Emancipated by the will of his late mistress Esther Russell, Sam was also given land and several young slaves. He was directed by the will to care for the youngsters until they reached hiring age, and then hire them out. However, Sam points out to the court, he cannot discharge his obligation toward the youngsters if, as the law requires of freed slaves, he must leave the state within twelve months of his emancipation. He therefore asks the legislature to grant him permission to reside in the state of Virginia "for and during his life or if not for that length of time for such time as will be necessary to raise the said children slaves until they shall become useful."
Result: Bill drawn.
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Repository: Library of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia
