Sir:—

I've received your letter by express bearing date November the twentieth 1777. The contents of which shall, as far as is in my power, be complied with, I've a guard now of twenty eight, my orders to the Captains are for thirty, but between twenty and thirty appear, if your Excellency should think such a guard insufficient I shall be glad of further orders. (The Town Company is ordered to appear on an alarm, so that they are excused only on exigencies) without anything should happen more than we know of, perhaps the guard and Company before mentioned may be sufficient. A Dutchman from Maryland, has raised the price of salt, within a few days to fourteen dollars, which enrages the Country people in this place. There was a Deserter from the fourth Regiment sent here by Mr. George Little from Hertford County, which he wrote was by your Excellency's orders—(the letter was directed to Genl. Skinner or me)—therefore shall be glad to know what to do with him and any others that may come. Genl Skinner will shew your Excellency Mr. Little's letter. From Sir,