Will of William Browne 66
Captain Browne's estate was settled 21 April 1742. Final payment was made to Lemuel Cocke and Jane, his wife, to Henry Brown; to Ann Brown, and to Rebecca Brown. Daughter, Elizabeth, mentioned in will was evidently deceased.

Will of Captain William Browne, Jr., on his deathbed 653

His will was probated in Surry in 1744 as follows:

I desire my wife should act and do as if I myself was present. In case any of my children should not walk uprightly, justly, and honestly, I desire my wife to have it in her power to disinherit such child.

I desire my wife to administer without giving security.

I desire Mr. William Eaton should defer building his house for about 2 years in which time he must assist my wife in building here and when finished the people must assist him in his building.

I leave the direction of my wife and family to Captain Richard Cocke and Mr. William Eaton particularly to Captain Cocke in agreeing with the workmen about the house.

Negro boy belonging to my estate now in possession of John Bell must return when negro is 21 years; All my female children to fare alike.

I have an account of my daughter, Mary, paid Mr. William Eaton part of 300 pounds, the balance I desire to be paid him.

My new suit be given Mr. Eaton. My other clothes to be sold to best advantage or they will spoil.

You will inform Henry Browne he will rely entirely on Captain Cocke and be advised by him. You’ll inform Captain Cocke, Henry has had his father’s watch, pistols, and holster and 6 pistols cash out of the estate.

I desire Nebletts account to be settled and balance shipt him in such commodities as he writt for.

There is a bundle of papers in my desk. I believe Lidderdale’s account is enclosed, also a certificate for the money I have imported to be accounted for with M r. Printice for paying the duty on the rum.

Ely Cobbs and Ely Bages debts to be forgiven them.

Remember Wisher’s account is about five pounds; Lewis Parham’s 4 pounds; Lewis Delong, also.

My dear, I desire you to pay Captain Cocke and Mr. William Eaton and Mr. James Balfour each 10 pounds.

R. April 18, 1744. Presented by Mary Browne, widow.
(D.B. 1738-54, p. 464).

Mary’s father, Francis Clements, was first married to Elizabeth Meriwether, sister of Jane (Meriwether) Browne and therefore aunt to William. So while Francis was therefore uncle to William, there is no blood relationship between Mary and William. Some researchers show Mary as a daughter of Elizabeth, but this is not supported by the Clements evidence.

19 Jan 1746/7

Mary Browne Widow is by the Court appointed Guardian to William Browne, Ann Browne & Martha Browne Infants Children of the said Mary & Orphans of William Browne Junr. deced.