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,” one page both sides, 8 x 10, September 26, 1827. Key writes from Georgetown to Arthur Shanff[?]. In part: “Capt. W— called on me this evening with the letter from Shaw to you about your … land. As we are all determined here to have the canal, I concurred with Capt. M— in thinking that you ought not to sell. There can be no doubt but that the canal, even before it is begun, as soon as it is plainly seen that it will be done, will raise the price of those lands very considerably. I suppose you got the 50$ & the letter I last wrote you. I shall go to Annapolis next month & will see if Mr. H— is prepared to pay & if the tables are sold….” The adjacent leaf bears the address panel written in another hand. Accompanied by an unsigned transcript (in another hand) of a legal document related to a case in which Key was involved as attorney. In fair condition, with separations at folds touching a few words, chips, staining, and show-through of ink affecting legibility of second page (including signature). R&R COA.
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