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I arrived here after a tedious journey. As I came through Virginia I found the inhabitants desirous to be independent from Britain. However, they were willing to submit their opinion on the subject to whatever the General Congress should determine. North-Carolina, by far, exceeds them, occasioned by the great fatigue, trouble, and danger the people here have undergone for some time past. Gentlemen of the first fortunes in this Province have marched as common soldiers; and, to encourage and give spirit to the men, have footed it the whole time. Lord Cornwallis, with seven regiments, is expected to visit us every day. Clinton is now in Cape-Fear, with Governour Martin, who has about forty sail of vessels, armed and unarmed, waiting his arrival. The Highlanders and Regulators are not to be trusted. Governour Martin has coaxed a number of slaves to leave their masters in the lower parts; everything base and wicked is practised by him. These things have totally changed the temper and disposition of the inhabitants that are friends to liberty; all regard or fondness for the King, or the nation of Britain, is gone; a total separation is what they want. Independence is the word most used. They ask,
We are endeavouring to form a Constitution, as it is thought necessary to exert all the powers of Government; you may expect it will be a popular one.
Extract of a Letter from North-Carolina: The inhabitants of Virginia desire to be independent of Great Britain; in North-Carolina all attachment to the King and the Nation of Britain is gone; a total separation is what they want. Independence is the word most used
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if it is possible that any Colony, after what has passed, can wish for a reconciliation? The Convention have tried to get the opinion of the people at large. I am told that in many Counties there were not one dissenting voice. Four new battalions are directed to be raised, which will make six in this Province.