I gave you information in my last letter that Genl Greene had cross’d the Dan, at Boid’s ferry, and that L[or]d Cornwallis had arrived at the opposite shore.1 large reinforcements of militia having embodied both in the front & rear of the enemy, he is retreating with as much rapidity as he advanced. his route is towards Hilsborough. Genl Greene cross’d the Dan the 21st in pursuit of him.2 I have the pleasure to inform you that the spirit of opposition among the people was as universal and ardent as could have been wished. there was no restraint on the numbers which embodied but the want of arms.

The British at Portsmouth lie close in their lines—the French Squadron keep them in by water, and since their arrival, as they put it out of the power of the enemy to cut off our retreat by sending up Nansemond river, our force has been moved down close to their lines.3 I have the honor to be with the greatest respect, Sir, Your most obedt & Most humble Servt