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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from William Richardson Davie to Thomas Burke
Davie, William Richardson, 1756-1820
February 23, 1782
Volume 16, Page 202

TO GOV. THOS. BURKE FROM COL. WILLIAM R. DAVIE.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Salisbury, Feb. 23rd, 1782.

Dear Sir:

Col. P. Williams arrived last evening from the Army on his way to Maryland. General Greene was still at the Borough. He informs me that the propriety of your conduct in cancelling your parole has become a question of serious importance; that it was the opinion of the Court and General Greene that the Enemy have legal claim upon you as a prisoner of War; that your leaving Headquarters before the matters could be settled or adjusted, and that your taking the Government under those circumstances is considered highly reprehensible in you and dishonorable to the State.

You are sensible of my friendship and attachment. Pray inform me if I can serve you in this affair. Take some measures for your justification.

I have already been controverting some malicious attacks.

Adieu!

My compliments to Mrs. Burke.

I have the Honor to be
Your Excellency’s
Most Obedt. Servant,
WILLIAM R. DAVIE.