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[NOTE: All words or lines in Lord Cornwallis's subsequent letters, that are highlighted were originally written in cipher.]

[p303] (N O T E   A.)

Copy of Earl Cornwallis's dispatch, No. 8, to Lord George Germain, dated Guildford, 17th March, 1781.

My Lord,
I have the satisfaction to inform your lordship, that His Majesty's troops under my command obtained a signal victory, on the 15th instant, over the rebel army commanded by General Greene.

In pursuance of my intended plan, communicated to your lordship in my dispatch, No. 7, I had encamped, on the 13th instant, at the Quakers' meeting between the forks of Deep river. On the 14th I received information that General Butler, with a body of North-Carolina militia and the expected reinforcements from Virginia, said to consist of a Virginia state regiment, a corps of Virginia eighteen-months men, three thousand Virginia militia and recruits for the Maryland line, had joined General Greene, and that the whole army, which was [p304] reported to amount to nine or ten thousand men, was marching to attack the British troops. During the afternoon intelligence was brought, which was confirmed in the night, that he had advanced that day to Guildford, about twelve miles from our camp. Being now persuaded that he had resolved to hazard an engagement, after detaching Lieutenant-colonel Hamilton (a.) with our waggons and baggage, escorted by his own regiment, a detachment of one hundred infantry, and twenty cavalry, towards Bell's mill on Deep river, I marched with the rest of the corps at daybreak on the morning of the 15th, to meet the enemy, or attack them in their encampment. About four miles from Guildford our advanced guard, (b.) commanded by Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, fell in with a corps of the enemy, consisting of Lee's legion , some backmountainmen and Virginia militia, which he attacked with his usual good conduct and spirit, and defeated; and, continuing our march, we found the rebel army posted on rising grounds about a mile and a half from the court house. The prisoners taken by Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton having been several days with the advanced corps, could give me no account of the enemy's order or position, and the country people were extremely inaccurate in their description of the ground. Immediately between the head of the column and the enemy's line was a considerable plantation, one large field of which was on our left of the road, and two others, with a wood of about two hundred yards broad, between them, on our right of it; beyond these fields the wood continued for several miles to our right. The wood beyond the plantation in our front, in the skirt of which the enemy's first line was formed, was about a mile in depth, the road then leading into an extensive space of cleared ground about Guildford court house. The woods on our right and left were reported to be impracticable for cannon; but as that on our right appeared the most open, I resolved to attack the left wing of the enemy; and, whilst my disposition was [p305] making for that purpose, I ordered Lieutenant Macleod to bring forward the guns and cannonade their center. The attack was directed to be made in the following order:

On the right, (c.) the regiment of Bose and the 71st regiment, led by Major-general Leslie, and supported by the 1st battalion of guards; on the left, the 23d and 33d (d.) regiments, led by Lieutenant-colonel Webster, and supported by the grenadiers and 2d battalion of guards, commanded by Brigadier-general O'Hara; the yagers and light infantry of the guards remained in the wood on the left of the guns, and the cavalry in the road, ready to act as circumstances might require. Our preparations being made, the action began at about half an hour past one in the afternoon; Major-general Leslie, after being obliged, by the great extent of the enemy's line, to bring up the 1st battalion of guards to the right of the regiment of Bose, soon defeated every thing before him; Lieutenant-colonel Webster having joined the left of Major-general Leslie's division, was no less successful in his front; when, on finding that the left of the 33d was exposed to a heavy fire from the right wing of the enemy, he changed his front to the left, and, being supported by the yagers and light infantry of the guards, attacked and routed it; the grenadiers and 2d battalion of the guards moving forward to occupy the ground left vacant by the movement of Lieutenant-colonel Webster.

All the infantry being now in the line, Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton had directions to keep his cavalry compact, and not to charge without positive orders, except to protect any of the corps from the most evident danger of being defeated. The excessive thickness of the woods rendered our bayonets of little use, and enabled the broken enemy to make frequent stands, with an irregular fire, which occasioned some [p306] loss, and to several of the corps great delay, particularly on our right, where the 1st battalion of the guards and regiment of Bose were warmly engaged in front, flank, and rear, with some of the enemy that had been routed on the first attack, and with part of the extremity of their left wing, which, by the closeness of the woods, had been passed unbroken. The 71st regiment and grenadiers, and 2d battalion of the guards, not knowing what was passing on their right, and hearing the fire advance on their left, continued to move forward, the artillery keeping pace with them on the road, followed by the cavalry. The 2d battalion of guards first gained the clear ground near Guildford court house, and found a corps of continental infantry, much superior in number, formed in the open field on the left of the road. Glowing with impatience to signalize themselves, they instantly attacked and defeated them, taking two six-pounders; but, pursuing into the wood with too much ardour, were thrown into confusion by a heavy fire, and immediately charged and driven (e.) back into the field by Colonel Washington's dragoons, with the loss of the six-pounders they had taken. The enemy's cavalry was soon repulsed by a well-directed fire from two three-pounders just brought up by Lieutenant Macleod, and by the appearance of the grenadiers of the guards, and of the 71st regiment, which, having been impeded by some deep ravines, were now coming out of the wood on the right of the guards, opposite to the court house. By the spirited exertions of Brigadier-general O'Hara, though wounded, the 2d battalion of the guards was soon rallied, and, supported by the grenadiers, returned to the charge with the greatest alacrity. The 23d regiment arriving at that instant from our left, and Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton having advanced with part of the cavalry, the enemy were soon put to flight, and the two six-pounders once more fell into our hands; two ammunition waggons, and two other six pounders, being all the artillery they had in the field, [p307] were likewise taken. About this time the 33d regiment and light infantry of the guards, after overcoming many difficulties, completely routed the corps which was opposed to them, and put an end to the action in this (f.) quarter. The 23d and 71st regiments, with part of the cavalry, were ordered to pursue; the remainder of the cavalry was detached with Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton to our right, (g.) where a heavy fire still continued, and where his appearance and spirited attack contributed much to a speedy termination of the action. The militia, with which our right wing had been engaged, dispersed in the woods; the continentals went off by the Reedy fork, beyond which it was not in my power to follow them, as their cavalry had suffered but little. Our troops were excessively fatigued by an action which lasted an hour and a half, and our wounded, dispersed over an extensive space of country, required immediate attention. The care of our wounded, and the total want of provisions in an exhausted country, made it equally impossible for me to follow the blow the next day. The enemy did not stop until they got to the iron works on Troublesome creek, eighteen miles from the field of battle.

From our observation, and the best accounts we could procure, we did not doubt but the strength of the enemy exceeded seven thousand men; their militia composed their line, with parties advanced to the rails of the field in their front; the continentals were posted obliquely in the rear of their right wing. Their cannon fired on us whilst we were forming from the center of the line of militia, but were withdrawn to the continentals before the attack.

I have the honour to enclose to your lordship the list of our killed and wounded. Captain Schutz's wound is supposed to be mortal; but the surgeons assure me that none of the other officers are in danger, and [p308] that a great number of the men will soon recover. I cannot ascertain the loss of the enemy, but it must have been considerable; between two and three hundred dead were left upon the field; many of their wounded that were able to move, whilst we were employed in the care of our own, escaped and followed the routed enemy; and our cattle drivers and forage parties have reported to me, that the houses in a circle of six or eight miles round us are full of others: Those that remained we have taken the best care of in our power. We took few prisoners, owing to the excessive thickness of the wood facilitating their escape, and every man of our army being repeatedly wanted for action.

