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Extract.- From Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton to Earl Cornwallis, dated Brookes', Jan. 4th, 1781. MORGAN, with upwards of one thousand two hundred men, being on this side Broad river, to threaten Ninety Six, and evade your lordship's army whenever you may move, I beg leave to offer my opinion how his design may be prevented. I must draw my baggage, the 71st and legion's are deposited at my old camp, to me. I wish it to be escorted by the 17th light dragoons, for whom horses re ready; by the yagers, if to be spared; and by the 7th regiment. The 7th I will send,. As soon as I reach Ennoree, with the field piece, to Ninety Six. My encampment is now twenty miles from Brierley's, in a plentiful forage country, and I can lay in four days flour for a move. When I advance, I must either destroy Morgan's (b.) corps, or push it before me over Broad river, towards King's (e.) mountain. The advance of the army should commence (when your lordship orders this (c.) corps to move) onwards for King's (d.) mountain. Frequent communication by letter can pass the Broad river. I feel myself bold in offering my opinion, as it flows from zeal for the public service, and well-grounded inquiry concerning the enemy's designs and operations. I have directed Captain M'Pherson, the bearer of this letter, who is going on the recruiting service, to deliver a letter to Lieutenant Munroe, whom I left at my camp, to bring up my baggage, but no women. If your lordship approves of this plan, Captain M'Pherson may give my order to Lieutenant Munroe to escort to me three puncheons of rum, and some salt; and, upon their arrival, I will move. (From A History of the Campaigns of 1780 and 1781, in the Southern Province of North America?, by Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, pp245-246.) Tarleton, Ch 4., [G], p. 245 1/4/1781 |
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