contempt of his neighbors a lesson which he seldom failed to learn. In
1789 the general assembly passed an act in which good treatment was
enjoined upon master and all contracts between master and slaves were
forbidden. The execution of this law was within the jurisdiction of the
county courts which were directed to admonish the master of any ill
treatment of his slave. If presisted in the court had option and power
to declare free the abused slave.

Few traders came to Clark County as the slaves were not sold unless they
were unruly. There was no underground railroads through this area.

Among some of the old wills compiled by Dr. George F. Doyle of
Winchester, we find wills as follows:

"John Briston in his will dated April 27, 1840 frees his negroes, the
executor to go to Todd County and buy land and divide it between the
negroes and they were given a cow, three horses and he expressed a
desire for them to go to Liberia. They were to be given a certain amount
to defray their moving expenses, and buy them provisions and each negro
was given his blanket."

"Henry Calmes, in his will dated 1831, divides his slaves among his wife
and children." (B7--p654)

"John Christy in his will 1848 says at the death of his wife all his
land and slaves are to be sold and the proceeds divided among his
children." (B11--p346).

"In some old wills enough slaves are to be sold said all outstanding
debts paid and those left to be divided among his heirs."