^^~^ ^*. i**- 'c^. ^<^^ jt. -^ 0' -7*, .xV ^o^^ ,^^' 'V ^ *% -^^A V^^ ^0^^. ^"^• .x^^' '^^ •^^" > . - f £^: /^:- '/ %. *>■ - ' ' v^^'"^-^- -' /-* -">% \ ' ^ ^ '^ '^^^ ^%^ %^ -^"^ ^' v^*^^.^ . <\ O ' .> «. ^ ,0 ^ ''' / V. *> «'A ■.♦'V " " ^ x<5o.. ^ \ •-:%:*- ,V'^' Sc V 1 ^*. ; %. % Z". ^'' ^ ^ :. - -^0^ ^ -\ "^ >^^ ^ ''-'c h //^5^^\%^' .^ .^^^^; J, y V- V" I: ^-^ •'*.. ■^o o-* o ,.>*"' ^^ - <^ c- v' » ■■ ' "/ %. ^ .^'^ rV'^ 5i * o -■i^ % - /■;. % '^t^ ^.;sfr "-■ V- / ^0°^ ANECDOTES OF THK J. SKETCHES OF CHARACTER I'BRSONS THE MOST DISTINGUISHED, IN THE SOUTHERN STATES. FOl? GIVIL AND MILITARY SERVICES. BY ALEXANDER OAPn^N. >r lee's partisan legion ; aid-de-camp to major general greene : AND HONORARY MEMBER OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF NKAV-YORK. cannot but remember suA thing-s were." Shukspeare. CHARLESTON: ^HINTED FOR THE AUTHOR, BY A. E. MILLER,. NO. 4, BROAD-STREET 1822. :V^ District of isoulh-Cuiolinu, to loit : #0000# BE IT REMEMBERED, That on tbe first day of April, Anno Domuii, one Q Q thousand eight hundred and twenty-two, and in the fortj'-sixth year of the In- SEAL. dependence of the United States of America, Major Alexander Garden, deposited in this office the title of a book, the right whereof he claims as author and 4iOOOO# proprietor, in the words following, to wit : " Anecdotes of the Revolutionary War in America, with Sketches of Character of persons the most distinguished in the Southern States, for Civil and Military services. By Alexander Garden, of Lee's Partisan Legion; Aid-de-Camp to Major General Greene, and Honorary Blember of the Historical Society of New-York. I cannot but remember such things were." — Shakspeare. In conformity with the act of Congress of the United States, entitled " An act for the Encouragement of Learning, by securing tbe Copies of maps, cliarts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times thei-ein mentioned," and also to the act entitled " An act supplementary to an act, entitled, ' An act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned', and extending the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, entrravinir and etching historical and other prints." ^ ^ JABIES JERVEY, ClcrJc of the District of South-Carolina. TO PRESIDENT CxENERAL OF THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI. TO M^l ^tn. ^ftomuu mntUmSf PRESIDENT, AND THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI IN SOUTH-CAROLINA, IN GRATITUDE FOR LONG EXPERIENCED TESTIMONIES OF THEIR FAVOUR AND CORDIAL REGARD, THIS WORK IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED, BY THEIR BROTHER AND FRIEND THE AUTHOR. w® wmm maABum. The Author of the following pages would be deficient in gratitude, did he fail to return his warmest thanks for the liberal patronage received from the Public. The rapidity with which his Subscription Lists have been filed up, is not only flattering to his effort to give to society a Work, that properly executed, may, to the rising generation, prove of some utility ; but, particularly so, as it evinces, that an attachment to Revolutionary principles, is cherished in the bosoms of his fellow-citizens, with pristine ardour and admi- ration. It is not, however, numbers, so much as honourable names, that he ivould possess ; and ivhen on his lists he sees the signatures of many of those distinguished Ladies, whose firmness and exem^ plary conduct in the day of trial, dignified their sex, and adorned, the annals of their country ; and of venerable Patriots, whose wisdom in council, and valour in the field, essentially contributed to fix the Independence of America, he claims a right to be proud, and has only to hope, that his performance may justify their partiality. To the Honorable Judge Desaussure, and Mr. Keating Simons, he acknoioledges himself particularly indebted for much informa- tion respecting Generals Davie and Marion. To Colonel Robert Y. Hayne, for the sketch of the life and services of Dr. David Ramsay ; and to Colonel Arthur P. Hayne, for his interesting account of the battle of the 23d December, before New-Orleans. To the Honourable Judge Peters of Pennsylvania, he is indebted for many interesting Anecdotes; and feels pari icular obligation for vi TO THE READER. the politeness with which, though a stranger to him, they were generously presented. To his brother soldiers, the Honourable Judge Peter Johnson of Abingdon, Virginia, and Dr. Matthew Irvine, of Charleston, he feels peculiar gratitude for the details of the services of the Legionary Officers and Soldiers, and many of the occurrences connected loith the Army of the South. Nor is he less obliged to Dr. William READ,ybr his interesting statement of the sufferings of the Continental Army, and of the heroic fGriitude loitJi ivhich those intrepid Sons of Freedom supported them. Finally, it affords him great pleasure, to express his thanks to his friends, Mr. Stephen Elliott, Thomas S. Grimke, and Mitchell King, for their judicious advice during the progress of his Work, and aid in its arrangement when preparing for the press. CONTENTS. Introduction, Moultrie, Second Regiment, Letter from Lord Charles Mon- tague to General Moultrie, Reply to the same, Lieut. Colonel Isaac Motte, General Marion, Lieut. Colonel Peter Horry, Lieut. Colonel Mayham, PAGE. 1 7 12 PARTISAN COMMANDERS OF MILITIA. General Sumter, General Pickens, General Davie, General Barnwell, PAGE Particulars of the gallant attempt to rescue General de la Fayette from his confinement at Olmutz, 96 SURVIVORS OF THE REVO- LUTION. General Charles C. Pinckney, 104 General Thomas Pinckney, 110 General Jackson, 11& Account of the battle of the 23d December, 1814, by Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Hay ne, 119 CHARACTER AND CONDUCT OF THE OFFICERS OF LEE'S LE- GION. DISTINGUISHED CONTINENTAL OFFICERS. General Huger, 55 General Morgan, 57 Colonel Otho H. Williams, 59 Colonel Howard, 60 Colonel Carrington, 61 Lieutenant Colonel Lee, 62 Lieut. Colonel Washington, 68 General Greene, 75 OFFICERS WHO FELL IN THE SOUTHERN WAR. Colonel Owen Roberts, 85 Lieut. Colonel John Laurens, 86 Sergeant Jasper, 90 Wilmott and Moore, 91 Lieut. Colonel Richard Parker, 93 Captains Moultrie and Neyle, and Lieut. Colonel Campbell, 94 Lieut. Duval and Maj. Benj. Huger, 95 9^ Capt. Joseph Eggleston, Capt. James Armstrong, Capt. Ferdinand O'Neal, Capt. Michael Rudolph, Capt. Handy, Lieutenant Peter Johnston, Lieutenant John Middleton, Lieutenant Clement Carrington, Dr. Matthew Irvine, Dr. Skinner, Lieut. Manning, and remarkable occurences leading to the de- feat of Colonel Pyle, 123 125 127 128 130 131 132 133 134 135 140 DISTINGUISHED SOLDIERS OF THE LEGION. Sergeant Whaling, Sergeant Mitchell, Bulkley and Newman. Corporal Cooper, Sergeant Ord, Perry Scott, 149 150 151 152 156 157 CONTENTS. PAGE Patriots in the Civil Line, and pri- soners confined as subjects for retaliation, 15£ Exiles to St. Augustine, 16c Prisoners on board the Prison- ships, 16^ Ancient Battalion of Artillery, 167 DISTINGUISHED CHARACTERS IN THE CIVIL DEPARTMENT OF GOVERNMENT General Gadsden, 169 John Rutledge, 173 Edward Rutledge, 176 Hugh Rutledge, 177 Dr. David Ramsay, 178 William Henry Drayton, 183 John Edwards, 186 John Matthews, 189 Benjamin Guerard, 191 Judge Burke, 192 Captain Richard Gough, 197 EXEMPLARY GOOD CONDUCT OF THE CLERGY Bishop Smith, 199 Dr. Percy and Rev. Mr. Lewis, 200 Dr. Purcell, Rev. P. Terquatfd, and Rev. Samuel Warren, 201 Rev. Josiah Smith and Rev. Mr. Tennant, 202 Rev. Dr. Furman, 205 CONDUCT OF OUR ALLIES THE FRENCH, 206 •* Baron de CarendefFez, 207 Chevalier de Buysson, ib. Chevalier Duplessis Maiduit, 208 Lieutenant Colonel Fleur}^, 211 Baron de Kalb, ib. Marquis de la Fayette, 215 DISTINGUISHED NAVAL OFFI- CERS, 217 Capt. Manly and Capt. Harraden, 218 Capt. Geddes and Paul Jones, 219 Captain Barry, 220 Captain Barney, 221 Captain Biddle, 223 CONDUCT OF THE WHIG LA- DIES, 224 Mrs. Jacob Motte, Mrs. Thomas Heyward, Mrs. Rebecca Edwards, Miss Mary Anna Gibbes, Mrs. Brewton, (since Foster) 226 227 228 229 2oO PAGE Mrs. Channing, 234 Mrs. Charles Elliott, 235 Mrs. D.Hall and Mrs. C. Pinckney, 238 Mrs. S. Elliott and Mrs. Isaac Holmes, 2.39 Mrs. Richard Shubrick, 240 Mrs. Ralph Izard, 242 CONDUCT OF LADIES SUPPORT- ING OPPOSITE PRINCIPLES, 243 Mrs. M'Culloch, &c. &c. Strictures on the conduct of the British Commanders in the South, Particulars relative to the death of Colonel Isaac Hayne, Governor Rntledge's animad- versions on the general con- duct of the *^nemy, delivered in his Speech to the Legisla- ture at Jacksonljorough, DISTINGUISHED BRITISH OFFICERS. Lord Cornwallis, Lieutenant Colonel Archibald Campbell, 71st, Lord Rawdon, General Webster, Colonel Small, Colonel Tarleton, Benedict Arnold, Major Andr^, Captors of Andre, 244 246 250 256 272 277 278 280 282 284 288 291 292 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF THE CONTENDING ARMIES, 295 The most illustrious Patriots of Great Britain opposed to the American War, 312 Letters of the Right Honourable \Mlliam Windiiam, on that subject, 315 Notice of Botta s History, 319 Instances of the benign interpo- sition of Providence in Ame- rican affairs, 324 Robert Morris, Timothy Pickering, Baron Steuben, General Gates, General Conway, General Charles Lee. .333 338 340 345 351 35? CONTENTS. XI Major Evan Edwards, General Schuyler, PAGE. 356 359 Quaker congratulations on the battle of Guilford, 361 Failure of the contemplated at- tack on John's Island, 363 Contemplated mutiny of the army under General Greene, 365 Evacuation of Charleston, 369 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. Night attack on the camp of Gen. Wayne by Gurestessego, Chief of the Creek Warriors, 373 Major Maxwell, 374 General William Bufler, 375 Gallantry of a Boy of 14, 378 Lieutenant Ballard Smith, 378 Lieutenant Foster, 380 Lieutenant John Rhodes, 381 Lieutenant Farhana, 382 Mrs Wright, 383 Deliesseline, 384 Captain Gee, 385 Captain Zeigler, 386 Fickling, 387 Happy Escape, 389 Characteristic Anecdotes of Gen. Washington, 393 Old Lydick, 394 Michael Docherty^ 396 Colonel Menzies, 398 Yankee Captain, 400 Exchange of Shells, 400 Instance of Republican «obrais- sion to misfortune. 401 Levingstone, 402 Loaster, 403 George Petrie, 404 Remarkable incident, 405 The uninvited guest. 406 Important service of Major Ed- mund Hyrne, 406 Lieutenant Samuel Seldon, 408 Instance of Tarleton's severity, 409 Additional instance, 409 Attempt of Colonel Forrest to check discontent, and the result, 409 Prayei-s for the King, 411 Epigram, 411 Satirical jeu desprit, 412 Miss Franks, 412 General Lee's letter to Miss Franks, 414 Repartee of Major Upham, 416 Sir Guy Carlton, 417 Captain Milligan, 417 Romantic Enterprise, 419 M'Gill and Van Skiver, 420 Captain Land, 424 Judge Burke, 426 Extraordinary Escape, 426 Sergeant Power, 427 Ladles' petition in behalf of Co- lonel Hayne, 428 Duel between General Cadwal- lader and General Conway, 430 Expulsion of Congress from Phi- ladelphia, 431 Lieutenant Colonel Butler of Morgan's Rifle Regiment, 433 Commodores Affleck and Swee- ney. 434 Reception of General Greene at Philadelphia, 43i Meeting with the Commander in Chief, 436 The effect of Peace on the Sol- diers' consequence in society, 437 Propriety of naming the fami- lies the most distinguished by their revolutionary services, 439 Distinguished individuals, 440 Conclusion, 444 INTRODUCTION. WHILE 1 YET LIVE, LET ME NOT LIVE IN VAIN.'' — AddisOTl. E REE from unwarrantable prejudice, I have invari- ably maintained, that the citizens of America during the war of our Revolution, had exhibited as splendid examples of heroic gallantry, as firm and honourable adherence to the cause of Liberty, as ever adorned the annals of any age or country. If facts sanction this opinion, we cannot but deeply regret, that from the en- croachments of time, perpetually removing, not only the actors in many a brilliant achievement, but even the witnesses of them, they will be in the course of a few years irretrievably lost. To diminish the evil, I have anxiously endeavoured, to engage some youthful patriot, to collect and preserve for the benefit of future generations, as many anecdotes relative to the war of 1776, as appear worthy of record, and particularly, such, as have escaped the attention of historians. — My effort has proved fiuitless, and although I antici- 1 2 INTRODUCTION. pate very partial success, yet confident of meeting the indulsenre of my fellow citizens, who must approve my motive, I have at length resolved, myself to under- tau^ it. To the public I am bound by peculiar ties. In ad- versity they honoured me with their confidence, and re- warded my zeal with distinguished marks of favour, whatever I possess, is derived from their generosity, I feel the obligation in all its force, and know, that death, come when it may, must find my debt of grati- tude uncancelled.* I wish it were possible in pursuing my plan, to ar- range the facts m chronological order, but this I con- sider, from the nature of the work, impracticable, and the reader must therefore receive them, without such connection. The anecdotes are indeed of so diversified a nature, that they ought to appear as they are, inde- pendent of each other. Many are of a serious cast, and can hardly fail to excite corresponding sentiments, and deep reflection, while others detailing sallies of wit, or scenes of mirthful adventure, are fitted only to amuse. In such a work I am bound by a double sense of duty. First to save from oblivion, many acts of cour- * The author cannot sufficiently lament that he had but little share in the achievement of those important events which iixed the independency of the United States. His heart from the earliest dawn of the Revolution was devoted to the cause of his country, and he would have been first in the ranks of her armies but the Revolution found him a youth in Europe, in purs,uit of his Colle- giate studies, and a parent's mandate forbid it. When age permitted his return to America, his fortunes without a murmur were sacrificed to his principles, and his life, to have promoted the interests of America, would have been yielded without a sigh. The public witnessed his zeal and liberally rewarded it. His general gave him his confidence and promotion. His fellow soldiers, what he must ever consider his highest honour; their friendship and esteem. INTRODUCTION. $ age or magnanimity, that honour the patriots of our Re- volution, and secondly to excite in the bosoms of our youth, a laudable desire to emulate them. The spontaneous impulse of every heart is my best auxiliary. How grateful to my 3^ouns countrymen must it be, to read the encomiums bestowed on their ancestors, to dwell on the merits of those great men, who had wisdom to plan the deliverance of the United States from a foreign yoke, resolution to attempt it, and valour to insure their independence. In contem- plating the dignified firmness of their characters, the extent of their sufferings and the splendor of the ac- tions achieved in the accomplishment of their momen- tous undertaking, the heart ex[)ands with gratitude, the soul with admiration. Liberty so honourably gained, appears v^^ith more fascinating charms ; is cherished with imperishable affections, and the bosom of patriot- ism feels with full force, how sacred the obligation to transmit such a blessing, with undiminished lustre, to posterity. It can only be necessary, to present to view the characters whose achievements I would celebrate, *^ And b}^ their light, • Shall every valiant youth with ardour move, To do brave acts." Shakspeare. " For who shall lightly say, — that Fame, Is nothing but an empty name. While in that sound there is a charm, The nerves to brace, the heart to warm. As thinking of the mighty dead, The young from slothful couch shall start, And vow with lifted hands outspread, Like them to act, a noble part." Bailie. 4 INTROtrtlCTlON. I am still further induced to persist in my Undertak- ing, that I may both by precept and example bear tes- timony against a practice, in my judgment, decidedly prejudicial. With such instances of every public and private virtue, as the history of our own country af- fords, I consider it a serious error in our system of education, that our youth receive their ^r5^ ideas of pa- triotic excellence, from the annals of other nations. — Familiar with the achievements of the heroes of an- cient times, the virtues and services of the worthies of their own country, are seldom or but imperfectly known. They will tell you of the retreat of Xeno- phon, before a horde of barbarians, while ignorant of the masterly manoeuvring of Gieene retiring before the superior and victorious army of Cornwallis. — They will dwell with delight on the sufferings, energy, and zeal of the virtuous Alfred, successfully resisting the ravagers of his country ; while the difiiculties and dangers surmounted by the inflexible Marion labouring under tenfold disadvantages, are altogether unknown. They admire Fahius as the shield, Marcellus as the siDord of Rome, but unless it is acquired incidentally, they either know not at all, or very imperfectly, that Washington by his wisdom and discretion in the ca- binet, his skill and valour in the field, may still be more justly called, both the sword and shield of his country. By this injudicious system, a prejudice arises, which from the strength of early impressions, it is ever diffi- cult to shake off. Comparisons are made altogether to the advantage of antiquity, and an ambition to ar- rive at excellence impaired, by a seeming confession of INTRODUCTION. 5 inability to attain it. I rejoice to think that this can* not be an evil of long continuance. The lives of the illustrious patriots of our Revolution, presented to view by the pen of intelligence, a natural consequence must ensue : — They Vvill learn to " hold honour far more dear than life." If candidates foi'/mne, admiring the heroes of Rome^ will they not with greater enthusiasm revere and emulate the valour of their immediate an- cestry ? If the justice and magnanimity of Grecian worthies delight them, it is impossible not to conclude, that these virtues will be aspired to, w^ith still higher admiration, when exemplified in the history of their own country. Agisilaus king of Sparta, being asked, "' what ought children to learn," replied, " that which they ought to practice, when they become men." No sentiment vi^as ever expressed more conformable to the principles of our government. Next to their duty towards God, there is not a parent who ought not to impress upon the minds of his children, the devotion which is due their country ; and how can this be more effectually done, than from the dawn of reason, to keep in their view, those virtues, which have raised the benefactors of the republic, to immortality. It is not my inten- tion to attempt a history of the southern war. In free- ly offering strictures on the mode in which it was con- ducted, opportunity is afforded of attaining the end at which I aim. A delineation of the injustice and op- pression, of wanton insult and ruthless severity, exer- cised on the one part, will afford ample occasion to re- late the firmness with which they were met, and to e INTRODUCTION. detail the animating examples of patient suffering, in- flexible perseverance and intrepidity, by which they were surmounted on the other. In animadverting on^^ the cruelty and impolicy of the measures pursued T shall be led to criticise the conduct of the commanders by whom they were adopted ; and rhis will bring into view, the prominent characters who opposed them. — I would further observe, that as it is my plan to collect Aiiecdotes, I shall not endeavour by indulging fancy, to give them the advantage of attractive dress. I shall studiously aim at simplicity in detail, and laying no claim to originality, be content, if the merit is allowed, of making them useful and acceptable to my country- men. This is the only reward I desire, and it is my trust that I shall receive it. ANECDOTES OP THE mi^olntiornvs ssaa^tr (n nmtvttu MOULTRIE. A HE first conflict of the Carolinians with the ene- my, ^ave such reputation to the character of the coun- try, and was so hi2[;hly creditahle to General Moultrie, who commanded the post attacked on that memorable day,(the28th of Jnne)that it may be considered an act of justice in detailing the Anecdotes of the Revolutionary War, to commence with giving the particulars of the ac- tion. The defence of the pass at Sullivan's Island, may be compared with many of the splendid achievements which Grecian eloquence has rendered illustrious. — Impressed with prejudices as strong as Xerxes ever cherished against Greece, the commanders of the Bri- tish forces approached our coast, not to conciliate, but subdue. Exulting in the supposed superiorty of their discipline and valour, they spoke in the language of authority, and would listen to no terms short of un- conditional submission. They too had been taught by the insinuations of insidious flattery, to entertain a thorough contempt for their enemy, and to brand them a MOULTRIE. with the harshest appellations of infamy and reproach ; and the extraordinary delay of their military operations, can alone be accounted for, by their belief, that it was only necesssary to allow the Americans a sufficient time to reflect on the critical situation in which they were placed, to induce them to abandon the pass with- out a struggle, and seek safety by flight. On the other hand, the gallant Moultrie, commanding a corps, for- midable only by their Jboldness and resolution, impa- tiently waited their approach. He was not insensible of the insufficiency of a work hastily constructed, and in every part incomplete, to afford the shelter requi- site against, a force so formidable as that before him. The advice of the experienced veteran Lee, called for its abandonment.* A necessary supply of ammunition was withheld, but seconding the bolder wishes of Pres- ident Rutledge,t and considering himself pledged to give a proof to the enemy of American valour, he scorned the disgrace of relinquishing the post he had sworn to defend, and heroically prepared for action. — The attatfk was commenced by the British with intre- pidity, and maintained throughout the course of twelve hours, with a gallantry that would have dignified a better cause, but naught could subdue the firmness of the garrison, resolved to repel the foe, or nobly perish, they received the tremendous fire of the shipping with composure, and returned it with terrible effect, till * General Lee styled the post at Sullivan's Island a slaughter pen, denounced its defence, and pronouncing disgrace on the measure, should it be persisted in, earnestly requested the President to order it to be evacuated. t Happily for the nation, its destinies were at that period, guided by that in- flexible patriot John Rutle©ge, who confidently relying on Moultrie, and his intrepid band, heroically replied to Lee, '- That while a soldier remained aJive to defend it, he would never give his sanction to such an order." The result proved the accuracy of his judgment. The following laconic note was at the same time forwarded to Colonel Moultrie. " General Lee wishes you to evacuate the fort. You will not without an order from me. I will sooner cut off my hand than write one. John Rutledge." MOULTRIE. 9 valour accomplished, what prudence had declared im- practicable, and the retreat of the assailants, adorned the brows of every individual concerned, with laurels that can never fade. The subsequent good conduct of General Moultrie, increased his military reputation and secured to him the perfect confidence and respect of his fellow sol- diers, and warm applause of his country. He engag- ed a British force, on Port Royal Island, with brilliant success, and conducted the retreat of a division of the army on the invasion of Provost, with an ability that saved the capital. His correspondence with Lord Charles Montague, while a prisoner at Haddrell's, sufficiently proves the steadiness of his principles and incorruptible integrity. The Eulogy to his memory,* published by order of the State Society of the Cincin- nati, of which he was President, gives ample testimo- ny of the veneration and affection entertained towards him by its members, and as it contains a just estimate of his private virtues as well as of his public utility, will not 1 hope be considered irrelevant, nor prove un- acceptable to tlie admirers of patriotic virtue. EULOGY. The 27th of September, 1805, will long be remem- bered with interest by every virtuous citizen of South Carolina. On that day, deei)ly regretted by every in- dividual who had sense to appreciate, and gratitude to acknowledge the pre-eminence of his patriotic virtues, died, in the seventy-fifth year of his age, the venerable Major General Moultrie, who, by uniform suffrage, had presided over this Society from its first institution. — As a revolutionary character, his steadiness in princi- * Written by the Author. 2 10 MOULTRIE. pie, his valour in the field, were particularly conspi- cuous. As a soldier, it was his fortune to check, and with an effect that paralized every subsequent exertion, the first efforts of a powerful and inveterate foe, for the subjugation of his country. Bold as Leonidas, he defended the strait committed to his charge, against a superior force^ that had been deemed irresistible ; and, more fortunate than the Spartan hero, lived in honour- able old age, under the shade of his laurels, to share with a grateful nation, the liberty his successful exer- tions had so happily contributed to establish. As a patriot it was equally his glory, disdainfully to rv^ject the bribes of a nation, who, repeatedly foiled by his valour, hoped with better success to corrupt this integri- ty, and like another Fabricius to show to the admiring world, how insignificant the power of gold, to shake the principles of a heart, warmed with the genuine glow of heaven-born liberty. In private life, his dis- position was frank, liberal, sincere, his manners sim- ple and conciliating. Duplicity and disguise were odious to a nature fixed on the firmest basis of candour and truth. As a husband, father, master, he was af- fectionate, gentle, most indulgent ; in short, as has been said of a great statesman, and distinguished patriot,, " he was every thing to his family, but what he gave up to his country." When in future ages men shall seek examples of distinguished worth and excellence. Fame with delight, shall tell the unshaken faith, and gallant deeds of Moultrie. While, as brother sol- diers, we offer this sincere, though inadequate tribute of respect to his^ memory, it is with pleasure we re- flect, that the artillery, cav^alry, and several volunteer corps of the city, together with a considerable concourse of the most respectable and patriotic of our citizens, at- tended his body to the grave, testifying their respect for his virtues, and unfeigned sorrow for the event, which deprived his country of one of its most distinguished, and estimable public characters." MOULTRIE. 1 1 The happy escape of the general durins the siege of Charleston, deserves to be recorded. The fatigue ex- perienced by severe duty on the lines, had so much overcome him, that to renew his energies, he took up his quarters for one night, in Elliott's buildings, near the centre of the city, where there was the least chance of interruption, to the rest he sought for. A tremen- dous fire about the dawning of day, roused him from his slumbers, lie started from his bed, and was hurrying on his regimentals, when a shot striking the house, entered the apartment, and lodged in the bed from which he had risen. The delay of a few moments, must have proved fatal to him. The venerable Captain Richard Bahon Baker, now residing on Sullivan's Island, within view of the scene of his early achievements, and Mr. David Adams, of Charleston, who served as a cadet, in the company commanded by Captain Shubrick, alone remain of the intrepid band, who fought under Moultrie, on the memorable 28th of June, 1776. ANECDOTE OF JOHN RUTLEDGE. It was my good fortune, many years after this cele- brated victory, to meet Governor Rutledge on the spot, where the action of the 28th of June was fought, when the recollection of the triumphs of the da}^, filling his soul with enthusiastic delight, he exclaimed : " I re- member the engagement as if it were fought but yes- terday ! 1 remember my perfect confidence in Moultrie ! I have all the scene before me too, when I visited the post, to express the thanks of the country to the heroes who had defended it. There stood Moultrie, there Blotte, there Marion, Horry, and the intrepid band, whom they commanded. I addressed them with an energy of feeling, that I had never before experienced, It MOULTRIE. and if ever I had pretension to eloquence, it was at that moment." I will not dwell on a subject, to which it is impossi- ble for me to do justice, but briefly state, that inspired by it, and animated as if the objects of his commenda- tion were immediately before him, he delivered himself in an eloquent and impressive strain of eulosy, so per- fectly fascinating, that had his first address but borne a shadow of resemblance to it, there could not have been a man among his auditors, who would not have been proud to die, for liberty and his country. I have often heard of the strong impression made at the mo- ment of delivery by this celebrated harangue. Cerraiii it is, that under its animating influence, new honours crowned the valiant defenders of the post, and to the last, the gallant second regiment, were covered with glory. THE SECOND REGIMENT. Proud of the encomiums bestowed on their valour, encouraged by the animating address of the governor, to aim at the achievement of new honours, the feelings of the gallant second regiment, were still more highly excited, when Mrs. Barnaid Elliott, presenting an ele- gant pair of colours, thus addressed them : " Gentlemen Soldiers, " Your gallant behaviour, in defence of your country, entitles you to the highest honours ! Accept of these two standards as a reward justly due to your regiment, and I make not the least doubt, but that under heaven's protection, you will stand by them as long as they can wave in the air of liberty." Her anticipations were fully justified in the sequel. During the assault at Savannah, they were both planted on the British lines. The statement which I am about to give of the event, differs widely from that which has MOULTRIE, \$ been generally received ; but that it is rorrect, cannot be rloubted, as it was afforded me by Lieutenant James Legare, whose services and character, entitle him to all credit. He was present in the action and immedi- art ly in front of the colours at the time that the officers who bore them were killed. Lieutenant Brush, sup- ported by Sergeant Jasper, carried the one, Lieutenant Grey, supported by Serjeant McDonald, the other. Brush being wounded early in the action, delivered his standard to Jasj)er, for its better security, who, already wounded, on receiving a second shot, restored it. Brush at the moment receiving a mortal wound, fell into the ditch, \\ ith the colours under him, which occasioned their remaining in the hands of the enemy. Lieutenant Grey receiving a mortal wound, his colours were seized by MrDonald, who i)lanted them on the redoubt, but on hearing an order to retreat, plucked them up again, aji'i carried them off in safety. It is highly grateful to me, to recollect an occurrence which strongly evinces how deeply the love of coun- try is impressed on the human heart. Meeting an officer in the British service, who was a native of Ca- rolina, in the streets of Edinburgh, shortly after the accounts of Moultrie's gallant defence of his post had reached Europe : He said, as he approached me, " I see trium|)h in your countenance, and do not wonder at it. I cannot but lament that his majesty's fleet has been beaten, but as the event has happened, I rejoice that the victory has been gained by Carolinians,'^^ LETTER FROM LORD C. MONTAGUE TO GENERAL MOULTRIE. "M«rcA 11 Marion was grievously mor- tified by tlie failure of his commissioners ; and feeling great anxiety to move to the lower country, the better 10 protect the families and property of those who had joined him, now left at the mercy of the British, de- termined to meet Ganey personally. Appointing, therefore, the gentlemen of his family as commis- sioners, to aid him in negotiation, Gainey was invited, with such of his associates as he chose to name on his part, to cross the river, under the sacred pledge of protection, and a treaty was speedily perfected, that put a final termination to all opposition in the interior. The basis of this treaty was, that all who wished to join the British standard, were to receive safe conduct for person and property, till arrived within their lines. That all who wished to be reconciled to their country, were to obtain pardon for past ofiences, and be re- ceived as citizens ; and that persons found within the limits of the truce ground, after an appointed day, without having submitted themselves, were to be re- garded as enemies. Ganey removed with those who preferred adhesion to the British ; but, before his departure, said to General Marion — " Honour requires that I should surrender my commission to Colonel Balfour, from whom I received it. But, having done so, I shall immediately return to the country, and seek your protection." He strictly performed his promise ; MARION 27 and it is remarkable, that at Watboo, placed in the ranks with about forty of his men, at the very point on which the British cavalry made their principal attack, greatly contributed to their discomfiture and repulse. Several of General Marion's principal offi- cers were impressed with the opinion, that he had committed his dignity, in personally treating with Ganey, whom they regarded in no better light, than a leader of banditti ; but he silenced their censures, by asserting — " That the only dignity he aspired to, was that of essentially serving his country." About this period the celebrated marauder. Fanning, of North Carolina, arrived in the truce ground. He was a most determined enemy; resolute and san- guinary, and possessed such distinguished talents for j>artisan warfare, that much apprehension was enter- tained, that he would again stir up the spirit of revolt, and induce Ganey to break his engagements. But an end was speedily put to suspense. A flag arriving from him, with a request, that General Marion would grant safe conduct to his wife, and some property, to the Bri- tish garrison, in Charleston. Compliance w^as the im- mediate consequence. Most of the officers believed it bad policy, but the general justified his conduct, by saying : " Let but his wife and property reach the Bri- tish lines, and Fanning will not fail to follow them; but, force them to remain — deny the flag required, and we fix a serpent in our bosoms." Fanning finding no hope of exciting insurrection, fled the country, and was nearly as soon as his wife within the garrison. The general, moving into the truce ground, now busied himself in securing the persons of every individual, who, declining to retire within the British lines, still fused submission to American authority. In the exe- cution of this duty, a hint was given to the general, that irregularities had been indulged that were highly disgraceful to the military character, which occasioned 28 MARION. him, with his usual frankness, to declare, at table, *' I have heard insinuations of conduct exercised, that would disgrace my command ; no regular accusation has been made; but I wish it to be clearly understood, that let officer or soldier be proved guihy of crime, and he shall hang on the next tree." His inflexible firm- ness was known, and not a whisper was ever breathed of further irregularities. The brigade was soon after marched to Watboo; and after having beaten a party of horse, sent from Charleston for the purpose of sur- prising it, remained there till the evacuation of Charles- ton. While the British were preparing for embarka- tion, a party were sent to Lamprier's Point to procure w ater. A hint was given to Marion that this would afford a fair opportunity of inflicting a parting blow: to which he rei)lied — " My brigade is composed of citi- zens, enough of whose blood has already been shed ; if ordered to attack the enemy, I shall obey; but not another drop shall, with my consent, be lost, though it should procure me the greatest honours that, as a sol- dier, I could aspire to. Certain, as I am, that the enemy art^ at the point of departure, so far from offer- ing to molest, I would rather send a party to protect them." Had such been the humane policy of Ko- sciusko, many valuable lives would have been spared, and Wilmott and Moore might, at this day, have lived to add new honours to the annals of their country. Next to Henry Lee, perhaps altogether his equal, no man could be more expert than General Marion, in obtaining information of every movement of the enemy, and anticipating the events that might be expected from their activity and enterprise. He was, when necessary, secret as the grave ; appeared, generally, thoughtful, and was approached by his officers with reverential awe; but when out of reach of the enemy, and at liberty to give indidgence to the natural cheer- fulness of his disposition, he was familiar with his inti- MARION. 29 mates, and the gentlpmeii of his family, even to play- ful i-ss. Ill [)rivate life he was clistin;2;uishpd by the strictest integrity in all his dealings. He was the exe- cutor of" several estates, and guardian of many children. Every duty was performed to perfection. No man lived more beloved — none ever died more universally and justly lamented. I shall close my eulo«;y with one am ("dote, which I consider highly characteristic of his unerring virtue. A friend, to whom he was attach- ed by the warmest affection, who had shared all his dangers, had transgressed the law by refusing to sub- mit to the regular process of justice, hoing, by the interposition of friends, and his high reputation, to escape censure. *' Deliver yourself," said Marion, " into the hands of the sheriff ; submit to be conduct- ed to gaol, and my hand and heart are yours. Refuse to do so, and trust, by the influence of friendship, to elude justice, and the line of separation is for ever drawn betwixt us." Among the companions of Moultrie, I will mention two other individuals, who afterwards were associated in arms with Marion, and, therefore, properly noticed in this place. ^ y COLONEL PETER HORRY. This officer was a descendant of one of the many protestant families who removed to Carolina from France, after the revocation of the edict of Nantz. He early took up arms in defence of his country ; and through all the trials of peril and privation, ex- perienced by Marion's brigade, gave ample proof of g0 HORRY. his strict integrity and undaunted courage. The fame which he acquired, as one of the band of heroes who defended the post at Sullivan's Island, was never tar- nished. For, although in a moment of despondency he once said to his general—" I fear our happy days are all gone by ;" it was not the consequences that might accrue to himself, but the miseries apprehended for his country, that caused the exclamation ; for never were his principles shaken; never, even for a moment, did the thought of submission enter his bosom. No man more eagerly sought the foe ; none braved danger with greater intrepidity, or more stremiously endea- voured to sustain the military reputation of his country. A ludicrous story is told of him, that, though probably varied in the narration, has its foundation in truth. Colonel Horry was once ordered to wait the approach •of a British detachment in ambuscade ; a service he performed with such skill, that he had them com- pletely within his power; when, from a dreadful impediment in his speech, by which he was afBicted, he could not articulate the word — "^re." In vain he made the attempt — it was,j?, fi, fi^ Ji — but he could get no further. At length, irritated almost to madness, he exclaimed — " Skooi, damn you — shoot — you know very well what I would say — shoot, shoot, and be damn'd to you ! ' He was present in every engagement of consequence, and on all occasions increased his reputation. At Quinby, Colonel Baxter, a gallant soldier, possessed of great coolness, and still greater ^imi)licity of character, calling out, " I am wounded, ■colonel !" Horry replied — " Think no more of it, Baxter, but stand to your post." " But, I can't stand, colonel — I am wounded a second time I" " Then lie down, Baxter, but quit not your post." " Colonel," (cried the wounded man) " they have shot me again, and if I remain any longer here, I shall be shot to HORRY. 51 pieces." " Be it so, Baxter, bat stir not." He obeyed the order, and actually received a fourth wound before the engagement ended. COLONEL MAYHAM. If Colonel Mayhain had never rendered any other service in the field, than the judicious invention of the tower, to facilitate the reduction of the posts held by the British, and afterwards distinguished by his name, he would, as a soldier, have been entitled to dis- tinction. But, the fact is, that in no situation did he ever fail to increase his military fame. Expert in stratagem, he was equally alert in enterprise ; and in hardy daring, second to no officer in the service. By the construction of his tower, the British post at Wright's Bluff, which, from its elevated situation, and the want of cannon, had been deemed impregnable, was so completely overtopped, and the American riflemen thereby enabled to fire with such deadly effect, that the besieged dared not show themselves, and were compelled to capitulate and make an imme- diate surrender. Lee saw the advantage accruing from it, and by a similar construction, obtained a superiority over Browne at Augusta, whose activity and resolution, had baffled every previous attempt to injure him. Distinguished throughout the whole of-Marion's campaigns, by his zeal and activity, it was the good fortune of Colonel Mayham, to close his military career by a partisan stroke, greatly to the discomfiture of the enemy, attacking, with invincible imi)eti!osity, a detachment at Monk's Corner, within view of their main army, and carrying off eighty prisoners, without the smallest loss. ft PARTISxiiN COMMANDERS OF MILITIA. GENERAL SUMTER. Ix\ relatiiij^ the military acquirements of Sumter, I should feelingly lament the disasters attendin;^ his early career, had he not, like Antaeus, gathered streni^th from misfortune, and arose after every fall, with reno- vated powers of action. In the school of adversity, he learnt circumspection and was more than once, com- pelled to fi^ht under the greatest disadvantages. He became, ultimately, so guarded in his attention to the security of his camp, and so happy in the choice of his positions, that every attempt to injure him, on the part of the enemy, proved abortive, whilst the enterprizes which he conducted, were, for the most part, produc- tive of the most brilliant success. No man was more indefatigable in his efforts to obtain victory ; none more ready, by the generous exposure of his person, and the anitnating example of intrei)idity, to deserve it. His attacks were iin|>etuous, and generally irre- sistible. He was far less inclined to plan, than to execute; and on many occasions, by an approach to rashness, accomplished what prudence would have forbidden him to attempt. It was his supreme good fortune, to give the first check to the British successes in South Carolina, after the fall of Charleston, by completely routing on the 12th of July, 1780, at VVil- SUMTER. d& iiams' plantation, a maraudini^ detachment of their army, commanded by Cai)tain Huck, a miscreant, who, by his cruelty and profanity, appeared, equally, the enemy of God and man. During his predatory excursions, he had perpetrated every species of bar- barity, and excited the resentments of the inhabitants, still more by his words, than by his actions. With him, the exclamation was common — " God Almighty has turned rebel ; but, had the Americans twenty Gods, instead of one on their side, they should all he conquered." General Sumter's attacks upon the posts of Rocky Mount and Hanging Rock, where, in tlie first instance, ]]e was completely successful, did him great credit ; and could he have restrained the insubordination cha- racteristic of irregular troops, and destroyed their avidity for plunder and liquor, in both instances, his victory must have been complete, fie, shortly after, captured a convoy of stores passing from Ninety-Six to Camden ; but, most unfortunately, encamping within striking distance of the enemy, (now at liberty, by the complete defeat of Gates, to send forth large detachments,) he was attacked by Tarleton, when un- prepared for resistance, and routed, with the loss of many men, and all the prisoners and valuable stores that had recently fallen into his hands. He was next attacked near Broad River by Wemyss, who, calcu- lating on his former inattention to the security of hi^ camp, hoped to surprise him. In his expectati'^ however, he was severely disappointed ; his troc, were repulsed, and himself wounded and taken, li has often been said, and universally believed, that in a pocket-book found on him, was not only an accurate list of the houses he had burnt, but of those also that he intended to destroy. Lord Cornwallis, writing im- mediately after this to Colonel Tarleton, to give energy to pursuit, says — *' I shall be glad to hear that Sumter 5 ^ 31 SUMTEIt. is ill no condition to give us further trouble— he cer- tniuly has been our greatest plague in this country." From a man of Lord Cornwallis' enterprise, such praise was the highest encomium. Tarh^.ton now rapidly advanced, anxious to strike a blow that would annihilate him, before he could cross the Tiger River; and, stimulated by the impetuosity of his temper, attacked his strong position on Blackstock-Hill, with such imprudence, that, after severe loss, both of offi- cers and men, he was compelled to quit the field, leaving his wounded to the mercy of his conqueror. To the credit of Sumter, his attention and humanity to them, has always been acknowledged. To the misfortune of Carolina, a severe wound received in the action, put a stop, for a considerable time, to his brilliant career ; but, he was no sooner able to take the iield, than he again appeared as an active partisan, breaking up the British posts in the lower country. On one occasion. Lieutenant Colonel Hampton, com- manding under him, dispersed a large body of tories near Dorchester. Placed at the head of the light troops, both regulars and militia, Sumter next com- pelled Lieutenant Colonel Coats to destroy his stores at Monk's Corner, and abandon the position, and w^ould have made the entire 19th regiment, com- manded by him, prisoners, had he not, by the rapidity of his flight, passed the bridge at Quinby, and by throwing off the i)lank, prevented pursuit, till he had established himself in a strong position, from wiiich, the want of artillery rendered it impossible to dislodge him. Important services were again performed by him at Eutaw. After which, the enemy retiring within their lines, seldom ventured beyond the gates of Charleston. PICKENS. 35 GENERAL PICKENS. A truer patriot, nor more intrepid soldier than General Pickens, never trod the soil of liberty ; and there are few characters of our Revolution to whom Carolina is more highly indebted. At the commence- ment of the war, great diversity of opinion existed among the inhabitants of the interior country, not only with regard to the practicability, but propriety also, of resisting the power of Britain. Attachment to former prf^judices, and a belief of the perfection of the ancient system, were strong ; and the spirit of op- position, encouraged by the new government, regarded if not unjustifiable, at least, rash and inconsiderate, and leading to consequences the most disastrous to the peace and happiness of the community. The exer- tions of Colonel Pickens, to counteract those fallacious principles, and to induce the inhabitants of his district to adopt opinions similar to those which animated the bosoms of every true friend to his country, were inde- fatigable. He was constantly on the alert ; vigilance, indeed, became indispensible ; for, although the tories would oftentimes show a disposition to temporize, yet it was evident from their murmurings, and secret caballing, that they only waited a favourable oppor- tunity to declare their sentiments, and to engage in open and decided hostility. No sooner, therefore, did the British appear in force in the south, than their smothered resentments burst into flame. Several hun- dreds of them embodied, and committing every spe- cies of depredation on their route, marched forward to join the royal army in Georgia. Colonel Pickens, apprized of their movements, and irritated by their rapacity, pursued them with rapid steps, and over- taking them at Kettle Creek, atracked them so vigo- rously, that in less than an hour, forty of their number, ^ PICKENS. and among them their leader, Boyd, were killed, and ihr rest so rompietely dispersed, as to leave no appre- hension of any further trouble. When Charleston fell, and the victorious Britons spreading: themselves over the country, advanced into the interior, the revived resentments of the royalists, com- pelled Colonel Pickens, and the steady adherents of the cause of freedom, to abandon their habitations and coun- try, and seek for refuge in North Carolina. So soon, however, ns General Greene had taken command of the army, and ordered General Morgan to enter the western division of the state, to check the aggressions of the enemy, and to revive the drooping spirits of the whig in- habitants. Colonel Pickens was found the most active among his associates, seconding his enterprizes, and by gentleness and conciliation, attaching new adherents to the cause. Of his intrepid conduct at the battle of the Cowpens, it is scarcely necessary to speak. It is a Well known fact, that he not only prevailed upon his riflemen to retain their fire till it could be given with deadly effect, but when broken and compelled to re- treat, tliat he rallied them ; and what had never before been effected with militia, brought them a second time to meet their enemy, and by continued exertion, to accomplish their final surrender. Ordered by General Greene, after his retreat into Virginia, to recross the Dan, and, in conjunction with Lee, to check the spirit of revolt which had manifested itself in many parts of North Carolina, he aided, effec- tually, the infliction of that salutary punishment which rendered abortive every future effort of Lord Corn- wallis to bring recruits to he royal standard. When the British were subsequently compelled to retreat to Wilmington, and General Greene resolved to rettn*n to South Carolina, Pickens, now a brigadier, was directed to precede him, and to collect the militia of his brigade, and particularly to prevent supplies PICKENS. SI from being thrown into the garrisons of Ninety-Six, and Augusta. This service was effectually performed, and being joined by Lee, the combined force sat down before Augusta. Greater skill in defence, nor more intrepid resistance, was never shown than by Colonel Browne, which cannot but enhance the glory of the com- manders who compelled him to surrender. At the bat- tle of Eutaw, where he was wounded, he acquired additional glory; and finally, completed his military achievements, by conducting an expedition, in 1782, against the Cherokee nation with such decided effect, that, with the utmost humility, they solicited peace, and promised never again to rise in opposition to our government. GENERAL DAVIE. At the commencement of the Revolutionary War General Davie was a student at Princeton College, and feeling a strong desire to encounter the dangers of the field, marched as sergeant of a company of his associates, who had embodied themselves contrary to the wishes of their tutors, to join a detachment of the army stationed at Elizabethtown. How long these patriotic enthusiasts remained together is uncertain ; but becoming disgusted more with the fatigues than the dangers of service, they justified the prognostic of Dr. Witherspoon, and gradually returned to their studies. When they first left the college the faculty spoke of expulsion, and other punishments, as the merited reward of disobedience. Dr. Witherspoon simply said, — "Let them alone; opposition to their purposes will only increase their desire to adhere to 38 DAVIE. them ; exposure to the fatigues of service will effect all that you desire ; it will not be long before we have them all back again." Young Davie, and one other student named Brown, remained with the army. Kis taste for a military life was now confirmed ; and we find him at the battle of Stono, as Brigade Major of cavalry, covering the retreat of Lincoln's army, and immediately afterwards an inmate of the hospital, se- verely wounded. He has often mentioned to a friend, an occurrence that plainly shows, how deplorable the situation of the continental army must have been with respect to the essential comforts which were never want- ing to tlie British. Thrown into a stupor by the loss of blood, and the agony of his wound, the poor young soldier, on the recovery of his senses, found that his shirt had been stripped from his back to make ban- dages for the wounded who surrounded him, and having no change to replace it, acknowledged that, for a time, he felt all the pains of the most perfect despon- -denc3\ At the period of Gates' defeat his zeal and activity had advanced him to the command of a legionary corjis of militia. He was on detachment at the moment of defeat, but hastening forward as soon as he was informed of it, he was essentially service- able, not only in preventing pursuit, but in recapturing several wagons, one of which, most fortunately, con- tained the hospital medicine chest. Convinced that the enemy would anxiously seek and strike at Sumter, he, with laudable zeal, immediately despatched a con- fidential soldier with int'^lligence of the disaster, and then reluctantly retired. He had previously, under the command of Sumter, fought both at Hanging Rock and Rocky Mount. At the first he cut off three com- panies of Bryan's regiment, took sixty horses and one Innidred rifles and muskets ; at the last, by a well directed charge, made great havoc among the loyalists, -and had not some liquor, found in the enemy's camp, DAVIE. 59 been too attractive^ would have enjoyed a complete vic- tory; but intoxication destroyed subordination, and every advantage was lost. After the battle of Camden his force, consisting of about two hundred men, was actively employed in repelling predatory excursions, in harassing the enemy, and cutting off their supplies. Provisions were scarce in the British camp, and Lord Cornwallis was compelled to send out large detach- ments to procure them. One of these, stationed at Wahab's plantation, was struck at by Davie, and with comi)lete success. Sixty of the enemy were left on the ground; ninety-six horses, with their equipments, and one hundred and twenty stand of arms, were taken, with the loss of but one man. Being now closely pressed, he retired to Charlotte, and joined by Majpr Grahame, made a stand that entitles him to the most exalted praise. Twice he repulsed the British legion, with considerable slaughter, and it was not till his flank was gained, and a third charge made under the influence of an animating address by Lord Cornwallis himself, that he relinquished his post, retiring without loss to Salisbury. General Davie was not only distin- guished as an intelligent, but as an intrepid soldier. His delight was to lead a charge ; and possessing great bodily strength, united with uncommon activity, is said to have overcome more men, in i)ersonal conflict, than any individual in the service. His knowledge of the country, and of its resources, induced General Greene, when pressed by the greatest diiiiculties, to intrust him with the charge of the quarter master general's depart- ment. He afterwards employed him as a negotiator with the legislature of North Carolina for supplies of men, the more effectually to resist the enemy, whose strength had increased by the arrival of three regiments from Ireland. In both these capacities he acquitted himself with consummate ability, and to the entire satisfaction of his general. 46 DAVIE. I do not think that I could find a bettter opportunrty, than in this place, to point out the advantages of disci- pline. It may be remembered, that at the batrle of Guilford, two North Carolina battalions of militia, ad- vantageously posted behind a rail fence, were assured by General Greene, that if they would only preserve their station long enough to give their enemy two fires, they should obtain his free permission to retire from the field. They readily promised obedience, but the formidable whiskered Hessians, and athletic Guards, advancing with rapid motion, their courage forsook them, and they retired without firing a shot. As a. punishment for their scandalous misconduct, they were, in compliance with the requisition made by General Greene, through the medium of Davie, placed under continental officers, and sentenced to serve for eighteen months in the ranks. The regularity of discipline soon taught them self-confidence ; they actually panted for renown, and behaved with such gallantry at Eutaw, that of three hundred of their number that entered into the action, one hundred and ninety remained, at its conclusion, either killed or wounded on the field. I had written this short sketch of the character and achievements (5f General Davie, when a packet was delivered to me from a friend in the interior country, above all other men qualified, from strict intimacy and just admiration of his talents and virtues, to furnish me with the information respecting him, that I required. To my readers I am confident I cannot offer too many particulars relative to a patriot who lived so much be- loved — who died so universally lamented. And it w^ould be an injustice to the friend, to whose commu-. nication I feel myself in the highest degree indebted, to make the communication in any other than his own words. DAVIE. 41 " At the bar, Colonel Davie soon rose to great emi- nence ; and indeed, in a few years, became one of its principal leaders and ornaments. He was possessed of great sagacity, profound knowledge, and masculine eloquence. His manners were conciliatory, but im- posing and even commanding. The late Alfred Moore, who was afterwards one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States, and who was a very able lawyer, as well as an excellent man, was the intimate friend of Colonel Davie, and his rival, in their honour- able career at the bar. Their practice and their labours were immense, and both made independent- fortunes. *' Colonel Davie was appointed by the Legislature of North Carolina, to represent that respectable state in the Convention, called at Philadelphia, in the year 1787, to deliberate on the national en)barrassments, and to form a national government, in order to correct the evils of a very loose confederation, and of a mise- rably week and inetiicient government. " Being, at that time, a young man, he did not take a prominent part in the discussion which resulted in the formation of that constitution, which has been so severely tested, and found to be so admirably adapted to the government of our country. But, he there learnt the true foundations on which the government was laid, and the solid arguments in su|)port of it- "His name does not appear to that great instru- ment; the illness of his family having called him home belbre the labours of the Convention were concluded. But, when the constitution was submitted to the judg- ment of the State Convention in North Carolina, for adoption, he stood iorth its most able champion, and its most ardent supporter. " The University of North Carolina, is mainly in- debted to his exertions, and to his labours, for its establishment, and for the assignment of permanent 6 40 DAVIE. landed property for its support. Colonel Davie was extremely anxious upon this subject, and exerted the utmost powers of his persuasive and commanding eloquence, to ensure success. He was deeply sensible of the extreme importance of extending, as widely as possible, the advantages of liberal education, that there might be a perpetual succession of enlightened and liberal men, qualified to administer the afl'airs of this great and increasing people with wisdom and dignity. He considered the public liberty insecure, and liable to be disturbed by perpetual factions, unless education be widely diffused. " Colonel Davie was now appointed a Major Genera! in the militia of North Carolina ; and some time after, in the 5^ear 1799, was elected Governor of that State; the duties of which station, he performed with his accustomed firmness and wisdom. He was not, how- ever, permitted to remain long in that station. His country had higher claims on his talents and services. " The venerable Mr. Adams, then President of the United States, anxious to make one more effort to put an end to the differences which subsisted between this country and France, associated General Davie with Mr. Ellsworth and Mr. Murray, as his Ambassadors in a mission to France, for that purpose. These gentle- men, on their arrival in France, found the tyrannical and corrupt government of the Directory, which had behaved so haughtily to General Pinckney and his colleagues, overturned by Buonaparte; who, though exercising more despotic powers than his predecessors, was, at that time, desirous to conciliate the United States. Commissioners were appointed to discuss the subjects of dispute, and their deliberations ended in a convention, which healed the breach, and saved the United States from being dragged into the vortex of European quarrels. DAVIE. 43 '• General Davie always represented to his friends, Joseph Buonaparte, the ex-king of Naples and of Spain, then a minister in France, (now resident in the United States) as the person who, of all others con- nected with the French government, behaved most uniformly with liberality, disinterestedness and respect to the American commissioners. That gentleman, accordingly, always stood high in his esteem. Ma- dame de Stael tendered civilities to the Commissioners, which it was deemed expedient to decline, that lady being then in disgrace with Buonaparte. *' It was impossible, for a man of General Davie's profound observation, to be in France, and to witness, for a considerable time, the workings of powerful minds in that agitated country, then just emerging from the most ferocious and bloody despotism of the mob, and tending to a more regular despotism of a single ruler, less bloody, but not less oppressive, with- out closely examining the state of public feeling, and acquiring an intimate knowledge of many of the prin- cipal actors in those eventful scenes. Of the history, character, and political connexions of many of those actors, he condensed the information he had collected, into short sketches, which were afterwards preserved and brought to this country. He saw and deplored, that the French Revolution could not terminate in the establishment of rational liberty and regulated autho- rity ; efficient only to all useful purposes, but powerless for all mischief. He saw, that each succeeding fac- tion which acquired the supreme power, exercised it despotically, and with no other view, than to establish its own authority permanently, and without any regard to the rights of the citizen, the legitimate end of all government. *' Upon this subject, his conversation was always deeply interesting ; and he endeavoured to impress 44 DAVIE. upon all Americans, but chiefly upon young men of ardent minds, and promising talents, tlie vast impor- tance of moderation and toleration in republican gov- ernments ; without which, they can scarcely hoi)e to escape the snares of ambitious demagogues, and the ruin of violent dissentions. " General Davie contemplated thecharacter of Bou- naparte with great attention. He saw him often, and conversed with him freely. He considered him a man of first rate talents as a warrior, and of great reach as a statesman. But he regarded him also, as a man of unbounded ambition, restrained by no principles human or divine. On one occasion, after an interesting con- versation, Bounaparte concluded by saying, that he considered power as the only foundation of right ; *' Enfiu Monsieur la force est droit.'^^ General Davie's opinion of him was afterwards verified by his assump- tion of imperial and despotic power. *' Soon after his return to America General Davie lost his wife, a lady of lofty mind and exemplary virtues, to whom he was greatly attached : and not long after he took the resolution to retire from public life, and to become a farmer on his own line estate at Tivoli, beautifully situated on the Catawba river, in Chester District, South Carolina. As a farmer he was active and intelligent, and endeavoured to improve the system of aij;riculture by the use of manures, rotation of crops, and rest to the land. He deplored the slovenly and wasteful system of farming in use throughout the Southern States, which exhausts the soil without re- turning any thing to it. On the formation of an Agri- cultural Society at Cohmibia, he was appointed the Prt^sident, and delivered a discourse, which for purity of style, sound observation, and clear exposition of the proper course of agriculture for this country, has never DAVIE. 45 been excelled. It was admired equally by the scholar and the farmer.* " Some years after General Davie's retreat to his farm, the belligerent governments of France and Eng- land, which had each endeavoured to draw our nation into their quarrel as a party, multiplied their aggres- sions on the commerce of the United States to such an extent, as furnished just cause of war against both ; and it was even st^iously proposed in Congress to declare war against both. But as that would have been an unwise exposure of the commerce of the country to the rapacity of both nations, it was abandoned; not, how- ever, without strong declarations that the conduct of France and England gave us the right to choose our enemy. That choice was made, and it fell upon Great Britain, equally unjust with France in her conduct to our commerce, and coming more in collision with the personal feelings of American citizens, by her practice of impressing them into her naval service. In the formation of the army necessary for the defence of the country, on this emergency, the government, putting aside party distinctions, selected General Davie as one of the officers most fit to be entrusted with a high com- mand. This was flattering to his military pride, and he would have been delighted to have rendered service to his country, in this his favourite profession. For though not entirely satisfied with all the measures of the administration, he felt that, as a citizen, he was bound to defend the country whenever it was in daniier, however brought on it. But his increas- ing infirmities admonished him not to assume duties beyond his strength, which might prejudice the ser- vice, instead of promoting it. The wounds received in the Revolutionary War, and the rheumatism which, * The address is nrinted in the 1st volume of the American Farmer, for the year 1819, pages 217—225. 46 i^A^^E. from long exposure during his service, became fixed on his constitution, rendered him incapable of those active exertions which his high sense of duty would have exacted from him as a commander. He, therefore, declined the honour offered him after a good deal of hesitation. But it is believed that he had several com- munications with the government upon subjects con- nected with the organization of the army, as to which his opinion was consulted ; and the results of his expe- rience and military knowledge were freely commu- nicated. " General Davie continued to reside at his beautiful seat, on the banks of the Catawba, to which travellers and visitors were constantly attracted by his open hos- pitality, his dignified manners, and elevated character. Occasionally he made excursions to the Warm Springs, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, for relief from the harassing rheumatism, which afHictt'd and wasted him. On those visits he was always greatly admired by the intelligent strangers who visited that place of resort from all the Southern and South-western States. The affability of his deportment gave easy access to all. But no person approached him, however distin- guished by his talents or character, who did not spee- dily feel that he was in the presence of a very superior man. His great and varied information, combined with his profound knowledge of men and things, made him the most interesting of companions. The ignorant and the learned, the weak and the wise, were all in- structed and delighted with his conversation, which had an irresistible charm for all. Although no man spoke more plainly his opinions and sentiments on pro- per occasions, he had the art of never giving offence. For, like the immortal Washington, " he was always covered with the mantle of discretion;" a happy ex- pression used by the late Mr. Ralph Izard, formerly a Senator in Congress from this state, and who served DAVIE. 47 six years during President Washington's administra- tion, knew him perfectly, and venerated him next to the Deity. " At home, and in his own neighbourhood, General Davie was revered with the highest filial piety. He was the friend of the distressed, the safe counsellor of the embarrassed, and the peace maker of all. His own character, free from every spot or stain, gave a power to his interpositions, which was irresistible. *' General Davie had a deep, and even an awful sense of God and his Providence ; and was attached to the principles and doctrines of Christianit3^ But, he had not attached himself, as an avowed member to any particular sect. He thought they generally dogma- tized too much, and shut the door of Christian charity too closely. He devised a proper site on his estate for the erection of a place of worship, to be erected by any Christian Society, which should choose to put up a suitable building thereon. " He was a tall man, of fine proportions ; his figure erect and commanding ; his countenance possessing great expression ; and his voice full and energetic. Indeed, his whole appearance struck the beholder at once, as indicating no ordinary man ; and the reality exceeded the appearance. *' Such was the man who has been taken from his afflicted family, his friends, and his country. He met death with the firmness of a soldier, and of a man conscious of a life well spent. His memory is che- rished by his family and friends, with the most enthu- siastic attachment. The good he did survives him ; and he has left a noble example to the youth of his country, to encourage and to stimulate them in the honourable career of virtue and of exertion. May it be appreciated and followed." 48 BARNWELL. BARNWELL. No officer in the service, more resolved from prin- ciple, more anxious from patriotic entliusiasm. ste|»[)ed forward to encounter all the dangers and difficulties of the field, while the freedom of his country was at stake, than General Barnwell. At the commencement of the war, he commanded a company in tiie first Continental regiment of South Carolina ; but, garrison and camp duty being less con- genial to his disi)osition than i)artisan enterprise, he speedily quitted the regular, and received promotion in the militia service, as a Major of cavalry. I have not been able to ascertain with accuracy, the time, or the particidars of an expedition, conducted by him at a very early period of the contest ; but con- fidently assert, that a large and acceptable supply of powder was captured by him, and safely conveyed to the public stores. At the battle of Port-Royal Island, he commanded, under the orders of General Moultrie, a small body of horse, and by throwing himself, during the engage- ment, into the rear of the enemy, greatly contributed to their defeat ; taking many prisoners, and striking such a panic, that sauve qui pent became the general pass-word among the disorderly ranks, and the reco- very of their boats the universal aim. His conduct, during the invasion of Provost, enti- tles him to the highest honour. In watching the movements of the enemy, i)rocuring intelligence, cut- ting off stragglers, and detached parties from the army, he was pre-eminently useful. While Colonel Laurens, with a trifling command^ was disputing the pass at Coosawhatehie, against the entire British army, Major Barnwell, having no field BARNWELL. for action, remained at the head of the causeway that led to it ; but, rendered him essential service, by send- ing to his aid, two volunteers of his corps, Mr. John Cuthbert, (since, General Cuthbert,) and Charles Freer, (at a subsequent period a Captain in the service) whose activity, in conveying his orders, and fearless exposure of their persons, gave animation to the ex- ertions of a militia force, that had never before encountered an enemy. Soon as Laurens was ordered to retire. Major Barnwell, with alacrity, joined the army under General Moultrie, at Tulafinny-Hill, persuaded that so commanding a situation might in- sure effectual resistance ; or, in the event of discom- fiture, cause such a check to be given to the progress of the invaders, as to prevent their nearer approach to the capital. He considered retreat, as pregnant with the most disastrous consequences ; and the loss of a battle, far less injurious, than the abandonment of the country. The event justified his opinion ; for, by the time that the retiring army had crossed the Saltketcher River, the southern militia had dispersed almost to a man. The terror excited by the Indians, who wore their war dresses, and wantonly displayed the instruments of torture, with which they were accus- tomed to aggravate the sufl^erings of their prisoners, created the most appalling dismay. Whigs, of un- questionable patriotism, who would cheerfully have risked their lives in action, and used their utmost energies to have repelled the enemy, soon as retreat was commanded, sought their homes, choosing rather to perish with their families, or slselter them from dan- ger by submission, than leave them exposed to the depredations of a ruffian banditti, led by M'Girth, and of savages, whose cherished object was to plun- der, and destroy. It w^as at this disastrous period that many individuals, surprised in their habitations, and bewildered by their fears, sought and obtained 7 50 BARNWELL. British protections. Fatal, indeed, was their derelic- tion of duty, since left by the speedy and preci|.itate retreat of the invading army, to be reproached by their exasperated countrymen, for their weakness, and subjected to penalties very strongly indicating their abhorrence of it.* It was then, that Major Barnwell, rising in his place on the floor of the Legislature, moved — " That to obliten:te all unpleasant recollections, an act of am- nesty for all w ho had transgressed, should be imme- diately passed." His proposition met with pointed, and even harsh animadversion ; and Mr. Thomas Ferguson, a distinguished patriot, exclaimed — *' Had you not. Major Barnwell, recently shown by your activity in the field, your perfect devotion to the cause of your country, I should not hesitate to pronounce you a traitor." Similar invective was used by other members ; when, finding conciliatory measures too unpopular to meet success, he turned with composure to his opponents, and said — " The danger which drove the unfortunates, in whose behalf I would plead for mercy, has never been brought to your own doors. Remember, that when it does reach you, that you swerve not from duty, nor forget the opinions you now support. From you^ gentlemen, 1 shall, on every fu- * I know an instance of a gentleman of exemplary firmness of character, who, being upbraided for a departure from principle, because he had sought his home to share the fate of his family; said, " I would never have quitted the army, had the apprehension been removed from my mind, of the horrors •which my wife and children were likely to experience from the ferocity of the savages. As the war advances, the opportunity may still be mine, to show my perfect devotion to my country." His conduct at the siege of Charleston, was exemplary. He was an inmate of the prison ships, and one of the inflexible patriots, who, preferring death to submission, requested Gen ral Greene, without regard to their situation, to avenge the death of Colonel Hayne. The promises and threats of the enemy, were equally held in contempt; and he remained unshaken in his principles, to the conclusion of the war. BARNWELL. 51 ture occasion, look for unshaken firmness, and exem- plary intrepiHity." When, in after times, he found in the list of men soliciting British favour, the names of several who had affected to question his sincerity, it is not to be wondered at, that he gave indulgence to his resentments ; and that he never failed, as often as they presented petitions to the Legislature, to have the penalties imposed on their misconduct, remitted, and memory of their political errors forgotten, to op- pose them with the expression of the most marked indignation. I have always considered it a misfortime to this country, that his strictness in command, and unremitted efforts to render the militia as submissive to discipline as regular soldiers, rendered him so un- popular in his brigade, when advanced to the com- mand of the Southern Divisionof the State, as to induce him, rather than give an excuse for non-performance of duty, to retire from active service. It is but too true, that great irregularities had been tolerated, by commanders more disposed to temporize than offend, and that the honour of the country required that they should be effectually checked. The resources of the state, for the maintenance of the army, were wan- tonly wasted, and the rights of property violated with impunity. A destructiv^e system beyond question ; but the curb which he wished to impose on licentiousness, was too suddenly applied, and too imperious. By the failure of the attempt, the service lost an officer of experience, whose courage, often tested in the field, gave invariably increase to his reputation, and the example of steady integrity and perseverence, that, imitated, could only have added to the respectability of the Republican character. But, though stern his re- sentments, against all who, regardless of their plighted faith to their country, sought favour with the British, and accepted their protection — to such as openly es- poused their cause at the commencement of hostilities. 52 BARNWELL. he betrayed no symptom of inveteracy ; more espe- cially, if from a conviction of error, they expressed a desire to join and support the standard of their country. A very singular occurrence w^ill amply prove this. Two brothers had embraced opposite opinions. The one was a decided Royalist — the other a professed Whig. In the eventful occurrences which attended the progress of the war, the first became a British Commissary, and in the hour of success, pressed six barrels of rice from his brother's plantation ; who, yielding to the storm, and convinced that the resources of America w^ere inadequate to effectual resistance, had become a strenuous admirer of kingly govern- ment. The successes of Greene, however, very speedily cheeked his enthusiasm ; and taking the benefit of Governor Matthews' tender of pardon, he was again enrolled in the ranks of our armies. The Commissary, who had sufficiently witnessed the irre- gularities of the British, and frequent desertion of their adherents, about the same period made a confes- sion of error, and was, by General Barnwell, admitted to all the privileges of citizenship. Peace being shortly after restored: the Whig wrote to his brother, re- minding him of the impressed rice, and demanding payment for it, concluding with a threat, that in case of refusal, a suit would be immediately instituted for the recovery of the amount. General Barnwell's in- terposition was instantaniously solicited, to save from ruin. One suit decided against him, would be the prelude to many; and the Commissary easily per- ceived, that the force of political prejudice, would prove him, on all occasions, an oppressor. Fortu- nately, the General had been looking over the papers of Colonel Lechmere, who had been made a prisoner at Pocotaligo, when commanding the district for the British, and found among them, from the professor of chaste principles, a letter to this purport — " I am BARNWELL. 53 solicitous, my dear Colonel, to show my zeal as a Loyalist — my devotion to the best of Kings. I am no soldier ; but, as a ma2;istrate, would ardently pro- mote the good cause. Put me, I beseech you, on the list of Justices of the Peace, for here, I most solemnly aver, that the extinction of rebellion, and restoration of his Majesty's happy government, is to me, as a re- surrection from the dead." " Send your brother a copy of this epistle," said General Barnwell, '' and assure him' from me, that the commencement of his threatened suit, shall be the signal to give it publicity." It is scarcely necessary to state, that the tranquillity of the Commissary was never again disturbed. To the liberality of General Barnwell, many officers who held commissions under the Ptoyal Government, were indebted for the support of their petitions, to become citizens of the United States. And from some of them, particularly Mr. George Roiipell, the penalties of banishment, and every disqualification removed, even witliout an application for relief. At the head of the list of voluntary martyrs, signing the requisition to General Greene, not to suffer any consideration relative to their safety to impede the ful- filment of his threat, to revenge the murder of Colonel Hayne, by retaliation on a British ofiicer of equal rank, will be found the names of John, Edivard and JRobert Barmvell, alike distinguished by the steadiness of their principles, and exemplary intrepidity during the most trying scenes of the war. The last, after receiving seventeen wounds, was h^ft as d'^ad on tlie fit^d. but sought for, and conveyed to a neighbouring plantation, recovered.* * The life of Mr. Robert Barnwell .was saved by the affectionate and assi- duous attention of his reietive, Miss IMaiy Anna Gibbes, (the sani.e who rescued from danger her infant cousin, Fenwick, as will hereafter be related) When considered by all around him beyond the reach of mortal aid, she steadily persisted to bathe and dress his wounds, till exhausted nature recovered its faculties, and gave animation to his apparently lifeJess corpse. 54 BARNWELL. Turning his attention more particularly to literary pursuits, he appeared in the Legislative Councils of the State, and on the floor of Congress, with distinguished credit both to himself and his country. Nor will I neglect to mention the name of their nephew, William Elliott, who, though but a youth, after being severely wounded, was equally, with themselves, resolute to devote himself to his country, by signing the requisition to General Greene, so highly characteristic of patriotic enthusiasm. DISTINGUISHED CONTINENTAL OFFICERS. Having endeavoured, with strict observance of truth, to detail the services of Mouhrie, and briefly sketched the characters and achievements of the Partisan Commanders of Milhia, who attained the highest celebrity, I turn, with peculiar interest, to the Officers of the Continental Line, the most distinguished in the annals of the Southern War ; beginning with those, who, by their talents and in- trepidity, so happily seconded the enterprise, and indefatigable exertions of Greene, till the expulsion of enemy gave a stamp of excellence to his military character, that must for ever excite the applause and admiration of posterity. ISAAC HUGER. Among the patriots of South Carolina, the Hugers were highly distinguished. Daniel was long a mem- ber of Congress. John, an able and industrious assist- ant in the state councils. Francis was numbered among the brave defenders of the pass at Sullivan's Island, when assailed by the British fleet. Benjaminy a soldier of the highest promise, closed a life of honour on the field, falling before the lines of Charleston, during the invasion of Provost. Isaac, of whom I would more particularly speak, as a bold and enter- prising commander, was pre-eminently distinguished. The cloud of misfortune did, it must be acknowledged, (at one period obscure his fame; the disastrous sur- prise of Monk's Corner was highly injurious to his 56 HUGER. military reputation. But when it is recollected how extremely difficult the task to keep alive the vigilance essential to security, amonji? troops newly initiated in military service, and how frequently the most judicious arrangements of the commanders of detachments are thwarted by the negligence of the patrols and videttes, whose unremitted attention alone counteract the ener- gies of an enterprising enemy, we cannot too harshly blame an officer for a single disaster, who, taught by' misfortune, never a second time experienced discom- fiture; and who, in every subsequent rencounter with the British army, by his zeal and intrepidity, acquired increase of reputation. At the commencement of the war General Fluger was commissioned as Lieutenant Colonel of the 1st Continental Regiment, and shortly after promoted to the command of the 5th. There wasnobattle of con- sequence fought in which he was not engaged, display- ing, on every occasion, great coolness, and invincible resolution. How highly he possessed the confidence of General Greene, is manifested by the trust reposed in him by that distinguished officer, when he was anxious to afford his personal aid to Morgan, who was endeavouring to elude the eager pursuit of Lord Corn- wallis, and to conduct the prisoners taken at the Cow- pens to a i)lace of security. He committed the charge of the main army to General Huger, ordering him to conduct its retreat, and to join him at Guilford Court- House. Accompanied by a small escort of dragoons, General Greene then set out in search of Morgan, and happily joined him in safety. That Huger's conduct, on this occasion, was highly approved cannot be doubted, since we find him at the battle of Guilford, which immediately followed, intrusted with the com- mand of the Continental Line. Here, supporting his character for exemplary bravery, he was severely woi^nded. At Hobkirk's Hill, he commanded the HUGER. 67 right wing of the army, and had made considerable impression on the line of the enemy, when an unfor- tunate movement, which threw Gunby's regiment into confusion, disconcerted all the measures of General Greene, and compelled him to relinquish a victory within his grasp, for a retreat, which, though not dis- graceful, was necessarily attended with the deepest and most poignant mortification. The exertions of General Huger, in endeavouring to inspire courage by example, and to restore the order that had been lost, brought him so frequently to the muzzles of the ene- my's muskets, that it was considered by all miracu- lous, that he escaped without injury. The abandon- ment of the interior country, by Lord Rawdon, very soon after this, allowed the General the happiness of embracing his family, from which he had been long separated. When General Greene was presented to them, he, with much emotion, said—*' I would never, my dear Huger, have exposed you, as often as I have done, to bear the brunt of battle, and varied dangers of the field, had I known how numerous and lovely a family, were dependant on your protection." GENERAL MORGAN. This distinguished officer commenced his military career under General Braddock, but, in so inferior a station, as to have been subjected to corporal punish- ment for some unguarded expressions towards a supe- rior. It is painful to mention such a circumstance ; and I should not have done it, had it not been recorded to his honour, that, incapable of entertaining lasting resentments, he had been distinguished, during the 8 ^ MORGAN. Revolutionary War, by the generous attention paid to every British officer who became his prisoner. Com- manding a rifle company before Quebec, he was directed, under Arnold, to attack the lower town ; and on the retirement of that officer, when wounded, taking the van of the assailing column, carried the first and second barriers. He even penetrated into the upper town, and was in possession of the main guard, giving paroles to the officers who surrendered, when, every prospect of success being baffled by the fall of MontgoQiery, and the enemy enabled to tura their entire force against him, he was surrounded and taken. His bravery well known, and his activity justly appreciated, an attempt was made by an officer of rank in the British service, to induce him, by the tender of wealth and promotion, to join the royal standard ; but, with the true spirit of Republican vir- tue, he rejected the proposition, requesting the temp- ter — *' Never again to insult him by an offer, which plainly implied, that he thought him a villain." Advanced to the command of a regiment, his inde- fatigable activity greatly contributed to the capture of Burgoyne, being regarded, according to the repeated declarations of the enemy, as their greatest scourge. General Gates considered it as an offence never to be forgiven, that Morgan had peremptorily refused to coimtenance the intrigues that were to remove the Commander in Chief, and to place him at the head of the army. He, therefore, never in the slightest degree mentioned his meritorious services in his official des- patches, and appeared to exalt the claims of other officers to a|)plause, the more certainly to mortify Morgan. Such malice, however, availed not to de- prive him of his full share of glory. His country acknowledged the legitimacy of his title to fame ; and the captive General declared, in allusion to the i>ar- ticular nature of the service in wtiich he was employed, MORGAN. 69 " That he commanded the finest corps in the world." His advancement to still higher command, gave in- crease to his reputation ; and so long as the heart is susceptible of patriotic feeling, and capable of acknow- ledging, with gratitude, one of the most splendid and momentous achievements that was ever accomplished, thebatth' of the Cowpens will raise the heroic gallan- try of Morgan to the highest pinnacle of Fame. GENERAL OTHO HOLLAND WILLIAMS, OF MARYLAND. He was no less distinguished by the elegance of his manners, and politeness in private society, than by his chivalrous enterprise and exemplary constancy in the field. The services which he rendered as Adjutant General, in perfecting discipline and directing the manoeuvrings of the light troops, covering the retreat of the army till the accomplishment of the memorable passage of the Dan, cannot be too highly estimated. Possessing the most perfect self-command, he put nothing at hazard, and frequently suffered the oppor- tunity to escape, of acquiring advantages, which would have increased his own fame, rather than to risk, what might in its result, prove injurious to his coun- try. Confining my observations to his conduct in the Southern War, it is due to his merit to say, that after the defeat of the army at Camden, and its abandon- ment by Gates, he conducted it to a place of security. His country is likewise indebted to him, for his judi- cious conduct in the retreat over the Dan, already alluded to, and for his exemplary intrepidity in the battles of Guilford, Hobkirk's Hill, and Eutaws. iSo 60 ' WILLIAMS. close was the pursuit maintained by Lord Cornwallis, that the officers of the cavahy covering the rear, to relieve their hunger, have often, while holding the bridle with one hand, attempted to roast a piece of bacon, stuck on the point of a stick, with the other, and been obliged to eat it when scarcely warmed through, compelled, by the rapid approach of the enemy, to mount and retire. The character of General Williams may be drawn in a few words. In the field, he exercised caution, united with invincible intrepidity ; in camp, the strictest discipline. In the cabinet, he distinguished himself by his perspicuity and profound intelligence — qualifications which se- cured to him, the confidence of his General, the esteem of his brother officers, and the love and respect of the soldiers he commanded. JOHN EAGER HOWARD, OF MARYLAND. No man possessed, in a higher degree, the confidence? of General Greene — none better deserved it. He had every requisite for the perfection of the military cha- racter — patience, judgment, intrepidity, and decision. To his memorable charge with the bayonet at the Cowpens, so nobly supported by Washington and his cavalry, that important victory is chiefly to be attri- buted. Nor do I regard his gallantry less worthy of admiration, when, at the battle of Guilford, following up the blow inflicted by Washington, he charged the second battalion of the British Guards, and nearly annihilated them. At Hobkirk's Hill, his effi^rts to rally the broken regiment of Gunby, did him high HOWARD. 