Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 7,503, for Anthony Murphy, Maryland
Page 1

(3-1776)

SERVICE  NUMBER

Md 
Va 

Murphy Anthony
Murden Mary 
(Former Widow)

R. 7.503

CONTENTS
Page 2

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . | £ |  S |    D
Brought over . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 | 3.14 | 6
to one plow a pare [pair] iron wedge & iron [illegible] . .  - | 16 | 6
to a percel [parcel] of Cuppers ware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 11 | 3
to one bracket & lie [lye] stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 10 | 6
to one hand mill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 | 4 |
to one frying pan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 6 |
to three iron pots & two pare [pair] tramels &c . . . . . . . .  - | 19 |
to one iron kittle [kettle] and one jug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 9 |
to two axes & plow harness [harness] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 7 |
to two plows one barrow & two bucks &c . . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 18 |
to two barrels & some flax seed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 3 |
to one [illegible] [illegible] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 |  |
to one horse cart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  3 |  |
to five hoes & one grimstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 12 |
to one flax brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [illegible]
to one trunk [illegible] [illegible] & strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 7 | 6
to one looking glass & percell [parcel] of books . . . . . . . .   - | 6 |
to nine chears [chairs]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 18 |
to two pare [pair] shilards & candlestick &c . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 4 | 6
to one pare {pair] candle molds &c . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 3 |
to six puter [pewter] plates two basons [basins] one dish &c - | 10 |
to a percell [parcel] of broken ware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 13 | 6
to a percell [parcel] of leather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 15 | 
to fore [four] knives & six forks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 3 |
to one pare [pair] fire dogs & one pare [pair] fire tongs . .  - | 3 |
to one cradle & bead [bed] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 6 | 
to one pare [pair] flat irons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 3 |
to one gun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   1 | 1 |
to one man saddle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 12 
to one loome [loom] & gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 16 | 6
to two linen wheles [wheels] & gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   - | 16 | 6
[Circular stamp]
THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES
OF THE UNITED STATES 
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  163 | 14 | 6
Page 3

Memorandum and Appraisement of the Estate of 
Anthony Murphy Decd. December 17th 1799
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ | S | D
To one negro man Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 |   |
To one do. woman Chaney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 |  |
to one do. man Bob . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [Blank]
to two feather beads [beds] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 | 10 |
to one desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  4| 10 |
to one folding table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 15 |
to one chest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 12 |
to one tea stand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 6 |
to two tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 7 | 6
to one fishing saine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 | 8 |
to one case of bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 4 | 6
to one [illegible]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 3 |
to one [illegible] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 | 10 |
to one mare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 |  | 
to seventeen barrels corne [corn] at 12 S per barrel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 | 4 |
to two sows & pigs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   3 | 12 |
to eight head dry hogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  4 | 18 |
to seven head sheep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 | 4 |
to five head cattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  9 | 6 |
to one sope [soap] tub jug & [illegible] old barrels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 9 | 3
to all the Dungle stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 16 | 6
to one apple mill & [illegible] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 18 |
[item lined through]
to one pare [pair] stilards [steelyards] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 12 |
to one pare [pari] money seals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 4 | 6
to one jug and percel [parcel] books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 7 | 6
to one tribett [trivet] and one grid iron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . - | 9 |
to one coffey [coffee] mill one jug & bottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 3 | 6
____________
229 | 9 | 6
Page 4

Brought over . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  £ | S | D
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  229 | 9 | 6

to one iron chane [chain]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 4 | 6
to one gridle [griddle] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 1 |
to two hoes one barrel and lot iron &c . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  - | 2 | 5
___________
229 | 17 | 5

Due the [repeated: the] estate by notes when colleced [collected]
to Thomas Killey note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 | 2 | 4 1/2
to John M. Clanton notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  8 | 10 |
to one sword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  2 | 8 |
to Jonathen Capps notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  8 |10 |
The whole amount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 | 7 | 9 1/2

In conformity to an order of Princess Ann Court 
to us directed baring [bearing] November 2nd 1799 
we the subscribers being duly sworn met 
at the late dwelling house of Capt. 
Anthony Murphy decd. and appraised all 
his estate brought to our view by the 
administrator, and this is our return 
given under our hands the day and date 
above written.  John Whitehead
Coppy [copy]  John Wright 
John Murden
Page 5

 £ . . S . . D 
Paid [word struck out] Killeys note February 1801 . . . . . 1 . . 7 . . 0
do John Meclanhans note do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  9 . . 10 . . 0
do Jonathan Caps's note Jan 1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   9 . . 0 . . 0
do Lettica White account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  1 . . 0 . . 0


Am [illegible]

Murphy, Anthony
Md. R 7503
Page 6

No. 7
Marriage bond 

April 1849
Page 7

Know all men by these presents, that we William Portlock and William 
West are held and firmly bound unto William H. Cabell esquire, 
Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and his successors in office, 
in the full and just sum of one hundred & fifty dollars, to the pay
ment whereof well and truly to be made to the said Governor 
and to his successors in office; we bind ourselves, our heirs, 
executors and administrators, jointly and severally, firmly by 
these presents, sealed with our seals, and dated this 4th day of 
May one thousand eight hundred and [blank].  The condi
tion of the above obligation is such, that whereas a marriage 
is shortly to be held and solemnized between the above bound, 
William Portlock and Mary Murphy.  Now if there be no law 
ful cause to obstruct said marriage, then the above obliga
tion to be void, otherwise to be of full force.
Sealed and delivered }  Wm his X mark Portlock [word Seal encircled]
in the presence of }  William West sir. [word Seal encircled]
E. H. Moseley

I, John J Burroughs, clerk of the County Court of Princess Anne in 
the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that the above is a 
true copy of the original bond now on file in the clerk's office  
of the said County: I do also certify that the blank for the year was 
inadvertently omitted to be filled up at the time that the original bond 
is on file among similar bonds of the year 1807, and has an en
dorsement on its back by the then clerk, "May 1807-" "Wm. Portlock 
marriage bond:  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my 
hand and affixed the seal of the said County 
Court of Princess Anne, at the Courthouse thereof, 
on this 19th day of April, 1849, in the 73d. year 
of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs Clk
Page 8

Power of Attorney 
from
Mary Murden 
to Richd. Burgess

Jh 1849
Page 9

Know all men by these presents 
that I Polly Murden of Princess Ann 
County, a pensioner of the United States 
do hereby constitute and appoint Richard 
Burgess of Washington City my true 
and lawful attorney for me and in my 
name to receive from the agent of the 
United States for paying pensions in the 
City of Washington, D. C. my pension or what 
every may be allowed to me for the services 
of my husband Antoney Murphy in the 
time of the Revolutionary war  Witness my 
hand and seal this [blank] day of February 1849
Test  Polly her X mark Murden [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia }
Norfolk City } to Wit

Be it known that on 
the 10th day of February 1849 before the subscriber 
a Justice of the peace in and for the said 
City personally appeared Polly Murden 
above named and acknowledged the foregoing 
Power of Attorney to be her act and deed 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set 
my hand and seal the day and year 
just above mintioned [mentioned]
Chas H Sheild [word Seal encircled]
J P
Page 10

State of Virginia City of Norfolk Sc:

I John Williams Clerk of the Hastings Court of the City of Nor
folk aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that Charles H
Sheild Esquire who hath given the preceding certificate is now and was on the 
day of the date thereof a justice of the peace in and for the said City duly ap
pointed and qualified-that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as 
such and that the signature "Chas H Sheild" thereto subscribed is in his pro
per hand writing. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal 
[Blurred seal of Court] of the said Court and subscribed my name this 
eighth day of March in the year of our Lord 
one thousand eight hundred and forty nine in 
the seventy third of the Commonwealth.
Jno. Williams CC

[Written vertically left margin]
Power of Attorney 
from 
Mary Murden
to 
Richd. Burgess


Jh 1849
Page 11

Princess Anne Courthouse Virginia 
July 9th 1849

J. L. Edwards Esq }
Comr. of Pensions }

Dear Sir

I have been requested by 
Mr. James Portlock the son of Mrs. Mary Murden, late 
the widow of Capt. Anthony Murphy to enquire [inquire] of you 
whether the claim in favour [favor] of his mother, for the services 
of Capt. Murphy in the Revolution, has been allowed, 
and if not, what are the prospects of its being allowed.

Mr. Thomas Moore has been prosecuting the claim 
& Mrs. Murden & her son, incline to the opinion, that it has 
been allowed & the amt. paid to Mr. Moore.  Please 
inform me as to these inquirys [inquiries] & give me such other 
information as may [illegible] to the advantage of Mrs. 
Murden (who is very needy).

I am not interested in this matter but have 
written you at the request of the parties & you would 
confer a great favour [favor] on them by giving an imediate [immediate]
answer
Very Respectfully yours &c.

W. H. C. Lovitt
Page 12

[number cut off]3807 No. 1

Declaration of 
Mary Murden 
widow of Capt Anthony 
Murphy a volunteer 
in the war of the 
Revolution-
for pension under the 
Act 7 July 1838

Not
allowed 1849
Page 13

At a Quarterly Session Court held for Princess Anne County 
the 5th day of March 1849.

On this fifth day of March eighteen hundred and forty 
nine, personally appeared before the Court held this day 
for said County, Mary Murden an old lady worthy 
of credit a resident of Princess Anne County, and now in her 
seventy eighth year of her age, being first duly sworn ac
cording to law, doth on her oath make the following declar
ation in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made 
by the act of Congress passed July the seventh eighteen 
hundred and thirty eight, entitled, "an act granting half 
pay and pensions to certain widows," that she was the widow 
of Anthony Murphy who was a Captain of a volunteer com
pany in the time of the revolutionary war, that he served 
at different times as much as two years in the said war, 
that she has frequently heard him say so, and that she 
has frequently heard him speak of the battles he was in; 
She further declares that she was married to the said An
thony Murphy on the twenty seventh day of August, 
seventeen hundred and eighty seven, and that her 
husband the aforesaid Anthony Murphy died sometime 
in the year seventeen hundred and ninety nine; that 
she was not married to him prior to his leaving the ser
vice, but the marriage took place previous to the first day 
of January seventeen hundred and ninety four, viz: 
at the time above stated.  she further swears that she is 
now a widow, and that she has never before made any 
application for a pension.  Mary her X mark Murden.  And the 
Court doth order it to be certified that from the above declar
ation and other evidence before them, it doth appear that 
Anthony Murphy was a Captain of a volunteer company
Page 14

in the time of the revolutionary war, and that he served 
as herein specified, and the said Court is of opinion that 
the widow herein named is entitled to the benefit of the 
law herein specified.=========================
I, John J. Burroughs, Clerk of the 
County Court of Princess Anne aforesaid: do hereby 
certify that the foregoing is a true transcript 
from the records of the said Court.  and In testimony 
thereof, I have hereunto set my 
hand and affixed the seal of the 
said County Court, at the Courthouse 
of the said County, this 7th day of 
March 1849, in the 73d. year 
of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 15

Know all men by these presents, that we Anthony Murphey 
and Simon Marvault are held and firmly bound unto Ed
mund Randolph Esqr. Governor or Chief Magistrate of the Common 
wealth of Virginia, in the full and just sum of fifty pounds 
current money to be paid unto the said Edmund Randolph 
Esqr. and his successors for the use of the said Commonwealth, for 
paiment [payment] whereof well and truly to be made, we bind our 
selves and each of our heirs, executors and administrators jointly 
and severally firmly by these presents.  sealed our seals, and 
dated the 27th day of August 1787.  The condition of the above 
obligation is such, that whereas there is a marriage short
ly intended to be had and solemnized between the above 
bound Anthony Murphey and Mary West  If therefore there be 
no lawful cause to obstruct the said marriage then the 
above obligation to be void or else to remain in full force.
Sealed and delivered }  A. Murphy [word Seal encircled]
In the presence of }  Simon Marvault [word Seal encircled]
Jno. Salisbury

I, John J. Burroughs Clerk of the County Court of Princess Anne 
in the State of Virginia, do certify that the above is a true 
copy of the original bond now on file in my office. and 
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto 
set my hand and affixed the seal of the 
said County Court of Princess Anne, at the 
Courthouse this 23d. day of February 
1849, in the 72d. year of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 16

State of Virginia }
Princess Ann County } to Wit

On this twenty 
first day of April 1849 personally appeared 
before me a Justice of the peace for the 
County of Princess Ann and the state 
aforesaid Mary Murden a resident of said 
County and aged seventy eight years who has 
once made a declaration in open Court under the 
act of Congress passed July 7th 1838 entitled an 
act granting half pay and pensions to certain 
widows, which declaration is filed in the City 
of Washington at the pension office. that she 
was once the widow of Captn Antoney Murphy 
as therein specifies, she now further declares 
that she remained the said Antoney Murphys 
widow untill [until] May the 4th 1807 that she 
then married William Portlock that William 
Portlock died sometime in the year 1813 that 
she was afterwards married in Carrolinia [Carolina] under that 
law to James Murden who died sometime in 
the year 1844 and that she is now a widow 
that she has allways [always] lived in this County 
When the services of my husband Antoney 
Murphy was performed that she has no 
documentary evidence to show that he was comm
itioned [commissioned] in the revolutionary war as an officer but 
that she always heard him say so and believes 
he was commitioned [commissioned] sometime in the year of 
our Lord 1781 as a Captain of the volentier [volunteer] 
corps and that he served the war out that 
one Col. Robinson and Col John Ackiss commanded
That she has now presented the best evidence 
she can or has in her power and therefore claims 
her pension for her said husband Antoney 
Murphy services in the revolutionary war.
Sworn to and subscribed this 28th day of 
April 1849. Mary her X mark Murden
Page 17

This is to Cirtify [Certify] I William W Strawhand a LD 
of the Methodist Episcople [Episcopal] Church have had an 
acquaintence [acquaintance] with Mrs Marey [Mary] Murden 
and know the [illegible] Mary to be a member of the 
[repeated: the] church in good standing given under my hand
this the twenty first day of Aprel [April] 1849
William W Strawhand [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia } to Wit
Princess Anne County }

This day personally appeared 
Mary Murden before me a Justice in and for the 
said County and made oath to the truth of the within 
declaration and I hereby certify that I have known 
the said Mary Murden for a number of years and 
that full faith and credit can and ought to be given 
to her statement.  I also certify that William W. Straw
hand who signed the above certificate is a minister 
of the Gospel of good standing and regularly ordained 
Given under my hand and seal this 21st. day of 
April 1849.
John H. Dey J.P. [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia, Princess Anne County, to wit:

I, John J. Burroughs, Clerk of the County Court of Princess 
Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that John 
H. Dey before whom the above affidavit of Mary Murden was made 
and who has also given the above certificate relative to the character 
and standing of William W. Strawhand as a minister of the Gospel is 
a Justice of the peace of the said County of Princess Anne duly commis
sioned and qualified according to the Constitution and laws of this state, and 
that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as 
such; I do also certify that the signature, "John H. Dey J.P." 
thereunto subscribed is genuine.  In Testimony whereof I 
have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the 
said County Court, this 21st day of April 1849, in the 73d. 
year of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 18

