Massachusetts lawyer (1731–1814) who served as one of the prosecutors of British soldiers during the Boston Massacre trial; he later signed the Declaration of Independence. Manuscript DS, one page, 6 x 7.5, March 26, 1743. A legal document wherein Thomas Jennings of Willington, Connecticut, and David Hill of Holliston agree to pay Thomas Paine [Robert’s father] the sum of £100. Paine, then a student at Boston Latin School who had turned twelve just days earlier, signs on behalf of his aged father. Two small paper seals remain intact at lower right. A few faint, minor spots and a hint of toning to edges, otherwise fine, condition. An exceptional example which undoubtedly represents one of the earliest surviving examples of Paine’s handwriting! Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
