678. JOSEPH WANTON (1705-1780) Colonial Governor of Rhode Island who protected his citizens form British retribution following the Gaspee Affair, but was denied office for refusing to abide by the terms of the Suffolk resolves. Scarce D.S. 1p. sm. folio, [Providence], May 7, 1770, an appointment of John Farnum to serve as Justice of the Peace in Smithfield. Boldly signed at bottom with a large signature. Browned, chipped at margins, still very presentable. Set in an antique frame. $200-300