61 honour ; nor did the bitterness of grief ever pervade the human bosom more keenly, than in his, when he found all his exertions to revive the courage of men, who, on every former occasion, were distinguished for intrepidity, was unproductive of the slightest effect. At Eutaw, he was severely wounded, but not till he had seen his regiment retrieve its tarnished reputation, and triumphantly drive the enemy before them. In concluding my encomiums on his merits, I do not con- sider it an exaggeration to say, in the words of Gen- eral Greene — " Howard is as good an officer as the world affords, and deserves a statue of gold, no less than the Roman and Grecian heroes." COLONEL CARRLNGTON, OF VIRGINIA. I wish I could more particularly speak of the ser- vices of Colonel Carrington, as I am well apprized, that he enjoyed the entire confidence of General Greene; and by hisjudicious councils, and unremitted exertions as Quarter Master General, greatly contri- buted to the advantages gained over the enemy. It is an indisputable fact, that in a country exhausted, and deficient in all resources, he still contrived to pro- vide such supplies for the comfort and support of the army, that he appeared to have achieved impossi- bilities, and not a murmur nor complaint impeded the progress to victory. A dispute, relative to rank, had called him to the North, before it had been my happi- ness to receive a commission in the service ; but, pre- viously to the evacuation of Charleston, he iiad rejoined the army, and resumed his former station : Q2 CARRINGTON. which gave me ample reason to believe, that where- soever placed, -his pre-eminent abilities must have been of the highest importance to his country. LIEUTENANT COLONEL LEE, OF THE LEGION. Favoured with his friendship, and honoured by a commission in his regiment, in drawing a sketch of the character of this distinguished partisan, I may be suspected of indulging improper partialities. I dis- claim any feeling that could produce them, and would far rather, that his reputation should depend upon a candid examination of his military services, than any commendation, that from grateful attachment, I might be inclined to bestow. General Charles Lee, who was, beyond question, a competent judge of military talent, averred — " That Henry Lee came a soldier from his mother's womb." General Greene pro- nounced him The Eye of the Southern Army ; and to his councils, gave the most constant, implicit, and unbounded conlidence. In the hour of difficulty, (and from the exhausted and distracted state of the South — the wretched and forlorn condition of the army — the superiority of force, and endless resources of the enemy, it was, to us, a war of difticulties,) was danger to be averted, was prompt exertion necessary to pre- vent revolt — crush insurrection — cut off supplies — harass the enemy, or pursue Inm to destruction — to whom did he so often turn as to Lee? That such preference should give birth to Envi/, and cause the calumnies arising from it, to be i)roi)agated, and che- rished with an avidity that would almost lead to the LEE. 63 supposition, that they were believed correct, cannot, from the perverse propensities of the human heart, be considered surprising. Lee had his enemies, and they were not slow in giving currency to opinions injurious , to his reputation. Measuring the extent of his powers, by the contracted scale of their own abilities, no allowance was made for the calculations of superior genius ; and the acuteness of almost unerring discern- ment ; and because he did not, on all occasions, en- gage with a blind precipitancy, according with their judgment, would have fixed on him the imputation of a shyness, that he never knew. Tn his memoirs, which, as a literary composition, do him high honour, it is remarkable, that he is so shy in claiming merit ; and certainly, in various instances, has withheld pre- tensions, which he might have fairly made, to high distinction. He has not hinted, in the slightest de- gree, that the grand scheme, for the recovery of the two Southern States, when Lord Cornwallis, after the battle of Guilford, retired to Wilmington, was first suggested to General Greene by him ; and that it would have been afterwards abandoned, but for his earnest remonstrances. Such, however, was the truth, and i)errect the evidence corroborating it. In reply to my inquiries on the su!)iect, the Honourable Judge Johnston, of Abingdon, Virginia, a meritorious and distinguished officer of the Revolution, says — " I am perfectly satisfied, that the grand enterprise, for the recovery of South Carolina and Georgia, by marching into those states, when Lord Cornwallis retired to Wilmington, originated with Colonel Lee. Accident afforded me the view of a letter, written by General Greene to Colonel Lee, immediately after the second battle of Camden, fought on the 25th of April, 1781, in which the General expressed a determination to abandon the scheme of continuing his progress south- wardly ; and directed Lee to join him immediately 64 LEE. with his corps, which had, about that time, reduced the post of the enemy at Wright's Bluff, on the San- tee River. I shall never forget one expression, in that letter, which goes very far to prove, that I am right, in the opinion that I have ever since entertained. ' I * fear, my friend, said the General, that I have pursued * your advice too far, I have resolved to march back * with the army towards Virginia, and desire that you * will join me with your command as soon as possible.' Without a moment's delay. Colonel Lee left the le- gion, and sought General Greene, doubtless to coun- teract the pernicious tendency of this hasty resolution, since he speedily returned, countermanded the orders to unite with the main army, crossed the Santee, and marched rapidly forward to lay siege to Fort Motte." This statement is fully supported by the testimony of Dr. Matthew Irvine ; and more satisfactory authority could not be desired, since he was actually the agent, the organ of communication betwixt the two, while the scheme was in agitation, and ripening for per- fection. Communication, by letter, was considered as inexpedient and dangerous ; and by personal inter- views with the parties, delivering opinions reciprocally, and conveying the answers to them, he became the happy instrument of bringing to maturity, the plan that gave liberty to the South. The letter mentioned by Judge Johnston, my correspondent, was seen also by Dr. Irvine. He states, that the General added — *' Although I am confident, that your wish was, to give increase to my military reputation ; yet, it is evi- dent to me, that by listening to your advice, I have forfeited my pretension to it for ever." Can further evidence be required ? In the eyes of the unpreju- diced, I should say, certainly not. Believing, then, that Lee's advice to General Greene, induced him to transfer the war into South Carolina, I shall briefly state the consequences resulting from the measure. LEE. 65 North Carolina became encouraged, by finding that her future security was not considered as endangered, and the Partisan Commanders of the South, Sumter, Marion and Pickens, who, unsupported, had already effected wonders, were now stimulated to give in- crease to activity and enterprise, from the! conviction, that they would not only contend with the enemy upon more equal terms, but be enabled, more effectually, to maintain the advantages resulting from their valour and their victories. The fall of the military posts held by the enemy, followed in rapid succession. The sur- render of Fort Watson, Fort Motte, Fort Granby, in South Carolina, and of Fort Cornwallis at Augusta, in Georgia, give the stamp of judicious foresight to the councils of L^e. Nor is less applause due to the skill and enterprise attributed to him, in their reduc- tion. Had he directed the operations of the besiegers at Ninety-Six, instead of Kosciusko, different indeed would have been the result. On his arrival at the post, immediately after the capture of Fort Corn- wallis, he, with the eye of a soldier, at once perceived, that the plan of operations, and point of attack, adoi)ted and pursued by General Greene, had not been advantageously chosen. With that exquisite military sagacity, which cannot be denied him, he immediately satisfied the Commander in Chief, that th,e place would be easily carried, by obtaining possession of the western redoubt, a slight fortification at a distance from the enemy's main work, but of great importance, since it completely commanded the only fountain from which the garrison could procure water ; and subse- quent events incontestibly proved, that if his plan had been adopted in the first instance, the fort must have fallen, even though defended by the gallantry of Cru- ger, seconded by his able coadjutor, Green. ^ la * Major in a Provincial Regiment. 9 66 LEE. evidence of his services, and the extensive benefits resulting from them, it is only necessary to give an extract of a letter from General Greene, expressed in the following terms : — " Lieutenant Colonel Lee re- tires for a time for the recovery of his health. I am more indelited to ^/if 5 officer, than to any other, for the advantages gained over the enemy, in the operations of the last campaign; and should be wanting in gra- titude, not to acknowledge the importance of his ser- vices, a detail of which is his best penegyric." Da- ted February 18th, 1782. Of the horses of his regiment, he has been fre- quently accused of being too careful ; but, considering the advantages accruing from a precaution, by which a constant superiority of cavalry was maintained, how can he be blamed with justice, more especially, when it is known, that the number of prisoners taken in a single campaign, by the dragoons of the Legion, dou- bled their effective number; and that every individual of the corps, was armed with a Potter\s sword, the weapon the most highly estimated for service, taken in personal conflict from the enemy. Of the lives of his infantry he was never sparing. There was no action in which they were engaged, in which they did not perform a conspicuous part ; while the lamentable fate of poor Whaling, and his followers, (fully detailed in another part of this work) evince, that their fall was regarded as a needless and unnecessary sacrifice. Of the free exposure of his person, w here example was necessary to excite to gallant achievemi^nt, there can be no doubt. If there are any who cherish less cha- ritable opinions, they must deny discernment to Greene, who employed him in the most hazardous enterprises ; and judgment to the immortal Washing- ton, who, when the insurrection took place in the upper parts of Pennsylvania, placed him at the head of the army, with a declaration, that he considered LEE. 67 him the man in the United States, the best calculated to suppress it, with promptitude, and effect. Towards his officers, he possessed the most friendly and affec- tionate feelings. To his soldiers, he was a parent — • he was attentive to their wants, and indulgent to their wishes. His constant and assiduous care, was exer- cised to procure them comforts, and with such effect, that while other corps were almost entirely destitute of clothing, the Legion were enabh^l, invariably, to preserve a highly respectable appearance. I would mention, with particular commendation, the vis;ilance of Colonel Lee. Surprised, when a Captain in Bland's regiment, near Philadelphia, he profitted by experience, and was, to the end of the war, so atten- tive to the security of the force which he commanded, that, whenever within striking distance of the enemy, the Sergeant of the Quarter Guard, invariably, at midnight, woke up ever Officer and Private Soldier, who, by order, putting on their entire dress and accou- trements, might again seek repose, but in such a position, that on the firing of a musket, or tap of a drum, every man was at his post, prepared for action, or ready for retreat, as circumstances required. When surprised at the Spread Eagle Tavern, near Philadel- phia, and surrounded by the entire British cavahy, he assured the dragoons under his command, who gal- lantly joined in defending the house, that he should consider their future estal)lishment in life, as his pecu- liar rare ; and he honourably kept his word. They were all, in turn, commissioned ; and by their exem- plary good conduct, increased their own renown, and the reputation of their regiment. 68 WASHINGTON. GENERAL WILLIAM WASHINGTON. WiTEi no loss respect and admiration, would I re- cord the gallant achievements of the modern Marrelliis: the sword of his cow??i??/-^Lieiitenant Colonel William Washington, who, at the first call to arms, engaged in the military service, and to the termination of the war, appeared on the field of glory with pre-eminent dis- tinction. He fought, with his gallant regiment, at York Island, and receiving merited applause, shared its difficulties and dangers on the retreat through New Jersey. At the surprise of the Hessians at Trenton, as a Captain in the line, he headed the van of one of the assailing columns; and, while leading on his com- pany to the attack, was severely wounded in the hand. He was now transferred, with an increase of rankj to the cavalry ; and having the good fortune to escape the slaughter at Tappan, with the remains of Bland's, Baylor's, and Moylan's regiments of horse, was de- tached to join the army of General Lincoln, in South Carolina. His first rencontre with the enemy, took place betwixt Ashley Ferry and Rantowle's Bridge, where he drove back the cavalry of the British Le- gion, commanded by Lieutenatit Colonel Tarleton, and took several prisoners ; but, being unsupported by infantry, gained little advantage from his success. The. surprises at Monk's Corner, and Laneau's Ferry, which had nearly caused the entire destruction of tlie American cavalry, are, in no degree, attributable to him, as he acted, in both instances, in a subordinate capacity; and at the last place, finding his advice to pass the River without delay, disregarded, he pre- pared for the catastrophe, and on the sudden attack of Tarleton, plunged into the River, and happily gained tlie opposite shore. These repeated disasters, com- ^ WASHINGTON. 69 peliin^ him to retire, with the remainder of his corps, to the borders of North Carolina, he applied, but in vain, to General Gates, for tlie aid of his name and authority, to expedite its restoration and equipment. Severely did that infatuated General pay the penalty of his injudicious refusal. Had the request been attended to, the presence of a superior cavalry, led by so distinsuished a soldier as Washington, might greatly have influenced the success of the battle, and, at all events, prevented the terrible slaughter that followed the defeat at Camden. While attaclied to the light corps commanded by General Morgan, he, by a very ingenious stratagem, carried the post at Rugely's, taking a large body of the enemy, without firing a single shot. Apprized of the character of his oppo- nent, Rugely, he fixed a pine log on the front wheels of a wagon, so as to make it appear, at a distance, as a field-piece, and threatening immediate destruc- tion should resistance be attempted; the affrighted Colonel requested, that quarter might be allowed, and surrendered at discretion. It was on this occasion, that Lord Cornwallis, writing to Lieutenant Colonel Tarleton, laconically said — " Rugely will not be a Brigadier." He, in a high degree, contributed to the achievement of the brilliant victory at the Cowpens, although his too ardent zeal had nearly cost him his life ; for, anxious by example, to increase the energy of pursuit, he was led so far in advance, as to be sur- rounded b}'^ several officers of the British Legion ; and must have fallen, had he not been rescued by the gal- lantry of a Sergeant, and his Bugleman, Ball^ who, by a well-aimed pistol-shot, disabled the officer, whose sword was raised for his destruction. In the retreat into Virginia, and in all the manoeuvres subsequent to the recrossing of the Dan, he essentially aided to bafile the skilful efforts of Lord Cornwallis, to force General Greene, heading an inferior army, to battle. 70 WASHINGTON. At Guilford, he acted a most conspicuous part. By a spirited and most judicious charge, he broke the re- giment of Guards commanded by Colonel Steward, who fell in the action, and followed by the gallant Colonel Howard, leading on the Marylanders, with fixed bayonets, nearly annihilated them. Trifles have often, in the heat of battle, been productive of the most unlooked for consequences. Washington's cap fell, and while he dismounted to recover it, a round of grape, from the British artillery, fired by the order of General Webster, on friends as well as foes, the more effectually to check the success of the Ame- ricans, so grievously wounded the officer next in command, that, incapacitated from managing his horse, the animal wheeled round and carried him off the field, followed by the rest of the cavalry, who unhappily supposed that the movement had been di- rected. This accident saved the remnant of the Guards, and, in all probability, the entire British army. I heard, from an officer of distinction in the army of the enemy, who was w^ounded in this action, the fol- lowing interesting particulars : — " 1 was near General Webster, when the charge was made by Washington. The desperate situation of the Guards, had its effect on all around. An officer of rank, in the American army, quickly perceiving it, rode up to the British line, and called aloud, ' surrender, gentlemen, and be certain of good quarters.' Terrified by appearances, and concluding that defeat was inevitable, the soldiers of the regiment De Bose, were actually throwing down their arms. Confusion was increasing. Gen- eral Webster, whose presence of mind could not be disturbed, exclaimed — ' Unless that gallant fellow is taken off, we are lost.' A Lieutenant of artillery, bringing ui) a field-piece at the moment, was directed to fire into the throng, where the Guards now a|)peared to be greatly out-numbered, and did so with the happiest WASHINGTON. 71 success — the cavalry wheeled off, the remains of the battah'on rallied, and the army was saved." At Hob- kirk's Hill, new honours awaited him. Gaining the rear of the British army, by judicious manoeuvring during the action, he captured and parolled eleven offi- cers, and made prisoners of upwards of two hundred men — fifty of whom he brought off the field ; the retreat of the American forces obliged him to relin- quish the remainder. But, in the evening of the day on which the engagement took place, having decoyed Collin, who commanded the horse of the enemy, into an ambuscade, he charged him with an intrepidity that could not be withstood, and compelled him, after the loss of half of his men, to fly and take shelter in Camden. At the battle of Eutaw, though unfor- tunate, no hero had ever, in a higher degree, merited success. His repeated charges on the British light infantry, would, probably, have disconcerted a corps less brave, or commanded by any other officer than Majoribanks;^ but, they maintained their position with a steadiness that could not be subdued ; and in a last effort for victory, Washington's horse being killed, he became entangled, as he fell, in the ranks of the enemy, and being unable to extricate himself, was '* This distinguished officer is still spoken of in St John's with great respect. He was the foe to oppression, and guardian of the unfortunate. He suffered no severities within the reach of his command ; nor withheld his beneficence where the power appeared of doing good, even from the fami- lies of his most decided opponents. He fell a martyr to disease, and is buried on the plantation of Daniel Ravenel. An old Negro, still living, has often pointed out his grave, and added, this is the officer w ho turned aside the soldier's bayonet, who would have killed Colonel Washington, when he fell at Eutaw. The fact which, I doubt not, gives him new claims to our ad- miration. The Commanding Officer had his grave enclosed, and a cypress board, (which still remains) placed at his head, with the following modest inscription : John Majorieanks, Esquire, Lnte Major in the \9th Ret^t. Inf, and commanding a flank holtnlion of his Majtstifs army, Obit. 22 J Or/. 1781. 72 WASHINGTON. bayoneted and taken. The intrepid conduct of his f^allant followers, cannot be too highly extolled- — Captain Watts, the second in command, tlm Lieute- nants Stuart, Kinc;, Gordon, and Simons, were wounded ; Mr. Carlisle, a volunteer, killed, and half of the men destroyed. After which, the residue were drawn off by Captain Parsons, the only officer who escaped without injury. The action at the Eutaws, was the last in which Lieutenant Colonel Wasiiington was engaged. Remaining a prisoner to the conclusion of the war, he married a lady, equally distinguished by her virtues and accomplishments, and settled in South Carolina. Possessing a very considerable pro- perty, he indulged in unbounded hospitality, receiving, with affectionate attention, his military associates, and maintaining the respectable character of a liberal and independent country gentleman. The eclat of his military services occasioned his immediate election to the Legislature, where it soon became evident, that he possessed every requisite to render himself as much distinguished in Council, as he had been in the field. His intuitive knowledge was great; and by his assidious application to business, received daily improvement. His friends, who clearly perceived that he possessed far greater claims to ta- lent, than his extreme modesty would admit, were anxious to place him at the head of the State Go- vernment : but, it was in vain that they essayed to excite him to become a candidate for the office. " My ambition is," he constantly said, " to devote my ser- vices to my country ; but, there are two powerful reasons which render it impossible for me to aspire to the honour of governing the State. The first is, that till lately I was a stranger aniong you ; and, in my opinion, the Chief Executive Officer should be a na- tive of the land on which he presides. Nor would I, on the score of qualification, put my talents in com- WASHINGTON. 73 petition with those of many able men, who are am- bitions of the honour. My other reason is insur- mountable. If I were elected Governor, I should be obliged to make a speech ; and I know, that in doing so, without gaining credit in your estimation, the consciousness of inferiority, would humble me in my own — / cannot make a speecL^^ A report having reached Head-Quarters, that the author of " Common Sense'^^ was in distress at Phila- delphia, it was no sooner communicated to Lieutenant Colonel Washington, than he said to a friend — '' I cannot bear the idea, that the man, who, by his writ- ine^s, has so highly benefited my country, should feel the want of bread, while the power is mine to relieve him ;" and without a sentence more on the subject, by the first post, remitted him a bill for one hundred guineas. In the year 1810, I was appointed by the Society of the Cincinnati, to pronounce an Eulogy, expressive of their high sense of his meritorious services, and of their deep regret on the loss sustained by his death. Circumstances compelled me to decline the honour, though I have always considered it as the highest com- pliment that could have been paid me by my fellow- soldiers, that they deemed me worthy, to detail the services, and celebrate the virtues of so good a man. Colonel Washington was tall and majestic in person, exhibiting a manly figure, with every indication of superior strength, and corresponding activity. His countenance was composed, and rather of a serious cast, but evinced the benevolence that characterized all his actions. The sketch which I have given of his military career, falls, in my own estimation, far short of the encomiums which are his due. To compensate my readers for tlie insufficiency of the attempt, I offer, as 10 74 WASHINGTON. a treat, the Resolutions published by order of the Revolution Society, on the melancholy occurrence of his death. EESOLUTIONS OF THE REVOLUTION SOCIETY OF SOUTH-CAROLINA. The American Revolution Society^ convened on the occasion of the recent death of Lieutenant Colonel Washington, feel themselves promjited by duty and sensibility, to give utterance to their sentiments upon that calamitous event. They who knew the deceased, (and to many of this Society, of which he was a member, he was intimately known,) could not but have remarked in him, a felicitous combination of mind and heart, rarely united, which qualified him to be eminently distinguished as a soldier, and esteemed as a citizen : which produced in him great virtues untarnished by the association of correspondent vices ; which rendered him modest without timidity, generous with- out extravagance, brave without rashness, and disinterested without austerity ; which imparted firmness to his conduct, and mildness to his manners; solidity to his judgment, and boldness to his achieve- ments; which armed him with an equanimity unalterable by the frowns of adversity, or the smiles of fortune ; and steadiness of soul not to be subdued by the disasters of defeat, or elated by the triumphs of victory. WHien the Societ}'^ also recollects, that he was a gallant soldier, enterprising without ambition, encountering danger, not for his own renown, but for his country's independence ; that he was a patriot, inflexible without obstinacy, warm without passion, and zealous without bigotry ; that in private life he was useful without parade, liberal without ostentation, amiable without weakness, and honourable without fastidiousness, they cannot permit him to descend to the silent tomb, and refrain from expressing some mark of reve- rence and ailection for his worth ; however frail and evanescent these testimonials may be, it will nevertheless manifest that they honoured the deceased when hving, and that they cherish the remembrance of his virtues and services after death. Therefore, Resolved, That the members of this Society do wear crape on their left arm for thirty days, as a tribute of respect to the memory General William Washington. WASHIiNGTON. - 76 Resolved, That the President be requested to transmit a copy of these resolutions to Mrs. Washington, and to express to her the deep regret of this Society for the great loss she has sustained. Resolved, That the foregoing resolutions be published in the Ga- 7iettes of this city. Bi/ Order of the Society, William Crafts, President. , John Cripps, Treasurer and Secretary. GENERAL GREENE. To distinguish with commendation, equal to his merits, so good and great a man, is, confessedly, be- yond my ability. Having been honoured by his friendship, and a member of his military family, the opportunity I enjoyed, of taking a more critical view of his character, strongly impresses the belief, that it was exalted be^ ond the reach of ade;;uate praise. In presenting it to view, an opportunity will be afforded me, of exhibiting the sentiments of. more competent judges, while I reserve to myself, the privilege of asking — " Whether such multiplied evidence, as I shall produce of private worth, and public utility, of captivating virtues, and superior talents, do not give to General Greene, an exalted claim to superior intel- ligence .?" ^^ Great is my disappointment, that a gentleman, admirably well qualified to do justice to his memory — a soldier who had served under him — a friend, whom he loved, after having made considerable ad- vances in the delineation of his life and character, withholds it from the public. Judge Pendleton, of New York, to whom I allude, shared with General Greene, in all the dangers and difficulties of the Southern War, and had daily opportunity of witness- 76 GREENE. ing the developement and exercise of those brilliant^ talents, which caused him, like the Great Frederick, " to shine with greatest lustre, when hardest prest ;" and, ultimately, to establish the liberty and indepen- , dence of a large portion of the United States, on a basis that can never be shaken. To speak of his military capacity — We are told, that, on his very first appearance in the camp at Cam- bridge, from the ardor of his zeal, unremitted activity, and strict attention to every duty, he was pronounced, by soldiers of distinction,* a man of real military genius. " His knowledge (said General Knox to a distmV guished citizen of South Carolina,t) is intuitive. He\ came to us, the rawest, and most untutored being ; I ever met with ; but, in less than twelve months, he j was equal, in military knowledge, to any General/ Officer in the army, and very superior to most of them.^ The British officer, who opposed him in Jersey, writes — " Greene is as dangerous as Washington ; he is vigilant, enterprising, and full of resources. With but little hope of gaining any advantage over him, I never feel secure when encamped in his neighbour- hood,"! To speak of his disinterestedness, General Wash- ington gives the following honourable testimony of his character : — " There is no Officer in the army more sincerely attached to the interests of his country than General Greene. Could he but promote these interests in the character of a corporal, he would ex- change, without a murmur, his epaulette for the knot. For, although he is not without ambition, that am- bition has not for its object, the highest rank, so much as the greatest good." In compliment to his brilliant successes, the Chi- valier de la Luzerne, the Minister of France, who, as ^ Colonel Piclvering and others, t Judge Desaussure. * Lord Cornwallis GREENE. 77 a Knight of Malta, must be considered as a competent jiidse of military merit, thus speaks of him : — " Other Generals subdue their enemy by the means with which their country, or sovereign furnishes them ; but, Greene appears to subdue his enemy by his owu means. He commenced his campaign, without either an army, provisions, or military stores. He has asked for nothing since ; and yet, scarcely a post arrives from the South, that does not bring intelligence of some new advantage gained over the foe. He con- quers by magic. History furnishes no parallel to this." .Previous to his appointment to the command of the ''^^Southern Army, he had acquired a considerable share of professional reputation. The Commander in Chief, recommending him to Congress, says — *' He is an Officer, in whose abilities, fortitude and integrity, from a long and intimate experience of him, I have the most entire confidence." He had long been his intimate associate ; and it has often been said, that he so highly approved the excel- lence of his heart, and was so fully satisfied of his pre-eminent talents, and ability to direct the operations of an army, that, in the event of his own death, he strongly urged that he should be advanced to the supreme command. I shall now, more particularly, detail his services ; for in all that regards so good and so great a man, I consider every circumstance of importance. General Greene contributed to the security of the army in the retreat through the Jerseys. He displayed the best conduct and most distinguished intrepidity at Trenton, Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth. He con- ducted the retreat at Rhode Island, with consummate skill, after having vainly endeavoured to procure the co-operation of the fleet of D'Estang. Had his solicitation been successful, it must have placed the 78 GREENE. entire force of the enemy in our hands. But, it was in consenting to be placed at the head of the Quarter Master General's Department, conformably to the earnest wishes of the Commander in Chief, that he rendered incalculable benefit to his country. His natural disposition led him rather to seek for laurels in tlie field of battle, than to the safer duty of providing resources for others. But, considering the benefit that would result to his country, as superior to every selfish feeling, he uttered no complaint ; and so com- l)letely justified the expectations formed of his capacity and persevering industry, that, when retiring from the station. General Washington said to him—" You have rendered the path of duty in the Quarter Master's ) Department, so broad and plain, that it will not be/ easy for your successors to mistake it." . ■ On his arrival in Carolina, he found a country every where marked with outrage, desolation, and blood, and an enemy bold in enterprise, and flushed with success, prepared to crush him. The prospect was truly appalling. The remnant of the army, delivered up by Gates, consisted not only of inferior numbers, but was mostly composed of militia, dispirited by mis- fortune, and entirely destitute of every adequate means to sanction the hojie of effectual resistance. Their j)rovisions were exhausted — the comfort of decent clothing was unknown — and the want of arms and ammunition so great and deplorable, as to render im- practicable, every attempt to commence active opera- tions. Yet, beneath such an accumulation of difficulty, his resolution sunk not. His immediate care was, to obtain a supply of subsistence and ammunition, to increase the comfort of iiis troo|)s, and to perfect their discipline. This he so completely effected, that in a very short time, the condition of the army was so much ameliorated, that the recollection of misfortune was lost ; and with the utmost confidence in his GREENE, 79 ability, they solicited their General to advance, de- claring, that iHider his guidance, they considered victory as secure. But, tliou^h delighted with this propitious change in the disposition of his troops, his future hopes and high confidence, were derived from the known characters of the Officers under his command. Aided by the zeal, activity, enterprise, and varied ta- lents of Huger, Morgan, Williams, Carrington, How- ard, Washington, and Lee, in the regular Line, and of Sumter, Marion, Pickens, and Davie, the Partisan Commanders of the militia, he looked forward, with no presumptuous hope, to the certainty of success. It is a tribute justly due to their merits, to say, that he was particularly fortunate in the choice of the Aids-de- Camp, then serving in his family. Burnett, Morris, Hyrne, Pierce, Pendleton, and Shubrick, were Offi- cers of no common character, and daily evinced, that they were worthy of the honour bestowed on them.* * In addition to the advantages accruing to General Greene, from the ta- lents of the distinguished characters attached to his command, I consider him particularly fortunate, while in active service, in the selection he had made of his Aids-de-Camp. The attachment to his person, and devotion to his will, of Colonel Morris, Majors Burnett, Pierce, and HYRNE,and Captains Pendleton and Shubrick, while grateful and flattering to himself, he proudly acknowledged essentially beneficial to the service ; it gave energy to exertion, display to their abilitieB, and caused each, in succession, to be honoured with the thanks of Congress^ To the watchfulness of Colonel Morris, to whom the General was most sincerely attached, he handsomely acknowledged his se- curity from captivity, and, probably, his escape from death, at the battle of Guilford. Burnett and Pendleton, pre-eminently possessed the talents the best fitted for conducting the important business of Head Quarters. Pierce, admirably qualified to conciliate all who apj)roached the General, with com- plaints or solicitation. He well knew how to give additional sense of obliga- tion to favours granted, and parry, without offending, unreasonable requests ; and even to give to direct refusal such an appearance of justice, as to prevent complaint. Hvrne excelled in negotiation, while his honourable scars evinced, that he was no less bold than intelligent. Shubrick was no less distinguished: To convey orders through every peril — to assail with the column he was directed to see advance— to charge with the troop com- manded to fall on the enemy, no man possessed more chivahic gallantry than he did. He had constantly shown himself an Officer of talent and eiiterprise ; and not only will his name be enrolled among the heroes of 80 GREENE. Every necessary preparation beinis; now made, for the commencement of hostilities, General Morgan was detached to enter South Carolina, and take a position on the left of Cornwallis, while General Greene, at the head of the main army, moved to the Cheraw Hills, about seventy miles to his right. It is not my intention to give details of the battles fought, and of victories gained ; nor of the skilful manoeuvres practised to avoid action, when, conse- quences too mosnentous, would have been put at haz- ard by defeat ; but, looking to the results, I feel con- fident in saying, that greater prudence, more happy and accurate discernment in anticipating events — more promptitude to profit by favourable occurrences, were never displayed by any General, in ancient or in modern times, than by General Greene. I mention it- the Revolution, from his own merits, but to future generations, shine ^ with additional lustre, from the pre-eminent intrepidity of his gallant offspring. Sis sons has he given to the service of his country. The two eldest died before the aggressions of an enemy, gave opportunity to evince their devotion to their native land. Of Captain John Templar Shubrick, how shall I speak ? — How, in terms sufficiently energetic, express my admiration of his exalted worth ? The brave, the heroic youth, who, thrice in the space of twelve months, saw the flag of Britain floating beneath the banners of his country — " the Lion prostrate beneath the basilisk glance of the triumphant Eagle." His merits are beyond the reach of encomium. Imagination may lead us to conceive, of w hat might have been expected from him — but, alas • " He is gon£ — and tdolalrous fancy Jihist sanctify his relics." The share which Lieutenant William Shubrick had, in the capture of the Cyane and Levant, gave ample testimony of his merits. Lieutenant Edward Shubrick was less fortunate in the opportunity of displaying his gallantry, but not less eager to meet the foe ; and in different cruizes under Commodore RoDGERS, did an infinity of miscliief to their trade, conveying many valuable prizes, with safety, into port. Irvine Shubrick, the sixth brother, began his career under the cloud of misfortune He was captured on board the Presi- dent, but lost no honour ; and had the satisfaction of perceiving, by the com- plete discomfiture of the Endymion, that had the contending force been more equal, another naval victory had graced the annals of his country. From youths of such promise, what n:ay not be expected, should war be again the poition of our country. GREENE. 81 to the honour of the gentlemen of his family, who were present at the battle of Guilford, that imme- diately previous to its commencement, they waited upon him in a body, earnestly to solicit — " That he would put their lives at every hazard ; but that he would be careful of his own, as the service would not suiter by their loss, but that his fall would not only be fatal to the army, but, in all probability, greatly retard, if not destroy, every hoi)e of securing the indepen- dency of the South." His ardour, however, was not to be restrained. The exposure of his person was his least consideration ; and it had nearly cost him his liberty ; for a party of the British Guards, pursuing the flying militia, passed within a very few yards of him, but not till the warning voice of an Aid-de- Camp, had given him time to place himself in security. In writing, shortly after, to Mrs. Greene, he says — "To my friend Morris, 1 am indebted for my safety." ^ The loss of cannon, in action, has always been con-^ sidered as the most certain testimony of defeat. — General Greene felt this ; and when compelled to retire before the enemy, at Hobkirk's Hill, finding the horses belonging to the artillery, too much crippled to remove the pieces brought into the field, dismounted himself, and putting his hand to the drag-ropes, gave such animation to the exertions of the men, that they were carried off in safety. And here I would mention, that his military occu- pations had made but little alteration in his principal habits, and that, in simplicity of manners, he was still a Quaker. Exertion being imperiously called for, after the bat- tle of Guilford, and his own, as well as the wounded of the British, who had been left and recommended to his humanity, impeding his movements, he, in the style the best suited to his views, so pathetically ad- dressed the Society of Friends, in the neighbourhood, 11 32 GREENE. that they immediately tenderer! their services, to give relief to the afflicted, and left him at full liberty to pursue the retiring enemy. One talent he possessed, in the highest degree, bene- ficial to the service — an accurate discernment of the ca|)acities and peculiar traits of genius, characterizing the Officers under his command, and of applying them in the manner in which they promised to produce the best effects. Lee, he considered his eye — Washington his arm; now, although I have no doubt, but that Washington would have succeeded in conducting the si( ges of the posts held by the enemy, (for he had shown at Rugely's, that he was not deficient in strata- gem ;) and am perfectly convinced, that Lee would have headed a charge of cavalry with the gallantry of a hero, yet, it will scarcely be denied, but that the for- mer was more in his proper sphere, in causing the enemy to fly before the vigour of his attacks; the last, in the exercise of the fertile expedients that produced the end to be accomplished, more certainly, than if attempted by force and violence. To Sumter and Pickens, who commanded a bold and hardy race of men, who had never submitted, was peculiarly in- trusted, the conduct of the enterprises where bold and impetuous attacks were the most essential to success. To Marion, was assigned, the more difficult duty of conciliating the disaffected ; and by the gentleness and suavity of his manners, and perfect knowledge of the human heart, reconciling to themselves, and to their country, the men who, by the delusion of fair pro- mises, or threats of violence, had yielded temporary obedience to the enemy. Not, however, confining the abilities of so distinguished a soldier, to such views alone, but encouraging him to pursue that mode of warfare so happily adapted to his genius — harassing detachmetits — cutting off supplies — exciting peri)etual alarm — and striking, with effect, the points where he GREENE. nS was least expected, till his name became so formi- dabl(?, that, to pass the limits of encampment, was considered the immediate prelude to death or captivity. But, in no instance, did he show greater accuracy of judgment, than in the appointment of Colonel Otho H. Williams, to the command of the light troops, who were to cover his retreat into Virginia ; for nev^r was man better suited to the happy discharge of such a trust. Perfect in military science, he kept an ardent temper under strict control ; was vigilant and circum- spect ; always prepared to profit by occasion, but never to risk for slight advantage, or endanger the security he was strictly commanded to maintain. Of General Greene's literary talents, I have little to say. His early education had not been conducted on an extensive scale ; the knowledge which he pos- sessied, v»^as from the inspiration of natural genius, and an uncommon strength of mind. When called upon to speak, or write with promptitude, on a subject that interested him, his ideas were sublime, his ex- pressions forcible, and well adapted to the subjed ; but, when he aimed at elegance of style, and to give to his correspondence the beauty of well-turned periods, his compositions were of a different cast. When the mutiny of the cavalry took place on the Hills of Santee, while Lieutenant Merri weather, who brought the intelligence, and waited his dispatchers to return, was snatching a hasty meal, I sat by the side of the General, transcribing a copy of his address to the revolters, as quickly as the sheets on which it was written, were thrown to me. At the conclusion, he left me, more forcible to impress on the Lieutenant, the necessity of despatch, to overtake the corps, to read to them his address, and to endeavour to bring them back to their duty. In the interim, one of the most enlightened Patriots, and distinguished Officers of our arm3% entered the apartment. Delighted, my- 84 GREENE. self, I asked his opinion of this hasty production, and was gratified to hear him declare : — '' That he had never heard an address better calculated to produce the effect that might be hoped from it." The General's heart had been interested — he felt the disgrace that would tarnish the laurels so honourably attained ; and writing under the influence of strong emotions, wrote well. But, as I said before, whenever he laboured to excel, he never succeeded. To the gentlemen of his family, he was affable and kind, inspiring them with the warmest aifection^Yor his person, and admiration of his fame. By his Officers he was beloved — by his Soldiers, idolized. They knew him brave, and believed him invincible. Against such a man, the British Commander of the South, General Leslie, saw the folly of contention ; and till the evacuation of Charleston, contented him- self, for many months, to remain, tranquilly, within his lines. OFFICERS WHO FELL IN THE SOUTHERN WAR. It is impossible for me to notice, with just estimation of their talents and patriotism, the distinguished miUtary characters who fell pre- viously to my return to my native country and connection with the army. On the authority of others it is still delightful to record them ; and where I fail to bestow the due meed of praise, I trust it will be attributed to the true cause, — the want of sufficient informa- tion for the proper performance of the duty. COLONEL OWEN ROBERTS. The untimely fate of Colonel Owen Roberts, who fell at Stono, was the cause of universal regret. He was an inflexible Patriot, an excellent disciplinarian, and an enthusiast in pursuit of military fame. His son, who was in the action, hearing of his misfortune, hastened to him. The expiring veteran, perceiving in his countenance the liveliest sorrow, addressed him with great composure : — " I rejoice, my boy, once again to see and to embrace you. Receive this sword, which has never been tarnished by dishonour, and let it not be inactive, while the liberty of your country is endangered. Take my last adieu — accept my blessing, and return to your duty !" 86 LAURENS. LIEUT. COL. JOHN LAURENS. It is with peculiar delislit, that I mention, among the most distinguished worthies of the Revohuion, Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens; for no man more highly merited the gratitude of his country, and by none was I ever so highly befriended. His general character is so well known, and has been so ably depicted by others, that I have little to say that can increase its celebrit}''. His extensive information, and classical knowledge, obtained the respect of the learned. His polite and easy behaviour, insured distinction in every polished society. The warmth of his heart, gained the affection of his iVi^nds, his sincerity their confidence and esteem. His :)a- triotic integrity commanded the veneration of his coun- trymen — his intrepidity their unlimited api)lause. An insult to his friend, he regarded as a wound to his own honour. Such an occurrence led him to engage in a personal contest with General Charles Lee, who had spoken disrespectfully of General Washington. The veteran, who was wounded on the occasion, being asked — '' How Laurens had conducted himself ?" replied — " I could have hugged the noble boy, he pleased me so." His gallantry, in action, was highly characteristic of his love of fame. The post of danger was his favou- rite station. Some, indeed, may style his display of intrepidity, at every risk, the height of rashness. — Strictly speaking, it was so. But, at the commence- ment of the war, when the British Officers were per- suaded, or affected to believe, that every American was a coward, such total disregard of personal safety, on the part of Laurens, such display of chivalric in- trepidity, that equally excited their surprise and admi- LAURENS, 87 ration, was, essentially, beneficial to our cause. To deny that liis anxiety to meet the foe, led him too often into unnecessary peril, is impossible. I had, too often, cause to see and to lament it. Let one instance suffice to prove it. A Centinel on the bank of Ashley River, opposite to Dorchester, perceiving a Red Coat moving through the brush wood on the other shore, gave the alarm that the enemy were without their lines. This being communicated to Lieutenant Colonel Laurens, a troop of dragoons, and a company of infantry of the Legion, were ordered to cross the river and reconnoitre. But, the rapidity of thr stream determined Captain O'Neal, who com- manded, to wait till a boat, which had been sent for, should arrive. In the interim, Lieutenant Colonel Laurens gallopped up and demanded with warmth, " Why this halt, Captain ? — were not orders given to cross ?" *' Yes, Colonel, but look to the current, and judge if it be practicable." '' This is no time for argument," rejoined Laurens. " You, who are brave men, follow me." Saying this, he plunged into the river, but was instantaneously obliged to quit his horse, and with extreme difficulty reached the oppo- site shore. O'Neal, than whom a braver man did not exist, indignant at the speech of Laurens, replied, " Yoii shall see, sir, that there are men here as cou- rageous as yourself," and at the head of his troop, entered the river. I cannot do justice to the scene that followed. All was tumult and confusion ; for, although no life was lost, several of the men were so nearly drowned, that it became necessary to use every means to make them disgorge the water they had swallowed ; and all were so much exhausted, that ix temporary halt was indispensably necessary. The infantry, by the aid of plank, and large doors torn from a neighbouring ware-house, passed over with less difficultv. In the mean time. Lieutenant Colonel 38 LAURENS. Laurens, attended by Messrs. Ralph and Walter Izard, and Mr. Wainwriglit, who ever accompanied him as his Aids, hastened to the spot where the British regi- mental had been seen. It then was found, that a military coat had been hung up in a tree, by a soldier who had been whipped and drummed out of the 64th Regiment, for drunkenness, and whose lacerated back would admit of no covering. The exposure of so many valuable lives, connected with other causes, induced the Officers of the Legion, at an after period, to resign their commissions rather than serve under Laurens. To speak more particularly of his military achieve- ments. His first essay in arms was at Brandy wine. At the battle of Germantown, he exhibited prodigies of valour, in attempting to expel the enemy from Chew's house, and was severely wounded. He was engaged at Monmouth, and greatly increased his repu- tation at Rhode Island. At Coosawhatchie, defending the pass with a handful of men, against the whole force of Provost, he was again wounded, and was probably indebted for his life to the gallantry of Captain Wigg, who gave him his horse to carry him from the field, when incapable of moving, his own having been shot under him. He headed the light infantry, and was among the first to mount the British lines at Savannah — displayed the greatest activity and courage during the siege of Charleston — entered with the forlorn hope, the British redoubt carried by storm at York Town, and received with his own hand the presented sword of the Commander ; by indefatigable activity, tliwarted every effort of the British Garrison in Charleston, confining them for upwards of twelve months, to the narrow limits of the City and Neck, except when under the protection of their shipj)ing, they indulged in distant predatory expeditions ; and, unhappily, at the very close of the war, too carelessly LAURENS. 89 exposing himself in a trifling skirmish near Com- bahee, sealed his devotion to his country in death. I consider it highly to the honour of Lieutenant Co- lonel Laurens, that when requested to carry a message to Provost, on his approach to the lines of Charleston, proposing, " neutrality during the continuance of the war," he declined it with decision : " I will do any thing," said he, " to serve my country, but never bear a message that would disgrace her." When General Moultrie, who equally spurned the idea of entering upon terms with the enemy, declared, in Council, " that he would not deliver up his Continentals as prisoners of war," Laurens leapt from his seat, and exclaimed, "'tis a glorious resolve. General; thank God, we are on our legs again." But there is one service rendered to his country, which, though little known, entitles him to its warmest gratitude. When sent by Congress to negotiate a loan from the French Government, although his reception was favour- able, and encouragement given, that his request would be granted, yet the delays perpetually contrived by the Minister, the Count de Vergennes, afforded little pros- pect of immediate success. Convinced that procrasti- nation would give a death blow to Independence, he resolved in defiance of all the etiquette of the Court, to make a personal appeal to the King. Dr. Franklin, our Minister at Versailles, vehemently opposed his inten- tion ; and finding Laurens firm in his purpose, he said — " I most cordially wish you success, Colonel ; but, anticipate so different a result, that I warn you — I wash my hands of the consequences." Accordingly, at the first levee. Colonel Laurens, walking directly up to the King, delivered a memorial, to which he solicited his most serious attention, and said — '^ Should the favour asked be denied, or even delayed, there is cause to fear, that the sword which I wear, may no longer be drawn in defence of the liberties of my 12 gQ LAURENS, Country, but be wielded as a British subject against the monarchy of France." His decision met with the reward it merited. Apologies were made for delays. The Minister gave his serious attention to the subject, and the negotiation was crowned with success. From such a display of chivalric gallantry in early life, may not friendship be allowed to say, without the imj)utation of improper partiality — To auger from the achievements which the past had exhibited, had not Death stopped the career of his glory, he would have proved a model, both of civil and military virtue, " a mirror by which our youth might dress themselves." SERGEANT JASPER, 2d Regiment. The gallantry displayed by the heroic Jasper, dur- ing the battle of Sullivan^s Island, cannot be passed over in silence. It has been frequently recorded ; but while I notice the achievements of men of superior grade, his intrepidity, inhanced by his extreme modesty, demands my warmest encomium. The Flag Staff of the Fort having been shot away very early in the action, Jasper leaped down upon the beach, took up the Flag, fixed it to a spunge staff, and, regardless of the incessant firing of the shipping, mounted and planted it on the rampart. Governor Rutledge, in testimony of his admiration of so distinguished an act of heroism, presented him a Sword, and offered him a Commission. The first he grateiully accei)ted, but declined the last. " Were I made an Officer," he modestly said, " my comrades would be constantly blushing for my ignorance, and I JASPER. 91 should be unhappy, feeling my own inferiority. 1 have no ambition for higher rank than that of a Sergeant." Through every subsequent period of the war, his conduct was exemplary ; but, in the details which 1 have seen, carries too much the air of romance, to be dwelt upon. He was a perfect Proteus, in ability to alter his appearance : perpetually entering the camp of the enemy, without detection, and invariably re- turning to his own, with soldiers he had seduced, or prisoners he had captured. During the attack at Savannah, he appeared at the head of the assailants, he seized the colours of his regiment, which had fallen from the hands of the Lieu- tenant who bore them ; but receiving, himself, a mor- tal wound, returned them, and retiring, but reached the American encampment to expire. WILMOTT AND MOORE. A few days previous to the evacuation of Charles- ton, a very rash expedition, suggested by Colonel Kosciusko, occasioned the loss of Captain Wilmott and Lieutenant Moore, two of the most distinguished Partisans in the service. The object was, to surprise a party of wood-cutters from Fort Johnson, working in view of the Garrison of Charleston. So much was the accuracy of the information doubted, that many believed, that the Negro who gave it, had been sent expressly to decoy the Americans. Certain it is, the party found their enemy prepared, and received so deadly a fire, that Wilmott and several of his men, fell lifeless, while Moore and many others remained on the 92 WILMOTT AND MOORE. field, covered with wounds. Kosciusko, although a spontoon was shattered in his hand, and his coat pierced by four balls, escaped unhurt. A British dra- goon was in the act of cutting him down, when he was killed by Mr. William Fuller, a very young and gallant volunteer, who had joined the expedition. This was the last bloodshed in the Revolutionary contest. The British buried Wilmott with the honours of war, and showed the greatest attention to Moore, who was removed to Charleston, to receive the best surgical assistance. The amputation of the limb, in which he received his principal wound, being indis- pensible, it was performed within a few days after the evacuation, by our own Surgeons ; but, mortification rapidly following, he died greatly and universally lamented. When first brought into town, great pains were taken by the British Surgeons to extract the ball, but without success. Mrs. Daniel Hall, in whose bouse he lodged, and who had watched over him unre- mittingly, being apprized of the business which brought the most distinguished Surgeons together, entering the apartment of Moore, as soon as they had retired, said — " I am happy to find, that you have not been subjected to as severe an operation as I had anticipated ; you appear to have experienced but little agony. I was constantly in the next room, and heard not a groan." " My kind friend," he replied, *' I felt not the less agony ; but, I would not have breathed a sigh, in the presence of British Officers, to have secured a long and fortunate existence." Colonel Lee, in his Memoirs, mentions a singular instance of an Officer of the British Guards, Captain Maynard, distinguished, on many occasions, by his intrepidity, who, reluctantly, entering into the engage- ment at Guilford, foretold the death which he actually met. WILMOTT AND MOORE. 93 I consider it, in like manner, remarkable, that Wil- mott, whose courage bordered upon rashness, and who was never known to impede the progress of any enterprise, however hazardous, on being ordered by Kosciusko, to get ready for the expedition, said to Mr. John Gibbes, one of the youthful volunteers who served under him — " I have not my baggage at hand ; you must lend me a shift of clothes, my young friend ; for, if I fall, which is not unlikely, it would be a satis- faction to me, that the enemy should find me clad in clean linen." And a bowl of tea being presented to him, at the moment, by Miss Mary Anna Gibbes, (the same who had risked her life to save from danger her infant cousin Fenwick,) he gallantly said — " This atten- tion is particularly gratifying. It is delightful to think, that the last refreshment that may ever pass my lips, was presented by so lovely and amiable a friend." In a few hours, he was numbered with the dead. LIEUT. COL. RICHARD PARKER. The fall of this excellent Officer, is thus feelingly noticed by Lee : — " He was one of that illustrious band of youths, who first flew to their country's standard, when she was driven to unsheath the sword. Stout, intelligent, brave, and enterprising, he had been advanced from the command of a company, in the course of the war, to the command of a regiment. Always beloved and respected, late in the siege of Charleston, he received a ball in the forehead, and fell dead in the trenches, embalmed in the tears of his faithful soldiers, and honoured by the regrets of the whole army." 94 MOULTRIE AND NEYLE. CAPTS. T. MOULTRIE & PHILIP NEYLE, During a sortie made by a detachment of the Gar- rison of Charleston, under Lieutenant Colonel Hen- derson, with the hope of impeding the approaches of the besiegers, much gallantry was displayed, parti- cularly by Mr. Daniel Wilson, and Benjamin Singleton, then a boy of sixteen, who, when volunteers were called for, was the first to offer his service. No advantage, however, resulted from it ; a few of the enemy were killed, and eleven prisoners taken ; while the service lost a zealous and brave Officer, Captain Thomas Moultrie, who fell universally lamented. Captain Philip Neyle, about the same period, a gen- tleman of high accomplishment, refined manners, and determined bravery, was killed by a cannon ball. He was Aid-de-Camp to General Moultrie, and was pressing forward to the lines, exulting in an order which he conveyed, to quicken the fire upon the €nemy, when the catastrophe occurred, which deprived his country of one of its boldest defenders. The battle of Eutaw, proved fatal to two Officers of distinguished reputation : LIEUT. COL. CAMPBELL, Of the 1st Virginia Regiment, who had previously, under the command of General Greene, both at Hob- kirk's Hill, and at the siege of Ninety-Six, gained high renown, fell in the decisive charge which broke ^he British line, and without a struggle expired* DUVAL. 95 LIEUTENANT DUVAL, Of the Marylanders, at the same period, closed his brilliant career in death. The service did not boast aa Officer of more consummate valour, or higher pro- mise. He was active, intelligent, and ever foremost in the pursuit of glory and renown. At Ninety-Six, he led the forlorn hope of Campbell, storming the Star Redoubt with exemplary intrepidity ; and at Eutaw, had taken a field-piece from the enemy, when struck by the fatal ball which terminated his existence. MAJOR BENJAMIN HUGER. In Major Huger, the service lost an Officer of great gallantry, and high promise. He fell, covered with wounds, before Charleston, while executing an im- portant duty, during Provost's invasion ; and, to in- crease the calamity, by friendly hands — the fire which destroyed him, proceeding from the American lines. The Marquis de la Fayette, and Baron de Kalb, on their first arrival on the shores of America, landed on North Inland, in Winyaw Bay, and were welcomed, with the most cordial hospitality, by the family of Major Huger, who made it their summer residence. Anxious to pursue the object of their voyage, they speedily, under the guidance of their friendly host, removed to Charleston, and from thence to the army commanded by General Washington, in which they both, in a very short time, received honourable appointments. 96 HUGER. It required but a short acquaintance with La Fay- ette, to feel interested in his success. He was greatly admired by his entertainers ; and their sentiments in his favour, continually increased by his rising fame ; it is not to be wondered at, that the son of the family, by constantly hearing the encomiums bestowed on his gallantry, and love of liberty, should have cherished that enthusiastic attachment to his character, that led to as noble an act of friendship and heroism, as adorns the page of chivalry. The circumstances attending this generous exertion of friendship, are so highly interesting in themselves, and honoural)le to my gallant countryman, Colonel Francis Kinloch Huger, that I trust I shall rather be commended than blamed, for more particularly detailing them. When, at an early period of the French Revolution, La Fayette discovered, that the Liberty which he had so zealously contended for, and which he had fondly hoped to see established in his beloved France, vi^as insulted and trampled on ; and that the government and destinies of the Nation had passed into the hands of men, far more ambitious of self aggrandizement, than to promote the true interests of their Country. When he saw, that the very individuals, who but a little before, had enthusiastically professed themselves to be the Apostles of Benevolence and Philanthrophy, bewildered by the wildest chimeras of imagination, and dreaming of perfections incompatible with the frailty of humanity, were now to be satisfied only by unlimited increase of power, and appeased in their resentment by the unceasing effusion of blood. When in the scowl of the giddy multitude, it was evident, that the life which he would have sacrificed with de- light for the public welfare, was now to be aimed at by the dagger of the assassin. Distracted by the HUGER. 97 view of evils that he could not prevent, and fore- seeing the miseries that would speedily fall on a deluded people, he . retired a voluntary exile, to seek an asylum in a foreign land, where, unnoticed and unknown, he might pity and lament them. It could scarcely be imagined, that under such circum- stances, showing no disposition to hostility, uttering no word that could offend, no sentence that indicated a wish to disseminate the principles of his own poli- tical creed, and from the reduced number of his adherents, incapacitated from doing injury, that he should have been regarded, either as an object of apprehension, or distrust; much less, that the effort to procure the inestimable blessing of freedom to his country, should subject him to penalties, that cannot be otherwise considered, when weighed in the scales of justice, than as outrages to every principle of honour and humanity. Yet, without the slightest commisseration for his forlorn condition, or sympathy in his unmerited disgrace, he had scarcely entered the dominions of the Sovereigns allied against France, before he w^as arrested and delivered up to Austria, and conducted to Olmutz, to suffer every rigour of perse- cution, in solitude, and in a dungeon. The world, however, viewed not his misfortunes with cold indif- ference. Petitions for his release were presented from all quarters ; and in the British House of Commons, the motion made for the interposition of the (Govern- ment, in the sufferer's behalf, must ever do honour to the memory of General Fitzpatrick. Unhappily, the Emperor's irritation was, at the moment, exalted to the highest pitch, and he remained inexorable. The anxious wish to free from captivity, a man who had boldly stepped forward the Champion of Liberty, originated with Dr. Bolman, a young Hanoverian, active, intrepid, and intelligent, but communicated confidentially to his friend Huger, with an inquiry, if 13 98 HUGER. he was inclined to second the enterprise, was em- braced with alacrity, and entered on with an ardour, that ensured his unremitted efforts to produce its accomplishment. The preparatory arrangements were speedily settled. Huger feigned indisposition, and Bohnan, assuming the character of his attending Phy- sician, horses were purchased, and after visiting several German cities, the friends arrived at Olmutz* Constantly intent on the object of their association, an acquaintance was speedily formed with the gaoler, to whose custody the illustrious prisoner was committed, and without appearing to take too great an interest in his fate, by speaking occasionally of the severity of his treatment, which they candidly acknowledged, they thought disproportioned to his offence, obtained jjermis- sion to send him books, that might beguile the tedium of solitude, and afford some mitigation of his griefs. The gaoler, a simple, benevolent man, saw no improt)riety in the transaction, while the books delivered were subject- ed to his inspection, and the opportunity afforded of ascertaining, that there was nothing improper in their contents. Thus, a correspondence was established. La Fayette, informed of the source of this unhoped for indulgence, at once conceived that more was meant than met the eye, he, therefore, carefully pe* rused the book, and found, in different places, words written with a pencil, which being put together, gave him th€ names of the parties, and a clue to their de- signs, which, if approved, would at once determine them, at all hazards, to free him from his captivity. The book was returned with an open note, thanking them for their civility in sending it, and an assurance, that it had been read with marked attention, and that he was, in the highest degree, charmed ivith its con- tents. In this manner, and by the stratagem of writing in lemon-juice on the back of a note, in its visible contents, altogether trivial, with a hint in the HUGER. 99 book sent — " Quand vous aurez lu ce billet mettez le aufeu; which, when complied with, caused the in- tended communication distinctly to appear in lei2;ible characters, he was made acquainted with their ar- ran|[!;ements, and the day fixed on to put their plans in execution. They had been already apprized by the gaoher, that his prisoner, though generally closely con- fined, was permitted, under the charge of proper attendants, to take exercise without the walls ; that he rode in an open cabriolet, accompanied by an Offi- cer, and attended by an armed Soldier, who mounted behind by way of guard ; and that, when at a distance from the walls, that it was their custom to descend and walk together, for the better enjoyment of exercise. On the day appointed. La Fayette was requested to gain as great a distance from the town as possible, and on their api)roach, by an appointed signal, to discover himself, as he was unknown to both. Every preliminary being arranged, the friends quitted Olmutz, well mounted, Bolman leading a third horse, and in anxious expectation awaited the approach of the object of their solicitude. The city is situated about thirty miles from Silesia, in the midst of a plain, which, taking the town as a centre, extends three miles each way, without the interposition of woods, rocks, or impediments of any kind. From the walls, every thing passing within these limits, could be distinctly seen. Centinels were posted at all points, to give the alarm, whenever a prisoner endeavoured to escape, and considerable re- wards promised to all who contributed their aid to secure him. These were, indeed, appalling difficul- ties, but not sufficient to check the ardour of youthful enthusiasm, intent to brc^ak the chains of a hero, against whom no accusation rested, but an ardent and Lore. lOQ HUGER- unceasing effort to better the condition of his fellow men. La Fayette, at length, appeared, accompanied by his usual attendants. The preconcerted signal was given, and returned. A conflict speedily succeded, which gave freedom to the prisoner. The led horse was presented by Huger, who exclaimed — " Use the means, sir, that are offered for escape, and may For- tune be your guide ;" but, before he could mount, the gleam of the sun upon the sword that had been wrest- ed from the Officer, startled the animal, who broke his bridle and fled. Bolman rode ofl' in pursuit, hoping to overtake him. In the interim, Huger, with a generosity truly chivalric, insisted that La Fayette should mount the horse that he himself rode, and hasten to the place appointed as a rendezvous. — " Fly," he exclaimed — " the alarm is given — the pea- sants are assembling — save yourself I" The advice Avas followed, and in a little time, the fugitive was out of sight. Bolman, who had in vain pursued the frightened horse, now returned, and taking Huger up behind him, gallopped away, follovv'ing the route of La Fayette. They had gone but a little way, when the horse, unequal to such a burden, stumbled and fell, and Bolman was so terribly bruised, as to be scarcely able to rise from the ground. The gallant Huger, aided his exertions to remount, and superior to every selfish consideration, earnestly intreated him to follow La Fayette, declaring that he could easily reach the woods which bordered the jilain, and in their recesses find security. Bolman, though with extreme reluc- tance, complied. During the rencontre which had taken place, the Soldier, who had remained with the cabriolet, instead of assisting his Officer, ran off towards the town, but the alarm had been given long before his arrival there. The transaction had been seen from the walls, the HUGER. 101 cannon fired, and the country raised. Bolman evaded his pursuers by telling them, that he himself was in pursuit. Huger, less fortunate, was marked by a party who never lost sight of him, and being over- taken, was seized and carried back in triumph to Ol- mutz. Meanwhile, La Fayette was rapidly advancing in his flight, and had actually progreesed ten miles, when arriving at a spot where the road divided, he was at a loss which to choose, and unluckily took the wrong one. Its direction very speedily induced him to suspect the truth, and he stopped to make inquiry of a man, who, concluding that he was a prisoner attempting to escape, gave him a wrong direction, running to a Magistrate to communicate his suspicion, so that La Fayette, at a moment that he believed him- self rei^aining a road that would give him security, found himself surrounded by an armed force, and again a prisoner. To the interrogation of the Magis- trate, his answers were so apt and ready, and a tale invented to account for the rapidity of his movement, so plausible, and so satisfactory, that expressing his conviction of his innocence, he was about to dismiss him, when a young man entering the apartment, with papers which required Magisterial signature, after fixing his eyes attentively on the prisoner, said — " This is General La Fayette ! I was present when he was delivered up by the Prussians to the Austrian Commandant, at . This is the man, I cannot be mistaken." This declaration at once settled his fate. He too, was triumphantly conducted to Olmutz. Bolman escaped into Prussian Silesia, but after two days, was arrested and again delivered over to the Austrian authorities. On tlie arrival of Huger at Olmutz, he was carried before Count Archo, tlie Military Commandant of the City, a veteran of high respectability, who conducted himself, during the examination, with gentleness and 102 IIUGER. humanity, but after some inquiries, delivered him over to the Civil Authority. Three days after this, chained hand and foot, the dauntless enthusiast was again brought before the Commandant and Civil Officer, to be further interro- gated. The temper and disposition towards him, seemed now essentially changed. The Civil Officer, this day, took the lead in the examination ; and when Huger complained with strong expressions of indignation, of his treatment, the Judge imperiously demanded — " Know you, sir, the forfeit of your conduct ? An answer being returned in the negative, he very solemnly and impressively replied — " Your life !" But, apparently in order to remove the impression that such a sentence was calculated to pro- duce. Count Archo immediately turned the discourse into a panegyric upon the Emperor, telling him, that his youth, his motives, and conduct, could not but secure his clemency. " Clemency," said Huger ; how can I expect it from a man, who did not act even with justice, towards La Fayette." A check was immediately given to the boldness of the prisoner, and Count Archo then mildly added — " I judge of others from my own feelings. The attempt to injure me I freely forgive ; and if ever 1 shall need a friend, I wish that friend may be an American." Count ^Arciio's entire conduct, was probably in- tended, not only to encourage hope in the prisoner, but to beget some consideration for him, and to give him consequence in the eyes of the Civil Officer, which might induce him to treat him better, and with greater respect than he had at first seemed inclined to do. And it certaitdy had its effect. Yet, with what shadow of excuse can the conduct of the Emperor be palliated ? A heart, i)ossessed of any claim to ge- nerous feeling, or capable of justly appreciating the enthusiasm of disinterested friendship, would have HUGER. 1Q3 spurned the idea of treating with rigour, an intrepid youti), whose generous ardour, in a cause that he idolized, constituted the only crime alleged against him. But chains — a dungeon — restrictions both in food and clotiiing, were imposed by the imperious fiat ol power, and his suiferings regarded with an apathy degrading to the ciiaracter of man. Yet, the ardent spirit that gave birth to enterprise, did not, under such appalling circumstances, forsake him. His mind was at i)eace with itself, and his fortitude remained unshaken. During a long and rigorous confinement, Hope embellished the anticipations of more propitious for- tunes, and constancy enabled him, with firmness, to sui)port the immediate goadings and pressure of cala- mity. Restored at last to freedom, he sought his native country — became consi)icuously serviceable in a military capacity, and now, in tranquil retirement, possesses as much of happiness as domestic felicity, and the universal esteem of his fellow-citizens can possibly bestow. SURVIVORS OF THE REVOLUTION. Having presented to my young Countrymen, this brief Narrative of the achievements of their ancestors, and of the patriotism of the dead, " By all their countrj^'s wishes blest," would it not be blameable, to withhold the tribute of applause from the living, who honoured in early life, v/ith the love and confidence of their Country, give now to the world, in the vale of years, examples of every patriotic virtue, that can evince their devotion to it. GENERAL C. C. PINCKNEY. Very early after his appointment, to command a company in the 1st Continental Regiment of his na- tive State, Captain C. C. Pinckney was sent into North Carolina to recruit. He had scarcely esta- blished himself in quarters at Nevvbern, when two persons arrived there as settlers, very evidently, both from personal appearance, and easy address, of supe- rior rank and qualifications. The one was advanced in years ; the other appeared in the bloom and vigour of life. Captain Pinckney immediately recollected, that an intercepted letter from General Gage to Gov- ernor Martin (which, as a member of the Secret Com- mittee, he had read previously to his departure from Charleston,) assured him, " That a Highland Officer PINCKNEY. 105 of ability, well calculated to conduct an enterprise successfully, would speedily appear in his province ; and earnestly intreated him, till such a person should produce his credentials, and to his entire satisfaction, make himself known as a zealous Loyalist, that he would use his utmost endeavours to keep the Scotch emigrants quiet, lest, by premature insurrection, they might blight the existing hope, and favourable prospect of a counter Revolution." Conviction, struck forcibly on the mind of Captain Pinckney, that one of the persons who had attracted his attention, was the very individual alluded to in the letter of General Gage — the other, his assistant and councellor. He, accord- ingly, repaired to the Committee of Public Safety, and having stated his reasons for believing, that the strangers were hostile to the views and interests of the country, demanded their arrest. Hostility was, as yet, but in its dawn — Aggression, on the one part, had not excited inflexible resentment on the other. The Members of the Committee were timid, and declined interfering, choosing rather to run the risk of a great evil, than do an act that might be found unjust and op[)ressive. *' Besides," (it was alleged by one of them) " the intercepted letter spoke but of one, and here are two persons equally liable to suspicions." " I would recommend the arrest of both of them," re- plied Captain Pinckney. '* Prudence demands it. The age of the one proclaims him the Monitor to advise ; the vigour and activity of the other, the Lea- der to execute." ** It is enough," it was replied, " that we allow you to recruit. We cannot any fur- ther, while yet a glimmering prospect remains of reconciliation, oppose the Royal authority." *' Then, gentlemen," rejoined the Captain, " prepare for the consequences." The event very speedily evinced the clear and ac- curate perceptions of Captain Pincknev. The stran- 14 106 PINCKNEY. gers repaired to Cross Creek, and speedily exciting the Countrymen to arm in support of the Royal Gov- ernment, appeared at the head of a very formidable force. General Moore immediately marched against them. McDonald, the Chief, was intrusted by Go- vernor Martin, with the supreme command, and justified the high opinion entertained of his courage and activity ; but, the veteran WLeod, his associate, being killed, and many other Officers of his party, his nun abandoned him, and he was compelled to surren- der himself a prisoner. After the repulse of the British Fleet at Sullivan's Island, little prospect appearing of immediate hos- tilities in the South, the anxiety of Colonel C. C. Pinckney, (now advanced to the command of the 1st Regiment) to serve his country, and to acquire an in- crease of military knowledge, induced him to join the army in the vicinity of Philadelphia : There he was immediately received into the family of the Com- mander in Chief, and appointed his Aid-de-Camp. In this capacity, he was present at the battles of Brandywine and Germantovvn, and by his intelli- gence, zeal, and activity, so successfully won the con- fidence of Washine^ton, as to be honoured by him afterwards, both in the field and in the diplomatic corps, with the most distinguished and important ap- pointments. As soon as danger threatened the South, be returned to Carolina ; and on the approach of General Clinton to Charleston, was intrusted with the defence of Fort Moultrie. Influenced by the recollection of former misfortunes, and intent only on gaining the command of the Harbour, the British Admiral, profitting by the advantage of a favourable breeze, and flowing tide, passed the Fort with rai)idity, giving little opportunity to the Garrison, to display either courage or skill. The disappointment was great, and the hopes of en- PINCKNEY. 107 hancing the reputation of our arms was completely frustrated. To remain an idle spectator of the siege, was to a soldier of enterprise, ardent in the pursuit of liis country's glory, altogether impossible. He has- tened with a part of the Garrison, to the post of dan- ger : and so long as a cheering ray of hope encouraged resistance, offered an animating example of courage and of constancy. At the Council of War, summoned during the siege, to deliberate on the propriety of sur- rendering the City to the enemy. Colonel C. C. Pinck- ney delivered his opinion to this effect : — '' I will not say, that if the enemy attempt to carry our lines by storm, that we shall be able to resist suscessfully ; but am convinced, that we shall so cripple the army before us, that although we may not live to enjoy the benefits ourselves, yet to the United States they will prove incalculably great. Considerations of self, are out of the question. They cannot influence any member of this Council. My voice is for rejecting all terms of capitulation, and for continuing hostilities to the last extremity." The battle of Bunker's Hill, and the more recent and brilliant victory at iNew Orleans, show how cor- rect the views of Colonel Pinckney, and prove, how completely militia can cripple, or destroy the most veteran troojis, when sheltered (however slightly) be- hind entrenchments, which, to them, supply the place of discipline. Captmed in Charleston, and a prisoner till the con- clusion of the war, no further opportunity was afforded to Colonel Pinckney, of serving his country in the field. An effort while yet in durance, in the cause of hu- manity, must not be passed over in silence. Major Hyrne, the Commissioner sent by General Greene into Charleston, for the i)urpose of negotiating an ex- change of prisoners, indignant at the iiarsh treatment 101 PINCKNEY. shown to Colonel Hayne, and anxious to prevent the infliction of the penalties denounced against him, pro- posed to Colonel Balfour, that the circumstances of his case should be discussed by Colonel C. C. Pinck- ney of the American Army, and Major Barry of the British Forces, intelligent Officers, at that period engaged in settling some points of controversy betwixt the contending parties. This being assented to by Colonel Balfour, Major Barry, who probnbly thought, that an American Officer knew just as little of the Law of Nations, as of the Doctrines of Confucius, boldly quoted the opinions of Grotius, as decidedly favourable to, and supporting the justice of the Bri- tish proceedings ; which being instantaneously declared incorrect by Colonel Pinckney, who averred, that the sentiments of that great man were in direct opposition to the statement made by Major Barry, reference was made to the author — whose works being produced by Colonel C. C. Pinckney, Major Barry was compelled to confess, that he was in error, lamenting — '* That he had not studied the passage with his usual accu- racy." Grotius, however, was no longer his oracle — it was indeed farcical to have named him, for he well knew the resolve of Lord Rawdon, and that the Laws of the Medes and Persians, were not more immutable than his fiat, once pronounced. As a Member of the enlightened Assembly which framed the Constitution of the United States, he assisted in forming our present Government, and after- wards in the State Convention, by the force of his reasoning, and clear demonstration of its excellencies, contributed amply to its adoption, by a considerable majority. In 1794, his firm opposition to the arrogance of the French Directory, demanding Tribute as the price of Peace, obtained for him, the universal applause of his country ; nor can it be forgotten, while the hallowed PINCKNEY. 109 Standard, raised at the construction of the Lines for the defence of Charleston, on the Pinckney Redoubt, proclaims the cherished sentiment of America — " Mil- lions for defence, hut not a cent for tribute,'^'' Another trait of character, exhibited at a later period, I cannot withhold from view. An Officer of rank, talent, and distinguished military services, having been nominated in 1794, to a command inferior to General Hamilton's, indignantly exclaimed — " Though my salvation depended on it, I would spurn the Com- mission, rather than serve under a man whom I had once commanded." When General C. C. Pinckney, on his return from France, was informed that General Hamilton, his junior in rank, had been placed above him, by the nomination of General Washington, in the true spirit of patriotism, he replied — " I am confident that the Commander in Chief had sufficient reasons for this preference. Let us first dispose of our enemies — we shall then have leisure to settle the question of rank." It is a due tribute to the disinterestedness that I venerate, that I record one other occurrence of i)ecu- liar interest. It is a fact well understood, that at the period of the struggle of party, relative to the nomi- nation of a President of the United States, in the year 1800, that General C. C. Pinckney, by consenting to unite his name with that of Mr. Jefferson, would have secured to himself, the unanimous vote of the Electors of South Carolina. But, consistent with his decided principles, such an association could not be entered into ; and to relinquish them, satisfied as he was of their purity and correctness, with a view to self-agrandizement, would have evinced a duplicity altogether repulsive to his nature. The scheme of union was, accordingly, dropped. The contest took place, and the dignity aspired to was obtained by Mr. Jefferson. The Ex-President Adams, wTiting to Gen- J 10 pmCKNEY. eral Gadsden on the occasion, thus expresses himself — *' I have been well informed of the frank, candid, and honourable conduct of General C. C\ Pinckney at your State I^lection, which was conformable to the whole tenor of his actions through life, as far as they have come to my knowledge." GENERAL THOMAS PINCKNEY. ArpoiNTED by the Society of the Cincinnati of South Carolina, at the commencement of the late war with Great Britain, to declare their satisfaction on the nomination of their President, General Thomas Pinck- ney, to the command of the Army of the South, it was particularly grateful to me to find, that the sentiments then expressed, were greeted with the perfect appro- bation of the public. The sketch of his character, which I shall now present, will, I trust, be received with equal favour, since more particular traits are given of his military career, and details of achievements that, in a high degree, exalt his claim to applause. Pursuing his studies in Europe, previous to the Re- volutionary War, the dawn of hostility towards his country no sooner appeared, than renouncing his pro- fessional, pursuits, his whole attention w^as given to the acquisition of military knowledge, and so rapid was his proficiency, that the rudiments of discipline were first taught by him to the infantry of the South Carolina line. A mutiny among the troops, at an early i)eriod of the war, afforded an opi)ortunity of manifesting that firmness and decision, so charac- teristic of him as a Soldier. Persuasion having been first employed, without avail, while other Officers in- PINCKNEY. Ill dulffed in menaces and upbraidings, Major Pinckney, unavved by their threats, and regardless of personal safrty, walked deliberately into the midst of the mu- tineers, and with a blow of his sabre cut down the ringleader. The effect was instantaneous — the cry for pardon was universal, and the order to disperse, obeyed without a murmur. At the battle of Stono, his exertions, as second in command of the light infantry under Colonel Hender- son, gained him the highest applause. Two com- panies of the 71st Regiment, the elites of the British Army, sallying out from their redoubts to support their pickets, were eagerly charged with the bayonet, and so completely routed, that nine only of their number retiuned within their lines. The credit of the corps was still further increased, by the bravery with which they covered the retreat of the army, enabling General Lincoln, not only to maintain order, but to carry off his wounded without loss. At the attack at Savannah, he headed an assailing column of the Continental Army, and actually mounted one of the British Redoubts, but was com- pelled, after sustaining considerable loss, reluctantly to retire. In the account given of the suppression of the mutiny in his regiment, there appears sufficient evi- dence of his firmness and decision. No trait of his character more highly entitles him to admiration, than the inflexible steadiness of his temper. The com- posure of his mind was never rufiled, either by the threatening of immediate danger, or pressure of con- tinued misfortune. I was informed by my respected friend Colonel D^ Oyley ^ thcii while with Major Pinck- ney, superintending the construction of a redoubt at the siege of Savannah, a shell from the enemy fell into the ditch, and burst so near them, that the earth was thrown with violence over them both, and in such 112 PINCKNEY. a manner, as completely to blind them, when the Major, without changing his position, or showing the slightest discomposure, calmly said — " I think, D'Oyley, that must have been very near us;" and continued, with great animation, to encourage the workmen to complete their labours. I state on the same authority, that at this disastrous siege, when the assailing column which he led was repulsed, and a retreat ordered, some confusion arising from the desire of the van, to press forward and get out of the reach of a heavy and destructive fire, by which they were greatly incommoded. Major Pinckney hastening into the front, commanded an immediate halt. '' Success, my brave fellows," he exclaimed, " though richly merited, has not crowned your exertions ; yet, do not disgrace yourselves by precipitate flight ; and though repulsed, quit the field like Soldiers." The effect of this address was instantaneously perceptible. Order was immediately restored, and the regiment, with de- liberate step, regained their encampments. At the disastrous battle of Camden, while acting as Aid-de-Camp to General Gates, he was desperately wounded and made a prisoner. His patience and for- titude remained unshaken. Conveyed into the town, it was night when he reached Mrs. Clmfs house (then by the fiat of power, converted into a Hospital.) The family had retired, and Major Pinckney was placed on a table in the piazza, where he lay till morning, suffering under a compound fracture of both bones of his leg, as he would not permit the rest of an oppressed and patriotic female to be disturbed. This calm and happy temper of mind, contributed in no small degree to the preser- vation of his life, for an exfoliation of the broken bones following soon after his removal to quarters, and no surgical aid at hand, he was obliged to direct the dressing of his wound, and to point out to his anxious and intrepid wife, the splinters that occasioned PINCKNEY. 113 the greatest agony, while with tenderness she removed them. The trial was, indeed, a severe one, to a lady of uncommon sensibility ; but there is no exertion to which the female heart, under the influence of its affections, is not equal. The duty performed, the for- titude of Mrs. Pinckney was no more ; her emotion, on seeing her husband's sufferings, so totally over- powered her, that she fainted and fell. The recollec- tion of such tender and heroic conduct cannot be lost ; it must ever command the admiration of the w^orld, and to her sex, afford a fascinating example for imitation. The Embassies of Major Pinckney, both in England and Spain, give ample proof, that the intrepid Soldier was an able negotiator ; while the flattering reception he met with, on his return to his native country, evinced the continued affection of his fellow-citizens.* He was shortly after elected to Congress, and there his talents alvvaj^s commanded the most respectful attention. It is little known, but certainly worthy to be record- ed, that during our negotiation with France in 1798, when the dispatches of our Envoys, Generals Pinckney, Marshall, and Mr. E. Gerry, reached the United States, detailing the hostility of the Directory, and the humi- liating proposition of tribute. President Adams, appre- hending, that their immediate publication might occasion further indignities to be offered to those gen- tlemen, still remaining in Paris, wished to withhold them for a time from public view. On consulting Major Pinckney, he gave a decided opinion, that they ought immediately to be made public, that the people might obtain a perfect knowledge of the insulting conduct of the French Directory. "And, sir," he feelingly added, " if the situation of my brother causes * His fellow-citizens took the horses from his carriage, and dragged him in it, amidst loud plaudits, to the place of his residence. 