ENPages
1
To the Hoble [Honorable] the Genl: Assembly of Virginia . The petition of Lewis Armistead a man of colour respecfully represents- That by his industry and labour he acquired a sum of money sufficient to purchase himself his wife and two children. That this money was lodged in the hand of a friend, who made the purchase some years ago and is now ready to execute a deed of emancipation. Would yr [your] Hoble body be disposed to permit yr pet'r [petitioner] & his family to remain within the Comm'th. In favor of this applicches [meaning applications?] yr petitioner wishs he has the claims - He is a native of Virginia; his profession a barber; and he's a man of Colour his character fair & pettess He has this which bind him to his native land and sooner than quit he [not?] prefer returning again to slavery. In support of his character & conduct he submits the testimony of many distinguished citizens. He therefore prays of this Hoble Hous that they will permit him to remain in Vaga [Virginia] so soon as he may be emancipated, and he will ever pray &c
2
We the undersigned have known Lewis Armistead for many years. As a man of colour, he is most respectable. His conduct & character are good, and he is an idustrious & orderly fellow. We hope the prayer of his petition will be granted.
James M Pleasants William Caulfeild Wm. Lambert Jr Geo [illegible] James Currie Thomas T Bouldin Geo [Greenday?] J R Jones John G Gamble Robert Gamble William Carter Joseph Trent [illegible] [Wm Worth?] William Savage John [illegible] Thos Taylor A McRae Robert Pollard [illegible] J Marshall EW Rootey J Brockenbrough John Fox Tho[Richardson?]
