Adam D. Stewart was the plaintiff in error in a case brought before the United States Supreme Court. The dispute arose from an indictment against Stewart for selling liquor without a license, which he argued violated his rights under the Constitution of Maryland and its Bill of Rights. He claimed that since he had been granted permission to sell alcohol by local authorities, it should be considered legal according to state law and thus not subject to federal prosecution. The court disagreed with this argument, ruling that Congress has exclusive authority over all matters concerning interstate commerce and therefore could regulate sales of alcoholic beverages even if they were allowed by state laws or regulations. Furthermore, the court held that states do not have any power to interfere with congressional legislation on such matters as these are within their jurisdiction alone. This decision established precedent for future cases involving similar issues regarding Congressional authority over interstate commerce versus individual states' powers when it comes to regulating trade between them

In the case of Adam D. Stewart v. The United States, Justice McLean delivered a dissenting opinion in which he argued that the plaintiff was entitled to compensation for his services as an Indian agent and interpreter during the Seminole War of 1817-1819. He reasoned that Congress had authorized payment for such services by passing a law in 1820, and thus it was unjust to deny him compensation now after more than 30 years had passed since he performed those duties. Furthermore, Justice McLean noted that while there were some technical errors with respect to how Stewart submitted his claim for reimbursement, these should not be used as grounds to deny him what is rightfully owed under the law; instead they should be overlooked given all other circumstances surrounding this case. Ultimately, Justice McLean concluded that justice demanded restitution on behalf of Mr. Stewart and urged Congress or executive authority take action accordingly so as not deprive him from receiving just recompense due to mere technicalities or delays beyond his control