Murphy, Anthony 
Md R7503
Page 19

Know all men by these presents that I John Rowes of 
Princis [Princess] Ann County in Virginia dos [does] [illegible] and stand justly 
[illegible] and am by these presents firmly bounden unto 
Richard Land of the County aforesaid him his heirs executers [executors]
admins or assignes [assignees] the full and just sume [sum] of thirty pounds 
current money of Virginia to which pament [payment] well and truly to 
be made I bind myself my heirs execrs and admins firmly 
by these presents In wittniss [witness] whereof I have heare [here] unto 
sett [set] my hand and seale [seal] this [blank] day of November in the yeare [year]  
of our Lord God ------------------------------1735

The condition of the above obligation is such that the 
above bounden John Rowes hath convenanted granted agreed 
bargained and sold unto the above named Richard Land his 
heirs execrs admins or assignes [assignees] a certen [certain] percell [parcel] of land con
taining by estimation one hundred acres of Land [illegible] 
neare [near] [illegible] River this said land being part of a patten [patent] 
which I [illegible] from Henry Woods and William Rocks 
Now if the above bounden John Rowers his heiars [heirs] execrs or
admins [illegible] when there [their] unto required make sale and deliver 
or cause to be delivered unto [illegible] above named Richard Land 
his heirs execrs or admins or assignes [assignees] such a good and lawfull [lawful]
[illegible] & acknolledg [acknowledge] this said land in Corte [court] with lease & [illegible]
and premises with appurtanances [appurtenances] then unto belonging and alsoe [also] 
save defend and keep to him the said Richard Land peaceable 
and [illegible] possession of the sd land and premises without any 
trouble or disturbance molestation inturruption [interruption] or demand of 
any parson [person] or[illegible] what ever then the above obligation 
to be void and of none effects or [illegible] to stand and remain 
in full force and [illegible]
Signed sealed and delivered in the presents [presence]of us 
John [illegible]
Francis Land John R Rowes 
[Circular stamp]
THE NATION ARCHIVES 
[illegible]
Page 20

to Capt Antoney
Murphy Princess Anne
Virginia

[Written vertically right margin]
No 14
Page 21

Capt Antoney Murphy Sir
I sent you to march your com
pany to Massis Creek by Friday the 
twenty six of September and I will 
meet you there if life lost for I 
lament the death of our Lieutenant
Walker and must [illegible] a [illegible] to the 
British in that part of the country 
this the first day of Sept 1781
Yours with respect 
Amos Wicks Capt
Page 22

[illegible] 

£25 15
Augt. 24th. 84
Page 23

Recd. August the 24 1700H of Amos Wicks

Adms of William Keeling [illegible] Dist
the sum of Twenty Two ponds [pounds] fifteen 
shillings in full of a lagacy [legacy] left to 
me by my gandmother [grandmother] [illegible]
Keeling dies  por [illegible]  Robt. R. Keeling
Test
James Hargons
Page 24

Recd Novr 27th 793 of Anthony Murphy the 
with in In full. Corlet
Joel
Joel Corley
Page 25

Sir )
 I will pay you 14/9 for Wm. Davis & allso [also] will pay 
you for [illegible] of said Davis [illegible] & /2 bought
Mr Joel [illegible]

[Remainder of text illegible]
Page 26

Recd of Amos Wicks the  
sum of one pound fore [four] shilling
for three days work
Januyt 25 1784 por [illegible]
G G Wright

Recd. of Amos Wicks the sum 
on one ponds [pound] fore [four] shillings 
for 3 days work Januy 29 1784
por [illegible] Willie Wright 

Recd. of Amos Wicks the 
[Remainder of text cut off]
Page 27

Recd. July 27. 1784 of Capt.
Amos Wicks the sum of 
five pounds five shilling in 
part of a legacy due from 
Mr. William Keeling [illegible] decd.
to me.  Robert Keeling
Page 28

Wm Thapord
[illegible]
£10.0
Page 29

July the 3 [illegible]900 Recvd of Amos Wicks the 
sum of one pond [pound] & ten shillings
William Shepherd.
Page 30

No 12

Capt Murphy [illegible]
case 

C A. 1849
Page 31

Virginia: Princess Anne County, to wit:

I, John J. Burroughs Clerk of the County Court of Princess 
Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do certify, that there is 
no entry or record of the said Court of its minutes or proceedings 
from the 14th day of December 1780 till the 14th day of February 
1782. and I presume that as the records of said Court were 
removed during the war, that they must have been away during 
the period above named.  In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto 
set my hand and affixed the seal of the said 
Court, this 19th day of October 1849, in the 74th 
year of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 32

Record. November 27 day 1782 of Anthony
Murphy Capt the with in full
Corblet
Joel

[Written vertically left margin]
No 15.
Page 33

Sir) I will pay you 14/9 for Wm. Davis & allso [also] 
will pay you for [illegible] of said Davis & [illegible]
& ./2 bought  Mr Joel Cobb  Antony Murphy Capt
[page torn] [illegible] date for [illegible]
[page torn] fore [four] pence hapenney July the 27 1781
page torn] to one days work 2 shilings [shillings]
Page 34

[Following lined through]
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.

[Stamp]
REJECTED
7503
P. O. Mary Murden
Service: [blank]

Enlisted: [blank], 18[blank]
Discharged: [blank], 18[blank]

Application filed: [blank], 18[blank]

Alleges: [blank]
Re-enlisted: [blank]

Attorney: [blank]
P. O. [blank]
[blank] Recognized. [blank] Contract
[blank] Cert. of Dis.  Searched for [blank], 18[blank]
Page 35

The Deposition of James Murphy aged eighty two years who after 
being duly sworn according to law doth depose and say that he 
was well and intimately acquainted with Captain Anthony 
Murphy who left home when very young as Sergeant Major 
in the army during the Revolutionary war and that he stay
ed away some time as much at least as eighteen months;
that he came home and afterwards commanded a volunteer 
company; that he has every reason to know him as he was his 
own Brother and that he has often heard him speak of his 
having fought in the Battles of Brandywine, Trenton, Mon
mouth and at the storming of Stoney Point, and of the 
many difficulties he encountered during the said war; that 
his Brother the said Anthony Murphy died some time about 
the year seventeen hundred and ninety eight aged about 
fifty years at the time of his death; that he has no in
terest in this case whatsoever.
In witness whereof the said deponent hath hereunto set 
his hand and seal this fifth day of April 1849.
James Murphy [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia
City of Norfolk } to wit:

This day personally before me the sub
scriber a Justice of the peace in and for the said City James Mur
phy an old man and respectable gentleman, and after being duly 
sworn according to law declared that the several statements 
contained in the annexed deposition are true to the best of his 
knowledge and belief.  And I hereby certify that I have known 
the said James Murphy for a number of years and that he is 
highly respected in this community; to which deposition there 
fore full faith and credit are due, and ought to be given.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal 
this fifth day of April 1849. Chas H Sheild JP [word Seal encircled]
Page 36

State of Virginia }
City of Norfolk }  I, John E. Edwards Pastor of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church of this City do hereby certify to all whom 
it may concern that James Murphy whose name is signed 
to the deposition written on the other side hereof is a member 
of my church of good standing, and that full faith and cred
it are due and ought to be given to his statements in the 
said deposition.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and 
seal this fifth day of April 1849.
John E. Edwards [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia City of Norfolk cc:

I John Williams clerk of the Hustings Court of the City of Norfolk 
aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that Charles H 
Sheild Esquire who hath given the within certificate, is a justice of the 
peace in and for the said City, duly appointed and qualified. that he 
is authorised [authorized] by the laws of this Commonwealth to administer an oath.
that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such. and that the 
signature "Chas. H Sheild" thereto subscribed is in his proper handwriting
as I do verily believe.  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto annexed the 
[Blurred seal of Court] seal of the said Court, and subscribed my name 
this fifth day of April in the year of our Lord 
one thousand eight hundred and forty nine, and 
of the Commonwealth the seventy third.
Jno. Williams cc

[Written vertically left margin]
No 10
April 1849
Page 37

Irrelevant papers filed 
January 24th 1850.

Specimens of A. Weeks 
hand writing &c-which 
pretty plainly show that the 
letter of A. Weeks is not 
genuine.
Page 38

The Deposition of Thomas Campbell who 
first being duly sworn according to law doth on 
his oath depose and say that he was [illegible]
under the militia laws of the State of Virginia 
sometime in the year of our Lord one thousand 
seventeen hundred and eighty one under one Captn.
Nimmow of the militia and then he served 
under one Captn. Antoney Murphy in a 
volunteer corps untill [until] the war was intirely [entirely]
ended. that he was given a certificate in the 
favour [favor] of Mrs. Mary Murden who he knows 
was once the widow of the said Antoney Murphy 
that some years after she married a Mr
Portlock, he died and she married a Mr James 
Murden whose widow she now remains 
That the reason he never applyed [applied] for a pension 
was that he never knew he was intitled [entitled] to one 
haveing [having] never seen nor herd [heard] of such a law, but 
shall do now as soon as he can conveniently do 
it.  I have no recollection of the fieled [field] officers 
except Col John Ackiss and one Col 
Robinson.  he does not know in what year the 
laws passed and further this deponant [deponent] sayeth 
not
Sworn to and subscribed to this 20th day 
April 1849  Thos his X mark Campbell

State of Virginia } To Wit
Princess Anne County }

This day personally appeared 
Thos. Campbell before me a justice of the peace 
in and for the said County and made oath 
to the truth of the above deposition, and I hereby 
certify that the said Thos. Campbell is an old 
man worthy of full faith and credit.  Given under 
my hand and seal this 20th of April 1849
JA Munden JP [word Seal encircled]
Page 39

I David Riggs a minister of the Gospel, do hereby certify that 
I have known Mr. Thomas Campbell sr. for upwards of 
forty years, that he belongs to the Methodist Church and 
stands as a devout Christian, that he is generally believed 
in any statement he makes, and that he has always been 
believed and reputed to have been a Revolutionary soldier.  Given 
under my hand and seal this 20th day of April 1849.
David Riggs [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia, Princess Anne County, to wit:

I, John J. Burroughs, clerk of the County Court of Princess 
Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that John 
A. Munden before whom the within affidavit of Thomas Campbell 
was made, was at the time and still is, a Justice of the peace of the  
said County of Princess Anne, duly commissioned and qualified according 
to the Constitution and laws of this State, and that full faith and 
credit are due to all his acts as such; and I do also certify that the 
signature, "J. A. Munden J.P." thereunto subscribed is genuine.  I do moreover 
certify that David Riggs a resident minister of the Baptist Church in 
this County, who hath given the above certificate relative to his know
ledge of Thomas Campbell is reputed and I do verily believe is a minis
ter as above stated, & that faith and credit are justly due & ought to be
given to any certificate he may give.  In Testimony whereof I have 
hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said 
County Court of Princess Anne, at the Courthouse of 
the said County, this 21st day of April 1849 in 
the 73d. year of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C. C.
Page 40

[Two panels]
[Left panel]

Let to W. H. G. 
Jul 13.-49.

R Burgess Feb 1/'50

Let I. N. Coffin, 
June 13 /53

A. F. Leonard 
Feb 23. 1854

Let. H. M. Woodhouse 
June 26 /57

[Right panel]

13801 Va April 9/49
Declaration of 
Mary Munden widow 
of Captn Anthony Murphy 
a volunteer in the War
of the Revolution 
for pension under the 
Act of 7 July 1838

Let: to Richard Burgess
April 14th 1849
_______________
Letter to Richard Burgess
April 30, 1849
_______________
See copy of letter within from Sec. Inter 
dated 15 May 1849 to R. Burgess-in which 
he concurs with Pension Office-
Report Sec Interor [Interior] May 12/49
_______________
See Report also Feb. 8/'53,
Sec Interior from 8/53

Earlier Dates - Over
Page 41

Princess Anne Court House
June 20. 1857.

Commissioner of Pensions

Dear Sir-

The parties inter
tested are anxious to know the particulars con 
cerning a claim, prosecuted by a  Mr Thom
as Moore, about eight year ago, in favor 
of Mrs. Sally or Sarah Murden, at 
one time the wife of Anthony Murphey. 
I am told that Anthony Murphey was a 
Captain in the Revolution, and his claim  
upon your department are supposed to have 
been made out by the proper vouchers, but 
for some cause, the agent, now dead, failed 
either to go on with the matter, or neglected 
to make any returns to his principal.
Mrs. Murden is dead, but left two 
daughters-very poor-and if the claim was 
allowed and paid they wish to know it, 
if it fell through for want of sufficient 
testimony, I shall be glad if you will
not consider it too great hindrance and 
[illegible] to point out the flaw.
Page 42

Am no pension agent, and if desired 
refer to Col. E. H. Herbeil, known, I believe, 
to Secty Floyd, also to Genl Willson, 
our representative to Congress.

Should like an answer as soon as prac
ticable.

Very Resply Your Obt Servant 
Henry M. Woodhouse 
Court - House [illegible]
Princess Anne Cty Va
Page 43

14.
Washington
Sept. 17, 1852

Isaac N Coffin

Encl. papers relative to 
the case of Mary Murden 
widow of Anthony Murphy.


C
Recd Sept. 18. 1852
Page 44

Washington  Septr. 17th 1852.

Sir:

I herewith transmit sundry papers, sent 
to me by the Commissioner of Pensions on July 3d in the case of Mrs.
Mary Murden widow of Anthony Murphy (her 
first husband) a Revolutionary pension case under the 
Act of July 7. 1838, in which case an Appeal is 
now pending by me before your Office; also a letter of 
the Commissioner suggesting such transmission, which 
papers are as follows, viz: 1. Certificate of Court of Princess 
Anne County that certain papers are genuine. 2d. The 
Deposition of Margaret Rainey that Anthony Murphy 
was a Captain in the Revolutionary War. 3d. The Letter 
of Robert Johnson Esq. Auditor of Virginia stating 
that the Registers in his office have been examined and the 
name of Captain Anthony Murphy cannot be found.
4th. The Certificate of Robert Johnson Esq. Auditor of 
Virginia showing that Anthony Murphy served as a soldier 
of the Continental line.  5th. Letter of Honble Daniel 
Webster Secretary of State stating that the Washington 
Papers have been examined for evidence of the military 
service of Anthony Murphy, but the search has been 
unsuccessful.

The Commissioner by the act of sending these 
papers to me in effect intimates that there is nothing in them 
which would cause him to allow the case, or instead of
Page 45

sending them to me, he would have addressed a letter 
to you recommending the allowance of the case.

I am
With the Highest Respect 
Your Obedt. Servt.
Isaac N Coffin

Honble. Alexander H H Stuart
Secretary of the Interior 
Washington, D. C.
Page 46

Department of the Interior, 
Washington June 10th 1853

Sir:

Your decision, on the appeal of Isaac 
N. Coffin, in the case of Mary Murden, formerly  
widow of Anthony Murphy a claimant under the 
Act of July 7. 1838, is affirmed, and the papers 
accompanying your report herewith returned to 
you.

