Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 10217, for Abiel Morse, Connecticut

SERVICE
NUMBER
Morse, Abiel Lucy
No. 10217 B.L.Wt. 26114-160-55-
CONTENTS

N o 18431 Vermont
Abiel Morse
of Windsor Co. in the State of Vermont who was a Private in the company commanded by Captain Alderkim of the Regt. commanded by Col. Hous in the Conn t Troops time for 2 years
23. Feby 1857. 1857. \frac{66}{87}
Inscribed on the Roll of Vermont at the rate of 80 Dollars ————— Cents per annum to commence on the 14th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 30. day of August 1833 and sent to Ebenezer Cummings. Woodstock Vt.
Arrears to the 14th of March 1833 160.00 remi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sep. 1833 40.00
$ 200.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by D. Brown Clerk, Book E. Vol. 3 Page 77

Increase 6\frac{6}{36}
No. 6072
Vermont
1887 Aug l Pension Ag t reported paid to June 4. 1887 of Barnard, Widow 6 Vt (then aged 86 yrs)
Suey Morse
widow of Abiel Morse who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private.
Conn
St. Johnsbury agency.
Rate 96 Dollars cents per annum.
Commencing July 27 th 1868.
Deduct payments made since
Certificate dated July 30 th 1870. and sent to Pension Agent St. Johnsbury. Vt.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act Feb- and July 27 th 1868. uary 3, 1853, Page 180 Vol. 16.
S. D. Smith Gaudineer

Act. March 3/55 89. 722 Apr. 11 1855 270.433 cont. m
Abiel Morse Private
Capt. Abiel Morse Col. — Eldrick
Revolutionary Pensioner Conn. And his paper is dated Aug 30 Mil 1883 at Montpelier Vt.
Revolutionary War.
He is a pensioner under act. of June 7. 1832
At June 33 July 18431
Ad: 160 ac May 17/56
B. W. Tuttle
20
Abel Billings Woodstock Vt.
Cir O. Billings Sept 28/55
MS 2 page 96,

Declaration for Abiel Morse
8329.

STATE OF VERMONT, WINDSOR COUNTY, ss. }
On this eleventh day of August A. D. 1832 personally appeared in open Court before the Judge of the Probate Court of Hartford District now sitting, Abiel Morse a resident of the county of Windsor and State of Vermont, aged 72 years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated.
I, Abiel Morse, say I volunteered and enlisted into the service of the United States in some time in the month of May in 1776 for six months and joined the Army at Ticonderoga in Capt Elderkins Company and Lt. Frizel Lt. Fuller of the same Company and he continued in the northern Expedition till December following at which time he was Dismissed by his Captain at Ticonderoga — and he also further states he volunteered and enlisted in the first of June 1777 for six months and joined the army at Rhode Island at Providence and at different places and he thinks in Capt Bowins Company and General Spencer had the command a part of the time, and continued to serve till some time in December following at which time I was Dismissed at Tiverton on Rhode Island and he further volunteered in June 1778 to join the troops at New Haven Connecticut and continued at New Haven till he moved from there to Rhode Island he thinks he was in Capt Cutting Company and under a French Colonel he thinks commanded while on the Island and was in the battle under General Sullivan before he left the Island and then he was stationed near Howlands Ferry till he was Dismissed the last of November or December following at or near Howlands Ferry Connecticut and he further says he volunteered in 1779 to go to New London Connecticut and continued a while there and then crossed over on Groton side and joined Col. Ledges in Groton Fort, as he volunteered he was under different officers and at different place and it is out of his power to name his officers or remember their names — he continued in Groton Fort till the last of November or the first of December, he well remembers there was a Lt. Mason a part of the time till he was Dismissed at Groton Connecticut Fort and he further states he resided in Woodstock Connecticut and in 1780 he moved from Connecticut to Pomfret Vermont and on this year he volunteered on an Expedition against the Indian that burnt Royallton the Town that joined Pomfret and served one month

all these services he thinks make out twenty five months which all are volunteered services and have never received but a little on any of these services from Government
She was born in Woodstock Connecticut in 1760 - lived there till she removed to Vermont in 1780 - she now lives in Pomfret in Vermont and has lived there ever since the Revolutionary war
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State.
Sworn to and subscribed the } Error in signing before Ebenezer Cummings day and year aforesaid. } Sworn to Abiel Morse L Marsh Register
We, Isaac Dexter a Clergyman residing in Pomfret and Isaiah Tinkham Jr residing in the same place, hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with Abiel Morse - who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be 77 years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighbourhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the } day and year aforesaid, } L Marsh Register Isaac Dexter Isaiah Tinkham Jr
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that Isaac Dexter who has signed the preceding certificate, is a Clergyman, resident in Pomfret and that Isaiah Tinkham Jr who has also signed the same, is a resident in Pomfret and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, Lyndon A. Marsh, Register of the Court of Probate of the District of Hartford do hereby certify, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Abiel Morse for a Pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 11 day of August A. D. 1832
L Marsh Register

I Abiel Morse of Pomfret in Windsor County and State of Vermont of lawful age Dispose and say I volunteered and enlisted in the Town of Woodstock Connecticut on the 28 th Day of May 1775 and joined at Ticonderoga in Capt Eldridge's Company and was sent on scouting parties the most of the campaign and cannot remember his Officers because they were mostly sick when he joined the Army he was Discharged at Lake George the second Day of December 1776 or 1777. he further says he volunteered and enlisted in Woodstock Company on the first Day of June and the Army at Rhodestown as a guard and continued to serve till the first Day of December he was Discharged and he thinks General Spencer had the Command at the time he was Discharged he thinks in Capt Bowens Company at Rhodestown and he further volunteered in Woodstock Company in 1778 on the first Day of June for a guard at New Haven Conn and staid till the first of August when marched to Rhodestown and was under the Command of General Sullivan and on the 29 th of August he was in a severe battle commanded by a French Colonel, he thinks his Capt was Gulliver and was Discharged at Newlands Ferry N.H. on the 30 th Day of November 1778. he further states he volunteered on the 15 th Day of June 1779 for a guard to go to New London Conn and from there he went to Groton and continued in Groton Fort till the 30 th Day of November 1779. one Lt. Mearns was there when was in the fort and Col Doughty commanded the fort and in 1780 he removed from Conn to Vt and in Pomfret where he now lives - and in October 16 th 1780 he volunteered against a party of Indians that burnt Naugatuck on that Day and served till the 16 th Day of December one month these services according to the best of his recollection. -
Abiel Morse
State of Vermont at Pomfret in said county on the 28 th Day of June 1833 the above named Abiel Morse made oath to the truth of the above Statement by him subscribed before me - Isaiah Trinkham Jr Justice of the Peace
I here by certify that the above document is a competent witness and his understanding is good for a man of his age
Isaiah Trinkham Jr Justice of the Peace
State of Vermont Windsor County ss
Woodstock County Clerk's Office June 29 th 1833 I Benj Swan Clerk of Windsor County Court, Do hereby certify Isaiah Trinkham Jr is one of the Justices of the Peace within & for said County - and that the above are his Signatures - In Testimony whereof I here to affix the Seal of said Court and subscribe my name the day & year last above -
Benj Swan

State of Vermont } Hartford District } 3
On this 7 th day of March - in the year 1857. personally appeared before the Hon. the Probate Court of the district of Hartford aforesaid Lucy Morse a resident of Windsor in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont aged 56. years, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the 2 d Section of the act of Congress passed February 3 d 1853; That she is the Widow of Abiel Morse late of Pomfret in said District deceas'd. who was a private in the Army of the Revolutionary War, and served as set forth in his declaration, made under Act of June 7 th 1832; and drew a pension in his life time of eighty dollars per annum, and was paid at the Montpelier Vermont Agency, and also receiv'd bounty Land of 160. acres under act of March 3 d 1855
She further declares, that she was married to the said Abiel Morse at Barnard Vermont on the 31 st day of December A.D. 1846 by one Silas Tupper a Justice of the Peace, and that her name before said marriage was Lucy Miller; that her husband, the aforesaid Abiel Morse died at said Pomfret on the 23 d day of February A.D. 1857; that she was not married to him prior to the second day of January Eighteen hundred, but at the time above stated.
She further swears, that she is now a widow, and of said Abiel Morse, and that she never before this, made application for a pension. Witnesses } Orin G. Miller } Lucy Morse James J. Noble
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written.
John Porter Judge

I Lemuel Parker formerly of Pomfret in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont but now of Windsor in said County aged 68 years depose and say, that I was well acquainted with Abiel Morse in his life time late of said Pomfret deceased, and that he was a pensioner of the U.S. at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum and that he died in said Pomfret on the 23 rd day of Feby 1857, and left a widow whose name is Lucy Morse now at the present time a resident of Windsor in said County and State aforesaid. Lemuel Parker
I Orin G. Miller of Windsor in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont aged 29 th years. depose and say, that I was well acquainted with Abiel Morse late of Pomfret in said County and deceased, and that he was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum and that he died in said Pomfret on the 23 rd day of February 1857 and left a widow whose name is Lucy Morse, who is my Mother, and is the signer of the foregoing declaration, and she is now staying with me at said Windsor and I was present at the funeral of said Morse. Orin G. Miller
State of Vermont } County of Windsor } Woodstock March 7. 1857; personally appeared Lemuel Parker and Orin G. Miller the signers of the two affidavits above, to me well known to be credible witnesses and made oath to the truth of the affidavit by each subscribed. Before me Orl Billings Justice of the Peace

I Samuel Parker formerly of Pomfret in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont but now of Windsor in said County aged 68 years depose and say, that I was well acquainted with Abiel Morse in his life time late of said Pomfret deceased, and that he was a pensioner of the U.S. at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum and that he died in said Pomfret on the 23 d day of Feby 1857, and left a widow whose name is Lucy Morse now at the present time a resident of Windsor in
STATE OF VERMONT. } I, NORMAN WILLIAMS, Clerk of the County Court, of the County
WINDSOR COUNTY, ss. }
ty of Windsor, in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that
Oil Billings — was at the date of the paper writing to which this is attached, and still is, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly qualified to administer oaths and take the acknowledgement of deeds, and that his following signature is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of said Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 16 th day of March A. D. 1857.
Norman Williams, Clerk.
with Abiel Morse late of Pomfret in said County deceased, and that he was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum and that he died in said Pomfret on the 23 d day of February 1857 and left a widow whose name is Lucy Morse, who is my Mother, and is the signer of the foregoing declaration, and she is now staying with me at said Windsor and I was present at the funeral of said Morse. Orin G. Miller
State of Vermont } County of Windsor } Woodstock March 7. 1857; personally appeared Samuel Parker and Orin G. Miller the signers of the two affidavits above, to me well known to be credible witnesses and made oath to the truth of the affidavit by each subscribed. Before me Oil Billings Justice of the Peace