15 114 PINCKNEY. you to hesitate, I speak for him, as I know he would for me, were I similarly circumstanced. The glory of our country is at stake. Individual sufferings must not be regarded. Be the event what it may, life is nothing compared with the honour of America." During the late war with Great Britain, he com- manded the Southern Army, and his utmost efforts were unremittiuijly employed, in the first instance, to perfect the discipline of the troops, to give them a con- fidence in themselves, and an ardent desire for fame ; and in the second place, to secure our Coasts and Cities by fortifications, at those points the most exposed to the enemy. The Indian War, brought to a speedy termination under his auspices, gives the best testimony of the wisdom of his measures. Before he assumed the command, victories were gained without the acqui- sition of permanent advantage, and triumph invariably followed by precipitate retreat. The want of means to maintain the superiority acquired, imperiously called for its relinquishment ; but, by establishing Military Posts, with depots of provisions, arms, and ammu- nition, security was given to conquest, and no aban- donment of the territory subdued, was ever after necessary. His ready discernment of the talents of General Jackson, who, at a very early period, was pointed out to the Executive as an Officer, in the high- est degree, meriting the confidence of Government, has proved of incalculable advantage to his country, while the happy employment of them, by increasing his ardour for enterprise, and skill in turning, to profit every possible advantage, led to one of the most bril- liant victories that ever adorned the annals of the world. JACKSON. 116 GENERAL JACKSON. It is impossible for me to name this distinguished character, without offering to his merits, the tribute of applause so justly their due. Carolina proudly num- bers him among her Sons. I'he world allow him a degree of excellence, rarely attained, and never surpassed by the military characters of the highest celebrity. To speak of him with enthusiasm, is con- sistent both with justice and duty. My object, in giving publicity to the Anecdotes I would record, is, avow- edly, to honour the Fathers of our Revolution, and to excite that emulation in their descendants, to imitate their example, that will best secure the benefits re- sulting from their valour, and their virtues. General Jackson, at a very early period of life, aspired to obtain celebrity. At the age of fourteen, he commenced his military career, and shared the glory of the well-fought action at Stono. Made a prisoner in his native settlement at the Waxaws, shortly after the surrender of Charleston, his manly opposition to the orders of an unfeeling tyrant, who wished to impose on him the duties of a hireling, gave superior claims to applause. Wounds were inflicted, and increase given to persecution, but without effecting either the steadiness of his principles, or firmness of his resolution. He told his oppressor — " You may destroy, but can never bend me to submission."* Pre-eminently distinguished by services of a later period, there is an emanation of glory, giving bril- liancy to his achievements, which renders him pecu- •* The severity of his treatment, arose from his refusal to obey an Officer who ordered liim to clean his boots The spirit of the youth, which ought to have sailed forth applause, excited no sentiment, but that of unbridled r«sentineHf . ne JACKSON. liarly the object of admiration. Of the prudence of his conduct, and ardour of his intrepidity, when placed in command, I consider it altogether unnecessary to speak, as they transcend all praise. But, there are traits in his character, which, though hitherto but little noticed, should be mora particularly detailed, and brought into view. He has, in all his conversations, and on every occasion, appeared a stranger to the arrogance too frequently resulting from success, nor been tempted by it, to deny his obligations to the Com- mander in Chief, of whom he ever speaks with warm affection, candidly acknowledging, that to a steady adherence to his well arranged plans, and able advice, is greatly to be attributed, the success that brought the war to so speedy, and happy a termination. But, for no part of his conduct do I consider him more entitled to praise, than for his steadiness in resisting the recom- mendation of Governor Blount, in the campaign of 1813, who advised him to discharge a part of his force, quit ihe country he had subdued, and to retire for security to the settlements. The Governor hesi- tated with regard to the exertions of power, and feared reproach in enforcing orders, wfiich, when given, had been altogether neglected, or disobeyed. I admire the manly reply of General Jackson ! 1 admire the Republican feeling that laid aside all the formalities of ceremony, and taught him, in the firm language of truth, to say to the Governor — " If you would pre- serve your reputation, you must take a determined course, regardless of the applause or censure of the populace, and of the forebodings of that dastardly and designing crew, who, at a time like this, continually clamour in your ears. The very wretches who now beset you with evil council, will be the first, should the measure which they recommend, eventuate in disaster, to call down implications on your head, and load you with reproaches^ Your country is in danger; JACKSON. 117 apply its resources to its defence ! Can any course be more plain ? There are times v/hen it is highly cri- minal to shrink from responsibility, or scruple about the exercise of our powers. There are times when we must disregard punctilious etiquette, and think only of serving our country. The Commander in Chief, GenerLl Pinckney, supposes me prepared for renewed operations. Shall I violate the orders of my superior Officer, and evince a willingness to defeat the purposes of my Government ? Shall I abandon a conquest thus far made, and deliver up the friendly Creeks and Cherokees, who, relying on our protec- tion, have espoused our cause, and aided us with their arms ? What ! retrograde under such circumstances ? I will perish first ! I will do my duty — I will hold the posts that I have established, until ordered to abandon them by the Commanding General, or die in the struggle ! I would not seek to preserve life at the expense of reputation ! What then is to be done ? I will tell you what ! You have only to act with the energy and decision that the crisis demands, and all will be well! Send me a force engaged for six months, and I will answer for the result ; but, withhold it, and all is lost — the reputation of the State, and yours, and mine along with it.'' This was, indeed, the language of a patriotic heart ; nor did he sw^erve from it, but nobly persisting in his resolution — fought — was victorious, and gloriously terminated the Indian War. Yet, in how much higher a degree must his resentments have been excited, and patience tortured, when, at a later period on his approach to Orleans, where he was appointed to com- mand, the Governor informed him — " That the Legis- lature, instead of discharging with alacrity, diligence, and good faith, the duties which had been confided to them by th^;ir constituents, had, under the garb of privilege, endeavoured to mar the execution of mea- 113 JACKSON. sures the most salutary for the defence of the coun- try." And when he found, that on a requisition for their services, the militia resolutely resisted the call to rise in its defence, his indignation was roused to the highest pitch ; and feeling conviction, that without a change of system, and the adoption of measures, ener- getic in proportion to the danger which threatened, that the country could not be saved, he promptly, and with decision, proclaimed Martial Law, calling on every individual, under the threat of the heaviest penalties in case of refusal, to step forward and defend his country. " He thought, at such a moment, (a powerful, ambitious, and enterprising enemy ready to invade the soil) constitutional forms should be sus- pended for the preservation of constitutional rights; and that there could be no question, whether it was better to depart for a moment, from the enjoyment of our dearest priviliges, or have them wrested from us for ever." It is not for me to detail the discussions which follo\ved, nor the irritation eventuating from them, betwixt the civil and military power. I look to results. Disaffection was paralized. The spirit of the Commander was communicated to every division of the army. Hope and confidence animated every bosom. General Jackson knew, as he himself ex- pressed it — " That he possessed the best defence, a rampart of high-minded and brave men." He knew, that his well-tried troops were equal to the most daring enterprises; and that the less experienced levies were ambitious to emulate their glory. He led them to action with success, and when in turn assailed, defended his lines witli a degree of skill, and display of intrepidity, that addrd a victory to the annals of his country, that will, ro the end of time, do it honour, while it exalts his name to immortality. The blessings of a grateful nation, are the reward of Jackson. JACKSON. 119 It may, perhaps, be ronsidered as a departure from my original plan, to sive the details of an action of a recent date. But, the battle of the 23d of December, 1814, fought at night before New Orleans, appears to me so highly characteristic of the clear perceptions and intrepidity of General Jackson, and of such mo- mentous importance, by its influence on subsequent events, that I shall present it as communicated to me, by the gallant Lieutenant Colonel llayne, whose ser- vices on that, and every other occasion, cannot be too highly commended. A brief account of the battle that took place before Neio Orleans^ on the night of the 23d December, 1814, loritten by Colonel Arthur P. Hayne, at the particular request of Major General Andrew Jackson. About 2 o'clock, P. M. on Saturda}^, the 23d of December, 1814, his Excellency the Commander in Chief, was informed by Major Tat AM, that the enemy had effected a landing at the extreme point of Villery's canal, and from thence had reached the left bank of the Mississippi, six miles below the city of New Orleans. The Commander in Chief, with much foresight, had anticipated the pro- bability of an attack from that quarter, and had, but one hour before, ordered five hundred men, under the command of Inspector General Hayne, to take post on Villery's Canal. Major Tat am and Mr. Latour, had been ordered to precede this command, for the purpose of reconnoitermg. They were in the execution of this order, when to their astonishment, and that of the whole country, they found the British in the possession of the left bank of the Mississippi, only six miles below the City. In conformity with previous arrangements, and with which commandants of corps were made acquahited, sig- nal guns were fired, and all the troops of the different cantonments were placed under arms, and ready to move against the enemy. The Commander in Chief, whose firmness iji danger, and promptness in 120 JACKSON. oxecutlon, eminently distingush him, with a calmness and intrepidity which all must rcmembei, determined to meet the enemy. But he was well aware, from the manner in which his army was cantoned, that the City might be surprised before he was able to con- centrate his forces. In order, therefore, to frustrate such an event, he determined to push the light troops in advance. These troops consisted of the Mississippi dragoons, and two companies of rifle- . men.* He had orders to proceed forthwith against the enemy, to reconnoitre his position, ascertain his strength, and if possible, to check his advance, so as to enable the Commander in Chief to collect and concentrate his forces. This duty was promptly performed, and without meeting with any opposition. It was supposed, that the enemy's forces amounted to two thousand men, and a report to that effect was made to the Commander in Chief. The troops in ad- vance then halted within a short distance of the enemy, and were joined by the main body of the arm}', a little after sunset. It was about tliis time that the order for battle was given, and the plan of attack explained. Commodore Patterson and Captain Henly were directed to drop down the River with the schooner Caroliney come to anchor opposite the enemy's position, and at half-past seven o'clock, to bring on the action. The main army, under the imme- diate direction of the Commander in Chief, was to attack him in front at eight o'clock ; and Brigadier General Coffee's mounted riflemen, supported by Major Hinds' dragoons, had orders to turn his flank and gain his rear. The following was the disposition of the main army : — The ad- vance guard, led on by Lieutenant PvI'Clelland, had orders to proceed in as wide a column as the road would admit, and to attack the enemy's main picket, which was only three hun- dred yards in advance. He was also charged to make his men reserve their fire, to wait that of the enemy, and to continue his attack for fifteen or twenty minutes, as it would take that time to enable the artillery, whose position was immediately in rear of the advance, to form battery. After execution of this order, the advance was to form in rear of the artillery. * " To prevent this, Colonel Hayne, with two companies of riflemen, and the Mississippi dragoons, were sent forward, to reconnoitre their camp, leara their position, and in the event they were found advancing, to harass and oppose them at every step, until the main body should arrive ."-~L?/c of Jack' son, p. 287. JACKSON. 121 Our main line was only separated from the advance and the artil- lery, by a post and rail fence. It was composed of the 7th and 44th reginents of regulars, and Majors Planche's and Daquirs' city volunteers. These troops were drawn up in the avenue leading to La Rond's house, and had orders to break off by double files, from the heads of companies, and in that order to proceed against the enemy, dress to the right by the head of the artillery column, and thus to advance till our men should come in contact with the enemy. The line of battle was then to be promptly formed, by filing upon the right of companies. The enemy's position was some distance in advance of our line, his right towards the swamp, his left resting on the Mississippi, with a chain of sentinels very closely posted in front of his camp, sup- ported by strong pickets. Our arrangements preparatory to action being all complete, and every thing ready, at half-past seven o'clock the battle wal^rought on by Commodore Patterson and Captain Henly. This attack pro- duced a very happy diversion in our favour, causing much confusion in the enemy's ranks, and compelling him to throw his whole line immediately under the Levee, thereby exposing his right flank to our main army, and his rear to Brigadier General Coffee's command. At eight o'clock, the main army advanced in line of battle upon the right flank of the enemy, causing him to place his army somewhat in the form of a crotchet, in order to meet our attack, and still oppose the Caroline, At about half-past eight o'clock, Brigadier General Coffee's men commenced their attack, taking the enemy in right flank and rear, and involving him in much confusion. The firing of General Coffee's command was distinctly heard by our men. At about nine o'clock, the engagement became general. After an ob- stinate conflict of about one hour, the enemy was drawn from all of his positions. The heavy smoke occasioned oy excessive fire, and a thick fog, induced the Commander in Chief to resume his former position, otherwise there can be very little doubt, that we would have succeeded in capturing the whole army of the enemy. Our series of attacks, in regular succession, had involved their ranks in so much confusion, that they were unable to recover themselves. Our loss was great, but that of the enemy was much more severe. In the midst of Brigadier General Coffee's engagement, Colonel Rueben KexMper, a man of sound and vigorous mind, and of un- common coolness, courage, and perseverence, found himself almost 18 122 JACKSON. surroimded by the enemy. Perceiving his perilous situation, and fliat his only chance of escape was in stratagem, he exclaimed in an audible voice, to a group of the enemy — " What the Devil are you doing there ? Where is your regiment ? Come along with me immediately !" and they all followed him into the American Imes, and were made prisoners. Ensign Leach also deserves particular mention. He received a severe and dangerous wound through the body, but never quitted hi* post till \ictory was secured. He then retired to the City ; but the first gim that was fired in tlie lines, recalled him to the post of dan- ger, where he remained till the final overthrow of the enemy. The Americans engaged in the battle, may be estimated at about fifteen Itundred regulars and irregulars ; that of the British at about five thousand. The Commander in Chief, apprehending a double attack, by way of Chef-Mriliteur, directed Major General Carroll to take post on the Gentilly road. The result of the battle was the saving of New-Orleans. The pnde of an arrogant foe was humbled, the first time that he dared to profane the soil of Freedom by his hostile tread. It produced con- fidence in our ranks, establislied unanimity, and at once crushed dis- affection. It is thought to be the most finished battle fought during the late war. The ensemhh of the general movement, was main-, tuined throughout the whole affair. It was not a mere exertion of physical strength, as is often the case ; but in every stage of it, we elearly perceive the effects produced by the admirable arrangements- of the Commander in Chief; and like Caesar, he might have ex- claimed — ^' Vini, vidi, viciP CHARACTER AND CONDUCT OF THE OFFICERS OF THE LEGION. I feel too proud of the partial friendship experienced from my Brother Officers of the Legion, not to be ambitious, in some degree, to acquit myself of my debt of gratitude, by recording the successes resulting from th^ir exemplary good conduct, and the achievements that gave to many of them, peculiar claims to celebrity. Where merited praise is not bestowed, I can truly aver, that it will not proceed from intentional neglect. The title of most of them to distinction, has been repeatedly acknowledged by their General, and confirmed by the flattering concurrence of their confederates in arms. I can only speak particularly of those with whom I was . most familiar, and best acquainted. Major John Rudolph, the Captains Archer and Hurd, the facetious Captain Carns, bold in action, in quarters the delight of his associates ; George Carring- TON, Winston, Snowden, Lovell, Power, Harrison, Luns- PORD, and Jordan, performed every duty with alacrity, and with the highest advantage to the service. CAPTAIN JOSEPH EGGLESTON. CAVALRY. This meritorious Officer was endowed with superior powers of mind, but decidedly better qualified to gain celebrity in the cabinet, than in the field. He had the most perfect knowledge of duty, and was ever prompt in its performance ; but the spirit of enterprise parti- cularly requisite in a Partisan, was foreign to his nature. There occurred, however, one rencontre with the enemy, in which he acquired distinction, both for 124 EGGLESTON. talent and intrepidity. On the retreat of the British army from Ninety-Six, Lee, knowing that the rich settlement South of Fridig's Ferry, could alone afford the forage which they would require, determined to avail himself of the probable chance of striking a blow, which should paralyze every future movement, Eggleston was detached for the purpose, to the ex- pected scene of action, and choosing an advantageous position, anxiously awaited their approach. A party of sixty British dragoons, and some for;^ging wagons speedily appeared, evidently intending to reach the very farm he occupied. The charge was immediately sounded. The Legionary Cavalry rushed forward with irresisible impetuosity, the enemy were at once put to rout, the wagons taken, and forty-five dragoons brought off prisoners, without the loss of a single man. It is painful to state, though the imputation of blame rests not on him, that the opportunity of totally des- troying the British cavalry at Eataw was lost, by his having, from his ardour to perform his duty, obeyed an unauthorized order to engage. Foiled, and compelled to retire, when summoned to advance by Lee, he was too far distant to support Armstrong, who was ready to engage, but unequal with a single troop to meet the superior force of Coftin. On the day following the battle, however, he rendered very essential service, charging the retiring enemy, and taking from them several wagons containing stores and baggage. On this occasion, his horse was killed under him — he himself escaping without injury, though five balls pierced his clothes and equipments. At the conclusion of the war, turning his attention to literary pursuits, he was returned a Member of Congress, in which respectable body he obtained ap- plause and distinction* EGGLESTON. 125 Of warm and impatient temper, while yet in the flower of his age, tormented by the irritation of a dis- ordered leg, and insisting on amputation, mortification ensued, which caused his immediate and untimely dissolution. CAPTAIN JAMES ARMSTRONG. CAVALRY. There was no Officer in the service of the United States, whose feats of daring intrepidity, had made a more salutary impression on the minds of the enemy, than those of Armstrong of the Legion. The British did justice to his merits ; they admired his valour ; they gratefully acknowledged his humanity ; and when he, by an accident, became their prisoner, behaved towards him with marked and flattering attention. Had they displayed the same generous conduct towards others, which they exercised towards him, the aspe- rities of the war would have been softened, and noth- ing heard of those acts of intemperate violence, which debased their character as men. The details of his achievements are to be met with in every history of the war ; it would be superfluous again to repeat them. But, one instance of his atten- tion to a brave and unfortunate Soldier, has not, in my judgment, been sufficiently dwelt upon. Lieutenant Colonel Lee was certainly a man of strong prejudices ; but, where admiration was excited towards a gallant enemy, his generosity was unbounded. Facinated by the consummate skill and bravery of Colonel Browne, in the defence of his post at Augusta, his resolution was immediately fixed, to save him from the fury of an exasperated population, and the better to eflectit, 126 ARMSTRONG. put him under the. safeguard of Armstrong, to conduct him to Savannah. The precaution was the more necessary, as the inveteracy of party, in the neishbour- hood of Augusta, had given birth to a war of exter- mination, and he saw that without such interposition a gallant Soldier, who had committed himself to his enemy, on their plighted faith, would otherwise have been sacrificed. Colonel Grierson of the British militia, had already fallen by an unknown hand ; and to have risked a repetition of the crime, would have subjected the victorious commanders to merited censure and reproach. I have often heard the gallant Armstrong declare, that he never had, in his own opinion, encountered equal peril with that which he experienced on this trying occasion. At every turn preparation was made for death — in every individual who approached, was seen the eager wish to destroy. Resentment was ex- cited to the highest pitch, and called aloud to be appeased by blood. Yet, by dint of good management, by tiie gentleness of persuasion — by forcibly pourtray- ing the duty of humanity to a captured and unresisting foe, and occasionally well applied threats, he saved the contemplated victim, and delivered him in safety to his friends in Savannah. A remarkable scene is said, by Dr. Ramsay, to have occurred on this occasion, which well deserves to be recorded, as exemplifying the firmness of a female, labouring under the deepest affliction of grief. Passing through the settlement where the most wanton waste had recently been made by the British, both of lives and property, a Mrs. M'Koy, having obtained per- mission to speak with Colonel Browne, addressed him in words to tiie following effect : — " Colonel Browne, in the late day of your prosperity, I visited your camp, and on my knees supplicated for the life of my son — but you were deaf to ray intreaties ! You ARMSTRONG. |27 hanged him, though a beardless youth, before my face. These eyes have seen him scalped by the savages under your immediate command, and for no better reason than that his name was M'Koy. As you are a pri- soner to the leaders of my country, for the present I lay aside all thoughts of revenge : but, when you resume you sword, I will go five hundred miles ta demand satisfaction at the point of it, for the murder of my son." While Armstrong remained a prisoner, he was treat- ed, as I have stated, with distinguished politeness. To Colonel Thompson, afterwards Count Rumford, I have heard him express great obligation ; and still more to Commodore Sweeny, whose attentions were such, as none but a generous enemy could have known to bestow. I have only to add, that ever high in the esteem and affection of his associates, admired and respected in every society, he lived beloved, and died lamented. m CAPTAIN O'lNEAL. CAVALRY. O'Neal was one of the Officers of the Legion^ who rose to rank and consideration by the force of extraordinary merit. He entered the army a private trooper in Bland's regiment, and was one of a gallant band who, when Captain Henry Lee was sur[)rised at the Spread-Eagle Tavern, near Philadelphia, reso- lutely defended the position against the whole of the British cavaliy, and ultimately compelled them to retire. Lee, on this occasion, addressing his com- panions, and strenuously urging them rather to die than surrender, added — " Henceforth, I consider the fortune of every individual present, as inseparably 128 O'NEAL. connected with my own ! If we fall, we will fall like brothers! If successful in repelling the enemy, (and it needs but a trifling exertion of your energies to effect it) my fortune and my interest shall be uniformly em- ployed to increase your comforts, and secure your promotion." Nor did he ever swerve from his pro- mise. Appointed, shortly after, with the rank of Major, to the command of a corps of horse, O'Neal and Winston, another of his faithful adherents, re- ceived commissions, and to the last hour of the war, by uniform steadiness of conduct, and exemplary intrepidity, gained increase of reputation. It was said, on this occasion, that Tarleton, making his first essay as a military man, but for the accidental snapping of O'Neal's carbine, would have fallen a victim to a bold effort, which he made to enter by a window at which he was posted, the muzzle of the piece being, at the time, within a foot of his head. Tarleton behaved with great calmness ; for, looking up, he said with a smile, " You have missed it, my lad, for this time ;" and wheeling his horse, joined his companions, ,vho, deceived by a false alarm, were retiring with precipi- tation. CAPTAIN MICHAEL RUDOLPH. INFANTRY. There was not, in the Southern Army, an OfKcer of the same grade, whose activity and daring spirit j)roduced such essential advantages to the service as Michael Rudolph; yet, in the page of history he is scarcely named. I never knew a man, so strictly in- forcing the observance of discipline, who, at the same time, maintained so perfect an ascendancy over the RUDOLPH. 129 affections of his men. He was their idol ; and such was their confidence in his talents and intrepidity, that no enterprise, however hazardous, could be proposed, where he was to be the leader, but every individual in the regiment became anxious to obtain a preference of service. His statue was diminitive ; but from the energy of liis mind, and personal activity, his powers were gigantic. Fully to detail his services, is beyond my ability ; but that he merited the grateful applause of his coun- try, must be allowed, when it is recollected, that he led the forlorn hope, when the post at Paulus' Hook, in full view of the British Garrison at New York, was surprised and carried by Lee ; and that the same peri- lous command was assigned him at the storming of the Stockade Fort at Ninety-Six; that he bore a pre- eminently distinguished part in conducting the sieges of the several Forts reduced in the interior country, and particularly directed that against Fort Cornwallis at Augusta ; that at Guilford his conduct was highly applauded, and that he was conspicuous from his ex- emplary ardour, leading the charge with the bayonet, which broke the British line at Eutaw; that shortly previous to the evacuation of Charleston, he, with sixteen men, took and burnt the Galley protecting the left of the British line at the Quarter House, bringing off twenty-six prisoners; and that, finally, about the same period, fighting hand to hand, he dismounted and made a prisoner of one of the boldest black dragoons em- ployed by the enemy. Such were the Revolutionary services of the Cap- tain, under whose auspices I entered the army, and whose virtues were no less estimable than his public titility At a later period in the war, with the Western In- dians, he served with distinguished reputation ; but, 17 130 RUDOLPH. anxious to provide for an increasing family, he left the service to engage in trade, and sailing on a voyage of speculation to the West Indies, was heard of no more. CAPTAIN HANDY. INFANTRY. Animated by principles as pure and patriotic, Cap- tian Bandy gained distinction by his zealous perform- ance of every duty, and the invincible coolness vi'ith which he encountered danger. His activity contributed very essentially, to the reduction of several of the Forts held by the enemy in the interior country, particularly that at Augusta, where his vigorous charge on the British, who had, by a bold sally, actually possessed themselves of the trenches of the besiegers, caused their expulsion, and precipitate retreat into their posts, from whence they never ventured again. On the re- treat of Lord Rawdon from Ninety-Six, while Lee was endeavouring to gain his front. Handy, deviating a few paces from his command, was seized and carried to a distance by a |)arty of banditti^ who robbed him of his watch, money, and every article of his clothing, leaving him in a state of perfect nudity, to find his way back to his party. The appt^llation which 1 have used is not too harsh ; the ceremony of a parole was, indeed, in- sisted on, and given ; but on application, at an after period, to the British commander for the exchange of Handy, he candidly acknowledged, that he was not known as a prisoner, and that his captors must have been a set of lawless marauders, of whom the British had no knowledge. Captain Handy, again restored to the service, by patient endurance of all the miseries and privations of the last campaign, had great influ- HANDY. 131 ence in tranquillizing the minds of men, driven almost to desperation by famine and disease. The departure of the enemy, at length, closed the scene of calamity. Handy led the van of the troops taking possession of Charleston, and having the command of the main guard, by his arrangement of patrols, and the correct conduct of his men, preserved a tranquillity that could scarcely have been expected, from Soldiers so long deprived of every comfort, who had now a town, rich in spoil, and many oi their most implacable enemies, altogether within their power. To his credit I can assert, that no irregularity was committed — not a murmur heard. LIEUTENANT PETER JOHNSTON. INFANTRY. Imbibing, at a very early period of the Revolu- tionary war, an enthusiastic attachment to the cause of Liberty, and sensible, that the opinions of his father, wdiose political creed sanctioned the pretensions of Britain, would militate against his ardent ambition to serve, Peter Johnson, at the age of sixteen, eloped from his College, and avoiding successfully the pursuit of his tutors, joined the Legion as a volunteer. His eager- ness to acquire military knowledge, and unceasing efforts to obtain distinction, very speedily attracted attention, and obtained for him, the commission to which he aspired, while the whole tenor of his con- duct evinced, that it could not have been more judi- ciously bestowed. He was brave, enterprising, and where duty called, exemplary in its performance. I will give no further proof of it, than his intre{)id con- duct at the siege of the post at Wright's Bluff, where 132 JOHNSTON. the removal of the abbatis, under the immediate fire of the British riflemen, connected with the appalling erection of the Mayham Tower, struck the enemy with so great a panic, as to cause an instantaneous surrender. To the end of the war, he still acquired an increase of reputation, and so completely gained the favour of the parent he had offended, as to be received, on his return to the domestic circle of his family, not only with affection, but pride. Pursuing the study of the Law, he rapidly obtained professional reputation ; and now promoted to a seat on the bench of Judges, is equally admired for the wisdom and justice of his decrees. JOHN MIDDLETON, CORNET IN THE LEGION. Of Middleton, I would speak with justice, equal to his merit. It would, indeed, be a sacred duty were I competent to perform it. He was ever " the man nearest my heart." Brought up together from infancy, and united in our progress through life, by ties of the most disinterested friendship, he was to me as a bro- ther ; and I can with truth assert, that he never obtained an honour, nor progressed a step in public favour, which did not occasion, in my bosom, a sen- sation of delight, as perfect as if the merit had been my own. Every attraction that could induce a man of less exalted feeling, of patriotism less pure, to re- main in England at the commencement of hostilities, were held out to him. Wealth, connexion, preferment courted his acceptance. A living in the established Church, of considerable amount, was his by inheri- MIDDLETON. 133 tance ; but, superior to every selfish consideration, and regarding the violated rights of his country, as injuries to his own honour, he nobly resolved, by the devotion of his life to her service, to become her defender, and ward off the exterminating blow, which the resent- ments of a merciless administration had denounced against her. Quitting Europe, and arriving safely on the American shores, he joined the Southern Army, and offering himself as a volunteer for promotion, speedily exhibited so many instances of gallantry, and so great an ardour for enterprise, as to be rewarded with a Cornetcy in the Legion. No youthful can- didate for fame could ever, with greater success, have acquired the admiration of his superiors, the love of the troops serving under him, the perfect esteem and friendship of his brother Officers. His career was short. He but lived to witness the expulsion of the enemy from our Capital, when seized by a mortal dis- ease, he fell its victim. The regrets of every class of the community, affording the highest proof of his estimable character, his talents, and his virtues. CLEMENT CARRINGTON, OF THE LEGION INFAN^TRY. Perhaps a more striking instance of the irregular action of fear upon the human mind, was never ex- hibited than at the battle of Eutaw. Early in the action, Mr. Clement Carrington, then a volunteer in the Legion, received a wound which incapacitated him from advancing with his corps, successfully charging the British with the bayonet. He was leaning on his spontoon, anxiously regarding the intrepid exertions of 134 CARRINGTON. his companions, when a militiaman, flying from the field, appeared immediately in his front, rushing di- rectly on him with the blind impetuosity of terror. Carrington, finding that he must be overturned, unless he could arrest his flight, crossed his spontoon over his breast, the more effectually to check his progress, and upbraiding his cowardice in an authoritative tone, commanded him to halt. The terrors of the fugitive were too iiighly excited to suffer control, he snatched the weapon opposed to him from the hands of Car- rington, and passing the blade of it through his body, with redoubled speed ran on. To the satisfaction of his friends, the gallant volunteer recovered — was speedily commissioned in the Legion, and at the con- clusion of the war, applying to the study of the i^aw, has since become a distinguished practitioner at the bar of Virginia. DR. MATTHEW IRVINE. It would be difficult to speak with encomitim equal to his merit, of this excellent Oflicer. This is no flattery ; a cursory review of his services, will afford ample proof, that he stands in need of no such aid. He commenced his career, in the cause of Liberty, at the very dawning of hostilities, being one of that dis- tinguished band, who, passing through the wilderness, and surmounting difficulties, such as had never before been encountered by man, appeared suddenly before the lines of Quebec. In the Middle States, he served with great distinc- tion, being present at every action of consequence in the field, and participating in many Partisan enter- prises, highly creditable to the American arms. But, IRVINE. 135 it was in the Southern war that he acquired the highest distinction, not only performing the duties of his pro- fession with consummate skill, and exemplary ten- derness and humanity, but frequently serving as an ab'e negotiator with the enemy, and constantly em- ployed as the confidential agent betwixt the General and the Officers, on whose judgment he chiefly relied, in all consultations where important measures were contemplated, and secrecy regardt^d as essential to success. His great fault, if fault it can be called, was the too great exposure of his person. Possessing an intrepidity that could not be controlled, he was fre- quently to be found in the hottest of the fight ; and it is w( II known, that he was wounded at Quinby, at the head of Armstrong's troop, when his proper sta- tion was in the rear of the army. His military ser- vices ended, the celebrity he had acquired, as a skilful Surgeon and Physician attended him in private life ; and it is no exaggeration to say, that he continues the practice of his profession, with infinite advantage to the i)ublic, and constant increase of his own repu- tation. DR. SKINNER. I HAD, during the last campaign in the South, con- tinued" opportunity of witnessing the eccentricities of this extraordinary character; but while 1 admired his face- tious and entertaining conversation, his exquisite humour, and occasional exhibition of sportive or pointed irony, I could not but consider him as a very dangerous com- panion. Colonel Lee has stated, that he had a dire objection to the field of battle, yet in private society always ready for a quarrel ; it might be truly asserted, 136 SKINNER. that it required infinite circumspection not to come to points with him, since he really appeared to consider tilting as a pleasing pastime, and was (as an Irish soldier once said of him) " an honest fellow, just as ready to fight as eat." In his regiment, and among his intimates, he was regarded as a privileged man, and allowed to throw the shafts of his wit with impunity. This was a fortunate circumstance, as he would at any time rather have risked the loss of his friend, than the opportunity of applying a satirical observation in point. When first he appeared in the lower country, he wore a long beard and huge fur cap, the latter through necessity, the first from some superstitious notion, the meaning of which it was impossible to penetrate. An officer, who really esteemed him, ask- ing him " why he suffered his beard to grow to such an unusual length," he tartly replied, " It is a secret, Sir, betwixt my God and myself, that human imper- tinence shall never penetrate." On a night alarm, at Ninety-Six, as Colonel Lee was hastening forward to ascertain the cause, he met Skinner in full retreat, and stopping him, said, *' what is the matter Doctor, whither so fast — not frightened, I hope?" "No, Colonel, no," replied Skinner, *' not absolutely frightened, but, I candidly confess, most damnably alarmed." His strong resemblance to the character of Falstaff, which Colonel Lee has also noticed, was very remark- able. " He was witty himself, and the cause of wit in others." Like the fat knight, too, in the calcula- tion of chances, not over scrupulous in distinctions betwixt meiim and tun7n; and, I should decidedly say, in his narrations of broils and battles, too much under the influence of Shrewsbury clock. I have seldom met with a man more fond of good and dainty cheer, or a more devoted idolater of good wine; but when they were not to be met with, the plainest food, and most simple liquor, were enjoyed with the highest relish. SKINNER. 137 A lady of the lower country, addressing herself to a yoiin^ officer who had been much accustomed to enjoy every species of luxury, asked, " how he had support- ed the privations experienced during the last campaign in the interior ?" he replied — " That hunger made a simple rasher on the coals, as delicious as the most sumptuous fare, and that where wine could not be obtained, he relished whiskey." " I am grieved, my young friend," said Skinner, with great gravity, " mor- tified, beyond expression, to hear such a declaration from your lips, since it has long been my opinion, that the man who would drink so mean a liquor as whiskey would steal." In person. Skinner was not unlike the represen- tation generally given of Sancho; in his government, exhibiting extravagant pretensions to state and self consequence. Nor was he insensible to the influences of the tender passion. He not only could love, but he believed himself possessed of every requisite to in- spire passion, particularly priding himself upon a roguish leer with the eye, that he deemed irresistible. When disencumbered of his beard, he was presented at Sandy Hill, (the point of attraction to all the mili- tary) to Mrs. Charles Elliott, the amiable and bene- volent hostess of the mansion. The facetious Captain Cams, who was his friend on the occasion, indulging his natural propensity to quiz, pointed her out to Skinner, as an object highly worth the attention of a man of enteri)rise. The bait was attractive, and he bit at it with the eagerness of a hungry gudgeon. On his first appearance. Skinner had shown evident marks of confusion, on account of the uncouth ap- pearance of his cap. Mrs. Elliott had perceived it, and retiring for an instant, returned with an elegant military hat, which she placed on his head, and grace- fully bowing, run off. Skinner was mute with as- tonishment — he looked at the hat, and at the lady, 18 138 SKINNER. and then at the hat again, and turning to his friend^ seemed, in the language of FalstafF, to say — " Her eye did seem to scorch me like a burning glass." The exiiression of his countenance was, to Cams, a sufficient indication of the agitation of his boson*. The hint was not lost. " Well," he feelinii;ly ex- claimed, " if ever a broad and palpable invitation was given, this, certainly, may be considered as such ! Why, Skinner, what charm, what philter do you use to produce such havoc ?" " Fie, fie," said the enrap- tured Doctor, adjusting his dress, and rising upon tip-toe, " Tempt me not, my friend, to make myself ridiculous. Mine is not a figure to attract the atten- tion of a fair lady^ — it cannot, cannot happen !" " I will not," rejoined Cams, " compliment you. Skinner, on your personal attractions. You are a man of sense, a man of discernment, too wise to be flattered ; but I certainly have seen men less elegantly formed than your are, and altogether without that je ne sais qiioi, so fascinating, that you pre-eminently possess ; be- sides, you have a fine, open, healthy countenance, a prepossessing smile, and a prodigiously brilliant and piercing eye." " Ah, ha," cried Skinner, '' have you discovered that? You are a man of penetration ! A man of taste ! Yes, Cams, I have an eye, and if it has its usual trick, its tender expression, (you under- stand what I would say) I may, perhaps, be happy." Cams, for a time, gave indulgence to the effusions of his vanity, but would not suffer him to make himself completely ridiculous. Love was very speedily for- gotten ; and a kind invitation to feel himself at home, in the most hospitable mansion in the State, made Skinner the proudest and happiest of men. Falstaff maintained, that it was proper for every man " to labour in his vocation." Skinner asserted, *' that every man had his sphere of action, beyond the limits of which he ought never to emerge." " Mine," SKINNER. 139 said he, " amidst the tumults of war, the conflicts of battle, is in the rear. — There, I am always to be found. I am firm at my post. What did Matthew Irvine get by quitting his ?* — a wound — a villainous wound ! Shall 1 follow his example, step out of my sphere, and set myself up as a mark to be shot at ? no ! I am a stickler for the strict performance of duty, but feel no ambition to shine beyond it. Being asked, which of the Ladies of South Caro- lina possessed, in his estimation, the greatest attrac- tions ? he very readily replied, " The widow Izard beyond all comparison. I never pass her magnificent sideboard, but the plate seems ready to tumble into my pocket." Arriving near the bank of the river, on the night of the contemplated attack upon John's Island, he was asked, whether he intended to pass the ford ? " By no means," replied Skinner. " I am not fond of ro- mantic enterprise, and will not seek for the perilous achievements where the elements, more than the enemy, are to be dreaded. The river too is deep, and my spirits are not buoyant ; I should sink to a certainty and meet a watery grave. Death by water drinking ! 1 shudder at the thought of it ! I will remain and take care of the baggage ; and as many of you as can boast a change, may be sure to meet, at your return, the comforts of clean linen, and the most cordial wel- come that I can give you." * After the gallant charge made by Captain Armstrong at Quinby Bridge, both himself and his Lieutenant George Carrington, having passed the gap made in it by the enemy, Dr. Matthew IRVI^fE put himself at the head of the dragoons who had failed in the attempt to cross, and made an entire company of the 19th Regiment prisoners, but in the conflict was wounded. 14Q MANNING. LIEUTENANT MANNING, AND OCCURRENCES LEADING TO THE DEFEAT OF COLONEL FYLE. That important consequences have resulted from accidental occurrences, and that achievements have been attributed to foresifi;ht and judgment, which originated in some fortuitous incident, cannot be doubted. The following Anecdote may possibly be dis- believed by some, yet I must record it as doing honour to a fellow-soldier, to whom I was bound by the strict- est ties of friendship. No man who knew Manning would question his veracity, and from his lips I re- ceived it. Nor is it credible, that he would wander into the regions of romance to exalt his reputation, w^hen by the uniformity of his conduct, he was daily adding to the laurels universally acknowledged to be his due. I have besides, in my possession, a letter from my highly valued friend. Judge Johnson of Abingdon, Virginia, at the period of its occurrence, an Officer in the Legion, corroborating the principal fact, though slightly differing in the detail. With regard to the worth and abilities of Manning, his coolness and in- trei)idity, our sentiments are the same. His delineation of his talents and character I regard as perfect. " I never," says the Judge, " knew any man who was more remarkable for that quality, which is called pre- sence of mind. The more sudden the emergency, the greater the danger in which he was unexpectedly placed, the more perfect was his self-possession, as related to the faculties both of body and mind. In corporal vigour and activity, he was exceeded by few ; and there was an ardour about him, which charac- terised every thing that he said or did. If he had enjoyed the advantages of literary culture, he would have been MANNING. 141 as much the object of our admiration every where else, as he was in scenes of danger and military ad- venture." Most of the settlers in North Carolina, in the neigh- bourhood of Cross Creek, now Fayetteville, were emigrants from Scotland, who had brought with them strong prejudices in favour of monarchy. Few among them had imbibed the spirit of Liberty, fostered with with enthusiasm by almost the entire population in their adopted country; but, to the credit of such as professed attachment, it must be remembered, that having once declared in favour of the cause of Ame- rica, none more courageously, zealously, and faithfully supported it. To Scotland, we owe many a gallant Soldier. No other foreign nation contributed so many distinguished Officers in the line of our armies as Scotland. The intrepid Mercer sealed his devotion to our cause with his blood, and died in battle. Lord Sterling, Generals WDougald, Sinclair, Stephens^ ]\rintosh, and Davie, were among the most gallant and strenuous champions of Independence. Knowing these facts, it cannot be imagined, that I could ever cherish or utter a sentiment injurious to a country to which I feel the strongest attachment, and from which I am proud to have derived my origin. A country, whose sons are brave, and daughters virtuous ; where beauty is adorned with its most fascinating perfections, and manhood exhibits a vigour and activity that can- not be surpassed ; where industry has produced an almost incredible influx of wealth, and the energies of mind an increase of literary acquirement, that places human knowledge on an eminence that it had never before attained ; — a country where, as a student in a College of celebrity, I, for four successive years, lis- tened with delight to the eloquence of the amiable and enlightened Miller, teaching, how far more congenial to the best feelings of the iieart, and productive of 142 MANNING. happiness to man, is the purity of genuine Republi- canism, than any system of government that the world has ever known. Where I studied the theory of morals, and witnessed the perfection of their practice, under the immediate protection and tuition of the first of Philosophers, and most virtuous of men, the immortal Dr. Thomas Reid. Where Jardine, the teacher of Eloquence, honoured me with his friend- ship ,* and the liberal kindness of other Professors, of the inhabitants of the city, generally, gave birth to sentiments of gratitude and affection, that can never be effaced. Truly, then, I can assert, that prejudices are unknown in the following narrative : The intrigues and efforts of Lord Cornwallis, to excite insurrection, backed by a very formidable force, had produced among the Highland emigrants a spirit of revolt, which it required all the energies of General Greene to counteract, before it could be matured. — The zeal and activity of Lieutenant Colonel Lee, whose usefulness exceeded calculation, united to his acuteness and happy talent of obtaining intelligence of every movement, and of the most secret intentions of the enemy, pointed him out as the fittest man for this important servico. He was accordingly selected, with orders to impede the intercourse of Lord Cornwallis with the disaffected ; to repress every symptom of revolt, and promptly to cut off every party that should take up arms for Britain. Constantly on the alert, and equally solicitous to give security to his own command, while he harassed the enemy. A secure position was, on one occasion, taken near a forked road, one division of which led directly to Lord Cornwallis' camp, about six miles distant. The ground was chosen in the dusk of evening ; and to prevent surprise, patrols of cavalry were kept out on each fork during the night. An order for a movement before day had been communi- cated to every individual, and was executed with so MANNLNG. 143 little noise and confusion, that Lieutenant Manning, waking at early dawn, found himself, excepting one Soldier, left alone. Stephen Green, the attendant of Captain Cams, lay near him, resting on the portman- teau of his superior, and buried in profound sleep. Being awakened, he was ordered to mount and follow, while Manning, hastening towards the fork, hoped to fall upon the track, and speedily rejoin his regiment. Much rain had fallen during the night, so that, finding both roads equally cut up. Manning chose at hazard, and took the wrong one. He had not proceeded far, before he saw at the door of a log-house, a rifleman leaning on his gun, and apparently placed as a centinel. Gallopping up to him, he inquired if a regiment of horse and body of infantry had passed that way ? " Oh, ho," cried the man, (whistling loudly, which brought out a dozen others completely armed, and carrying each a red rag in his hat,) " you, I suppose, are one of Greene's men." The badge which they bore, marked their principles. Without the slightest indication of alarm, or even hesitation, Manning pointed to the portmanteau carried by Green, and exclaimed — '' Hush, my good fellow — no clamour for God's sake — I have there what will ruin Greene — point out the road to Lord Oornwallis' army, for all depends upon early intelligence of its contents." '^ You are an honest fellow, (was the general cry) and have left the rebels just in time, for the whole settlement are in arms to join Colonel Pyle to-morrow, (naming the place of rendezvous) where Colonel Tarleton w^ill meet and conduct us to camp." " Come," said the man, to whom he had first spoken, " take a drink — Here's confusion to Greene, and success to the King and his friends. This is the right road, and you will soon reach the army ; or rather let me conduct you to it myself." *' Not for the world, my dear fellow," re- plied Manning ; " your direction is plain and I can ]44 MANNING. follow it. I will never consent, that a faithful sub- ject of his Majesty should be subjected to the dangers of captivity or death on my account. If we should fall in with a party of rebels, and we cannnot say that they are not in the neighbourhood now, we should both lose our lives. I should be hanged for desertion, and you for aiding me to reach the British army." This speech produced the effect he desired. The libation concluded, Manning rode off amid the cheers of the company, and when out of sight, crossed to the other road, and urging his horse to full speed, in a short time overtook and communicated the interesting intelli- gence to his commander. Lee was then meditating an attack upon Tarleton, who had crossed the Haw River to support the Insurgents; but, perceiving the vast im- I)ortance of crushing the revolt in the bud, he informed General Greene of his plan by a confidential messen- ger, and hastened to the point of rendezvous, where Pyle, with upwards of four hundred men, had already arrived. It is unnecessary to detail the sanguinary scene which followed. Pyle, completely deceived, and to the last believing the Legionary Dragoons the soldiers of Tarleton, was overpowered, and, with a considerable portion of his force, became victims of credulity. It has been remarked, that " severity at first is often humanity in the end." Its policy, on this occasion, will scarcely be denied. As Lee permitted no pursuit,, many escaped, and speading universal alarm, so com- pletely crushed the spirit of revolt, that opposition to government was put at once and effectually to rest. But had the Insurgents been cut off to a man, would not the* act have been justified on the score of retalia- tion? The provocation would have sanctioned it. To Colonel Buford, but a little before, Tarleton had refused capitulation. Deaf to the voice of clemency, and intent on sh\ughtcr, a charge was made on an un- prepared and unresisting foe. His heart was steeled MANNING. 145 against the claims of mercy, and, as Lee has forcibly said, "it needed but the Indian war-dance, and roast- ing fire, to have placed the tragedy which followed, first in the records of torture and death." Many other proofs could be adduced of Manning's prpsence of mind, and cool intrepidity in action. It is grateful to me to mention one of these. At the battle of Eutaw, after the British line had been broken, and the Old Buffs, a regiment that had boasted of the extraordinary feats that they were to perform, were running from the field, Manning, in the enthusiasm of that valour for which he was so eminently distin- guished, sprang forward in pursuit, directing the pla- toon which he commanded to follow him. He did not cast an eye behind him until he found himself near a large brick house, into which the York Volunteers, commanded by Cruger, were retiring. The British were on all sides of him, and not an American Soldier nearer than one hundred and fifty or two hundred 3^ards. He did not hesitate a moment, but springing at an Officer who was near him, seized him by the collar, and exclaiming in a harsh tone of voice — ** Damn you, sir, you are my prisoner," wrested his sword from his grasp, dragged him by force from the house, and keeping his body as a shield of defence from the heavy fire sustained from the windows, car- ried him off without receiving any injury. Manning has often related, that at the moment when he ex- pected that his prisoner would have made an effort for liberty, he, with great solemnity, commenced an enu- meration of his titles — " I am Sir, Henry Barry, Deputy Adjutant General of the British Army, Captain in the 52d Regiment, Secretary to the Com- mandant of Charleston." " Enough, enough, sir," said the victor, " you are just the man I was looking for ; fear nothing for your life, you shall screen me from danger, and I will take special care of t/ow.'' 19 146 MANNING. He had retired in this manner some distance from the brick house, when he saw Captain Robert Joiett of the Virginia line, engaged in single combat with a British Officer. They had selected each other for battle a little before, the American armed with a broad sword, the Briton with a musket and bayonet. As they came together, a thrust was made at Joiett, which he happily parried, and both dropping their artificial weapons, being too much in contact to use them with effect, resorted to those with which they had been furnished by nature. They were both men of great bulk and vigour, and while struggling, each anxious to bring his adversary to the ground, a grenadier who saw the contest, ran to the assistsnce of his Officer, made a longe with his bayonet, missed Joiett's body, but drove it beyond the curve into his coat. In attempting to withdraw the entangled weapon, he threw both the combatants to the ground ; when get- ting it free, he raised it deliberately, determined not to fail again in his purpose, but to transfix Joiett. It was at this crisis that Manning approached — not near enough, however, to reach the grenadier with his arm. In order to gain time, and to arrest the stroke, he ex- claimed in an angry and authoritative tone — " You damn'd brute, will you murder the gentleman ?" The Soldier, supposing himself addressed by one of his own Officers, suspended the contemplated blow, and looked around to see the person who had thus spoken to him. Before he could recover from the surprise with which he had been thrown. Manning, now suffi- ciently near, smote him with his sword across the eyes, and felled him to the ground ; while Joiett dis- engaged himself from his opponent, and snatching up the musket, as he attempted to rise, laid him dead by a blow from the butt end of it. Manning was of inferior size, but strong and remarkably well formed. Joiett, literally speaking, a giant. This, probably, MANNING. 147 led Barry, who could not have wished the particulars of his capture to be commented on, to reply, when asked by his brother Officers, how he came to be taken, " I was overpowered by a hu^e Virginian.'** The reputation of a Soldier, so highly distinguished both for valour and discernment, whose firmness enabled him, in all emergencies, to maintain a com- posure that neither difficulty nor danger could disturb, has caused the honour of giving birth to Manning to be claimed both by Ireland and America. If my re- collection is accurate, he certainly declared himself a native of Carlisle in Pennsylvania. Yet, when I remember the general tenor of his conversation — " the facility he possessed of involving in obscurity, the subject he meant to elucidate" — the accent on his tongue — the peculiar turn of his expression — his call- ing for example to his servant, walking with naked feet over ground covered by a heavy frost — " Shall I never teach you discretion. Drone ! — If you will go barefoot, why the Devil don't you put on your blue stockings." And on another occasion, returning to camp, and looking at a bottle of spirits, half emptied^ which he had left full — " Speak quickly. Drone, you big thief, and tell me what you have done with the remainder of my liquor ?" My opinion is staggered, and I am inclined to acknowledge the superior claims of Ireland. * Henry Barry was an eccentric character. He aimed at singularity in words as well as actions. He would send " his betfermost kind of compliments" to a lady ; and, in a simple flower, present '' the sweetest o( all possible flowers." But in nothing was his conduct regarded as so farcical, as in his claim to deli- cate and liberal feelings. On one occasion, it has been stated, that reading a Poem, of his own composition, on the blessings of Liberty, a gentleman present asked him frankly, " How his actions could be so much at variance with the principles he professed r" " Because, Sir," he unblushingly replied, " I am a Soldier of Fortune, seeking a snug and comfortable establishment. My feelings are as delicate as yours, or any other man's ; but I never suflfer myself to be humbugged by them." The day at Eutaw was certainly not his fighting day ; but he is said to have distinguished himself in India. 148 MANNING. Manning, at the conclusion of the war, married into a highly respectable family, and settled in South Caro- lina. His attachment to a military life continuing unabated, he became a candidate for the appointment of Adjutant General of the Militia of the State, ob- tained it, and performed the important duties attacheci to it, with the applause of the public, till his death. SOLDIERS OF THE LEGION. Having briefly sketched the characters, and detailed the services ol several of the Officers of the Legion, I am confident that I shall gratify my readers, by recording a few interesting Anecdotes re- lating to the Soldiers of that corps. In proportion as they were removed from that rank in society, in which an enlargement of ideas, and expansion of mind was to be looked for, must be their merit, who, under the exalted influences of military and patfiQtic enthusiasm, evinced a nobleness of soul, and chivalric intrepidity, increasing their own fame, and giving a higher stamp of celebrity to the American character. I fondly hope, that they will be re- ceived with cordiality by every patriotic bosom. SERGEANT WHALING. When the importance of wresting the possession of the Stockade Fort at Ninety-Six from the enemy, was clearly ascertained, Lieutenant Colonel Lee, to whom the charge of directing all operations against it, was intrusted by General Greene, adopted (it must be acknowledged too hastily) the opinion, that it might be effected by fire. Accordingly, Sergeant Whaling, a gallant non-commissioned Officer, who had served with zeal and fidelity from the commencement of the war, and whose period of enlistment would have ex- pired in a few days, with twelve privates, were sent forward in open day, and over level ground that afforded no cover to facilitate their approaches, to accomplish this hazardous enterprise. Whaling saw 150 WHALING. with certainty, the death on which he was about to rush, but by the prospect of which he was unappalled. He dressed himself neatly — took an affectionate but cheerful leave of his friends, and with his musket swung over his shoulder, and a bundle of blazing pine torches in his hand, sprung forward for the object of his attack. His alacrity inspired the little band with courage. They followed him closely up to the build- ing around which the Stockade was erected, before the troops within fired a shot. Their aim was deli- berate and deadly. But one individual escaped with life. Whaling fell deeply lamented by every Officer and Soldier of the Legion. Instead of the rash and unavailing exposure to which he was subjected, all admitted his just claim to promotion — grieved that his valuable life was not preserved for those services he had so often shown himself so capable of rendering. Poor Whaling ! — the Soldier's cherished hope was denied him, " When all his toils were past, " Still to return, and die at home at last." SERGEANT MITCHELL. It was at Ninety-Six also, that another Soldier of distinguished merit lost his life, and unhappily under circumstances peculiarly distressing. Captain Michael Rudolph commanded the detachment of the infantry on duty on the night after the arrival of the Legion from Augusta, where the corps had been employed, during the early part of the siege of the post now threatened, in bringing Colonel Browne, and his command, to terms of submission. Sergeant Mitchell went the rounds with Rudolph, after having two hours before planted MITCHELL. 151 the centinels at tlieit* posts. Unhappily, among them were several militiamen, who had never before seen service. One of these, without challenging, fired at the relief with which Rudolph and Mitchell were appro:ich- ing his position, and shot Mitchell through the body. He fell to the ground — told his Captain that he w^s mortally wounded — warmly pressed his hand — asked if he had ever neglected or omitted any of the duties of a faithful Soldier and true Patriot — regretted that he had not closed his life on the field of battle, and con- juring him to bear evidence, that he died without fear, and without a groan, expired ! He was a Virginian from the County of Augusta. I fondly hope that this tribute to his memory, may reach his friends. Wha- ling was a Pennsylvanian. BULKLEY AND NEWMAN. Among the incidents in the Southern Army, that excited the highest interest, was the singular and romantic friendship which united two of the most dis- tinguished Soldiers of the Legionary Cavalry. Bulkley and Newman were natives of Virginia, born in the same neighbourhood, and from early infancy united by such a congeniality of sentiment, that it almost appeared as if one soul gave animation to both. Their attachment increased with their years — it strengthened with their strength. As school-fellows they w ere inseparable ; their task was the same, and he who was first perfect in acquiring it, was unhappy till he had impressed it, with equal force, on the mind of his friend. When an appeal to arms, at the dawn of our Revolution, had called forth the youthful heroes of America to fight the battles of their country, and defend her violated 152 BULKLEY AND NEWMAN. rights, both, on the same day, and animated with the same enthusiastic devotion to lier cause, were enrolled in the ranks of her armies. The officers of the Legion, who yet survive, can testify, that through all the perils j and difficulties of the Southern War, each seemed more anxious for the safety and alleviation of the sufferings of his friend, than of his own. In action they invaria- bly fought side by side ; in the more tranquil scenes of encampment, they were constantly engaged in the same pursuits; their toils and their pleasures were the same. When at Quinby, the memorable charge was made on the 19th British Regiment, by the intrepid Armstrong, Bulkley and Newman were among the few Dragoons, who, having leapt the gap in the bridge, which the enemy were industriously attempting to widen, were able to support their commander. The display of gal- lantry exhibited could not have been surpassed. Arm- strong, seconded by George Carrington, his Lieuten- ant, his gallant Sergeant Power, the brave Captain M'Cauly, of the militia, and less than a dozen of his own troopers, actually cut his way through the entire regiment, when a heavy and fatally directed fire pro- duced a most direful catastrophe. Power fell despe^ rately wounded; and the youthful friends, Bulkley and Newman, closed their brilliant career in the path of glory for ever. Mortally wounded at the same instant^ they fell on the same spot, and, with united hands, reciprocating kindness to the last, expired. CORPORAL COOPER. Making a tour to the North, in the year 1817, I was invited to visit the Franklin, then lying at Chester, in company with the Commodores Murray and Dale, COOPER. 153 and several other officers of distinction. On our pas- sage to the ship, some mention beini^ made of Carolina, a naval officer present, said, *' I do not believe there exists at this day, an individual who has a more perfect knowledge of the Southern War of the Revolution than myself, particularly, all that relates to the battles fought in the Carolinas. I entered those States with the Le- gion commanded by Harry Lee, and witnessed the conclusion of our toils at the evacuation of Charles- ton." '* Under such circumstances, Sir," I immediately replied, " it must be my good fortune to be in company with an old companion, for I had the honour of hold- ing a commission in the infantry of that regiment, and was, like yourself, attached to the command which took possession of Charleston, when given up by the British." " 1 aai, Sir," rejoined the officer, '* alto- gether at a loss, even to guess at your name ; nor do I recollect ever to have seen you before. Attached to the Legion, you must have known Armstrong, who commanded the Sorrel Troop, and have probably heard of Corporal Cooper^ who belonged to it." " Good heavens. Cooper," I exclaimed, with delight, " is it you ? I now am astonished at my own forgetful ness, for I as thoroughly recognise you as if we had parted but yesterday !" I mentioned my name in turn, and was happy to find that I was not forgotten by him. I am confident that, on this occasion, the sensation of delight and good feeling to men who had served and suffered together, was strongly experienced by both. The surprise and satisfaction of the moment being at an end, Cooper, with a significant smile, said, " By the by, 1 believe you were one of the officers who sat on the court-martial when I was in jeopardy, and brought to trial at our encampment, near the Ashley River." *' No, Cooper," I replied, " I was not ; though I well remember, on another occasion, when we lay at M'Pherson's, that, in consequence of your -" 20 154 COOPER. " Husb, hush, my dear Sir," he exclaimed, " I find that you have an excellent and accurate memory, the less we say on that subject the better." I had known Cooper well ; and it is no exaggeration to assert, that a more gallant Soldier never wielded a sabre. The character, indeed, of consummate intrepidity, distin- guished every individual of Armstrong's troop. Dis- ciplined by him, and animated by his example, they were invincible. But there were particular traits that characterized Cooper, that entitled him to still higher commendation. If activity and intelligence were re- quisite to obtain information — if gallantry to strike a Partisan blow, Cooper was always uppermost in the thoughts of Lee. He had a soul for enterprise, and by prompt discernment, and a happy facility of calculating from appearances of events to happen, of incalculable utility to the service. When Armstrong, by the falling of his horse, was made a prisoner, and a flag sent out from the British Commander to say, that his servant and baggage would be expected, as he wished to show every civility to an enemy, whose bravery could only be exceeded by his generosity to all who fell into his power, Cooper w^as immediately directed by Lee, to act the part of a domestic, and sent forward for the purpose. I mentioned my recollection of the circum- stance to Cooper, who replied, " and well I knew my Colonel's motives ;" and so perfectly was I disposed to second his views, that while taking the refreshment which was ordered for me by General Leslie, in the front of his quarters near the British lines, I was closely examining the course of a creek in his rear, by which I flattered myself, I should very speedily be able to conduct and introduce him at the Head-Quar- ters of our own army." He then went onto say — *' The arts used by a Captain Campbell, who tried every manner of cajoling, to pick out of my conversation intelligence of our force and position, very highly COOPER. 155 amused me. I acted the simpleton's part so naturally, that I could clearly perceive, that he believed me com- pletely entang;led in his toils. When suddenly chang- ing my manner, I gave him such a burlesque and exaggerated an account of troops of dragoons and regiments of infantry, that had no existence but in my own imagination, that perceiving my drift, he angrily exclaimed, " Damn you, you rascal, you are too cun- ning for me. Here, take a drink of grog and depart." I cannot conjecture why it was done ; but finding that I was not to be deceived, I think that they might have done me the credit to suppose, that I was not to be intimidated ; but, instead of conducting me to my Captain, I was led to, and shut up in the Provost, when looking through the bars, I perceived Armstrong passing merrily along with several Naval Officers, who seemed to vie with each other in civility to him. My situation forbid ceremony, so I called out lustily — ** Hollo, Captain Armstrong ! pray have the goodness to tell me, is it you or / that am a prisoner ?" My speech produced an explanation. I was immediately released ; and profitting by every occasion to store my mind with useful intelligence, in a few days left the Garrison, a partial exchange having freed my Captain from captivity. My fortunes have since varied very much. I have gained nautical information — have commanded a ship of my own — have, as a Naval Officer, supported the flag of my country — and now the war being over, find a snug birth in the Navy Yard. My varied life would greatly amuse could 1 detail it, more especially, as its constant bustle but ill accords with my religious principles ; for, though you might not suspect it, whenever my thoughts take a serious turn, I am professedly a member of the Society of Friends, a genuine homespun Quaker." 156 ORD. Although the expedition against Georgetown, con- ducted by General Marion and Lieutenant Colonel Lee, was not, from a combination of adverse circum- stances, crowned with success. Although the flight of a guide, who had engaged to conduct Captain Arm- strong and the dragoons of the Legion to a point, which would have effectually prevented the British Soldiers, who had escaped the Legionary Infantry, from rracliing a redoubt that afforded perfect security, had given ample grounds for the suspicion of treachery, and disconcerted the plans that had promised the most perfect triumph ; yet, advantages arose from it of con- siderable consequence to the American cause. Colo- nel Campbell, the Commandant, was taken, and about seventy men either killed or made prisoners. It con- vinced the British, that however great the distance by which they were removed from their enemy, (the Con- tinental Army being, at the period of attack, on the borders of North Carolina) that they were still vul- nerable, and at every moment subject to attack. It checked their marauding, predatory expeditions, gave comparative security to the oppressed inhabitants in their vicinity, and to themselves, full assurance, that to be safe, they must continue inactive, and remain within the limits of their Garrison. It is pleasing to me, to record the singular gallantry of a most meri- torious Soldier, who, on this occasion, gained high renown. SERGEANT ORD. In every instance where this heroic Soldier was engaged in action, he not only increased his own repu- tation, btU animated those around him by his lively courage. In camp, on a march, and in every situa- ORD. 157 tion, he performed all his duties with cheerfulness and vivacity, preserving always the most orderly conduct, and keeping his arms, accoutrements, and clothing in the neatest possible condition. He might, indeed, be considered a perfect Soldier. At the surprise of Georgetown, being with a small party of the Legion Infantry, in possession of aa inclosure, surrounding a house from which they had expelled the enemy, the recovery of the position was sought by a British force, whose leader, approaching the gate of entrance, exclaiaied — " Rush on, my brave fellows, they are only worthless militia, and have no bayonets." Ord immediately placed himself in front of the gate, and as they attempted to enter, laid six of his enemies, in succession, dead at his feet, crying out ac every thrust — " No bayonets here — none at all to be sure !" following up his strokes with such rapi- dity, that the British party could make no impression,, and were compelled to retire. PERRY SCOTT. There was no Soldier in the Legion Infantry, who appeared more completely to have gained the favour of Lieutenant Colonel Lee, than Perry Scott. His chief merit consisted in his consummate intrepidity, and readiness to engage in hardy enterprise. As often as a Partisan expedition was in contemplation, he was invariably selected as one of the daring spirits to insure success. I am tempted to call for the pity of his countrymen for his untimely end, from the recol- lection, that in all the battles of the South, from the junction of the Legion with the army of General Greene, till the final retreat of the enemy, he was 158 SCOTT. noticed for distinguished valour and activity. He was present at the evacuation of Charleston, and shortly after disbanded ; but, devoted to a military life, a^ain enlisted with his former commander, Michael Ru- dolph, then at the head of a Legionary Corps, under the orders of General Harmar, and as Sergeant Major acquitted himself with reputation. The Indian War terminated, Scott knowing, that many of the Officers of the Partisan Legion of Lee, and several of his old associates, had settled in Caro- lina and Georgia, resolved to visit them, and actually reached the Cheraws with that intention. Here, for the sake of repose, after a wearisome journey, he took up his quarters at a Public House, kept by an old Sol- dier, once attached to the volunteers of Ireland, the corps commanded by Lord Rawdon. An amicable intercourse, for a time, increased the attachment of these veterans to each other. Scott eulogized the bravery of the Irish, and his companion was lavish in his commendation of the Soldiers of the Legion, when unluckily drawing comparisons relative to the merits of their respective corps, a serious quarrel ensued, which they immediately determined to settle by the sword. The conflict was maintained with spirit and obstinacy, audits result long doubtful, but Scott gain- ing a superiority and actively maintaining it, was about to triumph, when the wife of his adversary in- terfering, and putting a loaded pistol into her husband's hand, he discharged it at poor Scott, who fell dead at his feet. This conflict being considered as the settle- ment of a point of honour, no eflbrt had been made to prevent it, but the survivor was now arrested, and being shortly after tried for murder, was condemned and executed* PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE, AND PRISONERS CONFINED AS SUBJECTS FOR RETALIATION. While such applause is bestowed on Revolutionary characters, distinguished in the field of glor}^, I con- sider it equally a duty, and it is altogether congenial to my inclination, to express my high admiration of the illustrious patriots, who, in defiance of the varied species of oppression by which they were incessantly goaded, adhered, with unshaken resolution, to the principles they had pledged themselves to support. History affords no example of magnanimity, that can surpass the firmness and patient suffering of the in- trepid associates, who, selected as objects of peculiar severity, and more refined persecution, were accused of imaginary crimes, and, in violation of the capitula- tion of Charleston, and every principle of good faith, torn from their families, and exiled to St. Augustine. It has been said, that constancy will give place to despair, when suffering appears without end. To find them, therefore, firm in duty, and meeting their fate with that intrepid assurance which could alone result from greatness of soul, and a consciousness of correct and irreproachable conduct, must, as long as mankind possess sense to perceive, and virtue to approve, the beauty of patriotic worth and excellence, secure to them the gratitude and veneration of their country. This inhuman and unjustifiable measure is said to 160 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. have been adopted expressly to ascertain the firmness and constancy of the American character. What was the result? Did tyranny produce submission? Did integrity lose its dominion in the patriotic heart? O, no! The reverses of fortune afforded a more ample field for the display of their exalted magnanimity; and they never appeared less appalled, nor inclined to bend with submission to the yoke, than at the period when not a ray gleamed in perspective, to cheer them through the dark terrors of the storm. Not an individual shrunk from his duty. It is due to their exemplary firmness to be a little more particular relative to the suffering they were com- pelled to endure. When all the exiles (with the exception of General Gadsden, who steadily persisted in his resolution to qnter into no new engagement with men who had once deceived him) had given their paroles to confine them- selves within certain prescribed limits, and to with- hold, until exchanged, all active opposition to the British authorities. The commanding officer of the garrison, as if distrustful of their sincerity, issued an order, that they should attend, at roll-call, thrice every day, in these insulting words : " St. Augustine, September iGtli, 1780. GENERAL ORDERS. " The Rebel Prisoners are to appear at gun-fire in the evening, and at guard mounting in the morning, at the Town House, where the Commissary will attend, and call the roll of every name, and report to the Captain of the day if any be absent. " They are to put some badge of distinction on their Negroes, and other domestics, so that they may be known. " No Rebel uniform, or any coats in imitation of British or French Regimentals, to be worn by any of them. PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 161 " If any Soldier is seen or known to associate with any of the Rebels, he shall be brought to a Court Martial, and tried for a dis- obedience of orders. " By order of the Commanding Officer, " WM. FLOYER, Lieutenant, " Acting Adjutant in the 60th Regiment. " To Wm. Brown, Esq. " Commissary of Prisoners." Additional severities were constantly imposed ; but none that so highly aggravated misfortune, as an order which forbid the worship of the Deity. This was at first communicated by a verbal message, but was speedily followed by a direct order to Mr. Brown, the Commissary of Prisoners to this effect. ; " St. Augustine, November 18th, 1780. " Sir, " Having been informed that the Rebel Prisoners have very improperly held private meetings for the purpose of performing Di- vine Service, agreeably to their rebellious principles, and as such proceedings are thought highly injurious to His Majesty's Govern- ment, and of seditious tendency, and an infringement of their pledge of honour : I desire you will acquaint them, that such meetings will not be allowed, and that seats will be provided for their reception in the Parish Church, where it is expected they will observe the utmost decency. You are also to mention to these gentlemen, that I consider messages delivered by you of sufficient weight and authenticity, and that it is in compliance with your request, that I descend to this man- ner of satisfaction, which Lieutenant Colonel Glazier also desires may be understood to be expressive of his sentiments. (Signed) " PAT TONYN. " To Wm. Brown, Esq. " Commissary of Prisoners of War." It is unnecessary for me to comment on this out- rageous insult both to God and man. I will content myself by giving an extract from the diary of the vene- 21 IQ2 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. rable Mr. Josiah Smith, which plainly, but forcibly, speaks its effc-ct upon the minrl of a pious man. *' Behold the act of a British Governor ; an act neither charitable in its nature, nor pious in its inten- tion. Totally unworthy of the Christian character, and even short of Heathen tenderness and forbearance. For we read in Scripture, Acts chap, xxviii. ver. 30 and 31, 'that Paul, then a prisoner in Rome, dwelt for two whole years in his own hired house, and re- ceived all that came unto him, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concerned the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man for- bidding liim.^ This only was our desire — and this we think was our duty; to spend a part of every Sabbath in holy adoration of the Divine Being, who not only created, but daily preserveth us, and in tender mercy supplies all our wants. But we are charged with pro- ceedings of a seditious tendency, and violation of our paroles and pledge of honour. This we absolutely deny, having carefully avoided to require any thing tending that way from our reader and preacher, either in ser- mons or prayers. Once, indeed, some expressions in the latter were made use of by the reader, contrary to, the expectations of the company, but never again re- peated; nor did we once court or enjoy the presence of any inhabitant in our Sabbath assemblies. But that we might not plead the entire want of religious wor- ship, we are ' invited to attend the Parish Church, where seats will be provided for us, and where it was expected that we should observe the utmost decency.^ This is, indeed, an insult upon our understandings; for, can it be expected, that we could, with the least sin- cerity, join in prayer for the daily destruction or dis- apr)ointed efforts of our brethren and friends, or im- plore success for a man that had countenanced every kind of oppression and cruelty towards our friends and connexions, and all with a view of enslaving us and PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 163 our posterity, and to whom we have sworn, that we will never be subject while we can have the power of remaining free citizens of the United States of Ame- rica. Such worship would indeed be no better than solemn mockery ; therefore, rather than join in such hypocritical petitions, and perhaps be insulted with sermons calculated to affront us, we have resolved to refuse our attendance on Divine worship, at the Parish Church, and patiently put up with the loss of paying our devotions publicly, and at our own dwellings silently to spend our returning Sabbaths, in the best manner we can, by reading and meditation, until it shall please the Almighty disposer of all events, to restore us again to peace, and to our afflicted families and friends." But how shall I find expression to do justice to the heroes, who, arrested as objects of retaliation, in the event of General Greene's carrying into effect his threat relative to the execution of Colonel Hayne, were shut up in prison-ships, and kept in momentary expec- tation of death. Allowed to forward an address to the American General, whose highly excited resent- ments the British commanders were anxious to depre- cate. They urge not, as might have been expected, the adoption of measures which would ensure their safety, but raised by their magnanimity above the ter- rors of an infamous and public execution, alone lament, " that if it be the lot of all or any of them to be sacri- ficed, that their blood cannot be disposed of more to the advancement of the glorious cause to which they had adhered." Where, in the annals of the world, shall we find an instance of more exalted patriotism. The highly eulogized self-devotion of Regulus, which immortalized his name, and added lustre to the reputa- tion of his country, when compared with such a dis- play of magnanimity, shrinks into insignificance. The Roman had been remarkable for the severity of his 164 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. manners, and would have been the last to excuse the failures of another; he therefore preferred a death which would obliterate from the minds of his country- men the recollections of his misfortunes, and even exalt him in their opinion, to a life which could only subject him to neglect, and the severer pangs of self- reproach. But, in this instance, not a solitary in- dividual, but a band of heroes, regardless of their own safety, bid defiance to the malignity of their persecu- tors, and calmly solicit, that no consideration of their sufferings, should alter the resolutions that the Ameri- can General had adopted as necessary to the main- tenance of the honour and interests of his country. It must be acknowledged, that the conduct of the officers of the Continental Line, composing the army of General Greene, gives them a title to distinguished encomium. Regardless of the conse- quences to which, in case of capture, they would be exposcil, they come forward with unanimity, and earn- estly solicit that prompt retaliation should avenge the murder of a heroic soldier, and for ever put down the wish to renew such sanguinary proceedings. " We are not," they say, *' unacquainted that such a measure will involve our lives in additional dangers, but we had rather forego temporary distinctions, and commit our- selves to the most desperate situations, than prosecute this just and necessary war, upon terms so unequal and dishonourable." This proceedure was highly gratify- ing to General Greene, but scorning to increase the miseries of the deluded loyalists who had joined the British standard, he resolved to retaliate on the Regu- lar Officers alone. Fortunately for those who had been designated as the proper objects of resentment, no one of equal rank with Colonel Mayne was ever after made a prisoner. I well remember when Major Skelly, of the 71st regiment, was taken, report had given him higher rank — he was called Colonel Skelly. PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 165 When ascertained that he was really a Major, General Greene, whose mind was evidently extremely agitated, said, " I rejoice at the circumstance, as he has the reputation of having always conducted himself with humanity, and like a gentleman. Had he been a Co- lonel, he must have suffered." My admiration of patriotism is such, that I make no excuse for giving the names of the persons, who, by their virtuous example, may teach the rising genera- tion how to act and hovv to suffer for the honour and prosperity of our Republic. EXILES TO ST. AUGUSTINE. Edward Blake, John Budd, Joseph Bee, Richard Beresford, John Berwick, Robert Cochran, Benjamin Cudvvorth, Henry Crouch, John Splatt Cripps, Ed- ward Barrel, Daniel De Saussure, John Edwards, Thomas Ferguson, George Flagg, Christopher Gads- den, Lieutenant Governor ; William H. Gibbes, Tho- mas Grimball, G. A. Hall, William Hall, Thomas Hall, Thomas Heyward, jun. Isaac Holmes, Richard Hutson, William Johnson, Noble Wimberly Jones, William Lee, Rev. John Lewis, William Logan, Wil- liam Livingston, John Loveday, Riciiard Lushington, Arthur Middleton, William Massey, Edward M'Crea- dy, Alexander Moultrie, John Morrall, John Neufville, Edward North, Joseph Parker, John Ernest Poyas, Samuel Prioleau, Jacob Read, Hugh Rutledge, Ed- ward Rutledge, Benjamin Postell, John Sausum, Thomas Savage, Thomas Singleton, Josiah Smith, Philip Smith, James Hamden Thomson, Peter Timo- thy, John Todd, Anthony Toomer, Benjamin Waller, James W^akefield, Edward Weyman, Morton Wilkinson. Of these distinguished citizens, five only survive, viz : Josiah Smith, Robert Cochran, George Flagg, AV. H. Gibbes, and John Todd. 166 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. PRISONERS OiN BOARD THE PRISON-SHIP TORBAY. William Axson, Samuel Ash, George Arthur, John Anthony, Ralph Atmore, John Baddeley, Peter Boun- iietheau, Henry Benbridge, Joseph Ball, Nathaniel Blundell, James Bricken, Francis Bayle, William Bas- quin, John Clarke, jun. Thomas Cooke, Norwood Conyers, James Cox, John Dorsuis, Joseph Dunlap, Rev. James Edmonds, Thomas Elliott, Joseph Elliott, John Evans, John Eberley, Joseph Glover, Francis Grott, Mitchell Gargil, William Graves, Peter Gue- rard, Jacob Henry, David Hamilton, Thomas Harris, William Hornby, Daniel Jacoby, Charles Kent, Sam- uel Lockhart, Nathaniel Lebby, Thomas Lislor, Tho- mas Legare, John Lesesne, Henry Lybert, John Mi- chael, John Minott, sen. Samuel Miller, Stephen Moore, George Monck, Jonathan Morgan, Abraham Mariett, Solomon Milner, John Neufville, jun. Philip Prioleau, James Poyas, Job Palmer, Joseph Robinson, Daniel Rhody, Joseph Righton, William Snelling, John Stephenson, jun. Paul Snyder, Abraham Seavers, Ripley Singleton, Samuel Scottowe, Stephen Shrews- bury, John Saunders, James Tousseger, Paul Taylor, Sims Wliite, James Wilkins, Isaac White, George Welch, Benjamin AVheeler, William Wilkie, John Weleh, Thomas You. PRISONERS ON BOARD THE SCHR. PACK-HORSE. John Barnwell, Edward Barnwell, Robert Barn- well, William Brandfbrd, John Blake, Thomas Coch- ran, Josepii Gray, Ptobert Dewar, William De Saus- sure, Thomas Eveleigh, John Edwards, jun. John W. Edwards, William Elliott, Benjamin Guerard, Tho- mas Grayson, Thomas Gibbons, Philip Gadsden, John Greaves, William H. Henr}^, John B. Holmes, William PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. 167 Holmes, Thomas Hughes, James Heyward, George Jones, Henry Kennon, John Kean, Stephen Lee, Philip Meyer, George Mosse, William Neufville, John Owen, Charles Pinckney, jun. Samuel Smith, William H. Wigg, Charles Warham, Thomas Waring, jun. Richard Waring, John Waters, David Warham, Rich- ard Yeadon. There are still other Patriots to be added to the list of persons subjected to peculiar persecution. The dreary vaults of the Provost were assigned to them as a residence, and in some cases, with the additional incumbrance of heavy irons. The Colonels Stark and Beard, Captain Moore, Mr. Pritchard, Messrs. Peter Boquet, Samuel Legare, Jonathan Sarazin, Henry Peronneau, Daniel Stevens, and others, who, incapable of deserting the cause of their country, had shown no disposition to submission, were regarded as the proper objects on whom it was expedient to try the effect of coercion. They underwent the trial, the ordeal of persecution, without the slightest dereliction of j)rinciple, their patriotic virtue retained its purity to the last. THE ANCIENT BATTALION OF ARTILLERY. Wheresoever a display of patriotic devotion to the service of their country, has distinguished any association of Citizens, it has been peculiariy grateful to me to record it. I consider it a tribute justly due to the Charleston Ancient Battalion of Artillery, to state, that their patient endurance of difficulties, their active exertions in the field, gained them, through- 168 PATRIOTS IN THE CIVIL LINE. out the war, a continued increase of reputation. — Their exemplary gallantry in the action near Beaufort, where a considerable British force under Gairdner, was defeated by General Moultrie, and steady conduct on the Lines during the siege of Charleston, when the defence of the Horn-Work was particularly intrusted to them, must, for ever, redound to their credit. Nor is it less honourable to them to find, in the list of Exiles banished to vSt. Augustine, and persons selected for peculiar persecution, and sentenced to close con- finement in the Provost and Prison-Ships, the names of all their Officers without an exception, and very many of the Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates of the Battalion. They were the only volunteer corps of the Militia that remained, at the conclusion of the war, unbroken ; and after the evacuation of Charleston by the enemy, being speedily reorganized and recruited, have continued to preserve their high and merited reputation. It is a pleasure to me to give the names of the Officers in command at the resto- ration of peace. Thomas Grimball, Major. Thomas Heyward, Captain. Edward Rutledge, do. Anthony Toomer, do. William H. Gibbes, Captain Lieutenant. Sims White, Lieutenant. Edward Neufville, do. Peter Bounetheau, do. William Morgan, do. John D. Miller, do» Edward Weyman, do. Daniel Stevens, do. Charles Warham, do. GADSDEN. 