"… The widow's thirds appear to have been insufficient for her support, as is shown by a deed from her to Gideon Potter of New Haven, dated Oct, 19, 1739, in which she tells that "having by the providence of God been brought unto needy circumstances yt by many witnesses doth and may approve." (New Haven Land Records, vol. 11, p. 86,) Widow Mercy Luddington died Nov. 23, 1743, aged 75. (Dodd's East-Haven Register, p. 169,) Her will, made Jan. 7 1742-3, was presented Dec. 5, 1743, when James Way, her son-in-law, was appointed executor. The will names son Eliphalet; grandchildren, viz.: John Dawson's children, Benjamin Mallory's children; granddaughter Elizabeth Goodsell; grandchildren, viz.; John Luddington's children, Jude Luddington and Elizabeth Rose; granddaughter Mary Mallory; and daughter Dorcas Way. (New Haven Probate Records, vol. 6, p, 528.) An agreement was made Feb, 6, 1743-4, between James Way, executor, and Eliphalet Luddington whereby he took certain lands and paid all debts and legacies (New Haven Probate Records, vol. 6, p, 543) ; after which there was land to the amount of £20. 14. 2. set to each child or their heirs, with the exception of the heirs of John, the division being made Sept. 3, 1744 (ibid. vol. 6, p. 565). Whether John's heirs were in fact omitted, or whether it was only an omission in copying, does not appear. The Elizabeth Goodsell named in connection with the estate of Mercy Luddington is the Elizabeth Penfield named in the will and distribution of William Luddington's estate."