State of Vermont } Hartford District } Windsor County }
I Lyndon A Marsh Register of the Court of Probate of the District of Hartford, do hereby certify, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Lucy Morse Widow of Abiel Morse late of Pomfret in said district deceased for a pension; and I further certify, that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court by the two affidavits of Lemuel Parker and Orin G. Miller, attached and also the testimony of Henry Hewitt and Joel Child, that said Abiel Morse was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum, and drew his pension at the pension Agency of Montpelier Vermont, was a resident of the County of Windsor and State of Vermont, and died at said Pomfret Vermont on the 23 d day of February 1857 and left a widow whose name is Lucy Morse now a resident of Windsor in said County, the identical person person who has signed the foregoing declaration for a pension. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Woodstock in said District this seventh day of March, A. D. 1857.
L. A. Marsh, Register

No. 8329 Abiel Morse, Windsor co. Vermont.
✓ e.
2 years $80-
Ebenezer Cummings, Woodstock Vermont
we cannot... in incontestable of proof, and the reputation requires production of the best to be had.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
18 June 1833
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. These points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
A Statement, shewing the Service of
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service. Rank of the claimant. Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served. Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service. Proof by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     Service 1776 6 5 Soldier Gen Arnold and 73- { No other proof can be obtained and this according to the best of his recollection Abiel Morse   1777 6 Col Waterbury Woodstock   1778 6 Capt Alden Connecticut   1779 5 16 after General Gates.   1780 1 0 1777 Gen Spencer 1778 Col Saltonstall 1779 Col Legox 1780 Col House other Officers he cannot remember  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.
It cannot readily be admitted that the above service is insusceptible of proof, and the regulations require the production of the best to be had.

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c., Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
 1. The Regular Troops.  2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.  3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.  4. Indian Spies. 
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will, in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of } ss. County of }
On this                      day of                      personally appeared (a) before A. B. a resident (b) of                      in the county of                      and State, Territory or District of                      aged (c)                      years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d)                      , with                      and served in the                      (e) regiment of the                      line, under the following named officers:
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. (This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.)]
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
A. B.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I                      of the Court of do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of                      for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this day of                      &c.
If, on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman residing in the                      and C. D. residing in (the same)                      , who has hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with                      , who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A. B. who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the                      and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the                      and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I,                      Clerk of the Court of                      do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this                      day of                      &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his

alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following ( m ) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. { Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it? { To an Officer. { Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?  7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons—one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades:—For _____ year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____. For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months , is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
[k] The notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[l] This traditional evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[m] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[n] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

Morse & Miller.
State of Vermont, Be it remembered that at Sargents Windsor countys. } Blaisdells of Barnard county aforesaid on the 31 st day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty six Abial Morse of Pomfret county of Windsor and State of Vermont and Lucy Miller of Barnard county of Windsor and State of Vermont were duly joined in marriage by me.
Silas Tupper, Justice of the Peace.
Rec'd, the above certificate of marriage for record March 12 th 1857. Attest Salmon C. Thayer. Town Clerk.
I certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the record with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures as follows, "on the 31 st day of December 1846" Salmon C. Thayer. Town Clerk of Barnard.
I Salmon C. Thayer, above named depose and say that I hold the Office of Town Clerk of Barnard in the county of Windsor and State of Vermont and that the above is a true extract from the Records of said Town of Barnard with the exceptions above named as certified by me.
Salmon C. Thayer. Town Clerk.
State of Vermont, Barnard March 14 th 1857.
Windsor countys. } Sworn to before me
Rebecca Richburn Justice of the Peace

STATE OF VERMONT,
WINDSOR COUNTY, ss.
I, NORMAN WILLIAMS, Clerk of the County Court, of the County of Windsor, in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that
Rollin Richmond was at the date of the paper writing to which this is attached, and still is, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly qualified to administer oaths and take the acknowledgement of deeds, and that his
Ingraham signature is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of said Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 16 day of March A. D. 1857.
Norman Williams , Clerk.

59.722

STATE OF VERMONT DECLARATION OF A SOLDIER FOR ADDITIONAL BOUNTY LAND.
State of Vermont County of Windsor
} ss.
On this 29 th day of March
one thousand eight hundred and fifty five personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid.
Abiel Morse , aged 94 , years a resident of Pomfret in the State of Vermont , who being duly sworn according to law declares that he is the identical Abiel Morse who was a Private in the company commanded by Captain Eldredkin in the Revolutionary War Regiment of Connecticut commanded by Col Eldredkin in the war with Great Britain, declared by the United States on the 18th of June, 1812 for the term of Six months and continued in actual service in said war for fourteen days; and more, two years in all that he has heretofore  never made application for Bounty land, under the act of September 28, 1850 , heretofore and never has and received a land warrant, to which he has since legally disposed of, and cannot now return
He further declares that he made his declaration for a pension under the act of Congress approved June 7, 1832 and was placed on the pension list roll of the Montpelier Vermont Agency at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum, as per his pension certificate in his possession dated August 30 th 1833 and is now drawing said pension. He now would refer the Pension Department to the paper he forwarded when he sent his said declaration for the evidence of his service in the Revolutionary War.
He makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the additional bounty land, to which he may be entitled, under the act approved the 3d day of March, 1855. He also declares that he has never applied for, nor received under this, or any other act of Congress, any bounty land warrant, except the one above mentioned.
Abiel his Morse mark
We Joel Childs and Benja. Hill Jun. residents of Pomfret in the State of Vermont , upon our oaths, declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Abiel Morse in our presence and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that he is the identical person he represents himself to be.
He requests this certificate when issued forwarded to Col Billings Esq. of Woodstock Vermont.
Joel Childs Benja. Hill Jun.
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the Claimant is the person he represents himself to be, and that I have no interest in this Claim.
Col Billings
Justice Peace.

STATE OF VERMONT, WINDSOR COUNTY, ss.
I, NORMAN WILLIAMS, Clerk of the County Court, of the County of Windsor, in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that Orl Billings was, at the date of the paper writing to which this is attached, and still is, a Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly qualified to administer oaths and take the acknowledgment of deeds, and that his signature foregoing is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of said Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 7 th day of April A. D. 1855.
Norman Williams Clerk.

June 13, 1940.
Mrs. Woodson Coffee 1603 Madison Street Amarillo, Texas.
BA-J/ILL Abiel Morse W. 10217
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record, in duplicate, of Abiel Morse, file number-W. 10217.
The records which you request are furnished you herewith. Your copy, submitted with your letter, is enclosed, also.
Abiel Morse was born in the year 1760, in Woodstock, Connecticut; the day of his birth and the names of his parents are not shown.
While a resident of Woodstock, Connecticut, Abiel Morse enlisted May 28, 1776, served as private in Captain Elderkin's company on the northern expedition and was discharged December 2, 1776, at Ticonderoga; he volunteered June 1, 1777, served as private in Captain Bowen's (Bowing's) Connecticut company on General Spencer's Expedition and was discharged in December, at Tiverton; he enlisted in June 1778, served as private in Captain Cutting's Connecticut company on General Sullivan's Expedition to Rhode Island, was in the battle there August 29th and was discharged about December following; he enlisted sometime in 1779, served at various times, at New London and at Groton, as part of the time under Lieutenant Mason in Colonel Ledyard's Connecticut regiment, from which he was discharged about December 1779. He moved from Woodstock, Connecticut, in 1780 to Pomfret, Windsor County, Vermont, where he enlisted and served one month at the time the Indians attacked Royalton.
Abiel Morse was allowed pension on his application executed August 11, 1832, at which time he resided in Pomfret, Vermont. He had resided there ever since the Revolutionary War. This soldier was allowed

one hundred sixty acres of bounty land on warrant #26114 under the Act of March 3, 1855 on account of his service in the Revolutionary War. He died February 23, 1857 in Pomfret, Vermont.
Abiel Morse married December 31, 1846 in Barnard, Windsor County, Vermont, Lucy Miller, of Barnard; the date and place of her birth and the names of her parents were not given. Her maiden name was not stated nor the name of her former husband. No reference was made to a former marriage of Abiel Morse.
Lucy Morse, this soldier's widow, was allowed pension on her application executed March 4, 1857, at which time she resided in Windsor, Vermont; she was then aged fifty-two years. At that time, her son, Orin G. Miller, and Eliza Emily Miller, residents of Windsor, were present. They were not present at the soldier's funeral. Eliza stated that she knew of the marriage of said Lucy to Abiel Morse.
In 1870, Lucy Morse resided in Barnard, Vermont, her post office, East Barnard. Roseline Heath, of Barnard, Vermont, and Harriet Jones, of Woodstock, Vermont, made affidavits in behalf of said Lucy Morse at that time. Between December 1882 and June 21, 1890, soldier's widow resided in Quechee, Vermont. In November 1890, she resided in Bethel, Vermont, at the home of her son, Orin G. Miller.
In 1890, this son, Orin G. Miller, stated that he had lived in the west since about 1882, in Illinois, Nebraska and Kansas, and that he had returned to live with his mother in June 1890. Reference was made in 1890 to a sister of said Orin G. Miller, but her name was not designated. In 1890, reference was made also to a brother of Lucy Morse, the widow, his name not stated; he had died in Illinois.
For information in regard to the location of the land which was granted Abiel Morse, you should address the Commissioner, General Land Office, this city, and furnish the following data: Abiel Morse, warrant #26114, 160 acres, Act of March 3, 1855.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, name

of person paid and, possibly, the date of death of Lucy Morse, you should apply to the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, this city, and furnish the following data:
Lucy Morse, widow of Abiel Morse, Certificate #6072 Issued July 30, 1870 Rate $96 per annum Commenced July 27, 1868 Acts of February 3, 1853 and July 27, 1868 Vermont Agency.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

6072 Vermont. Mts. Lucy Morse, widow of Abiel,
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80. dollars 00. cents per annum, to commence on the 24 th  8 th February, 1853. 1857.
Certificate of Pension issued 24 th day of March 1857.
and sent to Col Billings. Woodstock Verm.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 180. Vol. 96.
270433

6. 6/36.
(3-441.) A.
Supervising Section: East 280
Record Pages:
Two cases rec'd in div. #18-431-1890 attached.
Clf No. E. 072 Widow of Claimant: Lucy Moose. Soldier: Abiel Moose. Service: Rev. War 1776. Claimant's P. O. address: Bethel Windsor. County, Vermont.
Rec'd in S. E. D. Oct 21 st 1890, from W. & N. Div.
REFERENCES.
To Spec'l Ex'm'r Garbark Nov. 4 90, 188 for spec'l ex'm'n at Bethel Windsor. County, Vermont. To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188 for further ex'm'n at _____ _____ County, _____ To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188 for further ex'm'n at _____ _____ County, _____ To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188 for further ex'm'n at _____ _____ County, _____ To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188 for further ex'm'n at _____ _____ County, _____
One Brief
Brief of "Record" on back of this Slip.

