On January 16th of 1980, Japanese customs officials found 7.7 ounces of cannabis in Paul McCartney‘s luggage as he entered the country, resulting in a 10-day stay in a Tokyo prison and the cancellation of the Wings tour of Japan. After being released, he was told never to return.

The highlight of the whole ordeal came five days in, when Paul’s friend — the slightly eccentric, inimitable reggae legend that is Lee “Scratch” Perry — sent a message to Tokyo’s Minister of Justice in an effort lend his support. His entertaining plea can be enjoyed below.

Transcript follows.

(Source: Jamie Rowland; Image: Lee “Scratch” Perry, via.)

Transcript

21 JANUARY 1980 ARK OF THE COVENANT

5 CARDIFF CRESCENT DR.

KINGSTON, JAMAICA

AIR WHITE SMOKE SIGNAL

EARTH MOON BASE

JUDA ONLY LAW HOUSE

ISRAEL LIGHT HOUSE MINISTER OF JUSTICE

1-1-1 KASUMIGASEKI

CHIYODA-KU

TOKYO, JAPAN Dear Sirs, I LEE PIPECOCK JACKSON PERRY would LOVE to express my concern over your consideration of one quarter kilo to be an excessive amount of herbs in the case as it pertains to master PAUL McCARTNEY. As a creator of nature’s LOVE, light, life and all things under the creation sun, positive feelings through songs, good times and no problems. I find the Herbal powers of marijuana in its widely recognized abilities to relax, calm and generate positive feeling a must. Herbs is his Majesty’s. All singers positive directions and liberty Irrations. Please do not consider the amount of herbs involved excessive. Master PAUL McCARTNEY’s intentions are positive. BABY BLUE GREEN STAR

PIPECOCK JACKSON

LEE “SCRATCH” PERRY

BANANA I PEN JA

NATURES LOVE DEFENDER