I am Sir, very respectfully 
Your Obedient Servant,
R W. McClelland
Secretary

The Hon. L. P. Waldo }
Commissioner }
of Pensions }
Page 47

Department of the Interior 
Washington Der. 17. 1852

Sir,

Upon an examination of the claim of 
Mrs. Mary Murden widow of Anthony Murphy decd. 
I find that the acting Commissioner of Pensions 
in his report of the 3d of August last, has fallen 
into an error, in stating "that no additional 
evidence" had been filed by the Claimant since 
May 1849, when the rejection of the claim by the 
then Commissioner of Pensions was affirmed by my 
predecessor Mr. Ewing, and therefore return the pap
pers in the case for re-examination & report in 
connexion [connection] with the additional evidence.

I am very respectfully 
Your Obedient Servant 
Alexr H. H. Stuart
Secretary 

James G. Heath Esqr. }
Commissioner of Pensions. }
Page 48

(Copy)

Department of the Interior
Washington, Decr. 17. 1852

Sir,

Upon an examination of the claim of 
Mrs. Mary Murden, widow of Anthony Murphey
decd., I find that the Acting Commissioner of 
Pensions, in his report of the 3d August last, has fallen 
into an error in stating "that no additional evidence"
had been filed by the Claimant since May 1849, when 
the rejection of the claim by the then Commissioner of 
Pensions was affirmed by my predecessor Mr. Ewing 
and therefore return the papers in the case for re ex
amination and report, in connexion [connection] with the 
additional evidence.

I am, very respectfully 
Your Obt. Servant
(signed) Alexr H. H. Stuart
Secretary 

Commissioner }
of Pensions }
Page 49

Washington Feb 28. 1850.

Sir,

Enclosed I hand you a power of atty from Mrs
Mary Murden widow of Capt. Anthony Murphy, who claims 
a pension under act of 7 July 1838.  I hand you also the 
depositions of S. A Brock, Jno G.Rainey- Cary Fentress (Notary 
Public of the City of Norfolk) J. R. Hubard, attorney for the 
Commonwealth, & Hon Jno. S. Millson member of Congress
from the District, all going to establish beyond question the 
genuineness and authenticity of the paper previously filed & 
containing proof that Anthony Murphy was a Captain.

Mr. Brock was the Administrator of the of the Executor of 
Capt. Murphy & the paper came thus into his hands, which 
he says he carefully ironed & delivered to Jno. G. Rainey, who 
sent them up to the Pension Officer.

The character of these witnesses cannot be impugned or the 
authenticity of the paper denied, upon the simple assertion that 
"these papers are believed not be genuine".

I may hand you other papers soon.  I am informed 
that if it be desired, you can have any number establishing the 
character & veracity of the witnesses here enclosed.

Yrs
J Knox Walker.
Page 50

Pension Office
September 11 1852

Sir,

I return herewith the papers 
in the case of Mary Murden formerly 
widow of Anthony Murphy inclosed [enclosed] in your 
letter of the 3d July last and have to inform 
you that on Appeal the papers were sent to 
the Secretary of the Interior on the 3d August ult:
where they now are and where you can 
file the additional evidence if you think 
proper.

I am respectfully 
Your Obt. Svt.
JE Heath
Commr.

I. N. Coffin Esq }
Present. }
Page 51

At a Court held for Princess Anne County the 3d. day of May 1852.

The Court doth order it to be certified that satisfactory evidence has been 
adduced to the Court to prove that Swepson A. Brock of this County, is a 
man of good standing and worthy of full faith and credit in his statements; 
that he was a deputy sheriff at one time under his father in law; that his 
father was the administrator of Jesse Morris' estate, that Jesse Morris was the 
administrator of Capt. Anthony Murphy's estate, and in this way the pa
pers of Capt. Anthony Murphy fell into the hands of said Swepson A. Brock.
The Court further certifies that from the oath of John G. Rainey a respect
able witness, they believe the papers of Capt. Anthony Murphy found by 
Swepson A. Brock at his house to be genuine and not spurious; and that 
the papers now on file in the City of Washington are the identical papers 
found at the said Brock's house and sent by said Brock to Thomas Moore 
of Norfolk City.

I, John J. Burroughs clerk of the County Court of Prin
cess Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do certify that the above 
is a true and correct transcript from the records of the said Court.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my 
hand and affixed the seal of the said County Court of 
Princess Anne at the Courthouse, this 5th day of 
May one thousand eight hundred and fifty 
two, and in the 76th year of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C. C.
Page 52

James L. Edwards Esq  Washington D. C
Commissioner of Pensions  April 25. 1849

Sir

I inclose [enclose] herewith three
Depositions, in addition to those already on 
the files of your office, respecting the 
application for a pension by Mary 
Murden, widow of Capt Anthony 
Murphy, to which I respectfully 
ask early attention.

Deposition Mary Murden  I am Sir
" Thos Campbell  With Respect 
" Keoder Clapp - Yr Obt Svt
" Marriage bond - Rd Burgess
Page 53

[Written vertically left margin]

April 25/49

James L. Edwards Esq
Page 54

Papers Nos. 14, 15, & 16
Believed to be fraudulent.
Page 55

Washington Augst. 21st. 1852.

Sir:

In conformity to the Regulations of your Department of 
June 5th 1852 in relation to Appeals, which requires "when the report is received at the 
Department" "the attorney" "to file" "any argument with he may propose to submit 
on the questions involved in the Appeal."  I herewith file such argument in the case 
of Mrs. Mary Murden the widow of Capt. Anthony Murphy.

In my letter dated July 10, 1852, I solicited of you stating-"This 
"case was reported on to the Secretary of the Interior on May 12, 1849 but we ask a Revision 
"of the case and claim that we have a right to a Revision as there are errors in matters of [words struck out] in the Report of the Commissioner 
"of Pensions on which Errors, the Decision of the Secretary of the Interior was made and 
"this has always been deemed by the Department as good ground for a Revision."  The fact 
of your referring the whole Appeal to the Pension Office without any indorsement [endorsement] 
restricting its investigation solely to the second question-"as to the authenticity of certain 
Documentary evidence,"-is a decision acceding to the request for a Revision of the case 
generally-and the fact of the Pension Office having acted with such understanding stating 
in its letter of the 3d. inst. that the-"argument above referred to" "I have carefully read 
"but which has failed to convince me"-is a statement that it has considered the subject, which 
considering, admits the decision by you that the first subject contained in my communication 
should be considered by you and by the Pension Office and therefore I infer that the whole 
subject is open to argument.  And therefore the words "which decision was affirmed" 
in its letter of 3d. inst., being expressed after your decision & reference, has no effect and even 
if expressed before, as it is invalid in principle-because a decision made on errors of fact is no
standing decision,-would have no effect.  As a Precedent of a Revision & Reversal 
of a Decision of a Secretary I respectfully refer you to that made on Decr 1. 1849 by letter of 
the Secretary of the Interior where the facts (the history of the Country) were equally before both 
Secretaries, and where
notwithstanding, the Secretary of the Interior decided as follows: "In this position Mrs.
Page 56

"Marcy's clearly mistaken, Gibson's Regiment belonged the Virginia State Line." But in 
the case of Mary Murden he had nothing (no argument or Statement for Mary Murden-) but the errors of the Commissioner before him.

The letter of the Pension Office of Augst. 3. 1852 states-"which decision 
"was affirmed by the then Secty of the Interior (Mr. Ewing) as you will perceive from a copy 
"of a letter marked "A" among the papers directed to Richard Burgess and dated 15th May 
1849."  The Letter of 15th May 1849 of the Secretary of the Interior states "Unless the 
"claimant shall produce such proof as the report of the Commissioner shows to be 
"necessary it is utterly useless to press the claim any further."  In the Reasons of Appeal 
Nine Errors are not only asserted by me to exist in this "report of the Commissioner"
alluded to by the Secretary but absolutely quoted, pointed out, precisely and specifically shown 
and demonstrated to exist.  In those Reasons of Appeal it is demonstrated that "such proof as the 
"report of the Commissioner shows to be necessary" is contrary to the law of July 7. 1838 
under which she claims.  The very language of the Secretary in the words "the report of the 
Commissioner shows"-shows a mistake by him and that he supposed from 
that report that "such proof" was required by law-whereas in fact it is not 
required by law.

That which shows that the law requires that it shall 
not be required is as follows.  In conformity with the law of June 7. 1832 which 
requires "that the pay allowed by this Act shall""be paid to the officer" when he "furnish 
the said Secretary satisfactory evidence, and the Act of July 7. 1838 which grants "the annuity 
or pensions" "of her husband in virtue of said Act" and the words "in virtue of said 
Act" certainly includes the whole of said Act and of course grants her the right of "the 
officer" to "furnish satisfactory evidence" and "satisfactory evidence" does not require 
record evidence, but is, what is evidence "in law," or "[illegible] by Atty Genls opinion of June 23. 1846:---in conformity 
with these two laws, and with the Regulations, under the Act of July 7. 1838 which 
require that "proof as to service" "must be had" from the "affidavits of persons of known 
respectability" the Secretary of the Interior Decided on March 19th. 1850 that the law 
is "still such evidence [parol] may prove the fact fully and certainly and if it 
"does this Department has no right to reject it."  This Decision, thus, in special
Page 57

accordance with the laws and with the Regulations, is fully borne out and sanctioned by  
the Precedents as follows:  In the year 1845 the claim of Thomas Coles of Rhode Island 
was allowed on Appeal for the difference between the pension of a Lieutenant and Aid-de-
camp on the testimony of one witness notwithstanding the Record showing his services as Lieutenant 
[struck out: show] nothing as Aid-de-camp & in the year 1850 claims of Absalom Peters, Sarah Heston
Mary Bailey, Wm Martin, Nathaniel Judson and Margaret Irwin were increased to $600 
upon parol evidence, they having been previously allowed the pay of officers upon parol 
evidence alone: and in the case of Lieut. Barrow-under the Act of July 5. 1832 the Secretary 
of the Interior Decided that parol testimony was sufficient to establish any grade. 
But in opposition to the above laws--in opposition to the above precedents--and 
in opposition to what the Secretary on March 19th. 1850 Decided, as above noted was law are the 
words of the letter of the Pension Office of May 12. 1849 as follows "We have no instance 
"whatever for service as a commissioned officer allowed a claim unless the commission has been 
"produced, or some record or documentary evidence tantamount to a commission." 

In your Decision in the case of Rhoda O'Quinn vide Mayo & Mouls
ton's edition of the Pension Laws page 533 it is stated that "John O'Quinn states he served"
"one tour as a volunteer" "There is no reason to suppose that his volunteer service was less 
"than twelve months."  In the case of Captain Anthony Murphy as he was an Officer 
and they are often and usually appointed for an indefinite length of time, it is probable 
that he was thus appointed.  But even supposing his first term of service as Captain of volunteers extended to no more 
than twelve months, it is probable that he instantly engaged for another period of twelve months. 
And it is more likely, being an Officer, than in case of John O'Quinn that his first 
term (if there were any terms or intervals) was at least as long as his and also that his duration of 
service was two years as there is much stronger evidence than in his case being a 
constant eye witness who personally knows and twice as a "devout Christian" solemnly 
swears that he actually served under him two years-corroborated by much other testimony.

The Letter of the Pension Office of Augst. 3d. 1852 states "No additional 
evidence has been received."  Evidence of the Auditor of Virginia was filed before 
my Appeal of July 10. 1852, which proves the utter improbability of procuring the Record
Page 58

Evidence required in the Letter of the Pension Office of May 12th 1849 to the Secretary 
of the Interior [struck out: to wit Record Evidence]-and therefore it is important evidence, as it is 
a usage of the Pension Office where Record Evidence is proved not to exist to receive 
parol.  Also evidence of Anthony Murphy's service as a private is contained in the 
Certificate of the Auditor of Virginia dated 19th May 1852 provided £19 or$63, paid 
to Col. Cropper for his service while a private in the Continental Line-the experience 
he gained in that service caused him to be appointed a Captain of Volunteers in 1781.
Also the Affidavit of Keziah Williams who swears she was "well and intimately acquainted
"with Captain Anthony Murphy from her youth, that she distinctly recollects that he was a Captain 
"in the Revolutionary War about the year 1781 and continued to be Captain until peace was 
"declared,"-and Affidavits of David Grinstead and Margaret Rainey, have all, 
being 5 pieces of important evidence been filed as proved by their dates since the letter of Pension Office of 
May 12th 1849.

The Letter of the Pension Office of Augst. 3d. states that the Reasons 
of Appeal have "failed to convince" it.  But the mere fact that they have failed to 
convince it, amounts to nothing.  Numerous errors are proved to exist in the letter of 
May 12th. 1849.  The Decisions of the Highest Tribunals of Appeals are considered by the law to be 
right-but they in thousands of instances reverse the decisions of the inferior 
tribunal, and of course the decisions of the inferior tribal being perfectly opposite 
must be wrong.  But although the inferior tribunal is composed of very able 
judges, nothing will or can convince them that they are wrong, and the mere fact 
they they are not convinced does not prove that they are not wrong.  So in this case 
the fact that the Pension Office is not convinced that it is not wrong 
does not prove that it is not wrong.
[Written vertically left margin of this paragraph] Recd Aug 23. 1852
[Written vertically right margin of this paragraph] No 216[illegible] 2[illegible]

As she is therefore actually included by the law of July 7. 1838 as 
widow of a Captain of two years service, I respectfully solicit of you that she may not 
be deprived of what that law has conveyed to her.

P.S.  This paper is filed within the I Am,
15 days prescribed by Regulation of   With the Highest Respect 
June 5th., as the first notice I had  Your Obedt Servt.
of the report of Augst 3. was on the  Isaac N. Coffin
13th. inst Respectfully &c
I.N.C.

