96 CALENDAR OF THE WEEDOX CORRESPOXDEXCE. [May 5, 



Nelson, Thomas {continued ) : 



Getting together tlat-bottomed boats. In great need of arms, 

 also of men to repair them. Enemy prevented his crossing 

 the river to meet Muhlenberg. No. 29. 



1780. — November 4. Williamsburg. — Orders just issued to bring 

 boats at the shipyard to Burwell's Ferry. Before receiving his 

 letter of 2d inst., had sent two detachments of horse to Gen. 

 Muhlenberg, and a third will follow. Col. Southall with part 

 of his troops is around Hampton, sent thither as a man of dis- 

 cretion to prevent any intercourse between the enemy and the 

 inhabitants. Thinks he ought to stay there, but, if necessary, 

 will send him to join Gen. Muhlenberg. Medicine needed. 



No. 53. 



1780. — November 22. Mich Neck. — Acknowledging letter of the 

 19th. Does not understand why English fleet remains in 

 Hampton Roads. They have an idea that his (Nelson's) 

 force is 3000 strong. Several negroes have joined the English. 

 Prospect of a glorious ending to the campaign. Detached 

 condition of his brigade. No. 59. 



1 781. — June 18. Leeds. — Informing him that he has sent up six 

 prisoners under guard. Incloses proceedings of a general 

 court-martial held for their trial. Necessity of guarding them 

 closely. Incloses also general return and copy of circular 

 letter to the county-lieutenants of Northumberland and Lan- 

 caster, on back of which is a copy of orders to the officers 

 commanding two companies for the defence of Westmoreland 

 and Richmond. His present command the most pleasant in 

 all his military experience. Forming legions of Westmore- 

 land and Richmond, in order to furlough the rest of his com- 

 mand. Question of cavalry. No. 131. 



1 781. — June jg. Leeds. — Concerning the trial of some ''vile 

 rascals." Happy effects produced by this tribunal. When it 

 is over will send prisoners under guard to him to be forwarded 

 to their respective destinations with statements of their crimes 

 and the sentence of the court martial. More about the grant- 

 ing of furloughs. Begs permission to go and assist his family 

 who are without food, raiment or lodging. Complains of 

 never receiving a line from any militia officer. Houses burned 

 by enemy. Robberies committed by enemy's privateers since 