The conduct and actions of the officers and soldiers that compose this little army will do more justice to their merit than I can by words. Their persevering intrepidity in action, their invincible patience in the hardships and fatigues of a march of above six hundred miles, in which they have forded several large rivers and numberless creeks, many of which would be reckoned large rivers in any other country in the world, without tents or covering against the climate, and often without provisions, will sufficiently manifest their ardent zeal for the honour and interests of their Sovereign and their country.

I have been particularly indebted to Major-general Leslie for his gallantry and exertion in the action, as well as his assistance in every other part of the service. The zeal and spirit of Brigadier-general O'Hara merit my highest commendations; for after receiving two dangerous wounds he continued in the field whilst the action lasted; by his earnest attention on all other occasions, seconded by the officers and soldiers of his brigade: His Majesty's guards are no less distinguished by their order and discipline than by their spirit and valour. [p309] The Hessian regiment of Bose deserves my warmest praises for its discipline, alacrity, and courage, and does honour to Major Du Buy, who commands it, and who is an officer of superior merit. I am much obliged to Brigadier-general Howard, who served as volunteer, for his spirited example on all occasions. Lieutenant-colonel Webster conducted his brigade like an officer of experience and gallantry. Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton's good conduct and spirit in the management of his cavalry was conspicuous during the whole action; and Lieutenant Macleod, who commanded the artillery, proved himself upon this, as well as all former occasions, a most capable and deserving officer. The attention and exertions of my aid-de-camps, and of all the other public officers of the army, contributed very much to the success of the day.

I have constantly received the most zealous assistance from Governor Martin during my command in the southern district: Hoping that his presence would tend to incite the loyal subjects of this province to take an active part with us, he has chearfully submitted to the fatigues and dangers of our campaign: But his delicate constitution has suffered by his public spirit; for, by the advice of the physicians, he is now obliged to return to England for the recovery of his health.

This part of the country is so totally destitute of subsistence, that forage is not nearer than nine miles, and the soldiers have been two days without bread; I shall, therefore, leave about seventy (h.) of the worst of the wounded cases at the New-garden Quaker meeting house, with proper assistance, and move the remainder with the army to-morrow morning to Bell's mill. I hope our friends will heartily take an active part with us, to which I shall continue to encourage them; still approaching our shipping by easy marches, that we may procure the [p310] necessary supplies for farther operations, and lodge our sick and wounded where proper attention can be paid to them.

This dispatch will be delivered to your lordship by my aid-de-camp, Captain Brodrick, who is a very promising officer, and whom I beg leave to recommend to your lordship's countenance and favour.

I have the honour to be, &c.
CORNWALLIS.

(N O T E   B.)

Return of the killed, wounded, and missing, of the troops under the command of Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis, in the action at Guildford, March 15th, 1781.

Royal artillery. 1 lieutenant, 1 rank and file, killed; 4 rank and file wounded.

Brigade of guards. 1 lieutenant colonel, 8 serjeants, 28 rank and file, killed; 2 brigadier generals, 6 captains, 1 ensign, 1 staff officer, 2 serjeants, 2 drummers, 143 rank and file, wounded; 22 rank and file missing.

23d foot. 1 lieutenant, 12 rank and file, killed; 1 captain, 1 serjeant, 53 rank and file, wounded.

33d foot. 1 ensign, 1 serjeant, 9 rank and file, killed; 1 lieutenant colonel, 2 lieutenants, 3 ensigns, 1 staff officer, 1 serjeant, 55 rank and file, wounded.

[p311] 71st foot. 1 ensign, 1 serjeant, 11 rank and file, killed; 4 serjeants, 46 rank and file, wounded.

Regiment of Bose. 3 serjeants, 7 rank and file, killed; 2 captains, 2 lieutenants, 1 ensign, 6 serjeants, 3 drummers, 53 rank and file, wounded; 1 serjeant, 2 rank and file, missing.

Yagers. 4 rank and file killed; 3 rank and file wounded; 1 rank and file missing.

British legion. 3 rank and file killed; 1 lieutenant colonel, 1 serjeant, 12 rank and file, wounded.

Total. 1 lieutenant colonel, 2 lieutenants, 2 ensigns, 13 serjeants, 75 rank and file, killed; 2 brigadier generals, 2 lieutenant colonels, 9 captains, 4 lieutenants, 5 ensigns, 2 staff officers, 15 serjeants, 5 drummers, 369 rank and file, wounded; 1 serjeant, 25 rank and file, missing.

OFFICERS' NAMES KILLED and WOUNDED.

Royal artillery. Lieutenant O'Hara, killed.

Brigade of guards. Hon. Lieutenant-colonel Stewart, killed; Brigadier-generals O'Hara and Howard, and Captain Swanton, wounded; Captains Schutz, Maynard, and Goodricke, wounded, and since dead; Captains Lord Dunglass and Maitland, Ensign Stuart and Adjutant Colquhoun, wounded.

23d foot. Second-lieutenant Robinson, killed; Captain Peter, wounded.

33d foot. Ensign Talbot, killed. Lieutenant-colonel Webster, (since dead) Lieutenants Salvin, Wynyard, Ensigns Kelly, Gore, and Hughes, and Adjutant Fox, wounded.

71st foot. Ensign Grant, killed.

[p312] Regiment of Bose. Captains Wilmousky, (since dead) Eichendrobt, Lieutenants Schwener and Graise, Ensign de Trott, (since dead) wounded.

British legion. Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, wounded.

J. DESPARD,
Deputy adjutant general.

Return of ordnance, ammunition, and arms, taken at the battle of Guildford, March 15, 1781.

BRASS ORDNANCE.

Mounted on travelling carriages, with limbers and boxes complete, 4 six-pounders. Shot, round, fixed with powder, 160 six-pounders. Case, fixed with ditto, 50 six-pounders; 2 ammunition waggons, 1300 stands of arms distributed among the militia, and destroyed in the field.

J. MACLEOD,
Lieutenant, and commanding
officer of artillery.

(N O T E   C.)

By the Right Honourable Charles Earl Cornwallis, Lieutenant-general of His Majesty's forces, &c.

A PROCLAMATION.

Whereas, by the blessing of Almighty God, His Majesty's arms have been crowned with signal success, by the complete victory [p313] obtained over the rebel forces on the 15th instant, I have thought proper to issue this proclamation to call upon all loyal subjects to stand forth, and take an active part in restoring good order and government. And whereas it has been represented to me, that many persons in this province, who have taken a share in this unnatural rebellion, but having experienced the oppression and injustice of the rebel government, and having seen the errors into which they have been deluded by falsehoods and misrepresentations, are sincerely desirous of returning to their duty and allegiance, I do hereby notify and promise persons, (murderers excepted) that if they will surrender themselves, with their arms and ammunition, at head quarters, or to the officer commanding in the district contiguous to their respective places of residence, on or before the 20th day of April next, they shall be permitted to return to their homes, upon giving a military parole, and shall be protected in their persons and properties from all sort of violence from the British troops, and will be restored as soon as possible to all the privileges of legal and constitutional government.

Given under my hand at head quarters, this 18th day of March, A. D. 1781, and in the twenty-first year of His Majesty's reign.

CORNWALLIS.

