David Baker represents that he was a slave in 1781 and "was delivered up as a free man and substitute for Lawrence Baker his former owner to serve under Capt Chandler the commander of the State Boat Patriot." David further states that he was later levied upon and purchased by Capt. Mallory Todd "who was apprised of your petitioners situation and purchased him your petitioner with his eyes open having been forewarned in publick company by your petitioner in the purchase." Baker therefore "humbly prays that this [honorable] Body will pass an act declaring your petitioner to be free."
Result: To courts of justice.
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Repository: Library of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia