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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from Nathanael Greene to Jethro Sumner
Greene, Nathanael, 1742-1786
December 15, 1780
Volume 14, Page 792

GEN. GREENE TO GEN. JETHRO SUMNER.

“It is to be wished that none but the most active officers will continue in service, and that those whose constitutions or any natural defects render them incapable of serving this country to advantage will give place. You will take the most effectual measures to collect all deserters and prisoners who have made their escape from the enemy, belonging to this state, and who are enlisted for the war. Many hundred of the latter class, I am told are now up and down the country. Advertisements must be set up in each county ordering the soldiers to rendezvous at particular places, and in your advertisements you will promise a pardon to all deserters that shall join. The place of general rendezvous is to be at Hillsborough. You will consult with the Board of War immediately a plan for clothing, arming and equipping your troops as they are brought into the field.”