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By Col. Bryan.

Sir:

I this moment received your favor of Capt. Hearon, as soon as

possible shall collect the Depositions against James Gleaton and forward them to Halifax, and shall be particular in future in sending crimes against those sent. From the encouragement Maj. Craigg has lately had in his manoeuvres this way, I am induced to believe that we shall have our hands full in this Quarter, should Lord Cornwallis advance. Sunday morning last he marched from near Rutherford’s Mills for the Great Bridge (called Hearn’s or Bleufort’s) where I imagine he will leave a strong Guard. His force I suppose to be 400 British, 500 Tories, and if he can Arm them, 500 Negroes. A number of the Tories that went off with them have returned into their strong Swamps, from whence they will commit many daring outrages, and I cannot by no means account for the Transactions of some men in this District should they fall into their Hands. (About three lines torn out.) The Bearer hereof, Col. Nathan Bryan, waits on your Excellency for to obtain a Flagg for Reasons which he will offer, much dependence may be put in him and the accts. he gives you. Some Gentlemen of Character received the British in New Bern with much seeming satisfaction and pleasure welcomed them to that post. Shall thank your Excellency for orders respecting them. Col. Bryan can give an account of them.

Militia.

Gen. Caswell, Sept. 4th, 1781. Rec’d 10th; answered 11th.

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