Sir:—
Yours of the 16th inst., with the proclamation, I have now before me. Will observe the contents with the greatest cheerfulness. Shall use every means in my power to bring out my men as well equipped as the times will admit, and with as much dispatch as possible.
Though as to the Edenton District, but few in North Carolina is much more extensive and cut in pieces with swamp waters, etc., than any other in the State. I am doubtful the troops will not be so soon assembled as may be expected.
The regular recruits being scattered all over the district on furloughs, with the volunteers and belated soldiers, till the 20th of February next, then to meet at Edenton.