169 GENERAL GADSDEN. The conduct of the British commanders towards this venerable patriot, in the strongest manner evinced their determination rather to crush the spirit of oppo- sition, than by conciliation to subdue it. The man did not exist to whose delicate sense of honour, even a shadow of duplicity would have appeared more abhor- rent than General Gadsden. Transported by an arbi- trary decree, with many of the most resolute and influential citizens of the Republic, to St. Augustine, attendance on parade was peremptorily demanded ; when a British officer stepping forward, said, '' Ex- pediency, and a series of political occurrences, have rendered it necessary to remove you from Charleston to this place ; but, gentlemen, we have no wish to increase your sufferings; to all, therefore, who are willing to give their paroles, not to go bej^ond the limits prescribed to them, the liberty of the town will be allowed ; a dungeon will be the destiny of such as refuse to accept the indulgence." The proposition was generally acceeded to. But when General Gads- den was called to give this new pledge of faith, he in- dignantly exclaimed, " With men who have once de- ceived me, I can enter into no new contract. Had the British commanders regarded the terms of the capitula- tion of Charleston, I might now, although a prisoner, under my own roof, have enjoyed the smiles and con- solations of my surrounding family ; but even without a shadow of accusation proffered against me, for any act inconsistent with my plighted faith, I am torn from them, and here, in a distant land, invited to enter into new engagements. I will give no parole." " Think better of it, Sir," said the officer, " a second refusal of it will fix your destiny — a dungeon will be your 22 no GADSDEN, future habitation.'' " Prepare it, then," said the in- flexible patriot, *' I will give no parole, so help me Godr An opposition to the arbitrary mandate of the pre- vailing authorities, was estimated as a crime too flagrant to pass unpunished. The rectitude of his character, the respectability of his age, afforded no plea in his favour ; he was immediately sepai-ated from his companions in misfortune, and for the remaining period of his captivity, condemned to pass his days in solitary confinement. It was not, however, for perse- cution to daunt and overcome a mind as firm in patriotic virtue as his. Patient under every insult, he felt the pressure of tyranny, but bent not beneath its weight. He uttered no sigh, he made no remonstrance, nor deigned to solicit a mitigation of the severities inflicted upon him ; and for ever to his honour must it be rememl>ered, that, superior to the dictates of resent- ment, however highly excited, at the memorable session of the Legislature at Jacksonborough, no individual advocated with greater ardour and humanity the cause the unfortunates, who had incurred the public dis- pleasure, nor more strenuously endeavoured to mollify the punishments denounced against them. " Les malheiireiix, que ont de P esprit,, irouvent des resources en eux raemes,^^ Sensible that activity of mind would increase its energies, and better enable him to support oppression, he diligently engaged in the study of the Hebrew language, and was hourly increasing his reputation as a scholar, while his enemies vainly hoped that he was writhing under the penalties of his political oftences. The character of a disinterested Patriot, pure in prin- ciple, and guided by the most honourable intentions, was allowed to him even by the most determined of his political opponents. The late Governor Boone,. decidedly the man of the best information and correct GADSDEN. 171 judgment ever sent from Britain to preside over the province of South Carolina, was heard at the com- mencement of the Revolutionary War, to say — *' God knows how this unhappy contest will end, or what the popular leaders in South Carolina can be aiming it — - but Gadsden I know to be an honest man — he means well." A writer of intelligence, immediately subsequent to his death, doing homage to his virtues, recommends, and in my opinion with singular propriety, a sentence from Cicero, as an appropriate Epitaph : ^^ IN DIFFICILLIMIS REIPUBLIC.E TEMPORIBUS URBEM NUNQUA^S DESERUI IN PROSPERIS NIHIL DE PUBLICO DELIBAVI, IN DESPERATIS NIHIL TIMUI." And to the still higher increase of his reputation, adds — " Ihe first to raise the standard of opposition against the parent government, he was the first to re- commend oblivion in favour of those who differed in opinion, and w^ho were condemned to pay the penalty of their political offences, by the forfeiture of their estates." An instance of his firm and decided character,' which occurred in the year 1777, is highly worthy to be recorded. The Congress of the United States, not long after the declaration of Independence, having recommended to the States, that such of the dis- affected as were willing to take the oath of allegiance, should be permitted to do so ; Mr. Lowndes, then Prti- sident of the State, issued his Proclamation, extend- ing the time for taking the oath allowed by the act of the State Legislature. This measure being reprobated by some of the Whigs, a number of persons assembled, who, after tearing the Proclamation from the hands of the Marshal, proceeded with noise and tumult to the State House, where the President and Council were 172 GADSDEN. then in session. General Gadsden, who was one of the Council, came out to the people, and finding their resentments directed towards the President, told them that he, himself, was the man whom they should assail — that he had advised the Proclamation — that the pub- lic interest required that the country should be united — and that all who were willing to embark in the com- mon cause, should be received, though they came in at the last hour — that the recommendations of Con- gress, at such a crisis, should be received as law — that those who resisted them were little better than the enemies of the country — that for himself, whatever might be said, or done, he, as a Magistrate, would administer the oaths to any person, to the last moment of the time permitted by the Proclamation. In pur- suance of this declaration, he sat up till twelve o'clock of the night of the last day appointed for the purpose of receiving the oaths, and did, actually, at a late hour, issue certificates to some who took the oaths before him. When first shut up in the Castle at St. Augustine, the comfort of a light was denied him by the Com- mandant of the Fortress. A generous subaltern offered to supply him with a candle, but he declined it, least the Officer should expose himself to the censure of his superior. After Andre's arrest, Colonel Glazier, the Governor of the Castle, sent to advise General Gadsden to pre- pare himself for the worst — intimating, that as Gen- eral Washington had been assured of retaliation, if Andre was executed, it was not unlikely that General Gadsden would be the person selected. To this mes- sage he replied — " That he was always prepared to die for his country ; and though he knew it was im- possible for Washington to yield the right of an Inde- pendent State by the Law of War, to fear or affection, yet he would not shrink from the sacrifice, and would GADSDEN. 173 rather ascend the scaffold than purchase with his life the dishonour of his country. An election of a Governor of the State occurring shortly after his exchange, the suffrages of the majority of the Legislature were in his favour, but he declined the office, and in terms so highly honourable to him, that I fear not to offend by recording their purport. "Mr. Speaker, and Gentlemen, *' I have served my country in a variety of sta- tions for thirty years, and would now cheerfully make one of a forlorn hope in an assault on the lines of Charleston, if it was probable, that with a certain loss of life, you, my friends, would be reinstated in the pos- session of your capital. What I can do for my country, I am willing to do. My sentiments in favour of the American cause have never changed. I consider it as the cause of liberty and human nature. The present times require the vigour and activity of the prime of life; the increasing infirmities of old age would prevent me from serving you to your advantage. For your sakes, and the sake of the public, I must beg your in- dulgence for declining so arduous a trust." JOHN RUTLEDGE. The extraordinary powers of John Rutledge, his extensive knowledge, and irresistible eloquence, can best be estimated by the high encomium bestowed on him by the celebrated Patrick Henry, of Virginia, who declared, that in the first Congress, where there was as brilliant a display of talent as was ever exhibited in a collected body of legislators, " that he shone with superior lustre*" Being asked on his return to his 174 RUTLEDGE. native State, " what had been clone by the representa- tives of the nation — what kind of men composed that illustrious body, and particularly whom he thought the greatest man," he replied, " If you speak of eloquence, John Riitledge, of South-Carolina, is the greatest orator ; but, if you speak of information and sound judgment, Colonel Washington is unquestionably the greatest man on the floor." Of his decision of character there can exist no doubt. It was strongly exemplified at the very commencement of the Revolutionary con- test. When the vote to appoint deputies to a Continen- tal Congress was carried in the Assembly of South- Carolina, propositions were immediately introduced, for instructing the Delegates to what point it was ad- missible for them to pledge the concurrence of the Province to such measures as might be proposed for general adoption. John Rutledge, with great ability, contended, that unless unshackled by restraint, and allowed to act at discretion, that their power to do good would be inadequate to the energies which the crisis demanded ; and being asked, " w^hat ought we to do then, with these men should they make a bad use of the power delegated to them, he replied, '^ hang them.^^ But to his guidance of the helm of government, during the most calamitous scenes of the war within the State, is in a great degree to be attributed the suc- cesses ultimately obtained over a powerful and tri- umphant enemy. He, at a very early period, perceiv- ed the superior ability of General Greene to direct every military operation, and with, indefatigable in- dustry, seconded his views with all the influences of the civil authority. His judicious promotion of the Generals Sumter, Marion, and Pickens, did credit to his discernment, and proved of the highest utility to his country, while the well timed proclamations, pro- mising pardon and protection to all who had in evil hour been fempted to make submission, awakened as RUTLEDGE. 175 by a charm the slumbering energies of patriotism, and roused the entire population of Carolina, as one man, to seek for conquest, or encounter death. In his speech, when advanced to the Presidential chair of the State, on the first formation of the Constitution, he declared, " I have always thought every man's best services due to his country ;" and to the last hour of the war, his entire conduct gave testimony of his sincerity. His zeal and activity never knew abatement. His decision in refusing to sanction the abandonment of the Fort on Sullivan's Island, on the approach of the fleet of Sir Peter Parker, must, for ever, redound to his honour, since it not only gave to General Moultrie, and his intrepid Garrison, the opportunity to show how firm the resistance of men determined to be free ; but so completely changed the sentiments of the enemy with regard to the opposition which they were to encounter, when engaged with Carolinians, that, though still formidable in force, and capable of doing much mischief, they at once relinquished the idea of further hostility, and precipitately withdrew to New York. His exertions in collecting the militia of the interior country at Orangeburgh, on the invasion of Provost, and expeditious movement to frustrate the attack on Charleston, by its happy results, increase his claim to applause. Above every other trait of character, (when I consider the propensity of man to indulge with wan- tonness in the exercise of delegated authority) it must redound to the honour of John Rutledge, possessing dictatorial powers, that the justice and equitable cur- rent of iiis administration, never engendered the slight- est murmur, nor gave birth to a single complaint. So mild, indeed, and conciliating were all his actions, that obedience went hand in hand with command ; and the ardour of zeal seemed rather to solicit service^ than seek the means of avoiding it. 176 RUTLEDGE. Though taxed by Cassitis, a political writer of the day, as being the framer and advocate of the Confis- cation Law, (now generally reprobated) it would be the height of injustice exclusively to censure hirriy when at the moment of its passing, there were not more than a dozen Members of the Legislature, who declared their sentiments, or gave their votes in oppo- sition to it. The fact is, that the provocation to severity had been considered as excessive, and the irritation of the public mind excited beyond control. I was on the spot at the moment that the bill passed, and had strong reason to believe, that though certainly approved, it did not orginate with him. EDWARD RUTLEDGE. As firmly attached as his brother, to every feeling and sentiment of patriotism, Mr. Edward Rutledge, with equal assiduity, devoted his time and his talents to the public service. If the Demosthenian eloquence of John Rutledge was more impetuous and command- ing, the Ciceronian style of Edward was more per- suasive. There was a suavity in his manner, and conciliating attraction in his arguments, that had frequently the effect of subduing the prejudices of the uni'riendly, and which never failed to increase the ardour and inflexibility of steady friends. The elo- quence of John Rutledge was as a rapid torrent ; that of Edward as a gentle and smoothly gliding stream — the first hurried you forward to the point it aimed at, with powerful impetuosity — the last conducted to it, with fascinations that made every progressive step appear enchanting. Civil occupations engaged the attention of the elder brother. The younger in the RUTLEDGE. 177 field, as well as in the cabinet, obtained celebrity. In the well-contested action on Port Royal Island, he had the command of one of the field-pieces which essentially contributed to the victory, and justly re- ceived the thanks of the General who commanded. After the capture of Charleston, the influence both of his talents and example, did not escape the penetration of the British Commanders. They plainly saw, how much a man of such supc^rior ability, would be looked up to by the suffering multitude; and to destroy the effect, by an act of as great tyranny as ever was exer- cised, removed him to St. Augustine. The cheerful- ness of his natural disposition, his conciliating atten- tion to his companions in this situation of unmerited persecution, contributed, in no trifling degree, to cherish hope, and oppose intrepid resistance to every encroachment of despondency. After his exchange and freedom from captivity, he was elected a Member of the Legislature of the State ; and at the conclusion of the war, served in the Council aiding the adminis- tration of Governor Matthews. The act of his life that exalts him to the highest honour, is still to be mentioned. He was one of the signers of the Decla- ration of Independence, on the 4th of July, 1776. This is a sublime test of patriotism, that can never be disputed ; and which, as long as the liberties of Ame- rica shall endure, will secure to him the admiratioA and blessings of his country. HUGH RUTLEDGE. The talents of Mr. Hugh Rutledge were not, per- haps, equally brilliant, nor of so distinguished a cast as those of his brothers ; but, for solidity of judgment, 23 178 RUTLEDGE. and strong manly sense, he was not inferior to either of them ; and as a firm and intrepid Patriot, was pre- eminently distinguished by the cheerful performance of every duty to his country. He too, like his brother Edward, was deemed of sufficient consequence, to be made an object of peculiar persecution ; and being sent into exile, supported all the trials of long confine- ment, and irritating restrictions, with unshaken con- stancy. After his exchange, he filled the Speaker's Chair in the Legislature greatly to the satisfaction of its Members, and finally advanced to the Chancery Bench, closed a life of usefulness with the applause and sincere regrets of his grateful country. DR. DAVID RAMSAY. The literary character of Dr. Ramsay does honour to his country; his political conduct during the Revo- lutionary war no less honour to himself. The dawn of hostility found him with a reputation for talents, in- tegrity, and patriotism, which his conduct throughout the contest seemed to extend and embellish. It was the peculiar characteristic of the American Revolution, that the men the most distinguished for genius and virtue were its advocates. In the ranks of the Rebels (as the English delighted to call them) were found almost all the orators, statesmen, and philosophers, of whom the country could boast. Lawyers who had attained the highest distinction in the Legislature, and at the bar ; Physicians who had become eminent for their science and professional skill ; Merchants who had acquired wealth and honour by commercial enterprise; and even ministers of the Gospel, who, by their learning and piety, had endeared themselves to the people, all united RAMSAY. 179 their efforts in the common cause. Thus was dignity givon to the contest, and the public feeling was excited to a state of the most noble enthusiasm. The influence of Dr. Ramsay's example was felt and acknowledged by all. He was universally esteemed as a man of pro- fessional learning, and of the purest patriotism, and he was known to be governed in all his actions by a deep sense of moral and religious duty. The purity of his life was considered as the best evidence of the upright- ness of his views. The zeal with which he espoused the cause of freedom, could not fail then to produce a powerful effect on the minds of the timid and scrupu- lous. Dr. Ramsay never hesitated a moment as to the part he should take in the struggle. With an earnest- ness and ardour which no danger or difficulty could impair, he embarked his life and fortune in the cause of liberty and his country. He was one of the earliest advocates for independence, and in every period of the war he wrote, and spoke, and acted, with the greatest zeal and ability for the accomplishment of that glorious object. As a a member of the Council of Safety, of the Provincial Legislature, and finally of the Con- tinental Congress, he was always distinguished for his eloquence in debate, his wisdom in council, and his promptitude and energy in action. Having engaged in the contest from principle, Dr. Ramsay pursued his course with a devotion and perseverance, which proved that his heart was in the work. The press teemed with the ingenious productions of his pen; and at all public meetings his eloquence was exerted to sustain the pride and spirit of the people. Regardless of his private interests, he never hesitated to perform any labour, or to incur any risk, which the general welfare seemed to require. When his professional services were called for he constantly joined the army, and was present with the Charleston Ancient Battalion of Artil- lery at the siege of Savannah. It was natural that 180 RAMSAY. such a man should become the peculiar object of the vengeance of the enemy. He was accordingly one of the victims selected by Lord Cornvvallis to be banished to St. Augustine. After an exile of eleven months, in conequence of an exchange of prisoners, he was re- leased and returned to Carolina, joining Governor Rutledge at the Hills of Santee, and shortly after took his seat as a member of the Legislature, convened at Jackson borough. Though he had just suffered great indignity from the injustice and violated faith of the enemy, yet always superior to bad passions, and incapa- ble of revenge, he exerted his great talents and influ- ence in the Assembly to prevent the passage of the Confiscation Acts, and to lessen the punishments de- nounced against political offenders. These honour- able exertions were not crowned with success, yet still the praise is due to Dr. Ramsay of having sacrificed his personal feelings, and made a noble effort to stem the torrent of public indignation, which was then sweeping before it many of the wisest and best men of the State. During the Revolution he was carefully treasuring up materials for a History of its eventful scenes, his ardent character never permitting him to doubt the final success of his countrymen, and the establishment of American Independence. Li the year 1785, he published his History of the Revolution in South Carolina, and in 1790, h^ gave to the world his general History of the American Revolution. No man could have brought to the composition of such works, higher qualifications, or a more valuable stock of information. He was aware, that his feelings as an American Pa- triot, might affect his impartiality and bias his judg- ment ; and he also knew, that a faithful detail of facts, would probably be received at that period, by both parties, with dissatisfaction. He set out, therefore, with a firm resolution, as he himself declares, " to RAMSAY. 181 decline the fruitless attempt of aiming to please either party, and to follow the attractions of truth whither- soever she might lead." In the prosecution of this honourable determination, "I declare," (says he) " that in the whole coiu'se of my writing, I have carefully watched the workings of my mind, lest passion, pre- judice, or party feeling should warp my judgment ; and I have endeavoured to impress on myself, how much more honourable it is to write impartially for the good of posterity, than to condescend to be the apologist of a party." No higher praise can be bestowed on Dr. Ramsay, than to say, that he acted on these noble prin- ciples in the composition of all his works. By the Histories above alluded to, and those which he after- wards published. Dr. Ramsay acquired the distin- guished appellation of The American Historian, and erected for himself a monument as lasting as time. The character of Dr. Ramsay's eloquence was alto- gether striking and peculiar. I never heard on the floor of our Legislature, a Speaker whose harangues were better calculated to impress on his audience, the truths which he wished to inculcate. His arguments always forcible, and admirably arranged, were brought forward with peculiar effect ; for, so strong was his expression of feeling, that it was impossible not to be- lieve him sincere. His biographer, on this subject, ex- presses himself as follows : — " Dr. Ramsay was a remarkably fluent, rapid, and ready speaker ; and though his manner was ungraceful — though he neglec- ted all ornament, and never addressed himself to the imagination, or the passions of his audience, yet his style was so simple and so pure, his reasoning so cogent, his remarks so striking and original, and his conclusions resulted so clearly from his premises, that he seldom failed to convince."^ Dr. Ramsay retained * Vide the Biographical Memoir of Dr. Ramsav, prefixed to his History of the United States. That .Memoir was written by Colonel Rocekt Y, Hayse, 132 RAMSAY. his style of speaking, in all its original ardour, purity, and force, to the period of his death. As a Politician, Dr. Ramsay was always remarkable for his candor and liberality. As an instance of this, it may be here mentioned, that he had on one occasion, expressed doubts of the correctness of the principles on which the association of the Cincinnati is founded ; and in common with many others, entertained fears of the tendency of that Society, to build up an Aristo- cracy in this country. Experience, " the best test of truth," fully convinced him of his error ; and the late war with Great Britain, having brought the patriotism of its Members to the test, gave occasion to Dr. Ram- say, voluntarily, to assure the author, that he was so fully convinced of the Republican virtues of the Cin- cinnati, that should he publish another edition of his History, he would acknowledge the error of the opi- nions he had formerly entertained on the subject. This expression of his sentiments, induced the submission to his perusal of an admonitory address to a youthful Member, recently admitted into the Society, when with great expression of feeling he exclaimed — ** I w^ill venture to assert, that this young man never heard a sermon which did him so much good. While such your lectures, and such the principles inculcated into the youthful mind, I know of no association more likely to benefit society than the Cincinnati." From a man of so serious a turn of mind, a higher compli- ment could not have been paid ; and I have ever lamented, that his untimely fate prevented the display of a liberality which would have done him the highest honour. of this city, being the substance of an Oration delivered by him, on the occa- sion of Dr. Ramsay's death, before the Literary and Philosophical Society of South Carolina, published, by the request of that Society, in the Analectic Magazine, and afterwards prefixed to Dr. Ramsay's History. DRAYTON. ] 83 WILLIAM HENRY DRAYTON. It had long been a source of mortification to the Colonists, that no attention had been paid to native talents, and that as often as a post of trust or emolu- ment became vacant, that instead of being filled up by a choice from the candidates for distinction, with whom both the Courts and the Legislature abounded, some needy adventurer, or parasitical sycophant, was seen to arrive, whose only merit consisted in the art of bow- ing with humility to his superiors, or whose favour was derived from the fascinating influence of some pretty relative, who had skill to impress on an influential minister, the conviction that he was qualified to sup- port the dignity of Britain in her Colonies. There w^ere few communities in which a greater display of ability was shown than in Carolina. What country could boast of superior talents to those exhibited by Peter Manigault, William Wragg, John, Edward and Hugh Rutledge, Charles Cotesvvorth and Thomas Pinckney, Rawlins Lowndes, William and Wiiliam Henry Drayton, Thomas Bee, John Matthews, David Ramsay, Jacob Read, and very many others; but these w^ere characters two honest and proud in spirit, im- plicitly to obey the dictates of a power daily encroach- ing on the liberties of the people, and alone intent to reduce them to a submission that would have led them to lick the dust beneath the foot that spurned them. Their talents and their virtues appeared but feeble claims to distinction, and their being natives, an insur- mountable bar to success. Twice had the respectable Lieutenant Governor Bull been insulted by a cruel departure from the regular rotine of succession, having men of the very meanest capacities put over him. It is certainly no scandal to say, that the two last 184 DRAYTON, Governors iiiulcr the royal administration, were de- ficient even in common nnderstandinc;, owinc; their promotion entirely ro their rank, and the powerful influence of iheir families. There were among the jndces some men of ability, but the majority of them, were miserably deficient in political and general in- formation, and of professional knowledge altogether ignorant. It has often been said of Chief Justice Shinner, that he never opened a law book till he was actuall}' on his passage to America. Of the qualifications of Judge Futerel, a little anecdote will give an adequate idea. At a dancing assembly, having too freely sacrificed to Bacchus, he lay extended on a bench, in a retiring room, confused with liquor, when perceiving a gentleman pulling off his coat for the pur- pose of changing a waistcoast that had been accidentally soiled, he leapt up, and putting himself into a boxing attitude, exclaimed, " O damn you, if you are for that sport, I'm at home — come on.*' Such were our Gov- ernors, such the men sent from the Parent State to administer justice. A reference to an interesting debate in the British House of Commons, more fully illustrates the extent to which such insult towards the Colonists were carried. George Grenville, exclaiming, '' Shall these Americans, our own children, planted by our cares, nourished by our indulgence, dare to resist our de- crees," &:c. &:c. &c. Colonel Barre caught the words, and with manly eloquence said, " They nourished by our indulgence ? Tiiey grew up by our neglect ; and as soon as you b(^gan to care about them, that care was exercised in sending persons to rule over them, in one department and another, who were })erhaps the depu- ties of the deputies of some members of this House, sent to s])y ui)on their liberty, to misrepresent their actions, and to prey upon them. Men whose behaviour, on many occasions, has caused the blood of these sons DRAYTON. 185 of liberty to recoil within them ; men promoted to the highest seats of justice, some of whom, to my know- led ::p, were glad by going to foreign countries, to escape the vengeance of the laws in their own." At the commencement of the Revolution William Henry Drayton, who officiated as one of the Assistant Judges, was the only member of the bench who was a native American. His part was promptly taken, and with decision. His ardour to su[)port the liberties of his country was so highly estimated, as to cause his immediate nomination to the Presidency of the Pro- vincial Congress. His abilities were confessedly great, and popular talents considered so well calculated to conciliate the wavering and unfriendly, and effect their adherence to the cause of their country, that, in conjunction with the Rev. Mr. Tennant, he was sent into the interior expressly to effect the union of fyarties, and to excite a general and firm opposition to British tyranny. The seeds of disafiiection, however, were already too generally sown. The enemies to Revolu- tionary principles temporized, but as speedily as the hope revived of being supported by a competent British force, broke out in open hostility, and it was quickly found that the swords of Sumter and of Pickens more effectually produced the performance of their duties than the persuasive eloquence of Tennant, and com- manding oratory of Drayton. His letters published expressly to controvert the machinations of the British commissioners, holding out the fallacious hope of con- ciliation, have been considered as replete with irresis- tible arguments, and written in the best style of com- position. His Strictures also on the conduct of Gene- ral Charles Lee disobeying orders at the battle of Monmouth, and calling in question the military capa- city of General Washington, have been, by a great majority of the Union, very highly approved. 24 186 EDWARDS. MR. JOHN EDWARDS. It must appear both injudicious and unjust, that Mr. John Edwards has been so little noticed. This name has been scarcely mentioned in the records of our Revolution ; yet, there was no citizen of the republic, in whose bosom the love of liberty glowed with more generous enthusiasm. Possessing wealth beyond any other mercantile man of the day, he was the first individual in Carorlina who tendered his for- tunes in snpport of the American cause. His friend, the venerable Josiah Smith, was no less liberal in his loans to Government ; and it cannot be doubted, but that their example must, in a great degree, have con- tributed to give stability to public credit, and to induce many of less sanguine hopes, to risk their fortunes for the public good. Warned by his more prudential friends, that he placed too much at hazard ; that the success of America, opposed to the power of Bri- tain, could scarcely be expected ; and that the total loss of his ample possessions might follow^ : With a feeling of patriotism that cannot be too highly appre- ciated, he replied — " Be it so ! I would rather lose my all, than retain it, subject to British authority.'^ His subsequent conduct gives ample testimony, that this was no vain boasting. Shortly after the fall of Charleston, invited to a conference by Admiral Ar- buthnot, who was quartered on him, and occupied the principal apartments of his house, a conversation took I)lace, the purport of which, immediately after the conclusion, was communicated by him to his son in law, Mr. John Bee Holmes, from whom I received it. "Nothing, Mr. Edwards," said the Admiral, *Vhas appeared more extraordinary to Sir Henry Clinton and myself, than that you, a native of Great Britain, EDWARDS. 187 should have taken part with the Rebels, and appeared, throughout the contest, a strenuous and decided advo- cate of revolutionary principles. How, Sir, is it to be accounted for ?" " Because," replied Mr. Ed- wards, " I conscientiously approved and have solemnly pledged myself to support them." " But, Mr, Ed- wards," rejoined the Admiral, " as a man of sense, however, you may have been heretofore deluded, your eyes must now be opened to the futility of resistance ; and as a man of honour, you are bound, by every means in 3'our power, to aid in promoting the submis- sion of the people, by a reconciliation with the merciful Government, that would obliterate every recollection of past offences, and again receive them with favour and forgiveness. We know that your influence can do much — that many look up to you for the regulation of their own conduct — we know too, that no indi- vidual has suffered such heavy pecuniary loss, by the depreciation of the paper currency, as yourself Re- ject not, therefore, the liberal and advantageous proposition which I am about to make you. Take protection yourself — recommend it to your friends to follow your meritorious example — use your best en- deavours to put down opposition to the British autho- rities, and you shall be forthwith, not only remunerated for every loss that you have sustained, but for the good effected through your means, a pecuniary reward shall be granted you, equal to your most sanguine desires." " Admiral Arbuthnot," said Mr. Edwards, " it is not the temptations of wealth that shall ever induce me to forfeit my honour. I cannot hesitate to choose, where duty, inclination, and every virtuous principle point out the course which it becomes me to pursue. My losses have been great, but they cost me not a sigh. My monies were lent, to support a cause which I consider that of justice and humanity. I have a wife, tenderly beloved, and ten children worthy 188 EDWARDS. of my most ardent affection. They are all dependent upon me, and I may probably have little to leave them but good principles and an untarnished reputation ; but, were a gallows to be raised by your order, in my view, and you were to say — Your fate depends upon your resolve — take protection or perish — I would, without a moment's hesitation — die /" If the traits of character which I have exhibited, are acceptable to public sentiment, and have a claim to applause, how much must admiration of his i)atriotic conduct be increased, when it is remembered, that hearing in council the magnanimous proposition to await the event of an assault, and to devote the lives of the Garrison of Charleston to the attainment of general good, rather than surrender to the enemy, he nobly supported the opinion, and herorically declared for death in preference to submission. " I would rather," he exclaimed, " that my breast should meet the British bayonet, than that my signature should be given to any proposition recommending the surrender of the city." Supporting all the severities of exile and persecution at St. Augustine, with unshaken fidelity to his coun- try, he was sent with the companions of his misfor- tunes, after the happy negotiation of Major Hyrne for the exchange of prisoners, to Philadelphia. There, his virtues gained him respect — his misfortunes friends. He died in exile, and was interred amidst the regrets of an admiring people, whose pity for his sufferings could only be surpassed by their applause and admi- ration of the firmness with which he supported them. MATTHEWS. 189 GOVERNOR MATTHEWS. To this distinguished patriot I have ever considered the citizens of the Southern States as peculiarly in- debted. It might at this late period be difficult to prove the fact, it must indeed at any time have excited astonishment, but I have heard him repeatedly declare, that after the defeat of General Gates near Camden, when the cloud that overshadowed the prospects of America wore its darkest hue, and even to the Revo- lutionists, the most sanguine of success, the enl^ebled rays of hope were scarcely percepitible, that through the intrigues, and at the suggestion of the French Am- bassador, it was contemplated to bring forward a pro- position in Congress to purchase from Great Britain, peace, and the independency of a large portion of the United States, by the sacrifice of the Carolinas and Georgia, Nor did he conceal the name of the indi- vidual who had engaged to introduce and advocate the measure. Fired with resentment, indignant that even in the private circles of society a proposal so base and disgraceful should have been whispered — that it should have been admitted into an American bosom, he deter- mined at once to put the virtue of the Delegated Repre- sentatives of his country to the test. Repairing to Congress, he forcibly reminded them of their bond of union ; that the several States were pledged to each other, through every variety of fortune, to accomplish the end of their association, or to fall together, " I will regard the man," he exclaimed, " who would attempt to weaken these sacred ties as the fit object of univer- sal execration ; and in the event that the members of Congress should so far debase themselves, as to listen to his nefarious proposal, after having, in conjunction with my colleagues, protested against the measure, and 190 MATTHEWS. pointed out the source of the evil, I will say to my constituents, make your own terms with the enemy — no longer regard as associates, nor put your trust in men, who appalled by their fears, and under the influ- ence of a foreign power, to secure themselves from harm, make no scruple to doom their friends to de- struction." Happily for our country the energetic con- duct of our Delegates crushed the intrigue in embryo. It never saw the light. Mr. Bee and Colonel Eveleigh very nobly supported Mr. Matthews on this momentous occasion. Sometime subsequent to the writing of the anecdote above recorded, 1 learnt from General Thomas Pinck- ney, that while with Governor Rutledge at Camden, subsequent to the fall of Charleston, he was in- formed by him that he had received a letter from a member of the South-Carolina Delegation in Con- gress, (probably Mr. Matthews, to whom he was allied by the strictest ties of friendship,) informing him, that despondency for the fate of the Southern States was the universal sentiment, but that he still indulged the hope that Carolina would remain a member of the Union. But that some discussion had occurred in Congress, corresponding with the representation made by Governor Matthews, is more clearly demonstrated by the copy of a declaration made by that respectable body, June 25th, 1780, and extracted from Rivington's New-York Royal Gazette, September 13th of the same year, which, under other circumstances, would have been altogether superfluous, and inconsistent with common sense. " Whereas, it has been reported in order to seduce the States of South-Carolina and Georgia from their allegiance to the United States, that a treaty of peace betwixt America and Great Britain was about to take placcj and that these two States would be ceded to Great Britain, MATTHEWS. 191 " Resolved unanimously. That the said report is insidious, and utterly void of foundation. That this confederacy is most sacredly pledged to support the liberty and independency of every one of the members ; and in a firm reliance on the Divine blessing, will unremit- tingly persevere in every exertion for the establishment of the same, and for the recovery and preservation of any and every part of the said United States that have been, or may hereafter be invaded or possessed by the common enemy. " Extract from the minutes. « CHARLES THOMPSON, Sec'ri/:' BENJAMIN GUERARD. The distresses of the Patriotic Citizens of South Carolina, transported to Philadelphia, were sufficient in thoir nature to engender the most gloomy despair* Hospitality opened the doors of the inhabitants to many families, who were kindly sheltered, and treated with the most cordial affection. But there were many unfortunates, accustomed through life to possess every essential comfort, who were destitute of common ne- cessaries, and not a few who actually wanted bread. I record it to the honour of Mr. Benjamin Guerard, a gentleman of extensive property, that he, upon this occasion, generously stepped forward, and offered to pledge his estate as a security, to raise a sum to be exclusively appropriated to the maintenance of his suffering Countrymen, demanding no greater share for himself, than that which should be allowed to every other individual. Carolina estates, however, were regarded as castles in the air, and his generous inten- tions proved altogether abortive. It would be painful to me, to neglect to mention names where just claims to humanity existed. My information is limited. Such individuals as I knew 192 GUERARD. pre-eminently distinguished by their efforts to give relief, I am proud to speak of. Dr. Bond, Mr. Wikoff, Colonel Pettit, Mr. IngersoU, Dr. Logan, and many others, were liberal with delicacy, and doubled the obligation by bestowing their favours without osten- tation. Nor should it ever be forgotten in Carolina, that Colonel John Mitchell, so much the victim of misfortune in his latter years, who lived in Philadelphia at that period, in ease and affluence, never failed, as occasion required, to sooth the afflictions of the exiles, by every attention that benevolence could bestow. I am sensible, that to many of my readers a consi- derable portion of the Anecdotes which I record, may appear uninteresting, but as they relate to men, to re- collect whom, gives pleasure not only to myself, but to all who remember their constancy and exemplary good conduct in times "that tried men's souls," I am inclined to persist. JUDGE BURKE, Throughout the whole of the Revolution, acted a very conspicuous part. He was a steady and inflexible Patriot, and zealous supporter of the Laws. The people had not an advocate more ready to maintain their just rights, nor a more prompt opponent, when- ever they manifested the slightest disposition to licen- tiousness. He always meant well, though he frequently took an awkward way of showing it, and secured confidence by his unremitted endeavours to deserve it. It had been much the fashion, towards the close of the war, for persons wishing to avoid militia service, BURKE. 193 to attach themselves as volunteers to the regular Con- tinental Reij;iments, engaging to take the field when- ever called upon ; but it speedily appeared, th^t self- indulgence was much more their real object, than public good. To counteract this practice, a Bill was introduced into the Legislature at Jacksonborough, to compel every man to serve in the Militia Regiment in which he was enrolled. Judge Burke, on this occa- sion, after using many arguments in support of the Bill, concluded by saying — " I shall give but one reason more, Mr. Speaker, against the volunteer sys- tem, and that is a very powerful one. Your volunteers are a set of very shabby fellows, and I have a good right to say it, 1 am a volunteer myself." Travelling the Circuit some years previous to the period, when an improved system of education had completely extin- guished a ferocity of character, which tolerated goug- ing, biting, and other disgraceful practices, and being asked why he carried pistols of unusual size and caliber : he replied — " As the best specific for the preservation of my eye sight — country frolics too fre- quently produciiig blindness." The system of espionage, however disgraceful to the party w ho undertakes to betray, being resorted to in every war, has been regarded as altogether justifiable on the tjart of the Officer who seeks intelligence. To individuals communicating information relative to the movements of the enemy, both General Greene and General Marion had promised protection, and release from the penalties attached to their political offences. This was a measure, in the highest degree, revolting to a large proportion of the Members of the House of Representatives, v^ho steadily maintained — " that to men so lost to every honourable feeling, the rights of citizenship should never be granted." The singularity of Judge Burke's reasoning on this subject, occasioned much amusement. He briefly said — " I am at a loss, 25 194 BURKE. Mr. Speaker, to conjecture, what the gentlemen would be at. The Generals were authorized to engage Spies, who would be tempted to betray the secrets of the Government they professed to honour ; and having done so, this House is bound to fulfil every contract that they have made. They proudly assert, what in my conscience I have little inclination to deny — that such men would be bnd citizens any where. But, Spies are confessed to be a necessary evil ; and I should be glad to know, if the gentlemen ever expect to find honest men, who will undertake the dirty work required of them, and act the part of villains, to pro- mote the public good ? No, Mr. Speaker. You are at liberty to despise the traitors, while you profit by their treason. You may cut their acquaintance — you may withhold the compliment of your hat, your hand, and your heart ; but, protected by the pledge given by the Generals, that they should be restored to their rights, and pardoned for their political criminality, the less that is said on the subject the better, since these Scoffs^ Yahoos as they are, are as truly citizens as any of us.'* Sending a challenge to a person who had grossly offended him, he thus expressed himself: — '' Sir, I must insist upon your giving me immediate satisfaction, for having so far imposed on me, as to make me be- lieve for a single moment, that you were a man of honour, or a gentleman." I myself remember to have heard him relate the circumstances contained in the Anecdote which fol- lows : When, to give permanency to, and increase the strength of the Union, the adoption of the Federal Constitution was strongly recommended by the most enlightened of our citizei^s, Judge Burke stood forth its strenuous opposer, using his utmost efforts to render it hateful to the people ; but, when he found that a BURKE. 195 ;;reat majority were of a different sentiment, and that its acceptance was sanctioned by their applauses, he gave up opposition, and studiously endeavoured to give energy to all its operations. Returning from a Circuit in the interior, he hap- pened, on one occasion, to fall in with^ a long train of wagons near Nelson's Ferry, conveying produce from North Carolina, to Charleston. With their conductors he immediately engaged in conversation, and wishing to ascertain their opinions of passing events, asked — " If they thought the recently adopted Constitution of the United States, would prove useful and acceptable to the People." The reply was unanimous — ** By no means. We abominate it, and to such a degree, that should the President think proper, on any emergency, to call us into the field, we would refuse obedience to a man." *' Tell that," said the Judge, " to some one that does not know you. Refuse to obey the call of your Chief Magistrate, when your country is in jeo- pardy ! — impossible! Look to the discipline which every mother's son of you keep up on your Farms, when you wish to know the extent and condition of your stock. Do you not blow your conchs, and do not your cattle, and your sheep, your pigs, and your poultry gather about you, as it were to ask your com- mands ? And when danger threatens, and the Presi- dent blows his conch, to call you to your duty, would you have me believe, that you would be more insen- sible than the beasts of the field ? The protection which the Government which he administers affords, is to you what feed is to your hogs ; and at the first blast, not one of the swinish herd would be more nim- ble in seeking his rations, than you would be in the opportunity of repelling aggression." *' You are a very free spoken man," said one of his auditors, '* and may, i)erhaps, be a clever one ; but, for your want of civility in comparing us to our hogs, be pleased to t88 BURKE. pass to the rear ; you cross not the River till the last of our wagons has reached the opposite shore." The Jud^e was forced to comply ; but, recollecting that his presence was required by a particular time in another quarter, he, at the risk of his life, swam his horses, and paddled himself across the River, admiring the independency of character in men, who would not tolerate incivility even from a Judge. Shortly after the evacuation of Charleston, Judge Burke, under the signature of Cassius, attacked with much point, and decided effect, the act^ of the Jack- sonborough Assembly against those who had submit- ted and taken British protections. I have always thought that the censures which he lavished on this occasion would not have been received so favourably, if obnoxious individuals had been allowed to plead in justification of their conduct, or if particular penalties had been attached to particular critnes. But contrary to every principle of justice, prejudice reigned with unlimited sway, and under the protection of influential friends, many escaped even censure, for the very acts for which others were banished, and fined to the full extent of their possessions. Wealth was too frequently regarded as an indication of crime ; and in committee, on the reading over the names of the accused, the cry of " a fat sheep; a fat sheep— prick him ! prick him !" was followed by immediate condemnation, unless some man of influence, or friend to huaianity, in pity, under- took to palliate the misconduct of the offender, and by his eloquence averted the blow which was to destroy him. In his last hours he exhibited the same humour and eccentricity that had distinguished him through life. On the day previous to his death, having been tap- ped by Dr. Irvine for a dropsy, he said, " well Irvine, what am I to expect; is the decree life or death." *' Life, my good fellow," said Irvine. You are an BURKE. 197 Irishman, and will yet last a long time." " Then, by Jasus," said Burke, " I shall be the first thing that ever lasted long in this house, after being once put on tap." CAPTAIN RICHARD GOUGH. It is a tribute justly due to the independent spirit of Captain Richard Gough to record, that having in vain opposed proceedings so abhorrent to justice, as those already mentioned, he vacated his seat in the Jackson- borough Assembly, declaring, *' that he could never remain a v^itness to the condemnation of a man who was not allowed the privilege to state, in his own defence, the motives which had decided his conduct." The magnanimity of this gentleman on another oc- casion, is highly deserving of praise. Having been a prisoner, he had been thrown into irons, and treated with peculiar indignity. A change in the political oc- currences of the time, highly favourable to America, having taken place, many of the adherents of Britain, repenting the imprudence of their conduct, wished, by a full confession of error^ to be admitted to the rights of citizenship. An American, who had interested him- self very highly in favour of an individual subjected to the penalties of the Confiscation Law, making an appeal to the humanity of Cai)tain Gough, said, " I am sensible that it is only necessary for you to oppose the petition in his behalf, which will be presented to the Legislature, to ensure its failure." " Make yourself easy, then," was the generous reply. *' Give me the petition, I will present and suport it, and shall be happy if that prevents opposition from any other quarter. 198 GOUGH. The war is brought to a happy conclusion — my resent- ments are no more." It gave additional lustre to this act of generosity, that a little before, while at supper WMth his aged mother, he had been fired upon and desperately wounded by a Tory party from the British garrison. EXEMPLARY CONDUCT OF THE CLERGY. It is a highly gratifying circumstance to perceive, from the perusal of the interesting " History of the Episcopal Church in South-Caro- lina,''^ by the Reverend Dr. Dalcho, that five only out of twenty oi the Clergy of that persuasion, adhered to the British cause. BISHOP SMITH. The late Bishop Smith shouldered his musket, and amidst scenes of the greatest danger, both by precept and example, stimulated to intrepid resistence. Made a prisoner at the surrender of Charleston, immediate banishment followed his captivity. Such was the ap- prehension of his influence, that, though ill and con- fined to his bed, a centinel placed over him, was not allowed to quit his chamber, till he was taken from it under a guard, to be transported to Philadelphia. The nature of my work permits me to speak of his political conduct alone. To his credit, however, I must state, that blessed with opulence, his charities were unbounded. The poor and the needy wept his departure with unfeigned sorrow. Benevolence was enthroned in his heart. His Clerical Brothers found in him a friend, and mourned in him a Father. Many charitable institutions were benefited, both by his exertions and by his liberality ; but the Clergy Society, which, with utility beyond the reach of praise, gives 200 SMITH, P£;rcy and lewis. relief to the bereaved widow, and rescues the helpless orphan from the pangs of want and misery, originating with him, was, to his latest hour, fostered with pecu- liar delight. THE REV. DR. PERCY Frequently preached to the troops, encouraging them to intrepid exertions, and a patient endurance of the privations necessarily connected with their situa- tion. He was the first Orator who addressed the people on the Anniversary of our Independence. His steady conduct being highly offensive to the British authorities, he was ordered to relinquish his clerical duties, as soon as Charleston fell, under the penalty of a dungeon ; and to avoid persecution, retired to Europe. THE REV. MR. LEWIS, Of St. Paul's, was a firm advocate for Indepen- dence, and an indefatigable agent in promoting its accomplishment. Delivering a patriotic discourse on the text — " The Lord forbid that I should give the inheritance of my fathers unto thee ;" he became par- ticularly obnoxious to the British Commanders, was exiled to St. Augustine with many other Patriots, but was speedily separated from them, and shut up in the Castle, and till the period of his exchange, condemned to solitary confinement. PURCELL, TERQUAND AND WARREN. 201 THE REV. DR. PURCELL Was equally firm in his principles ; and acting as Deputy Judge Advocate in the field, supported all the difficulties and dangers of campaigning, with exem- plary patience and intrepidity. THE REV. PAUL TERQUAND Served as a member in the First Provincial Con- gress, and distinguished himself, not only in his legis- lative capacity, but by his oratorical powers, and his animating address to that respectable body from the pulpit, and for which he received their unanimous thanks. THE REV. SAMUEL WARREN, Called by interesting concerns to Europe at the commencement of the Revolution, was tempted by all the arts of persuasion, and offers of liberal preferment, by a brother, a Dignitary in the established Church, to remain in England ; but, with a soul superior to all selfish consideration, he thought only of the good that might flow from his exertions in the cause of Liberty ; returned to America ; with unremitted zeal performed every duty, braved every danger, and both by precept and example, to the conclusion of the contest, pointed out the road to honour and renown. 26 202 SMITH. Nor is less praise due to the CIerfi;y of other deno- minations, who, with unshaken zeal and firmness, were reckoned among the most strenuous supporters of the Revolution. THE REV. JOSIAH SMITH, Pastor of the Independent Church, though ad- vanced to his 77th year, disdaining to receive the favour which would have been allowed him, of re- maining in Charleston, from an enemy who had wantonly violated the terms of capitulation, granted to the inhabitants, went into banishment with his family, and died an exile. THE REV. MR. TENNANT Stands pre-eminetly distinguished. He was born in New-Jersey, in the year 1740, and educated at the College of Princeton, where, in 1758, he received a bachelor's degree, and was two years after licensed to preach. He first settled in Connecticut, but after a lapse of ten years, accepted, on invitation, the pastoral charge of the Independent Church in Charleston, and arrived there in 1772. As a man of learning, eloquence, and piety, he was held in high estimation. It is my province to speak more particularly of his Revolution- ary services ; and here there is an ample field for praise. His life, from the earliest dawn of hostility, was devoted to the service of his country, and the whole tenor of his conduct gave unequivocal proof, that he considered religion, liberty, and happiness, im- plicated in her success. The vigour of his mind would TENNANT. 3D3 not suffer him, under such circumstances, to act an inferior part. He boldly stepped forward the cham- pion of Liberty and Independence — with zeal and eloquence preached resistance, nor failed to support it with all his energies. As a Member of the Provincial Congress, and afterwards of the House of Assembly, he, in his legislative capacity, acquired great celebrity, and so forcibly impressed upon the minds of his col- leagues, the conviction of his superior and persuasive talents, that in conjunction with the Honourable Wil- liam Henry Drayton, he was delegated to visit the disaffected districts of the interior country; by the exercise of his abilities, to demonstrate to the misguided both the weakness and wickedness of their conduct ; and by dint of reason, to reconcile them to those patriotic measures which could alone save their coun- try from destruction. This was a service of extreme difficulty and danger. Supicion had exerted its bane- ful influence. Motives and designs were reciprocally attributed by the opposite parties to each other, of the most ungenerous nature and mischievous tendency. Camps were formed preparatory to open contention, and the whole country breathed the spirit of war. A conference, however, betwixt the leaders, put a tem- porary stop to hostility. The Loyalist engaged to remain in a state of neutrality, and both parties re- tired to their homes. The good that was expected from the commission of the Delegates, was not as eX" tensive as the government had anticipated ; but their eloquence was not without its effect. Many men of character and influence, were induced to sign the Asso- ciation, and renouncing their errors, became the steady supporters of the popular cause. To sum up his character as a Politician, it is no exaggeration to say, that resistance to oppression, and firmness in supporting the just rights of the people, were the cherished doctrines of his heart ; and to have 20.4, T£1N!SA]\T. attained their accomplishment, he would have laid down his life rejoicing. The respect to his memory, by the Congregation over which he presided, is feelingly demonstrated by the inscription on his Monument, erected by them in their Archdale-street Church. In memory Of the Reverend WILLIAM TENNANT, A. M. Pastor of this Church, and principally instrumental in the erection of this building, dedicated to the worship of Almighty God, who died at the High Hills of Santee, August 11th, 1777, in the thirty-seventh year of his age. He was distinguished for ' quickness of perception, solidity of judgment, energy and firmness of mind, for inflexible patriotism and ardent public spirit, for the boldness with which he enforced the claims of the Deity, and vindicated the rights of Man. As a Preacher, he was prompt, solemn, instructive and persuasive — of every social virtue, he was a bright example. ^^ Blessed are the dead ivho die in the Lord.^^ His valuable life terminated while discharging a filial duty, bringing his aged and recently widowed mother from New Jersey to Carolina. FURMAN. 205 THE REV. DR. FURMAN. With great delight I mention a faithful servant both of God and the Republic, who still lives an ornament and blessing to society. In the field a hero, in private life, I know no man, that by the uniform display of talent and of virtue, does greater honour to humanity than Doctor Furman, Strenuous in opposition to the invaders, he fought and he preached with energy and effect, and the recollection of his zeal to promote unanimity and steady resistance to the encroachments of an enemy, who but a little time since, would again have disturbed the tranquillity of his country, demon- strated that the patriot fire that warmed his youthful bosom, burns even in advanced life with all its pristine purity and eifulgence. CONDUCT OF OUR ALLIES, THE FRENCH. It is tribute of justice due to our Allies, the French, to state, that during our Revolutionary struggle for Freedom, they invariable endeavoured to harmonize with our citizens, relinquishing, on most occasions, with distinguished politeness, their own modes and prejudices, to conform themselves to the habits and customs of America. They did indeed carry their desire to please and conciliate to such an extent, that I remember, on one occasion, a French Officer being asked by General M'Intosh, (presiding at a Court Martial, and desirous to administer an oath, that his evidence should be given with impartiality) — '' Of what Religion he was ?" replied very readily — " The American, Sir ;" thinking, undoubtedly, that it was a duty to conform as much as possible to the religious opinions of the people in whose cause he had drawn his sword. And this appears the more probable, for time being allowed for reflection, and the question varied, by substituting ivhat faith, instead of what Religion, he exclaimed — C^est bien une autre affaire — Roman Catholique Apostolique, Mon General, It is needless to speak of their bravery. They were Frenchmen, and enthusiastically attached to the opinions imbibed in favour of Liberty and Republican- ism. Their intrepidity was exemplary, and gave them daily new claims to the admiration and gratitude of the people, whose rights and properties they had DE CARENDEFFEZ. 207 pledged themselves to defend. To bring forward the examples that might be produced of the valour of individuals, v^^ould be to extend my volume far beyond the limits prescribed ; and in naming one, I might offend multitudes. Yet, there is a charm in gallantry when displayed in early youth, which is attended with irresistible fascinations; and, at a risk, I will subject myself to the imputation of partiality, rather than pass over a hw selected incidents that appear to have a peculiar claim to applause. BARON DE CARENDEFFEZ. At the siege of York, the young Baron de Caren- deffez, now an inhabitant of our city, then about the age of fifteen, was sent into the Magazine to distribute ammunition for the use of the French artillery, and while seated on a barrel of powder, saw a shell from the enemy fall within two feet of his position. The Soldiers who were in the Battery, expecting imme- diate explosion, ran off in every direction. The intre- pid youth remained unmoved. The expected catas- trophe, however, did not follow — the fuse of the shell was, in its flight, extinguished. This being perceived by the fugitives, the Battery was immediately reoccu- pied, when Captain Lemery, the commanding Officer, addressing himself to the youth, who still retained his seat, said — " You young rogue, why did you not fly the impending danger ? Why not embrace a chance for life ? " Because, Captain," he heroically replied, " my duty required that I should make a distribution of ammunition, and not desert my post, and fly like a poltroon !" 203 ^^ BUYSSON. CHEVALIER DE BUYSSON. The chivalrous gallantry of the Chevalier De Buys- son, the Aid-de-Camp of the Baron De Kalb, cannot be too much admired. Perceiving his General fall, every idea of personal safety was abandoned ; and rushing towards him, he generously offered his own breast as a shield to the body of his expiring friend, till covered with wounds, and faint from the loss of blood, he was compelled to withhold resistance, and yielded up his sword to the enemy. THE CHEVALIER DUPLESSIS MAUDUIT, A YOUNG and gallant Frenchman, whose enthusiastic devotion to Liberty, had induced him, at the age of Vixteen, to undertake a journey into Greece, expressly to view the scenes where her defenders had so reso- lutely contended against the encroachments of tyranny and oppression, and who now, in his twentieth year, had drawn his sword in the cause of America, has the credit of having displayed the most romantic gallantry at the battle of Germantown. Perceiving the division of the army, to which he was attached, severely galled by a heavy and destructive fire from Chew's house, into which Colonel Musgrave, of the British army, had thrown himself with his regiment. He imme- diately brought up two pieces of artillery, (six-pound- ers) with the hope to dislodge them ; but speedily finding that the cannonade, from the size of the guns, produced no effect, he proposed to Colonel Laurens to set fire to the principal door of entrance, by carrying MAUPUIT. 209 forward a quantity of combustible matter, and thus obtain access to the interior. The attempt was made, but without success. The heroic intrepidity of two dauntless spirits could not conquer impossibilities. Laurens approached so near, as actually to make a thrust with his small sword through a shot hole, at an Officer within the building, nor desisted from his efforts to force a passage, till a wound compelled him to retire. The Chevalier Mauduit attempted to gain admission through a window on the ground floor which he had forced, and actually saw an Officer, who reso- lutely opposed his entrance, killed by a musket shot, precipitately fired, and evidently intended for his bosom. Every hope of success having vanished, retreat was the only resource for security, but resolved rather to die, than incur ridicule by running off, he retired with slow and deliberate step, and more fortu- nate than his comrade, without the slightest injury. The laurels gained by this chivalrous youth, in the successful defence of the fortress at Red Bank, against a powerful detachment of Hessians, led on by Colonel Donop, were no less honourable to him. So certain were the assailants of victory, so confident of their own superiority, both in discipline and valour, that on their approach to the American lines, one of their Officers, advancing in front of his troops, exclaimed — *' The King of England orders his rebellious subjects to lay down their arms ; and they are warned, that if they stand the battle, no quarters whatever will be given." It was immediately answered — " Agreed ! The challenge is accepted ! There shall be no quar- ter granted on either side !" It is unnecessary to detail particulars of the action that immediately fol- lowed. The defeat of the Hessians was complete. Their leader, and a large proportion of the detach- ment fell. It might have been expected, after the threatening denunciation of vengeance held out, that 27 210 MAUDUIT. in just retaliation, indulgence might have been given to resentment; but, with victor}^ humanity regained its benign influence in every American bosom, and the vanquished experienced every kind and benevolent attention that could sooth their misfortunes, and teach them more highly to appreciate the courage and for- bearance of an enemy, against whom they were prepared to exercise such deadly animosity. The un- fortunate Donop, who fell mortally wounded, turning, when nearly in the agonies of death, to M. de Mau- duit, said with great expression of feeling — " My career is short. I die the victim of my ambition, and of the avarice of my King ; but in dying in the arms of honour, I have no regrets." I cannot quit the generous Mauduit without noticing his lamentable and untimely fate. On the 3d of March, 1791, the day previous to his assassination, the Baron de Carendeffez, with a few others of his friends, repaired to the Government House at Port-au- Prince, the spirit of revolt being then at its height in the Island of St. Domingo, to warn him of the dan- ger which threatened him, the storm ready to burst on his head, and emphatically said — " Your regiment — • the regiments of Artois and Normandie are in insur- rection — the sailors in the port, and every miscreant in the place, have sworn your destruction — believe the information we give you — quit this scene of horror -^— you cannot otherwise escape destruction !" " With dignity," he replied, '^ 1 know the risk that I run — - the danger to which I expose myself ; but honour bids me remain at my post. Death is my destiny — I ex- pect it. But, there stands my commander, (pointing out M. de Blanchelande) — if he bids me depart, I obey ; if he does not, I die on this spot !" He then added — " Remember, my friends, that I predict, that that scoundrel will save himself, leaving me to pay the forfeit." He judged with accuracy ; the General MAUDUIT, FLEURY AND DE KALB. 211 fled to Cape Francois, leaving the brave Mauduit at the mercy of infuriate assassins, to whose ferocity he became an immediate victim. It was not long, how- ever, before he paid the price of so pusilanimous an abandonment. He sailed for France, but being arrested at the moment of his arrival, perished by the hands of the executioner. LIEUTENANT COLONEL FLEURY, Who had, on many previous occasions, displayed the most heroic gallantry, particularly distinguished himself at the storming of the British post at Stoney Point. How great the difficulties he had to encounter, in his approach to the Redoubt of the enemy, how invincible the resolution of the troops he commanded, to surmount them, may be justly estimated, when it is remembered, that Lieutenant Gibbon, who led the forlorn hope of Fleury's column, with the chivalric gallantry which characterized his entire conduct, re- moved the abbatis, and entered the post sw^ord in hand, losing seventeen out of the twenty heroes, attached to him on this perilous enterprize. History has attri- buted to the Lieutenant Colonel, the honour of having struck the colours of the enemy with his own hands. BARON DE KALH. Although a native of Germany, yet, from his long course of service in the armies of France, 1 cannot but consider the Baron as a Frenchman ; especially, as it 212 DE KALB. appears more than probable, that during the entire period of his holding an American commission, he continued a pensioner of that government, and one of its most indefatigable agents. From his own represen- tations it is evident, that during the war of 1757, he had visited the Colonies of Great Britain, by the direc- tion of the Court of France, expressly to ascertain the I)oints in which they were the most vulnerable, and to discover how far it was practicable, by well-timed in- sinuations, and winning intrigue, to generate dissatis- faction, and excite a suspicious jealousy against the mother country, so as to shake their confidence in the, purity of her views, and beget and cherish a desire of asserting their independence. In political negotiations it cannot be doubted, but that its own peculiar interests and aggrandizement is the cherished object of every State. If there are any who believe that the conduct of France, in taking part with America in her struggle for Independence, proceeded either from attachment to her as a nation, or an admiration of the principles that had caused her to oppose the encroachments of Britain on her rights, their error is extreme ; since enmity to Great Britain, and the hope of profiting by her misfor- tunes, was the great first cause of her hostility, and, I conscientiously believe, the sole object of her wishes — the great end of her interference. There never existed a nation more pointedly distinguished than the French, by the felicitous talent of discovering the influences operating on the governments with which they were connected, studiously counteracting them where they militated against her wishes; encouraging and directing them wheresoever according with, and likely to pro- mote her own views. The great anxiety shown, on all occasions, by the Baron de Kalb, to secure the memo- yanda of passing events, which were written in cipher, regularly entered in a book, and transmitted to the French Ambassador at Philadelphia, give just reason DE KALB. 213 to suppose that more was contained in his correspon- dence with that distinguished character, than he wished to meet the eyes of the associates who surrounded him. His connection with France was doubtless simi- lar to that of other officers of that nation, serving in America; the nature of which may be easily under- stood, by a reference to an intercepted letter from General Du Portail to the Count de St. Germain, Minister of War, dated " Camp at White Marsh, four miles from Philadelphia, November 12th, 1777," which may be found in Stedman's History of the American War, vol. 1. p. 390. Intent only on the great object of his mission, the transmission of secret intelligence to his trans-atlantic friends, and regardless of his obliga- tions to the government whose bread he ate, and whose character he was bound by every sense of duty To de- fend, we find him calumniating them without a blush, and boldly asserting, " it has not been owing to the good conduct of the Americans, that the campaign upon the whole has terminated rather fortunately, but to the fault of the English." Again, ^' before the war the American people, though they did not live in luxury, enjoyed in abundandance every requisite to make life comfortable and happy ; they passed a great part of their time in smoking, and drinking wine or spirituous liquors. Such was the disposition of the peo- ple. Sore against the grain, then, their sudden transfor- mation into soldiers, reduced to lead a life of hardships and frugality; nor will it be considered surprising, that they should prefer the yoke of the English, to Liberty purchased at the expense of the comforts of life." Still further; " you will be astonished, Sir, at this language, but such are these people, — who move without spring or energy, without vigour, without passion for a cause in which they are engaged, and which they follow- only as the impulse of the hand that iirst put them in motion directs. 1 here is a hundred times more en- 214 DE KALB. thusiasm for this Revolution in any of our coffee- houses in Paris, than in all the thirteen Provinces united." Again ; " It is necessary, then, that France, to accomplish this Revolution, should furnish these people with every requisite to lessen the hardships of war. True, it will cost some millions, but they will be well laid out in annihilating the power of England, which, when bereft of her Colonies, without a navy, and without commerce, w^ill lose her consequence in the world, and leave France without a rival." Speak- ing of the policy of sending French troops to America, he adds, *' that would be the way to mar all. The people here, though at war with the English, (we see it every day,) in spite of all that France has done, and means to do for them, would prefer a reconciliation with the English, rather than receive, in force, the men in the world they most fear." And finally, concludes this precious epistle by saying, " I have perhaps, Sir, in my letter, exceeded what you required, but pardon the length of the dissertations I have gone into, from a desire to satisfy your wishes, and render my stay here as useful as it is in my power to make it." That " no man can serve two masters," we know from the very highest authority. Preferences will be given, and preference is injury. That these political adventurers would act with vigour against the com- mon enemy, there can be no doubt ; they would fight for America to repel the encroachments of Britain, but bring into competition the interests of France with those of America, and every wish for the prosperity of their adopted, would be lost in their devotion to their native country. Yet, while I mention these circum- stances, the more clearly to develope the decidedly in- terested views of France, and the services required of her agents, serving under the banners of iVmerica, although they necessarily diminish the claims of the Baron dc Kalb to the pure and disinterested patriotism, DE KALB. 215 that, as a leader of an army contending for the most sacred rights of man, he mii^ht be supposed to possess, I allow him every possible merit as a soldier, and the most exalted claims to applause for the gallantry with which he fought; the unruffled temper and patient re- signation with which he viewed the approach, and met the stroke of death. Nor is he less to be applauded for the grateful recollection expressed for the exem- plary intrepidity of the Delaware and Maryland Regi- ments which he commanded, sending, even in the agonies of death, by his Aid-de-Camp, the Chevalier De Buysson, his warmest thanks for their heroic exer- tions, and expressing his delight, that though unsuc- cessful in battle, he had led into action men so highly meriting the palm of victory. THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE. The meritorious services of this gallant young noble- man, are too well known to every American, to need recapitulation here. He certainly appeared to engage in the Republican cause, with more enthusiasm, and to feel more genuine and sincere attachment to the citizens of the United States, than any foreigner in the service. He was brave almost to a fault; in executing orders, romantically so : but when intrusted with sepa- rate command, though possessing all the fire of youth, conducted himself with a degree of caution and pru- dence, that would have been creditable to the calm temper and circumspection of age. He was generous in the extreme. On his very first landing in Carolina, in testimony of his respect and high admiration of the gallant defence made by General Moultrie, of the pass 216 DE LA FAYETTE. at Sullivan's Island, he presented him with clothing, arms, and accoutrements for one hundred men. When in command at the North, every officer serving under him received a present of a handsome sword ; and there was not a private in the line, who did not, by his liberal distribution of clothing and other comforts, reap the benefit of his sympatliy and benevolence. Full of ardour during the contest for victory; wheresoever an advantage was obtained, humanity appeared the leading feature iu his character, since he invariably showed far greater disposition to sooth than aggravate misfortune, i have, in another place, given a noble example of his forbearance, when storming one of the advanced redoubts of the British at York Town. In short, he possessed in so high a degree the character of an accomplished and perfect soldier, as to gain the confidence of his superiors, the affections of his equals, and the respect and veneration of all who served under him. It is no trifling compliment to say, that next to the Commander in Chief, and the intrepid Greene, no General stood higher in the public favour, or more constantly commanded the admiration of the army, than La Fayette. DISTINGUISHED NAVAL OFFICERS. It would be an unpardonable dereliction of dutyj did I neglect to mention the services of several Naval Officers, who, even from the very earliest period of the revolutionary struggle for Independence, gave strong indication, and flattering presage of that superior skill and spirit of enterprise, that has, in latter limes, so highly exalted the reputation of the American Marine. The field for encomium is extensive — the opportuni- ties for bestowing praise far greater than could have been expected, at a moment when the overwhelming power of the British Navy, appeared to render every effort to resist it chimerical. The first trump of war, however, appears to have been the signal for energy and active enterprise, calling into exertion, whatever the ardent impulses of patriotism could suggest, as beneficial to the public weal ; for, while the enemy still held their post at Boston, even in the harbour itself, in view of, and frequently under the very guns of the men of war, achievements of bold and hardy daring were accomplished, that Britons, with all their boast of superiority on the ocean, would have been proud to add to the chronicles of their Naval History. I shall select a few instances in support of my asser- tion, and could, with great facility, many others, did I not regard the proofs brought forward as amply vsufficient. 28 218 MANLY. CAPTAIN MANLY. At the mouth of the port of Boston, and frequently in full view of the British fleet, Captain Manly made many prizes. I would particularly mention a store ship, bound in, which had on board a thirteen-inch brass mortar, several pieces of brass cannon, several thousand small arms, and a complete assortment of ordnance stores and laboratory utensils. He took, at the same time, an armed sloop, serving her as a ten- der ; and shortly after, another fine ship and a snow of considerable value. The spirit of enterprise, encou- raged by success, he sailed in the privateer Hancock, on a cruise, and falling in with His Britannic Majesty's sloop of war Fox, compelled her to surrender. Some time after this, commanding the privateer Jason, he was attacked by two British privateers, the one of eighteen, the other of ten guns. He reserved his fire till he came close upon them — run his vessel betwixt the two, and by a well-directed broadside, fired into each, compelled them both to strike their colours and surrender. The Americans had already learnt to fire with deliberation and effect. Short as the contest was, the larger privateer lost thirty of her crew. CAPTAIN HARRADEN, Of the privateer Pickering, of sixteen guns, cruising near Sandy-Hook, fell in with a ship of fourteen guns, a brig of ten, and a sloop of eight guns, and after an action of one hour and a half, captured the whole. In HARRADEN, GEDDES AND JONES. 219 the same cruise, he captured also, the Pomona of twelve, the sloop of war Hope of fourteen, and Royal George Cutter of fourteen guns. CAPTAIN GEDDES, In the Holker privateer, did incalculable mischief to the British trade. But changing into the Congress letter of marque, of Philadelphia, mounting twenty guns, encountered and captured His Britannic Ma- jesty's sloop of war Savage, of the same force. PAUL JONES, Sailing in the Ranger, with despatches to our Minister at the French Court, fell in with and took two valuable prizes on his passage ; and having quickly prepared his vessel for a cruize, entered the Irish Channel, landed and spiked thirty-six cannon mounted in battery at Whitehaven — encountered, and after a severe action, took the Drake sloop of war — and after an absence of twenty-eight days, returned to Brest with two hundred prisoners. His activity giving great increase to his reputation, he was appointed to the command of a small squadron, and sailed from France with the hope of intercepting the Baltic fleet returning to England. During his cruize he made many valu- able captures, and spread great alarm on the British Coast, threatening a descent, and exciting great alarm both at Leith and Hull ; and at length, falling in with the fleet which he sought, fought an action of such ^20 JONES AND BARRY. desperate severity, that history affords no parallel to it. In the Bonne Homaie Richard of forty guns, he compelled the Serapis of forty-four, to strike, and took possession of her at the moment that his own ship sunk at her side, being so shattered by the obsti- nacy and long continuance of the conflict, that time was not allowed for the removal of the wounded, who had barely time to see the flag of their country floating triumphantly above that of their enemy, before they sunk into eternity ! CAPTAIN BARRY, While the British were in possession of Philadel- phia, Barry, with the boats of the Alliance frigate, which lay considerably higher up, passed the city with muflied oars, and proceeding down the river, near Port Penn, surprised and captured a British schooner of ten guns, and four large transports, without the loss of a man. In the year 1781, while on a cruize in the Alliance, he took the Alert of ten guns, the Mars of twenty and one hundred and twelve men, Minerva of ten guns and fifty-five men, and heroically closed his victories, by capturing two men of war sent out for the express purpose of destroying him. In the conflict he was yery severely wounded ; but increasing the eflbrts of his men by his animating example and harangues, the Atalanta of twenty guns and one hundred and thirty men, and Trepassay of fourteen guns and eighty men? w^ere compelled to surrender. BARNEY. 221 CAPTAIN BARNEY. I HAVE received from a friend in Baltimore, a sketch of the life and achievements of this meritorious Offi- cer, that is highly worthy of attention, and replete with occurrences that could not fail to gratify every American Patriot ; but, as they chiefly relate to deeds of gallantry that have taken place at a later period, I must content myself, at present, with mentioning the action in the revolutionary war, that in the greatest degree exalted his reputation. I would, however, previously mention to his honour, that he was the first man who displayed the American Flag in Maryland, beating up for volunteers to join the expedition under Commodore Hopkins, intended against New-Provi- dence, and with such success, as to engage a crew for the Hornet, the vessel to which he was attached, in a single day. Great, indeed, was the variety of service in which he was engaged, and as fluctuating his suc- cesses and his mifortunes — a captive to-day — to-mor- row he triumphed in the arms of victory ; but, in all situations, and under every change, however eventful, supported a character of unblemished honour, and of an intrepidity that could not be exceeded. Early in the spring of 1782, the State of Pennsyl- vania, fitting out some small vessels to protect the Delaware Bay against the depredations of the Refugee barges, fitted out at New-York, appointed him to the command of a small ship, mounting sixteen six poun- ders, and carrying one hundred and ten men, called the Hyder Ally. In this vessel, giving convoy to a fleet proceeding down the Bay, he came to anchor near Cape May, waiting for a wind, that the vessels under his charge might proceed to sea, his instructions con- fining him to the special object of protecting them 222 BARNEY. against the Refugee boats. Two suspicious ships and a brig making towards him, he ordered the convoy, by signal, to proceed up the Bay, which they did so suc- cessfully, that one only, which unfortunately grounded, fell into the hands of the enemy. There are two channels up the Bay. One of the ships, and the brig, followed closely in that which he had entered ; the other ship (a frigate) took the second, with the inten- tion of heading him, and cutting off every means of escape. The brig first approached him, fired her broad- side, and pressed forward in pursuit of the convoy. The ship then advanced within pistol shot ; a well- directed broadside from the Hyder Ally, caused no abatement in the vigour of her attack. She closed, and came very near on board. The Hyder Ally then crossed her hawse, and got entangled in her fore- rigging, and raking her by a continual fire of great guns and small arms, after a severe contest of twenty- six minutes, brought down her colours. His prize proved to be the General Monk, mounting twenty guns, nine pounders, and one hundred and thirty-six men, commanded by Captain Rogers. She lost in killed and wounded 63 men — 20 killed. Among the latter were the 1st Lieutenant, Master, Purser, Doctor, Boatswain and Gunner ; — among the wounded, the Captain, and every other officer (one midshipman ex- cepted.) The Hyder Ally had four men killed and eleven wounded. The Legislature of Pennsylvania, in testimony of their admiration of his gallantry, pre- sented him with a gold hiked sword, by the hands of the Governor of the State. The prize was purchased by the General Government, and Barney had the hap- piness to be informed by his friend, Robert Morris, that having added her to the navy of the United States, he was unanimously appointed to command her. I will mention particularly but one other naval combat. BIDDLE. 223 CAPTAIN BIDDLE, In the Randolph, in one cruise from Charleston, took the True Briton, of twenty guns, and three other Jamaica men. But sailing a second time from that port, with a detachment of fifty men of the 1st South- Carolina Continental Regiment, who served as ma- rines, fell in with, and in the darkness of night, en- gaged the Yarmouth, a two decker of 64 guns. The contest was short ; the Randolph blew up, and of her crew, 315 persons, four only, who were taken up some days after on a piece of the wreck, escaped. Carolina lost several of her gallant sons, and particularly lamented Captain Joor, and the Lieutenants Gray and Simmons. The gallant Truxton, Dale, Decatur, (father of our late lamented Commodore,) Young, Robeson, Roberts, Keene, Hall, Foster, Williams, Hallet, Numan, Weeks, Waters, O'Brian, and Murray, performed services of the highest importance to their country, and gave examples of heroism that have not, and I trust never will be lost by their influences, to exalt the naval cha- racter of their country. CONDUCT OF THE WHIG LADIES. Having thus far progressed in my Anecdotes, I come to the dehghtful duty, though last not least attractive, of exhibiting instances of that magnanimity and intrepid firmness, that so pre-eminently distin- guished the fair daughters of Carolina. But here the hope of successful eflbrt forsakes me ; for, as often as I take up my pen to pay the tribute of applause so justly due to their merits, and strive, with becoming gratitude to record them, I fail in the attempt, and find myself deprived of every ability but that of admiring them. It is no idle compliment to assert, that to the [>atriot- ism of the ladies of South-Carolina, is in a great degree to be attributed the freedom of their country. The invasion of the enemy in 1780 had extended their authority over the whole State. Charleston had fallen. The entire Continental force, and the greater part of the North Carolina and Virginia line were prisoners. The disastrous surprises at Monk's Corner and La- neau's, and total defeat of Colonel Buford, had dis- sipated every prospect of effectual resistance. Some dauntless spirits, indeed, rose superior to calamity, but it must be acknowledged, that wearied out by hopeless warfare, and by accumulated misfortunes, the voice of the majority led to temporary submission. The enemy triumphing in success, and confident that opposition was at an end, no longer held out the lure of concilia- tion. Insult and arrogance became the order of the day, and adversity was aggravated by every variety of insolence that malice could invent, and tyranny inflict* CONDUCT OF THE WHIG LADIES, 225 No spirit of moderation restrained the passions excited by what may be esteemed domestic conflicts, nor abated the virulence betwixt contending powers, which is the natural result of war. The most distinguished patriots whose age and superior wisdom, were sup- posed to influence public sentiments, were arrested on frivolous pretexts, and sent into exile. The young and active, impatiently waiting the hour of exchange, to resume their stations under the banners of their country, were crowded into prison-ships, as fit subjects of retaliation, should General Greene adhere to his purpose of avenging the murder of Colonel Hayne, by the execution of a British officer of equal rank. To aggravate misfortune, two irregular courts, founded in the spirit of military depotism, were established ; the Boards of Police and Sequestration, by these new energies were given to injustice and persecution, and their decisions prove, that tyranny never invented in- struments better calculated to destroy the peace of society.