Honble. Alexander H H Stuart,
Secretary of the Interior,
Washington, D. C.
Page 59

Washington DC
Jany 24. 1850

Col. James L. Edwards 
Commissioner of Pensions 

Sir

Enclosed are papers 
relating to the Revolutionary services 
of Capt Anthony Murphy, whose 
widow Mary Murden claims a 
pension under the Act of 1836. 
These papers consist of a Certificate 
of Princess Anne County Court as to the 
loss of the records of that County from 
Dec 1780 to February 1782.
A Letter addressed to Capt Murphy 
signed by Amos Wicks Capt dated 
1st Sept. 1781.
A Certificate that Maliki Corbell 
had joined Capt Murphys Co. dated 
24 March 1781.
& two other papers of a miscellaneous 
[struck out: papers] character & a Deposition of S. A Brook 
as to the way in which those papers 
were found.
Respectfully 
Yr Obt Servt
R. Burgess
Page 60

No. 17
Feb 1850
Page 61

The deposition of John G. Rainy who first being 
duly sworn according to law deposeth and sayeth 
that he was present when Mr. Swepson Brock [illegible] 
the papers alluded to in his deposition viz a letter 
directed to Capt Antony Murphy and signed by a Amos 
Wicks and two or three other papers all of which he 
firmly believes are genuine, and that the same papers 
are the very identical papers sent to Washington to 
Mr. Richard Burgess for the benefit of Mrs. Mary Murden.
Sworn & subscribed this 8th day of February 1850
John G Rainey
Int testimony whereof, I have herewith 
[Blurred seal of office] set my hand and affixed my sea [seal] of office
Cary Fentress
Notary Public

I also state I have long known 
John J Rainy-and believe him to 
be a gentleman of high character
Cary Fentress
Page 62

Norfolk February 9. 1850.  I have known 
Mr. John G. Rainey of the County of Princess Anne 
for many years and have never had reason 
to doubt his integrity or verasity [veracity]
J. R. Hubard
See my certificate on the back of the affiant of S.
A. Brock.  John S. Millson

[Written vertically left margin]
No. 17.
Feb 1850
Page 63

Washington April 7th. 1852.

Sir:

I herewith transmit Power of Attorney from 
Mary Murden to me of Princess Anne Co Va, [struck out: formerly] the widow of Captain 
Anthony Murphy, in the Revolutionary Pension case 
of said Mary Murden under the Act of July 7. 
1838, and request that the same may be filed among 
the papers in that case in the Pension Office.
I am 
With the Highest Respect 
Your Obedt Servt
Isaac N Coffin

James E Heath Esq. 
Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington, D.C.
Page 64

Department of State,
Washington, June 21. 1852.

Isaac N. Coffin, Esqr.
Washington.

Sir:

An examination has been made 
of the Washington Papers, in compliance 
with the request contained in your let
ter of the 22nd May, for evidence of 
the military service of Anthony Mur
phy, who, it is alleged, was in the 
Virginia and Maryland Lines as a 
Captain during the Revolutionary 
War; but the search instituted has 
proved unsuccessful.

There are a few returns in which 
Colo. Cropper's name occurs, but 
there do not appear to be any rolls
Page 65

wherein are found the names of 
Colos. Parkem, Ackiss (or Vickiss) 
or Robinson, with some, or all of 
whom, it is presumed Murphy 
served.
I am, Sir, respectfully,
Your Obedient Servant, 
Danl Webster
Page 66

Washington July 3d. 1852.

Sir:

I herewith transmit the following papers in 
the case of Mary Murden widow of Anthony Murphy 
of Virginia (her first husband) a Revolutionary Pension case 
under the Act of July 7. 1838 viz:

1. Certificate of Court of Princess Anne County that 
certain papers are genuine.  2d. The Deposition of Margaret
Rainey that Anthony Murphy was a Captain in the 
Revolutionary War.  3d. The Letter of Robert Johnson Esq
Auditor of Virginia stating that the Registers of his office 
have been examined and the name Captain Anthony 
Murphy cannot be found.  4th The Certificate of 
Robert Johnson Esq. Auditor of Virginia showing that 
Anthony Murphy served as a soldier of Infantry in 
the Continental line.  5th. Letter of Honble. Daniel 
Webster Secretary of State stating that the Washington 
Papers have been examined for evidence of the military 
service of Anthony Murphy, but the search has 
been unsuccessful.  Which papers I respectfully request 
may be filed with the other papers in that case.
I am, 
Very Respectfully Your Obt Servt
Isaac N Coffin

James E. Heath Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 67

Know all men by these presents that I Mary Murden 
of Princess Ann County in the State of Virginia ...
widow of Antony Murphy Captain of Militia of the State 
of Virginia in the Revolutionary War...
do hereby nominate constitute and appoint Isaac N
Coffin of Washington in the District of Columbia my lawful 
Attorney to prosecute all claims for the services in the 
Revolutionary War of Captain Antony Murphy on the  
United States or the State of Virginia both or either and either 
in right of said Anthony Murphy or in right of pension 
of myself...as widow of said Antony 
Murphy...under the Act of July 7th 1838 or any 
other Act of Congress and to make all examinations requisite 
in any of the Public Offices at Washington or elsewhere 
and to receive the pension certificate when the pension 
above named is allowed, and in consideration of ten  
dollars to me in hand paid by said Isaac N Coffin 
the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, this Power of 
Attorney is made irrevocable.  Witness my hand and seal this 
sixth day of February 1852.  Mary her X mark Murden [word Seal encircled]
Signed sealed & delivered in presence of 
Wm G Camp
Mary F Ballentine

State of Virginia } to Wit: This day personally appeared before 
Norfolk City } me a Justice of the Peace in and for
said city, duly authorized by law to 
administer oaths, Mary Murden --- the subscriber to 
the foregoing Power of Attorney and acknowledged the same
Page 68

to be her free act and deed, and I also certify that the said 
Mary Murden ... made oath before me on this day 
that she is directly interested as the claimant to the pension 
mentioned in the foregoing Power of Attorney,-- as witness 
my hand and seal this 6th day of February 1852.
Wm. G. Camp J.P. [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia City of Norfolks sc:

I John Williams Clerk of the Court of the Corporation of the 
City of Norfolk aforesaid, do hereby certify that William G. Camp 
Esquire who hath given the above certificate, was on the day of the date 
thereof a justice of the peace in and for the said City duly appointed 
and qualified-that he was authorized to take the acknowledgement of 
deeds & that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such 
and that the signature "Wm. G Camp" thereto subscribed is genuine 
as I do verily believe.  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto annexed 
[Blurred seal of Court] the seal of the said Court, and subscribed 
my name this sixth day of April in 
the year of our Lord one thousand eight 
hundred and fifty two, and of the 
Commonwealth the seventy sixth.
Jno. Williams cc
Page 69

Washington Nov 19th 1850

Mr Godwin

Sir Mrs. Mary Murden 
wishes you to attend to her business 
in regard to her pension due to her 
for the services of her husband Capt 
Antoney Murphy in the war of the 
Revolution the papers are filed in the pension 
office and I filed them as a greater part 
and have the control of them but it is 
improbable for me to attend to them. I
therefore which you to act for her in 
my place. Mr. Edwards is conversant with 
the claim and knows me to have the 
management of it, and he will I am 
shure [sure] be kind enough to let you examine 
the papers by so doing you will oblige  Yours 
Very Respectfully 
Thos Moore for 
Mrs Mary Murden 

[Note at bottom of page]
Mary Murden widow 
Anthony Murphy 
Princess Anne Co 
Virginia
Page 70

No. 24

April 1852
Page 71

Auditor's Office 
Richmond 26th April 1852

Isaac N Coffin

Sir

Your letter of the 21st 
instant is at hand.

The Registers of this office have 
been examined and the name 
of Capt Anthony Murphy has 
not been found.
P.S. Enclosed you  Yours Respectfully
will find the power  Ro. Johnston
of attorney sent by you }  per  E. S. Hewitt
to this office. E.S.H
Page 72

Washington July 10th. 1852.

Sir:

In conformity with the Regulations of your Department 
of Feby 6th. & June 5th. in relation to Appeals, I hereby Appeal from the Decision of 
the Commissioner of Pension in the case of Mary Murden the widow of Capt. 
Anthony Murphy (her first husband) of Virginia a Revolutionary Pension case 
under the Act of July 7. 1838,-and herewith furnish the Reasons of Appeal.
This case was reported on to the Secretary of the Interior on May 12th. 1849 and we ask a 
Revision of the case and claim that we have a Right to a Revision as there 
are Errors in matters of fact in that Report of the Commissioner of Pension, on which 
Errors the Decision of the Secretary of the Interior was made-and this has always been deemed by 
the Departments as good ground for a Revision.  And also we have a Right to Appeal 
on the new question which has never been decided by any Secretary of the Interior, of the
authenticity of certain Documentary Evidence-from the decision of the Pension Office 
of March 12th.1851.

Errors of proceeding by some of the Highest Judicial Tribunals 
in the land are often pointed out, and their decisions reversed in consequence and 
therefore it cannot be offensive to the Pension Office to have errors pointed out, and the 
wonder is knowing the mass of business with which it is pressed that there are not many more 
than there are.

1st Error.  The Letter of the Pension Office of May 12, 1849 states, "Paper No 1,
"her declaration states in general terms, that her husband was the Captain of a Volunteer Company 
"that the served at different times as much as two years in the revolutionary war, and that she 
"has frequently heard him speak of the battles he was in.  In this paper there is no specifica
"tion whatever as to the service, except that he was a Captain of Volunteers.  This assertion is 
"wholly without foundation.  There was no such corps known during the whole revolutionary 
"struggle as a company of volunteers."  That there were such as were in fact Voluntters
Page 73

Companies proved by the law-and by the Regulations under it-and therefore 
it was right, reasonable, proper and consistent to use the term used by law-and 
as if there "volunteers" there were companies composed of Volunteers or Volunteer 
Companies.  As the Act of July 7. 1838 grants to her "the annuity or pension" of her 
husband in virtue of said Act [of June 7. 1832] and the Act of June 7. 1832 uses 
the word "volunteers" twice-the Regulations under it at page 92 Pension Laws 
uses the terms "State troops militia and volunteers"-at page 94 "State troops volunteers and 
militia"-at page 96 "militia, State Troops or volunteers" and at page 94 it is required 
to be stated "whether he" "was a volunteer."  She states in "Paper No 1" that he was "Captain 
of a Volunteer company"-of course expressing the idea Captain of a company whose 
members volunteered and expressed in the simple terms which an old woman would use.
She does not state that there was a company called by the words of the law the "company 
of volunteers" or the "Volunteer corps" but she speaks of those who volunteered.

The Report states "This assertion is wholly without foundation" Because "There was no such 
"corps known" [of course here meaning as is believed known to the law as it was the law which 
made the State troops of Militia] "during the whole Revolutionary struggle as a 
"company of volunteers."  That, which it supposes her to say has not been asserted and 
therefore the observation that it without foundation falls to the ground.

2nd Error.  The Letter of May 12. 1849 states, "There is no specification as to the 
"time when nor the place or places where."  In her 2d. Declaration which was on file in 
the Pension  Office before the date of the Letter of the Commissioner, she states "in the year of our 
Lord 1781"-"that he served the war out"--"in this County where the services 
"of my husband Antony Murphy was performed."  Thus it appears instead of there being 
NO specification as to time and place, there is, of both.

3d. Error.  The Letter of May 12. 1849 states "If the deceased actually served 
"as a Captain there must be record proof of the fact somewhere.  It is the fact in Virginia and 
"has been so time immemorial to record the recommendation of the county court (or the Hustings 
"Court as the case may be) whenever any applicant is recommended for a commission in the 
"militia.  If therefore Mr Murphy was a militia officer (for a volunteer captain he could not
Page 74

"have been) evidence of the fact must be found in the office of the county clerk in the County where 
"he resided."---The Clerk of the County Court of Princess Anne County 
solemnly certifies-"there is no entry or record of the said Court of its minutes or 
"proceedings from the 14th. day of Decr. 1780 till the 14th. day of February 1782 and I 
"presume that as the records of said Court were removed during the war, that they must 
"have been away during the period above named."  The only other "somewhere" is the Public 
Records of Virginia and there are none shewing [showing] his service in the militia as Captain is proved by the Letter of
the Auditor of Virginia among the papers.  The Secretary of the Interior decides March 19, 1850 in Letter to Comr: "Still such evidence [illegible] may not prove the fact fully and certainly and if it does this Department has no right to reject it."  The usage of the Pension Office is where its proved there is no 
Record Evidence to admit parol.

4th Error.  The Letter states "The declaration is also defective in not shewing [showing] to 
"what regiment he belonged, and neither the name nor rank of any field officer of the 
"regiment is given."  The Second Declaration dated April 21st. 1849 shews [shows] that he belonged 
to Col. Robinson's Regiment.  Both the name and rank are given.

5th Error.  "The next paper, No 2, is the affidavit of Keador Copps, who 
"swears that he was intimately acquainted with Captain Anthony Murphy; and that he 
"knew him in the year 1781 and 1782; that he was always called Captain Murphy and that 
"he has every reason to believe that he served in the revolutionary war.  Such proof as this amounts 
"to nothing."  The evidence here is not fully quoted, the words omitted being "as he has 
"often heard it said that he was."  This reason why he so believed is the very evidence mentioned 
in the Regulation under the Act of June 7. 1832 as "very important" as follows--and as 
the Act of July 7. 1838 grants "the annuity or pension" of "her husband in virtue of said Act"
of June 7. 1832, to the widow, and the Regulations of June 27th. 1832 (page 97 Pension Laws) were 
authorized by the law, of course with the transfer of the pension went all the rights under it--
and therefore the right of establishing it by Traditionary evidence. These Regulations state 
"The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important in the absence of any direct proof, 
"except the declaration of the party."  "To require from the applicants positive proof of service from 
"a contemporary survivor, would after the lapse of so many years, be to deprive many of them of the
"benefit of the law; and, as no presumption is raised against the militia by the existence of rolls in 
"the Department, there is no good reason why this requisition should be extended to them."  Also 
by Regulations specially authorized by law of July 9. 1836 (page 102 Pension Laws) as to widow's pensions it was "prescribed by the
Page 75

President of the United States" that "Traditionary evidence will be deemed useful in 
every such case."  Thus, that, is stated "amounts to nothing," which is by law established 
as "Very Important and Useful."

6th. Error.  The Letter states "Paper No. 3 is the affidavit of Thomas 
"Campbell who swears that he was enrolled in the militia in 1781 under Captain 
"Nimmow, and served under Captain Anthony Murphy in a volunteer 
"company until the war was ended.  He further says that he has no recollec
"tion of the field officers except Col John Nekiss or (Ackiss) and one Col.
"Robinson.  There is nothing specific or satisfactory."  The Regulations 
"prescribed by the President" as just above quoted have shown that mere 
traditionary evidence is "satisfactory"--and certainly the testimony of one who 
saw him in service would be immeasurably beyond tradionary evidence. 
But Thomas Campbell proved to be a "Devout Christian" solemnly swears 
that he actually served under him and this evidence is 
infinitely beyond either of the two other kinds of evidence, and therefore the 
very strongest obligation exists on you that it should be considered 
"satisfactory."

7th Error.  The Letter states "Paper No 4. is the affidavit of 
"Jonathan Frizzle who swears that he was intimately acquainted with 
"Captain Anthony Murphy, who was a Captain of a Volunteer Company 
"in the time of the revolutionary war, and that he often saw him parading his 
"company.  There is nothing specific or satisfactory in this."  What there 
is specific is, that although he did not see him in actual service in the 
field [struck out: and] that he has "often seen him parading his company" "in the time of 
the Revolutionary War."  An Officer who had been like him a long 
time in the Revolutionary War and therefore appreciated the danger from 
the disciplined troops of the enemy would naturally be "often seen" "parading his 
company for discipline which is a fact nearly connected with service and is presumptive 
evidence which is corroborative of the large mass of other testimony, and 
therefore causes that to be "satisfactory."

