Early Governors' Papers

John Sevier Governor and commander in Cheif [sic] in and over the State of Tennessee

To all to whom these presents shall come Greeting

It is made known to me that at the last Superior Court Held for the district of Mero at ^the town of Nashville, a Certain William Sutherland was Indicted on a charge of feloniously [stealing?], taking, and carrying Away, two negro Slaves, the property of Captain Donohoo, for which felony he was found Guilty, And sentence of Death ^have passed on him, which sentence Was to be put into execution on the 20th ^day of december (instant)

Now know ye, that a number of respectable Citizens of this State, have represented to me, that the said William Sutherland have heretofore sustained, a fair & respectable Character, and pray that mercy may be extended towards him, and being ever desireous to extend mercy and clemency to all those who may be fit objects to obtain ^& receive the same, I do hereby Grant a pardon to & reprieve ^to the aforesaid William Sutherland and consign to oblivion the Crime & felony aforesaid -

Given under my hand & seal in Knoxville the 12th day of December Anno Dom, 1797.

By the Governor.