In the name of God Amen I John Simons, a native of Franct? late Boate man on
board the Privateer Schooner Sabina Commanded by Capt. I. Rowland but at present
in Norfolk being weak in Body but of Sound mind and memory do make and ordain
this writing to be my last will and Testament. I give and bequeath unto my ship
mate and friend Thomas Denny all my prize money due me from the aforesaid
privateer or for prizes taken by her also all the prize money due to me from
prizes taken by the United States Frigate President, Commanded by Commodore
Rogers While I was on Board her on Board which Frigate I acted as quarter Gunner
together with all my wearing apparel the said prize money and apparel Comprizing
my whole Estate. I appoint my Said friend to be my Executor to this my last
will. In Witness Whereof I have hereto Set my hand and seal this 2nd day of
October 1814, hereby revoking all former wills by me made.
John (his mark) Simons
Signed sealed published and declared in presence of Jonas (his mark) Archer,
John Brevis?, Norfolk Borough at a Husting? Court Cont. and held the 25th day of
October 1814. this last will and Testament of John Simons deceased was proved by
the Oaths of Jonas Archer and Thomas Brevis the witnesses thereto and Ordered to
be recorded and on the Motion of Thomas Denny the Executor therein named who
made Oath thereto and together with Jonas Archer and Thomas White his securities
who first justified, entered into and Acknowledged their Bond in the penalty of
one Thousand Dollars with Condition as the Law directs Certificate is granted
him for obtaining a probate thereof in due form Test. Wm. Sharp CC Clerk, Copy
Test. Wm. Sharp C.C."
There follows more about the probate (26 Oct 1814)