business, and it would be but a short time before I could accomplish the
object. Then, if it was desired, I and my wife and children, redeemed from
bondage, would together seek a more friendly home, beyond the dominion of
slavery. The following is the petition presented, endorsed as the reader
will see:

_To the Hon. General Assembly of the State of North Carolina._

GENTLEMEN:--The petition of Lunsford Lane humbly shews--That about five
years ago, he purchased his freedom from his mistress, Mrs. Sherwood
Haywood, and by great economy and industry has paid the purchase money;
that he has a wife and seven children whom he has agreed to purchase,
and for whom he has paid a part of the purchase money; but not having
paid in full, is not yet able to leave the State, without parting with
his wife and children.

Your petitioner prays your Honorable Body to pass a law, allowing him to
remain a limited time within the State, until he can remove his family
also. Your petitioner will give bond and good security for his good
behaviour while he remains. Your petitioner will ever pray, &c.

LUNSFORD LANE.

* * * * *

The undersigned are well acquainted with Lunsford Lane, the petitioner,
and join in his petition to the Assembly for relief.

Charles Manly, Drury Lacy,
R.W. Haywood, Will. Peck,