* * In the causes brougbt before the Board of Police, not the Lawyers only, but the Judges also took fees. On one occasioi\, a suitor, whose case was pending, expressing his fears to a friend, that the decree, in defiance of every principle of justice, would be against him — " Why do you not fee Sir Eger- ToJ^?" was the reply. " Because," rejoined the suitor, '' I know that my oppo- n€^ has already given him ten guineas." " Quick, then, to his house," said the friend, *' present a fee of twenty guineas, and rest assured, that your suc- cess will be complete. My opinion rests on my experience of his civility." The character of Sir £. Lf.igh, is so well known in Carolina, that it is suffi- cient to establish the infamy of a Court, to say that he presided at it. Thomas Phepoe, pre-eminent in iniquity, and his active agent, declared in Court — " That he had appeared to take part with America, by the advice of his friend, Chief Justice Gordon, the more effectually to bewilder the councils of the Legislature, of which he was a member, and to gain intelligence of the de- signs of Government, the more effectually to betray them." I would not be supposed to implicate Lieutenant Governor Bull, Colonel Innis, Mr. James Simpson, and other members in the iniquitous decrees of these men. The two last had left the Bench before Sir Egeuton Leigh presided at it. The first did not act as a Judge till after his death. .29 226 MRS. MOTTE. Under such accumulated evils, that manly spirit which alone could secure success, might have sunk, but for the cheering smiles and intrepid firmness of the fair sex, who by sharing the calamities of their suffer- ing countrymen, taught how to oppose and subdue them. Intent by precept and example to frustrate the machinations of the enemy, whatsoever the shape whicJi they assumed, defiance was bid to their threats, and the invitations to engage in scenes of gaiety and dissipation, indignantly rejected. The dungeons of the Provost, the crowded holds of the prison-ships, were anxiously sought, and every delicate attention bestovv- ed on the victims who inhabited them, that sympathy could suggest ; every consolation that could mitigate suffering, and encourage hope ; every persuasion that could animate to virtuous perseverance, and secure unyielding fidelity to the glorious cause of Liberty. The instances of magnanimity that occur to memory are innumerable ; but, a few only can be mentioned, and my greatest difficulty is, to select examples, where the whole have such exalted claims to admiration. MRS. JACOB MOTTE. The patriotic enthusiasm of Mrs. Jacob Motte, de- mands particular notice. When compelled by painful duty. Lieutenant Colonel Lee informed her, " that in ordt^r to accomplish the immediate surrender of the British garrison occupying her elegant mansion, its destruction was indispensable," she instantly replied, " the sacrifice of my property is nothing, and I shall view its destruction with delight, if it shall in any degree contribute to the good of my country." In MRS. HEXJV^ARD. 227 proof of her sincerity she immediately presented the arrows by which combustible matter was to be con- veyed to the building. MRS. THOMAS HEYWARD. Nor is the firmness of MrS: Thomas Heyward less w^orthy of admiration. An order having been issued for a general illumination, to celebrate the supposed victory at Guilford, the front of the house occupied by Mrs. Heyward and her sister, Mrs. George Abbot Hall, remained in darkness. Indignant at so decided a mark of disrespect, an officer (I hope for the sake of humanity, and the honour of the military character, unauthorized) forced his way into her presence, and sternly demanded of Mrs. Heyward, " how dare you disobey the order which has been issued ; why. Madam, is not your house illuminated ?" *' Is it possible ?br me. Sir," replied the lady, with perfect calmness, " to feel a spark of joy ? Can I celebrate the victory of your army, while my husband remains a prisoner at St. Augustine." " That," rejoined the officer, " is a mat- ter of little consequence ; the last hopes of rebellion are crushed by the defeat of Greene : You shall illu- minate." " Not a single light," replied the lady, *' shall be placed wnth my consent, on such an occa- sion, in any window in the house." " Then, Madam, I will return with a party, and before midnight level it to the ground." ** You have power to destroy. Sir, and seem well disposed to use it, but over my opinions you possess no control. I disregard your menaces, and resolutely declare, / will 7iot illuminate.^'' Would to God that I could name the man, capable of thus in- sulting a helpless female, that I might hold him up to 228 ' MRS. HEYWARD. the scorn of the world ! Mrs. Hey ward was graceful and majestic in person, beautiful in countenance, an- gelic in dispostion. None but a ruffian could have treated her with indignity. On the anniversay of the surrender of Charleston, May 12th, 1781, an illumina- tion was again demanded, in testimony of joy for an event so propitious to the cause of Britain. Mrs. G. A. Hall, who laboured under a wasting disease, lay at the point of death. Again Mrs. Hey ward refused to obey. Violent anger was excited, and the house was assailed by a mob with brickbats, and every species of nauseating trash that could offend or annoy. Her reso- lution remained unshaken, and while the tumult con- tinued, and shouts and clamour increased indignity, Mrs. Hall expired.^ MRS. REBECCA EDWARDS. The Orator of the Society of the Cincinnati of South-Carolina, at the celebration of the National Festival on the 4th of July, 1797, thus extols the magnanimity of Mrs. Rebecca Edwards : — ** The Spartan mother delivering his shield to her son depart- ing for the army, nobly bade him, ' Return with it or upon it.' The sentiment was highly patriotic, but surely not superior to that which animated the bosom of a distinguished female of our own State, who, * I would mention to the honour of the Town-Major Fraser, that he waited on Mrs. Hey ward, and strongly expressing his regret for the indignities that had been offered her, requested permission to repair the damage done to the house, but she resolutely refused, assuring him, that though sensible of his attention, and thankful for it, the efforts of the ruling authorities to obliterate the recollection of insults, which they ought to have prevented, could not avail. She could forgive, but never forget them- MRS. EDWARDS. * 229 when the British Officer presented the mandate which arrested her sons as objects of retaliation, less sensible of private affliction, then attached ^to their honour, and the interests of her country, stifled the tender feel- ings of the mother, and heroically bade them despise the threats of their enemies, and stedfastly persist to support the glorious cause in which they had engaged. That if the threatened sacrifice should follow, they would carry a parent's blessing, and the good opinion of every virtuous citizen along with them to the grave. But, if from the frailty of human nature, (of the possi- bility of which she would not suffer an idea to enter her bosom) they were disposed to temporize, and ex- change their liberty for safety, they must forget her as a mother, nor subject her to the misery of ever behold- ing them again." MISS MARY ANNA GIBBES. ^ During the invasion of Provost, while the British army kept possession of the sea-board, a Hessian bat- talion occupied the house and plantation of Mr. Robert Gibbes, on the banks of the Stono. To excite general alarm, and more particularly to annoy the post, two gallies from Charleston, ascending the river in the night time, unexpectedly opened a heavy fire of grape and round shot on the house and neighbouring eiu'-ampment. The family, who had been allowed to remain in some of the upper apartments, were now ordered to quit the premises, and Mr. Gibbes, a mar- tyr to infirmity, and his numerous family, set our at midnight for an adjoining plantation. When beyond the reach of the shot, which had incessantly passed 230 MISS GIBBES. over the heads of the party, an inquhy being made respecting the safety of the children, it was found, that in the hurry and terror of the moment, a distant relation, a boy as yet in early infancy, had been left behind. The servants were entreated to return for him, but refused ; and he must have been left to his fate, had not the heroism and affection of Miss Mary Anna Gibhes^ then but thirteen years old, inspired her with courage to fly to his rescue. The darkness of the night was profound, yet she returned alone, the distance being fully a mile ; and after a long refusal, having by tears and entreaties, obtained admission from the centinel, ascended to the third story. There she found the child, and carried him off in safety, though frequently covered with the dirt thrown up by the shot, and greatly terrified by their constant ap- proach to her person. Public gratitude is due to this intrepid action, since the gallant Lieutenant Colonel Fenwick, so much distinguished by his services in the late war, was the person saved. MRS. BREWTON. The Anecdote which I am now to relate, shows from what trivial circumstances persecution often arose. Mrs, Breivt07i, (since Foster) one of the most amiable and enlightened of the whig ladies, was an inmate of Mrs. Motte's family, at the time of the destruction of her house. Meeting with her shortly after the signing of the preliminary articles of peace at Philadelphia, I inquired — '' How it had happened, that she, a help- less, unprotected widow, without any charge of im- l)roper conduct, has so far incurred the enmity of the British Commanders, as to have been arrested without MRS. BREWTON. 231 ceremony, and hurried unprepared, into exile." She answered — " That she knew no act of her's which had merited such ungentlemanly and inhuman treat- ment." Entering, however, into conversation relative to the siege and surrender of Fort Motte, she gave at once a clue to the transaction. While the American forces were at a distance, Major M^Pherson, the com- mander of the post, suffered Mrs. Motte and her family to remain, and an appartment was allowed for their accommodation. But when the post at Thomp- son's, but a little removed from him, was attacked and carried, anticipating the fate which awaited him, imme- diate removal was not only advised, but insisted on. At the moment of departure Mrs. Brewton seeing a quiver of arrows, which had been presented to Mr. Motte by a favourite African, said to her friend, " I will take these with me, to prevent their destruction by the soldiers." With the quiver in her hands, she was passing the gate, when Major M'Pherson, drawing forth a shaft, and applying the point to his finger, said, " what have you here, Mrs. Brewton." " For God's sake. Major, be careful," she replied, " these arrows are poisoned." The ladies immediately passed on to the out-house, which they were now to inhabit. In the siege which directly followed, when the destruc- tion of the house was determined upon, and missiles eagerly sought for by Lieutenant Colonel Lee, for conveying the fire to the shingles, these arrows being remembered, were presented by Mrs. Motte, with a wish for the happy accomplishment of the end pro- posed. It was afterwards known, that the first arrow missed its aim, and fell at the feet of the CoQimandant, who taking it up, with strong expressions of anger, exclaimed, " I thank you, Mrs. Brewton." The second arrow took effect, and set fire to the roof, when the brisk discharge of a six pounder being maintained by Captain Finley, in the direction of the stair-case, every 232 MRS. BREWTON. effort to extinguish it proved fruitless, until, from the apprehension of the roof falling in, the garrison were compelled to surrender at discretion. « General Greene arriving soon after, paid to Major M'Pherson the tribute of applause due to his excellent defence, de- claring, " that such gallantry could not fail to procure for him a high increase of reputation." This compli- ment, however, does not appear to have soothed the mortified soldier, for, walking immediately up to Mrs. Brewton, he said, " to you^ Madam, I owe this dis- grace ; it would have been more charitable to have allowed me to perish by poison, than to be thus com- pelled to surrender my post to the enemy." This speech alone, accounts for the enmity against Mrs. Brewton; but by the playfulness of a lively disposition she had offended another individual, whose clamours could only be appeased by severe retribution. An Ensign named Ainiel, a Philadelphian by birth, who had joined the British, made it his chief occupation to provoke the ladies of the family by taunts and invec- tives against their countrymen. He particularly de- lighted to bid them admire his prowess, while cutting off the heads of pine saplings, w-hich, according to the whim of the moment, he Renominated Greene, Marion, Sumter, ^c. ^^c. After the surrender of the post, Mrs. Brewton contriving to join this youth, near the scene of his former bravadoes, sportively requested that he would again treat her with an exhibition of his talent in smiting the foe. " But valiant Captain," she added, *' where' is your sword ? Such a hero as you would only have yielded it in death ! And where are your resentments ? Did I not see you but a little time since, bowing to earth before the very man you have so often, in idea, shortened by the head. Is Marion no more to feel the power of your arm, nor Sumter be compelled to bite the dust ? Smother your anger, most ferocious vSir, and lot the generosity which you have expe- MRS. BREWTON. 233 rienced, make you more merciful hereafter." Doubt- less the irony of this speech was treasured up in his memory, and was one cause of the severity exercised towards this lady. Shortly after this Major Hyrne, appointed a Commissioner to negotiate an exchange of prisoners, being on his way to Charleston, Mrs. Brew- ton, anxious to see her friends in the garrison, obtained permission to accompany him. On entering the town she was met by an officer, who anxiously inquiring, " what was the news in the country," she replied, " that all nature smiled, for every thing was Greene down to Monk's Corner." Her hon mot was not unnoticed ; an order for her immediate departure was issued, and, escorted at a late hour beyond the gates, she was directed to return no more. On the following day, however, from caprice, or probably to confine her influence to more narrow bounds, she was recalled, and for a time was left without molestation. It was her lot, however, perpetually to encounter difficulties. An officer departing for the interior calling on her, politely offered to take charge of her commands to her friends. " I should like to write," replied Mrs. Brew- ton, " but have no idea of having my letters read at the head of Marion's Brigade." The officer departed, but wjthin a few days repeated his visit, to thank her, he asserted, for the rapidity with which she had com- municated the intelligence of his movements, as he had actually been taken by Marion, and returned to town on parole. Nor is it improbable, that an incident still more trivial, might have contributed to her exile. The liveliness of Mrs. Brewton was very fascinating, and the more liberal and enlightened among the Bri- tish, who met with very little of wit or intellect, anx- iously sought her society. Walking in Broad-street, in deep mourning, according to the fashion of the Whig ladies, an English officer joined her at the mo- moment that a crape flounce was accidentally torn 30 234 MRS. BREWTON. from her dress. She picked it up, and passing the house of John Rutledge, the absent Governor, then occupied by Colonel Moncrief, she exclaimed, " where are you, dearest Governor; surely the magnanimous Britons will not deem it a crime, if I cause your house as well as your friends, to mourn your absence." Say- ing this, she tied the crape to the front railing, and departed. Whether her companion mentioned the circumstance, or that her conduct was observed by persons within, (which is more probable,) it is certain that, in a few hours after, she was arrested and sent off to Philadelphia. MRS. CHANNING. Shortly after the commencement of the war, the family of Dr. Channing, then residing in England, removed to France, and sailed in a stout and well- armed vessel for America. They had proceeded but a little way, when they were attacked by a privateer. A fierce engagement ensued, during which Mrs. Chan- ning kept the deck, handing cartridges, aiding the wounded, and exhorting the crew to resist until death. Their fortitude, however, did not correspond with the ardour of her wishes, and the colours were struck. Seizing the pistols and side arms of her husband, she threw them into the sea, declaring that she would rather die, than see him surrender them to the enemy. MRS. ELLIOTT. 235 MRS. CHARLES ELLIOTT. With peculiar gratification I will now speak of a lady in the highest degree entitled to admiration. A Patriot by inheritance, being the daughter of Mr. Tho- mas Ferguson, one of the most intrepid and strenuous promoters of the Revolution, Mrs. Charles Elliott appeared to consecrate every thought, and every hour of existence, to the interests of America. Undaunted amidst the storms that desolated her country, her energies increased with the pressure of calamity. Her benevolence to the distressed, her persuasive eloquence, skilfully employed to inspire the timid with confidence, and to strengthen the resolves of the firm, were never more conspicuous, than when success was most des- paired of. Beneath her roof the sick and wounded not only found shelter, but the tenderest attentions — the poor shared her purse — the persecuted the conso- lations of her sympathy. She daily visited her captive friends ; and by her cheering smiles and animating conversation, revived and sustained hope, inspiring a confidence of success equal to their most ardent de- sires. While such her conduct towards her friends, her influence over many of the superior Officers in the British army, was astonishing, Harsh and unbending to others, there was a charm attached to Mrs. Elliott, that rendered them the slaves of her will. Her fasci- nations forbid denial. Possessed of natural ease of manners, great cheerfulness in conversation, and a cap-> tivating sportiveness of disposition, asperities were so much softened, that when compelled to solicit favours, she seldom applied in vain. The advantage to our army arising from her influence, was both salutary and extensive ; and the supplies drawn from the British, Garrison in consequence of it, of the highest impor° 236 MRS. ELLIOTT. tance. I do not know an Officer who did not owe to Ker some essential increase of comfort, and very frequently gratuitously bestowed. She was a just representative of generosity personified. I have said that her requests were rarely denied. In one in- stance, however, her application, though for mercyj was unavailing. The impressive petition, in behalf of the unfortunate Colonel Hayne, presented by the ladies of Charleston, and attributed to her pen, was rejected. It merited a different fate ; but, when we recollect that it was addressed to Lord RawdoUf astonishment ceases. When the steady Patriot, Mr. Thomas Ferguson, was first arrested and put on board a transport, to be sent into exile, his daughter, Mrs. Charles Elliott, was in the country, but on receiving the intelligence, imme- diately repaired to Charleston. Her earnest solici- tation to bid her parent a tender adieu, being favou- rably attended to, she hastened on board the vessel in which he was confined, but had scarcely entered the cabin, when oppressed both with grief and sickness, she fainted and fell. The Captain, much alarmed, recommended a thousand remedies in rapid succession. When saying in conclusion, " I have a box of exquisite French liqueur — a cordial would certainly revive her," she started from her couch and exclaimed, " Who speaks of the French — God bless the nation !" and turning to her father, with much feeling continued — " Oh, my father, sink not under this cruel stroke of fate — let not oppression shake your fortitude, nor the delusive hope of gentler treatment cause you, for an instant, to swerve from your duty. The valour of your countrymen, aided by the friendly assistance of France, will speedily dissipate the gloom of our imme- diate prospects — we shall experience more propitious times — again meet, and bq happy !" MRS. ELLIOTT. 237 ^^ There was in the Legion of Pulaski, a young French Officer of singularly fine form and appearance, named Celeron^ as he passed the dwelling of Mrs. Elliott, a British Major, whose name is lost, signifi- cantly pointing him out, said — " See, Mrs. Elliott, one of your illustrious allies — what a pity it is, that the hero has lost his sioord,^^ ** Had two thousand such men," replied the lady, " been present to aid in the defence of our city, think you. Sir, that I should ever have been subjected to the malignity of your observa- tion." At the moment, a Negro, trigged out in full British uniform, happened to pass — " See, Major," continued she, *' one of your allies — bow with gra- titude for the service received from such honourable associates — caress and cherish them — the fraternity is excellent, and will teach us, more steadily to contend against the results." In the indulgence of wanton asperities towards the patriotic Fair, the aggressors were not unfrequently answered with a keenness of repartee that left them little cause for triumph. The haughty Tarleton, vaunting his feats of gallan- try to the great disparagement of the Officers of the Continental Cavalry, said to a lady at Wilmington, " I have a very earnest desire to see your far-famed hero, Colonel Washington," " Your wish. Colonel, might have been fully gratified," she promptly replied, " had you ventured to look behind you after the battle of the Cowpens." It was in this battle, that Washington had wounded Tarleton in the hand, which gave rise to a still more pointed retort. Conversing with Mrs. Wiley Jones, Colonel Tarleton observed — " You ap- pear to think very highly of Colonel Washington ; and yet I have been told, that he is so ignorant a fellow, that he can hardly write his own name." " It may be the case," she readily replied, " but no man better than yourself, Colonel, can testify, that he knows how to make his markJ^ / 258 MRS. HALL, ELLIOTT AND PINCKNEY. MRS. DANIEL HALL, Having obtained permission to pay a visit to her mother on John's Island, was on the point of embark- ing, when an officer stepping forward, in the most authoritative manner demanded the key of her trunk, " What do you expect to find there ?" said the lady. " I seek for treason,''^ was the reply. " You may save yourself the trouble of search, then," said Mrs. Hall — ''You may find a plenty of it at my tongue^ $ MRS. CHARLES ELLIOTT. An ofiicer, distinguished by his inhumanity and con- stant oppression of the unfortunate, meeting Mrs. Charles Elliott in a garden adorned with a great variety of flowers, asked the name of the Camomile, which appeared to flourish with peculiar luxuriance. " The Rebel Flower,^^ she replied. " Why was that name given to it ?" said the officer. ** Because," re- joined the lady, " it thrives most when most trampled MRS. CHARLES PINCKNEY. To Mrs. Pinckney, the wife of Colonel Charles Pinckney, a British officer of rank once said — " It is impossible not to admire the intrepid firmness of the ladies of your country. Had your men but half their resolution, we might give up the contest. America would be invincible." MRS. ELLIOTT AND MRS. HOLMES. ^39 MRS. SABINA ELLIOTT. So much were the ladies attached to the whig inte- rest, habituated to injuries, and so resolute in support- ing; them, that they would jocosely speak of misfor- tunes, though at the moment severely suffering under their pressure. Mrs. Sabina Elliott having wit- nessed the activity of an officer, who had ordered the plundering of her poultry houses, finding an old mus- covy drake, which had escaped the general search, still straying about the premises, had him caught, and mounting a servant on horseback, ordered him to follow and deliver the bird to the officer, with her compliments, as she concluded, that in the hurry of departure, it had been left altogether by accident. ^ MRS. ISAAC HOLMES. Among the patriots selected for transportation to St. Augustine, was Mr. Isaac Holmes. The imperious call on him at early dawn, to quit his chamber, and deliver him&lf up to the guard who waited to carry carry him off, caused him to descend the stairs when but partially dressed. His gentle wife, apj)alled by no fears, exhibiting no symptoms of despondency, had followed him in silence. The mandate being given for departure, she handed him his coat, and with un- daunted resolution said, " take it, my husband, and submit. Waver not in your principles, but be true to your country. Have no fears for your family; God is good, and will provide for them." 240 MRS, SHUBRICK. MRS. RICHARD SHUBRICK. Here was, indeed, a heroine to be proud of. Her eyes sparkled with feeling and vivacity, while her countenance so plainly bespoke her kindness and benevolence, that sorrow and misfortune instinctively sought shelter under her protection. There was an appearance of personal debility about her, that ren- dered her peculiarly interesting ; it seemed to solicit the interest of every heart, and the man would have felt himself degraded who would not have put his life at hazard to serve her. Yet, when firmness of character was requisite, when fortitude was called for to repel the encroachments of aggression, there was not a more in- trepid being in existence. I will present a noble instance of it. An American soldier, flying from a party of the enemy, sought her protection, and was promised it. The British pressing close upon him, insisted that he should be delivered up, threatening immediate and universal destruction in case of refusal. The ladies, her friends and companions, who were in the house with her, shrunk from the contest, and were silent ; but undaunted by their threats, this intrepid lady placed herself before the chamber into which the un- fortunate fugitive had been conducted, and resolutely said, — " To men of honour the chamber of a lady should be as sacred as the sanctuary ! I will defend the passage to it, though I perish. You may succeed, ^nd enter it, but it shall be over my corpse." " By God," said the officer, " if muskets were only placed in the hands of a few such women, our only safety- would be found in retreat. Your intrepidity, Madam, gives you security, from me you shall meet no further annoyance." Nor is this the only instance of her unconquerable fortitude. At Brabant, the seat of the respectable MRS. SHUBRICK. 241 and patriotic Bishop Smith, a Sergeant of Tarleton's Dragoons, eager for the acquisition of plunder, follow- ed the Overseer, a man advanced in years, into the apartment where the ladies of the family were assem- bled, and on his refusal to discover the spot in which the i)late was concealed, struck him with violence, in- flicting a severe sabre wound across the shoulders. Aroused by the infamy of the act, Mrs. Shubrick, start- ing from her seat, and placing herself betwixt the ruftian and his victim, resolutely said, " place yourself behind me Murdoch, the interposition of my body shall give you protection, or I will die:" then, addressing herself to the Ser^^.eant, exclaimed, '' O what a degra- dation of manhood, what departure from that gallantry which was once the characteristic of British soldiers. Human nature is degraded by your barbarity ; — but should you persist, then strike at me, for till I die, no further injury shall be done to te/i." The Sergeant, unable to resist such commanding eloquence, retired. The hope, however, of attaining the the object in view, very speedily subjected the unfortunate Murdoch to new persecution. He was tied up under the very tree where the plate was buried, and threatened with immediate execution, unless he would make the dis- covery required. But although well acquainted with the unrelenting severity of of his enemy, and earnestly solicited by his wife to save his life by a speedy con- fession of the place of deposit, he persisted resolutely, that a sacred trust was not to be betrayed, and actually succeeded in preserving it. When complimented at an after period on his heroic firmness, he asserted, that he was strengthened in his resolution by the recollec- tion that a part of the plate belonged to the churchy and that he should have considered it as sacrilege, had he suffered it, though a weakness of disposition, to fall into the hands of robbers. 31 242 MRS. IZARD. MRS. RALPH IZARD, During the period when the British were confined within very narrow limits, in the neighbourhood of Charleston, Mrs. Ralph Izard, of Fair Spring, residing near Dorchester, and within the range of their excur- sions, whenever they ventured beyond their lines, was frequently subjected to annoyance, but by the suavity of her manners, and polite attention to the officers who commanded, had happily preserved the plantation from destruction. Mr. Izard, who was distinguished by his activity, acting as Aid-de-Camp to the commanding officer of the Light Troops, was at home, when one of these parties appeared, and had scarcely time to enter a clothes-press, when the house was surrounded and fdled with British soldiers. They harf been apprised of his visit, and their object was to make him a prisoner. A search was therefore commenced, and menaces held out, that unless he voluntarily surrendered, a torch should drive him from the place of his concealment. The composure of Mrs. Izard, at such a moment, was astonishing; she betrayed no symptoms of apprehension, and though treated with more than usual indignity, an attempt being made to force her rings from her fingers, and much valuable property plundered in her presence, preserved her accustomed politeness, and behaved with such urbanity, as to induce the belief that the information communicated was incorrect, and the party were drawn off. Mr. Izard now quitted his hiding place, and rapidly passing the Ashley, gave notice of the proximity of the enemy. He chose a happy moment for his escape, for speedily returning, the soldiers immediately sought Mrs. Izard's chamber, and burst open the press, which they had not before disturbed, when missing their object, they again re- MRS. IZARD. 243 tired. On the alarm given by Mr. Izard, all on the other side of the river were on the alert. A body of Cavalry was pushed across Bacon's Bridge, who speedily overtook the retiring enemy, and so com- pletely routed them, that few only of their number returned within their lines to tell of their disaster. The wardrobe of Mr. Izard, consisting of Parisian dress coats, and much of the finery of his gayer days, with which several of these marauders had sportively arrayed themselves, was recovered, and handsomely presented by him to the victors, who had so rapidly revenged the interruption of his visit to his family. The contrivances adopted by the ladies, to carry from the British Garrison supplies to the gallant de- fenders of their country, were highly creditable to their ingenuity, and of infinite utility to their friends. The cloth of many a military coat, concealed with art, and not unfrequently made an appendage to female attire, has escaped the vigilance of the guards, ex- pressly stationed to prevent smuggling, and speedily converted into regimental shape, worn triumphantly in battle. Boots have, in many instances, been relin- quished by the delicate wearer to the active Partisan. I have seen a horseman's helmet concealed by a well arranged head-dress, and epaulettes delivered from the folds of the simple cap of a matron. Feathers and cockades were much in demand, and so cunningly hid, and handsomely presented, that he could have been no true Knight, who did not feel the obligation, to defend them to the last extremity. While such the heroism of the Whig Ladies, among those who, favouring opposite principles, became the intimate associates of the successful invaders, there was a wide distinction of conduct and character.— 244 MRS. M'CULLOCH. Whore peculiar merit calls for admiration, I should consider it unpardonable to withhold it. I have often heard the venerable Mrs. Barnwell of Beaufort, the mother of the patriotic brothers of that name, declare, and the accuracy of her statement has recently been confirmed by the respectable Mrs. Robert Gibhes, ihat while mirth and revelry invited to scenes of pleasure and dissipation, the good and benevolent Mrs. MCul- lochi was more frequently to be met with in the houses and society of the distressed, assuaging the afflictions of disease, and administering comfort to the captive, than in the gayer circles that surrounded her. Fol- lowing the fortunes of her husband to Europe, her attachment to her country was never diminished ; and falling prematurely a vicitm to disease, solicited and obtained a promise from her respectable father, that her remains should rest in the tomb of her ancestors. There was another lady, whose name circumstances of peculiar delicacy compel me to withhold. Did I reveal it, merited encomium might prove oifensive to a modesty that is invincible. Led, from the political creed of her friends and family, to favour the British interests, it never caused her, for an instant, to cherish illiberal animosity, or harbour a thought inconsistent with the purest dictates of humanity. If she engaged in scenes of gaity, it was evident from the calm tenor of her conduct, that it was more from necessity than choice. She could not consider the period, when her country was bleeding at every pore, a season of joy and festivity. Every act of oppression was abhorrent to her nature ; and when the noble Hayne became a victim of political animosity, she wept his fate as she would have done that of a martyr. The benevolent feeling that distinguished her early life, has, in. no degree, lost its lustre ; and though now living much in AND OTHERS. 245 retirement, commands a respect and admiration, that proclaims her an honour and ornament to her country. Connected with her by close ties of consanguinity, and still more by the most generous sympathies of benevolence, another lady, young, amiable, and intel- ligent, shewed every disposition lo assuage the afflic- tions of the unfortunate. She married immediately after the war a British officer, who settled in Carolina, when unhappily, death arrested her honourable career, and robbed society of one of its greatest ornaments. It would be ingratitude in me, who knew the value of their friendship, in the hour of the deepest distress, not to say, that in the benevolence of Dr. Baron's family, the oppressed and broken spirit was ever sure to meet sympathy and consolation. The generous exertions of this amiable man, unceasingly employed to soften the asperities of oppressive power, as far as his influence could prevail — his liberal and gratuitous offer of advice and medicine to the afflicted and penny- less, gave him unbounded claim to praise, and justified that ardent attachment to him, which caused his death in the circle of our society, to be regarded as a public •calamity. STRICTURES ON THE INJUDICIOUS CONDUCT OF THE BRITISH COMMANDERS IN THE SOUTHERN STATES. The injudicious conduct of the British commanders subsequent to the capture of Charleston, has been the subject of pointed animadversion, even by their own historians. Had the politic and generous Carlton been the victor, and possessed tlie power of directing the measures of government, instead of the austere and unbending ConvwaUis, the difficulties to America in establishing her Independence, would have been in- creased beyond calculation. I have frequently heard General Wayne declare, that while he commanded a division of the army on the retreat from Quebec, that the evil he most dreaded, was the arrival in his camp, of men who had been prisoners with the enemy. Since these, after having experienced the most kind treatment, furnished with comfortable clothing, and dismissed by the Comman- der in Chief, without the imposition of any conditions for the regulation of their future conduct, never failed so gratefully to acknowledge his forbearance and ge- nerosity, that rapid desertion was the immediate con- sequence. STRICTURES ON THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 247 The severity exercised by General Howe towards American prisoners, being the topic of conversation among some officers, who had been taken in Canada by Sir Guy Carlton, General Parsons, who was pre- sent, exclaimed, " His inhumanity delights me." — " Why, so ?" (was the immediate inquiry) " You, gentlemen," said Parsons, " have been kindly treated by a generous enemy. Say, would you be inclined to fight against him ?" The answer was, " No ! not if it was possible to avoid it." " Such," added Parsons, " would have been the reply of the troops taken by Howe, had he treated them with kindness ; but, now we are confident that his barbarity will raise us another army." Gates too, according to Gordon, had been repeat- edly heard to say, *' Had General Howe treated his prisoners and the inhabitants of Jersey, when subdued, with as much humanity and kindness as Sir Guy Carlton exercises towards his prisoners, it would have proved fatal to the Americans,* * I had fondly hoped, when speaking thus favourably of the character of Sir Gut Carlton, that I had attributed to him no other virtues than such as he had an indisputable right to claim. That /^o/icy had been the leading principle in his conduct towards the Americans who fell into his power, and became his prisoners, I could not doubt ; but seduced by the appearance of his generous sympathy in their misfortunes, I had constantly indulged the belief, that motives of a more noble and generous nature were not without their influence ; and that, although his duty to his Sovereign compelled him to act with energy to accomplish the subjugation of the revolted Colonists, yet, that a clear perception of the justice ©f the cause in which they had engaged, and generous admiration of the ardour with which they contended for their liberties, had led him to temper his triumphs with compassion, and to mitigate the sufferings of an enemy whose motives he venerated, though he could not openly approve them. Glad to find an oppor- tunity of bestowing praise, I eagerly embraced it, having no regret, but that with the fairest field for the exercise of benevolence, our enemies had so little profited by it — so rarely availed themselves of their ability to show, that, though resolute to subdue, they had not forgotten to be merciful. I am sorry to say, tliat circumstances imperiously compel me to acknowledge the precipitancy of ray judgment. An extract of a letter received from a gentleman of the hightest respectability, a man incapable of fostering an unjust prejudice, and 248 STRICTURES ON What might have been the consequence, if equal wisdom had swayed the British commander in South- Carolina, it appals me to think of. Fatigued by the toils of war, dispirited by reiterated disasters, the prospect of success but glimmering at a distance, and by many altogether despaired of, had the newly sub- mitting inhabitants been suffered to enjoy the sweets of repose, and benefits of the security guaranteed by capitulation — had kindness been substituted for op- pression, and persuasion used in lieu of force, although I have no doubt but that Independence would ulti- mately have been gained, yet it must have been, at a more remote period, and by far greater sacrifices, both of treasure and blood. But, they felt all the debasing influences of despotic power ; and deluded by the fallacious hope, that victory had crushed the spirit of opposition, that every spark of Liberty had expired, and that, however burdensome the yoke, the people were sufticiently humbled to bear it, no restraint was whoso liberality of sentiment would never permit to sanction a calumny, is to this effect : " 1 wish to warn you against holding up Lord Dorchester (Sir Guy Carl- ton) as a British worthy. His conduct can be so clearly developed, by all who lived at the days of his exhibitions of his opposite characters, that your history will gain no credit by your propensity for impartiality, no doubt sincere. " His conduct at Quebec was hypocritical and Machiavelian. It was dictated by the motive of seduction. He thought he could dazzle the wavering by an apparent generosity and benevolence towards our unfortunate prisoners. The blaze was but temporary, for every one of intelligence saw through its phos- phoric radiance. I heard no exclamation from those who were not misled by false lights: but *' temco Daiiaos, et dona ferenies." I was in Congress, at Princeton, when he threw off the mask, being the Commander in Chief at New- York, after the preliminary treaty of peace, and left to cap the climax of British hauteur and illiberality. Every arrangement required by the treaty, or the amity of a liberal and gentlemanly mind, he violated. 1 could give you a number of facts in proof: one only is sufficient. His letters and correspondence of every kind, were so insulting, haughty, impolitic, and insufferable, that by a resolution of Congress, to w^hich I gave my assent, and heartily promoted, our Secretary was directed to send back his letters unopened, and inform him that no further correspondence would be held with him. His littleness, and bitter malignity was shown in every step he took." THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 249 imposed on aggression, and exactions insisted on, too grievous for endurance. Thus, with consciences ready to acquit them of every obligation, that it ap- peared inconvenient to keep, without the slightest consideration paid to the opinions of the parties the most interested, paroles, which had been granted by ca})itulation, were withdrawn,* and menaces held out — " That all who were found in arms, opposing the Royal authority, should not only be deprived of pro- perty, but subject to corporal punishment ;" and fur- ther declared — ** That as it was evident that resist- ance must prove nugatory, every hope of essential aid being lost, it was expected, that all who could bear arms, should assume them in support of the established government^ A more tyrannical measure could not have been conceived of, nor one adopted, more des- tructive to the prospects and true interests of Brita' Anxious, as I have stated, to remain in peace a' retirement, little disposition appeared on the i- the inhabitants, to engage again in scenes of hostili.^ but, to be called upon at once to renounce long and fondly cherished opinions — to resist in arms, the very men with whom they had been a little before asso- ciated, endeared too, in many cases, by friendship and consanguinity, and to give their aid in forging the chains, which were to hold their country in perpetual bondage, was an insult, that roused to action every dormant faculty, and nerved every arm for opposition and revenge. " Force us into the field," was the universal cry, " and our choice is made. We will die under the banners of our country !" * Stedman, p. 199, vol. 2, says—" The Proclamation of Sir Henry Clin- ton, without their consent, abrogated the paroles that had been granted, and in one instant, converted the inhabitants either into Loyal subjects or Rebels. Policy required that they should have been altered, rather at their own appli- .'ration, individually; than by the arbitrary fiat of the Commander in Chief' 32 250 STRICTURES ON When Colonel Peter Horry once said to General Marion, *' I am afraid that our happy days are all gone by," he replied, " Do not cherish such idle fears — our happy days are not gone by. Had the enemy wit enough to play a generous game, we should be ruined ; but with them humanity is out of the question. They will treat the people with severity, rouse opposition in every quarter, and send recruits to our standard, till they accomplish their own destruction." COLONEL ISAAC HAYNE. The revocation of these paroles caused the untimely fate of the gallant Colonel Hayne. The motives which induced him to resume his arms, and most interesting particulars relative to his capture and execution, are related by Dr. Ramsay, in his History of the Revolu- tion of South-Carolina, mut:h in detail, but he has omitted to mention some facts which appear to me peculiarly interesting, and worthy of record. Irregularities in the mode of conducting the war, in the highest degree disgraceful to the American cause, had frequently occurred. That these resulted, for the most part, from excessive provocation on the part of the enemy, and lawless excesses encouraged towards the whig inhabitants of the South, cannot be denied, and as acts of retaliation can alone be palliated, even with a shadows of excuse.* No man lamented them *I would not willingly enter into details of the sanguinary warfare, which, at this period, prevailed in the Southern EHvision of the State, but in support of the correctness of the statement I have made, will present two lamentable instances of it. Captain Duharty, a most intrepid soldier, and determined Whig, having, on Provost's invasion, blown up Fort Lyttleton,\\here he com- manded, was hastening with the Beaufort Company of militia by the inland passage, to aid in the defence of Charleston, when, halting on John's Island, his party, by the treachery of an individual, was betrayed, and in a great mea- sure, either destroyed or made prisoners. He himself escaped, and finding Beaufort, on his return to the South, occupied by the British, sought safety in THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 261 with greater sincerity than Colonel Hayne, for none more anxiously wished the American character to be free from reproach. Soon, then, as solicited hy his neighbours, and the inhabitants generally, of the District, to resume a hostile position, to become their leader, and direct their operations against the enemy, he made an honourable and open declaration: " That he could only be induced to comply with their wishes, by obtaining a solemn promise from all who were to serve under him, that an immediate stop should be put to every unnecessary severity; a desi- deratum the more to be insisted upon, as he was resolved that exemplary punishment should be inflicted on every individual who should indulge in pillage, or commit any act of inhumanity against the foe." A copy of the address made to his soldiers on this occa- sion, was found on him at the period of his captivity ; but although it forcibly expressed his abhorrence of concealment Marked as a particular object of vengeance:, from the energy of his character, every exertion was made for his destruction. A Captain Pendabvis was particularly active in pursuit, and having discovered the place of his retreat, surprised, and with circumstances of peculiar cruelty, put him to death, suffering his Lieutenant Patterson, with more than savage barbarity, ere yet the vital spark had expired, to disfigure and mutilate the bkeding corpse. Messrs. Lkacraft and Talbird, the friends of the deceased, who were with him when surprised, escaped and retired into the interior country, but speedily hearing that the standard of opposition was raised by Colonel Har- ding, returned, and were present at the capture of the Fori at Pocotaligo. Dis- appointed in not meeting their sanguinary persecutor among the prisoners, Mr. Leacraft, accompanied by an associate named Bett£RSoj?, set out in search of him^ and finding him on his plantation, in company with his Lieutenant, by a rifle ball which passed directly through his heart, laid him dead as he fled from him, and immediataly sabringthe intimidated Patterson, sacrificed him also to his reveuge. Ai>other and truly distressing occurrence took place in the neighbourhood of Colonel Havne. Mr. John Inglis, a young Scotchman of exemplary conduct and character, was shot during the darkness of the night through mistake — the individual who did the deed bitterly lamenting it as he had been his schoolfellow and companion but a little before at Inveraess ; candidly avowing, that he meant to kill Colonel Thomas Inglis, who had brought him to the foot of the gallows on some trifling occasion, and would but for the interposition of a superior officer, have hanged hlia. 252 STRICTURES ON crime, and was replete with sentiments that did honour to his humanity, it availed not to soften the rigour ot persecution, nor in the slightest degree to mitigate the severity of the punishment denounced against him. When the paper which contained this honourable tes- timony of generous feeling was presented to Major M'Kenzie, who sat as President of the tribunal before which Colonel Hayne was arraigned, he, with great expression of sensibility, requested the prisoner " to retain it till he should be brought before the Court- Martial that was to determine his fate," assuring him, " that the present Court were only directed to inquire, whether or not he acknowledged himself to be the in- dividual who had taken protection." It is unnecessary to add, that this trial was never granted. Lord Raw- don reached the city from the interior country, and at his command an order for immediate execution was issued. Little did the sympathy that melted every heart to tenderness — little did the pathetic address of the lovely daughters of the soil, calculated to move even th(^ bosom of obduracy, avail. Heedless of the prayers and solicitations of his afflicted friends and relatives, deaf to the cries of his children, who even with bended knees interceded for mercy, insensible to the dictates of humanity, his resolution was fixed as adamant, and a hero was sacrificed. A gentleman of veracity, who on this occasion vainly flattered himself that an execution was not seriously to be apprehended, from which no present good nor future advantage could possibly arise, has often de- clared that the Secretary, Harry Barry, assured him, " that his cherished expectations would be disappoint- ed, for that the opinions of Lord Rawdon were immu- table ; and that since his fiat had been death, execu- tion would inevitably follow. « Yet this man has become a God '.• THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 253 And because the pusillanimity of the Duke of Rich- mond occasioned him to shrink from an accusation, which, having made, he was called upon by every principle of justice and manly virtue to support, he is deemed a hero, and without the slightest imputation of criminality, regarded as free from every reproach.^ 1 would mention, that immediately previous to the commencement of the Revolutionary War, this noble- man was in Italy, and in habits of intimacy with a gentleman of our country,t who was afterwards sent by Congress to the Court of Tuscany, then governed by a branch of the House of Austria, the better to con- ciliate the good will of the Emperor of Germany towards America. The language of Lord Rawdon was, at that i)eriod, altogether favourable to the cause of Liberty. He approved our resistance, and cordially wished us success. How little his subsequent conduct corresponded with his declarations, and conformed to these sentiments, it is scarcely necessary to state. While the hope of conquest remained to Britain, no man was more indefatigable in his efforts to achieve its accomplishment; and as a soldier, he justly acquired a very high degree of rei)utation. Yet how lost must we consider him to every sense of the duty which he owed to his king and to his country, when it is remembered, ** The Duke of Richmond called the attention of the House of Lords, to the inhuman execution of Colonel Hayne, the particulars of which had been for- warded to him by Mr, John Bowman. Lord Rawdon, arriving in Europe, denied the charge, threatening to call on the Duke for personal satisfaction, unless an immediate apology should remove the stain from his injured honour. The Duke knew full well the justice of the charge. He was personally ac- quainted with Mr. BowMAS, had often sought information from him relative to American aflfairs, and had never any cause to question his veracity) but his courage at the moment must have been at a low ebb. He hesitated indeed on the inconsistency of his conduct ; but ultimately averred, " That he had re- ceived his information from one Boxoman, whom he knew nothing about. He was, he confessed, rash in his charge, and solicited pardon for having made it." \ RaI-PH IzarP: Sen. Esq. 2S4 STRICTURES ON » that he retired from command at the very period that his services were most required to contend against the increasing difficulties of the station, leaving the conduct of the army to men miserably deficient in talent, and altogether unequal in energy to meet the exigencies of the times. And why was this done? Not on the plea of health, which he would willingly have insinuated, by a fruitless effort made to procure from a physician of distinguished talent, a certificate of his inability to continue in the field ; but, from a clear perception of the events which the current of success in the affairs of America, directed by General Greene, was spe»"dily to produce, and a tender, irresistible solicitude, Platonic we must suppose, from the great purity of his charac- ter, to give to the wife of his truly civil and courteous friend protection across the Atlantic* It will be recollected, that on his passage to Europe, Lord Rawdon was captured by the French fleet, has- tening to the Chesapeake, and on board of one of their vessels sent to France. At Paris he again rnet with a part of the family with which he had once been inti- mate in Italy, and hearing in every society t!je severity exercised towards Colonel Hayne reprobated, as equally impolitic and unjust, unblushingly insinuated, *' that contrary to his opinion, it had been urged, and insisted upon by the Commandant of Charleston." But can this calumny be believed ? Can an accusation Lord Rawdon applied, but in vain, to Dr. Alexander Garden, a Physician ©f high reputation, for a certificate, testifying his inability to continue in the field. This statement is made on the authority of Mr. James Penman, a Bri- tish subject of great respectability, who further assured the author of these Memoirs, that the anger of Dr. Garden was so highly excited by the scan- dalous dereliction of duty by Lord Rawdon, that on the manifestation of a design by many tories, to pay him the compliment of a farewell address, he boldly protested against it; declaring, that if they would draw up a remon- strance, reprobating his determination to quit the army at a moment that he knew that there was not, in the Southern service, a man qualified to command it, hix name should be the first inserted. THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 255 so improbable be tolerated ? Charged as Colonel Balfour has been with severity, he has never been considered as thirsting for blood ! No execution had disgraced his administration in Charleston. At Cam- den, where Lord Rawdon commanded, they w^re too frequent to excite surprise. Had Colonel Balfour wished the death of his prisoner, would he not, in the first instance, have commanded it ? He had the power to do so. The imperious orders of Lord Cornwallis would have sanctioned the act, and at his nod the victim must have suffered. Yet he remained for several weeks uninjured; strictly guarded, it is certain, but with due attention to his rank and to his sufferings; but Lord Rawdon arrived, and the influences of Heaven-born mercy were extinguished. Colonel Hayne, as the object of his deadly hate, was con- demned, and suffered with the patience and fortitude of a martyr,* while from his tomb a flarpe arose, which widely diffused, gave constant increase to the spirit of revolt, till the expulsion of the enemy caused justice to triumph, and confirmed the Independency of the Union. Such a man was Lord Rawdon. Can it, then, be attributed to prejudice or malignity that I deny his right to the honours heaped upon him, and exhibiting * Colonel Lee gives the following affecting narrative of the last scene of his life : — " Accompanied by a few friends, he marched with unruffled serenity through a weeping crowd, to the place of execution. The sight of the gibbet occas'onpd a momentary expression of agony and dismay. He paused — but immedi utely recovering his wonted firmness, moved forward. At this instant, a friend whispered his confidence, that he would exhibit an example of the- firmness with which an American could die. " I will endeavour to do so," was the reply of the modest Martyr. Never was intention better fulfilled. — Neither arrogatinr superiority, nor betraying weakness, he ascended the cart unsupported anTRICTURES ON victory, and eag;er in pursuit, my arm was too well employed to allow much time for observation ; but, overtaking the wagon of De Kalb, on which was seated a Monkey, fantastically dressed, I ceased to destroy, and addressing the affrighted animal, exclaim- ed, ' You, Monsieur, I perceive, are a Frenchman and a gentleman.' Je vous donne la parole,'^'* " Where were thy terrors, conscience ? where thy justice ? <« That this bad man dare boldly own his crimes, " Insult thy sacred power, and glory in it.'* Francis. It cannot be easily conceived, from what unpromis- ing soil Hope will spring up in the bosoms of the unhappy. From such delusion originated the fatal propensity to temporize with the enemy, and to seek protection. Its victims paid the penalty of their rash- ness, and were speedily convinced, that they had gained but little by the change. Indulgence, however, was occasionally granted to their wishes, while towards the inflexible in principle, a rigid austerity and an unde- viating system of oppression was maintained, that has not its parallel in history. In the rejection of requests the most reasonable, a littleness and unmanly spirit of revenge was exhibited, that cannot be reprobated with sufficient severity. Pre-eminent in malignity stood the Engineer Mon- crief. The instances of oppression issuing from his implacable resentment would fill a volume. I shall confine myself to one Anecdote, to show how little he knew, justly to appreciate the dignified inflexibility of a patriotic heart. A lady of the highest respectability,^ solicited, as a favour, that he would not suffer certain Oak Trees of remarkable beauty, on a farm which he occupied, to be destroyed, as they were highly valued by her son, *Mrs. PiNCKNBT, mother of General C. C. Pinckney. THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 269 having been planted by his father's hand. " And where is your son, Madam ?" said Colonel Moncrief. " At HaddrelFs, Sir — a prisoner." *' And he wishes me, Madam, to have these trees preserved ?" " Yes, Sir, if possible." '' Then, tell him, Madam, that they will make excellent fire- wood, and he may depend upon it they shall be burnt." Colonel Moncrief was no jester — the promptitude of his actions left no room for suspense. An opportunity was offered to injure and to insult, and he did not fail to embrace it. The trees were burnt. A lady of the highest respectability, writing to Colo- nel Tarleton, requesting the liberty of using one or two apartments in her house, immediately occupied by him, as they would essentially contribute to her com- fort, he concisely replied, *' Madam, after mature deliberation, my eyt^s are so opened, and senses con- vinced, that the enemies of my country should not enjoy every convenience, that I hold it an act of pro- priety to retain the house in Broad-street, given me by the Commander in Chief for my sole accommodation. B. Tarleton." Wh^n Provost invaded Carolina, a considerable British force occupied the house and plantation of Mr. Robert Gibbes, on the Stono River. At the period of their arrival there, Mr. John Gibbes, a respectable gentleman, worn down by age and infirmity, was on a visit to his brother. His usual residence was on a farm called the Grove, where the Race Ground is now established, comprehending several of the neighbouring gentlemen's seats, and at the period improved not only with ta^e in the disposition of the grounds, but by the introduction of numberless exotics of the highest beauty. He had in addition, a green-house and pinery, in the best condition. A Major Sheridan, arriving from the army on the Neck, at Mr. Gibbes, was asked by an officer, in the presence of the brothers, — " What 270 STRICTURES OxN news ? shall we gain possession of the city ?" " I fear not," replied Sheridan, "but we have made glorious havoc of the property in the vicinity. I yesterday wit- nessed the destruction of an elegant establishment belonging to an arch Rebel, who luckily for himself was absent. You would have been delighted to see how quickly the pine apples were shared among our men, and how rapidly his trees and ornamental shrubs were levelled with the dust." Mr. John Gibbes, who was a man of strong passions, could hear no more, and regardless of consequences, with indignation, exclaim- ed, " I hope that the Almighty will cause the arm of the scoundrel who struck the first blow to wither to his shoulder." " How is this. Sir," said Sheridan. " Dare you, Sir, use such language to me." " Yes," said Mr. Gibbes, " and would repeat it at the Altar." *' The provocation," said the commanding officer pre- sent, "sufficiently justifies the anger of Mr. Gibbes; for your own credit, Sheridan, let the matter drop." The catastrophe w^as dreadful. To banish thought, Mr. Gibbes, unhappily driven to the indulgence of an intemperance before unknown, retired to his bed — and rose no more. A certain day being appointed, after which none but protection-men were allowed to exercise either trade or profession. A poor mechanic, the cries of whose family for bread were irresistible, humbly solicited that a protection might be allowed him, though the hour of demanding it had gone by. " God knows," he added, " that my intention was to have asked it, had it not escaped my memory." " Retire, Sir," said Harry Barry, " you had ample time given you for repentance, and you refused to embrace it. You caH God to wit- ness your intention. Jesus Christ thought it no dis- grace to receive a certificate from the hands of John the Baptist, of his faith in the utility of baptism to salvation. You should not have felt ashamed to THE BRITISH OFFICERS. 271 receive from the hands of Nesbit Balfour, a certificate that would do away the remembrance of your political sins, and renovate your faith in the talents and virtues of your neglected master George 3d." Thus, allusions to ceremonies the most sacred, were treated with levity, and a trifling neglect, probably arising from ibrgetful- ness, magnified into an unpardonable crime. But respect to the name of the Saviour could scarcely be expected where it was denied to worship him. The sanctity of the Temple could not protect its Altars. The Church in Prince William's was wantonly burnt, and for no other reason, as the incendiaries asserted, than that it added greatly to the beauty of the scenery about Sheldon, the seat of General Bull. The Churches also, in St. Bartholomew's and St. Paul's were re- duced to ashes. The Bible and books of prayer, pre- sented by Mrs. Jacob Motte, taken from the Church of St. James', Santee, were purchased in London, after the peace, by a member of the Church, and restored as a sacred gift, according to the intention of the original donor. But as a further proof that no species of tyranny was left unessayed, that could force the unfortunate to profess sentiments abhorrent to their hearts, a more forcible and appropriate instance cannot be given, than in the case of Mr. Seabourn Jones, of Georgia. Tliis gentleman had relinquished his country, friends, and home to oppose the enemy, from whom he neither ex- pected, nor would willingly have received favour. But being a prisoner, and dciiied the privilege of procuring bread, he was compelled to solicit it. The reply was laconic : ** Take protection, and gain your bread. Ad- here to the standard of Rebellion, and starve." His heart forbade the one ; the other would necessarily have followed, had not the happy negotiation of Major Hyrne succeeded, and restored him to liberty and his country. DISTINGUISHED BKITISH OFFICERS. LORD CORNWALLIS. The Bard, who best knew the human heart, has said, " Sweet are the uses oT adversity." In the instance of Lord Cornwallis, I am ready to subscribe to his opinion ; for, from the moment that the sun of his glory set at York-Town, and from the ex- alted station of a conqueror, whose prowess was long esteemed irresistible, he became himself a captive, he appeared as much distinguished by gentleness and amiability, by justice and generosity, as he had been previously characterized, by an unbending haughtiness of demeanor, and a severity that neither the powerful solicitations of the oppressed, rendered eloquent by their sufferings, nor the imperious calls of mercy and humanity could ever subject to control. Had the same dispositions swayed his actions in America, that influenced his conduct while in command in Ireland and in India, I might have represented him, although a decided, still a generous enemy — active and inde- fatigable in his exertions to obtain victory — considerate and humane in the use he made of it ; but, grateful as the duty would have been to me, it is denied me to perform it. I cannot compliment at the expense of truth, and must si)eak of the acts of aggression which were heaped by him upon my bleeding country, as those acts deserve. .CORNWALLIS. 273 I have never read of any distinguished military cha- rarter, either in ancient or modern times, let the pre- dominancy of vicious propensities be ever so conspi- cuous, tiiat had not some trait of merit, some emanation of noble and generous feeling to recommend it. Take from Lord Cornwallis, as commander of the British army in the Southern States, the lustre of dauntless intrepidity, patient in su[)porting difficulties, indefati- gable in surmounting them, and, where, in contem- plating his character, shall a claim to any perfection be found, that could entitle him to praise or admiration. When the power to show mercy is unlimited, its exercise cannot be withheld without guilt. The sen- timent was in no manner congenial to the heart of Lord Cornwallis. Forced, for the preservation of their families, to solicit British protection, he, by an increase of severity and unlooked for exactions, compels his converts to fly to the hostile camps for security ; and then, in a letter dated August 18th, 1780, thus addresses Colonel Cruger, the commandant at Ninety- Six :" — " I have given orders, that all the inhabitants of this Province who had submitted, and who have taken part in its revolt, shall be punished with the great- est rigour — that they should be imprisoned, and their whole proj)erty taken from them or destroyed. 1 have ordered in the most positive manner, that every militia- man, who had borne arms with us, and afterwards joined the enemy, should be immediately hanged ; and have now, Sir, only to desire, that you will take the most vigorous measures to extinguish the rebellion, and that you will obey, in the strictest manner, the directions given in this letter." Had he exhibited a spark of humanity, had he soothed the afflictions of the wretched, softened the pains of captivity, or with generous compassion as^ ^ vide Ramsay'!? Revolution of South-Cafolina. vol. 2.p 157. 35 274 CORNWALLIS. suaged the agonies of the wounded spirit ; some grate- ful heart that had been cheered by his sijiile, and rescued from despondency — some parent, thankful for a child preserved, or wife, whose tears had saved the partner of her affections from unmerited persecution, would have proclaimed the deed, and blessed his me- mory. But, in vain do we seek such testimony of his worth. One universal sentiment towards him is che- rished in every bosom, " He but enjoyed power to abuse it." That I may not be supposed to speak at random, or give indulgence to prejudices that are without a foun- dation to support them, I will give his character as thrice presented to the public view. The flagrant violation of the capitulation of Charles- ton, in innumerable instances, being considered a suf][i- cient reason to deprive Lord Cornwallis of the benefits of that which was granted to him at the surrender of York-Town, it was moved in Congress by the Ho- nourable Arthur Middleton, a Delegate from the State of South-Carolina,* that — " In order to prevent future controversy on the subject of an exchange, Con- gress, who represent the feelings, as well as the sense of the nation, do declare, that Lieutenant General Charles Earl Cornwallis ought not to be exchanged by composition, not from any apprehensions of his influ- ence, or superior abilities, but because they look upon him, not in the light of a British General, but a bar- barian. In proof of their justice in classing him in so degrading a predicament, they appeal to the impartial history of his conduct, during his command in the Southern and Middle States, where his progress may be traced by blood wantonly spilt, by executions un- warranted even by military regulations, and by the indiscriminate plunder of property, and destruction of * Vide Ramsay's Revolution of South-CaroIiQa, p. 330. CORNWALLIS. 275 the habitations of the widow and orphan ; circum- stances dis^racpful to the arms of any enlightened peo|)Ie — because he has governed himself solely upon principles of eastern tyranny — has broken the faith of treaty, solemnly pledged in the capitulation of Charles- ton, by ordering the seizure of the property and per- sons of the capitulants, by the confinement of some on board of prison ships, and transportation of others to St. Augustine, and the banishment of their wives and children — because he has authorized and countenanced the enlistment of upwards of five hundred American Soldiers into the British service, or rather suffered them to be compelled, by cruelties and hard usage, to take arms against their country ; and in numberless other instances, has infringed every rule of war esta- blished among civilized nations." On the anniversary of his capture, the I9th of October, 1814, in an address to the youth of the Cin- cinnati Society, he is thus noticed : " Gentlemen of the Cincinnati. " The anniversary of the eventful day which we celebrate, fills the heart of every American with pride and gratitude. We recol- lect, with exultation, the valour which broke the sceptre of oppres- sion, and bow with thankfulness before the beneficent Providence, whose protection secured to us the blessings of Peace, Liberty, and Independence. On this day the cloud of misfortune obscured the brilliant achievements of our most active and implacable enemy. The visionary confidence that his genius was unequalled, vanished. The rapid current of his successes rose no longer superior to oppo- sition — his triumphs ceased — Cornwallis fell. He was, indeed, a hero in arms, but dead to the gentler feelings of humanity ; a stran- ger to that moderation and forbearance which gives to victory its highest attraction. The establishment of the nefarious instruments of oppression, the Boards of Police and Sequestration, too fatally prove the justice of my assertion ; while the sanctioned and applaud- ed barbarities of the sanguinary Tarleto^, indisputably evince, 276 CORNWALLIS. that " Mercy, the first attribute of Heaven/' had no place in his heart."* This is no exaggerated picture. I would not unnecessarily excite indignation. My only wish is, to present your enemy, such as he was at the period, when the subjugation of America was the cherished aim of Britain, that you may anticipate what you may now expect, when he approaches our coasts, not to conciliate, but destroy." In the life of General Marion, compiled from the notes of a distinguished Partisan, Colonel Peter Horry, we find this passage — " It has been said, that Lord Cornvvallis, struck with the bravery of De Kalb, gene- rously su})erintended while his wounds were dressed by his own Surgeon, and that, after his death, he or- dered him to be buried with the honours of war. — British officers have often been known to do such noble deeds ; but, that Lord Cornwallis was capable of acting so honourably, is very doubtfuV^f If we seek the opinions of the British writers, rela- tive to his conduct, Tarleton accuses him of injustice^ M'Kenzie of partiality and 7msrepresentation, Sted- man of impolicy and unnecessary severity. If they wiio partook of his triumphs, and rejoiced at his suc- cesses, thus openly censure, how can we withhold the exi)ression of our resentments, subjected by him to every misery and degradation that relentless tyranny could impose. * No censure, no expression of dissatisfaction was ever useJl to check the wanton barbarities of Tarleton. On the contrary, in a letter dated Novem- ber 11th, 1780, Lord Cornwallis says to him, " I wish you could get three Legions, and divide yourself into three parts. We can do nothing without you." ■1 Vide Weeras' Life of Marion. CAMPBELL. 277 LIEUT. COL. ARCHIBALD CAMPBELL, 71st REGIMENT. Quitting a character so justly reprobated as that of Cornvvallis, it is truly grateful to present, by way of contrast, that of Lieutenant Colonel Campbell, of the 71st British Regiment. A conqueror at Savannah, his immediate care was to soften the asperities of war, and to reconcile to his equitable government, those who had submitted, in the first instance, to the supe- riority of his arms. Though but lately released from close and rigorous confinement, w|iich he had suffered in consequence of indignities offered to General Charles Lee, a prisoner at New- York, he harboured no resentments, and appeared to consider his sufferings rather the effect of necessity, than wilful persecution. Oppression was foreign to his nature, and incompatible with his [)ractice. He made a proper allowance for an attachment to cherished principles, nor withheld his applause from those who bravely supported them. He used no threats to gain proselytes, no artifice to ensnare them. vSuch of the inhabitants as voluntarily made a tender of service, were favourably received ; but he was ever disinclined to invite them to take up arms in the British cause, lest in the fluctuating coun- cils of his government, he should lead them to destruc- tion. He had too frequently seen them lavish of pro- fessions of permanent support, leaving their deluded adherents to the mercy of the government, which, in evil hour, they had abandoned. The friends of our Indei)endence had every thing to dread from his wis- dom and humanity, but their alarm was of short dura- tion. Lieutenant Colonel Campbell had too nice a sense of honour to be made the instrument of injustice and oppression, and he was speedily called on to relin- 278 CAMPBELL. quish his command, to a superior, less scrupulous, and better disposed to second the harsh measures of the Commander in Chief. LORD RAWDON. I HAVE already, in detailing particulars relative to the murder of Colonel Hayne, said so much of Lord Rawdon, that it may appear superfluous to bring for- ward further proof of that unrelenting severity, that appears never to have been satisfied but by the sacrifice of its object. Executions under his mandate had become so frequent in Camden, that they were regarded with mute astonishment. If words found utterance, the inquiry was, not " i^i^o," but " how many, are to be hanged to-day." Of his humanity towards his own troops, and particulaaly his oivn countrymen^ an accu- rate judgment may be formed from the extracts of his letter to Colonel Rugely, which I have selected, and which will immediately follow. But before they are brought into view, I would observe, that at the moment this letter was written, poor Ireland,'^ the most op- * The Irish nation were, in sentiment, altogether favourable to the cause of America. In the year 1775, when I was removed from Westminster School to College, I remember, that in a debating Society at Edinburgh, it was proposed as a subject for discussion, " Whether it was just, wise, or practicable, for America to resist the decrees of Great Britain," a Speaker, who appeared extremely tenacious of the authority and power of the parent state, vehe- mently maintaining, that it was not only impolitic, but impossible for America, yet in her infancy, to support the contest with the slightest prospect of success. Dr. Drennan, a youthful Irish student, exclaimed, " I readily admit a part of the gentleman's proposition, but deny the accuracy of the conclusion drawn from it. His assertion relative to the infancy of America is undeniable ; but it may well be compared to the infancy of Hercules — since secure in her cra- dle, she sees the approach of hostili*y without terror, and will not fail to crush the vipers sent for her destruction, by an unnatural step mother." KAWDON. 279 pressed nation in the civilized world, began not only more keenly to feel the injustice of Britain, but more openly to express her abhorrence of the tyranny im- posed upon her. America offered an asylum against the evils she endured. Nor was it disregarded by iier gallant sons. Many adventurous youths, till the mo- ment should arrive when a struggle for freedom could be made at home, inspired by the most exalted feelings of the heart, sought our shores to enrol themselves under the standard of Liberty ; and in supporting our cause, none were more distinguished. In the North, the gallant Montgojnery , the Generals Irvine, Arm- strong, Moylan, and Walter Steward, obtained the highest reputation for zeal and intrepidity. In the South, the valour of Armstrong, O^Neale, Manning, and Irvine of the Legion, merited, and were rewarded by universal admiration and applause. In the ranks of our armies there were many of the sons of Erin, who felt the injuries heaped upon us, as injuries to them- selves, and fought for America as they would have fought for Ireland. It was to check this noble spirit, to extinguish the dawn of resistance in their expanding views of the rights of man, that Lord Rawdon issued his sanguinary orders. They might have produced sorne effect; but they plainly showed, that in his troops, generally, he had no confidence ; and that with his own Regiment, the Volunteers of Ireland, the language of the lips had no correspondence with the emotions of the bosom ; and that on rejoicing days, while peals were fired, and the air resounded with loud huzzas for the king, their hearts w^ere with the cause and the armies of America. 280 RAWDOiN. EXTRACT OF A LETTER TO COLONEL RUGELY, COMMANDING THE '^ If attachment to their Sovereign will not move the country people (o check a crime so disastrous to the service (desertion) it must be my care to urge them to their duty, as good subjects, by using inva- riable severity against every one who shall show so criminal a neglect of the public interest. If any person shall meet a soldier, straggling without a written pass, beyond the picquets, and shall not do his utmost to secure him, or shall not spread an alarm for that purpose, or if any person shall give shelter to soldiers straggling as above mentioned, or shall serve them as a guide, or shall furnish them with passes, or any other assistance, the persons so offending may assure themselves of rigorous punishment, or by whipping, impi^isonment, or by being sent to serve in the West Indies, according as I shall think the degree of criminality may require ; for I have ordered that every soldier who passes the picquet, shall submit himself to be examined by any miUtiaman who has a suspicion of him. If a soldier, therefore, attempts to escape when ordered by a militiaman to stop, he is immediately to be fired on as a deserter.'' And then, as a mark of peculiar distinction, he adds, *"' I will give ten guineas /or the head of any deserter belonging to the Volunteers of Ireland, and Jive guineas only, if he be brought aliveJ^ GENERAL WEBSTER, Among the British officers serving in the South, there was certainly no one who possessed so just a claim to celebrity as General Webster. To consum- mate skill and intrepidity, and a devotion to the cause of the Monarch whom he served and loved, (a trait of character which gained him the highest applause of his ■ Vide Ramsay's Revolution of South-Carolina, vol. 2. p. 133: WEBSTER. 281 own army) he united a generous forbearance and humanity towards such of his enemies as fell within the influence of his power, as secured their gratitude and most exalted admiration. Tarleton, in his history of the Southern Campaigns, thus briefly, though com- prehensively, notices his merits. " He united all the virtues of civil life, to the gallantry and professional knowledge of a soldier." And Lee, under the im- pression of sentiments that do him honour, speaking of his untimely fate, says, — " So long as the tenderest feelings of sorrow, expressed in language that can only flow from the heart, shall be admired. Lord Cornwallis, in his letter to the afl^icted and affectionate parent of the departed hero, has left an imperishable monument to his fame." An extract of this letter cannot be unacceptable to the heart that feels. " It gives me great concern to undertake a task which is not only a bitter renewal of ray own grief, but must be a violent shock to an aflfectionate parent. You have for your support the assistance of religion, good sense, and the experience of the uncertainty of human happiness. You have for your satisfaction, that your son fell nobly in the cause of his country, honoured and lamented by all his fellow soldiers ; that he led a life of honour and virtue, which must secure to him everlasting happiness. ^' When the keen sensibilities of the passions begin to subside, these considerations will give you real comfort. That the Almighty may give you fortitude to bear this severest of strokes, is the earnest. wish of your companion in affliction. " Cornwallis." He further enumerates his services throughout the #ar, proving hiai at all times, and in every situation, where an opportunity was offered to display his talents or his virtues, a distinguished commander and exem- plary man. I have but little to add ; but what I have to say is so much to his credit, that it would b6 unpardonable to 282 WEBSTER. withhold it. Encamped, daring the siege of Charles- ton, at Brabant's, the seat of the late Bishop Smith, where many of the Whig Ladies, whose friends were serving within the garrison, had retired for security, his attentions to them were uniformly polite and generous; he was liberal in the offer of service, and afforded them security and protection from the insults and op- pression to which unlimited license was allowed in almost every other quarter. And it is highly to his honour, that while in mere wantonness the Temples of God were elsewhere either levelled to the dust, or given up to devouring flames, that he caused a Church in the neighbourhood, the destruction of which had already commenced, to be rebuilt, and guarded by the very men whose aim was to render it a mass of ruins. COLOiNEL SMALL. It would be superfluous to detail particular instan- ces of the exemplary good conduct of this gallant soldier, whose constant aim was to soothe the sorrows of the afflicted, and to give exercise to the beneficence of a generous heart. There was no measure adopted by the British autho- rities, that appeared more irksome and oppressive, than that of billeting their officers upon the unfortunates, to whom, under the capitulation of Charleston, was guaranteed the uninterrupted possession of their pro- perty. Yet, such was the known character of Colonel Small, that a billet presented by him was regarded as a distinguished mark of favour ; security from insult, and from every species of imposition, being insepa- rable from his presence. What must have been the delightful sensaticftis of his heart, who, idolized by his SMALL. 28S Qwn troops, saw himself, at the same time, courted as a friend, and reverenced as a protector, by the helpless families of the enemy, with whom he contended ? The sympathies of his benevolence shielded them from harm, and was repaid with tenfold gratitude. He assuaged their sufferings and relieved their wants ; and every prayer which they offered to Heaven, was min- gled with ardent solicitations for blessings on his head. Towards the conclusion of the war. Colonel Small expressing a wish to meet with General St. Clair of the Am'erican army, the friend and companion of his early years, a flag of truce was immediately sent by General Greene, with an invitation to come within our lines, and remain at his option therein, free from every restriction. It was accepted, and such attentions were paid to him, not only by the Commander in Chief, but by all the superior officers of the army, as must have been highly grateful to him, since it not only evinced their gratitude, but exalted opinion also of the liberal and generous conduct that excited it. Paying a visit to our Ambassador, Major Thomas Pinckney, shortly after his establishment in London, it was my good fortune to meet with Colonel Small, who, in the course of conversation, said, *' I have been sitting this morning to Colonel Trumbull for my por- trait, he having done me the honour to place me in a very conspicuous sitiuation in his admirable represen- tation of the battle of Bunker's Hill. But his polite- ness far exceeds my claim to merit. He has exhibited me as turning aside the bayonet aimed by a grenadier at the breast of General Warren. I would certainly have saved his life, had it been in my power to do so, but when I reached the spot on which his body lay, the spark of life was already extinguished. It would have been a tribute due to his virtues and to his gal- lantry, and to me a sacred duty, since I am well apprized, that when at a particular period of the 284 SMALL. action, I was left alone, and exposed to the fire of the whole American line, my old friend, Putnam, saved my life by calling aloud, * kill as many as you can, but spare Small ;' and that he actually turned aside muskets that were aimed for my destruction." When the attack was made some years since on the military reputation of General Putnam, I communi- cated these circumstances to my friend, Major Jackson, of Phil^idelphia, who published them as a proof of its illiberal !ty, since it is not possible to suppose that the soldier, who with such anxious solicitude endeavoured to screen from harm the life of a generous enemy, could, from apprehension of his own personal safety, in the manner insinuated, have swerved from his duty, and must have fixed a stigma on the reputation of the Commander in Chief, for the want of that discernment universally attributed to him, that he continued to the last hour of the war to bestow his entire confidence on one, who in the very dawn of hostility had proved himself unworthy of it. COLONEL TARLETON. With every disposition to moderation and forbear- ance, it is difficlt to speak with temper of a man, whose invariable aim was to destroy, and whose re- sentments were only to be appeased by an unceasing effusion of blood. Acting in strict conformity with his declared opinion,'^^ — " That severity alone could effect the establishment of regal authority in America," the bounds of humanity were overleapt. The des- truction of property scarcely merited notice, where the goadings of personal insult were so ardently che- * Ramsay, vol. 2, p. 156. TARLETON. 285 rished, and death made the primary object of enter- prisp. It is no. exa2;geration to say, that wheresoever the influences of Tarleton extended, with scarcely an exce|)tion, his progress might be traced by merciless severity. Contemplate the destruction, the desolation of the plantation of Colonel Hill, in the New Acqui- sition, his flourishing iron works, mills, dwelling house, buildings of every description, exhibiting a frightful scene of universal ruin. His wife and children sub- jected to the inclemency of an insalubrious climate, without shelter, food, or raiment. See the wanton exercise of his authority, hanging, on the most trivial pretexts, men of the first respectability, exemplified in the execution of Mr. Johnston, an upright and intelli- gent Magistrate.! Witness the slaughter of the unre- sisting force of Colonel Buford,t crying out for quarter; and finally view him. after partaking of the hospitality of the widow of General Richardson, not only plun- dering her proi)erty, and burning her house, but degrading manhood, by spurning with his foot this helpless female, even on the verge of the grave of her husband, who, in palliation of his enormities, he pre- tended to believe still in arms. Great, but certainly unmerited credit has been given to Tarleton, for the achievement of deeds of hardy enterprise. Where celerity of movement was neces- sary to secure victory, he is clearly entitled to unqua- lified praise. In reaping all the fruits resulting from an attack by surprise, he was judicious in his arrange- ments, and prompt in their execution. But, where can it be said that he ever encountered opposition that * Ramsay, vol. 2, p. 159. I p. 160. X An officer of our army, whose accuracy it is impossible for me to doubt, assured me that he visited the Hospital at the VVaxsaws, in which the wounded were left, that many of them were in a state of perfect nakedness, having been stripped of every article of clothing, and that the wounds inflictcdi amounted on an average to sixteen to each individual. 286 TARLETON. he did not cx[)erience discomfiture. At Monk's Cor- ner and Laneau's Ferr}^ he was actually in possession of his adversary's camp, before they were apprized of his approach ; and meeting but feeble resistance, was completely triumphant. At the defeat of Buford, the panic that deprived both the commander and his forces of every power of exertion, precluded the possibility of resistance, and they were literally butchered almost to a man. Again, at Fishing Creek, unexpectedly appearing, and by an impetuous attack bearing down the opposition made by a few individuals, commanded by Captain Taylor of Columbia,* he gained new lau- rels as a soldier of enterprise, but additional disgrace as a man, recording his triumph in blood. Here ended the successes of Tarleton. The energies which dis- tinguished his early career, were never again exhibited. * I wished to have spoken more particularly in this work of the services of this gallant soldier and determined Whig — they richly merited praise, and I would gladly have bestowed it, but ray etforts to be made acquainted with the eventful scenes of his life have proved abortive, and it is denied me to record them. Lord Cornwallis very quickly perceived both the abilities and exten- sive influence of Captain Tavlor, and so far departed from the usual austerity of character, as to seek his society, and condescend to argue with him on the impolicy and inutility of resistance, offering him a carte blanche for military promotion and pecuniary emolument, would he but consent to join the British Standard, and aid the establishment of the Royal authority. The proposition was at once rejected ; and Spmter appearing in arms in support of the cause of Liberty, Captain Taylor, with enthusiastic ardour, joined him. The resis- tance made at Fishing Creek, proceeded almost altogether from Captain Tay- lor's company, but was of little avail, and both himself and brother were made prisoners. While conducting under a guard of Cavalry to the British Head- Quarters, perceiving that the dragoons were much intoxicated, and those near them particularly so, Captain Taylor proposed to his relative, that when they should arrive at a part of the road thickly wooded, where the pursuit of cavalry would be unavailing, that on a signal agreed on, they should dash into the Uiickets on opposite sides, and make an effort for liberty. The scheme was agreed to, and carried into effect with the happiest success. Both escaped uninjured. At Blackstock-Hill, Captain Taylor acquired increase of military reputation, but lost his gallant brother, who fell in the action. His zeal never knew abatement during the continuance of the war ; and to the present day, as a distinguished Patriot, he possesses the most gratifying of all rewards, the es- teem and confidence of his country. TARLETON. 287 Foiled by Marion at every point, and incessantly harassed by him, while the combat which he eagerly sought for was declined, he indignantly exclaimed, " Since the Fox (meaning Marion) avoids me, I will seek the Old Cock (Sumter.) He, I know, will fight, and shall pay the penalty for all the vexations 1 have suffered from his wily rival." The result of his brava- does is well known. Sumter beat him at Blackstock Hill, Davie at Charlotte, Lee in every encounter where there was a contention for superiority ; and Washington, at the Cowpens, put to rest the exagge- rated opinions of his prowess and invincibility, never to be revived again. Is it not wonderful that this man, so frequently in- dulging his passions without restraint, and blotting out the fair characters of victory by unexampled severities, could occasionally exhibit all the mildness and urbanity that might be expected from a perfect and well-bred gentleman, a tenderness of feeling, and liberality of soul, that do him the highest honour. There were a circle of ladies assembled, during the siege of Charleston, at Brabant's, the seat of Bishop Smith, near which Colonel Tarleton had fixed his quarters. The delicacy of his attentions to them could not be surpassed; and they with unanimity declare, that they never witnessed any act proceeding from his orders, that did not entitle him to their respect and gratitude. When our gallant countryman. Major Pinckney, received the wound at Gates' defeat, which placed him in the hands of the enemy, the generous feelings of an old school-fellow, Captain Charles Barrington M'Kenzie of the 71st British Regiment, under the blessing of Heaven, preserved his valuable life. Ap- plying to Tarleton for his interposition in behalf of his suffering friend, he immediately received an order to call from the field his Surgeon, whose early attention 288 TARLETON. in all probability, prevented the catastrophe which befel General Porterfield and other officers, whose wounds not being dressed for thirty-six hours, from exhaustion and loss of blood, expired. The character of the wounded prisoner had excited a deep interest in his bosom. The ferocity of his temper was laid aside. He ordered, that every attention should be paid him, that could mitigate the severity of his wound — supplied him amply with port wine, consi- dered essential to prevent the spasms that threatened his life — tendered the restoration of the horses recently impressed from his faaiily at Fort Motte — and urged with the generous spirit of a soldier, the free and unlimited use of his purse. I could pardon him a thousand errors for this emanation of generous sym- pathy. Such attentions were received with the gra- titude they were well calculated to excite. The sin- cerest acknowledgements were expressed for all — though neither the horses nor purse were accepted. This gave an opportunity to M'Kenzie, to display a trait of chivalric gallantry that cannot be too much admired. " Give me his charger, then ;" he feelingly exclaimed, " it shall never be said, that the horse that carried Tom Pinckney, was ever employed against the friends and the cause that were dear to him." BENEDICT APtNOLD. That treachery creates its own punishment, and to the detestation of the world adds, the inward agony " that passeth show," is strikingly exemplified in the history of the apostate Arnold. What were the results of his desertion ? The fair fame acquired by his early exertions, as a Patriot soldier, was blasted. Children that had learnt to lisp his deeds of gallantry, now ARNOLD. 