Baltimore lawyer (1779–1843) who was inspired to write the “Star-Spangled Banner” after he witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry by the British in 1814. ALS signed “F. S. Key,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.25 x 12, April 6, 1799. Key writes from Annapolis to J. L. Kerr in Easton. After mentioning a recent trip to the country, Key continues: “I had but just returned, when a letter from my aunt summoned me to George Town; so that you see I have been quite a traveller. I find Annapolis pretty gay, we have a large party tonight … & had a very pleasant one yesterday at Murray’s. We have besides two extra belles in town—a Miss Sydebotham from England & Miss Murray, who has returned from George Town, where she has been about a year, improved beyond belief. She is really, I think, as handsome, if not more so, than either of her sisters. Miss Sydebotham is thought a perfect beauty. I most however differ from most people on this subject. She is a tall, graceful, majestic looking woman—which is a kind of beauty that can never captivate me. I prefer the ‘blue and laughing eye’ of the sportive Queen of Cyprus to the noble figure & stern dignity of the Aegis bearing Goddess. Amaryllis as once like the former, but now too much resembles the latter to be any longer Amaryllis…. I assure I should like prodigiously to continue my late roaming employment & cross the Bay, but I fine it altogether impossible—the proposal would startle the old fellow I’m sure….” In good to very good condition, with intersecting folds (partial separations and small holes touching a few words; hole at intersection near but not touching signature), mild scattered staining, soiling, and offsetting, and marginal seal-related loss to signed page. The writing is dark and clear throughout. R&R COA.
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