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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from John Jay to Richard Caswell
Jay, John, 1745-1829
August 14, 1779
Volume 14, Pages 194-195

PRESIDENT JOHN JAY TO GOV. CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]


Philadelphia, 14th August, 1779.

Sir:

Congress have deemed it highly necessary to inform you that the Enemy have exerted themselves to send out a very considerable Reinforcement to their Army in America; now seven thousand were destined hither from Europe and three thousand from the West Indies. The operations in the place last mentioned may perhaps detain the latter, but there is no solid reason to expect that the European Reinforcement will not arrive. It is proper you should be informed that our Allies were much concerned to find that preparations were not earlier made for a vigorous Campaign. The Exertions of America are necessary to obtain the great objects of the Alliance, her Liberty, Sovereignty and Independence. The particulars already exhibited by the Enemy, and their avowed

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determination to give a still greater scope to their Ravages, are additional motives to our Endeavours. Congress are fully convinced, therefore, that you will comply with their earnest wishes, to prepare for the most immediate and most vigorous operations, particularly by filling up your Battalions, and having the Militia of your State ready to march at the shortest notice. It is highly probable that circumstances may soon call them forth to operate offensively, and it is hoped and expected with such energy and effect as to free these States from their hostile Invaders.

I have the honor to be,
With great respect and esteem,
Your Excellency's Mo. ob. Serv't,
JOHN JAY, Presdt.
Gov. Caswell.

P. S. A Copy of an Act of Congress of the 12th Inst., against John Douglass, late commander of the Privateer Schooner called the Hunter, is herewith enclosed.