Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Stephen Higginson, 27 October 1789
From: Higginson, Stephen
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston October 27th. 1789.
Sir
Your Letter of the 9th instant I rec’d; and sensible of the utility of the information you request, I shall give you what Aid I can, and shall readily communicate with you upon the important Subjects you mention, as health and leisure will permit.
We have now arrived to that period, as I conceive, when every thing national should assume the appearance of System and Stability; and I am happy to see Gentlemen at the head of the great departments, who are well impressed with that Idea, and who have ability to project and pursue proper measures in a national Stile. I remember, that, when in Congress together in 1783, we differed in our Ideas as to the measures applicable to our then political situation. We had then the same End in View, a firm and efficient Government, we differed only as to the means. But, I apprehend we shall now perfectly coincide, as to all great points; and I shall chearfully cooperate with you, to give all possible dignity force and stability to our new Government.
Your first question is very general and extensive, I shall answer it as well and as clearly as I can. The Vessels built in this State for foreign, or freighting Voyages, are generally much alike in their form; and their Sizes run from 130 to 250 Tons, some few are larger than the last, but more are less than the former Size. They are about as capacious as the generality of the British Vessels; but not so much so as many that are built at Hull, Whitby and some other ports in England. They are more burthensome than French Vessels generally are; and not very far short of those of Denmark Russia and Sweeden; but much less so than most which are built by the Dutch. Our Vessels have rather less capacity for carrying, than is the average burthen of those of the same dimensions, of the Nations above named; but they usually exceed them in sailing, and, as the Seamen express themselves, are better Sea-Boats, or safer Vessels. The latter qualities I find by comparing their passages with ours, as well as by the many trials, which I have known, by their accidentally meeting each other at Sea; and by the many accidents they meet with more than our Vessels in the same situations. It has long been a doubt in my mind, whether we should gain by giving our Vessels more cavity; I rather suppose we build them as full, as will comport with sailing tolerably well, and making good weather. The Dutch Vessels, that are so very full built, labour very much and sail very heavy in a rough sea; they frequently meet with disasters from their construction; and they never could gain our Coast in severe Winters. The same objection applies to some of the fullest of the English Vessels in a degree; and I know, that our Vessels have often had the preference of freights in Europe, on account of their model, when other things were equal. The Vessels built in the southern States are more sharp than ours at both ends; and they carry less, and sail rather better when they are not deeply laden. Upon the whole I am of opinion, that our Vessels are equal to those of any Nation, considered collectively, for their capacity for sailing and carrying; but I have seen some of the British and Danish Vessels, that I thought superior to almost any of ours in their construction.
To the second Question I answer, that our Vessels cost, when fitted for the sea with one suit of Sails only, and no surplussage of other Articles, from five to seven pounds pr. ton for those of 130 to 200 Tons, according to the goodness of the Hull, the Rigging and other Materials—those from 180 to 300 Tons cost six to eight pounds ⅌ ton. The cost and the value of the Hull, depends on the kind and goodness of the Wood, its being well seasoned, the goodness of the Work, and the quantity of Iron put into it. There is also much difference in the cost and goodness of the materials, used in equipping our Vessels. In general they are built in the cheapest manner, though much less durable; because our Traders have generally but small capitals, and can not afford to have much of their stock in the Hull only of the Vessel. When they are upon trading Voyages, they think it more for their interest to use more ordinary Vessels, and have larger Cargo’s; but should the freighting Business be their Object, they will then build better and more costly Vessels, than they have generally done. The British Vessels, taken collectively, may cost from 40 to 50 ⅌. Cent more than ours; and they are worth in about that proportion for real service, to those who can afford the expense without injuring their Business. The French Vessels cost about 30 ⅌. Cent more than ours; but they are not proportionably valuable, either for their duration, or the burthen they carry. The Sweeds Danes and Russians build their Vessels at about 20 ⅌. Cent less than the British; and they both endure and carry well. These are all mostly built with Oak, some are built in the Baltic with Oak, Fir and hard pine &c. The Dutch build a great many Vessels of Pine, Fir and other Wood besides Oak. They are very durable and burthensome, and they cost generally as much as the British Vessels. Their frames are built of Oak and other hard Wood; but they are planked and finished with the other kinds, of choice. I believe the Dutch Vessels generally endure the longest, perhaps more from their extraordinary care of them than any thing else. The British Vessels come next for duration, then the Swedish, Danish, Russian, French and American. It is very common for the Dutch and English Vessels to be good after 30 years wear, with some partial repairs; and its a rare thing for our northern Vessels to be good after 12 or 15 years. Many suppose there is a very great difference in the Wood naturally, for enduring; but I have known some few Vessels built here to last very good near 30 years, though they are generally very rotten at 6 to 10 years. And I do believe that if we took the same pains to select the best Wood, to season it well, and to have the work as well done, our Vessels would endure as well nearly as any others; and when the freighting Business shall become an Object with our Merchants, I believe we shall have as good Vessels as the British. If our Vessels were built with the same care as the British, they would cost much more than they now do; but they would still be from 15 to 20 ⅌. Cent lower, as to the Hull, than those built in Europe of equal quality, there is that difference in the prices of the materials and the labour. The materials for equipping them are about the same here, one with another, as in England and France; they are rather lower than higher. I have insensibly, I find, connected your 2 and 3 Questions in my Answer, they are indeed so blended in their nature it was not easy to avoid it.
Your 4th Question supposes a regular Trade carried on with us by foreign Ships. This is not the case. Those Vessels come here transiently, and, in general, circuitously, no clear Answer can be given to it therefore as to them. Nor indeed can it be done with respect to many of our own Vessels. Our people are so very enterprising and irregular in their Trade, it is not easy to follow them; you must traverse a large part of the Globe, and in all directions to do it. We have a direct and regular Trade with the West-India Islands and the Dutch Settlements on the Main, which is our largest branch of Trade. In this Business our Vessels make from one to three Voyages in a year, generally two. This depends upon the place and the object of their Voyage. Vessels that go after Molasses seldom make more than two Voyages, much time is spent in collecting that Article; and a larger half of the large Vessels make that their object. We have a regular Trade also to Europe. Those Vessels employed in carrying Fish and Provisions to Spain, Portugal and Italy, never scarcely make more than two Voyages. Those which go to France and Britain two. Those that go up the Baltic but one, and that circuitous, by taking a freight of Tobacco, Rice or Fish to some other part of Europe. Some few have gone lately direct to the Baltic with our Rum and Provisions &c; but these can make only one Voyage there, they may have time for some other short Voyage beside. Our large whaling Vessels that go upon the Coast of Brazil, and the Coast of Africa beyond the Cape of good Hope make only one Voyage—the smaller ones that Fish in the Streights of Belisle and the Atlantic make two Voyages. Our Vessels in the Cod-Fishery, that use the Banks, make from 3 to 4 fares as they are called. Beside these we have a number of Vessels, about 20, that go to Mauritius, India and China, these take from 1 to 2 1/2 years in their Voyages.
To your fifth Question I answer, That in our Vessels from 150 to 180 Tons we employ from 8 to 10 hands or persons in all, from 200 to 300 Tons we use 10 to 14 in all, even those that go to India have no more to navigate them. The British, Dutch and Swedes use rather more Men in their Vessels than we do, perhaps about 16 instead of 14, in their common Voyages; but when they go into the Indian Ocean they have still more. The French use many more Officers and men than we do, at least 60 ⅌. Cent more.