289 shuddered with abhorrence at his name. Execrated by his former friends, despised by his new associates, proscribed by his country, reluctantly obeyed, and by the meanest sentinel held in supreme contempt, his life was a constant scene of apprehension, misery, and remorse. A cloud hun^ over his fortunes that shaded his countenance with the gloom of despair, and betray- ed the increasing agonies of his guilty heart. That such was the state of his mind is clear, from his anxiety to learn from others, what they supposed his fate would be should he fall into the hands of his countrymen. While commanding tlie predatory expedition on the shores of Virginia, a service peculiarly suited to his character, it is stated, that on one occasion, when some danger appeared of his being taken, he asked an officer near him, — " What treatment think you, Sir, am I to look for should the rebels make me their prisoner." ** I have no doubt," replied the oflicer, " though my frankness may offend, but that they will cut off the leg that was wounded in storming the British Lines at Saratoga, and bury it with the honours of war, but having no respect for the rest of your body, they will gibbet it." The contempt that followed him through life, is further illustrated by the speech of the present Lord Lauderdale, who, perceiving Arnold on the right hand of the King, and near his person, as he addressed his Parliament, declared, on his return to the Com- mons, " that however gracious the language he had heard from the throne, his indignation could not but be highly excited, beholding, as he had done, his Ma- jesty supported by a traitor." And on another occasion, Lord Surry, since Duke of Norfolk, rising to speak in the House of Commons, and perceiving Arnold in the gallery, sat down with precipitation, exclaiming, " I will not speak while that man (pointing to him) is in the House." I myself witnessed a remarkably strong 37 290 ARNOLD. proof of it. Sitting in a Coffee-house at Cowes, in 1792, with a British officer of high distinction, he pur- posely turned the conversation on the blessings of the Americans, declaring with earnestness, that he believ- ed them happier, and more to be envied than any peo- ple in the world. A stranger who sat near, and who appeared intent on these encomiums, rose hastily and left the room, when my companion said, " I perceive that you are unacquainted with the traitor, once the pride of your army; the man who has just retired is Benedict Arnold. The language which I used must have appeared extravagant. I spoke of America with enthusiasm, to make him feel his degradation, as no one, in my opinion, so highly merits execration." Well then may we say to fame, " Here and there leave a blank in the page, " To record the fair deeds of his youth. " When you speak of the deeds of his age, ^' Leave a blank for his honour and truth." Sir C. H. Williams Or Still more forcibly to speak our abhorrence, " Let Ignominy brand his hated name, " Let modest matrons at its mention start, '' And blushing virgins, when they read our annals; " Skip o'er the guilty page that hold his legend, " And blots the noble work." Shakspeare. It must ever be lamented, that while so generous and high spirited a soldier as Andre paid the penalty of the treason, the traitor should live to enjoy pecu- niary recompense and command. I cannot say honour , for from the moment of his apostacy, he sunk into the most profound abyss of infamy. The very services required of him, showed the opinion of the Com- mander in Chief. What was the object in Virginia ? Plunder, What at New-London ? Destruction, He was an adept at both, and failed not to add to the ARNOLD. 291 black catalogue of his former atrocities. To finish the climax of iniquity, as if insensible to the results con- templated by his treason, the destruction of the liber- ties of his country, and of the friends who had fought by his side, he has presumed to say, — '' That as Major Andre came within the American posts at his request, he ought also, under the same sanction, to have been allowed to return in safety." In other words ; after having obtained every possible information as to our strength and resources, and having learnt the points at which West Point was most assailable, that he should have been allowed to communicate all this to an active enemy, prepared to take advantage of it. Such is his reasoning. He then proceeds to threats. " I have further to observe, that forty gentlemen, inhabitants of South-Carolina, have justly forfeited their lives, which have hitherto been spared, through the clemency of his Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, who cannot, with pro- priety, extend his mercy to them any longer, if Major Andre suffers, which will open a scene of blood at which humanity will revolt." It is well known that the falsity of the accusation against these patriotic citizens was so gross, that the British never attempted to support it. Had but a shadow of reason appeared to countenance it, there is no doubt but that severity would have been pushed to its utmost limit. MAJOR ANDRE. It is certainly a very singular circumstance, that Andre should, in a very satirical Poem, have foretold his own fate. It was called the " Cow Chace,^^ and was published by Rivington, at New-York, in consequence 292 ANDRE. of the failure r^f an expedition undertaken by Wayne for the i)iirpose of collecting cattle. Great liberties are taken with the American officers employed on the occasion. With " Harry Lee and his Dragoons, and Proctor with his cannon." but the point of his irony seemed particularly aimed at Wayne, whose entire baggage, he asserts, was taken, containing " His Congress dollars, and his prog, " His military speeches : " His cornstalk whiskey for his grog, " Black stockings and blue breeches. And concludes by observing, that it is necessary to check the current of satire, '' Lest the same warrio-drover Wayne, " Should catch — and hang the Poet." He was actually taken by a party from the division of the army immediately under the command of Wayne. CAPTORS OF ANDRE. I SHALL not further notice the attempt to take from the captors of Major Andre, the credit so justly ac- quired by their refusing the bribes which he offered, than to express my satisfaction at its complete failure. To deprive such men of honours, that not only estab- lished their fame, but increased the reputation of their country, merely on report, and the suggestions of the prisoner, is, indeed, as has been forcibly said, — " To tear the fairest leaf from our history." But after the CAPTORS OF ANDRE. 293 insult offered to public sentiment, by the attempt to in- sinuate that Putnam wanted courage; that the veteran> who through a long course of service, and to his last hour possessed the entire confidence of the Father of his country, whose achievements the painter and his« torian have delighted to celebrate, shrunk from his duty, we may well say, " What worth so strong " Can tie the gall up in the slanderous tongue." Shaespeare. Fascinated by the manners and character of Major Andre, and particularly by the firmness he displayed, it is evident that Major Talmadge was prepared to believe whatever he might assert ; for he stands too high in the estimation of his brother officers, and of the community, to be suspected of a desire to depre- ciate the merits of men to whom honour is due. But why such delay — why suffer medals to be delivered to them in presence of the army, in testimony o^ fidelity. Why suffer Congress to settle a pension on each, re- citing in their journals, " In consequence of their virtue in refusing a large sum offered to them by Major Andre, as a bribe to permit him to escape ;" and then, after a lapse of 37 years, assert, " that had the bribe been higher, the men possessing the blessings of their country, w^ould have been stigmatised by its curses." An extract of a letter from General Hamilton, in 1780, to Colonel Sears, of Boston, settles the point to my satisfaction. He says, " to the conduct of Arnold, that of the captors of Andre forms a striking contrast. He tempted their integrity with the offer of his watch, his horse, and any sum of money they should name. They rejected his offers with indignation; and the gold which could seduce a man, high in the esteem and confidence of his country, who had the remembrance of past exploits, the motives of present reputation and future glory to prop his integrity, had no charms for 294 CAPTORS OF ANDRE. three simple countrymen, leaning only on their virtue and a sense of their duty." While Arnold is handed down with execration to future times, posterity will repeat with reverence the name of Van Wert, Pauld- ing, and Williams. To commemorate the capture of Major Andre, Adjutant General of the British army, Congress or- dered a Medal to be struck, highly flattering to the patriotic virtue of the soldiers who arrested him : Device. — A Shield. Legend, — Fidelity. Reverse* — A Wreath. Legend, — Vincit Amor Patri^. COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF THE CONTENDING ARMIES. Before I make a comparison relative to the degrees of calamitous suffering experienced by the contending armies, I would briefly contrast their situation at the commencement of hostilities, when candour will not hesitate to pronouce, that every advantage was on the side of the British forces. Nor would it surprise, when my statement is brought ta a conclusion, that my reader should accord with the opinion of a late writer, and exclaim, *' How much must we ever ad- mire the constancy and heroism of that band, whom defeat could not conquer, or calamity subdue — who rallied in the face of adverse fortune, and found a noble compensation for her reverses in the sacredness of that cause to which they had offered up the libation of their blood, and the tribute of their lives. A cause on which they had conferred an unfading splendour by the practice, of more than the courtesies of civilized warfare, in the midst of provocations, which would have justified a retaliation full, sanguinary, and ex- terminating." The invaders approached our coasts prepared at all points for conquest. Attached by the tenderest ties of affection and consanguinity to the Parent State, the people of America had indulged the delusive idea, that a few commercial restrictions, aided by the justice of their claims, and humility with which they were offered to the throne, would speedily effect a recon- 296 COMl'ARATIVE SUFFERING OF ciliation with it. An appeal to arms had never been seriously contemplated, — no preparation had been made for defence, — and an absolute want of every military implement, of ammunition, troops, and money, prevailed throughout the continent, when the peace- able inhabitants beheld themselves- invaded by the hostile armies of a nation, according to the prejudice of long cherished opinion, the most powerful and bravest in the world. While the distresses experienced were fully propor- tioned to the extent of the delusion, they produced the advantage of rendering the firmness of the American character conspicuously eminent. The rich contri- buted their fortunes for the support of the war — the enlightened their abilities, to fix the wavering, con- vince the unfriendly, and give unanimity to all. A general conformity of opinion, with regard to the necessity of opposition, was the immediate conse- quence. Every idea of personal danger or incon- venience, was lost in the desire of contributing to the public weal. The spirit of enterprise was universal — it nerved every arm, and animated every bosom. Old age forgot its weakness — decrepitude its infirmities — the levities of youth were laid aside, and the only contention was, who should be foremost in the career of glory — who should render the most essential ser- vices to his country. These circumstances premised, we can more justly estimate the virtues and sufferings of the hostile armies contending for superiority. Lord Cornvvailis, in a letter to Lord George Ger- maine, giving an account of the battle of Guilford, says, *' The conduct and actions of the officers and soldiers that compose this little army, will do more justice to their merit, than 1 can do by words. Their persevering intrepidity in action, their invincible patience in the hardships and fatigues of a march of above six hundred miles, in which they forded several THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 297 Iar2;e rivers and numberless creeks, many of which would be reckoned large rivers in any other country in the world, without tents or covering against the cli- mate, and often without provisions, will sufficiently manifest their ardent zeal for the honour and interest of their Sovereign and country." If a patient endurance of [)rivations and difficulties, such as are here mentioned, give claim to distinction, how pre-eminently superior must we consider the me- rits of the Continental Soldiers, contending without a murmur, through a long course of service, against the accumulated miseries o^ famine, nakedness and dis- ease. The British, though occasionally restricted in the indulgence of their appetites, and scantily supplied with food, were abundantly furnished with every neces- sary article of clothing, were well shod, enjoyed an ample supply of salt and liquor, when engaged in active service ; and in sickness, were liberally sup- ported with wine, medicine, and every comfort that could mitigate the severity of disease. Their arms and accoutrements were perfect, and ammunition so abundant, that no soldier carried less than thirty-six rounds ; and when in expectation of battle, each indi- vidual was accommodated with a double supply. On the other hand, the Continental Troops, exposed to every inclemency of weather, without one comfortable article of clothing, without shoes, without blankets, without salt, liquor, or medicine, poorly fed, badly armed, and scantily furnished with ammunition, could alone support the severity of their trials, by the steadi- ness of their principles, and perfect conviction of the justice of the cause in which ihey fought. Their zeal too acquired an energy which danger seemed only to improve ; and from adversity they derived new honour by the inflexible firmness with which they met its severest trials. This is no delusive representation I With less devotion to their cherished creed, " Or Death, .^8 298 COMPARATIVE SUFFERIiNG OF or Libertp,^^ nature must have sunk under the oppres- sion of calamity. Let us for a moment more parti- cularly view the miseries to which they were exposed ! When on a march, from the want of shoes, they might have been traced by the blood flowing from their lacerated feet. When in camp, the most gallant sol- diers oi the line, who never turned their backs upon an enemy, have often been discovered shrinking from observation, and soliciting to be excused from duty, from the shame attending the absolute want of clothing to cover their nakedness. To the comforts enjoyed by their opponents they were altogether strangers. Salt was a luxury when it could be obtained, and liquor still more so ; but rarely indeed did they partake of either. Often were they known to subsist for weeks together on Rice alone ; the food (from the re- ceived opinion that it produced blindness) the most hateful to them ; unless, when the neighbouring ponds and ditches afforded a mess of Frogs and Crayfish, or a scanty supply was tendered of beef, so miserably poor, that it was not uncommon to support for slaugh- ter, the wretched animal on which they were invited to feed. A letter from the Baron de Kalb, dated August 14th, 1780, to the Chevalier de la Luzerne, gives the clear- est proofs, both of their sufferings and fidelity. He writes, "You may judge of the virtues of our small army from the following fact. We have, for several days, lived upon nothing but peaches, and 1 have heard no complaint. There has been no desertion." Of liquor it would be farcical to speak. One quart of spirits per head to each officer, one gill to every private sentinel, being the allowance distributed once every fortnight by the issuing Commissary. Arms, with the exception of bayonets, were in sufficient abundance ; but the supply of ammunition so very scanty, that on one occasion, when called on to ex- THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 299 amine the quantity possessed by the Legion Infantry, in momentary expectation of engaging the British, within view of their post at the Quarter-House, I found that it did not exceed three rounds to a man. This is a topic that may, with propriety, be more par- ticularly dwelt upon, since deprived of the most essen- tial means of resistance, to face danger with undaunted spirit, gave evident proof of superior fortitude, and higher title to praise. I will mention an occurrence of a very singular nature, and certainly interesting, as the fate of the army in a great measure depended on it. After the retreat of the American army across the Yadkin, Dr. William Read, superintending the Gene- ral Hospital, received instruction from General Greene to organize a guard of invalids and convalescents, as well for the protection of the stores of the Department, as for the better security of several prisoners commit- ted to his charge. Thirty stand of arms was furnished for the purpose. Such, at the moment, was the en- feebled state of the army, that the General, ordering Dr. Read to incline to the left, and to reach Virginia by the nearest route, said, — '' You are to march through a country much disaffected, yet I can neither spare you a sufficiency of ammunition, nor a military superintendant; you must use every exertion to defend yourself, and all expedition to reach your destination." The General himself, taking a road to the right, an ammunition wagon that had been sent forward, de- viated from its course, and actually preceded the party attached to the Hospital Department. On its being discovered that it was missing, Major Call, of Wash- ington's, was detached in search of it, but was unsuc- cessful in all his inquiries, when falling in with Dr. Read, he delivered a letter from the General, earnestly urging him to use every possible means to discover and secure it, and to send the contents, which were highly important to the army, with all expedition, and 300 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF by the most direct route to him. On reaching Salem, the wagon, which had been particularly described by the General, was discovered in the principal street, locked up, and to all appearance its contents untouch- ed. A report had been spread that Cornwallis had crossed the Yadkin, and several Georgia families flying to the North, and the women, generally wearing red cloaks, appearing in view, had been mistaken by the drivers for the enemy, who immediately cut loose their horses, abandoned their charge, and mounting them, precipitately fled. Dr. Read, in compliance with his instructions, now applied to Mr. Trangut Baggu, the respectable principal of the Moravian Settlement, tell- ing him that necessity compelled him immediately to put in requisition a certain number of men and horses, whose services could not be dispensed with, and who acting faithfully, would be liberally rewarded. Abun- dant objections were immediately raised, as any service promoting the purposes of war, militated directly against the principles of the Society ; but these being quickly overruled, the cartridges which the wagon con- tained were carefully packed in sacks, and sent off on six stout horses, under the direction of men who could be relied on, and who, crossing the country by an un- frequented route, reached the General in safety. To the honour of the Superintendant, I was informed by Dr. Read, that tendering pay for the attention shown to the sick and wounded, he said, " they were sufficiently afllicted by their sufferings, and that he could not think of aggravating misfortune by draining their purses." To Lieutenant Saunders, an officer severely wounded, who wished to compensate him for distinguished civili- ties received, by his orders, he said, " were I disposed to take your money, humanity would forbid it. The groans that you uttered during the last night, too sen- sibly excite my pity to suffer me to think of receiving compensation for the trifling services I have been able THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 301 to render you." When Dr. Read wished to settle his own private bill, the worthy Principal decidedly refused all remuneration, saying, with much expression of feeling, — " You have passed the night without sleep, administering comfort and consolation to the afflicted; you have mitigated the sufferings of your fellow men ; such conduct too highly excites my admiration, to suffer me to treat you otherwise than as a brother. Accept, gratuitously, what you have received, and be assured, that to the best that 1 can bestow you shall ever be welcome." In European warfare the loss of a single ammunition wagon would be regarded as a circumstance too trivial to excite anxiety, or to be mentioned with regret; but at the period which I speak of, the scarcity of powder and ball was such that it became necessary to husband them with the strictest attention ; and it is not to be questioned, but that the chance of victory to America, at the well contested battle of Guilford, which imme- diately followed, must have been greatly diminished but for the important service rendered by Dr. Read. But at a later period, the difficulties arising from the want of ammunition were still further increased. It is well known, that in the year 1781, when the services of General Marion were most required to check the depredations of an active enemy, that from the defi- ciency of this essential article, he was too frequently compelled to remain in a state of inactivity. Writing to General Greene on the subject, Colonel Otho Wil- liams, the second in command, replied, " General Greene being absent, I took the liberty of opening your letter of the 9th instant. Our stock of ammunition is quite exhausted. We have not an ounce of powder, nor a cartridge in store." To return to the miseries sustained from other pri- vations. 302 COMPARATIV E SUFFERING OF An officer of rank, belonging to our army, severely wounded at Gates' defeat, informed me, that as he passed over the field of battle in the wagon which was to convey him to Camden, a Sergeant of the 33d British Regiment looking into it, with an expression of generous sym|)athy, said, '* You appear, Sir, severely injured, and much exhausted by the loss of blood. Take my canteen, its contents may revive and strengthen you/' An expression of compassionate feeling, at all times fascinating, could not, at such a period, be received but with peculiar gratitude. The gift was accepted, and contained wine of an excellent quality. Let me suppose that other soldiers were supplied with liquor as liberally as this benevolent Sergeant, and how great the contrast with the condi- tion of our unfortunates, who, for many days previous to the battle, had not, even under the pressure of their greatest fatigues, been cheered with a single glass of spirits. Dr. William Read, superintending the Conti- nental Hospital at Flillsborough, subsequent to the defeat at Camden, making a representation to General Gates, of the deplorable condition of the sick and wounded, was asked by him, " What have you to com- fort them ?" '' Literally nothing," replied Dr. Read. " Then," rejoined the General, " their situation is truly deplorable, since I neither possess the means of yielding present relief, nor immediate prospect of affording any." Even to those who still retained their health, the loss of baggage was attended with incalculable in- crease of calamity — the comfort of a necessary change of linen was denied ; and more than one officer, from the impossibility of appearing with decency on parade, was compelled altogether to avoid it. Of the deplorable situation of the Continental offi- cers, even of the highest grade, some idea may be formed from the fact I am about to relate, and which THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 30S may be relied on as perfectly correct. Dr. Fayssoux joining the army of General Greene in North Caro- lina, called at the hut of General Finger, the second in command, but was refused admission. The Doctor insisted on his right to enter, the sentinel in conformity to his orders, denied it. The altercation was heard by the General, who recognizing the voice of his friend, desired that he might be allowed to pass into the hut. *' Pardon me, Doctor," said the General, who lay on the ground wrapped up in an old military cloak, " for giving you so ungracious a reception ; but, the fact is, the chances of war have robbed me of every comfort, and I confined myself to solitude and an old cloak, while my washerwoman prepares for a future occasion, the only shirt I own." If an officer of distinguished rank, universally beloved and respected, for whose accommo- dation there was not an individual in the service who would not have made sacrifices, was thus circumstanced, what must have been the miseries of the lower grades, and wretchedness of the private sentinels ? Applying to a gentleman, on the accuracy of whose information I could place the most implicit confidence, relative to the sufferings of the army after the battle of Guilford, he replied, " 1 have known the whole army subsist for several days on Indian Corn, grated down on tin can- teens, in which holes had been punched for the occa- sion, having no other subsistence of bread kind, every Mill having been destroyed by the enemy. This was particularly the case during the pursuit of the army of Cornwallis retiring upon Wilmington, when such was the extremity of suffering, from the want of animal food, that the Continental Soldiers were feign to put up with the offal left in the slaughter-pens of the re- treating army. Of our privations relative to the com- forts of necessary clothing against the inclemencies of a rigorous season, I can, with truth, assure you, that for the greater, part of the winter 1 shared with Gen- 304 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF eral Huger and Colonel Kosciusko, an old cloak of the General's, being without a blanket, or any other pro- tection whatever." From long marches, incessant fatigue, and scanty and unwholesome food, the diseases which prevailed, had, for the most part, a malignant tendency, and stimulants were considered as essential to counteract their threat- ening symptoms. Wine, spirit, and the medicines that were most requisite, were not to be procured, and on decoctions of snake-root alone, to obtain which the whole country was ransacked, depended the chance to the afflicted, of recovery. Where surgery was neces- sary to give relief, the difficulty to the operator was no less distressing. When the gallant Captain Watts, of Washington's, fell at Eutaw, a ball having passed through his lungs, Dr. Irvine assured me that he was compelled to cut up a tent found on the field to make bandages, before he could dress his wounds. On another occasion, 1 knew a gentleman attached to the Medical Department, whose anxious mother, at the moment of his departure for the army, apprehending accident to himself, slipped six rolls of bandages into his portmanteau, and who assured me, that a smart engagement speedily following, none other were to be found for the relief of the wounded, than the bandages in his possession. The evidence of the medical gentle- men who still survive, Drs. Read, Irvine, Broomfield, and Stephens, if it were necessary to call for it, would fully corroborate the statement made of the total want of the supplies essential to the support of exhausted nature. And in more than one instance, I have myself beheld the hardy veteran sink into his grave, to whom even a small portion of renovating wine or cordial might have restored sufficient vigour to resist the fatal pressure of disease. In addition to this evil, despon- dency too frequently gave birth to tbat longing after home, productive of the most fatal consequences. One THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 305 instance is very strongly impressed on my recollection. Emblen, one of the most distinguished soldiers of the Legion, who had but a few days before exhibited, in action, consummate bravery, applied to Captain Ru- dolph for permission to visit his friends in Jersey. *' I would willingly grauc you i^ermission," said Rudolph, " but consider, Emblen, how pernicious the example which you set. Others will think themselves equally entitled with yourself to demand a furlough, and what will be the conspquence. If granted, much injury will he done to the service, if refused, just cause given for offence." " I know Captain, that you are right," replied the unfortunate petitioner, "but sensibly feel, that to me deninal is death." He had not, at the period, a symp- tom of disease, never after uttered a complaint, and in three days was a corpse. The Irish and Northern soldiers, though insensible of danger in the field, were, in the event of sickness, more than all others subject to despondency ; insomuch, that it was constantly said, " Let a Yankee or Irishman say, / will die, and all medical aid might be withheld, since die he would.^^ Equalj then, in active courage to their adversaries, I do not consider it an unfair conclusion, to say, that in adverse fortune, they greatly surpassed them, or pro- bably any other soldiers that ever took the field. The opinion of General Charles Lee, which I consider as high authority, was to this effect. " I solemnly declare, that were it at my choice to select from all the nations of the earth, to form an excellent and perfect army, 1 would without hesitation give the preference to Ame- ricans. By publishing this opinion, I cannot incur the suspicion of paying court to their vanity, as it is noto- riously the language which I have ever held."* The sentiment which I have advanced is still further corroborated by the steadiness with which they adhered -'- Lee's Memoir;? .S9 Sm COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF to the standard of their country, since in defiance of all the temptations held out to encourage desertion, par- don for treason, pecuniary reward, and liberal promo- tion, the miseries of rags and rice were forgotten, and the sufferings of the immediate hour lost, in the cheer- ing hope of a more propitious futurity. The Anecdote which follows evinces the accuracy of my statement. During the severity of the winter campaign in North Carolina, General Greene, passing a sentinel who was barefoot, said, " I fear, my good fellow, you must suffer from cold." " Pretty much so," was the reply ; " but I do not complain, because I know that I should fare better, had our General power to procure supplies. They say, however, that in a few days we shall have a light, and then, by the blessing of God, I shall take care to secure a pair of shoes." Nor did the retirement of the enemy within their lines, cause any mitigation of suffering. Who but one that experienced the calamity, can form a conception of the wretchedness of the soldier exposed, in a dreary pine barren, to the scorching heat of an almost vertical sun, without a breeze to renovate his enfeebled strength, or a single comfort to cheer him, experiencing the still severer evils of the night, when baleful vapours, loaded with pestilential effluvium, and dews that chilled even to the marrow of his bones, associated with the inces- sant buzzing and goading stings of innumerable insects, bid defiance to the comfort and refreshment of sleep, and caused the day, with its comparatively trivial hor- rors, to be longed for again. To the enemy the loss of men by desertion, was alone prevented by the difficulties impeding every effort to escape. The Navy, always on the alert, cut off every possibility of escape by water; and by land, the Neck on which Charleston stands was the only outlet. Yet many did pass it, and it was to the vigi- lance alone of their Black Dragoons, whose orders THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 307 were " to strike, and spare not," that the number was not greatly augmented. Had but the opportunity been afforded to the battalions of Hesse, few of their num- ber would ever have returned to Germany. Fourteen of these unfortunates, detected on one occasion in an attempt to escape, were found by our patrol, near their outposts, cut up to atoms. And there need no stronger proof of their anxiety to remain, than to men- tion, that on the night of the evacuation of the city, considerably upvs^ards of one hundred Germans were brought to the main Guard, who had concealed them- selves in chimnies and common sewers, risking their lives, and supporting for many days all the miseries of hunger and thirst, rather than return to their Prince, and the soil of their nativity. I would next endeavour, by candid comparison, to prove, that in generosity to their enemies the soldiers of the American army had decided claims to superiority. The intrepid band, whose devotion to the cause of Liberty had taught them not only how to act, but how to suffer, by the same inspiration of exalted feeling, had learnt to temper the triumphs of victory with mercy and forbearance. R(^ady on all occasions to meet and actively repel the hostile attacks of an approach- ing enemy, none were more happy to spare a suppliant foe, than the soldiers of America. Parcere subjectis et debellare superbos, was the cherished principle of their hearts, and they never suffered even the most outrageous provocation, to cause the slightest deviation from it. Witness the moderation of the conquerors at Trenton, Saratoga, the Cowpens, and Eutaw. Contrast the forbearance of Lieutenant Colonel Lee, preventing the pursuit of the misguided Insurgents under Pyle, with the severity of Tarleton, on every occasion where the opportunity was offered, to indulge his propensity to slaughter; 308 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF and finally, having viewed the refinement in cruelty of Arnold at Fort Griswold, wading through blood to victory, turn to the siege of York-Town, and remem- ber how honourable to his detachment, storming the advanced redoubt of the British, the expression of the Marquis de la Fayette. " That incapable of imitating examples of barbarity, and forgeting recent provoca- tions, they spared every man that ceased to resist." Still more fully to show how strong the desire of the Americans to soften asperities towards the unfor- tunate, I would record the generous forbearance observed, in an hour of extreme irritation, towards rhe wife and child of the traitor Arnold. Soon as it was known to him that his guilt was discovered to its full extent, Arnold, entering the apartment of his wife, ex- claimed, " All is lost, — Andre is a prisoner, — burn all my papers ; I fly to New-York." The unfortunate lady fainted and fell. Her servants, apprised of the circumstancje by the cries of the child, whom she fed at the breast, by the application of proper remedies, restored her senses ; but recollecting that she was in the midst of friends treacherously forsaken, and of an army that her husband had basely endeavoured to betray, it may well be imagined, that her anguish was ineffable. She trembled lest he should have been arrested in his flight, and distracted by her fears, called aloud for pardon. General Washington, who knew her to be an excellent wife, and respected her as a good mother, unwilling to increase the poignancy of her anguish by prolonging suspense, with delicate kindness informed her, that the. object of her solicitude had escaped his pursuers, and was safe on board the Vulture sloop of war. His attentions did not stop at this point. It was left at her option to receive safe conduct to the British lipes, or to return to her friends and family in Philadelphia. She said, " She would share the fate of her husband ; but, before joining him, was anxious to see her parents, and THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 309 bid them a tender and final adieu." In this request too she was indulged. Not only the General himself, but even the sternest Republicans, rejected the idea of making her answerable for the apostacy and crime of her husband; and of this moderation a signal proof was immediately given. In a town where she stopped, on her way to Philadelphia, preparations were on foot to burn Arnold in effigy. On its being announced to the populace, that his wife was within its limits, hu- manity assuaged the irritations of just indignation, and these preparations were, by universal consent, sus- pended. I mention with pleasure, the conduct of the Chevalier de la Luzerne on this occasion. Letters were found among the papers of Arnold, which treated his character with indignity. They were brought to him, and he at once consigned them to the flames, without the slightest expression of curiosity to know their contents. It is equally certain, that in the exercise of recipro- cal good offices and acts of kindness to each other, the soldiers of America were actuated by sentiments of affectionate feeling, with which their adversaries appear to have been altogether unacquainted. Their association in difficulty, the adverse events which they had shared together, united their minds and their affec- tions in the closest ties. It rendered the severities of service more supportable, soothed the afflictions of the sick and wounded, and even to the bed of death, con- veyed the most grateful consolations. To contribute to the comfort of a suffering companion, I know not the man who would not have sacrificed every con- sideration of self', and if even a glimmering prospect appeared of procuring relief, who wowld not, with unceasing industry, have aimed at its attainment. — This was, by no means, the case in the British army ; distinction of rank, and inequality of fortune, might have weakened the enthusiasm of military attachment, 310 COMPARATIVE SUFFERING OF and even fashion^ may have had its influences in pre- venting the i^reatest intimates from depending too much on each other. It may be stated in opposition to my assertion, that after the fatal lot had been drawn by Sir Charles Asgill, which doomed him as a victim of retaliation, to death, that his friend Ludlow would not consent to be separated from him. But, it must be recollected, that their intimacy had been formed in early life at Westminster School, long before their en- tering into the army ; and it was never known, in the hour of adversity, that one Westminster would forsake another. I will adduce, in support of my charge, an Anecdote received from the distinguished personage to whom it particularly relates. An officer of the Guards, severely wounded at Guilford, was passing the terK of Colonel Howard, since Lord Suffolk, on a litter, the morning subsequent to the battle, when thus addressed by him : — *' Ha, Jack, my good fellow, how do you find yourself to day ?" " In much agony, Colonel ; but I think likely to feel better, if favoured by a cup of the good tea which I see before you." " Why, as to the tea, Jack," said the Colonel, " you shall be welcome to it ; but, damn me if I would find sugar in this desolate wilderness for a brother." " Pass on," said the wounded man, " refreshment so ungraciously bestowed, could do me no good." But, with what shadow of excuse could any man attempt to palliate the insolence, and still more, the ingratitude of which there were perpetual examples. The contempt w^ith which they affected to regard the citizens of America, the free indulgence of insolence towards captives, placed by the chances of war within their power, increased the arrogance of many military * An officer of the puards assured me, that however great the familiarity and appearance of friendship in the guard room, or in mixed society, that it gave no sanction to an intimacy in the family of an associate, or even \o make a visit, unless by particular invitation. THE CONTENDING ARMIES. 311 characters to so high a pitch, that they actually ap- peared to consider themselves as beings of a superior order. The military in France, in latter times, apply- ing the contemptuous appellation of pequins to the rest of the world, were not more arrogant. A thou- sand instances gave proof of it in Charleston. One has been particularly mentioned. A military coxcomb of the garrison, having a dispute with a gentleman in the Civil Department, significantly pointing to his coat, exclaimed, " I, Sir, by my coat, am a gentleman. You a Mohair, a mere man of fustian, and too con- temptible to excite resentment." Of their ingratitude I will give a very striking example. They had but few friends in Carolina, but those who had adhered to them did it with a pride and devotion that claimed their utmost gratitude. Yet it is certain, that they laughed at and despised the very persons to whom they were the most indebted. The Harry Barry, so frequently mentioned in these Anecdotes, while in public he flattered with marked attention, was well known in the circle of his inti- mates, to ridicule in miserable doggerel the females, at the shrine of whose beauty, he affected to pay his ado- ration. And after the war, I heard a very respectable refugee declare, that having been absent from England for some time, and on his return, meeting in the streets of London with Major Skelly, who, when in the gar- rison of Charleston, had been received in his family on the footing of a brother, he began anxiously to inquire about the fortunes of many of their former acquaintances, when laconically and with a very signi- ficant bow, he replied, " Mr. R , I am a man of candour, and would not wish to deceive you. My Ammcan acquaintances were altogether the acquain- tances of convenience, and I have cut them all. I take the liberty, therefore, to wish you a very good morning.'- THE MOST ILLUSTRIOUS PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN, OPPOSED TO THE AMERICAN WAR. In looking back to the history of our Revolution, it is pleasing to recollect, that tlie characters throughout the United States, the most distinguished by their talents and their virtues, with scarcely an exception, embraced the principles which were to free their coun- try from a servile dependence upon a corrupt and tyrannical government. In Great Britain, the indi- viduals the most exalted in the esteem of the public — the wisest in council, — the most renowned for integ- rity, and entertaining the most correct vievi^s of the just rights of the people, and true interests of the nation, not only commended the zeal and unanimity with which the Colonists resisted the attempts of the admi- nistration to oppress them, but, both by their sentiments freely disseminated abroad, and irresistible eloquence on the floor of Parliament, encouraged them to persist in defence of their violated rights and privileges, even when sensible that successful opposition, by giving birth to the independency of the revolted Provinces, would rob the Crown of its brightest and most inesti- mable jewel. Ambition alone, it is generally said, bears predominant sway in the bosoms of political characters; but I cannot think that the line of conduct PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN, &c. SVo adopted by the distinguished men to whom I allude, proceeded either from a determined spirit of opposition, or the secret, though fondly cherished hope, that by rendering the acts of the Administration unpopular, they might open the way to their own advancement to power, and the attainment of the authority which would place the reins in their hands, by which the destinies of the nation were to be guided. Such con- tracted views were surely inconsistent with the well tried patriotism of many of the advocates of America. They opposed the inordinate strides of the Ministry towards the establishment of despotism, from a clear perception that their success in America, would be but the prelude to their efforts to destroy domestic liberty, and that the extinction of freedom in the Western world, would be speedily followed by its annihilation in their native land. In the House of Lords, the im- mortal Chatham, the Dukes of Richmond, Grafton, and Devonshire, the Marquis of Rockingham, the Lords Camden, Shelbourne, Fitzwilliam, Effingham, and others; in the House of Commons, Burke, Colo- nel Barre, Fox, David Hartley, Lord Thomas Caven- dish, General Conway, and Wilks; among men of letters, Drs. Price and Priestly, John Miller, of Glas- gow, advocated the resistance of the Americans, and rejoiced at their successes, as essentially beneficial to the liberty and happiness of the world. On the other hand, the Administration,- with blind infatuation, per- sisted in their resolution to put down opposition, and by the most absurd and gross mispresentations strove to render the people propitious to their views. The information which they might have received, and which could not have failed to dissipate the delusive hope of successfully terminating the war, was either not sought for, or when given, not attended to. I have often heard a respectable Loyalist, Mr, Henry Feron- ncmr, the first Refugee from South Carolina, who 314 PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN readied Great Britain, declare, that when examined by the Lords North and Germaine, relative to the state of affairs in America, that although the first named of these noblemen listened with politeness and compla- cency to the statements which he made, that the last invariably checked the current of his information, where it did not altogether correspond with his views and cherished hopes of conquest. And it to this day remains a blot upon the character of the nation, that when the venerable Dr. Franklin was called up for examination before the Privy Council, that instead of the interrogations being made, that would have led to the development of the truth, and probably healed the wounds that were festering with incessant increase of irritation, that the stern and vindictive Wedderhourne was encouraged to indulge in a de^gree of ribaldry and invective, disgraceful to his character as a gentleman, and betraying an extent of prejudice, dishonourable to him as a man. The more certainly to effect their pur- poses, no calumny w^as restrained by the Administra- tion, no act nor device was left unessayed to excite to the highest pitch the resentments of the people against their persecuted brethren. The steadiness of their re- sistance to the arbitrary decrees, and the rejection of the burdens they wished to impose, were styled the stubborn aggressions of rebellious children against the just rights of their parent, an open violation of the duty and submission which nature demanded, and which ought to result from its love, and fostering care and protection. The avarice, too, of the people was excited by being perpetually told, that this obstinate race not only refused to contribute to a share in the expenditure lavished for their support and protection, but refused to bear a proportion of the burden of taxation, which, equitably divided, would greatly lessen the proportion, under existing circumstances, unjustly imposed on the Parent State. The people were deceived, and led to OPPOSED TO tHE AMERICAN WAR. 315 approve the war. The opinions of the patriots of the nation were not so easily influenced. In proof it I will prpsent to my readers extracts from two letters of that excellent man and profound politician, the late Right Honourable William Windham, written to a deceased patriot of our own State, Paul Trapier, jun. Esq. who had bpen his intimate friend, and the companion of his early years, at Eaton. COPY OP A LETTER FROM THE HONOURABLE WILLIAM WINDHAM. TO PAUL TRAPIER, JUX. ESQ. OP SOUTH-CAROLINA, DATED " London, July SOth, ITJJ, *^ My Dear Friend, " An opportunity is at length given to me, of writing to you with some prospect of safe conveyance ; let me avail myself of the means offered to me, though it be only to send you a few lines — a few lines may answer the chief purpose of my writing, and relieve me from an uneasiness that has dwelt upon my mind, ever since the first interruption of communication between the two countries. You ma}' remember, that, though in all your letters you used to enter upon sub- jects of Politics, I seldom used to take much notice of them in return, or give you any satisfactory account of my opinions. The reason was, that at that time, the subject had never come within my con- sideration, nor had I employed my thoughts long enough on the matters you used to propose, to form any determinate opinion. Things soon after came to a crisis, in which it was no longer possible for a man of understanding or feeling to remain without inquiry ; and the result of that inquiry has been, to render me a Jinn and zealous friend, as Jirm and zealous as any one either in this country or youi'^s, to the cause in which you are engaged. Be assured, that through the whole of this busmess, my fears and hopes have kept exact pace with your's. I have exulted at your success, and repined at yoiu' miscarriage — have heard with as much grief any advantage of Howe, and triumphed as much at the success of Washington, as any man on your side the water. The hope is now lost for ever, of soeinff this countrv blended again with our former brethren on the 316 PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN other side of the Atlantic, in bonds of mutual honour, interest, and afiection. The mischievous designs of a corrupt court, operating in the midst of universal luxury and depravity, have spread rancour and devastation through millions of people, that ought to have been united in the ties of brotherly love ; and shaken an empire to pieces, that was the greatest, and might have been the happiest on earth. But, out of this scene of evil, final good, I hope, will be produced. America, rising in the vigour of new-born virtue, will be better, per- haps, for her separation from this corrupt and depraved country, and will, I hope, long continue the asylum of freedom and virtue. For the fate of us here, I am much less solicitous, than for the general interests of mankind, the preservation of freedom in some part of the globe, and the success of a people engaged in so righteous a cause ; and these, I am happy to say, are the sentiments of numbers of the people, whom I rank among my friends. " Though you are now safely, I hope, established in Independence, and though this country, if it is to be judged by its public acts, has but little claim to kindness, yet all memory, I hope, will not be lost of those, (not an inconsiderable number) who had viewed with hor- ror, the measures that have been pursued, and of the hundreds and thousands who have had no other crime, than a total ignorance of what concerned them as well as you. I am fully persuaded, that there is a fund of candour, and honest good sense among the people here, that vv^ould have made three-fourths of them Partisans of Ame- rica, if the merits of the cause had been properly made laiown to ihem. . But, the higher orders of society are lost in vice and dissipa- tion, and the nation has been left to itself, abandoned to the wicked industry of the court. Nothing will save us, lost and devoted as we are, but a general insurrection of the lower orders of the people, purging off the contaminated spume, that has mantled over the top of the spring, and threatened to choke it up. " In all relations and situations, our sentiments and attachments vvill remain, I hope, the same ; and I shall be happy if friendship to an individual may dispose you to a more favourable regard of people, a great portion of whom, perhaps the greatest, are still such as deserve the name of countrymen and brethren. I could name many of those you formerly knew, warm in the sentiments which animate me. Many go with the stream of ministerial corruption. Grymes, John Grymes, of whom I had entertained other hopes, is, as I take it fer granted you know, actually engaged against you.- OPPOSED TO THE AMERICAN WAR. 317 '• The Americans have one reason to feel less resentment at Howe's army, which is, that I am persuaded the greatest part of them would act with precisely the same alacrity, against any part of the people here, as against those in America ; I have heard many declare it in so many words. If it should be possible, it would give me infinite satisfaction, to know that you have received this, and in what situation you are, for I can hear nothing. I must leave off now immediately, believe me, my dear friend ;, with every wish for your success. Your's.'^ " Dunkirk, March 12M, 1778. " My Dear Trapier, ^' An opportunity has offered of writing to you, which I could hardly have looked for. I must write in a hurry, but that shall not prevent my writing. A few words may express what is essential, as well as a great many. You are to know, that since the commence- ment of this fatal war, I have written to you numerous letters, the purport of all of which has been, to tell you what I hope you will hear with pleasure, that I am a firm and zealous friend to the cause of America in the fullest extent. I reprobate from the beginning the conduct of Great Britain. I feel, with the fullest conviction, tlie madness and wickedness of our Councils ; and I exult in the resistance which America has made, and the success with which it has been crowned. The weakness of Great Britain, and not the justice or generosity will now, I hope, put a period to the progress of calamity . Though I have no expectations from the propositions now made in a manner the most disgraceful to the country, yet I flatter myself we shall not have much more war. I have looked upon the affair for some time as decided, and decided in favour of justice, liberty, and the general happiness of mankind. It terminates, indeed most com- pletely, to the dishonour of England ; but, if England will depart from all those generous principles which have hitherto enobled it, and become the invader, instead of the supporter of the liberties of the world, I shall be the first to say, let her meet with disgrace. I could wish very much to see the two countries united in some shape or other, so as to feel again a common interest and glory. The point of Independence is not a matter with me of any consequence. If Independence is necessary to the welfare or safety of America, let a treaty be instantly formed on that ground 5 but, if Liberty can be as well secured without that, and that the count ries considered as one, $IS PATRIOTS OF GREAT BRITAIN, &c. will be likely to settle into a closer union, I would wish it were given up. Nor can I see, that the condition of America, considered not as an appendant to this country, but as a partner in a common empire, will be less respectable, then as a collection of independant States. This is the sum of my sentiments, which it would be an infinite relief to me to know, that you were acquainted with. It has been, for these three years, a most painful reflection to me to think, that you might possibly be under the impression of my entertaining sentiments which I hold in utter abhorrence. " I write this letter to you from a place where you will be sur- prised to hear of me — Dunkirk — whither I have come for a day by accident, having come over for ten days to St. Omer's, to see a friend, wiio has been obliged lately to reside there. An American Captain of a privateer is here, who lately escaped from England, of the name of Johnson, and to him I have intrusted this letter, inclosed in one to Arthur Lee, whom I knew at Paris. I think in the summer, I shall with some other persons of the same sentiments as myself, make a trip to Paris to see him and Deane, &c. I think by his means we may effect tljfe correspondence, which I am happy to find you express a strong wish for, in the letter I received from you at the end of last summer. I know enough of him to desire in my letter, that he would take charge of such letters. Write to me, therefore, my invaluable friend, and don't have any apprehension, that any pohtical sentiments that you can express, will not accord with my own. You have given, in th§ forbearance of all political subjects in your former letter, the strongest instance of your friendship ; but you will not, for the future, be under the necessity of giving that proof^ Let me beg to offer my best respects to Mrs. Trapier, though I have not yet the pleasure of knowing her. Believe me, ever, W. W." NOTICE OF BOTTA'S HISTORY OF THE REVOLUTION. It is altogether incomprehensible to me, on what grounds a modern historian, (Botta) should have ad- vanced an opinion, that the French nation, wearied out by disastrous warfare, and compelled to accept the conditions of the Peace of Paris, concluded in 1763, had resorted to the means of address to excite the resentments of the Colonists against the Parent State, and that the Independence of the United States re- sulted, in a sreat measure, from the success of their intrigues. Emissaries, he boldly asserts, traversed the American continent, saying to all who would hear them : " To what end have the Americans lavished their blood, encountered so many dangers, and expended so much treasure in the late war, if the English supre- macy must continue to press upon them, with so much harshness and arrogance ? In recompense of such fidelity, of so much constancy, the English Govern- ment, perhaps, have moderated its prohibitions, have enfranchised commerce from trammels so prejudicial to the interests of America ? Perhaps the odious, and so much lamented laws against manufactures, have been repealed ? Perhaps the Americans no longer toil upon their lands, or traverse the immensity of the seas, exclusively to fill the purses of English Mer- chants ? Perhaps the Government of England have shown a disposition to abandon for ever, the project of 320 NOTICE OF BOTTA'S HISTORY parliamentary taxes ? Is it not, on the contrary, evi- dent, that with its forces and power, have increased its thirst of gold and the tyranny of its caprices ? Was not this admitted by Pitt himself, when he declared, the war being terminated, he should be at no loss to find the means of drawing a public revenue from Ame- rica, and of putting an end once for all to American resistance ? Has not England, at present, being mis- tress of Canada, a province recently French, and as such more patient of the yoke, has she not the means of imposing it on her colonists themselves, by the hands of her numerous soldiery ? Is it not time that the Americans no longer, in the state of infancy, should, at length, consider themselves a nation strong and formidable in itself ? Is it only for the utility of England, they have demonstrated in the late war what they are capable of achieving ? And by what right should a distant Island pretend to govern by its ca- prices, an immense and populous Continent ? How long must the partialities and the avarice of England be tolerated ? Did ever men, arms, riches, courage, climate invite to a more glorious enterprise ? Let the Americans then seize the occasion, with a mind wor- thy of themselves, now they have proved their arms, now that an enormous public debt overwhelms Eng- land, now that her name has become detestable to all ! America can place her confidence in foreign succours. What could be objected to a resolution so generous ? Consanguinity ? But have not the English hitherto treated the Colonists more as vassals, than as brothers ? Gratitude ? But, iiave not the English strangled it, under the pretensions of that mercantile and avaricious spirit which animates them ?" There surely never was a more gross tissue of ab- surdity and falsehood published. Hear the opinion of the veteran De Kalb. He frequently mentioned, that Ue had traversed the British Colonies at the insti- OF THE REVOLUTION. 321 gatlon of the French Court, in a concealed character, doubtless to sow the seeds of discontent, if he had found the minds of the people prepared to receive them; but, this was far from being the case ; for, when speaking of the war of the Revolution, he never failed to express his astonishment, how any govern- ment could have so blundered, as to have effaced the ardent and deep rooted affection, which to his know- ledge existed, on the part of the Colonies to Great Britain, previous to the existing rupture. A prefer- ence, he observed, equalled only by their antipathy to the French Nation, which was so powerful as to in- duce him to consider it, as he called it — instinctive. It cannot be possible, that opinion should waver be- twixt the accurate discernment of the one, and the chimerical dreams of the other. The statement of De Kalb, accounts for the total neglect of every pre- paration for war at the commencement of hostilities. They loved and had confidence in the affection of the Parent State ; nor believed it possible, that their rights would be so trampled upon, as to render an appeal to arms a necessary result from the dispute existing be- tween them. If, as Botta asserts, intrigue had been used with success to instigate revolt, the Americans must have been more than mad, not to have prepared the means to have met their adversaries on a footing of equality, and to have repelled force by force. But, it would be farcical to contend against an opinion, which the conviction of every man, acquainted with the events of the times, would declare, not only visionary, but decidedly false. One truth comes home to the recollection of every man, who lived in those days. The attachment to England was such, that to what- ever the Colonists wished to affix the stamp of excel- lence, the title of English was always given. The best of its kind, whether in the vegetable or animal kingdom, was always English, Nay, to such a length 41 322 NOTICE OF BOTTA'S HISTORY was the prejudice carried, that attachment to the soil of their nativity was weakened by acknowledging the superior claim of England to their warmest affections* To reside in England was the object of universal desire, the cherished hope of every bosom ; it stimulated to industry, it was the goal at which every individual in pussuit of fortune wished to arrive. It was con- sidered as the delightful haven, where peace and hap- piness were alone to be looked for. A parent send- ing his sons to Eaton or Westminster, would say, " I am sending my sons home for their education." If he himself should, at an after period, cross the Atlantic, though but for a summer season, to witness their pro- gress, he would say, " I am going home to visit my chil- dren, and so forth." Such language would ill accord with the sentiments of men engendering, according to Botta, resentment, and opinions hostile to Britain. Persuaded, then, that the Colonists bore the sincerest jittachment to the Parent State, and that from the reci- procity of affection, they looked for a speedy and per- manent reconciliation with it, I can correctly state, that in Carolina nothing was less thought of or desired, than Independence ; and moreover, that it was so little contemplated, that there was not in the possession of the Whig inhabitants throughout the State, a sufficiency of arms to supply a single Battalion. These observa- tions relative to the work of Botta, lead me to mention an occurrence very highly creditable to the parties con- cerned in its ascomplishment. The determination to oppose the unjust encroach- ments of Britain upon the liberties of the nation, once resolved on, it became an object of the first conse^ quence to obtain the means of effectual resistance. The King's Arsenal was kept in the attic story of the State-House, and contained, as it would appear by the proclamation of the Lieutenant Governor Bull, offering a reward for the apprehension of the individuals who OF THE REVOLUTION. 323 plundered it, about 800 stand of arms, besides 200 cutlasses, and other military stores. The possession of these essential implements of war, necessarily appear- ed in the eyes of the Committee of Safety of the utmost consequence. Secret meetings were accordingly held to digest a plan for the purpose, which was speedily adopted, and executed with the happiest success. The regulation of the entire business was entrusted to Messrs. Daniel Cannon, William Johnson, Anthony Toomer, Edward Weyman, and Daniel Stevens, and so admirably arranged and conducted throughout, that the whole of the arms were carried off, and safely de- posited for the future use of the citizens, before the Governor, or Armourer, had the slightest suspicion of the event. The alarm excited by this bold measure, at once opened the eyes of the Royal Officers to the peril of their situation. It decidedly accelerated the flight of the Governor Lord William Campbell. He could not mistake the motives of the seizure, nor believe that respect would be shown to his person, where so little regard was paid to his authority. He accordingly went on board the Cherokee ; and on the arrival of Sir Peter Parker, volunteered his services, fought gallantly, received a severe wound, and died of its consequences. INSTANCES OP THI? BENIGN INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. / Without the affectation of habitually indulging in f serious meditation, or contemplating with reverential awe the beneficence of the Deity — without presuming to boast a pious gratitude, to which I can have, when compared with men of more serious temper, but slight pretension, I conscientiously declare, that in no con- test that I ever heard, or read of, has the favour and protection of the Almighty, appeared to incline with such preference, and been manifested in such multi- plied occurrences, as in the war which separated the United States from the dominion of Great Britain. In thus expressing myself, I trust 1 shall not be con- sidered as apologizing for sentiments that I delight to cherish. The man, whose exalted worth not only does honour to his country, but to ihe human race, the immortal Washington, in the height of success, in the achievement of his most brilliant victories, never failed to express his perfect belief in the interposition of Pro- vidence. In his Public Despatches, his Private Cor- respondence, his General Orders, he spoke not of his own prowess, but of the goodness of God, the giver of Victory, who taught him to overcome difficulties INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE, &c. 325 that would, without his aid, have proved insurmout- able ; nor would ever assume to himself, honours that he regarded as due to the Almighty alone. I presume not to depend upon my own inferior and contracted ability, to support my opinions ; but rest them on the surer basis of incontrovertible facts — on events that cannot be denied, and if acknowledged, decisively conclusive. There is no man so impious, as to deny the Provi- dence of God over the works of his creation ; and where his power to rule is acknowledged, it cannot excite surprise, that his mercy and goodness should shield the oppressed from wrong, and cause the evils denounced against an injured and insulted people, to recoil on their enemies, and overwhelm them with dis- appointment and disgrace. I will select a few from the many instances that strike forcibly on my recol- lection. During the period that Boston was closely invested by the American forces, the news of the restrictions imposed on commerce, and of the resolution of the Parliament of Britain to employ Foreign Mercenaries to bring them under subjection, having reached the Colonists, Congress, to profit by the irritation univer- sally excited among the people, strenuously urged General Washington (then lately invested with the chief command) to brave all dangers, and to endeavour, by ev-ery possible exertion, to effect the expulsion of the enemy. It was at once perceived, by the discerning eye of the General, that to possess the heights of Dor- chester, was to secure the decided command of the city. Accordingly a large detachment of the army proceeded in profound silence, on the night of the 4th of March, 1775, and gaining possession of them before their movement was perceived, commenced, with in- defatigable exertion, to throw up entrenchments. Their labour, however, was not without interruption; 526 INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE the noise of the workmen was distinctly heard, and a heavy fire kept up by the shipping; but as they aimed at random, without a correct knowledge of the posi- tion of their enemy, with little effect. The morning's dawn showed to the besieged the danger of their situa- tion, should thf> works be completed, and it was neces- sary either to dislodge the Americans, or evacuate the city. General Howe decided for the attack. The day was mild and serene, not a cloud obscured the heavens. His troops were assembled, and distinctly perceived preparing to enter the boats which were to transport them to the Dorchester peninsula, when the tide ebbing, and wind rising suddenly, so as to blow with extreme violence, the passage was rendered im- practicable. Delay became necessary, and proved fatal to the hopes and designs of the British General, for a tempest followed the gale, and a heavy and incessant fall of rain for three days, increasing the difficulties of enterprise, he saw that the American General had given such perfection to his works, as to render them unassailable, with the slightest prospect of success. Compelled to renounce the attempt, he immediately abandoned the cit}^ After the disastrous battle on Long-Island, and the retreat of the American forces within their lines at Brooklyn, there can be but little doubt, but that these might have been carried by assault, had the British General profited by the ardour of his troops, elate with victory, and eager to reap new honours, to lead them to the attack. But, happily for America, he adopted the more prudent plan of seeking superiority by regular approaches, and of waiting the co-operation of the fleet. The situation of the Americans in their camp, was- critical in the extreme. A superior enemy in their front, their defences trivial and incomplete, their troops fatigued and discouraged, and the English fleet ready (though previously prevented by a North-East IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 327 wind) to enter the river, which would preclude the possibility of retreat, and leave them no alternative but to surrender. General Washington viewed the impending catastrophe, and at once determined to evacuate the position and withdraw to New-York. The passage was, in the first instance, prevented by a violent wind from the North-East, and the ebbing tide, which ran with too great violence to be encoun- tered, when fortunately it veered to the North-West, which rendered the passage perfectly secure. But, in a still more miraculous manner the interposition of Providence became manifest. A thick fog involved the whole of Long-Island in obscurity, covering the retreat of the American forces, while the air was per- fectly clear on the side of New-York, and nine thou- sand men, the artillery, baggage, camp equipage, and munitions of war, were brought off, without loss. The rising sun dispersing the fog, the British saw with astonishment, that the Americans had abandoned their position, and were already beyond the reach of pursuit.* On the Ilth of October, 1777, General Gates hav- ing received information, which he believed correct, that the main body of Burgoyne's army had marched off for Fort Edward, and that the rear g,uard only was left in camp, determined to advance with his entire force, and in half an hour to attack them. At the period the whole country was covered with a thick * A Clerical friend to whom I related this interesting fact, made the follow- ing reply : " The interposition of Providence in the affairs of nations, has been too often witnessed to be called in question. What you have now stated, will bring forcibly to the mind of every religious reader, the wonderful display of God's Providence to the Israelites in the passage of the Red Sea. ' The pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them : And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel ; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these.' But for the interpo- sition of this cloud of dai'kuess to the Egyptians, tliey would have overwhelmed the Israelites upon the sea-shore. And but for the Providential intervention of Xhefog upon Long-Island, which was a cioud resting on the eartli. the American army would have been destroyed, and the hopes of every patriot bosom extio- guished, perhaps for ever." 328 INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE fog. General Nixon's Brigade crossed the Fishkill Creek in advance. General Glover was on the point of following him, when he perceived near his column a British soldier, making across the stream with pre- cipitation. Concluding that he was a deserter, from whom interesting information might be obtained, he immediately ordered him to be brought forward for examination. Inquiring into particulars relative to the state and position of the British army, the soldier replied, " You will find them encamped as they have been for severaL days past." "But, have not large detachments been sent off to Fort Edward," said the General. *' No," replied the deserter ; " a small de- tachment left our camp a day or two ago, with the hope of reaching that post, but finding the passes on their route occupied by the Americans, returned ; and the whole afmy are now in camp." Glover promptly sent advice of this important communication to Nixon, urging his retreat ; and mounting the soldier behind an Aid-de-Canip. sent him to General Gates, who, hav- ing examined him, hurried away the Aid-de-Camp, the Adjutant-General, and others, to countermand his former orders, and prevent the attack. General Nixon, on receiving the message of Glover, immediately or- dered a retreat ; but, before he could recross the creek, the fog breaking away, the enemy's cannon opened on his rear, and killed many of his men. It was a critical moment, in which the probable fate of the army was at stake. A quarter of an hour longer, might have caused the ruin of the entire brigade, and given a turn to affairs that might have restored the fallen fortunes of the British army, and afforded them, if not the ability of progressing in their route to Al- bany, a safe retreat into Canada. General Burgoyne, in speaking in his narrative of the expedition under his command, of this event, says, *' The disposition of the enemy being to pass the IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 329 Fishkill in different columns, and to make their great effort on the plain, they must have formed under the fire of ail our park of artillery and musketry of the entrenched corps on the hill, and the musketry of the 20th Regiment, which was at easy distance, to be sup- ported by the Germans in front. Add to this would have been^ the advantage which, though always wished for, never attained, of a charge upon an open plain. I cannot, therefore, strfficiently lament the accident which prevented the enemy's design, (which so far ad- vanced, as actually to have passed the river with a column) as one of the most adverse strokes of fortune during the campaign." After the victory of the Cowpens, heroically gained, in contradiction of all calculation of probable results, General Morgan took immediate measures for retreat, and crossing the Broad River on the evening of the day of battle, strove by forced marches to gain the Catawba. Lord Cornwallis lost not a moment in pursuit. He knew the importance of striking the victor before he could gain the point at which he aim- ed, and so eagerly and perseveringly followed, that Morgan had scarcely crossed the river into North Ca- rolina, when the British army appeared on the opposite ])ank. This event happened on the 29th of Januar}^ 1781. A very heavy fall of rain during the night, ren- dered the Catawba unfordable. For two days the swell of the river continued. In the interim Morgan, availing himself of so fortunate an occurrence, sent off his prisoners, (in number nearly equal to his effective force) with the arms and stores which he had taken, and happily placed them in security. What must have been the result but for this Providential rain ? Inevita- ble defeat, and ruin to Morgan and his corps; and such a decided superiority gained over the portion of the army under the immediate command of General Greene, that safety could only have been obtained by 42 S30 INTERPOSITION OF PROVIDENCE; retreat into Virginia; and the. Carolinas and Georgia must necessarily have remained (at least for a much longer period) in the possession of the enemy. At the Yadkin, as at the Catawba, the same propi* tious fortune crowned the efforts of Morgan ; he passed at the ford, and in flats, without loss. The British appeared in sight as the rear of his force was landed, but a powerful fall of rain causing a sudden swell of the river, the cherished hopes of the British of annihi- lating his command, were again frustrated, and pursuit was abandoned. One hope still remained to Corn- wallis, and that was, by rapid movement to prevent the retreat of Greene into Virginia; and it must for ever redound to his credit, that no Commander ever made greater sacrifices, or subjected himself and his troops to severer privations, than he did to accomplish his object. His wagons, baggage, and every superfluous article that could impede celerity of movement, were sacrificed, and the ardour of pursuit maintained with a perseverance almost incredible. But against the fore- sight of Greene his efforts could little avail. He did, indeed, overtake, and harass the retiring American army ; but the rear was so well protected by the genius of Otho Williams, commanding a selected corps of cavalry and infantry, that the Dan was passed without any material interruption, and the army placed in per- fect security. At the siege of York-Town in Virginia, Lord Corn- wallis perceiving no possible chance of resisting, suc- cessfully, the combined forces of America and France, his advanced redoubts already captured — the greater part of his artillery dismounted — his lines of defence crumbled into his ditches — resolved to attempt the ac- complishment of an escape by crossing the river to the opposite bank ; or at all events of protracting surrender, and obtaining more favourable terms for the garrison. Already a part of the troops had reached Gloucester IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 331 point — a second division was embarked, when, in the critical moment of excited hope, when every thing appeared to favour his design, a storm of wind and rain arose, which at once disconcerted all his mea- sures. The boats were driven down the river, and the army, weakened and divided, left in extreme peril. To increase misfortune, with the return of day, a most tremendous and destructive fire was opened by the besiegers. The tempest, however, abated, and the boats returning, brought back the division of the army that had crossed to Gloucester, 'and Cornwallis, so long triumphant, was compelled to submit. I will bring forward one other instance. At the most distressful period of the war, General Washing- ton wrote to Congress, " That he was surrounded by secret foes, destitute of the means of detecting them, or of getting intelligence of the enemy's movements and designs. The army was in rags, had few or no blankets, and military stores were in the dregs. The troops reduced in numbers, must retreat, without the means of defence if attacked, and would probably disperse from the want of subsistence and clothing in an inclement season, too severe for nature to support. In a word, we have lived upon expedients till we can live no longer ; and it may truly be said, that the history of this war, is a history of false hopes and tem- porary devices, instead of system and oeconomy, which results from it." All business was, in consequence, suspended in Congress, and dismay was universal, since no supplies of the requisitions demanded could be provided. Mr. Robert Morris, to whom the United States is more indebted for their prosperity and happiness, than to any other individual, with the exception of General Washington, overcome by his feelings, quitted the Hall with a mind completely depressed, without a present hope, or cheering expectation of 532 INTERPOSITIOxN OF PROVIDENCE future prosperity. On entering his Counting- House, he received the welcome intelligence, that a ship which he had despaired of, had, at that moment, arrived at the wharf, with a full cargo of all the munitions of war, and of soldiers' clothing. He returned to Con- gress almost breathless with joy, and announced the exhilarating good news. Nor did propitious fortune end here. Accidentally meeting with a worthy Qua- ker, who had wealth at command, and a hearty well- wisher to the American cause, although from his re- ligious principles averse to war and fighting, he thought it no departure from the strict line of propriety, to endeavour, by every exertion, to awaken his sympathy and obtain his assistance. Assuming, therefore, an expression of countenance indicative of the most poig- nant anguish and deep despair, he was passing him in silence, when the benevolent Quaker, w^ho had criti- cally observed him, and marked the agitation of his mind, feelingly said, " Robert, I fear there is bad news." The reply was, '* Yes, very bad ; I am under the most helpless embarrassment for the want of some hard money." *' How much would relieve thy diffi- culties, Robert ?" The sum was mentioned. '* But 1 could only give my private engagement in a note, which I would sacredly pledge my honour to repay," rejoined Mr. Morris. " Cease thy sorrows, then, Ro- bert ; thou shalt have the money in confidence of thy silence on the subject, as it regards me." The specie was procured, immediately remitted to General Wash- ington, and saved the army. I should find no difficulty in producing many other, and equally satisfactory proofs of the opinion advanced, but shall content myself with asking — Is it possible, that so many occurrences should be considered as casualties depending altogetiier on chance ? Do they not rather appear as the orderings of the beneficent Ruler of the Universe, extending his protecting arm IN AMERICAN AFFAIRS. 333 over a people whom he cherished, and checking the wild and inordinate ambition of the oppressor ? It is the light in which it ought to be viewed, that the gra- titude of the nation should be proportioned to the blessings bestowed on it, and that the pride of success restrained within just limits, nor overstepping the bounds of moderation, the victors in the contest may, with humility, exclaim, " Not unto us, but unto the powerful protection of an all wise and beneficent God, are such providential escapes and unexampled suc- cesses to be attributed." ROBERT MORRIS. Having but slightly mentioned this distinguished patriot, both justice and gratitude require that I should speak more particularly of his extraordinary powers iri the department of Finance ; the extent of his influence in the commercial relations of the nation, both at home and abroad, and successful exertions in the acccmplish- nient of its independence ; more especially, as it is ac- knowledged, that to the zeal and ability of Washington alone, were superior honours due. My information in all that relates to this distinguished citizen, is derived, in a great measure, from one of the most enlightened and active patriots of our Revolution, Judge Peters ; but better authority could not be adduced, since, placed for many years at the head of the Board of War, he possessed the most perfect knowledge of every military transaction, and of the influence of Mr. Morris, in giving eflicacy to enterprise. Independent of which, that from personal friendship and constant co-opera- tion, in labouring for the nation's glory, there appeared 334 MORRIS. but one object and one mind betwixt them. The Anecdote which follows is from his pen; it would be an injustice on my part to attempt the alteration of a single sentence, a single word. "In 1779, or 1780, two of the most distressing years of the war, General Washington wrote to me a most alarming account of the prostrate condition of the military stores, and enjoining my immediate exertions to supply deficiencies. There were no musket cartridges but those in the men's boxes, and they w^ere wet: of course, if attacked, a retreat or a rout was inevitable. We (the Board of War) had exhausted all the lead accessible to us, having caused even the spouts of houses to be melted, and had offered, abortively, the equivalent in paper of two shillings specie per pound for lead. I went in the evening of the day in which I received this letter, to a splendid entertainment given by Don Mirailles, the Spanish Minister. My heart was sad, but I had the fa- culty of brightening my countenance even under gloomy disasters, yet it seems then not sufficiently adroitly. Mr. Morris, who was one of the guests, and knew me ^well, discovered some casual traits of depression. He accosted me in his usual blunt and disengaged manner. ' I see some clouds passing across the sunny counte- nance you assume — what is the matter?' After some hesitation I showed him the General's letter, which I had brought from the office with the intention of placing it at home in a private cabinet. He played with my anxiety, which he did not relieve for some time. At length, however, with great and sincere de- light, he called me aside, and told me that the Holker privateer had just arrived at his wharf with ninety tons of lead, which she had brought as ballast. It had been landed at Martinique, and stone ballast had supplied its place, but this had been put on shore and the lead again taken in. * You shall have my half of this for- MORRIS. 335 tunate supply; there are the owners of the other half, '^ (indicating gentlemen in the apartment.) * Yes, but I am already under heavy personal engagements, as guarantee for the Department, to those and other gen- tlemen.' ' Well,' rejoined Mr. Morris, ' they will take your assumption with my guaranty.' I instantly, on these terms, secured the lead, left the entertainment, sent for the proper officers, and set more than one hun- dred people to work through the night. Before morn- ing a supply of cartridges was ready, and sent oiF to the army. " I could relate many more such occurrences. Thus^ did our affairs succeed. * Per varios casus, per tot dis- crimina rerum.^ And these discrimina rerum occurred so often, that we had frequently occasion feelingly to exclaim, * Quod optanti divum promiKere nemo, * Anserat — Forsenf attulit ullro.' — VirCfIL." But at once to give the stamp of excellence to his zeal and decided influence in the most momentous concerns of the nation, I will, from the same authority, show in how great a measure his activity decided the fate of Cornwallis. " It may not be generally known, but it is an incon- trovertible fact, that the plan of the campaign for the year 1781, as agreed upon by General Washington and Admiral De Grasse, was to aim at the reduction of New- York, and that the Southern enterprise was never contemplated until, unexpectedly, and to his extreme surprise. General Washington (by the French Admiral's breaking his engagements to come into New- York Bay, and announcing his intention, through the Admiral commanding the squadron at Rhode-Island, to enter and remain, for a few weeks, in the Chesa- peake) was obliged to change the whole plan of opera- tions ; which, from the powerfiil resources of his mind, 336 MORRIS. he planned and performed in a sudden and masterly manner. An account has been published, by which it appears that the Count Rochambeau claimed the credit of planning the enterprise a year before it was put in execution. A military character who had rendered such important services to our country as were, by universal consent, attributed to him, needed no bor- rowed plume. He avows his having advised Count De Grasse not to venture into New-York Bay. He should, (had he acted consistently with his duty) with candour, and in due season, have made this communication to General Washington; whereas, the first intimation of a change of the original plan, was the French Admi- ral's letter from Rhode- Island, which the General put into my hands a few hours after he had received it, with strong expressions of surprise and resentment. Assuredly, at this period, the expedition to the South- ward had never been thought of; but as Count Rocham- beau's countervailing advice had been attended with successful consequences, he adroitly takes advantage of this good fortune and turns, an otherwise unjustifiable interference, into personal merit. I was sent by Con- gress, under the belief that New- York was the object, to consult with General Washington, on the supplies ne- cessary for the attack. But, the apprehension ex- pressed by Count de Grasse, of danger to his heavy ships, should they enter the Bay, and the avowal of his intention to sail for the Chesapeake, put at once an end to deliberation on the subject. A new object was now to be sought for, on which the co-operation of the allies might be employed with effect. I was present when the Southern enterprise was resolved on, (claiming no merit or agency in the military part of it) and superintended the provision of every thing required by the General, for the operation. From seventy to eighty pieces of battering cannon, and one hundred of field artillery, were completely fitted and furnished MORRIS. 337 with attirail and ammunition, although, when I re- turned from camp to Philadelphia, there was not a field carriage put together, and but a small quantity of fixed ammunition in our Magazines. The train was progressively sent on in three or four weeks, to the great honour of the officers and men employed in this meritorious service. All this, together with the expense of provision for, and pay of the troops, was accom- jjlished on the personal credit of Mr. Robert Morris, who issued his notes to the amount of one million four hundred thousan^idollars, which ivere finally all paid. Assistance was furnished by Virginia and other States, from the merit whereof I mean not to detract. But, as there v/as no money in the chest of the War Office, and the Treasury of the United States empty, the ex- pedition never could have been operative and brought to a successful issue, had not, most fortunately, Mr. Morris' credit, superior exertions, and management, supplied the indispensable si7ie qua non, the funds necessary to give effect to exertion." Such important services rendered to his country, while they entitled Mr. Morris to the admiration, should, at the same time, have secured him some dis- tinguished testimony of public gratitude. He richly merited, and ought to have enjoyed in old age, the un- interrupted blessings of peace and happiness. But, at the conclusion of the war, the propitious fortunes that seemed attendant on all his prior enterprises, forsook him. He engaged in deep speculation, to the entire ruin of his pecuniary concerns. He had husbanded, and with success, the funds of the public, but dissi- pated his own. Penury and wretchedness closed the scene of life. The memory of a man of such dis- tinguished utility cannot be lost; and while the recol- lection of his multiplied services are deeply engraven on the tablet of every patriotic heart, I fondly hope, that the day is not distant, when some public monu- V3 338 MORRIS. ment, recording the most momentous occurrences of his life, and characteristic of national feeling and gra- titude, may mark the spot where rest the remains of Robert Morris, To the instances given by Judge Peters, of the happy arrival of supplies for the army, at the moment that they were most needed, I would add another oc- currence derived from the same authority. " On our entering Philadelphia, in June 1778^ after the evacu- ation by the British troops, we were hard pressed for ammunition. We caused the whole city to be ran- sacked in search of cartridge paper. At length, I thought of the garrets, &c. of old Printing Offices. In that once occupied as a lumber room by Dr. Franklin, when a printer, a vast collection was discovered. — Among the mass was more than a cart body load of Sermons on Defensive War, preached by a famous Gilbert Tenant, during an old British and French war, to rouse the Colonists to indispensable exertion. These appropriate manifestoes were instantly em- ployed as cases for musket cartridges, rapidly sent to the army, came most opportunely, and were fired away at the battle of Monmouth against our retiring foe. TIMOTHY PICKERING. Where the shafts of malevolence have been directed against a patriot who never harboured a thought, nor cherished a principle inconsistent with the honour and interests of his country, though they fail to injure, they do not the less offend. It is most grateful, therefore, PICKERING. 