Saturday, July 15, 1775. (Still in West Augusta County). Left Redstone Fort and after losing myself several times, got to Captn. Thos. Gist's. Very kindly treated by Miss Nancy Gist, an agreeable young Woman who informs me that there has been two very severe engagements at Boston and great numbers killed on both sides. Forgot the part of an Elephant tusk at the Fort. Sunday, July 16th, 1775. Went to Major Crawford's, delivered some letters I had for him, gifes me bad accounts of the Boston affair. Informs me Lord Sunsmore had abdicated the Government of Virginia and gone on board a Man of War. Monday, July 17th, 1775. Left Major Crawford's. Crossed the Yaughhagany River and went to MR. V. Crawford's. In the evening went to Captn. Stephenson's to what they call a Reaping Frolic, usually make a feast when they get done reapings, very merry. Tuesday, July 18th, 1775. At Mr. V. Crawford's, Jacob Creek. These rascals have wore out all the clothes I left here, so that I am now reduced to three ragged shirts, two pair linen breeches in the same condition, a hunting shirt and jacket, with one pair of stockings. [Note by BFM: Nicholas had left his clothing there, knowing he was going to try to get to Illinois territory despite warnings of Indian massacres being carried on. He was gone for several weeks, until his guides refused to go any further due to the killings. He returned, and found his clothes worn. Well, the family probably thought he was dead! And wearing his clothes didn't stop him from using the V. Crawford home as a base, with FREE board and room!] Wednesday, July 17th, 1775. Rode to Captn. Gist's, returned in the evening. Intend to stay here a week or two to recover myself. My late fatigues have reduced me exceedingly. The next few entries are about being ill of the gravel, and his pain. Speaks of Mr. Crawfords housekeeper taking care of him. Also Miss Grimes came to see him, and cried "most abundantly" to see him in so much pain, but Nicholas said she had "too much of the Irish in her" Also, Captn. Prior Theobald came to see him and invited him to stay at his home, but Nicholas declined. Barbara