(N O T E   D.)

Camp, at the iron works, ten miles from Guildford
court house, March 16, 1781.

Sir,
On the 10th, I wrote to his excellency General Washington, from the High-rock ford, on the Haw river, a copy of which I enclosed [p314] your excellency, that I had effected a junction with a continental regiment of eighteen-months men, and two considerable bodies of militia belonging to Virginia and North Carolina. After this junction, I took the resolution of attacking the enemy without loss of time, and made the necessary disposition accordingly, being persuaded, that if we were successful, it would prove ruinous to the enemy, and, if otherwise, it would only prove a partial evil to us.

The army marched from the High-rock ford on the 12th, and on the 14th arrived at Guildford. The enemy lay at the Quaker meeting house, on Deep river, eight miles from our camp. On the morning of the 15th, our reconnoitering party reported the enemy advancing on the great Salisbury road. The army was drawn up in (a.) three lines: The front line was composed of North-Carolina militia, under the command of Generals Butler and Eaton; the second line of Virginia militia, commanded by Generals Stephens and Lawson, forming two brigades; the third line, consisting of two brigades, one of Virginia, and one of Maryland continental troops, commanded by General Huger and Colonel Williams. Lieutenant-colonel Washington, with the dragoons (b.) of the 1st and 3d regiments, a detachment of light infantry, composed of continental troops, and a regiment of riflemen, under Colonel Lynch, formed a corps of observation for the security of our right flank. Lieutenant-colonel Lee, with his legion, a detachment of light infantry, and a corps of riflemen, under Colonel Campbell, formed a corps of observation for the security of our left flank.

The greater part of this country is a wilderness, with a few cleared fields interspersed here and there. The army was drawn up on a large hill of ground, surrounded by other hills, the greater part of which [p315] was covered with timber and thick underbrush. The front line was posted with two field pieces just on the edge of the woods, and the back of a fence, which ran parallel with the line, with an open field directly in their front. The second line was in the woods, about three hundred yards in the rear of the first; and the continental troops about four hundred yards in the rear of the second, with a double front, as the hill drew to a point where they were posted; and on the right and left were two old fields. In this position we waited the approach of the enemy, having previously sent off the baggage to this place, appoint to rendezvous at, in case of a defeat. Lieutenant-colonel Lee, with his legion, his infantry, and part of his riflemen, met the enemy on their advance, and had a severe skirmish with Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, in which the enemy suffered greatly. Captain Armstrong charged the British legion, and cut down near thirty of their dragoons; but as the enemy reinforced their party, Lieutenant-colonel Lee was obliged to retire, and take his position in the line.

The action commenced by a cannonade, which lasted about twenty minutes, when the enemy advanced in three columns; the Hessians on the right, the guards in the center, and Lieutenant-colonel Webster's brigade on the left. The whole moved through the old fields to attack the North-Carolina brigades, who waited the attack until the enemy got within one hundred and forty yards, when part of them began to fire, but a considerable part left the ground without firing at all. The general and field officers did all they could to induce the men to stand their ground; but neither the advantages of the position, nor any other consideration, could induce them to stay. General Stephens, and General Lawson, and the field officers of those brigades, were more successful in their exertions. The Virginia militia gave the enemy a warm reception, and kept up a heavy fire for a long [p316] time; but being beat back, the action became general almost every where. The corps of observation, under Washington and Lee, were warmly engaged, and did great execution. In a word, the engagement was long and severe, and the enemy only gained their point by superior discipline.

They having broken the 2d Maryland regiment, and turned our left flank, got into the rear of the Virginia brigade; and appearing to be gaining our right, which would have encircled the whole of the continental troops, I thought it most advisable to order a retreat. About this time Lieutenant-colonel Washington made a charge with the horse upon a part of the brigade of guards; and the first regiment of Marylanders, commanded by Colonel Gunby, and seconded by Lieutenant-colonel Howard, followed the horse with their bayonets; near the whole of the party fell a sacrifice. General Huger was the last that was engaged, and gave the enemy a check. We retreated in good order to the Reedy-fork river, and crossed at the ford, about three miles from the field of action, and then halted, and drew up the troops, until we collected most of the stragglers. We lost our artillery, and two ammunition waggons, the greater part of the horses being killed before the retreat began, and it being impossible to move the pieces but along the great road. After collecting our stragglers, we retired to this camp, ten miles distant from Guildford.

From the best information I can get, the enemy's loss is very great, not less in killed and wounded than six hundred men, besides some few prisoners that we brought off.

Inclosed I send your excellency a return of our killed, wounded, and missing. Most of the latter have gone home, as is but too customary [p317] with the militia after an action. I cannot learn that the enemy has got any considerable number of prisoners. Our men are all in good spirits, and in perfect readiness for another field day.

I only lament the loss of several valuable officers, who are killed and wounded in the action. Among the latter are General Stephens, shot through the thigh, and General Huger in the hand; and among the former is Major Anderson, one of the Maryland line.

The firmness of the officers and soldiers, during the whole campaign, has been most unparallelled. Amidst innumerable difficulties, they have discovered a degree of magnanimity and fortitude that will for ever add a lustre to their military reputation.

I have the honour to be,
With very great resp[e]ct and esteem,
Your excellency's most obedient,
And most humble servant,
NATHANIEL GREENE.

(N O T E   E.)

Return of the killed, wounded, and missing, of the continental troops, in the action of the 15th of March, 1781, near Guildford court house, in North Carolina.

Camp, Speedwell furnace, Guildford county,
North Carolina, March 17, 1781.

Brigade of Virginia regulars, commanded by Brigadier-general Huger. Killed, 1 captain, 2 subalterns, 3 serjeants, 23 rank and file. Wounded, 4 serjeants, 35 rank and file. Missing, 39 rank and file.

[p318] Brigade of Maryland regulars, commanded by Colonel Williams. Killed, 1 major, 1 subaltern, 2 serjeants, 11 rank and file. Wounded, 5 captains, 1 serjeant, 36 rank and file. Missing, 3 serjeants, 6 drums and fifes, 88 rank and file.

Of Delaware battalion, Captain Kirkwood's company. Killed, 7 rank and file. Wounded, 2 subalterns, 11 rank and file. Missing, 2 drums and fifes, 13 rank and file.

Detachments of 1st and 3d regiments of cavalry, commanded by Lieutenant-colonel Washington. Killed, 3 rank and file. Wounded, (prisoners of war) 2 captains, 2 subalterns, 4 rank and file. Missing, 3 rank and file.

Partizan legion, commanded by Lieutenant-colonel Lee. Killed, 3 rank and file. Wounded, (prisoners of war) 1 captain, 1 serjeant, 7 rank and file. Missing, 7 rank and file.

Total. 1 major, 9 captains, 7 subalterns, 14 serjeants, 8 drums and fifes, 290 rank and file.

Brigadier-general Huger slightly wounded in the hand.

I have received no return of the companies of artillery; but their loss, &c. is very inconsiderable.

This return is the most accurate that can be obtained at present; but it is expected many of the missing will yet rejoin their corps.

O. H. WILLIAMS,
Deputy adjutant general.

[p319] Return of militia killed, wounded, and missing, in the action at Guildford court house, in North Carolina, the 15th of March, 1781.

Camp, Speedwell furnace, North Carolina
March 17th, 1781.

