Scarce twice-signed partly-printed DS, signed on the reverse, “J. Adams” and “Adams,” one page both sides, 8 x 6.5, November 21, 1768. Legal document filled out on the front with approximately 150 words in Adams’s hand concerning the plea and appearance of Samuel Vase before a magistrate regarding an unpaid debt of £66. Endorsed on the left side of the reverse, “Mr. Officer, attach Sufft or hold to Bail—by order, J. Adams,” and signed in the lower left, “Adams.” In very good to fine condition, with toning and splits along folds.
Firmly established as a well-respected lawyer in Boston, Adams had recently emerged on the political stage as a leader of the opposition to the Stamp Act of 1765. In this same month of November 1768, he undertook the defense of John Hancock against charges of smuggling wine aboard his sloop Liberty. Although the trial took place in the often biased vice admiralty court—one that disallowed juries and cross-examination—Adams ably defended Hancock and prolonged the case until it was dropped with charges dismissed. The trial received broad coverage in the press and the perceived injustice fueled anti-British sentiment among many colonists. A desirable, lengthy example from this sought-after founding father, highlighted by the presence of two signatures. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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