339 to me to speak of the services of a patriot, who, though not always a successful candidate for public favour, never ceased to deserve it. Thoroughly approving the opinions of Judge Peters, I will give them in his own words. Speaking of Colonel Pickering, he says, — " He is too well known to need any eulogium from me. He was one of the first Commissioners of the Board of War ; and a most diligent and able co-adjutor we had in him, during eighteen months, when he was called to the field, first as Adjutant, then as Quarter-Master General. I have known him intimately forty-five years. A man of more firmness and sterling integrity never lived. Yet he has been persecuted with shame- less obloquy. His present situation gives a practical rebutter to some gross aspersions. He does not claim a title to the brilliant fame of Cincinnatus, but he emu-* lates his virtues in retirement; and now, in the seven- ty-seventh year of his life, personally labours on a farm of very moderate extent, in his native State, where his merits are best known and justly appreciated. This moderate establishment he was enabled to purchase by the grateful and generous assistance of an association of liberal fellow-citizens, who bought his investment of title to his military certificates in forest lands in Pennsylvania, with a view of serving him, and not themselves. And, to their immortal honour, those lands have been transferred, gratuitously, to the widow and orphans of the late eminently distinguished and poignantly lamented General Hamilton, another of our Revolutionary patriots, who reaped but a pittance of the fruits, though he led the way in sowing and ma- turing the harvest." MQ STEUBEN> BARON STEUBEN. It is with peculiar delight that I bring into view the services of this exceHent soldier and inestimable man, conscientiously believing, that after the Generals Wash- ington and Greene, and the Financier, Robert Morris, there was no individual in the United States, who, in equal degree, contributed to the victories of our armies, and the establishment of our Independence. It was my good fortune, shortly after the conclusion of the war, to be presented to Baron Steuben, an officer who had served in the armies of the United States with the highest distinction. To give a just idea of his merit, it is necessary to state his previous situation in Europe, and the sacrifices which attended his devotion to the cause of Liberty. Most of the foreigners who had engaged in the service of America, were men of desperate fortunes, ambitious to acquire honour and emolument. They had possessed but in- ferior grade in the armies in which they had served, yet, to a people totally unacquainted with the art of war, their knowledge was of importance, and on all occasions rewarded with flattering promotion. It was far otherwise w ith Baron Steuben. At the commence- ment of our contest with Great Britain he was a Lieu- tenant General in the circle of the German Empire, called Swabia, and commanded in chief the forces of the Prince of Beven. He was also a Canon of the Church, and Aid-de-Camp to the King of Prussia, with a revenue from these offices amounting to nearly six hundred pounds sterling per annum. By entering into the service of the United States his rank as a sol- dier w^as dimished, and expectation of bettering his for- tunes for ever destroyed. The regulations of Congress (except in the case of the Commander in Chief) admit- STEUBEN. 341 ted of no rank superior to that of Major General, and the poverty and distress of the country, destroyed every hope of pecuniary advantage. Yet, actuated by mo- tives superior to ambition and self-interest, offering his services even without pay, he, by unwearied industry, activity, and perseverance, called into service the army that gave liberty to America. A letter received from Judge Peters, of Philadelphia, to whose politeness 1 am f)roud to acknowledge myself peculiarly indebted, supplying many of the most interesting Anecdotes of my collection, says, — " Your mentioning the name of Baron Steuben recalls to my memory a valued friend, whose merits have never been duly appreciated. Our army was but a meritorious irregular band before his creation of discipline. His Department and personal conduct were particularly under my observation. One fact, to prove his usefulness, will go further than a thousand words. In the estimates of the War Office, we always allowed five thousand muskets beyond the actual numbers of our muster of the whole army. It was, in early times, never sufficient to guard against the waste and misapplication that occurred. In the last inspection return of the Main Army, before I left the War Department, Baron Steuben being then In- spector General, only three muskets were deficient, and those accounted for." A friend, on the accuracy of whose statements I can confidently rely, told me that it could not easily be conceived to what severe trial the patience of the Baron was put in his first efforts to establish a regular system of discipline; and that, on one occasion, having ex- hausted all his German and French oaths, he vocife- rated to his Aid-de-Camp, Major Walker, *' Vten Walker — vien mon hon ami. Curse — God damn de gancherie of dese badants, je ne puis pins, I can curse ^dem no more.'''' 342 STEUBEN. In private life his virtues were exalted ; and it would be difficult to determine, whether he most excites our admiration for zeal and activity as a patriot and sol- dier, or tenderness and humanity as a man. As I hold his character in hig;h veneration, I have great delight in relating an Anecdote which I received from General Walter Stewart ; the truth of which may confidently be relied on. After the capture of York-Town, the superior officers of the allied army, vied with each other in acts of civility and attention to the captive Britons. Lord Cornwallis and his family were par- ticularly distinguished. Entertainments were given in succession by all the Major Generals, with the excep- tion of Baron Sl^uben. He alone withheld an invi- tation, not from a wish to be particular, nor that his heart was closed to the attentions due to misfortune ! His soul was superior to prejudice ; and, as a soldier, he tenderly sympathized in their fate, while poverty denied the means of displaying that liberality towards them, which had been shown by others. Such was his situation, when calling on Colonel Stewart, and informing him of his intention to entertain the British Commander in Chief, he requested, that he would advance him a sum of money as the price of his favour- ite charger. " 'Tis a good beast," said the Baron, ** and has proved a faithful servant through all the dan- ger^ of the war ; but, though painful to my heart, we must part." Colonel Stewart, to prevent a step that he knew must be attended with great loss, and still greater inconvenience, immediately tendered his purse, recommending, should the sum it contained prove in- sufficient, the sale or pledge of his watch. " My dear friend," said the Baron, *' 'tis already sold. Poor N. was sick and wanted necessaries. He is a brave fel- low, and possesses the best of hearts. The trifle it brought is set apart for his use. My horse must go, so no more, I beseech you, to turn me from my pur- STEUBEN. 343 pose. I am a Major General in the service of the United States, and my private convenience must not be put in the scale with the duty, which my rank calls upon me imperiously to perform." The liberal disposition of Baron Steuben, afforded to his Aid-de-Camp, Major North, an opportunity of making a peculiarly happy repartee. On the summit of a hill, on the farm occupied by the Baron, a monument was erected to the memory of a certain Mr. Provost, who, on account of his constant command of cash, had been styled, when living. Ready Money Provost, A gentleman observing, that in the event of death, the Baron would be at no loss for a snug place of inter- ment. Major North replied, "Then, Sir, his disposition must alter with his state, for in life he will never tolerate the idea of laying by ready money." Though poor himself, the Baron had a number of pensioners. Of one of these I must relate an inte- resting Anecdote. When Arnold apostatized and at- tached himself to the British Standard, Baron Steu- ben, at that period Inspector General of the army, to show his perfect abhorrence of the traitor, commanded, that every soldier who bore the name should change it, or be immediately dismissed the service. Some days after, finding a soldier of Connecticut, who had paid no attention to the mandate, he insisted that he should instantaneously be expelled from the ranks. *' 1 am no traitor, my worthy General," said the sol- dier, " and will willingly renounce a name that the perfidy of a scoundrel has for ever tarnished, if allowed to assume one, which is dear to ev^ry American soldier. Let me be Steuben, and be assured that I will never disgrace you." " Willingly, my worthy fellow," re- plied the Baron. '' Be henceforth Steuben, and add to the glory of a name that has already acquired lustre by the partial adoption of a brave man." Tiie soldier, at the conclusion of the war, kept a tavern in New- 344 STEUBEN. Eiiglaud, exhibiting a representation of his patron as a sign ; and as long as the Baron lived, received a pension from him as a reward for his partial attach- ment. The hospitality of Baron Steuben was unbounded. Introduced at his villa by a friend, to whose exertions in Congress he considered himself peculiarly indebted for a pension settled on him for life, he treated me with marked attention ; and at the moment of my departure said with great politeness, (Sunday being the day on which he kept open table for his friends,) " Souvenez vons, mon jeune ami., pendant voire sejour a New- York, que le Dimanche, est consacre a Dieu et a Steu- hen^ Dining with him shortly after the resignation of Mr. Robert Morris, as Financier of the United States, the cause of which appeared inexplicable to the company present, " To me," said Baron Steuben, *' there ap- pears no mystery. I will illustrate my sentiments by a simple narrative. When I was about to quit Paris to embark for the United States, the better to insure comfort when in camp, I judged it of importance to engage in my service a cook of celebrity. The Ame- rican army was posted at Valley Forge, when I joined it. Arrived at my quarters, a wagoner presented him- self, saying that he was directed to attach himself to niy train, and obey my orders. Commissaries arriving, furnished a supply of beef and bread, and retired. My cook looked around him for utensils, indispensable, in his opinion, for preparing a meal, and finding none, in an agony of despair, applied to the wagoner for advice. ' We cook our meat,' replied he, ' by hang- ing it up by a string, and turning it before a good fire till sufficiently roasted.' The next day — and still another passed, without material change. The Com- missary made his deposit. My cook showed the strongest indications of uaeasincss by shrugs and heavy STEUBEN. 545 sighing; but, with the exception of a few oaths, spoke not a word of complaint. His patience, however, was completly exhausted ; lie requested an audience, and demanded his dismission. * Under happier circum- stances, mon General,' said he, * it would be my ambition to serve you, but here I have no chance of showing my talents, and I think myself obliged, in honour, to save you expense, since your wagoner is just as able to turn the string as I am.' * Believe me, gentlemen,' continued the Baron, ' the Treasury of America is, at present, just as empty as my kitchen was at Valley Forge; and Mr. Morris wisely retires, thinking it of very little consequence ivho turns the string, ^ " It is a gratification to add, that as a tribute to his merit, and reward for his important services, Congress, at the conclusion of the war, settled on him a pension of two thousand dollars per annum for life; and that the State of New-York gave him, as a donation, a very fine tract of country. General Washington, who was well acquainted with his liberality, said, on tiiis occasion, to a friend, who repeated it to me,- — " 1 re- joice that Congress have given to so excellent a patriot an independency, and by an annuity; for had they be- stowed a specific sum, were it ten times the amount, the generous heart of Steuben would keep him poor, and he would, in all probability, die a beggar." GENERAL GATES. Although blame must ever attach to General Gates, for iiis ungenerous effort to rise to supreme command, by effecting the downfall of his superior, en- couraging intrigue, and countenancing disaffection the 44 ^6 GATES. more readily to accomplish it. Although the world, too apt to censure from appearances, have fixed the stigma of precipitancy upon his conduct, which led him with blind confidence in the superiority of his own judgment and military talent, to mock the admonition of General Charles Lee, warning him to avoid the chance of exchanging " The Laurel already gained, for a wreath of Willow ;" and would lead us, by its cen- sures, to blame with asperity, his pointed neglect of the prudential advice of De Kalb — " Not too hastily to risk a battle." Yet, let us do justice, even when compelled to blame. I have, from the information of an officer high in his confidence, whose word is truth, just cause to believe, that it was not his intention to risk a battle when compelled by Cornwallis to engage uear Camden. His avowed object was to choose a position in the vicinity of Lord Rawdon, and to fortify it, so that if the British General ventured to attack him, he would be compelled to do it at considerable hazard. He frankly declared, that he was not suffi- ciently strong in Continental force to risk an engage- ment. And to increase the strength of the irregular army, Colonel Harrington, an officer of great influence, was ordered into North-Carolina, and Colonel Marion detached to the lower Pedee, to rouse as many effec- tive men to arm in his favour as possible. In confir- mation of this statement, the Colonels Porterfield and Senff were actually sent forward to reconnoitre, and fixed upon a position behind Granny Creek, which w^as esteemed altogether fitted to the General's pur- poses, having the creek in front, a deep and difficult swamp on the right, and commanding grounds on the left, which, strengthened by a redoubt and abbatis, would give security from attack. Had Lord Rawdon remained in command, his schemes might have been crowned with success, as that Nobleman had shown no disposition to meet him ; but Lord Cornwallis / GATES. 347 arrived, whose enterprising spirit at once discerned the danger of delay, and fixed his determination to fight. Remaining, therefore, but one night in Camden, he inarched forward to battle, justifying the wisdom of his measures by the success which attended them. Gates was actually on his march to occupy the position fixed on, when met by his vigilant enemy, and com- pelled to risk, in an unguarded moment, an action, for which he was unprepared, and of which the results were more disastrous than any battle fought during the progress of the Revolution. I would not attempt to i)alliate his faults when they call for censure, and freely blame his disregard to the reiterated solicitations of the Colonels White and Washington, to give the sanction of his name and authority to recruit the ca- valry ; a measure, had it been adopted, that might have given an entire change to the current of success, and at all events have saved the lives of hundreds, who fell under the merciless sabres of Tarleton's Legionary Cavalry. Lieutenant Colonel Lee, the accuracy of whose judgment is undeniable, thus adverts to this fatal and mistaken policy. " White and Washington, who, after the disasters of Monk's Corner and Lenud's, had retired into North Carolina with the view of recruiting their regiments, earnestly solicited General Gates to invigorate their efforts by the aid of his authority, so as to enable them to advance with him to the theatre of action. Gates paid no attention to this proper request, and thus de- prived himself of the most operative corps belonging to the Southern army. Although unfortunate, these regi- ments had displayed undaunted courage, and had been taught in the school of adversity, that knowledge which actual service only can bestow. It is probable, that this injurious indifference on the part of the Ame- rican commander, resulted from his recurrence to the mS GATEi^. campaign of 1777, when a British army surrendered to him unaided by cavalry; leading him to conclude that Armand's corps, already with him, gave an adequate portion of this species of force. Fatal mistake! It is not improbable that the closeness and ruggedness of the country in which he had been so triumphant, did render the aid of horse less material, but the moment he threw his eyes upon the plains of the Carolinas, the moment he saw their dispersed settlements adding difficulty to (liiiiculty in the procurement of intelligence and provisions ; knowing too, as he did, that the enemy had not only a respectable body of Dragoons, but that it had been used without intermission, and with much effect, it would seem that a discriminating mind must have been led to acquiesce in the wish suggested by (he two officers of horse. To the neglect of this salu- tary proposition may, with reason, be attributed the heavy disaster soon after experienced. In no country in the world are the services of cavalry more to be de- sired, than in that which was committed to the care of Major General Gates, and how it was possible for an officer of his experience to have been regardless of this powerful auxiliary, remains inexplicable. Calcu- lating proudly on the weight of his name, he appears to have slighted the prerequisites to victory, and to have hurried on to the field of battle with the im- petuosity of youth ; a memorable instance of the cer- tain destruction which awaits the soldier who does not know how to estimate prosperity. If good fortune begets presumption instead of increasing circumspec- tion and diligence, it is the due precursor of deep and bitter adversity." Yet for the gallantry and good conduct displayed in his conflicts with Burgoyne, which caused the surren- der of an entire British army, and his indefatigable industry in bringing under control, the refractory spirit impatient of subordination, manifested in every departs GATES. 349 ment of the army before Boston, he is certainly entitled to the gratitude and applause of his country. With particular pleasure, therefore, we view the magnani- mous conduct of the Legislature of Virginia, who sensible that '' 'Tis cruelty to wound a falling man." regardless of recent misfortunes, and alone remember- ing the important services performed by him in happier days, as he passed through the city in which they were in session, presented, by a select Committee, the following complimentary resolution : <. " IN THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES. " Richmond, December 2Stkj 1780. " Resolved, That a Committee of four be appointed to wait upo^ Major General Gates, and to assure him of the high regard and esteem of this House ; that the remembrance of his former services cannot be obhterated by any reverse of fortune ; but that this House, ever mindful of his great merit, will omit no opportunity of testify- ing to the world, the gratitude, which, as a member of the American Union, the country owes him in his military character.'' I have already stated, that great blame was attached to his ambitious project of supplanting the illustrious leader of our armies in command. Evidence may be wanting to prove him a principal in this iniquitous conspiracy; but he may justly be said to have encou- raged what he did not endeavour to prevent. Yet in the hour of affliction, contrition fell heavy on his heart, and the honourable manner in which he evinced it, will, I fondly hope, cause his dereliction of duty in the first instance, to be buried in endless oblivion. I received the following highly interesting Anecdote from Dr. William Read, at the period of its occur- 350 GATES. rence, superintending the Hospital Department at Hillsborough : " Having occasion to call on General Gates, relative to the business of the Department under my immediate charge, I found him traversing the apartment which he occupied, under the influence of high excitement; his agitation was excessive — every feature of his counte- nance, every gesture betrayed it. Official despatches, informing him that he w^as superseded, and that the command of the Southern Army had been transferred to General Greene, had just been received and perused by him. His countenance, however, betrayed no ex- pression of irritation or resentment; it was sensibility alone that caused his emotion. An open letter which he held in his hand, was often raised to his lips, and kissed with devotion, while the exclamation repeatedly escaped them — ' Great man!' ' Noble, generous pro- cedure!' When the tumult of his mind had subsided, and his thoughts found utterance, he, with strong ex- pression of feeling, exclaimed — ' I have received this day a communication from the Commander in Chief, which has conveyed more consolation to my bosom, more ineffable delight to my heart, than I had believed it possible for it ever to have felt again. With affec- tionate tenderness he sympathises with me in my domestic misfortunes, and condoles with me on the loss I have sustained by the recent death of an only son ; and then, with peculiar delicacy, lamenting my misfortune in battle, assures me, that his confidence in my zeal and capacity is so little impaired, that the command of the right wing of the army will be bestow- ed on me as soon as I can make it convenient to join him.'" CONWAY. 351 GENERAL CONWAY. There was no officer in the service who engaged with greater zeal in the intrigue, by which it was de- signed to deprive General Washington of command, and place General Gates at the head of the army, than General Conway. Intrigue was the cherished sphere of his actions ; ambition the predominant passion of his heart; and he appeared but little scrupulous as to the means employed, while he successfully pursued his plans for its indulgence. His aim was to vilify, and by the degradation of others to advance his own fortunes.. We accordingly find him incessantly harp- ing on the incapacity of the Commander in Chief to direct the operations of the army ; and denouncing not only the ignorance of military tactics, displayed by the leaders of particular corps, but the total want of know- ledge in the army generally, of the exercises the most essential to its perfection. Nor were his censures without effect. He gained proselytes in Congress, and through their influence i)romotion. But, when convinced of the injustice of his conduct, and awed by the superior virtue and talents of General Washing- ten, he threw aside the veil of prejudice that had obscured perception. The handsome manner in which he made his apology, does him high honour, and ought to be recorded. Severely wounded in a duel with General Cadwal- lader, and believing death inevitable, he thus addressed General Washington : " Philadelphia, Fehniary 2Sd, 1778. « Sir, " I find myself just able to hold my pen during a few minutes, and take this opportunity of expressing my sincere grief for having done, written, or said any thing disagreeabl*^ to your Excellency. 352 C01>JWAY, My career will soon be over ; therefore, justice and truth prompt liie to declare my last sentiments. You are in my eyes the great and good man. May you long enjoy the love, esteem, and veneration of these States, whose liberties you have asserted by your virtues. " I am, with the greatest respect, " Your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant, "PH. CONWAY. ^^ His Excellency General Washington." GENERAL CHARLES LEE. Another and more virulent enemy, with unremitted industry sought to destroy the fair and unspotted fame of the Commander in Chief, and to impress upon the minds of the people an opinion, not only that he was unequal to the duty of conducting, successfully, the enterprises of the army he commanded, but that the jealousy of his disposition induced him to view with jaundiced eyes the claims to merit of military men whom he knew to be his superiors in talent, and to leave no efforts unessayed to accomplished their ruin. " What pow'r so strong " Can tie the gall up in the slandTOus tongue." — Shaespeare.' There can be no misapprehension relative to the in- dividual alluded to. Previous to his captivity 1 am ready to allow , that General Lee rendered the most essential service to America. He engaged in her cause, and in defence of her violated rights, with ardent en- thusiasm, and, both by precept and example, gave en- couragement to firm and intrepid resistance. But captivity appears to have broken down his manly si)irit, and in the place of that bold, frank, and open LEE. 353 independency of character, by which he had been dis- tinguished, to have made him the slave of the most malignant and degrading passions, and to have given birth to a caiition and timidity inconsistent with his natural disposition, and -altogether unbecoming a cham- pion for the emancipation of an oi)pressed nation. He cordially hated the British ; but he appeared for the first time, to have a most exalted opinion of their spirit for enterprise. Made a prisoner himself, by a shameful carelessness, and exposuse of his person to captivity, he was constantly looking forward for some new effort of prowess that would increase their repu- tation for daring achievement. He made compariscms betwixt the Giants (for so he styled the British) and our own soldiers, (the Pigmies) which passed not without reproof. He called on Congress, (then sitting at York, in Pennsylvania,) to order a survey of the Susque- hanna, seventy-eight miles from the British Lines, in order to fortify a river that could not be fortified, and where neither prudence nor necessity required that it should be done. With regard to his conduct at the battle of Mon- mouth, I shall only say, (acquitting him thoroughly of the infamous motives that have been alleged against him) that had lie obeyed orders, and made a better use of the picked troops of the Line immediately under his Command, a most decisive victory might have been gained, and probably the war itself, promptly and decidedly, brought to a conclusion. From this moment, both in his conversations and his writings, the great aim of his life appears to have been to lessen the repu- tation of the Commander in Chief in public estimation. But public opinion, and that of the men who were more particularly acquainted with facts and circum- stances, consigned not only a pamphlet which he pub- lished, but his verbal allegations also, to the contempt, and I might add, detestation of all good citizens. Tkf 45 iJ54 LEE. best refutation that can be given to his Calumnies will be found in the extract of a letter, not intended by the writer for publicity, which I have been favoured with from one of our nriost distinguished patriots, which shows the unadorned, genuine impulses of a heart and mind devoted to the service of his country, without the alloy of selfish vain-glorious views, or sordid pursuits. It was written to a confidential friend, and dated -' West-Point, July 29th, 1779. ^ Dear Sir, " I have a pleasure in acknowledging the receipt of yout obliging favour of the 15th instant, and in finding by it, tliat the au- thor of the Queries, political and military, has had no great cause to exult in the favourable reception of them by the public. Without a clue, I should have been at no loss to trace the malevolent writer ; but I have seen a history of the transaction, and felt a pleasure, min- gled with pain, at the narration. '" To stand well in the estimation of one's country, is a happiness that no rational creature can be insensible of. To be pursued, first under the mask of friendship, and when disguise would suit no longer, as an open calumniator, with gross misrepresentation, and self-hiown falsehoods, carries an alloy which no temper can bear with perfect composure. " The motives which actuate this gentleman, are better understood by himself than me. If he can produce a single instance in which 1 have mentioned his name, (after his trial commenced) where it was in my power to avoid it ; aiid when it was not, where I have done it with the smallest degree of acrimony or disrespect, I will consent, that tlie world shall view my character in as disreputable a light as he wishes to place it. What cause there is, then, for such a profu- sion of venom, as he is emitting upon all occasions — unless by an act of public duty, in bringing him to trial at his own solicitation, I have disappointed him and raised his ire — or conceiving, that in propor- tion as he can darken the shades of my character, he illuminates his own. W^hether these, I say, or motives yet more dark and hidden, LKE. 355 govern him, I shall not undertake to decide ; nor have I time to in- quire into them at present. <• If I had ever assumed the character of a military genius, and the oilicer of experience — if under these false colours I had solicited the command I was honoured with — or if, after my appointment, 1 had presumptuously driven on, under tlie sole guidance of my own judgment and selfwill — and misfortunes, the result of obstinacy and misconduct, not of necessity had followed, I should nave thought myself a proper object for the lash, not only of /»>, but the pen of every other writer, and a fit subject of public resentment. But, when it is well known, that the command was in a manner forced upon me, — that I accepted it with the utmost diffidence, from a consciousness that it » required greater abilities, and more experience than I pos^ sessed, to conduct a great military machine, embarrassed as I knew our's must be, by a variety of complex circumstances, and as it were but little better than a mere chaos — and when nothing more was promised, on my part, than has been most inviolably performed, it is rather grating to pass over in silence, charges which may impress the uninformed, though others know that these charges have neither rea- son nor truth to support them : and that a simple narration of tacts would defeat all his assertions, notwithstanding they are made with an effrontery which few men do, and for the honour of human nature, ought to possess. *' If this gentleman is envious of my station, and conceives that 1 stand in his way to preferment, I can assure him, in most solemn terms, that the first wish of my soul is, to return to that peaceful retirement, and domestic ease and happiness, from whence I came. To this end all my labours have been directed ; and for this purpose have I been more than four years a perfect slave, endeavouring, under as many embarrassing circumstances as ever fell to any nian's lot to encounter j and as pure motives as any man was ever influenced by. to promote the cause, and service I had embarked in. *^ You may form a pretty good judgment of my prospect to a bril- liant campaign, when I inform you, that excepting about four hun- dred recruits from the State of Massachusetts, (a portion of which, I am told, are children, hired at about fifteen hundred ilollars eacli, for i)ine month's service^i I have had no re>-euforc«^m('ni to tlii'^ army 356 LEE. since last campaign ; while our numbers have been, and now are. diminishing daily, by the expiring terms of men, death and deser- tion, &c. &c. &c." The patriotic friend above alluded to, says, — " In this letter, and many others that I have seen. General Washington consoles himself with his unaffected piety and reliance on Providence, whose frequent favours all of us in our days of Revolutionary tribulation wit- nessed." He adds — " Discouraging as all this is, 1 feel more from the state of our currency, and the little at- tention which hitherto appears to have been paid to our finances, than from the smallness of our army: and yet, Providence having so often taken us up, when bereft of all other hope, I trust we shall not fail even in this." MAJOR EVAN EDWARDS. Among the many meritorious officers who gained distinction in the service, there were i^w who better deserved, or in a more extensive degree obtained the respect of the public, and affectionate esteem of his military associates than Major Edwards. I will not indulge my inclination to detail his talents and his vir- tues, his ready wit and poignant humour, but confine myself to a single Anecdote, perfectly characteristic of the man. The Major was of the Baptist persuasion, and origi- nally designed for the Ministry, but imbibing the mili- tary spirit of the times, entered the army, and appeared, at the commencement of the war, as one of the de- fenders of Fort Washington. A brave and stubborn re- RDWARDS. 357 sistance could not save the post, which fell into the hand* of the enemy, and Edwards became a prisoner. I have often heard him make a jest of the whimsical and fan- tastic fi,e;nre which he exhibited on this occasion. " It was not to be wondered," he said, '* that starch in per- son, emaciated as an anatomy, with rueful counte- nance, rendered more ghastly by misfortune, my dress partly military, but showing much of a clerical cut, that the risibility of the conquerors should have been very highly excited. One of the leaders, however, of the sucessful assailants, anxious to excite a still higher dei^ree of merriment, ordered me to ascend a cart, and as a genuine specimen of a Rebel officer, directed that I should be paraded through the principal streets of New -York. It was at the entrance of Canvass Town, that I was much amused by the exclamation of a Scot- tish female follower of the Camp, who called to a companion—-' Quick, quick lassie, rin hither a wee, and devarte yoursel, they've cotch'd a braw and bonny Rebel, 'twall de ye guid to laugh at him.' Hooting and derision attended my whole career, and at the con- clusion of the farce I was committeti to prison." In the eventful changes of the war it so happened, that the veny individual who had so ungenerously abused his power became a captive, experiencing the additional mortification of yielding his sword into the hands of the man so lately treated with scorn- ful indignity. Struck with the singularity of the rencounter, and thoroughly ashamed of his former behaviour, he with frankness, said — ' You are the last man, Sir, that I w^ished to meet on such an occasion, for no one have I ever so wantonly offended; from you I have nothing to look for but merited retaliation.' ' Not a word more on the subject, I beseech you. Sir,' was the reply of Edwards, * the surrender of your sword destroyed every recollection of former animosity ; rest assured, therefore, that while you remain with us^ 358 EDWARDS. it will be equally my pride and pleasure to sooth the pains of captivity, and to render you every service in my power.' " The cheerful disposition of Edwards, rendered hina as I have already stated, an universal favourite. The occasional indulgence of satirical propensities, pecu- liarly so, of General Charles Lee, who made him his Aid-de-Camp, and at his death left him a third of his estate. I never knew him, however, make an ill- natured remark, where he was not provoked to do so — then indeed, he spared not. A Colonel in the army, who was too much inclined to be poetical in his ])rose, telling Edwards, that he had heard a report concerning him, that had greatly amused him, the Major assured him that it was alto- gether without foundation. " O, no," said the Colo- nel, " deny it not — it must be true, and I will report and give it currency." " Thank you, thank you, kind Sir," rejoined Edwards, " your doing so, will save me thjB trouble of contradicting it." Among the intelfigent men connected with the army of the South, none was more admired in society than Mr. Richard Beresford. He pleased by his eccentri- city, and still more by the satirical shafts of his wit, which he threw with the happiest success. His ob- servations were laconic, but ever pointedly severe ; which occasioned Edwards to say, " I like that cyni- cal humourist, Beresford ; he constantly reminds me of one of your snapping turtle, never putting his head beyond his shell, but to bite at somebody." SCHUYLER. . 359 GENERAL SCHUYLER. Prejudices that it would be difficult to account for, having rendered General Schuyler unpopular among the troops, Congress were induced to supercede him, and to nominate General Gates, commander of the ^rmy opposed to Burgoyne. The patriotism and mag- nanimity displayed by the Ex-General, on this occa- sion, does him high honour. All that could have been effected, to impede the progress of the British army, had been done already. Bridges were broken up — Causeways destroyed — trees felled in every direction to retard the conveyance of stores and artillery. Pa- trols were employed to give speedy intelligence of every movement of the enemy, and detached corps of light troops to harass and keep up perpetual alarm. On Gates' arrival. General Schuyler, without the slightest indication of ill-humour, resigned his com- mand, communicated all the intelligence he possessed, and put every interesting paper into his hands, simply adding, " I have done all that could be done as far as the means were in my power, to injure the enemy, and to inspire confidence in the soldiers of our own army, and I flatter myself with some success ; but the palm of victory is denied me, and it is left to you, General, to reap the fruits of my labours. I will not fail, however, to second your views ; and my devotion to my country, will cause me with alacrity to obey all your orders." He performed his promise, and faithfully did his duty, till the surrender of Burgoyne put an end to the coptest. Another Anecdote is recorded to his honour. Gene- ral Burgoyne, dining with General Gates immediately after the Convention of Saratoga, and hearing Gene- ral Schuyler named among the officers presented to 560 SCHUYLER. him, thought it necessary to apologize for the destruc- tion of his elegant mansion a few days before, by his orders. *' Make no excuses, General," was the reply, " I feel myself more than compensated by the pleasure of meeting you at this table," QUAKER CONGRATULATIONS AFTER THE BATTLE OF GlTlLFORn. Lord Cornwallis, immediately subsequent to the battle of Guilford, having broken up his encampment, and recommended his wounded to the humanity of Gen- eral Greene, commenced his march upon Wilmington. Every movement was anxiously watched, and already Lee was on his flank, ready to strike, where the least ai)pearance gave the hope of doing it advantageously. It was on the second day's march that the Legion was approached by a company of about two hundred men, riding on pacing ponies, in the costume of Quakers, broad brimmed and short skirted, and headed by a marauder in full military dress, on their way to con- gratulate his Lordship on the brilliancy and importance of his victory. The same mistake was again made that led to the defeat of Pyle. Lee and his Dragoons were mistaken for Tarleton and his Legion ; and these Sons of Peace supposing that they might speak with impunity, were as free of invective against the suporters of American principles, as if they had been blasphemers from their cradles. Their leader was pre-eminently distinguished bv his abuse and insolence, which he 4B 362 QUAKER CONGRATULATIONS. ultimately carried to such extremity, and so highly exasperated the surrounding Dragoons with whom he conversed, that, yielding to the dominion of passion, one of them drew forth a pistol, and fatally discharging it, laid him dead at his feet. The consternation which followed cannot well be conceived of; fear paralized exertion ; the whole party, stupified and silent, remain- ed as if awaiting annihilation. Lee, who was ever eloquent, and conspicuously so when called on to speak on the spur of occasion, now advanced, and bidding them dismiss every apprehension for their personal safety, harangued them for a full half hour in such im- pressive and pathetic language, pointing out the folly and wickedness of their procedure, and representing the vengeance that would inevitably follow the repetition of their offence, that one and all avowed their sense of error, and promised to sin no more. " Retire, then," said Lee, *' seek your homes, and secure safety by sub- mission." The troop immediately wheeled, and for a short distance moved forward with regularity, but as if the words sauve qui pent liad been given, first one, and then another squad, broke off from the main body, and in a little turn, as you list, a Quaker was seen pushing forward his tackey to the full bent of his speed ; and he appeared to consider himself the most happy who could fastest fly from an enemy, who, though humane, might prove capricious, and end the interview in slaughter. FAILURE OF THE CONTEMPLATED ATTACK ON JOHN'S ISLAND. Lieutenant Colonel Lee, in his Memoirs, ap- pears to consider the circumstance which occasioned the abandonment of this enterprise, as one of the most unfortunate of the war. He had anticipated a bril- liant Partisan stroke, when by an unlooked for accident, his views were completely blasted. I shall record it, if only to show, that in the occurrences of war, destruc- tion is often at hand, when conviction exists of the most perfect security. Colonel Craig, one of the most distinguished officers in the British service, was encamped with a conside- rable force near the centre of the Island, firmly believ- ing it impossible for him to be surprised by an enemy. By the aid of numerous gallies and gun-boats, he had the entire command of the navigation, and all the small craft in the vicinity were in his possession. At the Church Flats, the River Stono dividing the Island from the Main, was known to be fordable at low water ; but, to command this pass two stout gal- lies were stationed, and so near to each other, as to admit of conversation betwixt their crews, while the sentinels every half hour parsed the watch words — "All's well!" To strike at the command of Colonel Craig, two powerful detachments were selected and placed under the orders of Lee and Laurens. Had these reached the Island, they were sufficient to ensure victory, and 364 CONTEMPLATED ATTACK, &c. they would have had the advantage of falling upon an enemy, in all probability careless from a false security, and altogether unprepared for action. But, unfortunate- ly in the api)roach to the river, the division of Laurens, commanded by Major James Hamilton, as good and intrepid an officer as any in the service, being badly guided, missed its way, and was lost in the woods. The division of Lee, under the guidance of Captain Freer, a patriotic Islander, arrived at the pass at the happiest moment. The tide was out, and Captain Rudolph, who led the van with the Legion Infantry, passed the river between the gallies, undiscovered. The remainder were ready to follow, when some un- easiness being entertained on account of the delay of Laurens' division, a halt was ordered. Thus exposed, the troops remained above an hour, the British senti? nels on each side continuing the cry of " All 's well !" The rapid flow of the tide soon increased the difficulty of passing so much, the water being up to the breast of the tallest man. that Rudolph was recalled ; and to the mortification of all concerned, the expedition ended in retreat. What has been suggested of the consequences which would have resulted, had the American forces passed the river, is justified by the conduct of the enemy ; for on the next day, being apprized of the contemplated attack, the whole force, which was dispersed over the Island, was collected, and with great precipitation re- moved to Charleston. CONTEMPLATED MUTINY OF THE ARMY UNDER GENERAL GREENE. When the Continental Arni}^ reached the lower country, in the fall 1781, and encamped at the Round- O, the means of subsistance were abundant. Plenty begat waste, and the consumption of every essential article of provision and forage, was so extravagant, that before the end of the winter, the difficulty of pro- curing food made it doubtful, whether it would not be necessary again to retire into the interior. The sea- son was altogether unpropitious to the transportation of supplies. The rains were incessant. This caused the good humoured Linton of Washington's, with more truth than politeness, to say to a lady who asked him, " How he liked the low country of Carolina? " Were I a duck, a crane, or a curlew, I might be qualified to give you an answer. Madam ; for, since my arrival in it, the face of the earth has never been within my view." These discouraging circumstances, the absolute want of decent clothing — the increase of disease, and dangerous predicament of having no active employment, gave existence to that spirit of mutiny of which I shall now speak. I wish that this disgraceful event could be blotted from our history ; but, as it did happen, there are circumstances connected with it, that deserve to be recorded. The mutiny of the Pennsylvania Line in Jersey, had spread dismay throughout the continent, and was regarded by the enemy as the prelude to universal re- S66 CONTEMPLATED MUTINY, &c. volt. Their disappointment was great, for a redress of grievances was all that was sought for ; and satis- faction being judiciously offered to the insurgents by our Government, they gave up the emissaries who had been sent from New-York, to encourag*^ the spirit of opposition, and cheerfully returned to their duty. No immediate evil was the result ; but this example of insubordination was, at a later period, productive of alarming consequences. Destitute, as I have stated, of clothing — stinted in food — severely afflicted by dis- ease, discontent began to manifest itself in the most appalling colours. The first indication of it that I recollect, was a placard near the quarters of General St. Clair, who commanded the Pennsylvanians, to this effect — " Can soldiers be expect^! to do their duty, clothed in rags, and fed on rice." Suspicion attaching to a few disorganizing characters, theij, to escape punishment, went over to the enemy, and tranquillity was, for a time, restored. The embers, however, that had been smothered, but not extinguished, were speedily revived, and were ready to burst into flame, through the intrigues of a Sergeant of the Pennsyl- vanians, and two domestics attached to the family of General Greene, who opened a correspondence with the enemy, and engaged, on a given day, to deliver up their commander and every officer of distinction. A female, who had noticed the murmuring of the dis- affected, and unguarded expressions of the ringleader, occasioned the discovery of the plot. The light troops, who had for some little time been indulged with com- fortable quarters in the rear, to recover from the fatigues of severe service, were immediately brought forward. To them, not a shade of suspicion attached. Washington's, Gill's, and the Legion Cavalry, took their station in advance. The Delawares, Smith's company of Virginia Regulars, and Legion Infantry, were drawn nearer to Head-Quarters. A troop of CONTEMPLATED MUTINY, &c. 367 horse was pushed forward to watch the motions of the enemy. The Sergeant was arrested, tried, and ex- ccuttx]. The fate of the country was suspended by a thread — destruction would inevitably have followed irresolution. Greene was sensible of it, and strid- ing with decision, gave a death blow to faction, and every symptom of revolt. It was a melancholy sight, awful indeed, and appalling, to behold a youth, an Apollo in shape, as fine a military figure as ever trod the earth, led forth to pay the penalty of his perfidy. He walked with a firm step, and com- posed countenance, distributing as he passed along, to such of his companions as approached him, seve- ral articles of his clothing, at that period precious legacies. His hat he gave to one, his coat to another, his sleeve buttons to a third. Every countenance ex- pressed sorrow, but not a murmur was heard. Arrived at the fatal spot, he in few words, but in the most im- pressive manner, called upon his comrades, *' not to sully their glory, nor forego the advantages they would speedily realize from the termination of the war; and if a thought of desertion was harboured in their bosoms, at once to discard it. I have no cause (he added) to com- plain of the Court ; I certainly spoke imprudently, and from the evidence given of my guilt, they could not have acted otherwise." He then gave the signal to the platoon selected from his own corps — was fired on, and expired. Great pains had been taken by General Greene, as soon as suspicion was excited, to make a full discovery. As soon, however, as sufficient evidence was obtained, he waited not to ascertain the extent of the evil, but by a decided step crushed it effectuall}^ The delay of a few hours must have occasioned the loss of our officers, and probably the death of every faithful soldier. O'Neal had been sent to watch the motions of the enemy, accompanied by Middleton as his second, and Captain Rudolph, who had volunteer- 368 CONTEMPLATED MUTINY, &c. ed. Passing Bacon and Eagle bridges, they patrolled the road for several miles below Dorchester, and see- ing no appearance of any party without their lines, wheeled his troop to return. Rudolph, with two Dra- goons, was in advance. On a sudden three well- mounted Black Troopers appeared in front. These were immediately charged. The chief fell by the arm of Pope, a soldier of distinguished gallantry. Rudolph dismounted the second, and made him a prisoner; the third escaped. The captive being asked if the British Cavalry were out in force, declared — '' That a single troop, under the command of Captain Dawkins, had gone by the way of Goose Creek Bridge, a few miles higher, and were to return by the way of Dorchester." Knowing the firmness of Rudolph, the valour of Mid- dleton, and tried bravery of his troop, O'Neal pushed forw^ard in full expectation of a complete triumph. Dawkins was soon discovered passing through the vil- lage of Dorchester, and bearing down upon him. The charge was sounded on both sides, and a fierce con- flict began ; but before any material advantage could be gained, the bugle was heard from another quarter, and infantry rose in every direction. A road leading towards Goose Creek, afforded the only chance of retreat: this was immediately taken, and though ex- posed to a heavy fire, the officers and most of the pri- vates escaped without injury. Nine men and fifteen horses of the troop fell into the hands of the enemy. Twelve of the traitors attached to the Main Army, quitted the standard of their country, and reached the British Lines in safety. The spirit of discontent ap- peared to fly with them. Till the final departure of the enemy no sign of dissatisfaction was ever again discovered. EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. Long had the departure of the enemy been looked for with anxious solicitude ; yet still was it protracted, till many adopted the opinion of General Gadsden, who, whenever the intention of abandoning the Capi- tal was mentioned, said, *' I will never believe that they are sincere in their intention to quit us, till they have fairly crossed the bar of Charleston." At length, on the evening of the 12th December, 1782, the Le- gion were ordered to cross the Ashley and move for- ward towards the British Lines, and to endeavour as much as possible to harass the retiring garrison. A detachment of Refugees, know from circum- stances to have left the city expressly to murder Mr. John Parker of Goose Creek, who had, but a few nights before, in defending his house against their attacks, killed their leader, Robins, were met with, and driven back so much under the influence of terror, that they eluded the pursuit even of our swiftest coursers. They were entering the plantation at one gate, when the Legion reached the house by another. Sensible that their motives could not be misunderstood, (their threats had indeed declared them) they shrunk from action and iled. Pedbiusque tbmr addidit alis. A considerable detachment of infantry that had crossed during the night ^t Ashley Ferry, under the command of Major James Hamilton, and a company 47 370 EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. of artillery under Captain Singleton, joined at day light, and the whole under the direction of General Wayne, moved towards the British out-post at Shu- bricks ; but, before any indication of hostility could be shown, a gentleman of respectability advancing, pro- posed on the part of General Leslie, *' That no impe- diment should be offered to embarkation ; in which case, he pledged himself that no injury should be done to the town. But, in the event of attack, he should use every means to insure security, and not be answer- able for any consequences that might follow. '^ Gen- eral Wayne gave a ready consent to the proposition, and immediately withdrew his troops to Accabee — not to refresh them, for they were totally destitute of food — but to prepare themselves, to make as handsome an appearance as circumstances would admit of, on the following morning. On the 14th, at day-break, a gun was fired to apprize the British of the approach of the American force, which now moved forward towards the city. Arriv^ed at their lines, as the ramparts were mounted, the Yaugers were seen retiring about fifty yards in front ; and some of our oflficers, not in com- mand, rode forward, and conversed with those of the army who were embarking. Orders had been issued by General Leslie, for the inhabitants to remain in their houses, and so strictly obeyed, that the Main Guard- House had actually been taken possession of, by Captain Rouvrey of the Maryland Line, before it was known that our troops were in the city. It appeared, however, that the enemy were not without suspicion, that they might receive a parting blow — for gallies in the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, dropped down in a line with our troops, the whole length of the Neck ; and iit front of the Bay, as the cavalry moved in their view, the men of war and armed vessels were ranged, with lighted matches, and every pueparation for action ; but EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. 37i MOt a shot was fired on either side, and the articles of convention strictly adhered to. In the evening General Greene entered the town, and was received with respectful homage. Great re- joicing could not be expected, as the persons found in the garrison were chiefly British merchants, who re- mained with permission to dispose of their goods, or Americans who had submitted, and who, though re- joiced at heart, might have considered it as indecorous to have shown external manifestation of it. The §uard at night was committed to the Legion; and, in a very little time, every apartment was crowded with soldiers and sailors, who had emerged from their hiding places, and surrendered themselves, or who were brought in by the patrols, being found at imi)roper hours in the streets. On the following morning General Wayne called at an early hour at the Guard-House, and handsomely said, — " I wish not to take advantage of circumstances. If there are any men among you, who have inadvertently remained behind, and not with intention to quit the British standard, let them speak; they shall not be regarded as prisoners, but be imme- diately conveyed on board the fleet." Nineteen sailors stepping forward, declared, " that they had only re- mained on shore to see the end of a frolic, and that they should be glad to profit by his generous offer." Lieutenant Middleton, with a proper compliment to General Leslie for the handsome manner in which he had prevented the town from being injured, embarked with a flag of truce, and delivered the men in his charge to Commodore Sweeney, who commanded the Naval department. On the morning of the evacuation, a very singular occurrence took place. Captain Cams observing a soldier, as he believed, dressed in a regimental exactly resembling that worn by the Legion, stepping hastily into the very last boat, put his hand on his shoulder, 372 EVACUATION OF CHARLESTON. and demanded, " Whither so fast, my lad ; you surely cannot wish to desert." " Sir," said the person held, " you are mistaken. I am a Captain in the British ser- vice." Cams immediately relinquished his hold, and apologized for his error. The boat pushed off, when it was discovered that the imprudent being who had so long delayed his departure, was Mr. William Oli- phant, late a Captain in the Continental Army, who, seduced by the promises of Lord C. Montague, had, to the unutterable grief of his venerable father, forsaken the cause of his country, and accepted a commission in his regiment. mf^rellaneotts mnttXfoUu. NIGHT ATTACK ON GENERAL WAYNE. OiNE of the most singular occurrences of the war, was the midnight attack upon the Camp of General Wayne, then laying at Gibbons' Plantation, about five miles distant from Savannah, by Gurestcssego, a chief of the Creek nation. The intrepidity of this gallant warrior was, in the first instance, attended with com- plete success. The sentinels were surprised, the camp entered, and cannon taken. The endeavour to render them serviceable proved his ruin ; the time was lost w^hich should have been employed in pursuing his suc- cess; and the confusion occasioned by so unlooked for an attack having subsided, the bayonet of Parker's Light Infantry, and desperate charge made by Gunn, proved irresistible. The chief, fighting hand to hand with Wayne, was killed. Seventeen of his warriors fell; the rest, abandoning their pack-horses, and leav- ing a very considerable prize of peltry to the victors, fled. It must for ever be regretted, that this rencounter, in which consummate gallantry was displayed on both sides, did not terminate here; but, unhappily, a report, which the very nature of the attack rendered probable, produced the most dire catastrophe. It appeared in- credible that Indians, accustomed for the most part to resort to stratagem for success, should, without the certainty of timely support, venture on so bold and hazardous an enterprise. An alarm wa§ spread that 574 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. the enemy from Savannah, led on by the gallant JBrowne, were at hand, hastening to support their allies ; and twelve young warriors, who were prisoners, were doomed to die, lest they should join the expected assailants. The precipitancy of the order caused many a pang to the heart of the General, for before the falsity of the intelligence could be ascertained, the devoted victims were delivered up a sacrifice, and unresisting fell. MAJOR MAXWELL. Towards the conclusion of the war, the hostile attacks of the Cherokees on our frontier, compelled General Greene to order General Pickens to invade their territory, and by exemplary punishment bring them to a proper sense of their error. With his accus- tomed zeal and activity Pickens performed the service, and with complete success. Mounting his men, and adopting the sword instead of the rifle, he so con- founded his enemy, that unable to withstand the bold- ness and fury of his charge, they speedily relinquished every idea of resistance, and precipitately fled. Forty Indians were killed, many prisoners taken, and thirteen towns reduced to ashes. Opposition ceased. Having often heard of a desperate conflict that had taken place on this occasion, betwixt a Chief of renown and Major Maxwell of the militia, I asked the particu- lars of that gentleman, and received the interesting communication which follows : " While charging the enemy, my horse was shot dead beneath me; I received a very injurious fall, and had scarcely time to rise and put myself on my guard, MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 375 when an Indian of prodigious power and activity, rush- ing furiously upon me, inflicted a deep and dangerous wound with his tomahawk ; receiving at the same mo- ment from my arm a deep sabre cut, that prostrated him to earth. Recovering about the same time, the first shock of our rencounter, we closed with increased animosity, and resolutely contending for victory, in turn appeared to obtain a superiority. In activity the Indian surpassed me. In strength I was his superior; and my advantage was still increasing, as the copious flow of blood issuing from his wound, rendered him at every instant more enfeebled. I perceived a creek to be near us ; I profited by the circumstance, and lifting my adversary in my arms, rushed into the deepest part of it, forced his head beneath the surface, and held it there, till life had completely left him. GENERAL WILLIAM BUTLER, The interesting Anecdotes relative to the sanguinary warfare in our interior country, which immediately follow, were obtained from Mr. Pickens Butler, son of the distinguished revolutionary Partisan, the late Gen- eral William Butler. The first unfortunately gives an appalling picture of the savage ferocity exercised by the Tories, while aim- ing at the subjugation of their adversaries, and must in the eyes of candour, tend to palliate the ° retaliatory measures resorted to by the Whigs. At a time vvnon the Loyalists were numerous and powerful in the inte- rior of the State, James Butler, who ^^as at the head of a party of Whigs, finding himself closely followed, and likely to be overpowered by Cunningham's hor,se, 376 AllSCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. sought shelter in a house near Cloud's Creek. He was quickly assailed by his pursuers, and defended himself with great gallantry ; but, his ammunition be- ing totally expended, he was driven to the necessity of listening to the tender of mercy proposed by Cunning- ham, and surrendered. The house was now closely surrounded to prevent escape. The arms of Mr. Butler and his party were demanded, and given up, when, to the disgrace of human nature, the unfortunate prisoners were marched out one by one, and delibe- rately cut to pieces. The ferocious leader of the Loyalists singled out Mr. Butler as his victim, and slew him with his own hand. One man alone escaped. A monument, erected by William Butler, with pious^ regret for so cruel a bereavement, marks to this day the spot where his intrepid father fell. Shortly after the capture of Charleston, Captain Michael Watson, a man of great courage, at the head of a party of eighteen mounted Rangers, raised at the ridge of Edgefield, took the field with determined iiostility against the Tories. William Butler (at an after period so highly distinguished as an active and intrepid Partisan) commanded a small body of cavalry, fifteen only in number, near the same place. These gallant Patriots, receiving information that a party of Tories were encamped in Dean's Swamp, near Orangeburgh, resolved to attack them, and uniting their forces for that purpose, marched forward at sun- down, with great rapidity, the more certainly to sur- prise them. About midnight, they met with and de- tained as a prisoner, one Hutto, a disaffected man, and taking him aloug with them, pursued their march. At the dawn of day, when very near the encampment of their enemy, Hutto escaped, w^hich at once destroyed the hope of meeting their adversaries unprepared for action. Watson declared it madness to proceed, but Butler, who had recently wept a murdered parent, and MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 377 whose feelings were excited to the highest pitch of irritation, avowed his firm determination to proceed at all hazards. . Watson, though disinclined in the first instance to pursue the enterprise, was not a man to be left behind, when a prospect appeared of gaining re- nown, and of serving his country. On the verge of Dean's Swamp, two men were seen standing alone. Butler, Watson, and Varney, a Sergeant of great in- trepidity, rode rapidly forward to secure their capture, the rest of the party closely following them. Butler was now within twenty yards of them, when Watson cried aloud, *' Beware ! the whole body of the enemy are at hand !" The Tories rose, as he spoke, from their ambuscade, and by a well directed fire, brought AVatson, Varney, and several others to the ground. *' Suffer me not," exclaimed Watson, '' to fall into their hands." Butler heard the appeal, and though severely galled in the attempt, in retiring carried with him the bodies of his friends. It was now seen, that the Tories doubled the num- ber of the Whig Party, who experienced the additional mortification of seeing themselves abandoned by some few of their associates, who fled ; and of finding, that in the conflict, though short, the whole of their ammu- nition had been expended. The Royalists were now advancing with perfect confidence of victory, when Butler, forming his troop in compact order, and nam- ing an intrepid soldier, John Corley, his Lieutenant charged into their ranks, depending entirely on the sword. The violence and suddenness of the onset, astonished and disconcerted the enemy to such a de- gree, as to throw them into confusion. Had the opportunity been given them to rally, their numbers would have given them victory; but, pressed by But- ler with an impetuosity even superior to that with which the attack was commenced, they turned their backs in despair, were driven into the swamp with 48 378 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. great slaughter, and dispersed. The Whigs now re- turned to the high land. As they passed the gallant Varney he made an effort to rise — waved his hand in triumph — fell again — and expired ! Administering comfort to those whom their care could benefit, a soldier's grave was dug with soldiers' swords, and Var- ney^s body deposited where the brave are proud to lie — the field of Victory ! GALLANTRY OF A BOY OF FOURTEEN. When Captain Falls, at the battle of Ramsour's Mill, received a mortal wound and fell, his son, a youth of fourteen, rushed to the body, as the man who had shot him was preparing to plunder it; regardless of his opponent's strength, the intrepid youth, snatching up his father's sword, plunged it into the breast of the soldier, and laid him dead at his feet. LIEUT. BALLARD SMITH, OF VIRGLNIA, ATTACHED TO THE LEGION OF INFANTRY. Shortly after the capture of the British Galley by Rudolph, where Lieutenant Smith acted as second in command, a Partisan enterprise was undertaken by him, which, had it succeeded, must have filled the British garrison with confusion and dismay. A tavern, called at that time Dewees', was kept at a farm house about two miles from Charleston. To this the British MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 379 officers frequently repaired for recreation. It was often the scene of entertainments, and on one occasion of a splendid ball. Lieutenant Smith being previously apprized of this, took with him twelve m? n, and Ser- geant Du Coin, of the Legion, a soldier of tried courage, and passed the river with a boat rowed with muffled oars, from the American, to the opposite shore. The night was dark and gloomy. The negro who served as guide bewildered by it, and probably appre- hensive of consequences if discovered, missed the land- ing place, and ran the boat into the marsh that skirted the shore. Du Coin, to make discoveries, slipped silently overboard, but, from the softness of the mud, with infinite difficulty reached the shore, immediately below the house. Curiosity led him to see what was passing within ; the noise of music and revelry facili- tated his approach, he leapt the fence, and passing through the garden, gained access to a window, through which he perceived a large and elegant assemblage of company enjoying the delights of dancing. Alone and unarmed, without a chance of success, he returned to the water's edge, and after ascertaining the exact situa- tion of the landing place, regained the boat. So much time had already been lost, the ebbing tide too being unfavourable to his purpose. Lieutenant Smith thought it best to retire, hoping to return, on some future occa- sion, with better success. The following night being favourable to enterprise, the river was passed as before, and the boat, steered by Du Coin, made the landing. Lieutenant Smith immediately surrounding the house, entered it, in full expectation of making a handsome capture of officers, but his evil genius forbade it. In- stead of twenty or thirty officers, many of them of high rank, a Hessian Major, and a Lieutenant of the volun- teers of Ireland, who had sacrificed too freely to Bac- chus, were the only persons found on the premises. These he parolled, and returned without molestation. , 380 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. LIEUTENANT FOSTER, OF VIRGINIA, ATTACHED TO THE LEGION. About the same period, a British armed vessel anchored opposite to Mr. Fuller's plantation, near Ash- ley Ferry. Lieutenant Foster, who commanded a scouting party in the neighbourhood, concluding that plunder was the object, and Mr. Fuller's, the point of destination, secreted his men so efF< ctually in the marsh, near the landing place, that the marauders ad- vancing in their boat, never suspected their danger till they saw the musksts of eighteen men, within ten yards, directly levelled at them. One man snatched up a blunderbuss and would have resisted, had he not been restrained by his companions, who, calling loudly for quarter, surrendered at discretion. This was a very acceptable prize. A fine boat, completely equip- ped, well provided with comforts, and twenty-six pri- soners, well armed, surrendered without a shot being fired. Freed from alarm on account of personal safety, the captives could not avoid jesting with each other on their misfortune, so completely and unexpectedly en- snared when confident of success, they had made their descent, well provided, not only with bags to carry off property, but with poles with slip-knots fixed to their ends, for the purpose of securing pigs and poultry. Their captivity was of short duration. Colonel Lau- rens, who commanded in the neighbourhood, sent them ill their own boat, under the sanction of a flag of truce, to Charleston, making them the heralds of their own disgrace. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 381 LIEUTENANT JOHN RHODES, OF PRINCE WILLIAMS. The British, while in possession of Port-Royal Island, kept a strong detachment of troops at Roupell's Ferry. A small militia guard, commanded by Lieu- tenant Rhodes of the Prince William's Company, were stationed at Page's Point, on the opposite shore. Sensible that it would be easy for an enterprising enemy, from the number of navigable creeks that led to his rear, to cut off his party, the Lieutenant judi- ciously made a representation of his perilous situation to the commanding Continental Officer at Sheldon. Brigade Major Hamilton of the 1st Regiment, was immediately sent to judge of the accuracy of the state- ment, who, finding it strictly correct, wrote for and obtained a Sergeant's guard of Continentals, to strengthen the command. '* While so near the enemy," said Hamilton, *' I would pay them a closer visit could I find a proper guide." " I am acquainted," replied Lieutenant Rhodes, *' with every foot of the ground they occupy, and will willingly accompany you across the river." Hastily conceived, and promptly entered on. the expedition was immediately carried into effect. A boat was prepared, and the river passed with muffled oars. A Sergeant's guard was approached, surrounded, and with the exception of one man who escaped, and the Sergeant, who resisting, was severely wounded by Lieutenant Rhodes, brought off. This Partisan stroke was accomplished by eleven men, officers included, four of whom never quitted the boat. 582 TVIILCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. LIEUTENANT PARHAM. During the action at Stono, Lieutenant Parham, the Adjutant of the Light Infantry, was stationed by Major Pinckney in the rear of the Continentals, pur- posely to keep the men in their stations, and prevent the possibility of skulkers falling behind. As he pass- ed over the field of battle, a British officer, desperately wounded, pressed him so earnestly to afford him a drink of water, to slake consuming thirst, that to re- fuse was deemed impossible, and the request was com- plied with. The British officer now presenting an elegant watch, said, — ^* Take it. Sir, 'tis yours by con- quest; your generous procedure, too, gives you still greater title to it." " I came into the field," said Par- ham, "to fight, and not to plunder; it gives me pleasure to have rendered you service; I ask no other recompense." " Keep it for me then, in trust," rejoined the oflicer, " till we meet again, for if left in my hands, it may be wrested from me by some marauder, who, to secure silence, may inflict death." " I will accede to your wishes, and take charge of it," said Parham, '' but soon as opportunity offers, consider it a sacred duty to return it." A very considerable period elapsed before a second meeting took place; but, in strict conformity to his honourable feeling, and voluntary promise, Parham no sooner found himself within reach of the man to whom he had pledged the restitution of his property, than he waited upon him, presented the watch, and was greet- ed with an expression of grateful commendation, that amply rewarded his correct and liberal conduct. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 333 MRS. WRIGHT. At the commencement of the Revolution, Mrs. Wright, a native of Pennsylvania, and distinguished modeller of likenesses and figures of wax, v^^as exhibi- ting specimens of her skill in London. The King of Great Britain, pleased with her talents, gave her liberal encouragement, and finding her a great politi- cian, and enthusiastic Republican, would often enter into discussion relative to passing occurrences, and endeavour to refute her opinions, with regard to the probable issue of the war. The frankness with which she delivered her sentiments, seemed rather to please than to offend him ; which was a fortunate circum- stance, for when asked an opinion, she gave it without restraint, or the least regard to consequences. I re- member to have heard her say, that on one occasion, the monarch, irritated by some disaster to his troops, where he had prognosticated a triumph, exclaimed with warmth, " I wish, Mrs. Wright, you would tell me how it will be possible to check the silly infatuation of your countrymen, restore them to reason, and render them good and obedient subjects." *' I con- sider their submission to your Majesty's government, 35 now altogether out of the question," replied Mrs. Wright. " Friends you may make them, but never subjects. For America, before a king can reign there, must become a wilderness, without other inhabitants than the beasts of the forest. The opponents of the decrees of your Parliament, rather than submit, would perish to a man ; but if the restoration of peace be seriously the object of your wishes, I am confident that it needs but the striking off of three heads to produce it." *' And whose are the three heads to be struck off, Madam." " O, Lord Northh^ and Lord George Ger- 584 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. maine^s, beyond all question." " And whose the third head ?" " O, Sire, politeness forbids nie to name him. Your Majesty could never wish me to forget myself, and be guilty of an incivility." In her exhibition room, one group of figures parti- cularly attracted attention ; and by all who knew her sentiments, was believed to be a pointed hint at the results, which rnight follow the wild ambition of the Monarch. The busts of the King and Queen of Great Britain, were placed on a table, apparently in- tently gazing on a head, which a figure, an excellent representation of herself, was modelling in its lap. It was the head of the unfortunate Charles the First. DELIESSELINE. After the disastrous surprise of the cavalry com- manded by White, at Lenud's Ferry, an exploit was performed by Mr. Deliesseline, the present Sheriff of Charleston District, that entitles him to a very high degree of praise. Although but sixteen years of age when Charleston fell, inspired with ardent enthusiasm in the cause of his country, he determined to encounter every danger, and to submit to every privation, rather than yield to a foe who had already shown a fixed de- termination to rule with the iron hand of oppression ; and to avoid impending danger, had sought safety in concealment. On the appearance and first attack of the British, thirteen of the best horses of the corps surprised, broke through the ranks of the assailants, and gallopped off in a body ; but, being speedily fol- lowed by a party of the victorious dragoons, were taken, and conveyed to a neighbouring plantation, and MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. SS5 there left in possession of an inhabitant named Des- champs, with strict injunction from the officer com- manding, not to suffer them to be removed, till he should return and reclaim them. Deschamps being a Whig in principle, paid little regard to the order ; and through the medium of a lady strongly attached to the American cause, information was immediately con- veyed to the retreat of Deliesseline; in the swamp on the opposite side of the Santee. The fair opportunity to serve his country was not neglected. Accompanied by a youth of his own age, named Dupre, the river was immediately passed, the stables of Deschamps assailed, and in spite of the resistance of the domestics, the horses seized, swam across the Santee, and deli- vered, with all their equipments, to Major Jamison, who, with several officers who had escaped the swords of the enemy, were assembled at Georgetown. The delight of these gentlemen, to see the finest of their cavalry thus unexpectedly restored, surpassed expres- sion. Major Jamison immediately tendered a certi- ficate to the full amount of their value ; but the patriotic spirit that had given birth to enterprise, spurn- ed the idea of being paid for its accomplishment. The youthful associates modestly declared, *' That their motives were altogether disinterested ; and that the happiness of having rendered a service to their coun- try, was a sufficient reward." CAPTAIN GEE. At the battle of Eutaw, when General Marion's Brigade was displaying in face of the enemy, Captain Gee, who commanded the front platoon, was shot 49 386 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. down, and supposed to be mortally wounded. The ball passed through the cock of a handsome hat, that he had recently procured, tearing the crown very much, and in its progress, the head also. He lay for a con- siderable time insensible ; the greater part of the day had passed without a favourable symptom ; when, sud- denly reviving, his first inquiry was after his beaver, which being brought him, a friend, at the same time, lamenting the mangled state of the head, he ex- claimed — " O, never think of the head ; time and the Doctor will put that to rights ; but it grieves me to think, that the rascals have ruined my hat for ever I" CAPTAIN ZEIGLER, OF PENNSYLVANIA. The conclusion of the war, though in the highest degree acceptable to a great majority of the citizens of the United States, proved far otherwise to the soldiers of fortune, who souglit not only reputation, but sup- port, by their swords. I remember full well, that when the army was re- viewed for the last time on James' Island, and 'dfeu de joie fired to celebrate the return of Peace, that Cap- tain Zeigler of the Pennsylvania Line, after saluting General Greene, significantly shrugging up his shoul- ders, and dropping the point of his sword, gave vent to an agony of tears. The review ended ; on being questioned as to the cause of his emotion, he feelingly said — " Although I am happy in the thought,^ that my fellow soldiers may now seek their homes, to enjoy the reward of their toils, and all the delights of domes- tic felicity, I cannot but remember, that I am left on the busy scene of life, a wanderer, without friends. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 387 and without employment ; and that, a soldier from in- fancy, I am now in the decline of life, compelled to seek a precarious subsistence in some new channel, where ignorance and inability may mar my fortunes, and condemn me to perpetual obscurity." I have given the purport of his speech in plain language — it certainly was not his usual style of speaking ; iq which, the mixture of German and English words, formed a dialect not easily to be comprehended. An excellent and intrepid soldier, he was particu- larly proud of the discipline and military appearance of the company he commanded. On one occasion? wdiile conducting a number of prisoners to a British out-post, addressing himself to his men, whom he was ambitious to show to the best advantage, he said, assuming an erect posture, and an air of great dignity, " Gentlemens, you are now to meet with civility the enemy of your country, and you must make dem re- gard you with profound and respectful admiration. Be please, den, to look great — to look graceful — to look like ^^ Devil — to look like me !" FICKLING. A CIRCUMSTANCE occurrcd during the encampment of General Lincoln at Purysburg, that from its sin- gularity deserves to be recorded. A soldier named Fickling, by the irregularity of his conduct, long excit- ed the indignation of his comrades, and, at length, from repeated efforts to desert to the enemy, had been brought to trial, and condemned to death. It hap- l)ened, that as he was led to execution, the Surgeon General of the army passed accidentally on his way to 3^^ MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTE^. his quarters, which were at some distance off. Oa being tied up to the fatal tree, the removal of the lad- (Jer caused the rope to break, and the culprit fell to the ground. This circumstance, to a man of better cha- racter, might have proved of advantage ; but, being universally considered as a miscreant, from whom no good could ever be expected, a new rope was sought for, which Lieutenant Hamilton, the Adjutant of the 1st Regiment, a stout and heavy man, essayed by every means, but without effect, to break. Fickling was then haltered, and again turned off, when, to the astonishment of the by-standers, the rope untwisted, and he fell a second time, uninjured, to the ground. A cry for mercy was now general throughout the ranks, which occasioned Major Ladson, Aid-de-Camp to General Lincoln, to gallop to Head-Quarters, to make a representation of facts, which were no sooner stated, than an immediate pardon was granted, ac- companied with an order, that he should, instanta- neously, be drumn>ed, with every mark of infamy, out of camp, and threatened with instant death if ever he should, at any future period, be found attempting to approach it. In the interim, the Surgeon General had established himself at his quarters, in a distant barn, little doubting but that the catastrophe was at an end, and Fickling quietly resting in his grave. Mid- night was at hand, and he was busily engaged in writ- ing, when hearing the approach of a footstep, he raised his eyes, and savy with astonishment, the figure of the man, who had, in his opinion, been executed, slowly and with haggard countenance approaching towards him. '' Ho\y ! how is this ?" exclaimed the Doctor. " Whence come you ? What do you want with me ? Were you not hanged this morning ?" ** Yes, Sir," replied the resuscitated man, " I am the wretch you saw going to the gallows, and who was hanged." *^ Keep your distance," said the Doctor; " approach MISCEIXAJ^EOUS ANECDOTES. 589 me nojt xill you say, why coQie you here ? " Simply, Sir," said the supposed spectre, *' to solicit food. I am no ghost, Doctor. The rope broke twice while the executioner was doing his office, and the General thought proper to pardon me." '' If that be the case," rejoined the Doctor, " eat and welcome ; but I beg of you, in future, to have a little more consideration, and not intrude so unceremoniously into the apartment of one who had every right to suppose you an inhabitant of the tomb." HAPPY ESCAPE. I HOPE I shall be pardoned for relating an occurrence, which, though of no consequence to the public, was to myself of such momentous importance, as not be recol- lected, even at this distant day, without the keenest and most appalling sensations. To check the predatory ex- cursions of the British garrison, the light troops were so placed as to be ready, on the slightest alarm, to encoun- ter them. The enemy were not without energy, and did occasionally venture beyond their lines, but rarely with impunity; a partial sacrifice of men was the gene- ral result, frequently the entire loss of the party. They had their successes too, and on three different occa- sions, Armstrong and George Carrington of Lee's, and Kelty of Baylor's, were made prisoners. Information being communicated to Colonel Laurens, that a con- siderable detachment of cavalry had passed by Goose Creek Bridge, higher up the country than they had usually ventured, Rudolph^ s company of the Legion, and QuinauWs of the Delawares, were thrown across the Ashley, to await them in ambuscade. Quinault 390 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. took post near Eagle Bridge, beloiv Dorchester; Ru- dolph above it, immediately opposite to the avenue leading to Cato's Plantation: I acted as his subaltern. It was at the close of the day, that information was communicated by a dragoon, that the enemy were cer- tainly above us, and retiring towards their lines. Rudolph, commanding the strictest silence, placed out three sentinels, each a little in advance of the other, with orders not to hail, but to retire cautiously before any party that should approach: then, addressing his men, he said, — *' I know you too well to think it necessary to recommend obedience and energy. When the first sentinel reaches us, whom I have ordered to retire as the enemy appears, a single clap of my hands shall be the signal to prepare. When the second, I shall again clap my hands, you must stand ready to level your pieces; and I trust you will do so with that delibera- tion, that, from your proximity to the road, must occa- sion great execution. W^hen I clap my hands the third time, give your fire, shout loudly, and rush forward with the bayonet." He had scarcely ceased speaking, when horsemen were distinctly heard crossing an old field, directly in our front, to Cato's house. To ascer- tain who tiiey were, Captain Rudolph quitted his com- inand, directing me, should the enemy appear, to act in strict conformity to the orders he had communicated. But a very few minutes had elapsed before the sen- tinel most advanced, retiring, proclaimed that he had distinctly heard the approach of cavalry. I clapped my hands, and every soldier was prepared. The second sentinel made his appearance also; from him commu- nication was unnecessary, the trampling of horses, slowly approaching, was heard by every one. I clap- ped my hands, and all were ready to level ; the third sentinel came in, and I now perceived, though indis- tinctly, from the darkness of the night, the head of the advancing troop. I candidly own that it was a moment MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 391 of breathless expectation. It was about twenty yards distant, and I only waited till it should be immediately in our front, to give the signal to fire, when the exalted voice of Rudolph was heard, exclaiming, '* Stop, for God's sake stop ; do not fire, they are friends." He speedily reached me with the information, that the horsemen he had met at Cato's were two of our own regiment, who had been sent forward to seek him, to give information that Captain Armstrong, with the third troop of the Legion, had crossed at Bacon's Bridge, and to caution him against mistaking them for the enemy. Good God! what an escape was mine; it was Armstrong who was now immediately before me; and had not the interposition of Providence saved me, I should in an instant, though innocently, have done a deed that must have imbittered every hour of my future life. . - X While the Legion lay at Mr. Izard's Villa Planta- tion, near Bacon's Bridge, anxiously looking forward to the evacuation of the Capital, having long assidu- ously attended to the duties of camp, my superior officer. Captain Handy, advised me, as there was little appearance of an immediate call for active service, to visit a friend in the neighbourhood, and enjoy the luxury of a comfortable meal. 1 was not unthankful for the favour, and with great satisfaction rode to Mrs. Barnard Elliott's, a few miles distant, from whose hos43itality I was certain to meet a hearty welcome. Dinner was served up, and I was about to take, my place at table, when a dragoon gallopping up, presenteil a note from Captain Handy, requiring me, without delay, to join the regiment about to cross tiie Ashley, with orders to harass the rear of the retiring enemy, wlio were on the eve oT departure. 1 had no alterna- tive, and without a moment's hesitation, set out. Ar- 592 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. riving at the Villa, I found that the regiment had already moved, and hastening forward, speedily joined it. Encamped for the night at Parker's, below Dor- chester, and expressing to Handy and Manning, my companions, the disappointment recently experienced, and the cravings of immediate appetite, a soldier, who had heard the conversation, with great civility, said, " While on our march. Perry Scott purchased of a negro, who was passing us, a turkey, which we have cooked. If you will partake of it. Lieutenant, I have a leg and a little rice, altogether at your service." It was not a moment to refuse. The leg and rice were produced, and my friends and self eat our scanty por- tion with great relish. We had halted at Parker's during the night, to give General Wayne an opportunity of crossing, with a large body of infantry, the Ashley Ferry ; and at early dawn moved forward to join him, but not before a second soldier had presented to Man- ning, the other leg of the turkey purchased by Scott. Soon after our junction with the infantry. General Wayne, escorted by the whole of the cavalry, moved forward to reconnoitre the enemy's position at Shu- brick's. The usual hour of refreshment having passed, with little appearance of relief from our Commissary, a third soldier advancing, said, " I hope Captain Handy will not refuse from me, a leg of the turkey which Scott purchased the last night on the road, as it is a particularly fine one : and I wish, with a tempting mess of rice, to offer it to him." The third leg was eaten ; and, to shorten my story, for three succeeding meals, still another, and another leg of Scott's purchased turkey were presented. The mystery was soon explained. A messenger, with dispatches from Head Quarters to General Wayne, brought an order also, that the knapsacks of the troops should be strictly examined, as Mr. John Waring's poultry-house MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 393 had been robbed, and thirty turkeys carried off, about the time of our removal from Izard's. Search was accordingly made, but not a feather found that could justify suspicion of criminality in any Legionary Sol- dier. A detachment of Pennsylvanians were but a little removed from the spot, and as they enjoyed high reputation for their partiality to delicate fare, this un- ceremonious transfer of property, was generally attri- buted to them, A story is recorded in testimony of the ready wit of a soldier of that Line, to this effect. A turkey-cock being found in his knapsack, and inquiry made as to the right of possession, he declared, " that in his gob- bling the saucy bird had so often called him tory^ tory, tory, that he had killed him to prevent further insult." *' But," said the inquirmg officer, *' here is a hen also in your knapsack ; she does not gobble — why was she brought." *' Oh, an please your honour, as an evi- dence. She heard the insult, and if she had not been smothered by her close confinement, might have told you how much I bore, before I could persuade myself to do the rascal an injury." GENERAL WASHINGTON. A FRIEND who assured me that his information was derived from the best authority, related an Anecdote highly characteristic of the humanity and discretion of the good and great Washington. Stopping for refresh- ment at a house in Jersey, in which a wounded officer lay, who was sensibly agitated by the slightest noise, he constantly spoke in an undertone of voice ; and at table, in every movement, evinced marked considera- ^0 394 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. tion for the sufferer. Retiring to another apartment at the conclusion of the meal, the gentlemen of his family, unrestrained by his presence, were less par- ticular. They spoke in higher tones ; when the Gen- eral, who heard them with uneasiness, immediately returning, opened the door with great caution, and walking on tip toe to the extremity of the apartment^ took a book from the mantlepiece, and without utter- ing a syllable, again retired. The hint was not lost — respectful silence was the immediate consequence. Dr. M*Caula, some time since Intendant of Charles- ton, who served with distinction during the war of the Revolution, has frequently declared, that after the sur- render of York-Town, while the Continental Troops were preparing to receive the British, who were to march forth from the garrison, and deliver up their arms, that he heard the Commander in Chief say, (ad- dressing himself to the division of the army to which he was attached) " My brave fellows, let no sensation of satisfaction for the triumphs you have gained, induce you to insult your fallen enemy — let no shouting, no clamourous huzzaing increase their mortification. It is sufficient satisfaction to us, that we witness their humiliation. Posterity will huzza for us !" \ OLD LYDICK. ;-\ Shortly after his election to the presidency of the United States, General Washington, his lady, and Secretary, Major Jackson, on their way from the seat of Government to Mount Vernon, stopped for the night at Chester. The President had scarcely arrived, and expressed a wish not to be disturbed, when a mes- sage was brought, that an old gentleman, once honour- MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 395 €(1 with his favour and protection, anxiously requested permission to pay his respects, adding, that his name was Lydlch " Let him enter, by all means," said General Washington, *' he is the man, Major Jackson, who, at the hazard of his life, entered New- York, while in possession of the enemy, for the purpose of . distributing among the German troops, proclamations, inviting them to our standard ; and who, at an after period, superintended for many years our baking esta- blishment with zeal and diligence." As the old man entered, the General, taking him kindly by the hand, said, '' My worthy friend, I am rejoiced to see you, and truly happy to express my thanks to a man to whom I feel myself under great obligation. You ever served you country with exemplary fidelity, and her warmest gratitude is richly your due." *' Such praise from my beloved commander," replied Lydick, *' is high reward. I shall now go to my grave in peace, since it has been my happiness, once again, to meet and pay my duty to your Excellency. I have but one regret. You are childless ! You leave your country no representative of your virtues ! But you are not as old as Abraham ; and she^ (gently touching the shoulder of Mrs. Washington) as old as Sarah ; and through the favour of the Almighty, I hope that a son may still be born to bless us." The General, with a smile, thanked him for his good wishes, and the old man retired, praying, that fruitfulness might crown the last years of their existence with perfect felicity. 