8th Error.  The Letter in commenting upon the testimony 
of James Murphy states "Paper No 5 is the deposition of James Murphy who swears that 

[Written vertically left margin]
Honble Alexander HH Stuart
Page 76

"Anthony Murphy was a Sergeant Major in the army during the revolution, and that 
"he staid [stayed] away at least 18 months; that he came home and afterwards commanded a volunteer 
"company, and that he has often heard him speak of his having been in the battles of Brandywine, 
"Trenton, Monmouth, and at the storming of Stoney Point.  These actions were not all within 
"the space of eighteen months, and the whole narrative has the appearance of fiction.  We must 
"suppose, if these statements are true, that there was a man who was eighteen months a Sergeant 
"Major in an unknown regiment, and that during that time he was in a number of battles,
"the first of which took place in December 1776, and the last in July 1779; that he was a Captain 
"of a Company of Volunteers two years, but to what regiment he belonged or where he served, no one 
"can tell."  First it mentions "We must suppose, if these statements are 
"true, that the was a man who was eighteen months a Sergeant Major in an unknown 
"regiment, and that during that time he was in a number battles, the first of which took 
"place in December 1776 and the last in July 1779." This is an Error, because James 
Murphy does not state "who was eighteen months" but does state that he (Anthony Mur 
phy) was in the Army during the Revolutionary War, and that he stayed away some 
"time, as much at least as eighteen months."  He does not undertake to specify 
with precision how long he staid [stayed] away, but states that it was as much at least as eighteen months, 
where, it appears the difference between the first and last battle mentioned was 13 
more months than the time stated.  As he does not limit the time no such suppo
sition can naturally result from his statement.  The letter states "that he was Captain 
"of a Company of Volunteers two years, but to what regiment he belonged, or where he 
"served, no one can tell."  The Official Certificate of the Auditor of Virginia 
filed by me among the papers shows that he received £19.0.10d for depreciation 
or balance.  Now this positively shows that Anthony Murphy served in the 
Revolutionary Army, but to what regiment he belonged, or where he served, "no" record 
whatever "can tell."  But this does not in the least invalidate the Record, that he did 
serve, and if does not invalidate the Record, it cannot invalidate the testimony of
Page 77

James Murphy or of Thomas Campbell that he did serve.  They positively know 
as certainly as they know that they exist that Anthony Murphy served as Captain in the 
Revolutionary War and no Court has a right, where a witness positively 
knows a fact as Thomas Campbell does and was himself a part of that fact 
as the existence of the company caused existence of its Captain--because he cannot recollect 
the particulars attending that fact, to discard his evidence--neither has the Depart
ment the right in this case to discard the evidence of Thomas Campbell that Anthony 
Murphy served two years as Captain, and the evidence of James Murphy because they  
do not state all the particulars attending his service.

The Letter of May 12. 1849 also stated that to admit the evidence it would be necessary 
to suppose improbable things as follows:--"We must suppose" "that the witnesses never themselves 
"applied for pensions, although from the statement of one of them he actually served two years." 
This is a matter that it is not necessary to "suppose" as the Records of the Pension Office 
show a List of every application and the action on it and therefore plainly shows that 
Thomas Campbell never applied--and also the Records and Files of the Office 
show that hundreds and hundreds have lived as long as Thomas Campbell has--in the 
country--and so distant from the seat of Government as he did, who, in their 
papers account for the delay by the fact that the "pension laws" were "not" known" by 
them.  And up to the present minute there are many citizens of high intelligence to 
whom they are "not known."

9th. Error.  The Letter of May 12. 1849 states "The evidence cannot 
"be admitted without a violation of all the rules which have heretofore governed the 
"Department in all similar cases."  It is possible for the Pension Office to make an 
error, as much as it is possible for the most learned and astute Judges in the land to make 
an error--and whose Decisions notwithstanding they must be equally presumed to 
know "the rules which have heretofore governed," are frequently Decided by the Supreme 
Courts to be erroneous.  The Rules thus alluded to by the Letter are those made in 
accordance with the law of July 7. 1838 which requires "shall be entitled to receive"
"under such regulations as the President of the United States may prescribe" and the "Regulations"
Page 78

"prescribed by the President of the United States and adopted by the Secretary 
of War" and therefore are "the rules which have heretofore govern
ed the Department" do "prescribe" that "Applicants must produce 
the best proof the nature of the case will allow as to the service of the deceased officer 
or soldier" and do require "Proof as to service" "must be had" from the "affidavits 
of persons of known respectability."  If these "affidavits of persons of known respectability"
do absolutely show service--the President has no power--the Secretary of 
the Interior has no power as he has Decided as shown at page 3d. (lines 18th & 19th) hereof --the Pension Office has no power to prevent this law 
and this Regulation from being carried "into effect" in the pension therein provided for. 
That the affidavits in this case are "affidavits of persons of known respectability" is 
conclusively demonstrated as follows and not only of "known respectability" but even 
more one of them proved to be a "devout Christian" and two others proved to be members 
of the church of good standing."  By the "Rules" even traditionary evidence is admissible in 
widow's pensions as at page 103 Pension Laws--and also cases might be entirely established by 
Traditionary Evidence under the Act of June 7. 1832 and this Regulation was approved and 
"10,000 of them printed by Order of Congress" as shown at page 114 Pension Laws.  The Act of 
July 7. 1838 grants "the annuity or pension" of "her husband in virtue of said Act" of 7th June 
1832 and therefore in effect--and in accordance with propriety reason justice and fairness 
grants the same right to establish it by traditionary evidence.  As therefore mere
traditionary evidence is allowed by law and by You to establish a claim, it is hereby 
respectfully represented that there is infinitely stronger reason to allow this claim when the 
testimony of Thomas Campbell shows he not merely saw Captain Murphy in service as is 
the testimony in 99 cases out of a hundred by actually served under 
him two years--and in addition to this six other persons testify to facts which show that 
he was in the service.  In the Regulations for widow's pensions at page 103 Pension Laws 
it is stated "the claimant must in every case produce the testimony of at least one credible 
witness" which one witness might have merely seen him in service, and which would have 
been ample testimony--but in this case the "one credible witness" actually served under him.

The Act of June 7. 1832 also states shall "furnish the said Secretary satisfactory
Page 79

evidence."  Thus it gives to you the Power on being satisfied that a person served, to 
grant the pension, and if a duty rests on you to be satisfied on traditionary 
evidence as it self evidently does by the Regulations which the President did prescribe 
and Congress approved as hereinbefore shown--this is certainly a vastly stronger 
obligation to be "satisfied" in the present case with the large amount of evidence 
therein--which is an amount of evidence which on a trial for murder would hang yourself and 
thus the law of July 7. 1838 cannot require greater.

10th. Error.  Another Error in the case is one contained in another 
Letter of the Pension Office dated March 12th. 1851, in relation to certain 
Original Documentary Evidence found among Captain Anthony Murphy's 
papers: the letter of the Pension Office states--"that the papers filed as original 
were never written by the person or one the occasions pretended, seems evident." 
The principal papers here adverted to are one with the date[struck out: d] of 24 March 1781 in it 
signed Antony Murphy relative to Malachi Corbell and one signed Amos 
Wicks Capt. with the date in it of 1st. Sept 1781 addressed to Capt Anthony 
Murphy.  The first paper is in the following words and figures verbatim et literation 
"this is to Justify that Malachi Corbell has com in my Company this day 
"24 March 1781.  Antony Murphy Cpt.
"Capt. John Whithead."

The second paper is as follows

"Capt Antony Murphys Sir
"I Wont you to march your Company to namis Creek by friday the 
"twenty Six of September and I will meet you thiar if life last for I Lament 
"the Death of our liftenent Walker and Must put a Sopt to the 
"Britishes in that part of the County this the first day of Sept 1781
yours with respect 
Amos Wicks Capt."

It is self evident on the face of these papers that no one who was 
so illiterate as the writer of these papers shows himself to be could forge papers with 
so much ingenuity and so well adapted in circumstances & associations as they are to 
the events of that day.  We deny that these papers are false papers and cite
the following evidence among the papers to show that they are not, first [illegible]
that the "Regulations" which "the President of the United States" did "prescribe"
Page 80

as to evidence in pensions granted by Act of July 7. 1838 viz "the affidavits of persons 
of known respectability" apply---to the authenticity of papers 
--as one of the subjects involved in the adjudication of pensions. 
And it is not just that the mere personal, individual opinion that the paper merely 
"seems" not to be authentic is to be taken as conclusive against all evidence.  The "affidavits 
of persons of known respectability" which the law of July 7. 1838 requires as shown above 
shall be received to prove that these papers are authentic are 1st. The Affidavit of Swepson 
A Brock.  He is proved by the Justice's Certificate of J. A Munden Esq. J.P. to be "a gentleman"
well known to him and "full faith and credit can and ought to be given to his statement"--Also proved by the 
Justices Certificate of Cary Fentress Esq. (on Affidavit of 9th. Feb 1850) to be "a gentleman of high
character"--Also proved by James R Hubbard Esq. Attorney for the Commonwealth to be 
a person of credibility.  And the Honble. John S Millson proves the "very high character of 
Mr Fentress and Mr Hubard.  Also proved by the Statement of Forty Two Citizens of the 
County of Princess Anne that Mr Brock was "Sheriff of this County"-"is a man whose 
character stands above reproach" has lived "a long life remarkable for honesty and integrity" 
--and "any Statement he might make upon oath or otherwise would be entitled to the
"utmost credit."  J.A Munden and Davidson Morris Esqs. Justices of 
the Peace testify that Swepson A Brock was "Sheriff of our County with credit to himself and 
"satisfaction to the community-that he is now a member of good standing in the 
"Methodist Episcopal Church, that his character is unimpeached, in a word that he 
"is a man that stands high as a Christian."  Thus it is positively proved that 
Swepson A Brock is "a person of known respectability" and therefore whose evidence 
the law above mentioned with its overpowering control demands that the facts proved 
by his "affidavit" be taken as "Proof" and therefore no discretionary power can 
exist in the Department to reject it.  This Affidavit of Swepson A Brock of 18th. 
July 1850 proves "that he was requested by Mr. John G Rainey to search over papers in his 
possession as Executor of Noah Brock decd. who was executor of Major Jesse Morris decd. & who
Page 81

"was the Executor or Administrator of Captain Anthony Murphy decd. for the purpose of finding 
"any document or other evidence of the service of Captain Anthony Murphy in support 
"of the claim of the widow of the said Anthony Murphy decd. for a pension, and that in 
"his examination of the said papers he found a letter written and signed by Captain 
"Wicks addressed to Captain Anthony Murphy of Princess Anne Virginia which letter 
"directed said Captain Murphy to see him at Namies Creek on a certain day specified 
"in the said letter to put a stop to the British in that part of the County and the deponent 
"further declares that he verily believes the said letter to be original and genuine, together 
"with other original papers some 1, 2 or 3 in which he was styled Captain Anthony Murphy 
"& all of the said original papers he has delivered to Mr. John G Rainey."

A Second Affidavit of Swepson A Brock dated 9th Feb 1850 states the same facts generally 
as the above and also the fact that "the letter was in a rumpled state and the deponent 
ironed it"--and this may account for the circumstance that it "seems" a false paper. 

Another "Affidavit of a person of known respectability" is that of John G
Rainey of 19th. Novr. 1850.  He is proved to be a "person of known respectability" by 
the Certificate of Cary Fentress Esq. Notary Public (on J G Rainey's Affidavit of 8th. Feb 1850) who 
states him to be "a gentleman of high character,"--by the Statement of J R Hubard Esq
Attorney for the Commonwealth:--he is proved by J A Munden Esq. Elzy 
Burroughs Esq. John B Shipp Esq & Tully H Whitehurst Esq, Justices of the Peace 
to be "a man of truth and that his character is above reproach & that full faith and 
"credit can and ought to be given to his statements."  This Affidavit of John G 
Rainey proves that--"on this eighteenth day of November 1850 he has in the presence 
"of the Commissioner of Pensions James L Edwards examined three papers, one a 
"paper purporting to be an appraisement of Anthony Murphy's Estate,--one 
"a small paper where Captain Antony Murphy had taken a man by the name 
"of Corbell into his Company and signed Antony Murphy Captn--and the 
"other a letter wrote to Captn Antony Murphy by Amos Weeks to meet him at a 
"place called Naney's Creek for the purpose of surprising the British in that place 
"and signed Amos Weeks--that he was present at Mr. Swepson Brocks house
Page 82

"when the three above named papers was found, that they are the very identical papers that was 
"found whilst Mr Brock was a searching for Captn. Anthony Murphy's Commission and 
"the same delivered to Thomas Moore of Norfolk City, that when the papers above alluded 
"to was found they were amongst a number of other papers and rubbish, such as strings pieces 
"of calico and other articles in a very bad situation, that Mr Swepton Brock had to pick 
"the letter above named open and iron it out, that he see Mr. Brock iron it" &c.
Thus it is proved that these papers are genuine.  Also is filed, lately, Certifi
cate of Court of 3d. May 1852 to same effect.  But even if these papers were not 
genuine--and were therefore entirely thrown out of the case--still, there is 
proof enough to establish the case in the evidence "prescribed" by the law of 7th. July 
1838 to wit "Proof as to service must be had" from "the affidavits of persons of known 
respectability"--and as in the papers in this case there is this proof prescribed by law 
and the law says she "shall receive" no one has a right to say she shall not receive.

