This is a very poignant will – a young soldier going off to war, sure of his return, but leaving things in the hand of his father until that time.  Unfortunately Nathan Lewis must have been killed shortly after entering the Revolutionary War, since his will was written in March of 1777 and was probated in October of that year.  His father is unknown until the court listed him, Stephen Lewis, as one of the executors.

Loudoun County, Virginia, Will Book B

Will of Nathan Lewis

In the name of God, Amen.  I, Nathan Lewis, of the County of Loudoun and Colony of Virginia, weaver, being of perfect mind and memory, and calling to mind and duly considering the uncertainty of human life, do make this my last Will and Testament in manner following.  First, I give and bequeath to my father, my plantation to dispose of as he sees fit until my return, and my brother, Solomon Lewis, I give all my right and title of one hundred acres of land, a soldier’s right, if it please God to give us the victory, and further at my death, my will is that my place should be sold and the money equally divided among my brothers and sisters, and further I ordain my father and Israel Thompson executors and I declare this and no other to be my last will and testament, utterly revoking and disanuling all other.  Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this seventh day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy seven.           Nathan Lewis

In the presence of us John Davis, Josiah White, Samuel Rich

At a Court held for Loudoun County, October the 12, 1777

This will was proved by the oath of Josiah White and affirmation of Samuel Rich, witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded, and on the motion of Stephen Lewis, one of the executors therein named who made oath according to law, certificate is granted him for obtaining a probate thereof in due form, he giving security.  Whereupon the said Stephen Lewis with Robert White and Thomas White his securities entered into and acknowledged their bond in the penalty of one thousand pounds conditioned as the law directs.