Now at this day is presented a certain instrument of writing purporting to be the last will and testament of Lewis Swope, a man of color, at the same time William M Paxton appearing and being duly sworn states in substance: that the residences of James G Spratt and G Robertson (the witnesses to said will) are unknown, that he is well acquainted with this handwriting and believes these signatures to said will are genuine and true, said will is in the handwriting of said J.G. Spratt; deponent further states that he had a conversation with the deceased prior to his death and decedent stated that he had made a will manumitting his wife and children. And the court being satisfied that said proof is sufficient admits send will to probate."