66/57
SKW
(3-441.)
Supervising Section:
Record Pages:
OR No 18,431, (Rev. War.)
Claimant:
Soldier: Abiel Moose,
Service: Pri Rev War 1776.
Widow Claimant's P. O. address: Bethel
Windsor County, VT
Rec'd in S. E. Div. Oct 31 1890, from OW Div.
REFERENCES.
To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188____,
for spec'l ex'm'n at _____
_____ County, _____
To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188____,
for further ex'm'n at _____
_____ County, _____
To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188____,
for further ex'm'n at _____
_____ County, _____
To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188____,
for further ex'm'n at _____
_____ County, _____
To Spec'l Ex'm'r _____, 188____,
for further ex'm'n at _____
_____ County, _____
Brief of "Record" on back of this Slip.
In case see M.W. Oct 31 1890. Attached

N o 18,431. Rev. War. Off N o 10,217.
Lucy Morse. (Wid of.) Abiel Morse.
Pri Rev. War. 1776. to 1780.
Case sent from Law Div n see letter dated Oct r 30 th 1890, and approved by Hon A Davidson 1 st Dep. & Acting Comr. See letter dated Nov r 1 st 1890.... Directing that this case be sent to Spl Ex r Chas Fairbanks, for him to proceed to Bethel, Vt. and thoroughly investigate the charge made by Mr Oran B Miller, in his letter dated August 27 th 1890. Nov 1 1890.

270133 } Act Consol } Mar 3/55 m } Mar 11/57 Lucy Moose wid of Abial Moose
Capt. Morse Pri. Col.
Ad 1600 Oct 12 1857
En B Dis.
New J. Mar. 1775 53-6072 husband on pension roll Special S. Cole
J Sargeant Windsor Vt.
S.A. Sargeant Apr. 3/57
26 11 - 160

Two cases
To O.M.H. Div. Files

N o 6684
Lucy Morse. Widow of Abiel. Ver.
Act 3 Feb. 1853 -

59.722

FREE
Hon. L. P. Waldo Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.

26, 11 4
J Rev Ans

Official Business
Due
1881
Am Geo l Whitney Pension Office Washington D.C.

59.702

Woodstock Vt. April 7. 1855
Sir
I enclose the declaration of Abiel Morse a Revolutionary soldier, in order to obtain his Bounty Land, under the 8 th Section of the act of March 3. 1855.
I am Respectfully your Ob t . Serv. Ocl Billings
Hon. L. P. Waldo
Comm d of Pensions Washington City

Lucy Morse, Widow of Abiel, Vernaut
adm d 3 rd Feby 1853. $80 a year from 24 Feby 1857- Her husband died 23 rd Feby 1857-
cont d col Billings Esq Woodstock Verm.

U. S. Pension Agency,
Concord
Sept-22 nd , 1892.
Mr Green B. Raum
Commissioner of Pensions.
Sir:
No. 217 I hereby report that the name of Lucy Morse widow of Abel (Odd), who was a pensioner on the rolls of this Agency, under Certificate No. 6072, and who was last paid at $12, to 4 Sept, 1892, has been dropped because of her death
Very respectfully,
Pension Agent.
Every name dropped to be thus reported at once.

POWER OF ATTORNEY.
Know all Men by these Presents, That I, William H. Howe , guardian of Lucy Morse , widow of Abial Morse , a soldier of the Rev' n, of East Barnard in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont ,
have made, constituted, and appointed, and by these presents do make, constitute, and appoint J. R. Downey , of Washington, D. C. , my true and lawful attorney, for me and in my name, place and stead, hereby annulling and revoking all former
Powers of Attorney whatever in the premises, to prosecute before any Department, or the Courts, or Committees of
Congress of the United States until final completion, for me, my Claim for An increase of the pension of my ward Lucy Morse by a special act of congress
3
3
3
and to, from time to time, furnish any further evidence necessary or that may be demanded, giving and granting to my said attorney full power and authority to receive any draft or warrant that may be issued in settlement of said claim, and to do and perform all and every act and thing whatsoever requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as I might or could do if personally present at the doing thereof, with full power of substitution and revocation, hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said attorney or his substitute, may or shall lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
My Post Office address is East Barnard, Windsor co., Vt.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 7 th day of December eighteen hundred and ninety-one .
P. D. Larnitt Kate A. Larnitt (Two witnesses who can write, sign here.)
William H. Howe (Signature of Claimant.) Guardian of Lucy Morse
L.S.

State of Vermont , County of Windsor , ss:
BE IT KNOWN, That on this seventh day of December in the year eighteen hundred and ninety-one before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for the said County and State, personally appeared Wm. I. Howe, guardian , to me well known to be the identical person who executed the foregoing Letter of Attorney, and the same having been first fully read over to him and the contents thereof duly explained, acknowledged the same to be his act and deed, and that I have no interest, present or prospective, in the claim.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office, the day and year last above written.
G. D. Seavitt
(Official Signature.)
Notary Public
(Official Character.)
[L. S.]
I,
Clerk of the County Court in and for aforesaid County
and State, do certify that _____, Esq., who has signed his name to the foregoing declaration and affidavit was at the time of so doing _____ in and for said County and State, duly commissioned and sworn; that all his official acts are entitled to full faith and credit, and that his signature thereunto is genuine.
Witness my hand and seal of office, this _____ day of _____, 18____.
[L. S.]
Clerk of the _____
NOTE.—This should be sworn to before a CLERK OF COURT, NOTARY PUBLIC or JUSTICE OF THE PEACE. If before a JUSTICE or NOTARY, then CLERK OF COUNTY COURT must add his certificate of character hereon, and not on a separate slip of paper.
Ad. long. } H. R. 1st Sess.
POWER OF ATTORNEY.
No. 6072. — Wid. btf.
CLAIM OF
William H. Howe guardian of Lucy Morse widow of Abial Morse ,
FOR
increase of pension.
Cont. No. 6072. P. O. address: East Barnard, Windsor co. Vermont.
Filed by
S. R. DOWNNEY, ATTORNEY, WASHINGTON, D. C.

This form of fee contract is prescribed by the Commissioner of Pensions and approved by the Secretary of the Interior July 8, 1884, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 4, 1884.
TO BE EXECUTED IN DUPLICATE WITHOUT ADDITIONAL COST TO CLAIMANT.
ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT.
Whereas, I, Wm. H. Howe , gdn of Suey Morse widow of Abial Morse soldier in Company _____ of the _____ Regiment of Connecticut troops  volunteer war of the Revolution , having made application for pension increase of her under the laws of the United States.
NOW THIS AGREEMENT WITNESSETH: That for and in consideration of services done and to be done in the premises, I hereby agree to allow my agent S. R. Downey , of Washington, D. C. , the fee of _____ ten DOLLARS, which shall include all amounts to be paid for any services in the furtherance of said claim; and said fee shall not be demanded by, or payable, to my said agent, in whole or in part, except in case of the granting of my pension by the Commissioner of Pensions ; and then the same shall be paid to him in accordance with the provisions of sections 4768 and 4769 of the Revised Statutes, U. S.
J. L. Leavitt Cora E. Leavitt [Two Witness Signature.]
William H. Howe [Signature of Claimant.] East Barnard, Vt. [Post-office Address.]
State of Vermont , County of Windham , ss:
Be it known that on this, the 7th day of December A. D. 188 1 , personally appeared William H. Howe the above named, who, after having read over to him in the hearing and presence of the two attesting witnesses the contents of the foregoing articles of agreement, voluntarily signed and acknowledged the same to be his free act and deed. [L. S.]
J. L. Leavitt [Official Signature.] Notary Public
And now, to wit, this 8th day of December , A. D. 188 1 , I accept the provisions contained in the foregoing articles of agreement, and will to the best of my ability, endeavor faithfully to represent the interest of the claimant in the premises. I hereby certify that I have received from the claimant above-named the sum of no dollars and no more, no dollars being for fee, and the sum of no dollars being for postage and other expenses. And that these agreements have been executed in duplicate without additional cost to the claimant, as required by law, in excess of the fee above-named, the said agent making no charge therefor.
Witness my hand the year and day above written.
S. R. Downey [Signature of Agent.]
State of Washington , County of D. C. , ss:
Personally came S. R. Downey , whom I know to be the person he represents himself to be, and who, having signed the above acceptance of agreement, acknowledged the same to be free act and deed.
Witness my hand and seal this 8 day of December , 188 1 .
Rev. L. Clark [Official Signature.] Notary Public
[L. S.]
APPROVED FOR _____ of _____ DOLLARS and payable to the recognized attorney.
Commissioner of Pensions.

