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Colonial and State Records of North Carolina
Letter from James Kenan to Richard Caswell
Kenan, James, 1740-1810
March 19, 1780
Volume 15, Pages 358-359

COL. JAMES KENAN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Duplin, March 19th, 1780.

Dear Sir:

I received your favor of the 16th inst. It gives me real pleasure to find that my taking the Command of the Militia to South Carolina meets your Excellency's apposition, and be assured, Sir, I shall do everything belonging to my duty that can be expected

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from an undisciplined officer. I am exceedingly happy to find that I am commanded by General Caswell, whose abilities will do honor to the officers and men under his command.

I have sent a wagon for the muskets, Bayonets, &c., according to your request. Please to send one Cartridge Box and Bayonet properly in fix, as it will be a pattern for us to have the others done in the same way. It will be necessary to have a few pounds of powder to clean the inside of the Guns, besides what I have. I am in great want of a Marquee or some kind of Shelter from the weather. I have sent a Cart to Wilmington for Tents for the men. My Militia comes in very slow. A number, I am told, swear they will not go; those I will send after and bring in, if possible. A list of the whole men drafted I enclose you; there are five or six that are discharged, not being able to do any duty whatsoever.

Should your Excellency have received any news that you are at large to communicate, please to let me know it.

I have the honor to be your Excellency's
Mo. ob. & very humbl. Servt.,
JAS. KENAN.