He has no papers to prove his freedom.

by Lisa Y. Henderson

Committed to Norfolk county jail, a Mulatto fellow, who says he is a free man, but has no papers to prove his freedom, he is a bright mulatto, 6 feet high; he says he is named JOHN MASINS, born in Washington county, N.C., a small scar over his right eye, and one on his right ear. His owner is requested to come forward, pay charges and take him away.  CHARLES RUDDER, Jailor.

Norfolk Herald, 1 July 1802.