Lucas v. Brooks

James H. Shepherd died in New Orleans on the twenty-seventh of July, 1837, leaving no descendants, but a mother, four brothers, a sister and the children of a predeceased sister, residing out of this State. Among his papers was found an envelope bearing a superscription in his handwriting, as follows: “ Inclosing J. H. S. will and a communication to R. D. Shepherd, in case of his death, Abraham Shepherd.” Upon being opened by the probate judge on the twenty-ninth July, 1837, two documents were found, on© indorsed:

“J. H. Shepherd

Last olographical will and testament.

New Orleans, December 22,…