First brigade, Virginia militia, commanded by Brigadier-general Stevens. Killed, 2 captains, 9 rank and file. Wounded, 1 captain, 4 subalterns, 30 rank and file. Missing, 1 major, 1 captain, 3 subalterns, 3 serjeants, 133 rank and file.

Second brigade, Virginia militia, commanded by Brigadier-general Lawson. Killed, 1 rank and file. Wounded 1 major, 2 subalterns, 13 rank and file. Missing, 1 subaltern, 3 serjeants, 83 rank and file.

Rifle regiments, commanded by Colonels Campbell and Lynch. Killed, 2 captains, 1 rank and file. Wounded, 1 captain, 1 subaltern, 1 serjeant, 13 rank and file. Missing, 1 captain, 7 subalterns, 8 serjeants, 78 rank and file.

Total. 8 captains, 18 subalterns, 15 serjeants, 361 rank and file.

Brigadier-general Stevens wounded through the thigh. Many of those missing are expected to return, or to be found at their homes.

O. H. WILLIAMS,
Deputy adjutant general.

Return of the North-Carolina militia killed, wounded, and missing, in the action at Guildford court house, in North Carolina, the 15th of March, 1781.

Two brigades, commanded by Brigadier-generals Butler and Eaton. Killed, 6 rank and file. Wounded, 1 captain, 1 subaltern, 3 rank and file. Missing, 2 captains, 9 subalterns, 552 rank and file.

Total. 3 captains, 10 subalterns, 561 rank and file.

[p320] The North-Carolina cavalry, commanded by the Marquis of Bretigney, lost one man killed, and one wounded.

I have received no return of one of the North-Carolina regiments. Those missing are supposed to have gone home. According to the reports of the general and field officers, very few were killed and taken, most of them having thrown away their arms, and abandoned the field early in the action.

O. H. WILLIAMS,
Deputy adjutant general.

Published by order of Congress,
CHARLES THOMPSON, Sec.

(N O T E   F.)

Philadelphia, April 18.

The following is an extract of a letter from General Green's head quarters, Colonel Ramsey's, Deep river, March 30, 1781.

I wrote to you the 23d instant from Buffaloe (a.) creek, since which we have been in pursuit of the enemy, with a determination to bring them to action again.

On the 27th, we arrived at Rigden's ford, twelve miles above this, and found the enemy then lay at Ramsey's mill, from which it was imagined they meant to wait an attack; our baggage was accordingly left under proper guard in our rear, and the army put in motion without [p321] loss of time; but we found the enemy had crossed some hours before our arrival, (b.) and with such precipitation, that they left their dead unburied on the ground. Our men had suffered for want of provisions (c.) in this exhausted part of the country, that many of them fainted on their march, and the difficulty of procuring any immediate supply prevented our farther pursuit. The enemy are on the route to Cross creek and Wilmington.

From undoubted information we learn, that the enemy's loss in the battle of Guildford amounted to six hundred and thirty-three, exclusive of officers, and most of their principal officers were either killed or wounded.

Nothing but blood and slaughter has prevailed among the Whigs and Tories, and their inveteracy against each other must, if it continues, depopulate this part of the country.

Since we re-crossed the Dan river, we have taken at different times upwards of one hundred and twenty British prisoners, and several officers.

The enemy left seventy of our wounded, who had fallen into their hands in the action of the 15th, behind them; except these, they have taken but few prisoners; not so many as we took of theirs, notwithstanding they kept the ground.

[p322] (N O T E   G.)

Copy of Earl Cornwallis's dispatch, No. 9, to Lord George Germain, dated Wilmington, April 18, 1781.

My Lord,
I marched from Guildford on the morning of the 18th of March, and next day arrived at Bell's (a.) mill, where I gave the troops two days rest, and procured a small supply of provisions. From thence I proceeded slowly towards Cross creek, attending to the convenience of subsistence, and the movement of our wounded. On my way I issued the enclosed proclamation, and took every other means in my power to reconcile enemies, and to encourage our friends to join us.

From all my information I intended to have halted at Cross creek, as a proper place to refresh and refit the troops; and I was much disappointed, on my arrival there, to find it totally impossible: Provisions were scarce, not four days forage within twenty miles, and to us the navigation of Cape-fear river to Wilmington (b.) impracticable; for the distance by water is upwards of one hundred miles, the breadth seldom above an hundred yards, the banks high, and the inhabitants on each side generally hostile. Under these circumstances, I was obliged to continue my march to this place, in the neighbourhood of which I arrived on the 7th instant.

I have been busy since my arrival in disposing of our sick and wounded, and in procuring the necessary supplies to put the troops in a proper state to take the field. I am in daily expectation of seeing [p323] the reinforcement from Europe, and of receiving the commander in chief's directions for the farther operations of the campaign.

Captain Schutz died a few days after the action, as we expected; but I am sorry to inform (c.) your lordship, that, notwithstanding the flattering appearances, and the assurances of the surgeons, Colonel Webster, (whose loss is severely felt by me and the whole army) Captain Maynard of the guards, and Captain Wilmousky and Ensign de Trott of the regiment of Bose, are since dead: The rest of the officers are recovering fast, and many of the wounded soldiers have already joined their regiments.

Major Craig, [(d.)] who took possession of this place in the latter end of January, has conducted himself with great zeal and capacity, having, with a very small force, not only secured the post from all insults, but made himself respectable in this part of the country by several successful excursions.

I shall not trouble your lordship on the subject of South Carolina, having directed Lord Rawdon, who commands on the frontiers, and Lieutenant-colonel Balfour, commandant of Charles town, to take every opportunity of communicating to your lordship, as well as the commander in chief, the state of affairs in that province. As they are both officers of capacity and great merit, I trust that their conduct will have given satisfaction.

I have the honour to be, &c.
CORNWALLIS.

[p324] Copy of Earl Cornwallis's dispatch, No. 10, to Lord George Germain, dated Wilmington, April 18, 1781.

My Lord,
As Governor Martin returns to England by this opportunity, I shall beg leave to refer your lordship to him for many particulars relative to this province: But I think it incumbent on me to be explicit to your lordship, as His Majesty's minister, on one or two capital points.

The principal reasons for undertaking the winter's campaign were, the difficulty of a defensive war in South Carolina, and the hopes that our friends in North Carolina, who were said to be very numerous, would make good their promises of assembling and taken an active part with us, in endeavouring to re-establish His Majesty's government. Our experience has shewn, that their numbers are not so great as had been represented, and that their friendship was only passive, for we have received little assistance from them since our arrival in the province; and although I gave the strongest and most public assurances, that after refitting and depositing our sick and wounded, I should return to the upper country, not above two hundred have been prevailed upon to follow us, either as provincials or militia.

This being the case, the immense extent of this country, cut with numberless rivers and creeks, and the total want of internal navigation, which renders it impossible for our army to remain long in the heart of the country, will make it very difficult to reduce this province to obedience by a direct attack upon it.

[p325] If, therefore, it should appear to be the interest of Great Britain, to maintain what she already possesses, and to push the war in the southern provinces, I take the liberty of giving it as my opinion, that a serious attempt upon Virginia would be the most solid plan, because successful operations might not only be attended with important consequences there, but would tend to the security of South Carolina, and ultimately to the submission of North Carolina. The great reinforcements sent by Virginia to General Greene whilst General Arnold was in the Chesapeak, are convincing proofs that small expeditions do not frighten that powerful province.

