Sir:

I was just now informed that some of my Soldiers had seen McClean, the Deserter from the 71st Regiment, before this. On further examination he produced a Pass signed, Sir, by You on the 9th of August, yet he insists on the truth of his last night's Tale, and adds that the Tories carried him back to Camden after he received that Pass. From the circumstance of the pass I cannot give the least Credit to him; yet as it is a matter of the highest moment, I shall not lose sight of him nor his Story till I am convinced in the clearest manner of Its truth or falsehood, and of which, Sir, I shall inform You the moment I know the certainty.

P. S. Since writing the above I have seen a man in whom I can confide who left Peedee last Tuesday, and says the Deserter's Tale is false, and that the Enemy are encamped between Camden & Lynche's Creek.