Signer of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. A.D.S. "B. Franklin Presid.n" 1p. oblong 4to., Philadelphia, Nov. 4, 1786 in which he authorizes that "...a Commission be issued directed to Edward Shippen, Matthew Clarkson, Matthew Mease, George Hughes & Peter Baynton Esqrs. or any four of them..." Unfortunately we do not know the nature of the commission. Clarkson (1758-1825), served as an aide to Benedict Arnold and served with distinction at Saratoga. Edward Shippen (1728-1806) was the father of Peggy Shippen who married Benedict Arnold. Fine condition.