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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from Archibald Maclaine to George Hooper
Maclaine, Archibald, 1728-1790
December 20, 1784
Volume 17, Page 188

HON. A. MACLAINE TO GEORGE HOOPER.


Wilmington, 20th Dec., 1784.

Dear Sir:

I received your packets this morning before I was out of bed, with a message (which I did not believe) that Capt. Cross would return tomorrow. For nine days past I have been extremely indisposed with a very dreadful cold, which is principally in my head. This makes it very painful to write, as there seems to be a weight which I cannot throw off. I am however taking medicine and am somewhat easier.

In my present situation, it is impossible for me to give you such an account as you want; but I can tell you that the Judges have deceived me. Tho' they have discontinued the prosecutions for treason, they have bound over some (Brice among others) to answer to a misdemeanor for returning to the State. But they will not suffer such as are to be accused of misdemeanors to bring or maintain suits. What is still more extraordinary, they quibble away the treaty in the most shameful manner, so as to prevent inhabitants of Britain from suing. But I must bid you adieu.

A. MACLAINE.

We have lately lost Jack Lillington, Frank Lucas & two other Bladen men.

My love to Kitty & the children.

What they may do in this State hereafter in the banishment way, I do not know; but I know there are some deeply interested in such a measure. I therefore think it advisable that you should become a citizen of S. Carolina.