From the Richmond Dispatch, 10/6/1900, p. 7, c. 5

MISS VAN LEW’S ESTATE.
Whether He Will Act as Executor, Mr. Reynolds Will Decide To-Day

Mr. John Philip Reynolds, of Boston, who was appointed by Miss Van Lew as one of the executors of her will, has not yet determined whether he will act in that capacity. Mr. Reynolds arrived in this city on Wednesday night, and has had several conferences with the relatives of the deceased, and with Mr. J. R. V. Daniel, who was Miss Van Lew’s attorney.

The reason for Mr. Reynolds’ hesitancy is the difficulty that would surround his duties as administrator of the estate by reason of the distance which would separate him from the close investigation of Miss Van Lew’s affairs, and his own pressing business matters.

These objections have been in some measure overruled by the heirs, and Mr. Reynolds is expected to announce his decision this morning. If he undertakes the task – and it is believed that he will – he will duly qualify this morning, and it is understood that he will appoint Mr. J. R. V. Daniel, with the consent of all concerned, to administer the estate in his absence.

In this event the appraisement of the property will take place this afternoon, and the heirs, who are waiting until this has been done, will then leave for their respective homes.

If Mr. Reynolds decides not to undertake the task assigned to him, the heirs will petition the Chancery Court to appoint an administrator. As a matter of fact, there is very little work for an executor to do, as Miss Van Lew had for years been putting her affairs in order.

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