NOTICE TO CLAIMANT.
THIS CONTRACT IS PERMISSIBLE UNDER THE LAW, BUT NOT COMPULSORY.
READ THE FOLLOWING COPY OF STATUTE:
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. * * * * *
SEC. 3. That section 4785 of the Revised Statutes is hereby re-enacted and amended so as to read as follows:
"SEC. 4785. No agent or attorney or other person shall demand or receive any other compensation for his services in prosecuting a claim for pension or bounty-land than such as the Commissioner of Pensions shall direct to be paid to him, not exceeding $25, nor shall such agent, attorney or other person demand or receive such compensation, in whole or in part, until such pension or bounty-land claim shall be allowed; Provided , That in all claims allowed since June 20, 1878, where it shall appear to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Pensions that the fee of $10, or any part thereof, has not been paid, he shall cause the same to be deducted from the pension, and the pension agent to pay the same to the recognized attorney."
SEC. 4. That Section 4786 of the Revised Statutes is hereby amended so as to read as follows:
"SEC. 4786. The agent or attorney of record in the prosecution of the case may cause to be filed with the Commissioner of Pensions, duplicate articles of agreement without additional cost to claimant, setting forth the fee agreed upon by the parties, which agreement shall be executed in the presence of and certified by some officer competent to administer oaths. In all cases where application is made for pension or bounty land, and no agreement is filed with the Commissioner, as herein provided, the fee shall be $10 and no more. And such articles of agreement as may hereafter be filed with the Commissioner of Pensions are not authorized, nor will they be recognized, except in claims for original pensions, claims for increase of pension on account of a new disability, in claims for restoration where a pensioner's name has been or may hereafter be dropped from the pension-rolls on testimony taken by special examiner, showing that disability or cause of death, on account of which the pension was allowed, did not originate in the line of duty, and in case of dependent relatives whose names have been or may hereafter be dropped from the rolls on like testimony, upon the ground of non-dependence, and in such other cases of difficulty and trouble as the Commissioner of Pensions may see fit to recognize them: Provided , That no greater fee than $10 shall be demanded, received or allowed in any claim for pension or bounty-land granted by special act of Congress, nor in any claim for increase of pension on account of the increase of disability for which the pension has been allowed: And further provided , That no fee shall be demanded received or allowed in any claim for arrears of pension or arrears of increase of pension allowed by any Act of Congress passed subsequent to the date of the allowance of the original claims in which such arrears of pension or of increase of pension may be allowed."
"And if in the adjudication of any claim for pension in which such articles of agreement have been or may hereafter be filed it shall appear that claimant had, prior to the execution thereof, paid to the attorney any sum for his services in such claim, and the amount so paid is not stipulated therein, then every such claim shall be adjudicated in the same manner as though no articles of agreement had been filed, deducting from the fee of $10 allowed by law such sum as claimant shall show that he has paid to his said attorney."
"Any agent or attorney or other person instrumental in prosecuting any claim for pension or bounty-land who shall directly or indirectly contract for, demand or receive, or retain any greater compensation for his services or instrumentality in prosecuting a claim for pension or bounty-land than is herein provided, or for payment thereof at any other time or in any other manner than is herein provided, or who shall wrongfully withhold from a pensioner or claimant, the whole or any part of the pension or claim allowed and due such pensioner or claimant, or the land warrant issued to any such claimant, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall for every such offense be fined not exceeding $500 or imprisoned at hard labor not exceeding two years, or both in the discretion of the court."
APPROVED JULY 4, 1884.
O. W. and N. 102/2
FEE AGREEMENT.
= No. 6072. =
CLAIM OF
Lucy Morse widow of Abial Morse, Rev. Revolutionary Hts. soldier, Conn. troops.
FOR PENSION.
William H. Howe, Guardian, Ezra Barnard, Windsor Co., Vermont.
FILED BY
S. R. DOWNNEY ATTORNEY. WASHINGTON, D. C.
Printed and for sale by J. H. WHEELER, 529 7th St. Washington, D. C.

John S. E. Division.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D. C., November 1st 1890.
Mr. Chas. Fairbanks,
Special Examiner,
Concord, N. H.
Sir:
Enclosed find the papers in the case of Lucy Morse, a pensioner by certificate No. 6,077, as the widow of Abiel Morse, a soldier in the Revolutionary war, for compliance with instructions contained in the accompanying letter from the Law Division of this Bureau, dated the 30th ultimo.
The investigation is to be made outside of your district, at and near Bethel, Vt., and the papers are sent you because you are the nearest Special Examiner to that place and therefore, the most available to conduct the investigation.
Very respectfully,
Andrew Davidson
Acting Commissioner. B

[Faint, mirrored handwritten text, likely bleed-through from the reverse side of the page. The text is mostly illegible but appears to be a formal letter.]

STATE OF VERMONT, WINDSOR COUNTY, SS.
I, GEORGE B. FRENCH, Clerk of the County Court of the County of Windsor, in the State of Vermont, (a court of record having a seal as hereunto attached,) do hereby certify that
Calvin French was, at the date of the instrument to which this is attached, and still is a Judge of Windsor County Court
in and for said County, duly qualified to administer oaths and take the acknowledgment of deeds, and that his signature on said instrument is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of said Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this Eighteenth day of July , A. D. 1870
Geo. B. French Clerk.
Also personally appeared Lucy Morse , residing at Woodstock Vt., persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit and who, being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Lucy Morse , the claimant, sign her name (or make mark) to the foregoing instrument.

State of Vermont, } ss: County of Windsor, }
On this first day of July, A.D. 1870, personally appeared before me Calvin French Judge of the County Court, which is a Court of record within & for the County & State aforesaid, Lucy Morse, who, being duly sworn according to law, makes the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions of Section thirteen of the act of Congress relating to pensions, approved July 27, 1868: that the person on account of whose death pension was granted, was Abiel Morse, who was a private in the revolutionary war; that the pension Certificate numbered on the back 6072, & bearing date the 24 th day of March 1857, is herewith returned; that she has not remarried since the death of the above mentioned Abiel Morse, but still remains his widow; that Claimant appoints A. N. Denney of South Royalton, Vt. her attorney to prosecute the above claim, & that her residence is in the town of Barnard County of Windsor, State of Vermont, & that her post office address is "East Barnard, Vt."
Witnessed by,
6. Roselin Heath
7. Harriet Jones
Lucy Morse
Also personally appeared Roselin Heath residing at Barnard Vt. & Harriet Jones residing at Woodstock Vt. persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit and who, being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Lucy Morse, the Claimant, sign her name (or make her mark) to the foregoing declaration; and they further swear that they have every reason to believe, from the appearance of the applicant and their acquaintance with her, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be, and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim.
Roselin Heath
Harriet Jones
Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 8 th day of July, 1870; and I hereby certify that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. & that the contents of the above declaration & affidavit were fully made known & explained to the applicant & witnesses before swearing.
Calvin French Judge of Windsor County Court,

[Faint, mirrored handwritten text, likely bleed-through from the reverse side of the page.]

South Royalton Vt. July 12, 1870. Hon. H. Van Aernam Commr. Sir, I send herewith old certificate & the application of Lucy Morse for increase of Revolutionary pension. Respectfully yours, A. N. Benney.

on Pillow

Ms. B. 1. 6 v. 2, p. 27 Brief in the Case of Lucy Morse Widow of Abiel Morse , Pvt. Rev. War. Col. Barnard Windsor County and State of Vermont Inc. Act 2 d Sec. Feb. 3. 1853. 13 th Ser. Act July 27. 1868.
CLAIM FOR NEW PENSION CERTIFICATE,
PROOF EXHIBITED,
A pensioned on the roll of Vermont at the rate of $80. pr. Ann. She returns her pension certificate and applies for increased as provided in Sec. 13. Act July 27. 1868.
Identity and Continued Widowhood Shown.
Admitted July 21. 1870 to a pension at $96.00 pr. Ann. to Commence July 27. 1868 - deducting Payrs. since.
Name and residence of Agent.
A. W. Kenney South Royalton Windsor Co. Vermont.
W. C. Frisk Examining Clerk.
Rev. $10.
RE.

Brief in the case of Lucy, widow of Abiel Morse, of Vermont, Act 3 February 1853.
Her husband was pensioned under the Act of June 7, 1832, at $80 a year and died 23 d February 1857.
Record evidence of marriage—
Cohabitation, general reputation of marriage, her identity as the late pensioner's widow, his death, and her present widowhood proved by health listing.
Send to
Col Billings Esq Woodstock, Vermont
Thornton D. Ditt Examiner

(6072)

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, WIDOW'S PENSION.
I certify that, in conformity with the 2d section of the act of February 3, 1853,
Lucy Morse, widow of Abiel Morse, who was a private, _____ in the revolutionary war, is inscribed on the Pension List, at the rate of Eighty dollars and _____ cents per annum, commencing on the 24 th  of of February, 1857 1853 , and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.
Given at the Department of the Interior, thirtysixth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and fifty seven.
E. Morrison Secretary of the Interior.
Examined and countersigned.
W. C. Cushing Commissioner of Pensions.

Woodstock Vt March 16. 1857
Sir
I forward the application of Lucy Morse Widow of Abiel Morse late of Pomfret in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont deceased, in order to obtain her a pension under the act of February 3 d 1853
I am Respectfully your Ob st Ser. Orrin Billings
Hon. Geo. C. Whiting Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

Windsor March 7 1857
Dear Job Whiting
I send the Application of Mrs Lucy Morse of this town, who came to reside here since her husband Abial Morse died — Morse died — who died or was found dead in said Pomfret on the morning of 23 Feb. 1857 — I am not certain but the Guardian of said Morse applied for Bounty Land — An effort is being made for the Widow to take the Pension of Mr Abial Morse. If so, she is entitled — and some or most of her proofs for the Pension show her right to Bounty Land — Othniel G. Miller and Eliza Emily Miller attest to the death — also to their being husband and wife — The certificate of marriage will, if it can be had, be with the application of Mrs Morse for her Pension —
With Respect J. Sargent

State of Vermont Windsor County SS.
On this fourth day of March A.D. One Thousand eight hundred and fifty seven person- ally appeared before me, a justice of the Peace within and for the County and State aforesaid; Lucy Morse aged fifty six years, a resident of Windsor in the State of Vermont who being duly sworn according to law, declare that she is the Widow of Abial Morse deceased, who was a Soldier in the Revolutionary War and placed on the United States Pension Roll to which only can she refer for his enlistment service and honorable discharge.
She further states that she was married to the said Abial Morse in Barnard in said State on the 31 st day of December A.D. 1846. and that her name before said Marriage was Lucy Miller - that her said husband died at Pomfret in said State on the twenty third day of February A.D. 1857 - and that she is now a Widow.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she may be entitled under "Act approved March 3. 1855." and she further declares that she has not received or applied for bounty land under this or any other Act of Congress.
S. Lucy Morse
We Orrin Miller and Eliza Emily Miller residents of Windsor in the state of Vermont, upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Lucy Morse Widow of Abial Morse in our presence; and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be and is still a Widow - We were at the funeral of Abial Morse and the said Eliza knew of the Marriage of the said Abial and said Lucy Morse, the day they were married and the said Orrin

G. Miller knew them as husband and wife in 1848-
Arrin Smillie Eliza Smillie
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and is still a widow, and that I have no interest in this claim.
Thomas F. Hammond, Notary Public.
STATE OF VERMONT,
WINDSOR COUNTY, ss.
I, NORMAN WILLIAMS, Clerk of the County Court, of the County of Windsor, in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that Thomas F. Hammond was, at the date of the certificate of acknowledgment of the deed to which this is attached, a Notary Public in and for said County, duly qualified to administer oaths and take the acknowledgment of deeds, and that his signature to said certificate is genuine, and that said deed is executed and acknowledged in conformity to the laws of the State of Vermont.
In Testimony Whereof, I hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of said Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 5 th day of March A. D. 1857. Norman Williams Clerk.

