Partial partly-printed DS, endorsed on the reverse as simply “Adams,” one page, 7.75 x 2.75, September 7, 1761. A self-contained document regarding the judgment of a legal dispute. In part: “To the Damage of the said Oliver…the Sum of Twelve Pounds, which shall then and there be made to appear, with other due Damages: And Have you there this Writ, with your Doings therein. Witness Eliakim Hutchinson Esq.” A partial manuscript describing the case, in which Isaac Tirrell was charged for trespassing on the property of Oliver Gay, is affixed to the top of the document. Also includes an additional partly-printed document fragment related to the same case. Partial separations to vertical folds (affecting the printed text but not Adams’s signature), and a few areas of toning, otherwise fine condition. This document dates to the very beginning of King George III’s reign, just three weeks before his coronation; during this same period, Adams began to develop serious interest in the cause of the American colonies. Adams was admitted to the bar in 1758, at the age of 23, where he became a highly influential jurist. He first emerged as a prominent adversary of the King as an outspoken opponent of the Stamp Act 1765, which was imposed by the British Parliament without consulting the American legislatures—a central piece of legislation in the concept of ‘taxation without representation’ that drove the colonies to revolt. Adams is uncommon in general and especially scarce from this early point in his career. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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