Whence the "A." in Wm. A. Ashley? (from Dennis Smith) ... I think the middle initial of "A" for William Ashley is a mistake. I'm pretty sure that on one document, probably his will, he signed with the letter "A" for his mark. "X" was not the only letter used to sign by mark. I wish I had it with me so that I could scan a copy for you and will do that when I get home if no one takes care of it before then.