Rev WIDOW, &c.
1938-June 24- Hirt. to Mrs. Woodson Coffee-322. 1940-June 13- Hirt. to Mrs. Woodson Coffee in Duplicate-322.
File No. 10217
Lucy Morse
Wid
Abiel Morse
Print Rev. War
Act: July 30/63 July 27/68.
Index:—Vol. 16 , Page 61
[Arrangement of 1870.]

June 23, 1938.
Mrs. Woodson Coffee 1603 Madison Street Amarillo, Texas.
BA-J/ILL Abiel Morse W. 10217
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Abiel Morse who lived to the age of ninety-seven years; you state further that he married a lady by the name of Swift who lived in Vermont and was one of seven to receive pension in 1891 in recognition of his service.
The data which follow are found in pension claim, W. 10217, based upon service of Abiel Morse in the Revolutionary War. His widow was a pensioner of Vermont in 1891.
Abiel Morse was born in the year 1760, in Woodstock, Connecticut; the day of his birth and the names of his parents are not shown.
While a resident of Woodstock, Connecticut, he enlisted May 28, 1776, served as private in Captain Elderkin's Connecticut company on the northern expedition and was discharged December 2, 1776, at Ticonderoga; he volunteered June 1, 1777, served as private in Captain Bowen's (Bowing's) Connecticut company on General Spencer's Expedition, and was discharged in December at Tiverton; he enlisted in June 1778, served as a private in Captain Cutting's Connecticut company on General Sullivan's Expedition to Rhode Island, was in the battle there August 29th and was discharged about December following; he enlisted sometime in 1779, served at various times, at New London and at Groton, a part of the time under Lieutenant Mason in Colonel Ledyard's Connecticut troops, from which he was discharged about December 1779. He moved from Woodstock, Connecticut, in 1780 to Pomfret, Windsor, County, Vermont, where he enlisted and served one month at the time the Indians attacked Royalton.
Abiel Morse was allowed pension on his application executed August 11, 1832 at which time he resided in Pomfret, Vermont. He had resided there ever since the Revolutionary War. This soldier was allowed 160 acres of bounty land on warrant #26114 under the Act of

March 3, 1855 on account of his service in the Revolutionary War.
Abiel Morse died February 23, 1857 in Pomfret, Vermont.
The soldier married December 31, 1846 in Barnard, Windsor County, Vermont, Lucy Miller, of Barnard; the date and place of her birth and the names of her parents are not shown. Her maiden name was not stated, nor the name of her former husband. No reference was made to any other marriage of Abiel Morse.
Lucy Morse, the soldier's widow, was allowed pension on her application executed March 4, 1857, at which time she resided in Windsor, Vermont; she was aged then fifty-two years. At that time, her son, Orin G. Miller, and Eliza Emily Miller were present; they were both residents of Windsor. Eliza stated that she knew of the marriage of said Lucy to Abiel Morse; both Orin G. Miller and Eliza Emily Miller were at the soldier's funeral.
In 1870, Lucy Morse resided in Barnard, Vermont, her post office East Barnard. Roseline Heath, of Barnard, Vermont, and Harriet Jones of Woodstock, Vermont, made affidavit in behalf of said Lucy Morse at that time. Between December 1882 and June 21, 1890, the widow resided at Quechee, Vermont. In November 1890, she resided in Bethel, Vermont, at the home of her son, Orin G. Miller.
In 1890, this son, Orin G. Miller, stated that he had lived in the west since about 1882, in Illinois, Nebraska and Kansas, and that he had returned to live with his mother about June 1890. Reference was made in 1890 to a sister of said Orin G. Miller, but her name was not designated. Reference was made in 1890 to a brother of Lucy Morse, the widow, his name not stated; he had died in Illinois.
If you desire information in regard to the location of the land which was granted Abiel Morse, you should address the Commissioner, General Land Office, this city, and furnish the following: warrant #26114, 160 acres, Act of March 3, 1855.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, name of person paid, and, possibly, the date of death of Lucy Morse, you should apply to the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office,

Records Division, this city, and cite the following:
Lucy Morse, widow of Abiel Morse, Certificate #6072 Issued July 30, 1870 Rate $96 per annum Commenced July 27, 1868 Acts of February 3, 1853 and July 27, 1868 Vermont Agency.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

1603 Madison Street - Amarillo, Texas
December 27, 1939
Veterans Administration, Washington, D. D.
Reference: BA-J/111 Abiel Morse W. 10217
Gentlemen:
Attached is copy of a letter written to me by your department under date of June 23, 1938.
I am in need of two copies of this letter and if it is possible for your department to send me two copies of it, I shall appreciate it. What are your charges for such a service.
Thanking you, I am
Yours very truly,
Velda B. Coffee.
Mrs. Woodson Coffee

1603 Madison Street - Amarillo, Texas
June 2, 1938
Veteran's Administration, Washington, D. C. Pension Department
Gentlemen:
In a book published in 1891 I read this statement, " Abial Morse served in the Revolutionary War. He married a lady by the name of Swift who lived in Vermont and drew a pension on account of his service, being one of only seven who draws pension in recognition of aid rendered to this country when the War for Independence was in progress." Abial Morse lived to be ninety-seven years of age."
Do you have a record of Abial Morse's Revolutionary service or any proof that he served his country.
I shall appreciate what information you can give me.
Yours very truly,
Olda Bangs Coffee
Mrs. Woodson Coffee

Eastern
(3-450.)
4/62
S. E. D.
ctf No. 6072
Name: Lucy Morse
P. O. address: Bethel
County: Windsor State: VT
Recommendation Return to Files
Chas Fairbanks
Special Examiner.
REFERENCE.
Dec. 8, 1890.
Respectfully referred to Mr. Dailey, Chf Law Div. for consideration.
J. G. Butterfield
Ret. Chief S. E. Division.
RECOMMENDATION.
Dec 12, 1890.
Pensioner under Guardian. Bond good & sufficient, and Guardian faithfully discharging his trust. Send on to Old War Div.
Hobbs
Serial Exch.
Approved: W. S. Pierson Sec Chief of Review.
ACTION.
Dec 12, 1890
Send to Old War files
W. S. Pierson
Chief Law Division.
W. S. Pierson
Examination:
o 6-208
18758 b-20 m

INDEX TO SPECIAL EXAMINER'S REPORT.
Claim of Lucy Morse  old war No. 6,072
   PAGES. NAMES OF WITNESSES, ETC. Exhibits. Depositions. REPUTATION.     1 to Index .....   2 " 11 Notice to claimant  Letters A   12 to 13 Summary .....   14 to 15 Claimant's statement ..... B Good   16 " 17 Darius Merrill C "   18 " 23 Orin G. Miller D Fair   24 W. H. Howe letter & receipt E   25 " 30 W. H. Howe F Good   31 Probate Judge letter to Howe G   32 Form for release of guardianship H   33 " 43 Guardianship Papers I  

Bethel Vt August 27 1850 1849
OW. Wid. 6072. F. 10. 217
Comissioner of pensions Dere Sir The Builders name was Abial Morse hee Drew pension up to his Deth hee was in the ware of Eightene 12 Lucy Morse Drew his wife Drew his pension to eight years ago when the p. Mr W H How asked her for her Certificate said hee wanted to see it hee would give it back to her the next day but hee kept it and she has not seen it since nor one of her Teachers nor one sent of her pension in eight years She is my Mother and i ward Eloise (A) - Pene J. R.

you would look in to this for her she is ninety one years old and can read writing without glasses she reads all the news papers and is all right but hard of hearing that is all that is the matter with her while I was west this Mr N. H. Howe reported her insain and got himself appointed guardian over her and he refuses to give me the number of her Certificate I have took her home with me and intend to take care of her the rest of her life she has forgotten the number of her Certificate the reigment and so that a Obial Horse belongs to I could not find but you will find it in with their

No 335 737
General Brown will site you a few lines in regard to myself this is the No of my pension certificate I wish that you would send me before a Board of Doctor for it is in favor of my pension for only 50 per month it would not allow to start it was claimed last to fall for my Deafness in my right ear Comrad I want you to help me the No of my pension is 61 Bethel at your truly
orin G Miller
i hope to hear from you soon
4

L.H.M.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS, WASHINGTON
Law Division.
August 19th, 1890.
MR. ORRAN G. MILLER, BETHEL, VT.
Sir:-
In reply to your letter of the 14th ulto., returned herewith, I have to state, that before any information can be furnished in relation to the claim of Lucy Morse, the certificate number of her claim should be given, the name of the soldier on whose account she was pensioned, and the designation of his company and regiment.
Please return this letter and its enclosure with your reply.
Very respectfully,
John B. Rau
Commissioner.
Exh. A Page 3-
107

United States Pension Agency Thos. P. Cheney W. H. D. Cochrane, Agent.
Concord, N. H., Aug 26 1890.
Mr Orran G. Miller Pethel Vt
Dear Sir:— I do not find the name of Lucy Morse or Abial Morse on the roll of this Agency.
To learn what you call for write to the Hon. Commission of Pensions Washington D. C.
Respectfully, Thos. P. Cheney Pension Agt

