Tom, a man of color, represents that he made a contract to purchase his freedom for $350 from Peter Wright earlier in the year. Because "doubts was entertained as to the power & ability of your orator to make said contract," Tom reveals that he persuaded James Wright and one Mr. Field to act as his agents to complete the transaction. Charging that his agents paid the money and witnessed and received the deed, the petitioner states that Peter Wright, several days later, enticed James Wright to return the deed by offering to file it with the court and "save (said Jas. Wright & Field) ... the trouble of going to Court." Tom reports, however, that Wright concealed the deed instead and never filed it. Of the belief that Wright's "unjust and iniquitous" actions have "deprived [him] of the evidince of his freedom," the petitioner prays that Wright be subpoenaed and that the court will "order & decree that said defendant deliver up to this Complainant said deed of emancipation."
Result: Partially granted.
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Repository: Missouri State Archives, Jefferson City, Missouri
