Ninety Six Nov^r 23^d 1780

My Lord

From the Country reports rec^d yesterday & this Day I presume the Communication between this by Shirers Ferry is again open, & shall therefore trouble your Lordship with a Letter, tho' nothing of any consequence has occurr'd since I had the honor of writing by Col^o: Cunningham of 16^th Ins^t: I am exceeding anxious to get some authentick Accn^ts of Col^o: Tarleton's success, my expectations have been great, the prospect from the assurance of the rebels was favorable.

Last Week Col^o Brown sent here from Augusta twenty horses for the Quart^r Mast^r Gen^l's Department. I immediately acquainted Major England w^th it, & that Brown wo^d send in about ten days fifty more. -- We are increasing daily tho' moderately our stock of provision.

Last Week Col^o Allan lost a Sergeant & private who contrary to orders, were [strolling?] through the Country & taken off by some sculking fellows.

[p2] I hope soon to be honor'd with a Letter from your Lordship, the last I rec^d was of 16^th:

A Few of the Inhabitants on Long Cane have been plunderd many more deserved it for their pusilanimous behaviour, about forty to fifty rebels frighten'd the whole regiment, two or three Loyalists are killd, & many disarm'd: I think I shall never again look to the Militia for the least support, & I am convinced that it is the Kings Troops only that can hold this Country.

I have the honor to be most respectfully with the greatest Defence

My Lord
Your Lordships
Most obedient
& very hum^ble Serv^t
J. H. Cruger, Lt: C^l Comdg:

Right Hon^ble Earl Cornwallis &c &c &c

[Source: Public Records Office, Kew, PRO 30/11/4/181-182.]