In addition to the evidence commented on by 
The Commissioner of Pensions letter of May 12. 1849, there is other evidence on file 
which has not been herein adverted to-to wit 1st the Affidavit of Keziah Williams proved 
to be a "person of known respectability" by J A. Munden Esq Justice of the Peace who 
Officially Certifies that "full faith and credit ought to be given to her statements." 
and which Justice the Honble. John S Millson proves to be "a gentlemen of high 
"standard and great integrity of character."  Mrs. Williams swears she was "well and 
"intimately acquainted with Captain Anthony Murphy from her youth, that she 
"distinctly recollects that he was a Captain in the Revolutionary War about the year 1781 
"and continued to be Captain until Peace was declared." 2d. Daniel Grinstead proved to 
be same "respectability" as above, proves he Anthony Murphy was a Captain near the time of his service, thus is a fact corroborative, & 
also proves, traditionary evidence "that the said Captain Anthony Murphy served [struck out: at least] 
two or three years at least in the said war" 3d. Margaret Rainey proved same "respectability" 
as above, proves "he was an Officer of some description in the time of the Revolutionary war"--
also states traditionary evidence that he was Captain of a Volunteer Company. 4 The Quarterly 
Session Court of Princess Anne County Decides "Anthony Murphy was Captain
Page 83

"of a Volunteer Company in the time of the Revolutionary War and that he 
"served as herein specified" two years. 5th. The Certificate of the Auditor of 
Virginia dated 19th. May 1852 proves he had served in the Continental line--
and the experience he gained by that service caused him to be appointed a 
Captain in the Militia in 1781.
[Written vertically in left margin] July /52

It is shown as follows, that the testimony of one witness is sufficient 
to entitle her in this case. Judge Story in one of his works states that the 
Courts of the United States--of the States--the State Legislatures--and 
Congress are bound by the common law unles [unless] of evidence--and says 
"The general rules of law and evidence applicable to common trials, are inter
"posed to prevent the party against the service of wanton and arbitrary power."  These rules of 
evidence show as follows.  Bacon's Abridgement Vol 2, p 597 states "Lord Chief Justice 
Holt" Decides the "single testimony of one credible witness was sufficient to prove 
any fact."  Archbald's Criminal Evidence page 157,  "In all other cases " [but 
treason and perjury] "one witness is sufficient."  Also 2d. Hawk 6,46,2; Fost. 233 
Philips on Evidence Vol 3, p 565 "one credible witness is sufficient to convict of a 
crime."  Also Woods Civil Law 317.  Greenleaf on Evidence Vol 1 p 324 "what 
"ever was evidence at common law, is still good evidence under the express constitutional 
"and statutory provisions of the American Government."  Bouvier Vol 2, p 659 "one 
"witness is sufficient to establish a fact."  The law of evidence above quoted 
shows that the uncorroborated testimony of one witness Thomas Campbell who testifies 
positively "I know this of my own knowledge, I served under him for two years and I am 
"confident he served and held his commission for the said term," is sufficient to 
establish this claim to two years service: but in addition to that it is corroborated by the 
oath of Keziah Williams and five other witnesses.
[Written vertically right margin] No 26. July 10/52

Although this claim is fully established, still, 
if liberality was needed--the Attorney General of the United States, Decides, at pages 
157,-8 "Pension Laws"--"the duty of making the examination to find support for the widow's claim, 
shows the spirit in which the law was enacted "the proof ought to be considered in the 
spirit in which this law has been passed of liberality to the applicant."  And true enough did 
the law intend there should be liberality in considering the proof, as these women 
suffered much from actual want by the absence of their husbands defending the country 
without pay as the country was then unable to pay them and thus suffering in providing for their families enabling their husbands to be absent 
defending the Country.  True enough did the law intend there should liberality in considering 
"the proof" as in a large degree by the exertions of these women in various ways the very 
existence of the Nation has been preserved while tottering from the violent assault of a 
gigantic Enemy and the foundation of its present and future resplendent properly laid & established. 
Under all these circumstances we respectfully demand that her case be allowed.  Respectfully  Isaac N Coffin
[Written vertically left margin]
Honble Alexander HH Stuart
Secretary of the Interior 
Washington, D.C.
Page 84

No 20

S. Brock 
June 1850
18
Page 85

We the undersigned Citizens of the County of Princess 
Anne do hereby certify and declare that we are well and 
intimately acquainted with Swepson Brock of said 
County and that he once acted as Sheriff of this County that 
he is a man whose character stands above reproach 
and that the charge of "Forgery" which we understand has 
been made against him at the Pension Office In Washington 
City we pronounce to be false and slanderous and contradicted 
by a long life remarkable for honesty and integrity.

We further certify that any statement he might make whether 
upon oath or otherwise would be entitled to the utmost credit.
Given under our hands and seals this day of the month 
opposite to our respective names in the year 1850.

W. H C Lovitt June 14th /50 [word Seal encircled]
B F Flanagan June 14 /50 [word Seal encircled]
Elzy Burroughs June 14th /50 [word Seal encircled]
C.B. Ackiss June 14th /50 [word Seal encircled]
John H. Dey June 14th 1850. [word Seal encircled]
S. W Williams 14 18. [word Seal encircled]
Harry Bonney June 14th 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Bishop A Williams June 14/50 [word Seal encircled]
Job Bonney June 14/50 [word Seal encircled]
Johnson B Stone June 14th /50 [word Seal encircled]
[illegible] Barnes June 14th/ 50 [word Seal encircled]
James B. Dye June 14th /50 [word Seal encircled]
Israel Fussen June 14 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Tulley B. Stone June 14 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Cary H Williamson June 14 850 [word Seal encircled]
Jas S D Munden June 14 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Tully H Whitehurst June 15 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Leven [illegible] June 15 1850 [word Seal encircled]
J. O. [illegible] June 15 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Wm. Godfrey June 17 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Page 86

Wm W Cason June 17 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Andrew Simmons [word Seal encircled]
John W. Brown June 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
Henry Brown June 17 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Henry Brock June 17: 1850 [word Seal encircled]
Jno. W Lewis " 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
John Cannon " 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
John F. Thorowgood " 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
Henry L. Covnick 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
W. W. McClenon " 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
Henry Lewis " 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
Thos. L. Etheridge " 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
Wm. Seneca " 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
John W. Simmons 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
Jno. T. Woodhouse 17/50 
Benjamin S. Whitehurst 17/50 [word Seal encircled]
Thomas Harrison 17/  1850 [word Seal encircled]
M. H. Rainey 17/1850 [word Seal encircled]
James M Bonney 17/1850 [word Seal encircled]
Andrew Bonney 17/1850 [word Seal encircled]
John B. Shipp 18/1850 [word Seal encircled]
Samuel Shipp 18/50 [word Seal encircled]
Page 87

Princess Anne County June 17th 1850

This is to certify that we the undersigned have been 
acquainted with Swepson A. Brock for many 
years, that he acted as a Sheriff of our County 
with credit to himself and satisfaction to the 
community, that he is now a member of good 
standing in the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
that his character is unimpeached, in a word,
that he is a man that stands high as a Chris
tian and a gentleman above the least shade 
of suspicion.
J A Munden J.P.
Davidton Morris J.P.

State of Virginia }
Princess Anne County, to wit; }

I, John Burroughs, Clerk of the County 
Court of Princess Anne aforesaid, do certify that Elzy Bur
roughs, Tully H. Whitehurst, John W. Simmons and John 
B. Shipp whose names are subscribed (among other 
respectable citizens) to the foregoing certificate touching 
the character of Swepson A. Brock; and also that John 
A. Munden and Davidton Morris whose names 
[Blurred seal of Court] are also subscribed to a separate certificate 
dated 17th day of June 1850, were at the time 
and still are Justices of the peace of the said 
County of Princess Anne, duly commissioned and 
qualified according to the Constitution and 
laws of this Commonwealth; and that full 
faith and credit are due to all their acts as 
such.  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto 
set my hand and affixed the seal of the said County Court at the 
Courthouse aforesaid this 4th day of July 1850, in the 75th year 
of the Commonwealth. 
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 88

No 21.

Mary Murden
widow of 
Anthony Murphy

Nov 1850
Page 89

We the undersigned Justices of the peace for Princess 
Anne County in the State of Virginia [words struck out]
[words struck out], do 
hereby certify that we are well and intimately 
acquainted with John G. Rainey, that he is a 
man of truth, and that his character is above 
reproach and that full faith and credit can 
and ought to be given to his statements.
Given under our hands and seals this 4th day 
of November 1850.
J.A. Munden [word Seal encircled]
Elzy Burroughs [word Seal encircled]
John B Shipp [word Seal encircled]
Tully H. Whitehurst [word Seal encircled]
[Blank] [word Seal encircled]
[Blank][word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia }
Princess Anne County, to wit }

I, John J. Burroughs, Clerk of the County Court of Princess 
Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that John 
A. Munden, Elzy Burroughs, John B. Shipp and Tully H. White
hurst whose names are subscribed to the above certificate, are 
and were at the time of giving the said certificate, Justices of the 
peace of this County, duly commissioned and qualified, and that 
full and credit are due to all their acts as such.  In 
Testimony whereof I have hereunto 
set my hand and affixed the seal of the 
said County Court, at the Courthouse of the 
said County, this 7th. day of November 
A.D. 1850, in the 75th year of the Com
monwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 90

The Deposition of Margarett Rainey aged seventy 
eight years which is shown by family record being 
born March 15th 1774 who first being duly sworn 
according to law deposeth and sayeth that she knew 
Capt Antoney Murphy of Princess Anne County 
well that he was an officer of some description 
in the time of the Revolutionary War and That she believes 
he was a Capt of a volunteer company as she has 
allways [always] understood and herd [heard] from persons respectable 
that he was a Capt as aforesaid and that the deponent 
has no interest in this clame [claim] dirctly [directly] or indirecly [indirectly] 
and ferther [further] she sayeth not.  Sworn to and subscribed to this 
day 22 of April 1852
Margarett her X mark Rainey

State of Virginia 
Princess Anne County to wit 

This day personally 
appered [appeared] before me a Justous [Justice] of the Peace in and 
for said County Margart Rainey who made oath 
to the truth of the above statement, and I do hereby 
cerfyfy [certify] that she is and [an] old lady well known to me 
that I believe her to be the age above stated and that 
she is an old lady of faith truth and that full faith 
and credit can and ought to be given to her 
statement as witness my hand seal this day April 22 
1852. Jona Hunter J.P. [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia, }
Princess Anne County, to wit: }

I, John J. Burroughs Clerk of the County Court of 
Princess Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify, that 
Jonathan Hunter esquire, before whom the above Deposition of Marga
ret Rainey was taken and sworn to, and who hath subscribed his name 
to the above certificate, that the said Deposition or affidavit, was sworn
Page 91

to before him, was at the time of taking the said Deposition or 
affidavit, a Justice of the peace of the said County of Princess 
Anne, and that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such 
and I also certify that the signature. "Jona. Hunter," J.P."
thereunto subscribed is genuine.  In Testimony whereof 
I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the 
seal of the said County Court of Princess Anne 
at the Courthouse this 26th day of April 
in the year one thousand eight hundred 
and fifty two, and in the 76th year of the Com
monwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.

[Written vertically right margin]
No 30.

April 1852
Page 92

Washington July 17th. 1852.

Sir:

In the case of Mary Murden widow of Capt.
Anthony Murphy (her first husband) of Virginia, a Revolu
tionary Pension case under the Act of July 7. 1838, I 
herewith transmit Statement of J Murray Esq. Commis
sioner of the Land Office of the State of Maryland 
showing that the Records in that Office have been examined 
without success for information of the service of Capt.
Anthony Murphy.  I request that this Certificate be 
filed among the papers in her case.
I am 
With the Highest Respect 
Your Obedt Servt
Isaac N Coffin

James E Heath Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington D.C.
Page 93

Washington March 1. 1850.

Sir:

I hand you the enclosed depositions of 
David Grimstead & Mrs. Keziah Williams, showing 
that Capt. Anthony Murphy served as Captain in 
the Revolutionary War from 1781 to the end of the 
War in 1783- say 2 1/2 years.

The credibility of these persons is certified & attested by 
Col. Munden a Justice of the Peace, and also by 
Genl. Jno. S. Milson a member of Congress from Norfolk 
district, who also says that he should feel no hesitation 
in believing those witnesses to be credible & whom Col. Munden 
certifies to be so.  The Hon Mr. Milson you may know 
as a member of the Committee Rev. Pension & very 
stringent & particular.
Yr

J Knox Walker
Present
Page 94

No 2
Fer 1850
Page 95

Know all men by these presents 
that I Mary Murden do hereby constitute 
nominate and appoint J Knox Walker 
my true and lawful Attorney hereby revok
ing all former Powers of Attorney to prosecute 
any claims for me and in my name 
that may be due to me from the United 
States on account of the Revolutionary services 
of Capt Antoney Murphy who was my 
husband, hereby ratifying and confirming 
whatever my said Attorney may lawfully 
do in the premises.  As Witness my hand 
and seal this eighth day of February 
1859
Test  Mary her X mark Murden [word Seal encircled]
Chas. Sogue

State of Virginia }
Norfolk City } to Wit

This day personally appeared 
before me a Notary Public for said City Mary Murden 
subscriber to the foregoing Power of Attorney and 
acknowledged the same to be her free act and 
[blocked out]
[Blurred seal of office] In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set 
my hand and affixed my seal of office
Cary Fentress
Notary Public
Page 96

The deposition of Daniel Grimstead who first being 
duly sworn according to law deposeth and saith that he 
was well and intimately acquainted with Captain An
thony, that he knew Captain Anthony Murphy at the earliest period 
of his youth, that he was a captain of a volunteer company 
when he first knew him and continued to be a captain 
for several years after the [word struck out] revolutionary war. that he firmly believes 
from what [struck out: from what] he knows and from every circumstance 
that he has heard, that the said Captain Anthony Murphy
served two or three years at least in the said war.  He has 
a distict [distinct] recollection of the said [words struck out] Anthony Murphy when 
he was a child and he was then Captain Murphy, and 
continued as such untill [until] deponant [deponent] was old enough to 
muster under him.  This deponant [deponent] has no interest neither 
directly nor indirectly, and further this deponant [deponent] saith not
Sworn and subscribed this 25th day of February 1850
[illegible] presence of } Daniel Grimstead
JA Munden JP }

State of Virginia } To wit
Princess Anne County }

I John A. Munden a justice of the 
peace in and for the said County, do hereby certify that Daniel 
Grimstead who swore to the above deposition is an old 
gentleman well known to me for many years, and that 
full faith and credit can and ought to be given to his 
statement, as witness my hand and seal this 25th day 
of February 1850.
J A. Munden, JP. [word Seal encircled]
Page 97

State of Virginia, Princess Anne County, to wit:

I, John J. Burroughs Clerk of the County Court of 
Princess Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that 
John A Munden before whom Daniel Grimstead and Keziah 
Williams made the within affidavits relative to the services of 
Capt Anthony Murphy, was at the time and still is, a Justice 
of the peace of the said County of Princess Anne duly commissioned 
and qualified according to the Constitution and laws of this Common
wealth, and that full faith and credit are due to and should be 
given to all his acts as such; and I do further certify that the 
signature, "J. A. Munden," J.P. severally subscribed to the certificates 
to said affidavits, is genuine.  In testimony whereof I have 
hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal 
of the said County Court of Princess Anne, at the 
Courthouse of the said County, this 27th day of 
February 1850, in the 74th year of the Com
monwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 98

Duplicate of previous image
Page 99

The deposition of Keziah Williams who first being 
duly sworn according to law deposeth and saith that 
she was well and intimately acquainted with Captain 
Anthony Murphy from her youth, that she distinctly recollects 
that he was a Captain in the revolutionary war, about the 
year 1781 and continued to be Captain untill [until] peace 
was declared and several years afterwards.  This 
deponant [deponent] has no interest neither directly or indirectly 
and further this deponant [deponent] saith not
Sworn to and subscribed this February 26th. day 1850 
In presence of 
J A. Munden JP.  Keziah her X mark Williams

State of Virginia }
Princess Anne County } To wit

I John A. Munden justice of the 
peace in and for the County, do hereby certify that Keziah 
Williams who swore to the above deposition is an old lady 
about 88 or 89 years old (from the best information that 
I have obtained) and full faith and credit can and 
ought to be given to her statements.  as witness my 
hand and seal this 26th day of February 1850
J A Munden J.P. [word Seal encircled]

