Runaway servants were not an uncommon phenomenon in the 18th century. From the genealogist's standpoint, this presents a methodological problem, since it was in the runaway's best interest to conceal his/her identity after making a successful getaway. Even if the runaway kept the same name, it is quite likely that the link to his original residence in America and to his country of origin was lost--unless his/her identity was uncovered in the thousands...