I have the honour to be, &c.
CORNWALLIS.

(N O T E   H.)

Copy of Earl Cornwallis's dispatch, No. 11, to Lord George Germain, dated Wilmington, April 23d, 1781.

My Lord,
I yesterday received an express (a.) by a small vessel from Charles town, informing me that a frigate was there, but not then able to get over the bar, with dispatches from Sir Henry Clinton, notifying to me, that Major-general Phillips had been dispatched into the Chesapeak with a considerable force, with instructions to co-operate with this army, and to put himself under my orders. This express likewise brought me the disagreeable accounts, that the upper posts of South Carolina were in the most imminent danger, from an alarming [p326] spirit of revolt among many of the people, and by a movement of General Greene's army. Although the expresses (b.) that I sent from Cross creek to inform Lord Rawdon of the necessity I was under of coming to this place, and to warn him of the possibility of such an attempt of the enemy, had all miscarried, yet his lordship was lucky enough to be apprized of General Greene's approach at least six days before he could possibly reach Camden; and I am therefore still induced to hope, from my opinion of his lordship's abilities, and the precautions taken by him and Lieutenant-colonel Balfour, that we shall not be so unfortunate as to lose any considerable corps.

The distance (c.) from hence to Camden, the want of forage and subsistence on the greatest part of the road, and the difficulty of passing the Pedee when opposed by an enemy, render it utterly impossible for me to give immediate assistance, and I apprehend a possibility of the utmost hazard to this little corps, without the chance of a benefit in the attempt; for if we are so unlucky as to suffer a severe blow in South Carolina, the spirit of revolt in that province would become very general, and the numerous rebels in this province be encouraged to be more than ever active and violent. This might enable General Greene to hem me in among the great rivers, and by cutting off our subsistence, render our arms useless; and to remain here for transports to carry us off, would be a work of time, would lose our cavalry, and be otherwise as ruinous and disgraceful to Britain as most events could be. I have, therefore, under so many embarrassing circumstances, (but looking upon Charles town as safe from any immediate attack from the rebels) resolved to take advantage of General Greene's having left the back part of Virginia open, and march immediately into that province, to attempt a junction with General Phillips.

[p327] I have more readily decided upon this measure, because if General Greene fails in the object of his march, his retreat will relieve South Carolina; and my force being very insufficient for offensive operations in this province, may be employed usefully in Virginia, in conjunction with the corps under the command of General Phillips.

I have the honour to be, &c.
CORNWALLIS.

(N O T E   I.)

Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, K. B. dated Wilmington, April 24, 1781.

Sir,
I have reflected very seriously on the subject of my attempt to march into Virginia, and have, in consequence, written a letter to Major-general Phillips, of which I have the honour to enclose a copy to your excellency. I have, likewise, directed Lieutenant-colonel Balfour to send transports and provisions to this post, in case I should find the junction with Major-general Phillips inexpedient or impracticable, and that I should have the mortification of seeing that there is no other method of conveying His Majesty's troops to South Carolina without the most evident danger of being lost.

I have the honour to be, &c.
CORNWALLIS.

[p328] (N O T E   K.)

Extract. -- From Lord Rawdon to Earl Cornwallis, dated May 24, 1781.

Lieutenant-colonel Balfour was so good as to meet me at Nelson's. He took this measure, that he might represent his circumstances to me. He stated, that the revolt was universal, and that from the little reason to apprehend this serious invasion, the old works of Charles town had been in part levelled, to make way for new ones, which were not yet constructed; that its garrison was inadequate to oppose any force of consequence; and that the defection of the town's people shewed itself in a thousand instances. I agreed with him in the conclusion to be drawn from thence, that any misfortune happening to my corps might entail the loss of the province.

(N O T E   L.)

Copy of Earl Cornwallis's letter to Major-general Phillips, dated Wilmington, April 24, 1781.

Dear Phillips,
My situation here is very distressing: Greene took the advantage of my being obliged to come to this place, and has marched to South Carolina. My expresses to Lord Rawdon, on my leaving Cross creek, warning him of the possibility of such a movement, have all failed; mountaineers and militia have poured into the back part of that province, and I much fear that Lord Rawdon's posts will be so distant from each other, and his troops so scattered, as to put him into the greatest [p329] danger of being beat in detail, and that the worst of consequences may happen to most of the troops out of Charles town. By a direct move towards Camden, I cannot get time enough to relieve Lord Rawdon; and, should he have fallen, my army would be exposed to the utmost danger from the great rivers I should have to pass, the exhausted state of the country, the numerous militia, the almost-universal spirit of revolt which prevails in South Carolina, and the strength of Greene's army, whose continentals alone are at least as numerous as I am; and I could be of no use on my arrival at Charles town, there being nothing to apprehend at present for that post; I shall, therefore, immediately march up the country by Duplin court house, pointing towards Hillsborough, in hopes to withdraw Greene; if that should not succeed, I should be much tempted to form a junction with you. The attempt is exceedingly hazardous, and many unforeseen difficulties may render it totally impracticable, so that you must not take any steps that may expose your army to the danger of being ruined: I shall march to the lowest ford of the Roanoke, which, I am informed, is about twenty miles above Taylor's ferry. Send every possible intelligence to me by the cypher I enclose, and make every movement in your power to facilitate our meeting (which must be somewhere near Petersburg) with safety to your own army: I mention the lowest ford, because in a hostile country ferries cannot be depended upon; but if I should decide on the measure of endeavouring to come to you, I shall try to surprise the boats at some of the ferries, from Halifax, upwards.

I am, &c.
CORNWALLIS.

[p330] (N O T E   M.)

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated Nahunta creek, May 5, 1781.

Dear Tarleton,
You must be sensible that, in the present instance, I put the greatest confidence in you. I trust to your discretion my honour and future happiness. I am convinced you will be on your guard against the sanguine opinions of friends and your own prejudices. Above all things, attend to dates, and distinguish between is and has been. You will read my letter. Send as many messages or notes as you can; but all conveyed in the same cautious language. I confide in the correctness of your report as to the practicability of passing, and the certainty of a speedy communication with Phillips: If it won't do, take care not to stay too long.

Yours very sincerely,
CORNWALLIS.

My letters to Phillips are in the new cypher; he has not the old one.

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated Nahunta creek, 5th May, 1781.

If Cob's mill can grind fifteen hundred weight in twenty-four hours, and if it appears by your information that General Phillips is certainly within reach of joining, you may go on to Halifax to secure [p331] a passage, reporting to me the state of things, to direct the movements of the infantry: Forward the enclosed by different hands.

Faithfully yours,
CORNWALLIS.

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated camp at Crowell's plantation, near Tarr river, 8th May, 1781.

Dear Tarleton,
I cannot venture to pass the Roanoke without some certain information of Phillips, or of the state of things in Virginia. You will read and forward the enclosed letter: Not having been able to mount the light company of the guards, I think they would only embarrass you. You may stay two or three days at Halifax, if you think it safe: If in that time you hear any certain or favourable news of Phillips, let me know it, and I will move forward immediately; if not, return by whatever route you please, and join me near Cob's or Vivaret's (a.) mill, fixing every possible channel of intelligence at any price.

I understand that General Butler is at Wake court house with a few militia. Our accounts of Lord Rawdon's success continue to be confirmed. (b.)

