In the Name of God, Amen. Whereas I, John Melton of Nash County and State of North Carolina, being weak in body though of sound and perfect memory, thanks be to God, do make this writing as and for my last will and testament.

Imprimis: I give and bequeath unto my son Cooper Melton, the plantation and tract of land I purchased of Briant O’Neal containing by estimation one hundred and fifty acres, to hold to him, his heirs and assigns forever.

Item: I give and bequeath unto my son Thomas Melton, the plantation whereof I now live with all the land I purchased of Arthur O’Neal containing by estimation one hundred and forty six acres to hold to him, his heirs and assigns forever.

Item: I give and bequeath unto my wife Elizabeth Melton her choice of feather bed and furniture.

Item: I give and bequeath unto my daughter Mary Hart, five shillings; as for the remainder of my estate my will and desire is that it be equally divided between my wife aforesaid and children, David Melton, Mathew Melton, Joseph Melton, Ann Melton, Fereby Melton, Cooper Melton, Martha Melton and Thomas Melton, and I do hereby constitute and appoint my sons David Melton and Joseph Melton my whole and sole executors of this my last will and testament in whitness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 29^th day of April 1797.