January 1-December 31, 1781 307

Linnens taken by Pat Sim Smith for the use of the State, the property
of James Stone viz.

20 yds house Linnen d 7/
30 yds Irish sheeting 10/
30 yds Britaines 8/6

June 20
Red Book
No. 27
Letter 98

[Matt Ridley, Adjt, George Town, to Gov. Lee.]

I have to inform you that part of the Baltimore Troop of Light
Dragoons got here last Saturday. Since then some others have joined
and make in the whole Rank & file Forty Eight of the Frederick
Troops, there are twenty eight rank & file. We are in expectation
that a few more will yet join each Troop.
We have had several reports of our being ordered to the south-
ward — should this be necessary the Frederick Troop will have occa-
sion for camp Kettles, which I beg may be forwarded without delay.
Capt Moore also desires that he may be furnishd with the Militia
Laws. Among such a Number some disputes may arise and it will
be necessary the officers should know their powers.

I am desired to ask of the loss of Horses by death, from accident,
or in the Field; what is to be the Owners remedy? This Question
arises from one of the Frederick Gentlemen having lost his. He was
sent out with some others on a party for provisions. On his return
the Horse died. Unless he can be furnished with another he must
be left behind — similar instances may arise. I do not think the State
will expect the individual to Sustain the loss — indeed many cannot
afford it. With submission Would it not be proper to have all the
Horses valued by indifferent persons ?
From the politeness of our Friends we fare well here; but unless
some instructions are given there must shortly be a want of provi-
sions & Forage We have already been obliged to order out parties
to seize Cattle & are only fed from hand to Mouth with Hay
About 180 of the Frederick Militia are come in. Our Gentlemen
desire their respects.

June 21

[William Clagett, Upper Marlbro, to His Ex^y Thomas S. Lee Esq^r]

James Ritchie will deliver M^r John Muir the Goods taken in
this County by Monday next. You will please to Charge John Smith
Brookes and Com^y with 1 p^s ozenburgs 136 yds short delivered me
as they had made use of it since they gave an acc^t of the Goods taken
from them, in expectation of replacing it before it would be wanted.

June 21