I am personally acquainted with Mr. Daniel Grimstead of Princess Anne 
Co. Va. the signer of one of the foregoing depositions.  He is a highly respectable 
citizen of that County & and statements made by him I should receive with entire 
confidence.  I am also acquainted with Mr. J. A.  Munden whom I know to be 
a justice of the Peace in Princess Anne County.  He too is a gentleman of high 
veracity & great integrity of character & I should feel no hesitation in believing 
[word stuck out] these witnesses to be credible that he might certify to be 
Washington March 2. 1850  John S. Millson

[Written at bottom of page]
No 19.
Fe 1850
Page 100

Statement 

J Murray Esq. 
Commissioner of the Land 
Office of Maryland that the 
Records of that Office have been 
searched without success for the 
name of Capt Anthony Murphy 
--in case of Mary Murden of 
Virginia Revolutionary Pension case 
under Act of July 7. 1838.
Page 101

Land Office of Maryld
Annapolis July 8/52

Isaac N. Coffin Esq

Sir

You letter of 5th 
inst is recd.  The records in this off 
have been [illegible] carefully searched 
without success for the name of 
Capt. Anthony Murphy.
Very respectfully 
Yr obt Servt
J Murray
C.L.O.
Page 102

The deposition of S. A. Brock who first being duly 
sworn according to law deposeth and sayeth that his 
father was the executor of Jesse Morris Sr. that Jesse Morris 
was the executor or administrator of Capt. Anthony Murphy 
that this deponant [deponent] was one of the executors of his father and 
consequently a number of papers with Capt. Anthy. Murphy's
signature fell into his hands, one a letter signed by Amos 
Wicks and directed to Capt. Anthy. Murphy and some 
three of four others, which I handed to Mr. Jno. G. Rainey 
which letter and papers I do believe to be genuine, the 
letter was in a rumpled state and the deponant [deponent] ironed 
it.  all of the papers were delivered to Mr. Jno. G. Rainey for 
the benefit of Mrs. Mary Murden, that from [repeated: from] his 
knowledge of Mr. Jno. G. Rainey's character he firmly believes 
the same papers were forwarded to Washington that 
he has known the said Rainey for the last fifteen years 
and has always found him to be a man of truth and 
viracity [veracity] that the deponant [deponent] has no interest in the matter 
either directly or indirectly and further the deponant [deponent] saith 
not
S.A. Brock
Sworn & subscribed this 9th day Feb. 1850 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
[Blurred seal of office] set my hand and affixed my seal 
of office.
Cary Fentress
Notary Public
Page 103

I have known S. A Brock 
and believe him to be a gentleman 
of high character
Carey Fentress

[Written vertically left margin]No 18
Feb 1850

Norfolk February 9, 1850.  I have known Mr S. A
Brock of the County of Princess Anne from is boyhood 
and have never had reason to doubt his integrity or 
veracity.  J. R Hubard

I am well acquainted with Mr. Jas R. Hubard & Mr Cary Fentress.  They 
are both gentlemen of very high character & of unquestioned veracity & integrity & I be
live that full confidence may be reposed in their statements.  Mr Hubard is now & 
has been for many years Atty. for the Commonwealth in the County of Princess Anne & the 
City of Norfolk & a eminent member of the bar.  Mr Fentress is a Notary Public 
of the City of Norfolk as I personally know having handed his commission to him.
I know also several gentlemen of the name Brock, & of the name of Rainey 
in the County of Princess Anne & I think it likely that I may know the gentle
men above referred to, tho I am not certain of the Christian name.  If they are 
them that I know, they are as I believe, gentlemen of [illegible] character & credible
John S. Millson
Hr. of Repr. Feb 11. 1852
Page 104

Norfolk City March 15 184=51

Respected Sir

Yours of March the 12 
was duly received, and I am sorry the 
case of Mary Murden for Antony 
Murphys services has terminated as it 
has.

This case is one in which I sent 
the papers to Washington, and as there
seems to be some of them spurious from 
the [illegible] made in the case, and 
which I am entirely innocent of and 
which I had no hand in getting of 
them [illegible], it behoves [behooves] me for the sake 
of my character, to request you to exam
ing the papers and certificate therein 
filed & begg [beg] you to strictly examining 
John G Rayneys certificate, and if any
blaime [blame] is attached to me to informe [inform] 
me of the name, and also to informe [inform] 
me by what corse [course] I can have redress 
from the parties which placed those 
papers into my hands.  I begg [beg] to refer 
you as for my character to Doctr R
Young, Shimuel Godwin, & Mr
Jas L Edwards who has known me 
from my youth. Your answer will 
be duly appreciative. Very Respectfully 
F J Evans Esqr [illegible]  Thos Moore
Com of Pensions
Page 105

Norfolk June 9th 1849

J L Edwards Esqr

Dear Sir

I have most sincerely to 
thank you for your kindness in so promptly 
replying to my letter, for which I am truly grate
ful. And in reply to your kind enquiries [inquiries], I beg 
leave to state, that it was for services performed 
during the Revolution, by Anthony Murphy 
in the Maryland 9th regiment, under Col Par
kem, at the Battles of Brandywine, Monmouth 
Trenton, and taking of Stoney Point, as attested 
by many, and their respectability and credability [credibility] 
certified by Clerk of the Court, besides strong 
additional testimony obtained by my agent 
Ths Moore of this place, who after repeated assea
rances [assurances], that I would soon have the money ($15 or 
$20,000) informed me, upon his return from 
Washington, a few weeks past, that the pa
pers had been submitted to you by his 
attorney at Washington, Mr Burgess, and that 
you had rejected the claim, only wanting 
an old letter addressed as Captn Anthony 
Murphy, to establish and recover the claim.

With such a statement and thus 
circumstances, determined me to appeal to
Page 106

kindness for information of the facts 
and true condition of the claim, feeling assured 
that you will appreciate my situation, and be 
my friend on this occasion, in protecting me 
from any wrong or imposition, that may be 
[illegible] upon me.

With a grateful sense of
your kindness, suffer me to solicit your kind
consideration and attention, in a reply as 
soon as convenient.
With much respect
Your obliged & obdt Servt
Mary Murden

N.B.
Please direct to care of 
Mess Dixon & Hallett
Page 107

A. F. Leonard
Norfolk, Va
Feby 15th 1854,
_____________
Respecting the application 
of Mrs Mary Murden to
be paid for services rendered 
by her husband in the war 
of the Revolution
______________
Mary Murden
Va Sus 38
Respectfully referred to 
the Commr of Pensions 
Dept Int
Feby 17/54 [illegible] A Whiting
Chf Clk

Cole


Pnt [illegible] 
16 Feb 1854
Page 108

Hon. Robert McClelland }
Secretary of the Interior }

Dear Sir- Mrs. Mary Murden, living 
in this (Norfolk) City, who has a claim upon 
the Government, for the Revolutionary services of 
her husband, Captain Anthony Murphy, deceased, 
of the Virginia State Line, has appointed me 
her attorney, with the consent of the party who 
has heretofore been acting in her behalf (Mr. Thos. 
Moore, of this City.)

Captain Anthony Murphy was a resi
dent of the County of Princess Anne, Va. & acted 
as Sheriff of said County, before his death.  I 
have been given to understand that the recovery 
of the claim depends upon the authenticity of a 
letter on file in Washington addressed to Captain 
Murphy during the War, in reference to matters 
connected with his duties.  Mr. Swepson Brock, 
the witness who is conversant with facts connected with 
the letter, living in said (Princess Anne) County, 
& is ready to accompany me to Washington, when
ever the proper time for taking his evidence is 
determined.  The matter was, I believe, before 
Commissioner Heath, who adjourned it to get 
the evidence of Brock.

Brock's ancestor was concerned 
with the Estate of Captain Murphy in some 
way, & had possession of many of his papers, 
which came, in regular descent, into Brock's hand.

If you will be good enough to 
cause me to be informed whether it will be 
proper to have Brock in Washington, and to 
appoint a time for the hearing of his proof, you 
will greatly oblige the parties concerned.  If you 
(over)
Page 109

need evidence of his identity, &c., I should be glad 
to be advised of your requirements to that effect.

Mrs. Murden is a very old lady-perhaps 
ninety years old.  She says that she has but 
a little while to live & that she would be glad 
of the enjoyment of such comforts as her money 
could give her, during her life.  If you could 
find it convenient to promote her interests in 
this business, you would be aiding one who is 
really a proper subject for sympathy.
Very Respectfully 
Your obedient servt
A.F. Leonard

Norfolk, Va. 15 February 1854.
Page 110

92
Washington 
July 10. 1852.
Isaac N Coffin 

Rel: to the case of Mary 
Murden Act July 7. 1838 
asking a revision of the 
decision of Secretary Ewing 
in the case, &c &c. &c.

Respy referred to the 
Commr. of Pensions 
for report.  [initials illegible]
Dept of Int }
Jul 29, 1852. }

7503
Recd. Jul 19. 1852.
Page 111

Very respectfully, 
Your obt. Servt.
(signed,) J L Edwards
Commissioner.
Page 112

Hon. Thomas Ewing,
Sec'y, Interior.
Page 113

(Copy)

Pension Office.
May 12th 1849.

Sir:

I herewith enclose the papers in the case of Mary 
Murden, widow of Anthony Murphy, and make the following 
Report:

Paper No. 1, her declaration states, in general terms, that 
her husband was the Captain of a volunteer company; that 
he served, at different times, as much as two years in the 
Revolutionary War, and that she has frequently heard him 
speak of the battles he was in.  In this paper, there is 
no specification whatever as to the service, except that he 
was a Captain of Volunteers.  This assertion is wholly 
without any foundation.  There was no such corps known 
during the whole Revolutionary struggle, as a Company of 
Volunteers.  In the Regulations, the word "Volunteer" is used 
to distinguish one who entered the militia service volun
tarily from those who were drafted, or were substituted 
for others.  There is no specification as to the time when, 
nor the place or places where, the service was rendered; not a 
particle of ancient writing to show that such a person 
as the husband ever performed any military service.  We 
have in no instance whatever for service as a commissioned 
officer allowed a claim unless the commission has been 
produced, or some record or documentary evidence, tanta
mount to a commission.  If the deceased actually 
served as a Captain, there must be record proof of the fact 
somewhere.  It is the practice in Virginia, and has been 
so time immemorial, to record the recommendation of the 
County Court (or the Hustings Court, as the case may be) 
whenever any applicant is recommended for a commission
Page 114

in the militia.  If, therefore, Mr. Murphy was a militia 
officer (for a volunteer Captain he could not have been) 
evidence of the fact must be found in the office of the 
county clerk in the county where he resided.  The decla
ration is also defective in not showing to what regiment 
he belonged, and neither the name nor rank of any field 
officer of the Regiment is given.  The old and sound 
maxim, that fraud lurks under loose generalities, is one 
that should be remembered in the investigation of 
claims for alleged revolutionary service. 

The next paper (No. 2) is the affidavit of Keador Copps, 
who swears that he was intimately acquainted with Capt. 
Anthony Murphy; that he knew him in the years 1781 and 
1782; that he was always called Captain Murphy, and 
that he has every reason to believe that he served in 
the Revolutionary War.  Such proof as this amounts 
to nothing.

Paper No. 3 is the affidavit of Thomas Campbell, who 
swears that he was enrolled in the militia in 1781, under 
Capt. Nimmow, and served under Captain Anthony Murphy, 
in a volunteer company until the war was ended.  He 
further says, that he has no recollection of the field officers 
except Col. John Nekiss (or Ackiss) and one Col. Robinson. 
There is nothing specific or satisfactory. 

Paper No. 4 is the affidavit of Jonathan Frizzle, 
who swears that he was intimately acquainted with Capt. 
Anthony Murphy, who was Captain of a volunteer company 
in the time of the Revolutionary War, and that he often saw 
him parading his company.  There is nothing specific 
or satisfactory in this.
Page 115

Paper No. 5, is the deposition of James Murphy, who swears 
that Anthony Murphy was a sergeant major in the army 
during the Revolution and that he staid [stayed] away at least 
18 months; that he came home, and afterwards commanded 
a volunteer company, and that he has often heard him speak 
of his having been in the battles of Brandywine, Trenton, Mon
mouth, and at the storming of Stoney Point.  These actions 
were not all within the space of eighteen months, and the 
whole narrative has the appearance of fiction.  We must 
suppose, if these statements are true, that there was a man 
who was eighteen months a sergeant major in an unknown 
regiment, and that during that time he was in a number 
of battles, the first of which took place in December, 1776, 
and the last in July 1779; that he was a Captain of a com
pany of volunteers two years, but to what regiment he belonged, 
or where he served, no one can tell; that the witnesses never 
themselves applied for pension, although, from the statement 
of one of them he actually served two years; that the deceased 
was a commissioned officer, and served as the commander 
of a company two years, and had no papers containing the 
least evidence of his having such a command, and that 
notwithstanding the revolutionary militia pension laws, 
were passed nearly twenty years since, they have not been 
known among revolutionary soldiers in an old settled region 
of Virginia, where the laws are promulgated as generally as 
they are in the District of Columbia.  The evidence cannot 
be admitted without a violation of all the rules which have 
heretofore governed the Department in all similar cases.  The 
papers are 12 in number, including the envelope.
I have the honor to be,
Page 116

No. 5.
Deposition of 
Moses Bonney Senr.

Mar or 1849
Page 117

The Deposition of Moses Bonney Sr. who after being duly 
sworn according to law doth depose and say that he was 
well and intimately acquainted with Captain Anthony 
Murphy, deceased, who was the husband of Mary Mur
den; that when he first became acquainted with 
him, which was about the year 1795 he was Deputy 
Sheriff in Princess Anne County Va., and that he 
died about the year seventeen hundred and ninety nine [struck out: 1800] to the best of the deponents 
recollection; that he was generally known by the 
appellation of "Captain," and that he held a high 
social position in the community in which he 
lived.
In witness whereof the said deponent hath here 
unto set his hand and seal this sixth day of 
March 1849.
Moses Bonney Senr. [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia }
City of Norfolk } I Edwin P Hatcher a Notary Public for 
the State and City aforesaid do hereby certify to all 
whom it may concern that on this day personally appeared 
before me Moses Bonney Sr. whose name is subscribed 
to the foregoing deposition, and after being duly sworn 
according to law did declare and say that the statements 
therein contained are true to the best of his knowledge 
and belief.
[Blurred seal of office] In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
subscribed my name and affixed 
my seal of office this sixth day of 
March 1849.
Edwin P. Hatcher 
Notary Public
Page 118

State of Virginia }
City of Norfolk }. I John P. Leigh of the State and City 
aforesaid do hereby certify to all whom it may concern 
that Moses Bonney Sr. whose name is signed to the depo
sition written on the other side hereof is a gentleman 
worthy of full faith and credit.  In witness whereof I 
have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixth day 
of March 1849.
John P. Leigh [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia }
City of Norfolk } I Edwin P. Hatcher, Notary Public for the 
State and City aforesaid by legal authority duly commissioned, 
qualified and sworn, do hereby certify to all whom it may 
concern that John P. Leigh, whose name is subscribed to the 
above certificate is a respectable merchant of this City and 
worthy of full faith and credit.
[Blurred seal of office] In testimony whereof I have hereunto sub
scribed my name and affixed my seal 
of office this sixth day of March, one 
thousand eight hundred and forty nine.
Edwin P. Hatcher 
Notary Public

[Written vertically right margin]
No 5.
Deposition of 
Moses Bonney Senr.

