Documenting the American South Logo
Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from William Lee Davidson to Horatio Gates
Davidson, William Lee, 1746-1781
September 26, 1780
Volume 14, Page 655

-------------------- page 655 --------------------
BRIG. GENL. DAVIDSON TO MAJ. GENL. GATES.

Sir:

This day at 11 o'clock the enemy marched into Charlotte in force. According to the best information, Col. Davie skirmished with them at that place, and for several hours since, retreating as pr. express. About two he was reinforced by above 300 cavalry and infantry, but no intelligence since they joined him. He is directed to continue skirmishing with them to cover our retreat. The inhabitants are flying before us in consternation, and except we are soon reinforced the West side of Yadkin must inevitably fall a prey to the enemy. Rowan is able to give us very little assistance, on account of Col. Ferguson's movements to the Westward.

Sir, I have the honour to be
Your most obedt. and humb. Sert.,
WM. DAVIDSON,
B. Genl.

Capt. Phifer's.
Sept. 26, 1780.
Genl. Gates.

P. S. Gen. Sumner desires me to give you this information:

(The subjoined was found on back of letter.)

By Gen. Sumner's return
800
Col. Sumpter
400
Virginia Militia at Guilford, or near it
430