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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from Richard Caswell to John Ashe
Caswell, Richard, 1729-1789
September 08, 1777
Volume 11, Page 611

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GOV. CASWELL TO GEN. ASHE.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Kinston, 8th Septr, 1777.

Dear Sir:—

Since writing to you yesterday, I have ordered Col. Dauge with a detachment of 100 men from the 10th Battalion to march immediately from this for Wilmington with a sufficient number of carriages to bring off the remainder of the powder and lead, except a ton of gun powder, & a proportionate quantity of lead; or if he is obliged to leave more lead, that with the powder you will be pleased to have removed from Wilmington to a place of greater security. I have wrote to the Commissary of Stores to take your directions herein. Be pleased to see that all the powder, except the aforesaid ton, and what lead Col. Dauge's party can bring, is delivered them. I rely on you executing the Resolve of Congress with the greatest expedition so far as relates to the naval stores: and to effect it, in case it is absolutely necessary, Col. Dauge has orders to give every assistance in his power. But if this is not really necessary, be pleased to let him return as soon as he can, as 'tis possible when 'tis known among the Tories above that his party is to bring off the ammunition, he may meet with some opposition on the road. Upon the whole, Sir, I am happy in knowing that every thing committed to your management will be conducted in such manner, as will do honor to yourself & tend to the advantage of the public. I therefore shall submit the whole to you, without saying further than that

I am &c.
RICHARD CASWELL.