B. Law Division C.A.M.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D. C., October 30, 1890.
The Acting Chief
of S.E.Division,
Sir:
I hand you herewith, the papers in the case Ctf.6,072, (Old War,) of Lucy Morse, widow of Abiel Morse, who served as a Private from Connecticut, in the War of the Revolution, together with a letter dated Aug.27, 1890, from Orran G. Miller, of Bethel, Vt., in which it is charged that some eight years ago, one W. H. Howe obtained the certificate from the pensioner, on a promise that he would return it to her.
Mr.Miller also charged, in his letter, that said certificate has never been returned to the pensioner, and that she has received no pension whatever, from that time until the present. Mr.Miller states further that Howe reported the pensioner as insane, and had himself appointed as her guardian. The Pension Agent at Concord, N.H., (who has charge of the payment of pensioners in the State of Vermont, where pensioner resides,) states (See his letter herewith, dated Aug.26, 1890,) that neither the name of Lucy Morse nor that of Abiel Morse are on the rolls of his agency.
It is therefore probable that no guardian has ever been appointed for this pensioner, but that Howe has retained the certificate, 7

and that the pensioner has been dropped from the rolls, by reason of failure to claim. An inspection of the papers in this case shows that original certificate was issued to the pensioner on the 24th day of March, 1857, to commence Feb'y. 24, 1857, and that said certificate was sent to one O. Billings, of Woodstock, Vermont, one of the claimant's attorneys in the case. Afterwards, on July 30, 1870, a new certificate, increasing the pension to $8.00 per month, commencing July 27, 1868, was issued, and forwarded to the Pension Agent at St. Johnsbury, Vt. and this is probably the certificate spoken of by Mr. Miller. The papers also show that one A. W. Kenney, of South Royalton, Vt., was also, at one time, an attorney for the claimant, in the prosecution of her claim.
The record also shows that the claimant's application for pension was executed before John Porter, Judge of the Probate Court of Hartford Dist., State of Vermont, on the 7th of March, 1857, and that Orran G. Miller and James J. Noble were the witnesses to her application.
Among the papers also appears an affidavit made by the claimant in Windsor Co., Vt., on the 1st. of July, 1870, before Calvin French, Judge of the Windsor Co. Court, which said affidavit was attested by Roseline Heath and Harriet Jones.
It is therefore requested that a Special Examiner of this Bureau be instructed to proceed to Bethel, Vt., where Orran G. Miller and the pensioner now reside, and thoroughly investigate the charg- 8

es made by Mr.Miller. Both the pensioner and Miller should be seen, and their depositions taken, as to all the facts in the case; that is, when she began to draw pension, when payments ceased; at what time and under what circumstances her certificate was delivered to Howe, and why said certificate has not been returned to her if they know.
The Examiner should also call upon Mr.Howe, and take his deposition as to when and under what circumstances he obtained the pension certificate of the pensioner, -if he did obtain it, -and why he has not returned it to her. If Mr.Howe was ever appointed the guardian of the pensioner, he should be asked to state in what county he was so appointed, and why it is that the pensioner's name was allowed to be dropped from the rolls. The records of the proper court in which such guardianship was obtained, -if it was obtained, -should also be examined, and a certified copy procured of the petition, appointment, letters of guardianship, etc., as well as any other material papers which might throw light upon this question, and the same forwarded to this Bureau by the Examiner investigating this case.
If this man Howe did receive the pensioner's certificate, and has not returned it, and he is not the guardian of the pensioner, a demand should be made by the Examiner upon him for the said certificate; and if it is obtained, it should be forwarded to this Bureau, with the Examiner's report. 9

The attorney Billings, of Woodstock, Vt., to whom the pension certificate was sent, in March, 1857, should also, if necessary, be seen, and his deposition taken as to what he may know about this case, and what he did with the certificate, upon its receipt.
In fact, the Examiner should use every effort to get at all the facts in this case, so that, upon the receipt of his report by this Bureau, the pensioner's name may be restored to the rolls, and pension paid to her from the date upon which she ceased to receive pension, if such a course shall be found to be right and proper in the premises.
On the Increase jacket, appears an endorsement made in August, 1887, to the effect that the Pension Agent had reported payments made in this case, up to June 4, 1887; but no such report is found among the papers in the case. It might be well, therefore, for the Examiner, if in the neighborhood of Concord, to examine the rolls of that Agency, which has charge of the old St. Johnsbury rolls, for the purpose of ascertaining at what date pension in this case did, in fact, cease, to any one.
Inasmuch as the pensioner is now over 90 years of age, and, as it would seem, had been long deprived of the pension due her, it is requested that action be taken in this matter, at once, and that the Examiner be instructed to investigate and report as to the facts in this case, and with as little delay as practicable. 12

This letter should also appear as an exhibit in the Examiner's report.
Very respectfully,
Acting Chief Law Division.

Concord N.H.
Nov 27-1890
Hon Green B. Rann Comm. of Pensions Washington D.C.
Sir.
I have the honor to submit my report of Special Examination in case A.G. no 6,072 of Lucy Morse, "Widow" of Abial Morse, late Private Rev. War. - Post-office address Bethel Windsor Co. Vt. -
The cause which led to the examination in this case, originated from charges contained in letter addressed to the Hon Commissioner. dated Bethel Vt Aug 27 th 1890: signed "Orin G. Miller". In which, said Miller set forth, as a matter of fact - that one W. H. Howe of Barnard Vt was holding the pensioners Certificate, without authority - and that for eight years the pensioner had not received her pension. -
The testimony hereto attached shows, that the said W. H. Howe was legally appointed Guardian of the pensioner Dec 6 th 1882, and the copies of Guardianship papers (Exhibit "I")

Corroborate the testimony - The plan to remove the guardian was concocted by Alvin G. Miller, that he might get possession of the pensioner's property, and receive her pension. -
Mr W. H. Howe (guardian) is a man of good repute, and no one questions his honesty, in the town where he has resided from boyhood; The claimant, or pensioner, has had a comfortable support while under his care, and is now very comfortably situated, with her sons, Alvin G. Miller; and while under the care of her present guardian, will continue to receive the attention due to one of her advanced age. -
All of the papers in the case are herewith returned and I recommend that care be returned to the files.
Very respectfully,
Chas. Fairbanks
April 4 th 1897,

DEPOSITION B
Case of Lucy Morse , No. 6072
On this 12 day of Nov , 1890, at Bethel , County of Mindanao State of VT , before me, Chas. Fairbanks , a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared Lucy Morse , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to her during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says: I am 91 years old -
Abial Morse was my husband - I did draw pension & had a certificate - Somebody made out that I was not smart enough to handle my pension money, and got "Harley Howe" appointed guardian over me; About eight years ago - and then "called" me off down to Bennington Vt. to Chester Hogg, where I staid till my son "Orin" & Miller came after me, I have never had one cent of money from Mr Howe, He said if I wanted any money I must go to Chester Hogg for it - I never had a cent of money from Chester Hogg - Yes, Mr Hogg gave me two dresses - The dress I have got on, I have had 15 years.
Q How much did your guardian pay Chester Hogg for supporting you;
A I don't know nothing about it; I worked a good deal, spun & served, and took care of chickens & geese;
Q Why did you not stay with Mr Hogg,
A Because I didn't want to stay,
Q Did you have plenty to eat & wear?
A I had what I wanted, I did well -

Want much. -
Q Was you ever sick when at sail Flagg's home.
A I was lame, three or four weeks with shooting, could not feel myself. Oh I can't hear nothing you say. I am satisfied with my home now. I want to live with children - and will while I live; -
I can't hear any body speak but my son. My head feels queer. & I'm tired. - Scared choose
On account of the serious impairment mental faculties, and extreme deafness. I did not administer the oaths here. The above statement was taken simply to show what she said, in answer to questions, which were "shouted" at the mouth of an ear trumpet by her son - Oliver G. Miller, as dictated by me. -
Ebenezer Fairbanks
Examiner.
Deponent.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 12 day of Mar, 1890, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.
Ebenezer Fairbanks
Special Examiner.

DEPOSITION 6
Case of Lucy Morse (Old War) No. 6,072
On this 10 day of Nov , 1890, at Concord , County of Merrimack State of N.H. , before me, Chas. Fairbanks , a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared Darius Merrill , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to him during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says: am 63 years of age, P.O. address as above. Occupation, Chief Clerk of the Concord N.H. Pension Agency. I find by referring to the records & rolls now in said Agency, the following, with reference to the payment of pension to Lucy Morse, widow of Abiel Morse Private Revolutionary War, under Certificate No 6,072. Said pension commenced Feb 24-1857, @ $80, per annum. "2 d Sec. of Act of Feb 3 d 1855-3", & from July 27 th 1868 at the rate of $96, per annum, and from March 19 th 1884, at the rate of $12, per month. -
The records show that - the payments in this case have been paid to Wm H. Horne of East Burrough, Windsor Vt. - Commencing Sept 4 th 1882. The first payment of pension to said Wm H. Horne, as Guardian of Lucy Morse, was made Dec 16 1882, when he drew a check for $24. And the records show that - payments have been made to said Wm H. Horne from said date (quarterly) to Sept 4 th 1890, when he drew a check for $36. The records also show that

said Howe was appointed Guardian - Dec 6 th 1882. This Office has always been notified of appointment of Guardian by the filing of Certificate of Court - where the appointment was made. And said Certificate is attached to "roucher" on which the guardian is paid, and the same forwarded to the 3 d Auditor's Office, Washington D.C.
The duplicate receipt of the rouchers on which said Howe was paid for quarters ending, March 4 th 1890 June 4 th 1890, Sept - 4 th 1890.
show, that they were witnessed in each instance by "Le D. Leavitt."
With reference to letter of Aug 26 th 1890. Signed by Thos P. Cheney Pensions Act. - stating that the name of "Lucy Morse" or "Abiel Morse" does not appear on the roll of the Concord Agency, what have you to say?
A That: Orson G. Miller who called for information as to payment of said pensions, asked for such names as 1812 pensions, and the first of the pensions being on the Revolutionary rolls, we did not find it; said letter was written by myself, by authority of Mr Thos P. Cheney for "M". I have understood from quarters & my answers have been entirely re-enacted.
Darius Merrill Deponent.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 10 day of Nov, 1890, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.
Chas. Fairbanks Special Examiner.

DEPOSITION S
Case of Lucy Morse (Old C W. No. 6072)
On this 12 day of Nov , 1890, at Bethel , County of Windser State of NH , before me, Chas. Fairbanks , a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared Orin G. Miller , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to him during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says: am 63 years of age P.O. address as above. Deposition  Sumner .
Q What is your relationship to Lucy Morse . Widow of Abiel Morse . Rel  Cl- in this case A She is my own mother. Q When is the furthest room. A She resides with me. Q When have you resided since 1882? A In the west, in Ill. Nebraska & Kansas. Came back here in May 1890.- Q When was your mother during the period from 1882 until May 1890? A In Leavenworth St. until June 21 st 1890 when I took her home to my house, and she has been with me ever since. Q How did she support herself while in Leavenworth St. A Her Guardian, W m H. Howe of Ebenezer Bannell St. hired Mr Leicester Hogg of said Leavenworth to keep my mother. Q Did Mr Howe pay said Hogg for your mother's maintenance? A Now I don't know about that.-

De Do you know how much Hume agreed to pay said Fagg for your mother's support.
A I don't; I heard Mr Hume state that he had a written agreement with said Fagg to keep my mother and support her during her life & give her a decent burial.
De How much was said Fagg to receive for the support & burial?
A All of my mother's pension money as I understand. Yes sir, I heard Hume & Fagg say so.
De When & under what circumstances did you hear them make that statement?
A About June 2 nd 1890 at Mandelstock Vt. in the office of Probate's Office.
De How did you & Mr Fagg & Hume happen to be at the office of Probate's Office at that time?
A I had a notice served on said Hume to appear before the Judge of Probate for the purpose of taking the guardianship of my mother, from him.
De On what grounds?
A Well, my mother was finding fault, she said Mr Hume had her pension Certificate and would not return it to her. That said Hume had kept her off eight years, & that she had not seen a cent of her pension money since Hume was
Orin G Miller
Deponent.
I sworn to and subscribed before me this 12 th day of Nov, 1890, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.
Chas. Lambeths
Special Examiner.