596 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. MICHAEL DOCHERTY. The character of the Soldier of Fortune, so inimita- bly well drawn, and which constitutes the chief uierit of the popular tale, *' A Legend of Montrose," has been considered altogether imaginary. The careless facility with which he changed sides, and embraced opposite principles, regarded as the sportive invention of the author's brain. I will briefly relate the adven- tures of a sentinel in the Continental service, as re- ceived from his own lips, and leave it to my readers to determine whether the character of Dalgetty, " though it never did, might not have existed." At the moment of retreat, on the 12th of May, 1782, when Colonel Laurens, commanding the Light Troops of General Greene's army, beat up the quarters of the enemy near Accabee, Michael Docherty, a distin- guished soldier of the Delawares, said to a comrade who was near, — *' By Jasus, it does my heart good to think that little blood has been spilt this day, any how, and that we are likely to see the close of it without a fight." No notice was taken of his speech at the time, but meeting him shortly after in camp, I inquired, ** how he, who was so much applauded for uncommon gallantry, should have expressed so great delight on finding the enemy indisposed for action." *' And who, besides myself, had a better right to be pleased, I wonder," said Docherty. *' Wounds and captivity have no charms for me, and Michael has never yet fought, but, as bad luck would have it, both have been his portion. When 1 give you a little piece of the history of my past life, you will give me credit for my wish to be careful of the part that is to come. I was unluckly from the jump. At the battle of Brandy wine, acting as Sergeant of a company in the Delaware Re- iMfSCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 397 giment, my Captain killed, and Lieutenant absenting himself from the field for the greater safety of his mother's son, I fought with desperation till our ammu- nition was expended, and my comrades being com- pelled to retire, I was left helpless and wotmded on the ground, and fell into the hands of the enemy. Con- finement was never agreeable to me. I could npver be aisy within the walls of a prison. A recruiting Sergeant of the British, who was at home in his busi- ness, and up to all manner of cajolery, by dint of per- petual blarny, gained my good will, slipped the King's bounty into my hand, which I pocketed, and entered a volunteer into the 17th Regiment. Stoney Point was our station, and I thought myself snugly out of harm's way, when one ugly night, when I did not even dream of such an accident, the post was carried at the point of the bayonet, and an unlucky thrust laid me prostrate on the earth. It was a great consolation, however, that although this was rather rough treat- ment from the hand of a friend, that the Old Dela- wares were covered with glory, and that as their prisoner, I was sure to meet the kindest attention. M}^ wound once cured, and white-washed of my sins, my ancient comrades received me with kindness; and light of heart, and hoping to gain any quantity of laurels in the South, 1 marched forward with the Regiment, as a part of the command destined to recover the Carolinas and Georgia. The bloody battle of Camden, fought on the 16th of August, bad luck to the day, brought me once again into trouble. Our Regiment was cut up root and branch, and poor Pilgarlic, my unfortunate self, wounded and made prisoner. My prejudices against a jail I have frankly told, and being pretty con- fident that I should not a whit better relish a lodging in the inside of a prison-ship, I once again suffered myself to be persuaded, and listed in the inl'antry of Tarleton's Legion. O, botheration, what a mistake. 398 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. I never before had kept such bad company; as a maii of honour, I was out of my i/emen^, and should certainly have given them le^ bail, but that 1 had no time to brood over my misfortunes, for the battle of the Cow- pens quickly following;, Howard and Old Kirk wood gave us the bayonet so handsomely, that we were taken one and all, and I should have escaped unhurt, had not a dragoon of Washington's added a scratch or two to the account already scored on my unfortunate car- cass. As to all the miseries that I have since endured, afflicted with a scarcity of every thing but appetite and musquitoes, I say nothing about them. My love for my country gives me courage to support that, and a great deal more when it comes. I love my comrades, and tbey love Docherty. Exchanging kindnesses, we give care to the dogs ; but surely you will not be sur- prised, after all that I have said, that I feel some qualms at the thought of battle, since, take whatever side I will, I am always sure to find it the wrong one> COLONEL MENZIES. Some time previous to the evacuation of Cbarles- ton. Colonel Menzies of the Pennsylvania Line, re- ceiving a letter from a Hessian officer within the garrison, who had once been a prisoner, and treated by him with kindness, expressing an earnest desire to show his gratitude, by executing any commission with which be would please to honour him. Colonel Menzies re- plied to it, requesting him to send him twelve dozen Cigars ; but, being a German by birth, and little ac- customed to express himself in English, he was not very accurate in his orthography, and wrote Sizars. Twelve dozen pair of Scissors were accordingly sent MISCELLANEOUS AxNECDOTES. 399 him, which, for a time, occasioned much mirth in the camp, at the Colonel's expense ; but no man knew better how to profit from the mistake. Money was not, at the period, in circulation ; and by the aid of his runner, distributing his Scissors over the country, in exchange for poultry, Colonel Menzies lived lux- uriously, while the fare of his brother officers was a scanty pittance of famished beef, bull-frogs from ponds, and crayfish from the neighbouring ditches. The want of active employment was, at this time, extremely prejudicial to the service ; for, while it en- gendered discontent among the men, it gave birth to perpetual feuds among the officers. Having little to apprehend from the exertions of the enemy, confined within the narrow limits of the garrison of Charles- ton, indolence gave birth to peevishness and discontent, and bile was generated to an overflow. A look, a smile, and even the slightest inuendo, though uttered without the most distant idea of giving offence, was too frequently the prelude to a call to the field. The loss of some valuable lives, and infliction of many wounds, was the consequence. I will mention but one instance of the trivial causes that gave birth to intemperate hostility. Colonel Menzies, boasting of the antiquity of his family with true German pom- posity, Lieutenant Colonel Jack Steward of Mary- land, laughingly observed, " That it was impossible for him to entertain a doubt upon the subject, since he remembered in the reading of his boyish days, to have formed an acquaintance with a Jew of celebrity, one Mordecai Menzies, the confidential and bosom friend of the law giver Moses." This jeu d^esprit produced a duel, and nothing but the interposition of cooler heads (the first shots being exchanged without mis- chief) prevented it from ending fatally. 400 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES, YANKEE CAPTAIN. Till the last hour that the British kept possession of New-York, independent of Cusiom-House forms, they obliged the Captains of American vessels, bring- ing in articles for sale, to dance attendance, in many instances, for days together, seeking passports to pre- vent detention by the guard-ships. An unfortunate Yankee, who had sold his notions^ and was impatient to depart, having been repeatedly put off with frivolous excuses, and bid to '* call again," indignantly exclaim- ed, " Well, I vow, for a beaten people, you are the most saucy that I ever met with." "Make out that fellow's passport immediately," said the superinten- dant to an officiating clerk, " and get rid of him." EXCHANGE OF SHELLS. The enmity of the contending armies, during the siege of Charleston, was not confined to open hostility, but manifested itself in the indulgence of irony, too pointed not to give increase to mutual animosity. To- wards the conclusion of it, the British believing that that the fare of the garrison was both indifferent and scanty, a thirteen-inch shell was thrown from their lines, which passing immediately over the Horn Work, manned by a detachment of the Ancient Battalion of Artillery of Charleston, fell into a morass immediately in the rear, without exploding. An officer of that corps who saw it lodge, approaching it after some time, perceived a folded paper attached to it, directed MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 401 ^* To the Yankee Officers in Charleston." The con- tents of which expressed a wish, '* That in their known state of starvation, they would accept from a compassionate enemy, a supply of the necessaries they most delighted in." The shell was filled with rice and molasses. To return the compliment, a shell was immediately filled with hogslard and brimstone, and thrown into the British works, accompanied by a note, expressing thanks for the present received, and begging that the articles returned by a considerate enemy, might be appropriated to the use of the Scotch gentlemen in the camp, to whom, as they were always of conse- quence, they might now prove peculiarly acceptable. It was understood after the siege, that the note was received, but not with that good humour that might have been expected, had it been considered as tijeu d"^ esprit resulting from justifiable retaliation. SmGlJLAll INSTANCE OF STERN REPUBLICAN SITB- MISSION TO MISFORTUNE. The sternness of Republican principles may cei> tainly be carried to extremity. I received from Gen- eral Barnwell, what has appeared to me a striking instance of it. Hastening to return to his military duties, after his exchange, accompanied by his brothers Edward and Robert, his nephew William Elliott, and Aid-de-Camp John B. Holmes, they overtook in a dreary and desolate pine barren, in North Carolina, Dr. George Bellinger, riding on a miserable broken down tackey, a blanket serving him as a saddle, and sugar-loaf strings as a bridle, to direct his motions. \n invitation was immediately given him to partake ®f 51 402 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES* the refreshment, which the more fortunate group cai* ried with them, and accepted. Merrily passed the entprtainment. At the conclusion of it, General Barn- well rommisserating the dej)lorable situation of a gen- tleman of the most decided Whig principles, said to Mr. Elliott, " I cannot bear the idea, that a staunch Patriot, pressing forward to resume a station of utility in the service of his country, should be thus ill pro- vided, while your servant is well mounted, and riding at his ease. An exchange is necessary for your credit, and for the sake of humanity." *' My wishes," re- plied Mr. Elliott, " accord with your own. Come, Doctor," continued he, " take my servant's horse, and join our party. He will mount your's, and in duo time rejoin us." " I have partaken of your fare," said Bellinger, " with thankfulness ; but can never accept a favour, that I candidly confess, 1 should not have sufficient generosity to return. I might have spared you liquor and food, had you been in my place, and I in yours; but, further than that, I could not have imitated the noble effort of generous ft^eling exhibited.' Republican independency, while it bids me admire your liberal offer, prevents me from profiting by it; therefore, pass on. I shall, in duo season, be with vou." LEVINGSTONE. A SOLDIER of General Marion's Brigade, named Levingstone, an Irishman by birth, meeting with an armed party, on a night profoundly dark, suddenly found a horseman's pistol applied to his breast, and heard the imperious command, — " Declare, install- MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 403 taneously, to- what party you belong, or you are a dead man." The situation being such as to render it highly probable that it might be a British party, he very calmly replied, *' I think, Sir, it would be a little more in the way of civility if you were to drop a hint, just to let me know which side of the question you are pleased to favour." " No jesting," replied the speaker, ** declare your principles, or die." *' Then, by Jasus," rejoined Levingstone, ** I will not die with a lie in my mouth. American, to extremity, you spalpeen, so do your worst, and be damn'd to you." " You are an honest fellow," said the inquirer, " we are friends, and I rejoice to meet a man faithful as you are to the cause of our country." LOASTER. An instance of intrepidity in an individual belonging to the Brigade commanded by General Sumter, de- serves to be recorded. A detachment of mounted militia, had been sent out by the General to watch the movements of the enemy, hastening, under the com- mand of Lord Rawdon, to the relief of Ninety-Six, and came up with their rear guard at a place called the Juniper Springs, about fifteen miles distant from Granby. The British cavalry, who composed it, were of much superior force, and being in every respect bet- ter prepared for action, quickly disconcerted the Ame- rican detachment, and put them to flight. A poor German, named Loaster, belonging to the American party, mounted on a sorry poney, with a rope bridle, and corresponding equipments, with no other arms than a musket, which he had already fired off, was 404 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. assailed by a British dragoon, who aimed several des- perate blows at him with his sabre, which were warded off with extraordinary dexterity, Loaster calling out after every parry, *' Huzza for America." While in this perilous situation, a Mr. Fitzpatrick, determining, if possible, to save him, rode up, and with the butt end of his pistol, which had been previously discharged, struck the dragoon so violent a blow in the face as to fell him to the ground. Loaster, thus happily rescued, rode off and escaped, vowing most earnestly never again to go into action without a cutting iron, his m»]sket being nearly severed in two, in five different places. GEORGE PETRIE, Where generous interposition preserves the life of au^ intrepid enemy, it ought not to be passed over unnoticed. At the battle of Stono, though nearly annihilated by the charge made upon them by the American Light Infan- try, led on by Colonel Henderson and Major Pinckney, no troops could have behaved better, or fought with greater obstinacy, than the detachment of the 71st British Regiment, that sallied from their line of Re- doubts to oppose them. A Captain Campbell was particularly distinguished, by his activity and daring courage, but ultimately subdued by the severity of his wounds, and loss of blood ; he was leaning against a tree, awaiting the result of the contest, when a Con- tinental soldier, rasing his piece, was about to inflict an exterminating thrust with the bayonet, had he not hf^en prevented by Lieutenant George Petrie, of the South- Carolina Line, who, upbraiding him for a want MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 405 of humanity to an unresisting and fainting foe, arrested his arm, and saved his gallant enemy. Colonel Hen- derson, who had seen the whole transaction, at this moment rode up, and exclaiming, " That is too brave a fellow to die," committed him to the care of the very soldier who would have destroyed him, with a strict injunction to guard him, at the peril of his life, from injury. REMARKABLE INCIDENT. A VERY singular occurrence took place during the siege of Augusta, to the truth of which many living witnesses can give testimony. I mention my friend, Dr. Irvine, as one who was present when it happened. Two outlaws, distinguished by the enormity of their offences, were taken and condemned to die. An exe- cutioner could not be found. Every soldier in the army shrunk with abhorrence from the office. It was at length determined that the one deemed the least guilty should receive a pardon, on the condition of serving as hangman, while his companion paid the penalty of his crimes. The terms were accepted, and the most atrocious culprit turned off. He, however, who was pardoned, had little time for triumph, for his part was scarcely performed before a four pound shot, from the enemy's battery, struck him on the breast, and laid him dead at the side of the man who had been executed. 40G MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. AN UNINVITED GUEST. During the siege of York-Town Baron Steuben, giviiii^ a breakfast to several of the Field Officers of the army, in the course of the entertainment, while festivity was at its height, and in anticipation of the honours which awaited them, mirth and good humour abounded, a shell from the enemy fell into the centre of the circle formed by his guests. There was no time for retreat; to fall prostrate on the earth afforded the only chance of escape; every individual stretched him- self at his length ; the shell burst with tremendous explosion, covering the whole party with mud and dirt, which rather proved a source of merriment, than serious concern, since none of the party sustained any further inconvenience. IMPORTANT SERVICE OF MAJOR EDMUND HYRNE.' In the spring of the year 1781, General Greene, commisserating the wretched situation of the Exiles at St. Augustine, and of the inflexible patriots confined in the Provost and Prison-ships ; anxious too to relieve, and profit by the services of the Continental troops confined in Charleston, sent his Aid-de-Camp, Major Edmund Hyrne, to the city, with the hope of accom- plishing an equitable exchange. A man better qualified for so important a commission, could not have been selected. He was liberal in all his ideas ; and where reason would justify concession, willing to yield and MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 40? conciliate; but against the encroachments of arrogance and injustice, firm as adamant. The British commanders, well apprized of the talents and influence of many of the individuals within their power, showed little disposition to accede to the terms proposed by the American negotiator; and on their part offered such, as it was altogether impossible for him to accept. Under these circumstances. Major Hyrne, who was in the constant habit of visiting the Prison-Ships, informed the unfortunates in captivity, "that his efforts to relieve them, would, according to appearances, prove altogether abortive ; and that they must endeavour to support with patience and fortitude, the evils they were destined to endure." " But one hope remains," he added, "of bringing the business to a happy conclusion ; and the test shall be made without delay." Returning to his quarters, a note was sent to every British officer enjoying the benefit of a parole, (of whom there were, at that time, a very considerable number within the garrison) desiring that preparation should be made to accompany him, at an early day, to the country, as every effort to accomplish an exchange had proved fruitless ; and it could not be expected, that liberty should be longer granted to them, while men of the first character and highest respectability in the State, were subjected to all the miseries and inconve- niences of the most rigourous confinement. The effect of this notice was instantaneously per- ceptible. The doors of the Commandant were be- sieged by petitioners, (many of high rank and powerful connexions) soliciting him to relinquish his opinions ; and by relaxing, in due season, his severity, save them from the horrors and destruction which they deemed inevitable, should they be compelled, in the month of June, to remove into the sickly interior coun- try. Their clamour? and reiterated remonstrance'? 408 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. could not be resisted — the dictates of policy yielded before them. The terms of exchange were sj)eedily adjusted, and the gratified prisoners restored to liberty and their country. LIEUTENANT SAMUEL SELDON, OF VIRGINIA. This gallant officer commanded one of the advanced parties, when General Greene, after having invested the post at Ninety-Six for several weeks, determined to attempt its reduction by assault. At the signal ap- pointed to attack, Seldon entered the ditch of the principal work ; and while his right arm was raised with the intention of drawing down a sand-bag from the top of the parapet, a ball entering his wrist, shat- tered the bone of the limb nearly to the shoulder* For so severe a wound, the only remedy was amputa- tion. It is well known, that on such occasions, the operating Surgeon requires the assistance of several persons to hold the patient^s limb, and to support him. To this regulation Seldon would not submit. It was his right arm he was about to lose. He sustained it with his left during the operation, his eyes fixed steadily on it ; nor uttered a word, till the saw reached the marrow, when in a composed tone and manner, he said, *' 1 pray you, Doctor, be quick." When the business was completed, he feelingly exclaimed, " f am sorry that it is my right arm ; if it had been my left, the occasion would have caused, me to glory in the loss." He recovered and lived many years after- wards, the object of affection and esteem to all who had the good lor tune to know him. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 409 INSTANCE OF TARLETON'S SEVERITY. The advancement of a powerful and victorious army into the interior country, immediately subsequent to the fall of Charleston, caused many of the inhabi- tants, rather than witness the desolation of their pro- perty, to take protections. In the neighbourhood of Rocky Mount a young man named Stroud did so, but speedily repenting the dereliction of his duty to his country, resumed his arms in her defence. In a ren- counter with Tarleton, which happened immediately after, he was taken and instantaneously, without form of trial, hung up, in terrorem, on the public road, with a label attached to his back, proclaiming, — " Such shall be the fate of the man who presumes to cut him down." The body was thus exposed for upwards of three weeks, when an affectionate sister ventured out, performed the pious act, and gave the body interment. ADDITIONAL INSTANCES OF SEVERITY. From the same neighbourhood of Rocky Mount, an almost beardless youth, of the name of Wade, was seduced to enrol himself in the ranks of Tarleton's Legion. Repentance quickly followed his departure from duty, and he deserted with the hope of rejoining his family and friends. Fate forbade it. He was taken, tried, and sentenced to receive a thousand lashes, I need scarcely relate the sequel ! He expired under the infliction of the punishment ! The Anecdote which follows, was presented by a gentleman, intimately acquainted with Colonel For- rest, and as related bv him, giving a true picture of 410 MISCELLANIlOUS aisjecdotes. the times, appears worthy to be recorded. *' At the period of the war, when our Treasury was most ex- hausted, the men of my regiment became so refrac- tory from the want of pay, that I was compelled to resort to every shift and stratagem to keep them in necessary subordination. Necessity at last obliged me to enter into a compromise with them. I pledged myself, that if they would only promise to conduct themselves with propriety, and preserve the discipline essential to the well being of the army, during my absence, that I would personally apply to the Treasury, forcibly represent their grievances, and exert every energy to obtain the justice they required. My pro- posal was acceded to, and I quitted the regiment. Having, at the period, many friends in the Paymaster's Dei)artment, my representations were attended to, and through their kind attention I obtained a month's pay, according to the tenor of my request. Arriving in camp, I ordered my Regiment to be paraded, and candidly submitted to them the result of my negotiation. The entire corps expressed content and satisfaction, save only one individual, a son of Erin, who appeared to exhibit decided marks of extreme discontent. Dissa- tisfied with his conduct, and more highly irritated by his surly looks, I approached, and upbraiding him for his unreasonable behaviour, asked his motive tor show- ing such signs of discontent, while the rest of the Regiment, his comi)anion in arms, appeared cheerful and well pleased on the occasion. He sarcastically replied, — " Upon my salvation, my Colonel, and the honour of a true soldier, which I will be bound to say you have ever found me to be, I had not the least idea of being dissatisfied with your happy negotiation; God bless you, my jewel, for I am sure you have done as much for us, and more than any other, besides yourself, could have done any how; but I believe I was only sorry, a little, when 1 looked so highly provoked, that MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 411 your honour had not brought me an old razor instead of my rnonWspay^ that I mig;ht scrape my beard with, just to appear a little dacent on parade." How little the unfortunates, who had accepted Bri- tish protections, were to be depended upon, with what apathy they offered up their petitions to heaven for the prosperity of their Sovereign, and success of his arms, may be judged of from an incident that occurred in the Parish Church of St. James', Goose Creek. The Rev. Mr. Ellington, in the couse of service, praying, " That it may please thee to bless and preserve his most gracious Majesty, our Sovereign Lord King George," a dead silence ensued, and instead of the usual response, " We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord," a murmuring voice pronounced, " Good Lord, deliver us." While the administration of Great Britain were carrying on the war with ruthless severity, it appears to have been a constant object with them, to cherish the acknowledged prejudices of the Sovereign against his American subjects. That their effort was crowned with success, cannot be doubted, for such was the ab- horrence of the King to every invention deemed Ame- rican, that he ordered the sharp conductors recom- mended by Dr. Franklin, to be removed from Buck- ingham House, and blunt ones to be substituted in their place. On this occasion the following pointed Epigram appeared in one of the morning prints. '^ While you, great George, for knowledge hunt, And sharp conductors change for blunt, The nation 's out of joint ; Franklin a wiser scheme pursues, And all your thunder heedless views, By sticking to the point." 412 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. But in genuine point, and happy allusion to the pro- pensities of the monarch, no lines were offered to the public more severe than those which follow : "In eastern kingdoms, of the weakest man, With idiot Councils, rules the grave Divan, Nor there alone of late such wonders rest, But reach the confines of the enlightened west ; Where some dull leader, fixed, by partial fate, Now tarns a button — now overturns a State. Now for his boys a whistle carves in wood, Or signs a warrant for a nation's blood. The pi )ce of Kings, thus toymens' pupils take, And wield the sceptre they were born to make. Turn, cruel Pinchbeck,* lengthen yet thy score, And turn thy Monarch at one corkscrew more ; Lest England's sons, a game like thine should play,. Nor keep the workmen thou hast turned away." Even within the British garrisons, in the presence of the Commander in Chief, jests were indulged in, such as plainly evinced how faint the hope of a successful issue of the war. During an interval of dancing, at a splendid ball given by the officers of the army, to the ladies of New- York. Sir Henry Clinton, previously engaged in con- versation with Miss Franks, called out to the musicians, " Give us, Britons strike home." " The Commander in Chief has made a mistake," exclaimed the lady ; " he meant to say, Britons — go home.'^'^ MISS FRANKS. This intelligent and highly accomplisiied lady, in throwing the pointed shafts of her wit, spared neither friend or foe. Having mentioned the " palpable hit,'' * Pinchbeck was a toyman, and manufacturer of every species of knick knack. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 41S given to Sir Henry Clinton, it is hut fair to show, how keen her irony when aimed against the foes of Bri- tain. At the Mischianza, given at Philadelphia by the officers of the British army to Sir William Howe, pre- viously to his relinquishment of command, Miss Franks appeared as one of the Princesses, in supporting whose claims to superior beauty and accomplishment, the assembled Knights were to contend at a Tournament exhibited. The evacuation of the city immediately following. Miss Franks remained behind. Lieutenant Colonel Jack Steward of Maryland, whose previous intimacy with her, could alone justify the familiarity of his conduct, dressed out in a handsome suit of scarlet, taking an early occasion to pay his compliments, said to her in the true spirit of gallantry, " I have adopted your colours, my Princess, the better to secure a cour- teous reception — deign to smile on a true Knight. To this speech Miss Franks made no reply ; but turning to the company who surrounded her, exclaimed — ■ '' How the Ass glories in the Lion's skin." Nor was this the only rub experienced by the Lieu- tenant Colonel. While the company were enjoying themselves in lively conversation, their mirth was in- terrupted by loud clamours from the street, which occasioned them to hasten to the windows, the better to ascertain the cause. High head-dresses were then the reigning fashion among the British belles. A fe- male appeared on the street, surrounded by a crowd of idlers, ragged in her apparel, and bare-foot, but adorned with a towring head-dress in the extreme of the mode. Miss Franks readily perceived the intent of this tumul- tuous visit ; and on the Lieutenant Colonel's observing, that the lady was equipped altogether in the English fashion, replied, " Not altogether^ Colonel ; for though the style of her head is British, her shoes and stock- ings are in the genuine Continental fashion.'''^ 414 MILCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. There were very few men qualified to enter the lists with this intelligent lady — for her information was ex- tensive, and she had wit at will. She did, however, on one occasion, meet a superior, and appeared bereft of her brilliancy of talent, by receiving with anger, what was only intended as a sally to excite merriment. I allude to her correspondence with General Charles Lee, whose letter is but little known, and certainly possesses a stamp of humour that renders it worthy to be preserved. /^ GENERAL LEE's LETTER TO MISS FRANKS. " Madam, " When an officer of the respectable rank I bear, is grossly traduced and calumniated, it is incumbent on him to clear up the affair to the world, with as little delay as possible. The spirit of defamation and calumny (I am sorry to say it) is grown to a pro- digious and intolerable height on this Continent. If you had accused me of a design to procrastinate the war, or of holding treasonable correspondence with the enemy, I could have borne it : this I am used to ; and this happened to the great Fabius Maximus. If you had accused me of getting drunk, as often as I could get liquor, as two Alexanders the Great have been charged with the vice, I should perhaps have sat patient under the imputation ; or even if you had given the plainest hints, that I had stolen the soldiers shirts, this I could liave put up with, as the great Duke of Marlborough would have been an example : or if 3^ou had contented yourself with assert- ing that I was so abominable a sloven, as never to part with my shirt, until my shirt parted with me, the anecdotes of my illustrious name- sake of Sweden* would have administered some comfort to me. But the calumny you have, in the fertility of your malicious wit, chosen to invent, is of so new, so unprecedented, and so hellish a kind, as would make Job himself swear like a Virginia Colonel. ^^ Is it possible that the celebrated Miss FRANKS,t a lady who has had every human and Divine advantage, who has read, (or at least "* Charles 12th- t The young lady was a JewesSs miSCELLANEOUS ANECDOTCS. 415 might have read) in the originals, the New and Old Testaments^ (though I am afraid she too seldom looks even into the translations) I say, is it possible that Miss Franks, with every human and Divine advantage, who might, and ought to have read these two good books, which (an old Welch nurse, whose uncle was reckoned the best preacher in Merionethshire, assured me) enjoin charity, and denounce vengeance against slander and evil speaking ; is it possible, I again repeat it, that Miss Franks should, in the face of day, carry her ma- lignity so far, in the presence of three most respectable personages ; (one of the oldest religion in the world, one of the newest, for he is a New-Light Man, and the other, most probably, of no religion at all, as he is an English sailor) but I demand it again and again, is it pos- sible that Miss Fr.\nks should assert it, in the presence of these re- spectable personages, ^ that I wore green breeches patched with leather ?' To convict you, therefore, of the falsehood of this most diabolical slander, to put you to eternal silence, (if you are not past all grace) and to cover you with a much larger patch of infamy than you have wantonly endeavoured to fix on my breeches, I have thought proper, by the advice of three very grave friends, (lawyers and mem- bers of Congress, of course excellent judges of delicate points of honour) to send you the said breeches, and with the consciousness of truth on my side, to submit them to the most severe inspection and scrutiny of you, and all those who may have entered into this wicked cabal, against my honour and reputation. I say I dare you, and your whole junto, to your worst : turn them, examine them inside and outside, and if you find them to be green breeches patched with leather, and not actually legitimate Sherry Vallies,* such as his Ma- jesty of Poland wears, (who, let me tell you, is a man who has made more fashions than all your knights of the Mischianzat put together, notwithstanding their beauties) I repeat it, (though I am almost out of breath with repetitions and parenthesis) that if those are proved to be patched green breeches, and not legitimate Sherry Vallies, (which a man of the first hon ton might be proud of) I will submit in silence to all the scurrility which I have no doubt you and your abettors are * A kind of long breeches, reaching to the ancle, with a broad stripe of leather on the inside of the thigh, for the conveniency of riding. t An entertainment given to General Howe, just before his departure for Eu- rope, at which were introduced tilts and tournaments in honour of the ladies, 9f whom Miss Franks was one. 416 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. prepared to pour out against me, in the public papers, on this impor- tant and interesting occasion. But Madam ! Madam ! reputation, (as < Common Sense' very sensibly, though not very uncommonly, ob- serves) is a very serious thing. You have already injured me in the tenderest part, and I demand satisfaction; and as you cannot be ignorant of the laws of duelling, having conversed with so many Irish officers, whose favoiuite topic it is, particularly in the company of ladies, I insist on the privilege of the injured part}^, which is to name liis hour and weapons ; and, as I intend it to be a very serious affair, Avill not admit of any seconds ; as you may depend upon it Miss Franks, that whatever may be 3^our spirit on the occasion, the world shall never accuse General Lee of having turned his back upon you. In the mean time, I am yours, C. L. " P. S. I have communicated the affair only to my confidential friend, who has mentioned it to no more than seven members of Con- gress, and nineteen women, six of whom were old maids, so that there is no danger of its taking wind on my side, and I hope you will be equally guarded on your part.'' About the period of the final departure of the Bri- tish from New-York, an excellent repartee made by Major Upham, Aid-de-Camp to Lord Dorchester, to Miss Susan Livingston, has been much celebrated. *' In mercy, Major," said Miss Livingston, *' use your influence with the Commander in Chief, to accelerate the evacuation of the city ; for among your encarce- rated belles, your Mischianza Princesses, the scarlet fever must continue to rage till your departure." '' I should studiously second your wislies," replied the rdajor, '' were 1 not apprehensive, that freed from the prevailing malady, a worse would follow, and that they would be immediately tormented wilii the Blue Devils^ MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 417 SIR GUY CARLTON. While the gallant defence of Quebec by General Carlton, evinced the excellence of his military talents, and his liberal treatment of the vanquished did honour to his humanity, particular credit is due to him, for his skilful management even of the prejudices of the troops under his command. Apprehending, during the protracted sie^e, that the return of St. Patrick's Day would occasion the soldiers of the garrison, chiefly Irishmen, to indulge too freely in generous libations to the memory of the Patron Saint of Erin ; and that his vigilant adversary would profit by their intemperance to attack the town; in orders, issued on the 16th of March, he invited " All true Irishmen to meet him on the following day, at 12 o'clock, on parade, to drink the health of the King, St. Patrick's Day being, for that year only, put off till the 4th of June." An Irishman himself, and highly honoured by all who served under him, his proposition was applauded, and perfect sobriety reigned ; where, according to all for- mer experience, riot and disorder alone were to be looked for. CAPTAIN MILLIGAN. The esjmt clu corps, which so decidedly marks th«i attachment of military men to their companions in arms, was never more strikingly exhibited than on the occasion of which I am jiovv to speak On the 4th of July, 1798, while the Society of the Cincinnati were celebrating the Anniversary of the 53 418 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. Independency of the United States, a letter was de- livered to Major Lining, the Treasurer, a part of whose duty it was, to levy fines on absentees, and other de- faulters, from Captain Milligan, a Member of the Association. It was written in these words : '^ My Dear Major, " The Society, at its first formation, very properly imposed a fine upon every Member, who being within reach of the city, ne- glected to attend the celebration of the Birth Day of our Liberties. A fine too, to an equal amount, was imposed on every one, who on the decease of a Brother Soldier, neglected to pay due honour to his memory, by absenting himself from his funeral. I have a little to say on both subjects. On the verge of the grave, with scarcely strength to hold my pen, suffering under the affliction of extreme penury, I think it no degradation to state, that the Guinea which I forfeit this day, by non-attendance, while it can add but a trifle to your funds, will be essentially useful to my afflicted family. Let me hope, then, from the generous sympathy of your hearts, that the fine be, on this occasion, remitted. " And now, that my friends are collected to celebrate the event, the most propitious to the happiness of man that the world ever wit- nessed, permit me, while I offer my congratulations, wishing them much present enjoyment, and future felicity, to request, that as many of them as can make it convenient, will do me the honour to attend my funeral, which, from certain feelings not at all calculated to de- ceive, must necessarily happen within a very few days. Attention to this, my earnest solicitation, will not fail to sooth the last moments of your brother, and affectionate well-wisher, " T. MILLIGAN." Within a week Captain Milligan expired, justly and sincerely lamented. The Society, to a man, attended his funeral — they did more, they adopted and educated his orphan daughter, who married well, and is now happily settled in Ireland. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 419 ROMANTIC ENTERPRISE. The Anecdote which follows is given on the autho- rity of Mr. Samuel Brailsford, formerly of Bristol, in Great Britain. He was a native of South-Carolina, and enthusiastically attached to the American cause, which gained him the affection and confidence of all his youthful countrymen, who, at the commencement of the Revolutionary War, were pursuing their studies in Europe. Inspired with the most exalted admiration of Scoevola, and the Roman youths, who aimed, by the devotion of their lives, to give liberty to Rome, by cut- ting off Porsenna, its most formidable enemy ; an in- trepid enthusiast, in the year 1775 proposed, in an assembly of twenty of his countrymen, who had met in London, that each of them, in the disguise of a sailor, should enter on board of as many. different Bri- tish men of war, and pledge himself, by a solemn oath, within a limited time, to blow up the vessel in which he embarked. So desperate a scheme could only have originated in a mind deeply wounded by the injuries inflicted upon his country; and my knowledge of the noble and generous feeling of the mover, makes me bold to say, that in a moment of sober reflection^ he would have been the last to encourage it. The recom- mendation, however, was not received, at the moment, as he wished it to be. Some five or six of the com- pany approved it, and declared themselves ready to second his wishes, and give the pledge required; but by the majority, open generous hostility was preferred, and the project was abandoned. 426 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. M'GILL AND VAN SKIVER. I WOULD not, when speaking of the good conduct and meritorious services of several of the Legionary soldiers, in a former part of these Anecdotes, have in- troduced the names of the men I am now to mention, on any consideration. They belonged, it is true, to the corps, but their crimes far more than their talents or their virtues attracted attention; and they are noiO noticed merely to show, when once the path of honour is forsaken, to how great a degree human depravity can be extended. It must, however, be acknowledged that they were not equally atrocious in villainy; the errors of M'Gill were the result of intemperance ; Van Skiver's proceeded from consummate and boundless depravity. In giving an account of the ardour with which Lieutenant Colonel John Laurens sought, on all occa- sions, to encounter the enemy, I mentioned that a Bri- tish soldier, who had been whipped and drummed out of the 64th Regiment for intemperance, had, by care- lessly throwing his coat on a bush, endangered the life not only of that gallant officer, but of many of the most intrepid soldiers of the Legion, who swam the Ashley River, in the expectation of immediately engaging an ambuscaded force, whose position accident alone had betrayed. Some months after this, Sergeant Du Coin, of Ru- dolph's company, who had contrived to gain the affec- tions of a widow possessing considerable property, solicited his discharge, and was promised it, on con- dition of bringing forward four substitutes to supply his place in the Regiment. Captain Rudolph retiring, at the moment, to sick quarters, left it to my charge to examine the men who should be ofTered by Du Coin, MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 421 and, if approved, to brin^ the business to a close, cau- tioning me at the same time, to remember the strict injunctions of Lee, never to enlist a British soldier, a foreigner, or a drunkard. The substitutes were brought forward. Three line looking youths, recently dis- charged from the North-Carolina Line, the time of their service having expired, were examined, approved, and enlisted. A remarkably handsome man, of fine martial appearance, well dressed, and of a prepossess- ing countenance, now advanced, declaring himself a Pennsylvanian, of Irish parentage, who, ambitious to distinguish himself, had taken along journey purposely to see service. He looked and acted his part so admi- rably, that I was completely thrown off my guard, and enlisted him also, but had speedily the mortification to find, that I had so far departed from my instructions, as to have admitted into the corps a British soldier, a foreigner, and an habitual drunkard. His propensity to liquor was in a few days discovered, and on my re- primanding him for it, he, with undaunted insolence, exclaimed, '' You, Sir, are the last man who should find fault; for, at our first meeting, you may remember, that I frankly told you that I had been expelled with disgrace from the 64th British Regiment, because the the drummer's lash had lost all its terrors for me, when I could lay my hand on liquor. You saw that my flayed back would not admit the use of my coat, so that the error of my enlistment is altogether your own." I would not have wasted time on a subject so little important, w'ere it not to show, that even in minds the most debased, instances may occur of gene- rous feeling, that are creditable to human nature. M^Gill, by associating with men of regular habits, became daily more hlimanized, and was on the whole a good, though, occasionally, an irregular soldier. Captain James Grahame, of the British 64th Re- giment, married and settled in South-Carolina. It was 422 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. some time after the peace, that riding out unarmed, in the neighbourhood of his plantation, he was accosted by a man in military dress, with a naked bayonet in his hand, who stepping up in front of his horse, and seizing the bridle, said, " I suppose. Captain Grahame, you have no inclination to recognize an old acquaint- ance, particularly one so much the victim of your severity as I have been." " On the contrary, M'Gill," replied the Captain, *' 1 feel no inclination to deny my knowledge of you, — I remember you perfectly; and although 1 cannot misunderstand your present inten- tion, and am probably destined to fall by your hand, do not hesitate to tell you, what, as a soldier well acquainted with his duty, you know to be strictly cor- rect, that finding you drunk on your post, I brought you, and very properly, to punishment. The love of life can make no change in my sentiments. Were it to do over again, I would act as I have done." " And you would do right," said M'Gill, sheathing his bayo- net. "Captain Grahame, my resentments cease: I thought I never could have pardoned you ; but 1 now consider my enmity altogether unjust, my punishment and disgrace richly merited. Pass on; you need never more fear injury from me." Saying this he bowed and retired. Such a display of generous feeling encourages the hope of a return to virtue. But, I am now to speak of a character so completely abandoned, that from the freehand constant indulgence of vice, clothed in its darkest attributes, it appeared alone susceptible of re- ceiving delight and gratification. Van Skiver was a native of New-York, and private soldier in the corps raised by Colonel Buskirk, for the service of Great Britain. A Loyalist from convenience, it is probable that some flagrant irregularity had subjetc- ed him to the anger of his superiors; and that to avoid merited punishment, he had sought security by desertion. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 4^3 Arrived at the American camp, she showed so much of inveterate and deadly animosity against the friends whom he had abandoned, and spoke with such confi- dence of the practicability of injuring them by an attack upon their out-posts, that Lieutenant Colonel Lee was induced to listen to his plans with compla- cency, and ultimately to accede to his proposal, to attempt the carrying of the post at Paulus' Hook, by surprise. Entire confidence, however, was not placed in him. Armed with an axe, he was placed at the head of the advancing column, a file of men with fixed bayonets, following immediately in his rear, ready to terminate his existence, if he either faltered, or showed the slightest symptom of treachery. With steady step, and undaunted resolution, he advanced and actually cut down two barriers in succession, giving free admission to our troops into the body of the place ; a third, however, was still to be gained, which was defended with great resolution, and so heavy a fire kept up upon the assailants, that after many fruitless efforts to dislodge the enemy, they were compelled to retire. It might be imagined, that such a display of hostility against the British, might have caused Van Skiver to be ranked amongst the most determined of their enemies ; but, even at the moment, his appear- ance of zeal was merely intended as a lure, to gain respect and confidence, for he had scarcely returned to camp, when it was discovered, that he was in treaty, and actually far advanced in a plan, to deliver Lee and his Legion into the hands of the enemy. Severe was the penalty which he paid. Sentenced to receive five hundred lashes, he had the greater part of them inflicted, and was drummed out of tiie army. When again expressing decided attachment to the Royal Standard, he returned to New- York, and was heard of no more. 424 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. CAPTAIN LAND. In the year 1781, while Lord Rawdoii was in com- mand at Camden, and Sumter lay on the borders of North- Carolina, the male inhabitants of the intervening settlements, who were capable of bearing arms, re- sorted to one or the other, according to the political principles which they cherished. The Whigs in the neighbourhood of Rocky Creek, forty miles above Camden, having, previously to their joining Sumter, chosen John Land, a respectable resident, as their Captain, adopted a practice of occasionally visiting the settlement, to pass the night with their families, and return at early morn to can^p. On the evening of the 2d of March, Captain Land, with seven of his companions, arrived at his home, placed a sentinel at the door, and having for some hours enjoyed the so- ciety of his delighted family, retired to rest. The period of repose was but of short duration. The Tories had, by some unknown means, obtained infor- mation of his intended visit, and a party of them, thirty in number, under the command of a Captain Daniel Muse, arrived at midnight in the neighbour- hood, and having carefully secured all the old men and boys, likely to communicate intelligence, pushed on for Land's. When within about an hundred and fifty yards of the log-house which he inhabited, they were perceived by the sentinel at the door, who having hailed, fired on them. A momentary halt was made, and a guard being placed over their prisoners, two old men, a youth, and two boys, a furious charge was made on the house. The gallant inmates received them with firmness, kept up a lively fire through the open spaces betwixt the logs, and finally repulsed them, having previously mortally wounded Lieutenant MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 425 Lewis Yarboroush, the second in command. The Tory party taking up their line of march through woods and by-ways, now retreated, and moved with such celerity, as to reach the British Head-Quarters at Camden, by twelve o'clock the same day, carrying the youth and two boys, one of them, Dr. John Mackey, now an inhabitant of Charleston, as trophies of their prowess and gallantry. The old man and wounded officer, were left on the way. Poor Land did not long enjoy the triumph of this little victory. Emboldened by success, he ventured ia about three weeks on another visit to his family, ac- companied by betwixt twenty and thirty of his neigh- bours. The party reached Rocky Creek in the eve- ning, and having agreed to assemble at the house of one Boyd on the following day, dispersed each indi- vidual retiring to his own family. But, alas ! Trea- chery was again on foot. The enemy were apprized of every movement ; and Lord Rawdon having lost much of his confidence in his Tory auxiliaries, by the failure of their former essay, sent a detachment of his Regular Cavalry, united with them, to cut off Land and his followers. Their success, on this occasion, was but too complete. Many of the party were killed as they approached the place of rendezvous, and amon^ them the unfortunate Captain Land, who was butchered in cold blood, in revenge, no doubt, for the death of Yarborough, whom he had killed in just and honourable combat. 54 426 MISCELLAiNEOUS ANECDOTES. JUDGE BURKE. In sketching the character of this worthy citizen, I neglected to mention an Anecdote highly characteristic of his singular turn of mind, which I shall now briefly detail. A friend, with whom he lived in habits of the strictest intimacy, once observing, that he was tempted to engage in a law-suit, from the prospect of deriving very great advantage from its results ; the Judge, with great frankness, replied, " The time you take for de- liberation will not be lost, believe me, since to insure success, three things are essentially necessary. You must have a good cause, a good' Lawyer, and a good Judge." ** Then, my friend," said the would-be liti- gator, *^ I will proceed." " Be not too precipitate," rejoined the Judge, " for I forgot to mention another requisite to success — good luck,^"^ EXTRAORDINARY ESCAPE. During the siege cJf Charleston a shell from the British lines, fell on the tent occupied by two volun- teers,- Mr. Lord and Mr. Basqueen, who had, from excessive fatigue, retired to seek repose, and were at the moment buried in profound sleep. The explosion was violent: The body of Mr. Lord was wretchedly mangled, being torn literally to pieces. Mr. Basqueen escaped without injury ; for although the hair of his head was singed, his sleep was not disturbed; and when dragged from the ruins of the tent appeared altogether free from hurt* jVIISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 427 SERGEANT POWER. It is ever delightful to me to speak of a soldier as much distinguished by exemplary good conduct as Power, and therefore hope to be excused for mention- ing a very singular occurrence which took place while the Legi6n lay at Mrs. Legere's plantation, on the Santee. Mr. Power, afterwards promoted, but at the time a Sergeant in the cavalry, being reduced to ex- tremity by disease, and despaired of by the Surgeon of the Regiment, earnestly solicited that he might be allowed to eat a cucumber, many of which he recol- lected to have seen in the garden, previously to his con- finement. " Nature is exhausted," said the Surgeon, to the friends who surrounded him, *' he must inevita- bly die, — indulge his longing therefore, — give him a cucumber, but let it be a small one." The advice was attended to — Power received it with strong indication of joy, and immediately became so tranquil, that the guard, who had been greatly fatigued by watching over him, embraced the opportunity, and indulged in a refreshing sleep. Waking up at length, and finding the most profound stillness in the apartment, he ap- proached the bed, not doubting but that the unfor- tunate Sergeant had exi')ired, but his astonishment may well be imagined to have been excessive, when the sick man exclaimed, " I have got it, I have got it," and showed the remains of a half eaten cucumber, of an immense size, .that had been left for seed, and was now, from age, as yellow as gold. He had actually descended, while his attendant slept, into the garden, and brought off the prize, that, seen from his window? he declared had been the object of his constant and unconquerable desire. His recovery was rapid, and 428 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. much rejoiced at, for his talents and bravery did him honour; and to the end of the war he not only in- creased his own, but the reputation of his Regiment. PETITION OF THE LADIES IN CHARLESTON, IN BEHALF OF THE UNFORTUNATE COL. ISAAC HAYNE. In noticing the particulars of the capture, unmerited sufferings, and execution of this martyr to the cause of freedom, I should have recorded the petition presented, in his behalf, by the ladies of Charleston. The sen- te»ce that threatened his life, by all deemed harsh, and by many considered as having a greater tendency to excite revolt than to check it, called forth the most tender and compassionate feelings of the heart, and caused such general sympathy, that many even of the most decided enemies of the principles he supported, solicited its mitigation, or rather that it should be altogether annulled. Many of the Tory as well as Whig Ladies signed the petition of which I shall now give a few extracts. Had Lord Rawdon remembered that " Not the deputed sword, *' The Marshal's truncheon, nor the Judge's robe, " Become him with one half so good a grace '' As mercy does," humanity had triumphed, and they would not have tendered their prayers in vain. TO LORD RAWDON, COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE BRITISH FORCES IN SOUTH-CAROLINA, AND COLONEL BALFOUR, COMMANDANT AT charleston, " My Lord and Sir, " We should have reason to reproach ourselves, for having emitted a proper occasion of manifesting the tenderness peculiarly MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 429 ehamcteristic of our sex, if we did not profess ourselves deeply inte- rested and affected by the imminent and shocking doom of the most Unfortunate Mr. Hayne ; and if we did not intreat you, in the most earnest manner e^raciously to avert, prolong, or mitigate it. We pre- sume to make this intercession for him, from the knowledge of youi* dispositions, as well as from the reflection, that humanity is rarely separated from courage ; and that the gallant soldier feels as much reluctance, to cause by deliberate decrees, the infliction of death on men in cold blood, as he does ardour in the day of battle, and heat of action, to make the enemies of his country perish by the sword. He may rejoice to see his laurels sprinkled with the blood of armed and resisting adversaries ; but regret to see them wet with the tears of unhappy orphans, mourning the loss of a tender, amiable, and worthy parent, executed like a vile and infamous felon. To the praises of your military virtues and prowess, we trust you will give the Ladies occasion to add the praises of your milder and softer vir- tues, by furnishing them with a striking proof of your clemency in the present instance. To that clemency, to our prayers, and to his merits in other respects, let the unhappy object of our petition owe^ what you might not think him entitled to, if policy were not out- weighed in his behalf. To any other men in power than such as we conceive you both to be, we should employ on the occasion, more ingenuity and art, to dress up and enforce the many pathetic and favourable circumstances attending his case, in order to move your passions and engage your favour ; but, we think this will be need- less, as obviated by your spontaneous feeling, humanity, aiid liberal reasoning. Nor shall we dwell on his most excellent character, the outrages and excesses prevented by him ; nor lay any stress on the most grievous shock his numerous and respectable connexions must sustain by his death, aggravated by the mode of it ; nor shall we do more than remind you, of the complicated distress and sufferings that must befal liis young and promising children, to whom death would be preferable to the state of the orphanage they will be left in. " We are, my Lord and Sir, '" With all respect, your very anxious petitioners " And humble servants. 430 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES; DUEL BETWEEN GENERAL CADWALLADER AND GENERAL CONWAY. The particulars of this duel, orginating in the ho- » mourable feelings of General Cadwallader, indignant at the attempt of his adversary to injure the reputation of the Commander in Chief, by representing him as unqualified for the exalted station which he held, ap- pears worthy of record. Nor ought the coolness observed on the occasion by the parties, to be forgotten, as it evinces very strongly, that although imperious cir- cumstances may compel men of nice feeling to meet, that the dictates of honour may be satisfied without the smallest deviation from the most rigid rules of polite- ness. When arrived at the appointed rendezvous, Gen- eral Cadwallnder, accompanied by General Dickenson of Pennsylvania, General Conway by Colonel Morgan of Princeton, it was agreed upon by the seconds, that on the word being given, the principals might fire in their own time, and at discretion, either by an off- hand sliot, or by taking a deliberate aim. The parties having declared themselves ready, the word was given to proceed. General Conway immediately raised his pistol, and fired with great composure, but without effect. General Cadwallader was about to do so, when a sudden gust of wind occurring, he kept his pistol down and remained tranquil. " Why do you not fire, General Cadwallader ?" exclaimed Conway. " Because," replied General Cadwallader, ** we came not here to trifle. Let the gale pass, and I shall act my part." *' You shall have a fair chance of perform- ing it well," rejoined Conway, and immediately pre- sented a full front. General Cadwallader fired, and his ball entering the mouth of his antagonist, he fell directly forward on his face. Colonel Morgan run- MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 431 iiing to his assistance, found the blood spouting from behind his neck, and lifting up the club of his hair, saw the ball drop from it. It had passed through his head greatly to the derangement of his tongue and teeth, but did not inflict a mortal wound. As soon as the blood was sufficiently washed away to allow him to speak, General Conway, turning to his opponent, said good humouredly, " You fire, General, with much deliberation, and certainly with a great deal of eflfect." The calTs of honour satisfied, all animosity subsided, and they parted free from all resentment. EXPULSION OF CONGRESS FROM PHILADELPHIA. Some months subsequent to the signing of the pre- liminary articles of Peace, General Greene, in order to spare the Pennsylvanians the fatigues of a tedious march, and to save expense to the United States, en- gaged a letter of marque belonging to Rhode-Island, to transport two companies of that line to Philadel- phia. A change of climate being considered as neces- sary to the re-establishment of my health, which was, at that period, much impaired, I obtained permission to embark with them, promising to await the General's arrival in that city, where he expected to have much business to transact with Congress. We arrived at a most important moment. As our troops disembarked, a considerable number of mutineers of their own line, from Lancaster, surrounded the Hall of Congress, demanding the prompt settlement of their accounts, and threatening vengeance in case of refusal, or even an attempt to procrastinate the consideration of their claims. It was my misfortune to witness this outrage ; 432 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. ^ and to find, that too many of the men, who had re- turned with honour from the South, forsook their officers to join the disaffected, and support their un- warrantable proceedings. Violence whs now increased to so high a pitch, that General Hamilton, at the time a member of the National Legislature, having fruit- lessly endeavoured, by expostulation, to subdue the wrath of the revolters, and moderate the extrava^iance of their demands, joined his colleagues in the Hall of their deliberations, and calmly advised them " to think of eternity, since he confidently believed, that within the space of an hour, not an individual of their body would be left alive." *^ The supineness of the authorities of the State, under these circumstances, was the cause of gene- ral astonishment. It was said, that General Read, and many distinguished military characters, indignant at the treatment offered to the National Representatives, strongly urged the calling out of the militia, volun- teering their services, and pledging themselves, by a decisive blow, to restore tranquillity. Governor Dick- enson, however, was determined to avoid violent mea- stires ; and as danger was inseparable from delay, Congress, during the night, left the city for Princeton. The mutineers, with increasing insolence, now threa- tened to take the law into their own hands, and to satisfy their claims from the spoils of the Bank. The menace at once electrified every bosom ; and it ap- peared every man's concern, to render the threat abor- tive. The whole city were instantaneously in arms ; and in a few hours, the insurgents were either dis- persed or prisoners. To their honour it should be known, that Major James Hamilton of the 1st Penn- sylvania Regiment, recently arrived from the army of General Greene, and Captain Boud, who commanded the troops from the south, immediately landed, used every exertion to check these disgraceful proceedings. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 433 till frenzy increased to such a heigthr that to save them from assassination, their friends compelled them to retire. LIEUTENANT COLONEL BUTLER, OF morgan's rifle regiment. As some months would elapse before General Greene could reach Philadelphia, I gladly embraced the opportunity of visiting the interior country ; and at Lancaster, considered myself particularly fortunate in forming an acquaintance with Lieutenant Colonel Butler, at that period the Commandant of the post. His reputation as a military character, had already won my admiration ; his frankness, polite attentions, and generous hospitality, confirmed every preposses- sion in his favour. It was the cause of great astonishment, to hear a gentleman, the suavity of whose manners would have graced a Court, declare, " That to the simplicity of the savage life, he gave a decided preference over the modes of polished society ; and that he impatiently waited the definitive signing of a Peace with Britain, to repair to the wilderness, and resume habits pecu- liarly suited to his disposition." *' The ease and indo- lence," he would say, " which characterized Indian manners, when plenty abounded, the activity and enter- prise resorted to, to procure subsistence, and obtain comforts in times of necessity, had to him great fasci- nations ; and that, compared with them, the habits and uniform indulgences of polished society, seemed irksome and insupportable." 55 434 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. I have never been informed, whether or not he car= ried his schemes into execution ; though I rather suppose that he did not, for he married a young wife, and in the war against the Western Indians, which broke out very shortly after the conclusion of that of the Revolution, we find him in arms, an active Partisan, and second in command at the disastrous defeat of St. Clair. It was on this occasion, that the intrepid But- ler closed his military career in death — his coolness preserved, and courage remaining unshaken, till the last moment of existence. While enabled to keep the field, his exertions were truly heroic. He repeatedly led his men to the charge, and with slaughter drove the enemy before him ; but, being at length compelled to retire to his tent, from the number and severity of his wounds, he was receiving surgical aid, when a ferocious warrior rushing into his presence, gave him a mortal blow with his tomahawk. But even then the gallant soldier died not unrevenged. He had antici- pated this catastrophe, and discharging a pistol which he held in his hand, lodged its contents into the breast of his enemy, who uttering a hideous yell, fell by his side and expired ! COMMODORES AFFLECK AND SWEENEY. While waiting the arrival of General Greene at Philadelphia, I was introduced to the British Com- modores Afileck and Sweeney, by Captain Armstrong of the Legion, who had been treated by the latter, while a prisoner in Charleston, with marked attention; and gladly united with him, in using every exertion to render their visit interesting and agreeable to them. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 436 We accompanied them, in consequence of a polite invitation from Captain Barry, on a visit to the Al- liance frigate ; and on returning towards the shore, received a complimentary salute, for which they ex- pressed great thankfulness. Visiting Peale's Gallery of Portraits, where the like- nesses of the officers who had most distinguished themselves by their Revolutionary services, were pre- served, I could not but observe, that the attention of Sir Edmond Affleck was altogether engrossed by one head, which he appeared to regard with peculiar satis- faction ; and was not a little surprised to hear him say, " I know not who this portrait is intended to repre- sent ; but, however great the merits of others may be, I see no expression of countenance in the collection, that gives to me so perfect an idea of bold and in- flexible resolution." His correct discernment of cha-, racter, in this instance, is remarkable; anH it is a singular circumstance, that it was the oaly likeness of a Naval Hero in the Gallery. It was, in fact, the por- trait, and an admirable likeness, of Paul Jones. RECEPTION OF GENERAL GREENE AT PHILADELPHIA. Nothing could be more flattering to a man ambitious to merit the esteem of his fellow citizens, than the reception given to General Greene by the inhabitants of Philadelphia. As soon as his approach to the city was announced, all the military officers of rank, and many of the most distinguished patriots and citizens in the Civil Department, went forward to meet him. He was conducted to his quarters through crowded 436 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. Streets, where every window was thronged with beauty, and welcomed by looks of grateful admiration, and a a respectful silence, more flattering by far than the applauses of noisy vociferation. These, however, were not altogether withheld; and when (as he entered the Hotel) I heard the shout of " honour to the victor of the South — long life to Greene," I thought his triumph complete. There was no attention that merit could call for, or gratitude bestow, which was not lavished on him for the short period of his stay in the city. But Congress were within a short distance, and anxious to pay his respects, and to answer any inquiries that might be made relative to the conduct and final dismissal of the Southern Army, General Greene continued hi?; route to Princeton. EETING WITH THE COMMAPsDER IxX CHIEF. At Colonel Coxe's, at Trenton, I was gratified by \vitnessing an interview which I must ever remember with delight. On entering the house, General Greene had the happiness to find that the Commander in Chief, who had escorted Mrs. Washington so far on her way to V.irginia, had arrived but a few minutes before him. It would be altogether impossible for me, to give even a faint idea of the joy that animated the intelligent countenances of these great men, so sincerely attached, and so unexpectedly brought together. The one intel- ligibly spoke the grateful feelings of an honourable man for the friendship which had advanced him to command, the other the admiration of the valour and prudential conduct which had so fully justified his MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 4S7 recommondation. In every look, in every word, the strongest indications of reciprocal and afifectionate regard was manifested; and I feel conviction that neither the one or the other had ever experienced sen- sations of more exalted delight. THE EFFECT OF PEACE ON THE SOLDIERS' CONSE- QUENCE IN SOCIETY. I AM now about to relate an Anecdote, which, how- ever lightly it may be thought of at this time, plainly shows that disrespect and ingratitude have too often been manifested towards military men, when their ser- vices were no longer in requisition. General Washington and General Greene, on the day following their fortunate meeting, set out for Princeton. On their arrival there, the Secretary of the President of Congress presented himself, with a re- quest from Mr. Boudinot, who held that honourable station, that all ceremony should be waved, and that the Generals, with the gentlemen of their respective families, would partake of an entertainment then serv- ing up. The invitation being accepted, the whole party repaired to the Presidential house. Compliments passed, and dinner announced. The President placing himself between the Generals, led the way to the eat- ing room. An individual, a Mr. H , who certainly possessed much more of the affectation than reality of politeness, now took it upon himself to do the honours of the house, and turning to one of the company, said, *' Mr. R , Member of Congress, you are next the door, pray go forward. Mr. Z , Member of Con- gress, 'tis your turn — go forward, if you please." — Thus he went on. till all the gentlemen in the Civil 43B MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. Department had gone forward : and then (being a Member of Congress himself) quitted the room, leav- ing General Kosciusko, Colonel Maitland, Major Ed- wards, the Adjutant General of the Southern Army, and the Aids-de-Camp of General Greene, to find their own way to the table. Such conduct is no novelty. Soldiers, as I have already stated, are estimated accord- ing to their immediate utility. Let their exertions be wanted, and they are sure to command universal '^iiieTl'' tion- The danger past, they are too frequently for- gotten. I have a tale in point to show, that the same dispo- sition prevailed ill former times, as at the period 1 speak of. An English officer passing through the County of York, during the Rebellion which broke out in Scot- land in the year 1745, was received and treated with peculiar kindness by a Quaker, who, at the moment of his departure, said to him, " Go forward, friend, smite thy opponents, crush rebellion ; and on thy return, re- member to tarry with him, who regards thee as one of the Pillars of the Nation." The hopes of the Pre- tender, extinguished by the decisive victory of Co- lodden, the Englishman ordered to the South, and ])assing near the habitation of his kind entertainer, did not forget the cordiality with which he had been pressed, to repeat his visit, and repaired to the house of the Quaker ; but, with a look that gave little indi- cation of hospitality, or even acknowledgment of for- mer acquaintance, the starch hypocrite exclaimed — " Retire, friend, I know thee not." *' Not know me," said the officer. ** Why when last we parted, you not only pressed me to return to you when the Rebellion should be extinguished, but assured me, moreover, that you regarded me as one of the Pillars of the Nation." " Did I so ?" rejoined the Quaker ; " then, trust me, MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 4^9 friend, 1 must have meant one of the Ccitter pillar s.'^'' My tale needs no comment. DISTINGUISHED CHARACTERS. Writing with professed intention to excite in the bosoms of my young countrymen, the ambition to emulate their ancestors, in the display of patriotic virtue, I cannot be considered incorrect while recalling to remembrance the names of the heroes and states- men pre-emmew^/y distinguished, if I, at the same time, bring inlo view the exemplary good conduct of other citizens, who, in an humbler sphere of usefulness, by the steadiness of their principles, and unremitted exer- tions, contributed to the accomplishment of our Inde- pendency, and the establishment of that happy govern- ment which is at once the envy and admiration of the world. To a stranger arriving in our State, and naturally inquiring, " which are the families, who, in the day of trial, rendered the most essential services to their coun- try ?" would it not be criminal to say, " the current of subsequent events have consigned them to oblivion !" Would it not appear the perfection of injustice and in- gratitude? I should certainly pronounce it such ; and with sensations of far greater delight and exalted en- thusiasm, proclaim, — *' When the power of Britain was predominant in the land, when the current of their successes had swept away almost every barrier to the tyranny which the commanders of her armies appeared determined to impose, when hope was lost to the timid and the wavering, and even to the most sanguine the prospect of success but glimmered at a distance, there were not wanting exalted spirits, in whose bosoms despondency could find no p/ace,-— who never despaired 440 MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. of the ultimate triumphs of the cause of liberty Smd their country." The Barnwells, Bees, Butlers, Hey- vv^ards, Hugers, Pinckneys, Richardsons, Rutledges, Shubricks and Taylors, were distinguished by conduct uniformly correct. Nor less so the Warleys, who gave four sons to the Continental service; the Alstons, Canteys, Cattells, Edwards', Elliotts, Gibbes', Gray- sons, Hamptons, Hardings, Holmes', James', Legares, Postells, Prioleaus, De Saussures, Simons', Starks, Talbirds, Vanderhorsts, Witherspoons, and Waties', who furnished as many zealous supporters of Revoluc tionary principles, as there were individuals among them capable of bearing arms, or qualified to guide the councils of the nation. That many others are equally entitled to be mentioned with honourable dis- tinction, is most certain; I have merely enumerated such as most forcibly recur to memory, and where an omission exists, it is certainly not from intention, as it is my most ardent wish to give the praise of patriotic firmness to all who are deserving of it. There are many individuals also, who should be named with marked respect. There was not in the Continental service, an officer who performed every duty with greater alacrity and exactitude, than Major Simeon Theus. At the com- mencement of the war, when the funds of the Treasury of the State were at a low ebb, and the example of patriotic citizens was necessary to give them support and stability, he sold his patrimonial estate, and lent the proceeds to the government. When the war was concluded, appointed to settle all accounts between the State and the government of the United States, he per- formed the duty so much to the satisfaction of the public, that the Legislature made him an offer of an additional compensation of one thousand dollars, but he at once refused to accept it, declaring, that he had MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 441 set what he considered a fair price on his time and his labour, and if it was his happiness to have given satis- faction, he was more than i)aid. I would mention, with particular commendation, both Major and Captain Postell. Detachecl by Gene- ral Marion across the Santee, in the year 1781, with the command of a small number of mounted militia, they first destroyed a very considerable quantity of valuable stores at Manigault's Ferry, and in the vicinity, and then attacking the British post at Monk's Corner, destroyed fourteen wagons loaded with sol- diers' clothing and baggage, besides other articles of value, and made prisoners of forty regulars, effecting the whole service without the loss of a man. ■ On the 20th of August, 1780, immediately subse- quent to the disastrous battle of Camden, information being received by General Marion, that a guard, with a part of the prisoners taken by Lord Cornvvallis, were on the road in their way to Charleston, he detached Colonel Hugh Horry, with sixteen men, with orders to attack the escort, and attempt the deliverance of the captives. This was promptly and effectually done by the gallant Colonel. Twenty-two British regulars, a Captain and subaltern of their Tory adherents, were taken, and one hundred and fifty soldiers of the Con- tinental Line of Maryland, liberated, with the loss of one man only, and an officer wounded. Cornet James Simons, of Washington's, detached with eleven regular cavalry, and twenty-five mounted militia, drove General Cunningham, who was at the head of one hundred and fifty Torjes, from a strong position near Ninety-Six, where theie was a consider- able depot of forage, provision, and stores, for the use of the British army, with much plundered property, 56 442 MILCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. the reward of their own toils; and having destroyed the whole, rejoined his Regiment without loss. This gallant soldier, at the battle of Eutaw, gained new honours by his intrepid exertions, but in the contest for victory was twice severely wounded. The history of Marion's Campaigns, recently pub- lished by the honourable Judge James, who served under his banners, renders it altogether unnecessary to speak of many gallant achievements that he has fully detaiii^d. It is grateful to me, however, to express my admiration of the partial endurance of misfortunes, of privations before unheard of, and of gallantry not to be surpassed, exhibited by the Colonels Hugh and Peter Horry, Colonel Mayham, the Majors Conyers and James, the Captains M'Cauley, Cooper, M'Cottry, James, Gavin Witherspoon, and many others. The late General Fishburn, wounded when in the Continental service at Stono, commanded, with dis- tinction, at a subsequent period, a corps of horse, and throughout the entire war was esteemed for ardent and unshaken patriotism. Governor Paul Hamilton ren- dered a most essential service to his country by giving, in early youth, a laudable example of firmness, that neither danger nor difficulty could ever subdue. In short, in every division of the State, individuals ac- quired celebrity, and achievements were accomplished highly worthy to be recorded, as increasing the glory of the nation. Many I fear are already lost, and still more likely to rest in perpetual oblivion. My effort to obtain information, particularly from the interior coun- try, has not met with the success that I had anticipated. It is true, the period for receiving it has been very limited, for previously to the month of June last, I had not written a line. Great is my hope, that better for- tune may crown the exertions of some future writer. MISCELLANEOUS ANECDOTES. 443 and enable him to show, that, in as high a degree as compatible with the attainments of human nature, the characteristic features of the sons of Carolina have been strongly marked by perseverance, and intrepid resolu- tion to obtain success, moderation and generous feel- ing in the use of it. CONCLUSION. In detailing the Anecdotes contained in the volume which I now offer to the Public, I have repeatedly, with pride and exultation asserted, that in the display of generous feeling towards the enemy whom they had subdued, the Soldiers of America had distinguished claims to applause. My opinions are not speculative, but supported by i)roofs incontrovertible. 1 trust, that with justice it can never be said of me, that blinded by party zeal, I considered the palm of excellence ex- clusively possessed by the advocates of Revolutionary principles. I solemnly declare, that making sincerity and the pure dictates of conscience the test of opinion, I readily grant, that proper credit is to be allowed to the supporters of opposite tenets, steadily adhering to them. I have, in my encomiums, done no more than justice to the forbearance and merciful disi)osition of the military ; but, I am far from thinking, that they alone are entitled to applause ; and consider it a tribute to justice to state, that in the Councils of the Nation, there was a magnanimity displayed, that to our Legis- lators give a decided claim to equal honours. Before J more particularly speak my own senti- ments, I will present an extract from the Oration of Mr. Benjamin Elliott, pronounced before the '76 Asso- ciation on the 4th of March, 1813, which strikingly evinces, that however highly excited the resentments CONCLUSION. 445 of the nation, its magnanimity was still superior to them : " The passions and the ignorance of the people, it is thought, hRve fated a short existence to our freedom. This opinion is not based on the American character. During our Revolutionary calamities, when hope was beat down, and injuries were most unkind, a heartless gang of domestic felons, under the appellation of Tories, rose against the people. There was no atro- city they did not perpetrate — no aggravation they did not add to distress. Did you see the cinders of the poor man's dwelling ? Who destroyed it ? The Tory ! Was the rich man pillaged because he prefer- red his country to his wealth ? Who stole his pro- perty ? The Tory ! Was the stern Patriot insulted ? Who inflicted the indignity ? The Tory ! Yet, after the success of Liberty, it was advised, that wrongs should be forgiven, and this justly execrated enemy viewed as brethren. The American people acquiesced, and have enforced every provision of that Godlike amnesty. The Patriot does nut enjoy one benefit from the Revolution^ which has not been extended to the Tory, Fact, therefore, and not speculation, has de- termined, that there is no animosity, however obsti- nate, no passion, however powerful, which the Ame- rican people will not vanquish, when demanded by their country's good." That the provocation to severity was great, cannot' be denied. That it was sensibly felt by those who writhed under the afflictions of unmerited i)ersecution, is equally true. The decrees of the Jacksonborough Assembly, unequivocally proclaimed the irritation arising from it. But, as a Carolinian, I am proud to say, that with returning Peace, moderation and lenity regained their wonted influence. Congress recom- mended the removal of the punishments denounced against political oifenders : and the Legislatures of the 446 CONCLUSION. different States, seconded their wishes by a prompt and generous acqiiiscence with them. In South-Carolina, scarcely a trace was left of the penalties originally imposed on the disaffected. And although the State laboured under great difficulties, from an imniense load of debt contracted during the war, according to Dr. Ramsay, whose statements were ever strictly correct, " confiscated property in actual possession of the Commissioners, to the amount of nearly five hundred thousand pounds sterling," was generously restored. Long since has every recollection of the pride and insolence betrayed in the hour of success, and the injuries heaped upon them by their oppressors, been extinguished in the Patriot's bosom ; and every asperity softened down by the beneficent spirit of conciliation. The feuds of Whig and Tory have been completely extinguished. Pardon has been extended even to the most obnoxious. They have not only been tolerated, but treated with a kindness that could not have been looked for ; and had every disqualification removed that might impede their progress, aspiring to the at- tainment of confidence and esteem. " Silent oblivion, joyed to wipe away " The record of their madness and their crimes ; " And in the stead of wrathful vengeance, claiming ''' The penalties her due> came reconciling Mercv." FINIS. ERRATA. Page 27, line 34, ^ -- 12, 29, 32, 44, 48, 79, 142, 203, 230, 2.56, 265, 290, 322, 335, 346, 39R. 10, 16, 25, 31, % 25, 31, 33, 25', 10, 18, 29, 23. for /used, r( foi' hoingy for acquiremtnts^ for reach, for Eu/iu^ disorderly, after Pierce, after professors, for loyalist, for has, for engagements, after Fox, for hold, for Eaton, for Anserut, for Granny Creek, for reoeu'jng-. refused. hoping. achievements. research. Eufin. disordered. was. and. loyalists. had. capitulations. an Etonian. holds. Eton. Auderat. Gum Swamp > received. UST OF SUBSCUIBEUS. In Charleston. LADIES. Blake, Margaret Burnet, E. W. Elliott, Amarintha Elliott, J. G. 2 copies. Edwards, R. E. Edwards, Mrs. Major Ferguson, Ann F inlay, Mary Fossin, Martha Gibbes, Sarah, 2 copies. Gibbes, Ann Gibbes, Frances D. Gibbes, Maria Grimke, Mary Grimke, Angelina Grimke, Sarah D. Horry, Harriet, 2 copies. Hazlehurst, Elizabeth Hall, Daniel Izard, Alice Izard, Elizabeth Izard, Claudia Irvine, Mary Keith, Susan B. Laurens, Eliza Lightwood, Eliza Lining, Mary Manigault, M. J. M'Call, Elizabeth Mitchell, Ann E. Morris, Ann Osborn, Catharine Parker, Elizabeth Alston Pringle, Susan Pringle, Ann A. Pringle, Mary Rutledce, Mary 57 Rutledge, Harriet P. Sebring, Caroline S. Smith, Alary Smith, M. W. Smith, Ann S. Smith, Mary N. C. Smylie, Susannah Stock, Margaret Shubrick, Mary Thompson, Ann Van Rhyn, A. E. Wainwright, Ann Washington, Jane Wragg, Elizabeth Adams, D. L. Adger, James Addison, ThomaJg Alanson, Rice Alexander, David Alexander, S. Aiken, William Allen William Ancrum, Jame>s Ash, John S. Ashe, Samuel Ashby Thomas Axson, John Axson, Jacob Auld, Isaac, Dr. Bowen, Right Rev. NatliaifleJ Bay, Hon. Judge Bay, John Bacot, Thomas W. Bacot, Henry H. Bacot, Daniel D- Ball, John, 460 SUBSCRIBERS NAMES« Ball, Isaac Bankhead, Colonel Jame^ Babcock, Wm. R. Bailey, W. E. Bailey, Henry Baker, R. B. Bamfield, T. Banks, Charles Bee, Thomas Bee, Barnard Bennett, Joseph Bennett, John S, Bennett, W. S. Berry, Capt. Arthur, De Berrier, William Bernie, George Black, Alexander Black, David Blamyer, William B, Hy. Blake, J. H. Boylston, Dr. Bonneau, John E. Bonneaii, Sims Boyce, Ker Bounetheau, Henry B^ Brisbane, William Boucheneau, Charles Brown, Alexander Brown, Charles Browne, Robert C. Bryan, Colonel Brailsford, Dr". Brailsford, William M> Broughton, Philip Bulow, C. Bulow, Major J. J. Burrill, J. E. Burgoyne, Dr. William Bm-ke, M. M. Hall Burden, Kinsey Burckmyer, Cornelius Burckmyer, J. C. Capersy Charles G. Cattell, Capt. 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Dorrel, Robert Drayton, Hon. Judge Drayton, Colonel William Drayton, Thomas Drayton, William Henry Dunkin, B. F. Dyson, Abraham Eckhard, Jacob Eckhard, Geo. B, Eckhard, John F. Edwards, Dr. C. L. Edwards, George Edwards, James F. Edwards, Edward Edmonston, C. Egleston, G. W. Elfe, Isaac Elliott, Stephen Elliott, Benjamin EUiott, R. E. Enslow, J. L. Esnard, P. Fayolle, Peter Farr, John Flemming, Thomas Flagg, George Ferguson, Dr. Samuel Ferguson, James Fife, J. Ford, Jacob Ford ham, Richard Franks, L. P. Eraser, Charles Eraser, Frederick G. Eraser, John Eraser, John G. Furman, Richard B. Furman, Joseph Furman, C. M. Gadsden, John Gadsden, Thomas Garden, Alexander Gault, Thomas ' Gcddes, General Gervais, Rev. Paul T, Gaiiiard, Peter Gaillard, Daniel H. Gaillard, A. S. Gaillard, Alfred Gibbes, William II. Gibbes, Robert R. Gibbes, Lewis L. Gibbes, G. M. Gibbes, Robert M. Gibbes, James Gibbes, John R. Gibbes, Mathurin G. Gillon, Alexander Gilchrist, Robert B. 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Lee, Thomas Lesesne, Peter Legare, James Legare, Thomas Legai^e, John D. Legare, John Berwicli Legare, Francis Legare, Hugh S. Legare, J. Basnett Legare, Thomas, jun.- Levy, L C. Lewis, John Leaumont, Robert Lining, Edward Lining, Charles Lindsay, William Lockwood, Joshua, jun. Logan, William Lord, Archibald Lord, Richard Lowndes, Thomas^ Lowndes, James Lynah, Edward Lynah, James Lucas, William Mackey, Dr. John Magwood, Colonel S, M^Kinney, C. SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 453 Mairs, Simon M'Clareyj Samuel Manigault, Joseph Manigault, Major Henry MassiaSj Major U. S. A. M'Pherson, Colonel James Marshall, Thomas C. Martin, William Martin, Robert Matthews, John R. Maxwell, R. Maxwell, William R. MaynardjDr. Maybank, Joseph Mazyck, N. B. Mey, F. C. Mey, Charles S. Miller, Abraham Miller, William H. Miller, W. C. Miller, James A. Miller, John Miller, George Miller, A. E. 5 copies. Milligan, Joseph Milligan, Thomas Middleton, Arthur Middleton, Arthur, jun. 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Pringle, Robert Pringle, Robert Alexander Primerose, Robert Prioleau, Colonel John C. Prioleau, Dr. P. G. Prioleaui Dr. Thomas Prioleau, Samuel Price, WiUiam Price, Thomas Pratt, John Quash, Robert Ralston, Robert Ramsay, Dr. John Ramsay, David Ramsay, James Ravenel, Henry Ravenel, John 454 SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. Read, Dr. William Read, Harleston Reid, George Reeves, iEneas S. 2 copies Re3'nokls, Benjamin Righton, John JM. Richardson, Hon. Judge Rivers, John Rivers, George Royer , Robertson, William Robertson, John Robinson, Alexander Rouse, William Rouse, James W. Rose, Hugh, 2 copiers Rose, James Rose, John Rogers, John Roach, E. Roach, William Roux, Lewis Rowand, C. E. Rout, W. G. Rutledgc, Frederick Rutledge, John Rutledge, Edward Rapelye, Jacob Ryan, L. Rhodes, John Sass, Jacob Seeger, Charles Se bring, Barnet Saltus, Capt. Sinclair, William Sinclah-, Alexander Sinclair, William, U. S. N, Schnierie, John M. Skinner, Lewis SiJiions, Keating Simons, William Simons, Edward P. Simons, Thomas Grange Simons, Thomas Y. Shroudy, W. B. T. Shoolbred, John Slawson, Nathaniel Silliman, John IL Le Signeur, Dr. Shand, Peter Shields, Henry Smith, Josiah Smith, T. Rhett, 2 copies Smith, William Mason, 2 copies. Smith, Capt. Peter Smith, Skirving Smith, R. D. Smith, Thomas jun. Smith, Benjamin B. Smith, Robert Smith, W. S. Smith, Benjamin Rhett Smith, James H. Smith, Thomas M. Smhh, William, jun. Stephens, Dr. AV. S. Street, Thad. Stent, John Stevens, Col. Daniel Schutt, L. H. C. Strohecker, John Spring, John Stewart, Robert Suau, Peter Steedman, C.J. Snowden, W. E. Stoney, John Stevens, J. Henry Sifly, Henry Taylor, Josiah Taylor, Lieut. U. S. A, Taylor, Richard Teasdale, Richard Thayer, E. Tschudy,Rev. J.J. Telfer, Edward Thompson, J. Tennant, C. Theus, S. Timothy, P. Thorn, John Thomas, James Trescot^ Henry Toomer, Joshua W. Trapier, Paul Trapmann, L. Trenholm, William Tunis, C. H. Tucker, C. S. Turnbull, Robert J. SUBSCRIBERS NAMES. 455 Tunno, Adam Tuimo, Dr. J. C. Tidvman, Dr. Valk, J. R. De Villers Vanderliorst, Elias Vanderhorst, Richard Washington, WiUiam Warley, Charles Warley, Dr. WiUiam W^atts, Beaufort T. Warins:, D. J. Waring, Col. M. A. Watson, James A. Westendorff, C P. L. White, J. B. White, John Wesner, Frederick Weyman, Joseph T. Whaley, W. S. Whilden, Joseph Wilkie, WiUiam R. Wigfall, John A. WigfaU, Thomas, sen. WigfaU, Thomas, jun. Winthiop, Frederick Wilkins, G. M. WUson, Major John Wilson, John L. WUson, Rev. WiUiam Wilson, J. H. Wilson, Dr. S. Wilson, Dr. J. M. Wilson, S. jun. Wilson, A. H. WiUington, A. >S. Wright, J. J. Wood, James Yates, Jeremiah A. Yeadon, Richard MoultrieviUc.^ J. B. I^On, Intendant Gen. Thomas Pinckney John ^liddleton Timothy Ford WiUiam Carson. John Wilkes Daniel M'Caulav Dr. Raoul fienry Inglcsby D.Lamb, jun. Capt. R. B. Baker C. C. Pinckney, jufl. Beaufort. John G. Barnwell Edward Barnwell WiUiam Barnwell Robert VV. BarnweU John iM. Baker Paulus J. BeU Paul H. Barns WiUiam Burke Archibald Baynar' ^\ * .\^ •> ^^ J^i ^< ,^^^ ^^- <^' .V , X ^ /\ V ■'^■. ^^