116 Journal and Correspondence

C. S. C.

cial as mutinying, many of our people, some whole companies
have returned. I believe could we have got arms in a day
or two we should have raised upwards of 1500 men. I have
understood the Congress have some arms at Baltimore or
Chester, and I think you had best get as many of them as you
can for those of the militia who may march under the last
requisition for you may depend if they stay here any time the
same answer will prevail with them as with the Frederick
militia. While I am writing this some officers call on me to
let me know another company to about 6 or 8 privates have
broken off. As many militia as possible ought to avoid call-
ing here at all. The small Pox is very rife and every thing is
prodigious dear. There can be no great dependance on
equipments or supplies here, if those who come are partly
fitted I think they had best proceed, for Gen^l Washington to
prevent a continuance of the shameful embezzlement of arms,
has lately stopped all that belong to the Public, on the dis-
charge of the Militia, so that he can as he says, partly supply
those who go in. Some of our people have been 6 weeks and
some 4 from home already not only inclined, but necessity will
urge their return. I shall have difficulties on that head, for
whatever you may hear of the great numbers with Genl.
Washington he ought to be strengthened. We have nothing
very material from Camp. I am afraid we can expect no
great things from New York. The Enemy are kept pretty
close in the Jerseys. The war is carried on pretty much by
small scouting parties on our side, and they often take some
prisoners, 16 British were brought here on Sunday, taken
within about a mile of Brunswick, as they were going out
without arms to plunder. I am told the duty of the regulars
is very severe from very frequent attacks on their pickets &c.
Gen^l Gates has sent off a fine regular Battalion (M^cCoys) this
morning. Tomorrow he and I set out for the Camp.
I am Gent, Your most obedient humble Serv^t
Th. Johnson Jun^r
The Honble Council of Safety of Maryland

[Cecil Co. Committee to Council.]

Gentlemen. Committee of Cecil County Feb^y 4^th 1777.
This committee acknowledge the receipt of a letter from
you of the 26^th ult inclosing a resolve of Congress of the 21^st.
This committee will do every thing in their power to expedite
the marching of the militia of this county to reinforce Gen^l
Washington, but are of opinion that a sum of money must be
sent us for the Support of the militia on the road and to
advance some poor men who may want necessarys before