Lenew's Ferry August 5th, 1780

My Lord,

I have the Honor to inform you of my reaching this Place this Morn.g. The incessant Rains having rasied the Water & destroyed the small Bridges rendered the Journey I think tedious --

Col. Ball is here, his militia are not numerous -- He will I believe be able to furnish me with about 25 young Men to assist in allaying this Convocation near Black River & intermediate to Lenew's & Murray's Ferrys. They likewise will be able to point out the Instruments of Disaffection.

I cannot ascertain whether Major Wemyss is marched from George Town -- I shall if possible communicate with him, for that purpose I shall dispatch a Ms. to him this afternoon.

The Country My Lord, I found scared. I praised the Militia tho' not large for their celerity in turning out. They talked of the Enemy crossing to this side the Santee -- their Fears multiplied their Dangers -- A Man is just come in who informs me that they lye in Bodies of 30 & 40 -- many of the Insurgents having taken Certificates and Paroles don't deserve Lenity -- none shall they experience --

I have promised the young men who chuse to assist me in this Expedition the Plunder of the Leaders of the Faction -- If Warfare allows me I shall give these Disturbers of the Peace no Quarter; If Humanity obliges I spare their Lives: I shall convey them close Prisoners to Camden -- For a confiscation must take place in their effects. I must discriminate with Severity --

I cross the Ferry to morrow my Lord, & make use of every Exertion & Precaution in my Power -- I send all my Baggage to Nelsons under the Escort of [?] Militia on this side.

My Lord
I have the Honor
to be
with the greatest Respect
Your Lordships
devoted Serv.t
Banastre Tarleton

[Source: Public Records Office, Kew, PRO 30/11/63/19-21.]