The Geography of Slavery

Virginia Gazette and General Advertiser (Davis),
Richmond, August 6, 1799.

STOP SYPHAX! RUNAWAY, on the 11th inst. from my plantation on Banister River, in the county of Pittsylvania, SYPHAX , a likely negro man slave, about 28 years of age; he is a low well set fellow, has a very noted scar on one of his cheeks ; he is a very sensible, artful slave. I purchased him in the city of Richmond, at about 14 years old; he was raised in Black's estate, near Manchester, until I purchased him. I am informed by the said fellow Syphax, that his mother is living in Richmond, and lives to herself, as she hath hired herself from the person that she belongs to, which I suspect is to the said estate of Black, or some of that family. I have made use of him frequently as a travelling servant--has waited on me sundry times to Richmond, and it is to be supposed, has formed some connections there, which hath occasioned his elopement; he continued with me last winter a considerable time in that place, and no doubt will endeavor to get in the neighborhood or city as soon as he can. I will give a generous reward to any person delivering him to me, or securing him so that I get him. All masters of vessels are forewarned at their peril from carrying said fellow out of the state. WILLIAM CLARK. July 15th, 1799.