad to receive your address here.