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This indenture of September 6, 1797 served to "place and bind out" Rhoda Ballard, age twelve, to the care of Samuel Wells of Deerfield, Massachusetts. She agrees to be a good servant and to honor her master's wishes. Mr. Wells agrees to provide for her food, washing, lodging, and clothing; in addition he will instruct her (or cause her to be instructed) in needlework and housewifery and in reading and writing. The end of the indenture is set for March 26, 1803 when Rhoda will be eighteen. The terms of the indenture are agreeable to Mr. Ballard, his daughter, and Mr. Wells.