DEPOSITION D
Case of Lucy Muse , No. 6,072
On this _____ day of _____, 18____, at _____ County of _____ State of _____, before me, _____, a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared Orin  G. Miller , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to him during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says: Appointed Guardian.
Therefor I caused a notice to be served on him.
Q What was the action of the court in the matter?
A Well, - Hovey was not removed, I was authorized by the judge of probate to take my mother home, & I did so. I brought her home June 21 st 1890.
Q Before you had the notice served on Hovey, - had you seen your mother?
A Yes sir, I saw her last winter in Jan., - Jan 1890. - I was then on a visit from the West.
Q At that time, did your mother make any complaint - that she was not properly fed & clothed?
A She complained that she was not properly treated, and asked me to come back to VT. that she might live with me & have a home.
Q Did you see any thing, while with your mother in Jan. 1890, that led you to believe that she was not properly taken care of?
A No, she was confined to a little bedroom without - the privilege of lamp or fire

She was at liberty to go over the house - level - that was her sleeping room. The room was about 8x10, no carpet on the floor. -
Q How much do you get per week for supporting your mother?
A I have no contract - with Mr Horne I have received $22.00 from said Horne.
Q When did you receive said amount?
A Sept 11 th or about that time Mr Horne wrote me a letter and sent a check for 22$ I will file his letter which I now hand you.
Q Why did you not sign the receipt?
A Because I did not think the amount sufficient to pay for her support. I knew that Mr Horne paid said Fogg, all of her pension for her support, and I considered I was entitled to the same. -
Q Why did you not have a contract with Horne as to the amount which you should receive?
A He said he made an contract with said Fogg, which was not legal, and would not make a contract. The Probate Judge decided that he had no right to contract with Fogg for my mother's support during life. No sir I did not try to have Horne
Oscar G Miller
Deponent.
I sworn to and subscribed before me this 12 day of Nov, 1890 and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.
Chas F. Leinhardt Special Examiner.

DEPOSITION E
Case of Lucy Tracy , No. 6072
On this 21 day of July , 18 88 , at St. Johnsbury , County of Caledonia , State of Vermont , before me, John G. Miller , a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared Orin G. Miller , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to her during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says: make a contract - I had no understanding with him as to what I should receive for mother's support.
De Have you ever received from mother's pension certificate?
A I did, about 12 years ago. Have not seen it since have had it.
De Did you know that since home was legally appointed guardian?
A I understood that he was.
De Do you know on what grounds she was judged incompetent?
A On account of insanity, but I had never seen any thing wrong about her, except that she is very deaf.
De Have you received more than the $22 referred to above, (from said home)?
A No sir, nothing - I have got her personal effects, which I brought from East Barnard Vt. -
De Was Mr Home willing that you should have the oversight and care of your mother?
A No sir, after I got the order from the judge of probate, - I have not got the order - We sir, I handed it to Mr Home, when I went to him

for permission to go after my mother. He gave me a letter to Mr Fogg of Larcher St. and I gave said Fogg the letter & bought my mother home.
Q Was your mother ever indebted to said home in any way.
A No sir, in no way whatever. - She was a neighbor. She owned a little house worth about $75. at the time home was appointed guardian. I understand that he (home) sold the house sometime this summer for 15.00. - No sir I do not know what became of the money which he has received for said home.
I am interested in this case, only so far as my mother's interests are concerned.
I have understood from guardian's & my mother's home have been recently recorded. Orion G. Miller
Deponent.
I sworn to and subscribed before me this 12 day of Nov, 1890, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.
Chas. Fairbanks
Special Examiner.

East Barnard, Vt.
Sept-11 th 190.
Mr. O. G. Miller,
Bethel Vt
Enclosed please find Check for ($22.00). Twenty two dollars, for Mrs. Narses Board for 11 weeks, ending Sept-6 th Please sign receipt below and return it by mail, and oblige also state how your Mother is getting along.
Yours Truly,
H. H. Howe
over
Exhibit (E)

Received of William H. Horne Guardian for Mrs Lucy Morse twentytwo dollars for eleven weeks board of said Ward ending Sept 6th 1890. East Barnard Sept 11th 90.

DEPOSITION Exhibit C
Case of Lucy Morse (Old War No. 4072 )
On this _____ day of _____, 18____, at _____, County of _____, State of _____, before me, _____, a Special Examiner of the Pension Office personally appeared _____ being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says.
Area with horizontal lines for deposition text.

DEPOSITION 7
Case of Lucy Morse , No. 6,072
On this 13 day of Nov , 1890, at East Bernard , County of Windsor State of Vt , before me, Chas Leimbanks , a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared William H. Durne , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to him during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says: am 48 years of age Do. address as above. Occupation Carpenter & farmer . I have known Lucy Morse about 20 years. I was appointed as guardian of said Lucy Morse Dec 6 th 1882, by the Probate Court of the District of Hartford Windsor Co Vt. - and am now the guardian of said ward. Also in I hold the pension Certificate of the said Lucy Morse , who is presumed as the widow of Abiel Morse who served as a Pvt in the Revolutionary War. Also in, I have drawn the pension for said ward. Each quarter, since I was appointed Guardian. I now show you the Certificate on which I have drawn said pension, said Cif is numbered 6,072 , I drew the pension for said ward last - in Sept 1890, for the quarter ending Sept 4 th 1890 - $36.00 - When I was appointed guardian the said ward drew $24. Each quarter, and I made arrangements with Charles D. Gogg of Bennington Vt to

support her, and I paid said Fogg all of her pension, which I received from the Government; and have got receipts from said Fogg for the amount which I paid her - when the law was passed giving Williams 12 per month, March 19/86 I made a contract with said Fogg to take care & maintain the said Ward, during her life, and give her a decent burial. This agreement continued, and I paid said Fogg $24. per month, until June 21 st 1890.
On May 22 nd 1890 a petition was filed by Brin d Miller of Bethel Vt in here we removed as guardian of said Ward, and a hearing was held before the Judge of Probate at Woodstock Vt. - The charge made by said Miller was, - that - the pensioner did not need a guardian, but the Judge decided - after hearing the testimony, and seeing the pensioner, that - she was incompetent, and ordered my guardianship to continue. This decision was given on the 2 nd day of June 1890. And on the following day I received a letter from the Judge of Probate, W.D. Sawyer. I will file said letter
William H. Howe Jdn Deponent.
I sworn to and subscribed before me this _____ day of _____, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.

DEPOSITION F
Case of Lucy Mearse (Old Gen.) No. 6072
On this _____ day of _____, 18____, at _____, County of _____, State of _____ before me, _____ a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared William H. Hume , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to him during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says: With this deposition be
shown that the judge had confidence in me as guardian of said Ward. The said Orin G. Miller then came to me and I gave him permission to take his mother to his home. When said Miller came to me he brought the letter from the Judge of Probate referred to above. And I gave said Miller a letter to go to Christin D. Fogg and get the pension, which he did. He ( Miller ) took the pension to his home June 21 st 1890 & has kept her until the present time.
I informed said Miller when he took the pension that I would pay him $2.00 per week for her board and care. No. he did not make any objection to the price.
I have paid said Orin G. Miller $22.00 Sept-11 th 1890 and sent him a blank receipt and requested him to sign the same & return to me, which he never did. I have spoken to said Miller once about signing & returning said receipt and he then told me that he had forgotten to

sign it - but - would do so soon. No sir. said Miller has never mentioned the fact - that he was dissatisfied with the amount - which I paid him - No sir. I have not given the pensioner any money at any time as I did not consider that she needed it -
Q Did you make any provision with said Miller with reference to furnishing the pensioner with clothing.
A Yes I told her that I would settle with her once in six months for clothing and tobacco which she might need.
Q How much money have you in your pension which belongs to the pensioner?
A I have $1,597 of her pension money - About Aug 1890. The said Ward had left her - as her to a brother who lived in Streeter Ill. $3-75; which is now an interest in Savings Bank in Mansfield Vt. i.e. $45-00, (four hundred & fifty dollars.) is in Bank and the balance on note.
Q Who are your beneficiaries & what - is the sum of your bond.
A Edmund Miller of Burmest Vt. The Amt of Bond is $500. No sir The Judge ruined me justice as to Amt of Bond.
William H. Howe Esq. Deponent.
I swear to and subscribed before me this _____ day of _____, 18_____, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.

DEPOSITION F
Case of Lucy Moore (Old Mrs)  CDP No. 6,072
On this _____ day of _____, 18____, at _____, County of _____, State of _____, before me, _____, a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared William H Moore , who, being by me first duly sworn to answer truly all interrogatories propounded to him during this Special Examination of aforesaid pension claim, deposes and says:
I now show you my letter of Guardianship dated Dec 6/82 which I have held until the present time. Yes sir I am willing to pay the said Orin G. Miller , more than $2.00 per week for board of the pensioner if he demands it:
On the 9 th of May 1890. The said Miller brought me a paper to sign, to the effect that said Ward was capable of taking care of herself and no longer needed a guardian. I will file said paper with this deposition. I refused to sign it:-
I considered that said Millers object, in getting me removed was, to get possession of his mothers money. And I did not consider him competent or qualified -
I did not hear from said Miller from the time I was appointed Guardian, until after she came in possession of the money left her by the death of her brother. As stated. He did not even write to know how his mother was getting along, but since she

came into possession of said money the said Miller has been very attentive to his mother. He is probably more interested to get possession of his mother's money from the fact that he (Miller) has a sister, who would be entitled to one half of the pensioners estate at her decease. It is generally believed that if said Miller should get control of his mother's (the pensioner's) affairs, that the sister mentioned above would not succeed in getting her just- dues. I make the above statement to show why the said Miller made an effort to have me removed. I have no interest in this case more than to see justice done. My Ward has always had a comfortable support, and was contented, until the said Miller came back here & made her discontented. She is old and very childish. Therefore I thought it best to let her go to her sons home, not because I considered that she was not comfortable at Fogg's, but to settle her mind. -
I have understood from gentlemen & my enemies have been cruelly recorded.
William H. Howe Gen Deponent.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 13 day of Nov 1890, and I certify that the contents were fully made known to deponent before signing.
Chas. Fairbanks Special Examiner.