To your sixth I reply, that our Seamen have about seven dollars a month upon an Average, our Mates about 12 dollars, our Masters vary according to their Voyages and perquisites. When they sell their Cargo’s and do the whole Business of the Voyage, they have a Commission of 5 ⅌. Cent on Sales and 2 1/2 on purchases; their Wages is then from 10 to 12 dollars ⅌. Month, and they pay their own expenses at Sea and in port, except the Ships comon Provision; and if they need the aid of a Merchant they pay him out of their own Commissions. This is the course in our West and East-India Business almost universally; and frequently in our Voyages to Europe. Our Masters have from 3 to 10 Tons privilege, according to the size of the Vessel and the nature of the Voyage, and from 15 to 20 dollars ⅌. Month when they go consigned to Merchants. Our Mates and Seamen are also allowed a privilege, or an Adventure, and many of our own Seamen make use of it, which makes them much more attentive and interested in the safety of the Vessel; but foreigners rarely do. The European Vessels are very generally consigned; some of the British and French are not; Their Wages to their Masters are of course higher than ours generally have. Nor is it very common for them to have much privilege, they depend chiefly for support upon their Wages primage and other small perquisites allowed them by the Owners and Freighters. When our Vessels take freights the Masters receive the usual primage &c; and in some cases they are allowed 2/6d. Sterling ⅌. day while in port, as in the Fish Trade to Spain &c, because their Business calls them ashore and subjects them to expense without any Commissions or primage &c, to defray it. We estimate the monthly pay of our Vessels from 150 to 180 Tons with 9 persons at about 75 dollars, when they are consigned, and about 70 when they are not. The subsistance is about 35 dollars ⅌. Month for the same Vessels, beside the Harbour pay to the Masters when consigned of 2/6d. Sterling ⅌. day, which may be about 5 dollars ⅌. Month for Voyages in general. The allowance made to Masters by Europeans, beside their monthly Wages, are very various; considered generally, I believe they are not very wide in amount from ours, except in their West-India Ships, where they have much greater emoluments, because they are at greater expense in collecting their freights. In some parts of Europe also they have larger allowances for the same reason. We navigate our Vessels much cheaper than the French, lower than the British in general do, and on about the same terms as the Dutch, Danes and Swedes. We use fewer Men than any of them do; but these three last subsist them cheaper and pay them rather less than we do. I suppose however, that when we shall have become more acquainted with the freighting Business, we shall be able to take freights nearly as low as any others; for our Seamen are more hardy and active, they do more work, and our Vessels make shorter passages than others. The Capitals of our Merchants is in general too small to pursue the freighting Business with the greatest advantage, as yet; or to have them enter into it of choice, and with an active Spirit. Though their income would be more regular and certain, they will, unless it be made more productive, prefer some other pursuits, that promise more benefit. There is indeed not only the hope of doing better to lead them to other objects, but there is the love, which, men used to enterprise always feel, for contingent Business; they are a sort of Gamblers, and from habit they are fond of risks, that have a flattering appearance. But this will subside, when experience shall have proved, that they can in the other way obtain a comfortable and more certain Subsistance. At some future oppy I shall offer you, perhaps, some Observations as to our revenue System &c, in the mean time I remain with respect Sir your very hume. Serv
Stephen Higginson


