Williamsburg [December 13].
A few days ago 6 of lord Dunmore's men deserted from the Otter. They met some of our men, on their way to this city, by whom they were treated with the utmost hospitality; in return, they assisted us, with the highest pleasure, in stowing away our baggage, and in expediting our troops to their destined place. When they were asked what induced them to leave Dunmore, they answered, "Hungry bellies, naked backs, and no fuel; besides, in other respects, the most cruel and inhuman treatment."