Robert Treat Paine Papers, Volume 2
I1 have my Brother Copley's directions to let you know that he would be very glad if his Cause could be brought to a Tryal at the ensueing setting of the Court—That Collo. Putnam and the two Mr. Quincey's are joined with you in the Defence—That he would take it as a perticular495Favour if you would make yourself entirely acquainted with every Argument that can operate in his Favour—and that you would prepare yourself to speak and in conjunction with Collo. Putnam to make the most vigorouse Defence the Cause is capable off. I am further directed to supply you with any Papers &c. that you may want, of which you will please to inform me by a Line. My Brother expects to be at home in about three Weeks when he intends to do what shall be hansome and entirely to your satisfaction.2 I am with great Respect Sir your most Obednt. and hble. Servt.,
Henry Pelham (1748/9–1806), half-brother of John Singleton Copley, and himself a painter and engraver. He left Boston as a loyalist in 1776, settled in England, eventually became well known as a cartographer of Ireland (DAB ).
On this case and its resolution, see John Singleton Copley to RTP, Aug. 14, 1770.
Our Supr. Court yesterday met & adjourned over to next Tuesday on Acco. of publick Thanksgiving this week. I must Intreat you will not fail to Come down the day before the court That we may be ready to proceed in those Cases of Mr. Apthorps.1 I have particular Reasons to desire your Attendance in Season & Beg you will not Suffer any Thing to prevent you. I am in haste Dr. Sir, Your very humble Servt.,
These actions were again continued at this time. After several continuances of the three cases, Joseph Warren adr. v. Charles Ward Apthorp, John Adams (as attorney for the plaintiff) requested the court to discontinue the suits. The plaintiff was taxed for costs at £16.3.4, £16.3.4, and £19.17.2 respectively (Minute Book, Superior Court, Suffolk Co., Feb. 1772). Samuel Fitch was the attorney listed for the defendant, and RTP's role is unclear.