Kingston, 5th March, 1779.
Sir:
I rec'd by Mr. Hicks from his Excellency Gov. Rutledge, a letter informing me of his having sent, under the charge of a Detachment of Militia commanded by you, a number of Prisoners to be secured in this State. Mr. Hicks informs me you intend to proceed by way of Cross Creek, and as I think it will be safest to convey them to Halifax, I recommend your proceeding from Cross Creek thro' Duplin County, near the Court House, near Mr. Bray's ferry on Neuse, thence to Tarborough, and from that to Halifax. At Cross Creek, Mr. Gray's and Tarboro' you may be supplied with provisions, and if you have occasion of money on
your march, draw on me, and I will advance such sums as you may have occasion for on the credit of your State. Mr. Porterfield, at Cross Creek; Mr. Gray, at Neuse, and Mr. Bignall, at Tarborough, are hereby required to furnish provisions to your Detachment and their charge on your order or that of the commanding officer of the Detachment.