Whereas there are divers loytering Runnaways in ye Collony who very often absent themselves from their Masters Service, And sometimes in two or three monthes cannot be found whereby their said Masters are at great charge in Finding them, And many times even to the losse of their years labour before they be had. Be it therefore Enacted & Confirmed that all Runnaways which shall absent themselves from their said Masters service shall be lyable to make satisfaction by service at the end of their tymes by Indenture (vizt) double the tyme of service so neglected, And in some Cases more if the Comissioners for the place appointed shall find it requisite & convenient And if such Runnaways shall be found to transgresse the second time or oftner (if it shall be dubly proved ag^t them, that then they shall be branded in the Cheek with the Letter R and passe under the Statute of incorrigible rogues, provided notwithstanding that where any servants shall have just Cause of Complaint ag^t their Masters or M^trss by harsh unchristian like usage or otherways for want of diet or Convenient Necessaryes
Virginia Council and Assembly, 1643-62, Laws.