of the Council of Maryland, 1777-1778. 491

[Beatty to Gates.]

Frederick town Feb^y 5^th 1778.
Sir.
I take the Liberty to enclose M^r James Hepburns Letter to
your Secretary, and a Petition to your Honorable Board.
Since M^r Hepburn's arrival, he has been much afflicted with a
Rhumatic Disorder, and in my opinion, will not be able to
travel for some time. He has behaved himself during the
time he has been under my direction very well. The Prison-
ers of War now under my direction at this place, are very
bare of Cloathing, part of them have behaved well, if the
hon^ble Board would permit me to let them, who, have behaved
well, out to work they could get themselves some little neces-
saries, & be of great use in the neighbourhood of this place ;
Then, I could manage the turbulent, much better. I have
had a great deal of trouble with the last party of Prisoners
that came to this place.
The Militia of this County refuse to stand guard any longer,
knowing, there is no power to compel them, except the
Assembly. I cannot blame the whole of the Militia for part
have served several times with alacrity, but finding the whole
duty, must lay on a few, they have resolved to do no more
than their share, which has put me under the disagreeable
necessity of being turnkee, & Guard, myself.
Except, a Continental Quarter Master, is appointed for this
place, in order to provide Forage & Waggons, the marching
of Troops through, will be much impeded.
I have done the Duty of Town Major, Quarter Master, &
Waggon Master at this place without fee or reward, but my
slender fortune will not admit the Continuation thereof, the
glorious Cause which we are struggling in, has prompt me
on, to greater lengths than I ought in Justice to my little
Family
I hope you will excuse my urging the necessity of a Quar-
ter Master, at this place for experience has taught me, the
Troops will be much impeded in their march for want of
Forage and Waggons. I have a further reason for urging it,
I intend to leave this place early in the spring, & well know
the majority of the people are desirous of being paid for what
they do. I have the honor to be
Your very humble Servt
Charles Beaty
Pres^t of the Board of War.

C. C.
Copy.