Faithfully yours,
CORNWALLIS.

I look northward, if possible.

[p332] (N O T E   N.)

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Major-general Phillips, dated camp on Tarr river, 8th May, 1781.

Dear Phillips,
I can learn no satisfactory accounts of you: Some say that you are embarked; others, that you have passed James river. I have intelligence, almost amounting to a (a.) certainty, that Lord Rawdon has beat Greene at Camden, and consequently South Carolina is safe: Still I wish to join you; but as many circumstances may happen which may prevent my staying long enough in this country to get sufficient information of you, you must take no steps with that view that may hazard the safety of your own army. Let me hear from you by every possible opportunity.

Yours sincerely,
CORNWALLIS.

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated Crowell's plantation, May 8, 1781, eight P. M.

Dear Tarleton,
I have just received yours of this date with much more satisfaction than that of yesterday. The light company of the guards (b.) shall proceed immediately; I will follow as fast as possible: You will of course secure the opposite bank when Sutherland arrives.

I am, very sincerely, yours,
CORNWALLIS.

[p333] (N O T E   O.)

Extract. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated Jones' plantation, May 15th, 1781, five P. M.

I am making all possible expedition, and hope to be at Nottoway on Friday evening. I would have you proceed to-morrow to the Nottoway, and remain near Simcoe's infantry. Arnold is ordered to march immediately to meet me on the Nottoway. Wayne's having joined La Fayette, makes me rather uneasy for Arnold until we join. If you should hear of any movement of the enemy in force to disturb Arnold's march, you will give him every assistance in your power.

(N O T E   P.)

Extract. -- From Sir Henry Clinton, K. B. to Lord George Germain, dated New York, May 18th, 1781.

My Lord,
I am happy in being able to congratulate your lordship on the very important success which the King's troops in Virginia have had on their late expedition to Petersburg, &c. (as described in Brigadier-general Arnold's letter) which must ultimately be productive of the very best consequences to His Majesty's service, as it is credibly reported that the greatest part of the tobacco collected there was French property, and almost their entire annual remittance.

[p334] Extract. -- From Brigadier-general Arnold to Sir Henry Clinton.

Petersburg, May 12, 1781.

I am extremely sorry to inform your excellency, that Major-general Phillips is reduced so low by a fever, which seized him on the 2d instant, that he is incapable of business, and the physicians are not without fears for his safety. In this situation, I think it my duty to transmit to your excellency, by express, a detail of the proceedings of the army under the orders of Major general Phillips, since they left Portsmouth, which his indisposition prevented him from doing as he intended.

On the 18th of April, the light infantry, part of the 76th and 80th regiments, the Queen's rangers, yagers, and American legion, embarked at Portsmouth, and fell down to Hampton road: on the 19th, proceeded up James river to Burwell's ferry; on the 20th, Lieutenant-colonel Abercrombie, with the light infantry, proceeded up the Chickahomany in boats; Lieutenant-colonel Simcoe, with a detachment, to York; Lieutenant-colonel Dundass, with another detachment, landed at the mouth of the Chickahomany; and Major-general Phillips and myself landed with part of the army at Williamsburg, where about five hundred militia were posted, who retired upon our approach. The militia at York crossed the river before the arrival of Lieutenant-colonel Simcoe, who made a few prisoners, spiked and destroyed some cannon, and next day returned to Williamsburgh.

On the 22d, the troops marched to Chickahomany. We were met on the road, five miles from the mouth of the river, by Lieutenant-colonel Dundass with his detachment: This evening the troops, cavalry, [p335] artillery, &c. were re-embarked. The next morning we were joined by Lieutenant-colonel Abercrombie with the light infantry, who had been ten or twelve miles up the Chickahomany, and destroyed several armed ships, the state ship yards, warehouses, &c. &c.

At ten o'clock the fleet weighed, and proceeded up the James river within four miles of Westover.

The 24th, weighed anchor at eleven o'clock, and run up to City points, where the troops, &c. were all landed at six o'clock in the evening.

The 25th, marched at ten o'clock for Petersburg, where we arrived about five o'clock P. M. We were opposed about one mile from town by a body of militia, under the orders of Brigadier-general Muhlenburg, supposed to be about one thousand men, who were soon obliged to retire over the bridge with the loss of near one hundred men killed and wounded, as we have since been informed; our loss only one man killed, and ten wounded. The enemy took up the bridge, which prevented our pursuing them.

26th, destroyed at Petersburg four thousand hogsheads of tobacco, one ship, and a number of small vessels on the stocks and in the river.

27th, Major-general Phillips, with the light infantry, part of the cavalry of the Queen's rangers, and part of the yagers, marched to Chesterfield court house, where they burnt a range of barracks for two thousand men, and three hundred barrels of flour, &c.

[p336] The same day I marched to Osborn's, with the 76th and 80th regiments, Queen's rangers, part of the yagers, and American legion, where we arrived about noon. Finding the enemy had very considerable force of ships four miles above Osborn's, drawn up in a line to oppose us, I sent a flag to the commodore, proposing to treat with him for the surrender of his fleet, which he refused, with this answer, "That he was determined to defend it to the last extremity." I immediately ordered down two six and two three-pounders, brass field pieces, to a bank of the river, nearly level with the water, and within one hundred yards of the Tempest, a twenty-gun state ship, which began immediately to fire upon us, as did the Renown, of twenty-six guns, the Jefferson, a state brigantine of fourteen guns, and several other armed ships and brigantines; about two or three hundred militia on the opposite shore at the same time kept up a heavy fire of musketry upon us: Notwithstanding which, the fire of the artillery, under the direction of Captain Fage and Lieutenant Rogers, took such place, that the ships were soon obliged to strike their colours, and the militia drove from the opposite shore. Want of boats, and the wind blowing hard, prevented our capturing many of the seamen, who took to their boats, and escaped on shore; but not without first scuttling and setting fire to some of their ships, which could not be saved.

Two ships, three brigantines, five sloops, and two schooners, loaded with tobacco, cordage, flour, &c. fell into our hands.

Four ships, five brigantines, and a number of small vessels, were sunk and burnt: On board the whole fleet (none of which escaped) were taken and destroyed about two thousand hogsheads of tobacco, &c. &c., and very fortunately we had not a man killed or wounded this day; but have reason to believe the enemy suffered considerably. [p337] About five o'clock we were joined by Major-general Phillips with the light infantry.

28th, the troops remained at Osborn's, waiting for boats from the fleet; part of them were employed in securing the prizes, and carrying them to Osborn's as a place of safety.

29th, the boats having arrived, the troops were put in motion. Major-general Phillips marched with the main body; at the same time I proceeded up the river with a detachment in boats, and met him between Cary's mills and Warwick.

30th, the troops marched to Manchester, and destroyed twelve hundred hogsheads of tobacco. The Marquis de la Fayette having arrived with his army at Richmond, opposite to Manchester, the day before, and being joined by the militia drove from Petersburg and Williamsburgh, they were spectators of the conflagration without attempting to molest us. The same evening we returned to Warwick, where we destroyed a magazine of five hundred barrels of flour, and Colonel Cary's fine mills were destroyed in burning the magazine of flour. We also burnt several warehouses, with one hundred and fifty hogsheads of tobacco, a large ship and a brigantine afloat, and three vessels on the stocks, a large range of public rope walks and storehouses, and some tan and bark houses full of hides and bark.

