D'r Sir:
We have intelligence here that the enemy is moving from Wilmington towards this place, Gen. Lillington has retreated to Kinston and the people in the neighbourhood are moving off, also Gen Caswell is on his way up.
You will receive by the bearer Samuel Thomas a horse which I have taken out of another team for you, At the time I sent you that team it was the best I had, I wish you to purchase another horse or impress one to go with this, if you can't I will endeavour to get you a better team if possible.
I am this day moving off some of the public stores up the country.