DEPOSITION Ebenezer (B.) Edw
Case of Lucy Morse (Old Man) No. 6072
Woodstock Vt. June 3, 1890.
W. H. Stone Esq.
Dear Sir.
The petition for the removal of the guardianship of Lucy Morse has been denied - Now Mr. Miller desires to have his mother go to make him a visit. I see no moral virtue in this - As to whether you should give Mr. Miller the care of his mother depends upon the following considerations.   1 st Does Mrs. Morse a reasonable wish to live with her son?  2 d Will she be well taken care of? If Mrs. Morse desires to live with her son and even be well taken care of by him. Of course, my opinion is that she should be gratified, but these matters are to be determined by you 
4 kpt. "B" Page 31

Special Examiner.
this day of _____ fully made known to deponent before signing.
deponent.
DEPOSE
True
according to your discretion Truly yours J.O. Searns
P.S. If you have any doubts as to what you ought to do you are at liberty to consult your attorney
Truly yours J.O. Searns

DEPOSITION Exhibit "H"
Case of Lucy Morse (Old War) , exh No. 6072
On this _____ day of _____, 18____, at _____, County of _____, State of _____, before me, _____, a Special Examiner of the Pension Office, personally appeared _____, who, being by me first duly sworn to answer
This is the document - which Orin G. Miller carried to the Guardian (W.H. Howe) for his signature. (see Howe's deposition - Examiner -)
To the Hon, the Probate Court for the District of Hartford. The undersigned, William H Howe, of Barnard in said District, Guardian of Lucy Morse, now of Hartford, would respectfully represent that his said ward, said Lucy Morse, is capable of taking care of herself and no longer needs a Guardian. Barnard, May 9 th 1890
Exhibit-

Woodstock Vt. Nov 26. 1890
John Brinsmade Esq.
Dear Sir.
I send herewith copies of bond. Letters of guardianship. Petition and of record in the matter of the appointment of a guardian for Lucy Morse as requested in your letter to me of Nov 17 th 1890.
I send herewith my bill for copies amounting to $3.00 which please remit.
Very respectfully
Thos. D. Grover

State of Vermont
District of Rutland
At a Probate Court held at Woodstock within and for said District on the 18th day of February A.D. 1887.
Present Hon. John Porter Judge
The petition of John Miller executor of the Poor of Barnard in said District is received and recorded as follows
To the Probate Court of the District of Rutland, State of Vermont.
The undersigned, John Miller executor of the Poor of Barnard in said District represents to said Court, that Mary Morse, who resides in said Barnard, through and by reason of her advanced age and great infirmities has become incapable of taking care of herself in a proper manner and managing her affairs. and is insane within the meaning of the Statute, and needs a Guardian; and therefore the undersigned prays said Court to make investigation thereof and appoint a Guardian for the said Mary Morse as the law in such

authorizes and directs,
November 18, 1882
John Dineen
Deputy of Poor.
Whereas the said Justices of the Peace at the first Wednesday (Sixth Day) of December next as a time and the Probate Office in Woodstock aforesaid as a place when and where said application shall be heard and considered by said Justices, and orders that said applicant shall give due notice of said application and of the time and place of hearing to the said Mary Morse by the service of a citation which shall be issued by and made returnable to said Justices according to the terms of the Statute. That the said Mary Morse may appear before said Justices at the time and place aforesaid and show cause if any there be why she should not be found considered and adjudged by said Justices to be insane and incapable of taking care of herself and why she should not be placed under guardianship as an insane person accordingly.
A true record
Henry J. Daine Registrar

State of Vermont } At a Probate Court District of Bennington } held at Woodstock within and for said District on the first Wednesday {(eighth day) of December A.D. 1882.
Present Hon. John Porter Judge
Jenny Morse, insane  Barnard
An application made on the eight- 22nd day of December last past. of John Miller. Surseer of Barnard in said District. Representing that the said Jenny Morse is an insane person - and incapable of taking care of herself - and praying that a guardian may be appointed for the said Jenny Morse - is fixed for a hearing this day. The petition heretofore issued giving notice to the said Jenny Morse of said application and of the time and place of hearing and considering the same, is returned duly served and said return is as follows.
State of Vermont } At Barnard in said District of Bennington } District this 20th day of December A.D. 1882. I have made service of this citation or process

on the within named Lucy Horse by delivering to her a true and attested copy thereof with her own return hereon thereon endorsed
  For bond 10 m  1.00     copy 75  .75      1.75  Attest Paul D. Dean      Constable  
The said Lucy Horse does not appear here in Court. Testimony is offered by the said John Miller the applicant in support of said application, and the case is considered and fully investigated by the Court.
Whereupon said Court finds and adjudge and determines that the said Lucy Horse is insane and incapable of taking care of herself and orders that a guardian be appointed for the said Lucy Horse as an insane person accordingly.
A true record
Henry D. Dean Registrar
State of Vermont District of Bennington
A Probate Court held at Woodstock within and for said District on the

first Wednesday (sixth day) of December A.D. 1887
Present Hon John Porter Judge Lucy Morse in name. Barnard.
William H. Keene of Barnard the said District is appointed Guardian of the said Lucy Morse and gives a bond as the law requires with Edward Miller of said Barnard as surety in the sum of five hundred dollars. The bond directs that said Guardian return an inventory of all the estate of his said ward within sixty days from the said estate shall come to his possession or knowledge. A true Record
Henry S. Dene Register

State of Vermont,
DISTRICT OF HARTFORD, ss.
I, Thomas O. Grewer Register Judge
of the Probate Court, within and for said District, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the
original Petition of John Allen, in the matter of the appointment of a guardian over Lucy Allen in her person and of the record of the proceedings of said Court in relation thereto
and of the whole thereof as the same now remains on file and of record in said Court.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed
the seal of said Court, at Woodstock, in said District,
this 16 th day of November A. D. 1890
Thomas O Grewer Register Judge
STATE OF VERMONT, } District of Hartford, ss. }
I, _____ Judge
of the Probate Court, within and for said District, do hereby certify that
_____ whose genuine signature is appended to the foregoing certificate, is and was at the date thereof the Register of said Court, duly qualified, and that said certificate is in due form of law.
In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand this
of _____ A. D. 18 _____
_____ Judge.

[GUARDIAN.]
State of Vermont, } District of Hartford, ss. }
The Probate Court of the District of Hartford,
To William H. Keene
of Barnard in said District
GREETING.
You are hereby appointed Guardian of
Jane Morse, an insane person
now residing in Barnard aforesaid
You will have the care and custody of the person, as well as the possession and management of the estate of your said ward, and hold and improve the same according to law. You will make an inventory of all the estate of your said ward, both real and personal, and return the same to this Court within sixty days from the date of these presents, or within sixty days from the time said estate shall afterwards come to your possession or knowledge. You will compound, settle, receive, sue for and recover, in the name and right of your said ward, all debts and demands to her accruing or accrued; and have, maintain and defend, all and every action necessary for the recovery or protection of her person and estate; you will pay all her debts contracted before your guardianship, out of her estate, pursuant to such orders from the Probate Court as you shall from time to time receive in that behalf. You will apply the annual incomes and profits of her estate, so far as is necessary, for her maintenance, support and education, according to her quality and degree, and the balance thereof, if any, you will put at interest for the benefit of your said ward, upon such security as this Court shall from time to time direct, or otherwise hold yourself accountable for the same with interest. You will once in every year, and oftener if thereunto required, render to this Court an account of the proceeds and expenditures of your said ward. And when the said ward shall be legally discharged from guardianship, or if she die, you will pay and deliver to her or her legal representatives, so much of the said estate as shall then be found upon your account, after the same has been allowed by said Court.
Given under the seal of the Probate Court, at Woodstock, in said District, this sixth day of December , A. D. 1847.
Henry S. Dassa Register
40

41 State of Vermont District of Rutland }
I Thomas O. Seaver Judge of the Probate Court within and for said District hereby certify that the within is a true copy of Letters of Guardianship issued to William H. Seaver as guardian of Mary Morse an insane person Witness my hand and the seal of said Court at Woodstock in said District this 20th day of November A.D. 1890
Thomas O. Seaver
Judge
Letters of Guardianship.

Know all Men by these Presents, That we, William H. Keene of Barnard in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont and Edward Miller of Barnard in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont
are held and stand firmly bound and obliged unto the Probate Court of the District of Wentworth , in State of Vermont, in the sum of Five Hundred Dollars, to the payment of which, well and truly to be made to the Probate Court of the District of Wentworth we jointly and severally bind ourselves, and our and each of our heirs, executors and administrators, for the whole, and in the whole, firmly to these presents.
Witness our hands and seals, at Woodstock in said District, this 15th day of December A. D. one thousand eight hundred and eighty two
THE CONDITION OF THIS OBLIGATION IS SUCH, That if the said William H. Keene
who is appointed Guardian of Lucy Morse, an insane person, now residing in Barnard in said District
shall well and truly perform and discharge the trust and office of Guardian of the said
Lucy Morse
and make a true inventory of all the real estate and all goods, chattels, rights and credits of his ward, that come to his possession or knowledge, and return the same to the Register of the Probate Court within sixty days from the time of his appointment, or in such time as said Court shall direct, or within sixty days from the time such estate shall afterwards come into his possession or knowledge; and manage and dispose of all such estate and effects according to law, and for the best interest of the ward, and faithfully discharge his trust in relation thereto; and render an account of the property of the ward, in his hands, including the proceeds of all real estate sold by him and of the management and disposition of the same, within one year after his appointment, if his ward has real or personal estate, or within one year after such estate shall come to his possession or knowledge, and at such other times as the Probate Court shall direct; and, at the expiration of his trust, shall render and settle his account, as above mentioned, and pay over and deliver all the estate and effects remaining in his hands, or due from him, on such settlement, to the persons legally entitled to the same, then this obligation to be void and of no effect; otherwise to remain in full force and effect.
William H. Keene
Edward Miller

(43) State of Vermont District of Washington } Thomas O. Grewes Judge of the Probate Court within and for said District do hereby certify that the within and foregoing is a true copy of the given to said Court by William H. Grewes guardian of Lucy Morse of Barnard in said District an insane person, as appears by the files of said Court. Witness my hand and the seal of said Court at Montpelier in said District this 25th day of November A.D. 1890 Thomas O. Grewes Judge
Lucy Morse MINOR. GUARDIAN BOND.