My Lord.

I had the Honor of writing your Lordship Two days ago, Acquainting you that I had sent of[f] Twenty Prisoners. Four of which it seems not being able to march Remained A Lt. [Forest?] of Col: Careys set of[f] with a guard of Eleven Including himself charged with fifteen Prisoners. They put up at a house near Hunters the Twelve mile house. When by some Treachery the Prisoners not only Disarmed the Guard but Paroled them.

Major Prevost being at Hunter's and hearing there was some Confusion amongst them [p2] went up, and found Mr. [Forest?] very drunk and the Prisoners gone Except a young boy who woud not go. They were so generous to Mr. [Forest?] as to make him a present of his arms back again, which is very Strong Presumption that it had been a concerted Scheme.

Tarleton marched this morning Early I let him have our Light Company and the Officers of the Garrison mustered up about Twenty-five horses to asist him. I imagine He will be in the Rear of Singleton before day break Tomorrow. Nothing new from the Waxhaws. Rudgely is arrived from Town very Sick. I am afraid [p3] I Blamed him too Rashly. I am with the utmost Respect.

Your Lordships
most Faithfull
Humble Servant
Geo: Turnbull

Camden Nov. 5^th 1780

Earl Cornwallis

[Source: Public Records Office, Kew, PRO 30/11/4/25-26.]