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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from Archibald Maclaine to George Hooper
Maclaine, Archibald, 1728-1790
September 29, 1783
Volume 16, Pages 982-984

HON. A. MACLAINE TO GEORGE HOOPER.

Wilmington, 1st September, 1783.

My Dear Sir:

It was known till Saturday evening that Captain Read (who carries this) intended for Charlestown, otherwise Kitty might probably have been prepared for her departure. At present she says it is impossible. Brennan has been sick, so that I do not know when he will be ready. Dickinson (in whom Cruden returned from Florida) has a cabbin into which the air cannot penetrate but by one passage from the deck; so that it will not do in this hot season.

I have received an answer from the governor which I find from his letter, as well as from Armstrong’s, had lain a fortnight at Hillsborough, tho’ Paterson had come down while it was there. It was directed to the care of Mr. Hogg; but not a line from him to you or to me. The Governor writes me that as there are some reports or accusations, (I do not recollect which of the words he uses, and I am now at the house of M.A.H.) against your brother, he has in his quaint phrase taken an advisari upon his case. Armstrong expresses his astonishment at this. For my own part I have ceased wondering at any thing that may happen. Even the certificate which has been inclosed for you, and which has the great seal appendant, is a proof of great poorness of spirit; for though it concluded with the form and substance which I proposed, it is preceeded by a parcel of stuff about your leaving this with the British, and part of the exceptions in the act of pardon. This he writes me that he thought necessary, lest it should be hereafter suggested that any thing was concealed. It is even a doubt with me whether he intends granting you that favor whieh he himself proposed, and which I am now pleased I did not solicit. But you shall have his letter, and the certificate by Kitty; and by these you may form a judgment. As to your brother, I do not intend to give the matter up. I will write again to the Governor and to Armstrong if it is only to prepare the former for a personal application in October. I purpose to strengthen myself by Mr. Johnson & Mr. Burke; but my principal reliance will be on the

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definitive treaty. Something in the mean time must however be done for your brother, and possibly for you; if they should boggle at the certificate granted you.

As I suspected, the proclamation has done all the mischief, it was intended to prevent. Nothing now is talked of but sending off London & Brice; and the patriots even talk of adding those who have been acquitted to the number. Such wisdom is there in our government.

Poor Tom Wright is dangerously ill. Claypoole as usual was called at a late hour, but I fear too late. Mrs. M. has had an intermittent some days.

All beside well.

Yours affectionately,
A. MACLAINE.