Story was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court who favored expanding federal power. He wrote many legal treatises, including Commentaries on the Constitution of the United States, The Conflict of Laws, and Law of Partnership. Two items: ALS, signed “Joseph Story,” one page, 7.75 x 9, August 11, 1836. Story writes to Ezekiel H. Derby Esq. In part: “I had not the pleasure of receiving your kind invitation to Dinner on Saturday next until this forenoon. It would afford me the most sincere gratification to accept it, if I could; for I have passed few hours in a happier manner at any time than in your hospitable home. My Engagements, however, at the present time are so pressing, that I am unable to go to Salem.” The letter is affixed to a heavy cardstock album page, on the reverse of which is an affixed ADS, signed “Danl Webster,” 7.25 x 3.75, July 23, 1827. In full: “Received of Elias Hasket Derby Five hundred dollars being the amount due me for his instruction in my Office for three years commencing in September 1824.” Three other items from the original owner’s family are affixed below. An affixed biography of Story overlaps the top margin of his letter (affecting no text). Mounting as noted and scattered light soiling and toning, otherwise fine condition. RRAuction COA.
