January 1-December 31, 1781 147

oners of war in these two States at some convenient places, and
send them under proper Guards to Lancaster in Pensylvania where
they will be received by a Guard of Militia of that State. It is better
for the Virginia Guard to go the whole way for reasons obvious to
yourself. (See page 150)

March 24
Red Book
No. 7
Letter 205

[M. Bayly, Fred^k Town, to Gov. Lee.] (p. Col^o Thomas.)

I Gratefully acknowledge your particular attention in appointing
me Auctioneer for Fred^k County. Col^o Thomas having appointed
me to the Command of the Guard and Convention Troops by Au-
thority recv'^d from you and Council, I conceive it one part of my
duty to transmit your Excellency and Council the returns of the Con-
ventioneers to shew you the present State of them which you will find
enclosed. My appointment to receive the recruits for This County
I have Rec^d the Execution of which shall be faithfully attended to,
and every method taken to prevent Desertion shall be adopted.

Present State of the British Troops under the Convention
of Saratoga

Frederick Town 16^th March 1781

March 25