CHAPTER I.
Early Life in Virginia--Example of Pious Parents.
I was born a slave, in Madison county, Virginia, March, 1804.

My father, John Davis, and his family, belonged to Robert Patten, Esq., a wealthy merchant, residing in Fredericksburg--who was also owner, in connection with Mr.John Thom, of a large merchant mill, located on "Crooked Run," a stream running between Madison and Culpepper counties.

My father was the head miller in that large establishment, in which responsible station he was much respected.
There I was born, and remained until I was twelve years old.

Mr.Patten was always considered one of the best of masters, allowing his servants many privileges; but my father enjoyed more than many others.

Both he and my mother were pious members of a Baptist church, and from their godly example, I formed a determination, before I had reached my twelfth year, that if I was spared to become a man, I would try to be as good as my parents.