Colonel Simcoe was detached with five hundred men against this post, which was protected by between five and six hundred new levies, and a few militia.

Tarlton, with two hundred and fifty cavalry and mounted infantry, was ordered at the same time against Charlottesville, where the general assembly was in session.

So rapid were his movements that a mere accident prevented his entering the town before any notice of his approach was given.

A private gentleman, Mr.Jouiette, who was acquainted with a nearer route than the great road, hastened to Charlottesville on a fleet horse with the interesting intelligence, and entered the town about two hours before the British cavalry.

Nearly all[76] the members of the legislature made their escape, and reassembled at Staunton, on the western side of the Blue Ridge.