Copy of a letter from
Colonel Sumpter to General Gate, dated Wateree ferry, August
15th 1780.
Dear General,
I HAVE just time to inform you, that early this morning I
took possession of all the passways over the Wateree river,
from Elkins' ford to Mr. Whitear's ferry, five miles below
Camden. The enemy had guards at many different places upon
the river, all of which were evacuated last night or this
morning, and the guards ordered into Camden, except those at
Wateree ferry, which was continued on both sides of the
river, of which the guard upon the west side was surprised
by a party of my men, who killed seven, and took about
thirty prisoners, among which was Colonel Cary, the
commander, together with thirty-eight waggons, loaded with
corn, rum, &c. also a number of horses: The boats are
all upon the opposite side of the river; the ground upon
this side is very bad; the enemy keep up a constant fire,
but I have received no damage yet. I intend to keep
possession if I can, until I am honoured with your
excellency's farther command. I should not have been so
precipitate in my movements, but foresaw the excessive
disadvantage that would result from their having the
communication open, whereby they were constantly receiving
both men and provisions.
The number of troops, regulars I mean, do not exceed two
thousand, and not as many as one thousand of the militia,
who are generally sickly, and much dispirited. There is a
reinforcement said to be on the road from town, which will
arrive in two days, the number about five hundred.
As soon as possible, will give you an account of what is
passing.
I am, dear general,
With the greatest respect,
Your excellency's most obedient,
Humble servant,
THOMAS SUMPTER
His Excellency General Gates.
P. S. I have the pleasure to inform your excellency, that I
have this instant made about seventy prisoners, all British,
six waggons, baggage, &c. just from Ninety Six; many of
the prisoners are sick.
(From A History of the Campaigns of 1780 and 1781, in the
Southern Province of North America?, by
Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, pp147-148.)
Tarleton, Ch 2., [N], p. 147
8/15/1780
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