SAMUEL ADAMS (1722-1803). Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Massachusetts; Revolutionary patriot. Adams was the leading spokesman for American independence, giving many speeches and serving on many committees towards that cause. He vehemently opposed the Stamp Act, the Sugar Act, and British colonial policy in general, and was one of the organizers of the Boston Tea Party. His constant criticism of the British contributed to the tensions which lead to the Boston Massacre (1770). Of Adams it has been said, "Temperament and circumstances combined to give Samuel Adams but one occupation-the public business; in which he demonstrated a passionate and unquestioned faith in the virtue of the cause he served. This is perhaps the principle key to the quality and the success of all his labors" (DAB). 14 ½” x 9”. DS. July 18, 1796. “To Benjamin Butterfield Gentleman Greeting You being appointed Lieutenant of a Company in the Seventh Regiment /Second Brigade/ Third Division of the Militia of this Commonwealth……” Signed by Samuel Adams as Governor and Commander in Chief of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Paper loss at bottom center at fold. JAMES BRADLEY VARNUM (1751 – 1821). U.S. politician from Massachusetts. Seventh Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Dated Middlesex – Chelmsford, September 12th 1796. Signed on verso verifying that “Personally appeared Lieut. Benjamin Butterfield and took and satisfied the oaths and Declarations pointed out by the Constitution as prerequisites to his Entering on the duties of the office assigned him by the within Commission . Before J. B. Varnum Colonel”.