Dundas, Ralph (b. 1732) to James Dundas
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03676.04 Author/Creator: Dundas, Ralph (b. 1732) Place Written: Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 22 July 1781 Pagination: 4 p. : address : docket ; 36.3 x 22.1 cm. Order a Copy
Dundas, captain of the H. M. S. Bonetta, writes from the Elizabeth River to his brother James. Reports that he was sent to the James Islands "to cover the Boats of Earle Cornwallis's Army who were ordered away from the Pursuit of the Marquis Fayette." Praises Cornwallis. Discusses details of continued battles and skirmishes occurring between December 1780 and July 1781, as the Marquis de Lafayette pursued Cornwallis to Yorktown. Mentions the activities of Colonel Robert Abercrombie and the Edinburgh Regiment. States that he had previous orders to attack Philadelphia, but had received orders not to carry through with the attack. Reports on a prize ship, and relates news of a ship that arrived in Antigua with cargo completely destroyed. Relates information about fellow sailors who perished in transport or battle. Reports on the son of mutual acquaintance, who performed admirably during battle and who is now serving in North Carolina. In a post script, states "the Action at James Town was the 7 July."
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