Friend of Friends Friday: Ranaway (Toby)

Alexandria Gazette (Va.)
07 September 1821

FORTY DOLLARS REWARD,

RANAWAY from Buckland, in Prince William, late the seat of Mr. John Love, now occupied by me the subscriber,) negro TOBY, A very black, round faced, stout young man, supposed to be about twenty four years of age; the white of his eyes are uncommonly large, and shew in a remarkable manner when spoken to, he has rather a down look; he has been accustomed to the usual business of a farm, and is a tolerable hand. -- This fellow was placed among others, in my care, for safe keeping, to await the event of suit now pending in the District Chancery Court of Fredericksburg, between Mr. William Stuart and Ludwell Lee, executor to Thomas Lee, and has now absconded without any cause, far as is known or believed. His clothes are of the usual kind, some Virginia mannufacture, and some imported, but not particularly recollected -- On the night of his absconding, a chestnut sorrel mare belonging to the overseer was also taken off, supposed by him. A reward of 15 dollars will be given for the fellow if taken within 25 miles and brought home, and if taken up more than thirty miles from home and brought to me, or secured in any jail so that I get him again, forty dollars. All persons are forbid at their peril, harboring or secreting said fellow.

GRIFFIN STITH,

Abbey Ville, Prince William County

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