Gentlemen:
The great number of small arms our Militia lost in the late Defeat near Camden, and our Magazines greatly exhausted, caused the Board to address Govr. Jefferson on this Subject, that he would supply this State with what Stands of arms could be spared from Virginia. This day we have received his answer, which we
have enclosed you, that none can be expected from thence; hence our next Resource must be from Congress. A supply of 3 or 4,000 are immediately wanting. You will be pleased to Manage this matter with Congress as your prudence will direct. Procure what you can and have them sent on with the utmost Expedition. An account of Ferguson's Defeat you have enclosed with this from Gen. Davidson.
[Endorsed.] Letter from board of war of No. Carolina to the delegates of that State, Oct. 12, 1780. Read in Congress, 23.