The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

PART 1.l THE FRENCH WAR. 107
These circumstances are related only to show what a
panic prevails among the people; how much they are
alarmed at the most usual and customary cries; and
yet how impossible it is to get them to act in any respect
for their common safety. As an instance of this, Colonel
Fairfax, who arrived in town while we were upon a
scout, immediately sent to a noble captain, not far off, to
repair with his company forthwith to Winchester. With
coolness and moderation this great captain answered,
that his wife, family, and corn were all at stake; so
were those of his soldiers; therefore it was impossible
for him to come. Such is the example of the officers;
such the behaviour of the men; and upon such circumstances depends the safety of our country!
Jlonday, morning. - The men I hired to bring intelligence from the Branch returned last night, with letters
from Captain Ashby, and the other parties there; by
which I learn, that the Indians are gone off; scouts
having been dispersed upon those waters for several
days, without discovering tracks or other signs of the
enemy.
I am also informed, that it is believed their numbers
amounted to about one hundred and fifty; that seventy
of our men are killed and missing, and several houses
and plantations destroyed, but not so great havoc made
as was represented at first. The rangers, and a small
company of militia, ordered there by Lord Fairfax, I am
given to understand, intend to march down on Monday
next. They will be immediately followed by all the
inhabitants of those parts, that had come together under
their protection. I have, therefore, sent peremptory
orders to the contrary; but what obedience will be paid
to them a little time will reveal. I have ordered those
men, that were recruited for the rangers, to join their