Extract from the first codicil to the will of Samuel Pepys (catalogue ref: PROB 1/9)
Transcript
I Will That my Executor doe give unto Each of my Servants that shall be remaining with me at the time of my decease, a whole Yeares Wages, over and above what shall be Severally due to them; Together with Mourning Suitable to their respective degrees.
Simplified Transcript
I wish that my executor gives each of my servants who is working for me when I die, a year’s wages in addition to what is already owing to them and mourning clothes which are suitable for their position as servants.
Look at Source 8a and 8b.
- What else did Pepys leave William Hewer?
- Why is it perhaps not surprising that Pepys had a collection of these objects? [Clue: Find out where Pepys worked.]
- What two things did Pepys leave to his servants?
- How do you think servants’ mourning clothes would differ from those of their master?
- What do these bequests [gifts] tell us about Samuel Pepys?