American lawyer and "STAR SPANGLED BANNER" author FRANCIS SCOTT KEY (1779 - 1843), exceptionally scarce handwritten autograph letter signed as "very respectfully yours, FS Key" in stunning vintage framed display.
 
 
Dated June 26, 1838, in minor legal maneuverings Key advises his client that "the court decided against us...but I was fortunate enough to find another objection which has just been argued and held forth to the deposition..." Key continues, "...and as we should want to prove our exhibits and make our defence, it has resulted in the agreement which you have herewith..."
 
 
CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY SIGNATURIST-INK EXPERT EXAMINATION. Unconditionally GUARANTEED GENUINE to pass any reputable third-party authentication service (PSA/DNA, JSA, Beckett) - or your money back! 
 
 
An amateur poet, Key first wrote the lyrics for a poem entitled, "The Defense of Fort McHenry", which was then set to an old English gentlemen's society tune and eventually became the United States national anthem. During the War of 1812, Key dined aboard the British ship HMS Tonnant as the guests of three British officers to negotiate the release of American prisoners. Key was not allowed to return to his sloop because he had become familiar with the strength and position of the British units and with the British intent to attack Baltimore. Thus, Key was unable to do anything but watch the bombarding of the American forces at Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore on the night of September 13–14, 1814. At dawn, Key was able to see an American flag still waving. Back in Baltimore and inspired, Key wrote a poem about his experience that would later become the National anthem by Executive Order of President Woodrow Wilson in 1916.
 
Some paper loss where the seal was broken to open the letter by the original recipient, as shown.
 
A handsome and impressive addition to the den or law office, or for the Americana collector, autograph aficionado or history buff.
 
Sold as is, as shown.