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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from John Penn to Richard Caswell
Penn, John, 1740 or 1-1788
October 16, 1777
Volume 11, Page 654

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HON. J. PENN TO GOV. CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]


York Town, Oct. 16th 1777.

Dear Sir:—

We are this minute informed of a victory obtained by Genl Gates, over Genl Burgoyne. We attacked and forced their lines, took 500 prisoners, killed many, got 9 Brass field pieces from 9 to 12 ℔s. 330 Tents with their kettles &c. The Enemy retreated in the night, & we are in pursuit of them towards Ticonderoga. Our loss was trifling except Genls Arnold & Lincoln both wounded in their legs. These were very great officers. In the late Battle between Genls. Washington & Howe, most of the North Carolina Troops were engaged, and behaved well. Col. Martin was arrested for cowardice. I have not heard the event. Genl Nash died two days after. Col. Polk's son wounded, not bad. I expect there will be another battle soon, Your son is well.

I am with due respect, Sir, your Obt Servt.,
J. PENN.

Excuse haste and little paper.