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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from Samuel Johnston to Thomas Burke
Johnston, Samuel, 1733-1816
May 24, 1779
Volume 14, Pages 307-308

HON. SAML. JOHNSTON TO THOMAS BURKE, ESQR.

Edenton, 24th May, 1779.

The Honorable Thomas Burke, Esq., in Congress, Philadelphia:

Your favor of the 17th of March was late coming to hand. I am much obliged to you for forwarding the Letter which it covered, tho' letters between friends are of very little consequence at this season, few people caring to commit to paper what they know or what they think on the only subject which, at present, is thought of consequence or worthy attention. I have long heard of great affairs being before Congress, and have waited with impatience for the result of their deliberatious. Should it at last produce a Mouse, how miserably should I be disappointed.

The British Troops, contrary to the expectations of every man who retained in the smallest degree any favourable Sentiments of their humanity or Pity, are carrying into execution the last threats of the Commissioners by Burning Suffolk. The people of this Town were very much alarmed on hearing that they were on their way here, and prepared to give them a warm reception. I believe in my Soul that, in spight of every disposition to the contrary,

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they will at last drive the people of America to forswear any trade or connection of any kind with them, and that they will be as much hated and despised as they were once honoured and revered by us.

I refer you to your official Letters for the proceedings of the last Assembly, as it was the first time of my being a member since our resolution. I considered myself a young member and took no share in the Debates. I am uncertain by what hand this will go, therefore have only to add my best wishes for your health and that I am,

with great respect, Dr. Sir,
Your most obedient Serv't,
SAML. JOHNSTON.