Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/197

 I tliink, clearly gives the convention, and committee of safety acting under their authority, the absolute direc- tion of the troops. The dispute between you must be occasioned I suppose, (for I have not seen your letter to the colonel) by disregard of him as commander, after the adjournment of the committee of safety^ and before the n>eeting of the convention; at which time, I am apt to think^ though I am not military man enough to determine, your correspondence should have been w ith him as commanding officer. I have talked with colonel Henry about this matter; he thinks he has been ill treated, and insists the officers under his command shall submit to his orders. I recommended it to him to treat the business with caution and temper; as a dif- ference at this critical moment, between our troops, would be attended with the most fatal consequences; and took the liberty to assure him you would, I was certain, submit to whatever was thought just and rea- sonable. He has laid the letter before the committee of safety, whose sentiments upon the subject, I expect you must have received before this. I hope it will not come before us,* but from what colonel Henry said, he inti- mated it must, as it could be no otherwise determined. My sentiments upon that delicate point, I partly com- municated upon the expected junction of the Carolina

safety ; to hold, exercise, and enjoy, the said office of colonel and com- mander in chief of the forces, and to perform and execute the power and authority aforesaid, and all other things which are truly and of right inci- dental to your said office, during the pleasure of the convention, and no longer. And we do hereby require and command all officers and soldiers, and every person -whatsoever, in any -way conceited, to be obedient and assisting to you in all things, touchitig the due execution of this commission, according to the purport or intent thereof.

" Given under our hands at, this day of , anno Dom. \77 .'*

"^ The convention.

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