Documenting the American South Logo
Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from Joseph Taylor to Thomas Burke
Taylor, Joseph
September 07, 1781
Volume 22, Pages 594-595

JOSEPH TAYLOR TO GOV. THOS. BURKE.


Harrisburg, Sept. 7th, 1781.

Per express.

Sir:

I feel myself greatly Distressed at the backwardness of the Men of Granville County in turning out; say they cannot serve three months and find their Horses and Arms. That the Executive Power hath ever admitted two Months Service as a Tour. I believe had your Excellency directed me to have raised the men on those terms last mentioned, I could have raised near half the Militia. I am under great obligations to Col. R. Henderson for his spirited Assistance, and I think it my Duty to inform you the only Alternative for rais

-------------------- page 595 --------------------
ing men is compulsion by drafting. News is heard two ways this evening that Cornwallis is flogged. If I can get certain intelligence of it I shall feel myself happy in acquainting you with it. I have ordered the late draughts to meet at Harrisburg on Wednesday next by which time I expect to receive Gen’l Butler’s orders for a further draft. I had no special directions from your Excellency relative to my own service. If you request me in the field shall feel myself happy in attending your call, at any Time or place, to execute your orders for crushing all rebellious subjects or the Invaders of our just Rights and privileges. I sent an escort this Evening by Capt. Hicks, who is ordered to attend you to Hillsborough agreeable to your orders.

I wish you a pleasant journey and good success in all your interprises, and a safe return crowned with laurels due your Industry, integrity and great attachment for the safety and protection of your Country.

Adieu and believe me to be,
Your most obedient and humble Servt.,
JOSEPH TAYLOR.
Governor Burke.

Col. Taylor, Sept. 7th. Militia.
Rec’d and answered 8th.