Charles Town, June 23d, 1779.
Dr. Sir:
We have taken, in Arms, with the Enemy several persons who were formerly Inhabitants of North Carolina, and several who resided in this State. I consider such as lived here since our Government was established, not as prisoners of War, and exchangeable, but as persons who, owing allegiance to the Country, have been guilty of treason by joining the Enemy, and reserve them for trial by our criminal Law. I have directed that such as were Inhabitants of North Carolina when your present form of Government was adopted, be confined until I know your pleasure respecting them. Be pleased to inform me whether you
would wish to have them kept as prisoners here, or sent to No. Carolina to be tried by your Law for joining the Enemy. If you would choose to have them sent thither, it may be proper for you to order the officer commanding any Troops of that State, in Service here, to take charge of those People and convey them under the care of his Troops when their time of service expires and they return home.