I find it touching that Abraham Perkins (1613-1683) thought so carefully about his wife's well-being after his death. Through his will, he provided a place for her to live, an income from "two cows & their increase," firewood after "making it fit for her use," feed for the animals, food for herself, four sheep, and a third of "ye apples in ye orchard" which would provide both sustenance and income.
He also remembered each family member in some way, including his grandchildren, in the pages (not shown here) of the will that follow the passages below.
The will was dated August 22, 1683. Abraham died August 31, 1683. His wife Mary Wise Perkins lived until 1706, hopefully in the good care of her sons.
This is the part of the will where he provides for his wife:
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Source
1. New Hampshire Wills and Probate Records, 1643-1982, All Counties, Volume 31, pages 263-265. Ancestry.com
After reading this, I am reminded that English can be a very beautiful language. I have so much respect for the skill of writing. We're all in such a rush anymore that most of us just don't take the time anymore to indulge in its elegant twists and turns!!!
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