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To the Legislature of Maine, The Petition of Prince Shapleigh of Portland and faithfullly represents, That his brother Robert Shapleigh born in Danville in this state, and a free citizen thereof is now confined in the jail in Norfolk Virginia. The said Robert is a seaman and was taken from the wreck of the vessel in which he sailed & was carried into Norfolk - Having lost his protection in the wreck of the vessel, he was put into jail for want of proof of his being a free man & your Petitioner now understands that he is liable to be held for the payment of jail fees - He therefore earnestly prays, that the Legislature would interfere for his release [unknown] Samuel Fessenden

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                                      Prince X Shapleigh
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