Sir:

Your Letter of the 17th November containing charges against Captain Raiford, who I ordered immediately to attend your summons, I have received, but from its being recommended by Colonel Lytle and others that the arrival of your letter was too late to afford time for him to go to Wilmington before the Court would rise, I permitted him to continue with the Army. As he was appointed to the command of the light infantry, and ready to attend the sitting of the next Superior Court, I did not order him immediately into the State, supposing you only meant to have him ready for trial, when the Court was in being. Upon inquiry into the matter I hope your Excellency will find his conduct far less blamable than it has been represented to you, but be that as it may, he shall be forthcoming at any time you may think proper, if the time proposed is not agreeable. No Officer shall have protection in the army that Offends against the Laws of the Land; but I would wish to treat them with delicacy until their guilt appears. You will please communicate your further wishes in the matter.