Dear Sir:

I was last evening honoured with your Excelly's favour of the 23rd Ulto. I am happy to hear that some of your men are on their march to head quarters. I wish that I could say that matters here wore the most promising aspect, and that we did not need the greatest exertions of your State and that of Virginia more. I need not say particulars; I dare not enter into them considering the distance of country through which this letter must pass. You wish to have a particular account of the affair at Cross Creek; the subject is too delicate; excuse me, dear Sir, if I inclose for your inspection a copy of my public letter to Congress & a copy of a result of a Court of Enquiry, appointed at General Ashe's request to enquire into his conduct at that place. Your son, Col. Caswell, without design, was not in the action; he is well, and by his faithful attention on his duty merited much from his country; while I congratulate you on this occasion, permit me to drop the tear of sympathy with you on the unhappy fate of one of your sons—that he may soon return in safety is my most honest wish. Your men, although this State would make up their pay to twelve shillings a day, cannot be persuaded to continue in camp. The Enemy give out that they expect a re-inforcement from New York. Should they receive one I think they will attempt some offensive operations in this State. I expect soon to have an opportunity to write again.