Nathanael Greene letter to Francis Marion, 9 July 1782

HEAD-QUARTERS (Mr. Cattle's Plantation), July 9, 1782.

DEAR SIR :

Yours of the 16th June and 8th July I have had the pleasure to receive, and am made happy that you have brought Major Ganey, and his party, to submit to the laws of the State without making much use of force. Nothing reflects more honor upon an officer than accomplishing that by address which others could effect only by force; to save the effusion of human blood must be the wish of every humane and generous bosom. I fancy you must be mistaken about Mr. RavenePs being in confinement. Capt. Warren, our Commissary of prisoners, was in town to examine the state of all the prisoners, as well militia as regulars; his report contains no such thing. Capt. SkeJly is released in consideration of Judge Pendleton being set at liberty. The Judge has come out, and Capt. Skelly gone in. Should it be found that Mr. Ravenel is in confinement, which I cannot suppose, I will write to Gen. Leslie on the subject. It is evidently for the interest of those corps of Maham and Hampton to be incorporated. Neither would have existence long without it; but, by being consolidated, they will have, perhaps, a permanency during the war, and provision made for them accordingly. You will inform the officers thereof, that it is a matter settled between the Governor and myself, that the two corps be united, and that they are to be considered in future upon the State establishment. This was thought advisable after the fullest examination of the matter, and I

hope the officers will make no difficulty in concurring in a measure equally beneficial to them, as necessary for the public good. The requisition for the militia was upon the supposition that the garrison of Savannah might come to Charlestown, and give the enemy such an additional force as to enable them to give a blow to our army. I believe Savannah is not fully evacuated, and therefore nothing to apprehend at present; you will remain, therefore, on the other side of Cooper River, between that and Santee, to protect the people from the daily depredations of little parties from Charlestown. If the garrison of Savannah arrives, I will notify you, and direct you where to form a junction with me. It is said that Fanning is determined to have you, dead or alive, therefore, take care of yourself. It is, also, reported, by a person in the enemy's secrets, that a large party of the enemy is to move out soon into St. Thomas and St. Stephens parishes.

I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant,

Nathanael Greene.

July 10, 1782.

By a woman from town last night, I have just heard the garrison of Savannah is actually arrived at Charlestown. If it should prove true, you will hear from me again immediately.