DS, signed in black felt tip “John Lennon” and in black ballpoint “Neil Aspinall,” one page, 8 x 10, October 15, 1968. The document is an agreement between publisher Northern Songs and the Performing Right Society, Ltd. for the division of royalties for the song “Honey Pie,” wherein 6/12ths (the composer’s share) is to be paid to Maclen (Music) Ltd., the other 6/12ths (the publisher’s share) to be paid to Northern Songs, Ltd. Aspinall, one of the key members of the “Liverpool Mafia” who surrounded the Beatles throughout their career, first met Paul and George when they were all students at the Liverpool Institute. Aspinall went on to study accounting, and, while living at the home of Pete Best, bought a second-hand van and became the Beatles' road manager. He later became the band’s personal assistant and, in January 1968, managing director of Apple. Aspinall later headed Apple Films, where he produced the Beatles’ silver-screen swan song, Let It Be. The song named in the document, “Honey Pie,” was first released as a cut on the Beatles’ iconic White Album (1968). A few subtle, unobtrusive creases (lightly touching Lennon’s last name), small paperclip stain to top margin, and neat trimming to (evidently blank) lower margin, otherwise fine, fresh, bright condition. COA Roger Epperson/REAL and R&R COA.
