Baltimore lawyer 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,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 8.5 x 10, March 19, 1828. Letter addressed to Arthur, filled with recommendations for spiritual reading, how to live a spiritual life and do battle with the Devil. In part, “Engaged in seeking the best and greatest of all things. How much more to your advantage will this be than the greatest professional success, even if it enabled you to ‘gain the whole world’…This work is of God…although it is of grace, you must watch & seek & strive…we must ‘work out our salvation with fear and trembling’…Your great adversary, who has kept you so long from attending to religion will exert himself in every way to change your course…God is teaching us and he can do us good by the humblest instruments.” In very good condition, with expected folds, some light toning along folds and edges, small area of paper loss to edge of second page and moderate overall show through from text written on opposing sides. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
