7

Examination of negroes George and Ned taken prisoners by Colo Stephen's
detachment December 5th 1775 before the field officers.

Negro George belonging to Mr. Donaldson at Suffolk informs
that he left Norfolk yesterday with 55 Black and 2 white men; that
he thinks there are 400 Blacks in that town, besides Soldiers and
Tories; That a tender went down the river to meet a ship & a snow which
the soldiers told him were expected from St. Augustine with troops to the
amount of 4 or 500; That the intrenchment at Norfolk was nearly
compleated, and that they were to begin to mount their Cannon yesterday on
the works, twelve peices. That there are in the fort at the bridge about
30 Whites & 90 blacks; The fort is commanded by one Cunningham; They have
six peices of Cannon on Carriages in the fort, and he believes plenty of
amunition and provision. That last saturday there were about 30 head of
Cattle & 50 sheep driven into Norfolk by the country people & put into an
inclosure. That in general they are plentifully supplied with fresh
provisions from the market in Norfolk. That all the blacks who are sent
to the fort at the great Bridge, are supplied with muskets, Cartridges &c
and strictly ordered to use them defensively & offensively. That the Officer
who commanded the party from which he was taken last night, is named
Woodrup. That negro Ned taken Prisoner with him the said George, entered
as a Volunteer into the service.

Examination of Negro Ned taken prisoner by Lieut Colo. Stephens's Detachment
December 5th 1775

Negro Ned, belonging to Mr. Newton of Kemps Landing, upon his Examination
informs that a Ship & a snow arrived at Norfolk on friday last with soldiers.
That he came from Norfolk yesterday with twenty odd Blacks & three whites.
That all the Blacks who are at any time sent up to the fort at the Great
Bridge are supplied with Muskets Ammunition &c, and ordered to use them
against us.