Stephen v. Walker

Judge Simpson

delivered the opinion of the Court.

The appellant claims his freedom under the will of John Bates, deceased. His claim is based on the following clause in the will, viz:

“ I also give to my son-in-law and daughter, in addition to the eight negroes formerly given, the following, viz: James, Wesley, John, Berry, Emily, Bill, Mariah, and her child; also, Stephen, Margaret, and Green, to serve them eight years, and then to be free.”

The appellant is one of the three slaves last named in the foregoing clause of the will; and the eight years mentioned, having expired after the death of…