[SLAVERY]. PRAY, John. Manuscript Last Will and Testament of John Pray. [Chatham County, GA, July 27, 1819]. 4to. String-tied, self-wrappered booklet. Approximately 350 x 180 mm. First two leaves loose, text toned, worn, soiled, several leaves tattered, numerous tears, chips to the first two leaves especially tattered. Signed by Pray on p. [1] and [33], and various witnesses or legal professionals. While he donates some land and bank stocks (stocks from the State Bank of Georgia), much of the document involves the disbursement of slaves. The total number of slaves bequeathed is unclear, but he did leave 18 slaves to his goddaughter Mary Jane Pray; other people were given various numbers of slaves. Pray was a wealthy slave and plantation owner. Some excerpts: “I give to my execution in trust for the use of Elizabeth Mell Niece to my wife… the following Negroes one [?] negro Toby…” “I give unto Joseph Pray Law son of my friend Col. Law to him his heirs as assigns for Ever one [?] Negro fellow Jim who is on my Wilkes [?] plantation…” “I give unto Cornelia & Clancy Bond… for ever Negroes Patty & Bess two of Satines [?] Children & also Andrew Patty’s Child and their future increase…” “I give unto my God daughter Hester Sarah Maxwell to her heirs + assigns for ever… all the aforementioned Negroes & increase Rosa Paris George Jack Louisa Ephraim David Tom Flora child Dianah Landy & Sylvia…”