Franklin Pierce Autograph Letter Signed on a Copyright Case

ALS signed “Fr. Pierce,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 9.75, January 4, 1840. Handwritten letter to Asa Fowler in Concord, New Hampshire, concerning a legal case involving copyright. In part: "I think our examination of the whole deed of conveyance…might serve to explain the intention of the grantor at the time the instrument was executed…Now the operation of the act, in my judgement, was not in renewal of the copyright at the expiration of the 14 years, but the extension of it…There was therefore no expiration of 'the present copyright.'" Addressed on the integral leaf in Pierce's hand. In very good to fine condition, with intersecting folds and a few heavy wrinkles.