Dr. John Newnan's father Anthony died in Salisbury, North Carolina. Hugh Newnan had been living with Thomas Stuart & brother, acting as a clerk in their store in Washington County. Stuart's mother became very sick, & he offered Dr. Newnan a "large reward" if he went to visit her. Hugh owed Thomas money, & agreed to have his wages garnished to pay it. The suit was filed to finally settle the debts between them.