Salisbury, Feb. 4, 1781.

My Dear Lord,
We passed the Catawba on the 1st at a private ford, about four miles below Beatty's. The Guards behaved gallantly, and, although they were fired upon during the whole time of their passing by some militia under General Davidson,¹ never returned a shot until they got out of the river and formed. On the same day Tarleton attacked a considerable body of militia, killed several, took some prisoners, and dispersed the rest.

I am much distressed by the rivers and creeks being swelled, but shall try to pass the Yadkin at the shallow ford as soon as possible.

I have the utmost confidence in your abilities and discretion. Our friends must be so disheartened by the misfortune of the 17th, that you will get but little good from them. You know the importance of Ninety-six: let that place be your constant care. I long to hear from you.

Yours most sincerely,
CORNWALLIS.

[Source: Charles, Marquis Cornwallis, The Correspondence of Charles, First Marquis Cornwallis, 2d ed. Ed. Charles Derek Ross. 3 vols. (London: J. Murray, 1859), 1:84-85.]

Notes:

¹ [1] General Davidson was killed in this action. [ back ]