May 1st, marched to Osborn's, and dispatched our prizes and boats down the river; and in the evening marched to Bermuda hundreds, opposite City point.

[p338] May 2d, embarked the troops, &c. &c.

May 3d, fell down the river to Westover.

May 4th, proceeded down to Tappahannock.

5th and 6th, part of the fleet fell down to Hog island.

7th, Major-general Phillips having received a letter from Lord Cornwallis, orders were given for the fleet to return up the river again. We arrived at Brandon about five o'clock, and most of the troops, cavalry, &c. were landed this evening, though it blew a gale of wind.

May 8th, remained at Brandon. Major-general Phillips being very ill, and unable to travel on horseback, a postchaise was procured for him.

May 9th, the light infantry, and part of the Queen's rangers, in boats, were ordered, with the Formidable and Spitfire, to proceed to City point, and land there. The rest of the army were put in motion for Petersburg, where they arrived late in the night, having marched near thirty miles this day.

On our leaving Bermuda hundred, and going down the river, the Marquis de la Fayette with his army moved towards Williamsburgh, and, by forced marches, had crossed the Chickahomany at Long bridge, when our fleet returned to Brandon; which retrograde motion of ours occasioned him to return as rapidly, by forced marches, to Osborn's, where he arrived the 8th, and was preparing to cross the river to Petersburg when we arrived there, which was so unexpected, that we surprised [p339] and took two majors, (one of them aid-de-camp to Baron Steubens, the other to General Smallwood); one captain and three lieutenants of dragoons; two lieutenants of foot; a commissary, and a surgeon: Some of these gentlemen arrived only two hours before us, with an intention of collecting the boats for the marquis to cross his army.

On the 10th, the marquis made his appearance on the opposite side of the river with a strong escort, and, having staid some time to reconnoitre our army, returned to his camp at Osborn's; and we are this day informed he is marched to Richmond, where it is said Wayne, with the Pennsylvania line, has arrived: This is, however, uncertain; but he is certainly expected there.

An express passed through this place the day before our arrival here, who left Halifax on the 7th, and informed, that the advance of Lord Cornwallis' arrived there that morning: This report we have from several quarters, and I am inclined to believe it is true. Several expresses have been sent to his lordship, informing him of our being here ready to co-operate with his lordship. We are in anxious expectation of having particular intelligence from him every minute.

As soon as it is reduced to a certainty that Lord Cornwallis has crossed the Roanoke, and is on his march for this place, the army will advance one or two-days march from hence to meet his lordship, and carry a supply of provisions for his army.

A considerable magazine of flour and bread has fallen into our hands near this place, and the country abounds with cattle.

[p340] Major-general Phillips is so weak and low, that it will be some considerable time before he can go through the fatigue of business. In this critical situation, I am happy to have the assistance of so many good and experienced officers with me, commanding corps. If joined by Lord Cornwallis, or the reinforcement said to be coming from New York, we shall be in force to operate as we please in Virginia or Maryland.

I have the honour to be, &c.
B. ARNOLD.

(N O T E   Q.)

Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, K. B. dated Petersburg, in Virginia, 20th May, 1781.

Sir,
You will easily conceive how sensible an affliction it was to me, on entering this province, to receive an account of the death of my friend, General Phillips, whose loss I cannot sufficiently lament, from personal or public considerations.

The corps which I brought from North Carolina arrived here this morning. The information conveyed by your excellency to General Arnold, relative to the probable movements of the French armament, restrains me at present from any material offensive operations; but as soon as I can hear any satisfactory accounts of the two fleets, I will endeavour to make the best use in my power of the troops under my command. [p341] General Arnold being of opinion that Portsmouth, with its present garrison, is secure against a coup de main, I would wish to avoid making a precipitate movement towards that place, without absolute necessity, because it would lessen our reputation in this province: But I have sent to assure the commanding officer, that I will do every thing I can to relieve him, in case the French should attack the post. La Fayette is at Wiltown; on the other side of James river, not far from Richmond: I have not heard that Wayne has yet joined him.

It is with infinite satisfaction that I enclose to your excellency copies of two letters from Lord Rawdon, which has relieved me from the most cruel anxieties. His lordship's great abilities, courage, and firmness of mind, cannot be sufficiently admired and applauded. There is now great reason to hope that we shall meet with no serious misfortune in that province; if, however, General Greene should persevere in carrying on offensive operations against it, we must, I think, abandon Camden, and probably Ninety Six, and limit our defence to the Congaree and the Santee: This will be only giving up two bad posts, which it is difficult to supply with provisions, and quitting a part of the country, which, for some months past, we have not really possessed.

I have taken every means to inform Major Craig of my having passed the Roanoke; on which event, it was previously concerted between us, that he should fall down to Bald head, and from thence proceed to Charles town as soon as transports arrive to carry him.

The legion being in the utmost distress for want of arms, cloathing, boots, and, indeed, appointments of all kinds, I must beg that [p342] your excellency will be pleased to direct the inspector general to forward a supply of every article with the greatest dispatch.

I have the honour to be, &c.
CORNWALLIS.

(N O T E   R.)

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated Bird's plantation, May 25, 1781.

Dear Tarleton,
The swimming has succeeded very well, notwithstanding the high wind; the waggons are the most tedious part of the business. I trust, however, that every thing will be ready for your passing early to-morrow morning: In the mean time, you will patrole towards the Appamattox, and do everything you can to procure intelligence. You many venture to swim all your horses, except the very best. I have ordered the 43d regiment to land at Brandon's to-morrow morning, and march to Mead's to join the army: Should you hear of any thing material, you will communicate it to Major Ferguson.

Yours, very sincerely,
CORNWALLIS.

[p343] (N O T E   S.)

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, K. B., dated Byrd's plantation, north of James river, 26th of May, 1781.

The arrival of the reinforcement has made me easy about Portsmouth for the present. I have sent General Leslie thither with the 17th regiment and the two battalions of Anspach, keeping the 43d with the army. I shall now proceed to dislodge La Fayette from Richmond, and with my light troops to destroy any magazines or stores in the neighbourhood which may have been collected either for his use or for General Greene's army. From thence I purpose to move to the neck of Williamsburgh, which is represented as healthy, and where some subsistence may be procured, and keep myself unengaged from operations which might interfere with your plan for the campaign until I have the satisfaction of hearing from you; I hope I shall then have an opportunity to receive better information than has hitherto been in my power to procure, relative to a proper harbour and place of arms. At present I am inclined to think well of York. The objections to Portsmouth are, that it cannot be made strong without an army to defend it; that it is remarkably unhealthy, and can give no protection to a ship of the line. Wayne has not yet joined La Fayette; nor can I positively learn where he is, nor what is his force. Greene's cavalry are said to be coming this way; but I have no certain accounts of it.

[p344] (N O T E   T.)

Copy. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated camp at Jefferson's, June 9th, 1781.

