Runaway Slaves in Britain: bondage, freedom and race in the eighteenth century

ON Wednesday the 2d of January Instant a Negro Man, by Name JOHN GIFT, absented himself from his Master, JOHN KIDDOLL’s Service, in Princess-Street, Rotherhith. Whomsoever will take him up, or cause the above to be taken and brought to the above John Kiddoll, shall receive Ten Guineas Reward, and reasonable Charges paid; he lately offered himself Cook on Board some Ship to the East or West Indies as a Freeman, though he is the real Property of the above Kiddoll, &c. If any Commander or Officer will secure him, they shall have the same Reward, with Thanks; but whosoever employs, entertains, or harbours the above Negro, shall be treated with as the Law directs. When he went away he had on a black Wig and Hat, a Snuff-coloured Coat, Green Waistcoat, and Black Breeches; he is about 38 Years of Age, has at present a Cold, with a Consumptive Cough, and of a yellow Complection, speaks good English, about 5 Feet 5 or 6 Inches high, and rather holds down his Head when he walks, but believe has changed his Name that he may not be apprehended.
  He will not be advertised any more.