To John Augustine Washington
Fort Cumberland, Md., 18 July 1755]
To Mr Jno. Auge Washington, Mo.t Vernon.
Dear Brother,
As I have heard; since my arrival at this place, a circumstantial account of my death and dying speech; I take this early opportunity of contradicting the first, and of assuring you, that I have not, as yet, composed the latter.—But, by the All-powerful Dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation; for I had four Bullets through my Coat, and two Horses shot under me; yet escaped unhurt, altho[ugh] Death was leveling my Companions on every side of me!
We have been most scandalously beaten by a trifling body of men;—but fatigue, and want of time, prevent me from giving you any of the details, untill I have the happiness of seeing you at Mount Vernon; which I now most ardently wish for, since we are drove in thus far.—A weak and feeble state of Health, obliges me to halt here for two or three days to recover a little strength, that I may thereby
be enabled to proceed homewards with more ease: You may expect to see me there, on Saturday or Sunday fortnight, which is as soon as I can well be down; as I shall take my Bullskin Plantations in my way.—Pray give my compliments to all my Friends.—I am, Dr Jack,
Your most aff.e Brother,
G. W——n