Posted by Cpl. MacWilliam on March 25, 2000 at 04:59:15:
Friend Toot,
I have received your latest message about the troubles on the eastern frontier. You will receive this message through an Indian scout attached to the 77th, name of Red Leaf. Beware of him. He is not a brother to us like Sign Talker and I do not trust this Red Leaf. Although he is a Catawba, allied to the British, we have found him several times skulking on the edge of Fort Carlisle in bad company. He denies all knowledge of spying for the French but our own 1st Sgt. Campbell is indeed wary of him. If Sgt. Campbell suspects treason, it is often of a true nature. Being a Campbell he is well aware of treasonous acts!
We await the arrival of our cousins Many Flags and Three Tales. They should arrive here at Carlisle within a day or so, they are traveling fast, most likely near the settlement of York. We have nary a word from our cousin Seamus and friend Timothy for the last few days. Like in your area and here in Carlisle, the savages seem to be in an uprise. It has been much quieter here since daylight yesterday.Capt. Croy has informed us that the word from Colonel Bouquet is that we will leave the Fort in two days. But, we have heard that before.
Pvt. Wm. JohnsTon sends his regards. As a lowlander he is much sickened by the stench of all the men and is ready to be off south to Fort Morris. However, Uncle Quasi has been aiding him with forgetting the stench, a little rum, a little whiskey will do wonders in numbing the nasal passages.
It is our hopes that your commander will allow you to travel south soon and meet with us at Loudoun as we continue our journey to Frederick. Send Red Leaf back to us with a message. I do not wish him to get too familiar with your troop numbers or fortifications.
Pax Aye! God Save the King!
Cpl. Malcolm MacWilliam