Mar or 1849
Page 119

No 28

May 52
Page 120

THIS IS TO CERTIFY, That it appears from a list in this office of such Officers and Sol
diers of the Virginia Continental Line as settled their accounts and received certifi
cates for the balance of their Full Pay, according to an act of assembly, passed the November 
session 1781, directing the Auditors of Public Accounts to settle and adjust the pay and 
accounts of the said Officers and Soldiers from the 1st January 1777 to 31st December 1781, 
(see Hening's Statutes at Large, vol. 10, p. 462,) that a settlement was made on the 15th 
day of December 1785 in the name of Anthony Murphy 
as Sol of [illegible]--- and evidence of the indebtedness of the State to him for 
£19.0.10---delivered to Col. Cropper ---
but as the original settlements or copies thereof are not to be found in this office, the term of 
service embraced therein cannot be stated.
Given under my hand at the First Auditor's Office, Richmond, this 19th 
day of May 1852.
[No Seal of Office.] Ro Johnson
First Auditor
Page 121

State of Virginia } To wit:
Princess Anne }

This day personally appeared 
before me a justice in and for the State and 
County aforesaid Swepson A. Brock who being 
duly sworn according to law declares that he 
was requested by Mr. John G. Rainey to search 
over papers in his possession as executor for Noah 
Brock decd. who was executor of Major Jesse Morris 
decd. who was the executor or admrt. of Captain Anthony 
Murphy decd. for the purpose of finding any doc
ument or other evidence of the service of Capt. 
Anthony Murphy in support of the claim of the 
widow of the said Anthony Murphy decd. for 
a pension, and that in his examination of the 
said papers he found a letter written and 
signed by Captain Wicks addressed to Captain 
Anthony Murphy of Princess Anne Virginia which 
directed said Captain Murphy to [struck out: march]
[words struck out] meet him at Names Creek on a certain day 
specified in the said letter to put a stop to the 
Brittish [British] in that part of the country and the de 
ponant [deponent] further declares that he verily believes the 
said letter to be original and genuine to gether 
with other original papers some 1, 2, or 3, in 
which he was styled Captain Anthony Murphy 
& all of the said original papers he has delivered 
to Mr. John G. Rainey
S A Brock
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 18th day 
of January 1850.
JA. Munden J.P.
Page 122

I hereby certify that Swepson A. Brock who signed 
and made oath the within declaration is a gentleman well 
known to me, and full faith and credit can and 
ought to be given to his statement.  Given under 
my hand this the 18th day of January 1850.
JA. Munden J.P.

State of Virginia, Princess Anne County, to wit:

I, John J. Burroughs, Clerk of the County Court of Princess 
Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that John A. 
Munden before whom Swepson A. Brock made oath to the within certifi
cate was at the time and still is a Justice of the peace of the said County 
of Princess Anne duly commissioned and qualified according to the Consti
tution and laws of this State, and that full faith and credit are due 
to all his acts as such; and that the within signature "JA. Munden
J.P." and the above signature "JA Munden J.P." is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set 
my hand and affixed the seal of the said County 
Court, at the Courthouse of the said County, 
this 19th day of January 1850 in the 74th 
year of the Commonwealth.
J J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 123

Weeks }
to } [illegible]
Russel }
Letter of Attorney
Page 124

Know all men by these presents that I Amos Weeks 
of the County of Princis [Princess] Ann [Anne] in the State of Virginia 
for divers [diverse] considerations & causes I have made ordained con
stituted and appointed and by these presents do make ordain 
constitute and appoint my trusty friend William Russell 
in the said County & State aforesaid Gentn., my true and lawful 
attorney for me in my name and to my use to ask demand 
recover or receive in the State of Virginia likewise my 
debts in the State of North Carolina.  Given and by these 
presents, granting to my said attorney my sole and 
full power and authority to take persue [pursue] and follow
such legal courses for the recovery receiving and obtain
ing of the same as I my self might or could do
were I personally present and upon the receipt 
of the same acquaintance and other sufficient 
discharges for me and in my name make 
sign seal & deliver as also one more attorney 
or attornies [attorneys] under him to substitute or appoint 
and again at his pleasure to revoke and further 
to do perform and finish for me and in my name 
all singular thing or things which shall or may 
be necessary touching and concerning the 
primises [premises] as fully thoroughly and entirely as I 
the said Amos Weeks in my own person ought 
or could do in and about the same ratifying 
and allowing and confirming whatsoever 
my sd attorney shall lawfully do or cause 
to be done in and about the execution of 
the primises [premises] by virtue of these presents.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set 
my hand and affixed my seal the 24th day of 
August 1787.
Sealed & delivered }
in }
presents [presence] of } A Weeks [word Seal encircled]
Geo. Archer 
John Williams
Page 125

Deposition No 6.
Keoder Clapp

No 2

April 1849
Page 126

The Deposition of Keador Copps 
who first being duly sworn according to 
law doth upon his oath depose and say 
that he was will [well] and intimately acquai
nted with Captain Antoney Murphy 
that he knew him in the years of 
seventeen hundred and eighty one, and 
seventeen hundred and eighty two, and 
that he allways [always] was called Captn
Murphy and that he has every 
reason to believe that he served in 
the Revolutionary war as he has 
often herd [heard] it said that he was and 
further this deponant deponent] sayeth not
Sworn and subscribed to this 19th 
day of April 1849
Keader his X mark Copps

State of Virginia } to Wit
Princess Anne County }

This day personally appeared 
Keader Copps before me a Justice of the peace in & 
for the said County and made oath to the truth of 
[repeated: of] the above Deposition and I hereby certify that 
the said Keader Copps is an old man worthy of 
full faith & credit. Given under my hand and 
seal this the 19th of April 1849.
John B. Shipp J.P.

State of Virginia, Princess Anne County, to wit:

I, John J. Burroughs Clerk of the Coun
ty Court of Princess Anne aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do 
hereby certify, that John B. Shipp who hath given the above certificate 
was at the time and still is a Justice of the peace in and for the said County
Page 127

of Princess Anne, duly commissioned and qualified according to the Consti
tution and laws of this Commonwealth, and that full faith and credit 
are due to all his acts as such.  I do also certify that the signature, "John 
B. Shipp J.P." thereunto subscribed is genuine.  In Testimony 
whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and 
affixed the seal of the said County Court, at the 
Courthouse of the said County, this 21st day of 
April 1849, in the 73d. year of the Com
monwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.
Page 128

The deposition of Thos S Land who being duly sworn 
according to law deposeth and sayeth that he has 
delivered unto Thomas Moore of Norfolk City the following 
papers to wit

Viz one account against Peter Land in 
favor of James Warden June 12th 1804 
one conditional bond of John Knowes dated in 
the year of our Lord 1735 and said bond is 
[illegible]

one power of Attorney from Amos Weeks to 
Wm. Russeel dated the 24th day of August 
1787

three receipts one signed by Robert R Keeling 
one by Wm. Shepperd and one by Willi Wright 

The Power of Attorney to Wm. Russeel and signed 
by Amos Weeks and the three receipts to 
believed be written by Amos Weeks.
Sworn & subscribed to this 2nd day of 
September 1850
Thos. S. Land

Personally appeared before me a Justice of peace 
for the County of Princess Anne Thos. S. Land and made oath 
to the truth of the above statement  Mr. Land
oath we can rely upon and is a man of un
doubted varasity [veracity] given under my hand and 
seal this 2nd day of September 1850
Jas W Nicholas, J.P.
Page 129

The deposition of John G. Rainey who 
first being duly sworn according to law 
doth upon his oath make the following 
declaration that on this eithteenth [eighteenth] day of 
November 1850 he has in the presence of 
the commitioner [commissioner] of pensions Jas L Edward
examined three papers, one a paper per
porting [purporting] to be an apraisment [appraisement] on Antoney 
Murphy's Estate, one a small paper 
where Captn Antoney Murphy had taken 
a man by the name of Corbell into his 
company and signed Antoney Murphy 
Captn. and the other a letter wrote to 
Captn Antoney Murphy by Amos 
Weeks to meet him at a place called 
Nameys Creek for the purpose of [illegible]
the British in that place and sighned [signed]
Amos Weeks, that he was present at 
Mr. Swepston [Swepson] Brocks house when the 
three above named papers was found 
that they are the very identical papers 
that was found whilst Mr. Brock was 
a serching [searching] for Captn. Antoney Murphy 
commition [commission] and the same delivered to 
Thos Moore of Norfolk City, that 
when the papers above allooded [alluded] to was 
found they were amongst a number
Page 130

of other papers and rubblage [rubbish] such as 
strings pieces of callico [calico] and other arthcles [articles] 
in a very bad situation that Mr. Swepston [Swepson]
Brock had to pick the letter above named 
open and iron it out that he see Mr Brock 
iron it, that Mr. Brock is in no ways 
interested so far as he knows of, that Jessee 
Morris qualified on Captn Antoney Murphys 
estate, that Noah Brock quallified [qualified] on 
Jessee Morriss estate, that Swepston [Swwepson] Brock 
quallified [qualified] on his fathers Noah Brocks 
estate, and in this way Swepston [Swepson] Brock 
became in possession of the above papers
that Swepston [Swepson] Brock was a long time 
loocking [looking] to find the commition [commission] of 
Captn. Antoney Murphy and whilst 
serching [searching] for the commition [commission] he found 
the papers above allooded [alluded] to, for his 
character he beggs [begs] leave to refer to a 
certificate filed in the pension office this 
day and sighned [signed] by John A Munden, John 
Ship, Elrey Burrows and Tully H Whitehurst 
That he is not interested and further 
this deponant [deponent] sayeth not
Sworn to and subscribed  John G. Rainey
before me, this 19th day 
of November 1850.
R.A. Morsell
J.P
Page 131

No 16
Page 132

This is to sertify [certify] that Malachi Corbell 
has com [come] in my company this day 24 March 1781
Captn John Whitehead  Antony Murphey [illegible]
Page 133

Department of the Interior
May[illegible] 1849.

Sir,

I have examined the papers in the case 
of Mary Murden, widow of Anthony Murphy, an 
applicant for a pension under the Act of July 7th 
1838, and have to inform you, that I concur with 
the Commissioner of Pensions as set forth in his 
report, dated May 12t 1849, a copy of which is 
herewith enclosed.

Unless the claimant shall produce such 
proof as the report of the Commissioner shows to 
be necessary, it is utterly useless to press the claim 
any further.
I am, very respectfully 
Your Obt Servant
(Signed) T. Ewing 
Secretary.

Richard Burgess Esqr
Present.
Page 134

No 4
Deposition of 
Jonathan Frizel
____________

No 4
March 1849
Page 135

The Deposition of Jonathan Frizzle who 
first being duly sworn according to law 
doth on his oath depose and say that he was 
well and intimately acquainted with Captn
Antoney Murphy who was a Captain of 
a volenter [volunteer] companey [company] in the time of 
the Revolutionary war that he knows this 
of his own knowledge as he has often 
seen him paradeing [parading] his companey [company]. G even 
under my hand and seal this 2nd. day of March 1849
Jonathan his X mark Frizzle [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia }
Princess Anne Cty. } to Wit

This day Jonathan Frizzle person
ally appeared before a Justice of the peace in and 
for the said County and made oath to the truth 
of the above Deposition and I hereby certify that 
the said Jonathan Frizzle is an old gentleman 
worthy of truth and credit Given under my hand 
and seal this 2nd. day of March 1849
John H. Dey JP. [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia }
Princess Anne County, to wit: }

I, John J. Burroughs, Clerk of the 
County Court of Princess Anne aforesaid, do hereby certify 
that John H. Dey before whom the above oath of Jona
than Frizzle was taken, was at the time and still 
is a Justice of the peace of the said County of Princess 
Anne duly commissioned and qualified according to the 
Constitution and laws of this Commonwealth, and that 
full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such;
I do also certify that the signature, "John H. Dey J.P.,"
Page 136

thereunto subscribed is genuine.  In Testimony whereof 
I have hereunto set my hand 
and affixed the seal of the said 
County Court, at the Courthouse 
of the said County, this 7th day of 
March 1849 in the 73d. year 
of the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.


[Written vertically left margin]
No 4
Deposition of 
Jonathan Frizel
_____
No 4
March 1184
Page 137

Containing Nos. 28, 29, 30, 
31, & 32. being the testi
mony on which the last 
appeal is based.
Page 138

No 3.
Deposition of 
Thos. Campbell
___
No 3
Feb 1849
Page 139

The Deposition of Thomas Campbell who 
first being duly sworn according to law 
doth on his oath depose and say that he 
was well and intimately acquainted with 
Captn. Antoney Murphy who commanded 
a volinteer [volunteer] companey [company] in the time of the 
Revolutionary war, I know this of my own 
knowledge I served under him for two 
year, and I am confident he served 
and held his commition [commission] for the said 
term and that he never did resighn [resign] his 
commition [commmission]  In Witness whereof the 
deponant [deponent] hath set his hand and seal 
this 15th day of February 1849
Thos. his  mark Campbell [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia }
Princess Ann [Anne] County } to Wit

This day 
personally appeared Thos Campbell the 
above deponant [deponent] and made oath to the 
truth of the above deposition and I hereby 
certify that I have known the said 
Thomas Campbell for a number of years 
and that he is an old gentleman 
worthy of full faith and credit.
Given under my hand and seal this 
15 day of February 1849
JA. Munden JP [word Seal encircled]

State of Virginia } 
Princess Anne County, to wit: }

I, John J. Burroughs Clerk of the County 
Court of Princess Anne aforesaid, do hereby certify that John 
A. Munden before whom the above named Thomas 
Campbell made oath to the truth of the statements in the
Page 140

above or within deposition, was at the time and still is a 
Justice of the peace of the said County, duly commissioned and 
qualified according to the Constitution and laws of this Com
monwealth, and that full faith and credit are due to all 
his acts as such.  I do also certify that the signature 
"JA. Munden J.P.," thereunto subscribed is genuine.  In 
Testimony whereof I have hereunto 
set my hand and affixed the seal of 
the said County Court, at the Court
house of the said County, this 7th day 
of March 1849, in the 73d. year of 
the Commonwealth.
J. J. Burroughs C.C.

[Written vertically in left margin]
No 3.
Deposition of 
Thos. Campbell
____
No 3
Feb 1849