Dear Tarleton,
You will proceed with the detachment of cavalry and mounted infantry under your command before daybreak to-morrow morning to Old Albemarle court house, where you will destroy any stores you may find. If you then hear of no other stores of any consequence on this side the Fluvanna, and that Baron Steuben should be still on the other side, you will cross that river, and make it your principal object to strike a blow at Baron Steuben. As the corps under his command consists of part of the new levies, and is the foundation on which the body of eighteen-months men lately voted by the province in Virginia will be formed, it will be of the utmost importance to defeat and disperse it; I should therefore wish you to take every means in your power of effecting this service, if you should see a probability of success. I likewise recommend it to you, to destroy all the enemy's stores and tobacco between James river and the Dan; and if there should be a quantity of provisions or corn collected at a private house, I would have you destroy it, even although there should be no proof of its being intended for the public service, leaving enough for the support of the family; as there is the greatest reason to apprehend that such provisions will be ultimately appropriated by the enemy to the use of General Greene's army, which, from the present state of the Carolinas, must depend on this province for its supplies.

[p345] I shall proceed by easy marches to Richmond; and it will probably be a business of eight or nine days from this time before I can get up my boats to that place to receive you; so that you may very will employ that time on your expedition. As it is very probable that some of the light troops of General Greene's army may be on their march to this country, you will do all you can to procure intelligence of their route. I need not tell you of what importance it will be to intercept them, or any prisoners of ours from South Carolina.

I would have (a.) all persons of consequence, either civil or military, brought to me before they are paroled. Most sincerely wishing you success, and placing the greatest confidence in your zeal and abilities, I am, with great truth and regard,

Dear Tarleton,
Most faithfully yours,
CORNWALLIS.

(N O T E   V.)

Copy of a letter from Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton to Earl Cornwallis, which fell into the enemy's hands, and was published by them, dated Colonel Adam's plantation, June 13, 1781, half past four P. M.

My Lord,
I believe that La Fayette passed the South Anna, or Pamunkey, this morning, for the Mountain road, at Bird's ordinary. He lay at Bird's mill yesterday evening. I have been on the Three notched road all day; I have left it for this place for the benefit of forage and communication with your lordship: I shall strike it again [p346] to-morrow morning, and go by Napier's to Pier's mill. I cannot yet learn what water it stands on. La Fayette's design is to follow. I will immediately inform your lordship if he does not keep a proper distance; any detachment I shall strike at.

I have the honour to be, &c.
BAN. TARLETON.

Copy of a letter from an aid-de-camp of Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis to Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, dated head-quarters, June 14, 1781.

Dear Tarleton,
Lord Cornwallis proposes moving (a.) to-morrow to Westham, and desires you will take post either at the fork of Pounce's tract and the Three-notched road, or nearer to Westham, as convenient to you; that you will send out distant patroles; and that you will order Pier's mill to continue grinding, and to preserve the flour already ground, on pain of military execution, till sent for.

Yours most sincerely, &c.
H. HALDANE.

(N O T E   U.)

Copy. -- From Major-general Le Marquis de la Fayette to Major-general Greene, dated Mr. Tyre's plantation, twenty miles from Williamsburgh, June 27, 1781.

Sir,
My letter of the 18th informed you of the enemy's retrograde movement to Richmond, where they made a stop. Our loss at the [p347] Point of Fork chiefly consisted of old arms out of repair, and some cannon, most of which have been since recovered.

On the 18th (a.) the British army moved towards us, with a design, as I apprehend, to strike at a detached corps, commanded by General Muhlenberg. Upon this the light infantry and Pennsylvanians marched under General Wayne, when the enemy returned into the town. The day following, I was joined by General Steuben's troops, and on the night of the 20th, Richmond was evacuated.

Having followed the enemy, our light parties fell in with them near New-Kent court house. The army was still at a distance, and Lord Cornwallis continued his march towards Williamsburgh. His rear and right flank were followed by a large detachment under Colonel Butler; but notwithstanding the most fatiguing march, the colonel reports, that he could not have overtaken them had not Major Macpherson mounted fifty light infantry behind an equal number of dragoons, which coming up with the enemy, charged them within six miles (c.) of Williamsburgh. Such of the advanced corps as could arrive, composed of riflemen, under Major Call and Major Willis, began a smart action. Inclosed is a return of our loss; that of the enemy is sixty killed, including several officers, and one hundred wounded, a disproportion which the skill of our riflemen easily explains. I am under great obligations to Colonel Butler, and the officers, and the officers and men of the detachment, for their ardour in the pursuit, and their conduct in the action.

General Wayne, who marched to the support of Butler, sent down some troops, under Major Hamilton. The whole British (b.) army came out to save Simcoe, and on the arrival of our army on this [p348] ground, returned to Williamsburgh. The post they now occupy is strong under the protection of their shipping, but upwards of one hundred miles from the Point of Fork.

I had the honour to communicate these movements to the executive of the commonwealth, that the seat of government may be again re-established in the capital.

Lord Cornwallis has received a reinforcement from Portsmouth. With the greatest respect,

I have the honour to be, &c.
LA FAYETTE.

(N O T E   W.)

Extract. -- From Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, K. B. dated Williamsburgh, June 30, 1781.

After passing James river at Westover, I moved to Hanover court house, and crossed South Anna. The Marquis de la Fayette marched to his left, keeping above at the distance of about twenty miles.

By pushing my light troops over the North Anna, I alarmed the enemy for Fredericksburgh, and for the junction with General Wayne, who was then marching through Maryland. From what I could learn of the present state of Hunter's iron manufactory, it did not appear of so much importance as the stores on the other side of the [p349] country, and it was impossible to prevent the junction between the Marquis and Wayne: I therefore took advantage of the Marquis's passing the Rhappahannock, and detached Lieutenant-colonels Simcoe (b.) and Tarleton (a.) to disturb the assembly then sitting at Charlotteville, and to destroy the stores there, at Old Albemarle court house, and the Point of Fork; moving with the infantry to the mouth of Byrd creek, near the Point of Fork, to receive these detachments. Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton took some members of the assembly at Charlotteville, and destroyed there, and on his return, one thousand stand of good arms, some clothing, and other stores, and five hundred barrels of power, without opposition.

Baron Steuben, who commanded about eight hundred twelve-months men and militia, retired with great precipitation from the Point of Fork. Lieutenant-colonel Simcoe, after using every exertion to attack his rear guard, destroyed there, and at the places adjacent, about three thousand three hundred stand of arms, most of which unserviceable, but then under repair, some salt, harness, &c., and about one hundred and fifty barrels of powder. I then moved by Richmond, and arrived at Williamsburgh on the 25th instant, having, in addition to the articles already mentioned, destroyed on this expedition at different places above two thousand hogsheads of tobacco, and a great number of iron guns, and brought off four brass, thirteen-inch mortars, five brass, eight-inch howitzers, and four long brass nine-pounders, all French. We found near Hanover court house, ten French brass twenty-four pounders, which we could not carry, and had not time or means to destroy farther than spiking, and throwing five or six of them into the Pamunkey; and we found at Williamsburgh a considerable quantity of shot and shells, which are embarked. General Wayne joined the Marquis about the middle of the month, as did [p350] Baron Steuben soon after; and their army has generally kept about twenty miles from us, without any material attempt by detachment, except in an attack on Lieutenant-colonel Simcoe, on the 26th, as he was returning with his corps and the yagers from the destruction of some boats and stores on the Chickahomany. The enemy, though much superior in numbers, were repulsed with considerable loss, three (c.) officers and twenty-eight privates were made prisoners: the rangers had three officers and thirty privates killed and wounded. Lieutenant Jones, who was killed, behaved with the greatest spirit, and is much lamented by Lieutenant-colonel Simcoe.

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