1782. JET. 29.] COUNT KUMFOKD. 23 



swim to the opposite shore. We took near forty horses, 

 many of which are capital chargers. 



After the action we collected at our leisure all the cattle 

 from the rebel plantations in that quarter, and have sent 

 them down the road with a proper escort. We shall follow 

 as soon as the troops are refreshed. 



In this last affair with the enemy, as well as during the 

 whole time I have had the honour to command this detach- 

 ment, the troops, both officers and men, have behaved in 

 such a manner as to merit my warmest acknowledgment. 



I have the honour to be, with perfect respect, Sir, your 

 most obedient and most humble servant, 



R. THOMPSON. 



In the general orders on March 1 the General 

 expressed to the army the opinion he entertained of the 

 merit of Colonel Thompson's conduct upon this occasion, 

 and of the spirited behaviour of the troops, and to Sir 

 H. Clinton he wrote, March 12, 1782 : 



I had the honour to inform your Excellency that Lieu- 

 tenant-Colonel Thompson having offered his service during 

 his stay here, I had appointed him to the command of the 

 cavalry. He has put them in exceeding good order and 

 gained their confidence and affection. I am very happy to 

 inform your Excellency of his success in a late excursion 

 upon the Santee. [An account of the action is then given 

 in the despatch.] I enclose to your Excellency Colonel 

 Thompson's report to me of this very handsome piece of 

 service, and I assure your Excellency that I have much 

 regret to part with this enterprising young officer, who 

 appears to have an uncommon share of merit and zeal for 

 the service ; and could he and his corps be spared to act 

 in this part, where cavalry are so much wanted, I am con- 

 fident it would tend much to the benefit of his Majesty's 

 service. 



*c4 