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Barney, 29 October 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Barney, John

New York October 29th. 1789.
Sir
I have duly received your letter of the 21. instant and beg you to accept my thanks for it. The intimations of Zealous and intelligent citizens will always be received by me with attention and acknowledgement.
The ideas contained in your Letter appear to me solid and judicious. As far as my reflections have gone they coincide very much with the views you entertain of the matter. But at present nothing more can be done than to collect the information for some proper plan to be submitted to Congress at their next meeting; no power being at present vested any where for making the requisite arrangement.
Let me request you to continue to furnish me with whatever hints may occur to you relating to the security of the Revenue. I am with esteem   Sir,   Your Obedt. servant

A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury
John Barney Esqr.Baltimore.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Goodhue, [29 October 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Goodhue, Benjamin

[New York, October 29, 1789]
My Dear Sir
I am duly favoured with your letter of the Eighteenth instant, and receive the observations you have been so obliging as to make, not only with candor but with thanks as a mark of your friendship and confidence.
I am far from relying so much upon my own judgment, as not to think it very possible, I may have been mistaken in both the constructions on which you remark. Indeed I see abundant room for adopting opposite ones, and did not, ’till after mature reflection; conclude on those which have been announced, and not then, intirely, without hesitation.
The reasoning which prevailed in my mind in each case was of this nature.
First as to the Bounty—
The original and express object of the allowance was by way of compensation for the duties on salt. The declared motive of the suspension was, that there was salt within the United States, on which no such duties had been paid. The Equity of the suspending clause, which is, that there ought to be no compensation where there is no consideration; and the general intent of the Legislature, which was, that there should be no compensation where there had been no such consideration, were therefore both, manifestly, against the allowance of the bounty on the articles shipped between the passing of the first Act and the passing of the second. And though the letter of the suspending clause is future, yet its reason being retrospective and the actual making of the allowance for articles already shipped being future also, I thought it admissible so to construe the law as to arrest this allowance, in that sense future; in conformity to the real justice of the case and the main design of the legislature. In a circumstance in which the equity was palpable, and the law doubtful, I thought it my duty as an executive servant of the government, not to let the public money be parted with, on a mere point of construction, till that construction should be judicially established. This resource will be open to any individual who will choose to pursue it; by an action against the collector of the Port, from which the articles were shipped.
Secondly   As to the Discount for Prompt Payment.
The words “prompt payment” are in my apprehension synonimous with immediate payment or payment down. The most obvious import of the clause in question seems therefore to be this. Where the amount of the duties exceeds fifty dollars, time shall be given for payment upon proper bond—security; but if the party prefers making immediate payment, or paying the money down, he shall have an allowance of ten per Cent, on all above fifty dollars, for doing it. The confining the discount to the excess illustrates the meaning of the provision and shews that payment in the first instance was contemplated; for if it had been intended, that the discount might be made at any time before the bonds became due, it would be difficult to imagine why it should not extend to the fifty dollars as well as to the excess.
I was the more inclined to this construction because I supposed the contrary one was of a nature to be rendered more beneficial to any Collector, who might choose to avail himself of it, than to the Public. And in general I doubt much that it is the interest of the public to make such a discount; (as they now borrow at less in its operation than 6 ⅌. Cent. On which account I felt no inclination to extend the discount.
Thus have I, My Dear Sir, freely explained to you the motives by which I have been governed in the instances in question. And I shall be happy that they may appear to you satisfactory. I am sure at least that you will view the intention favourably. And I beg you to be assured of the friendship and esteem, with which I am
Dr. Sir   Your Obedient servt

A Hamilton
New York October 29. 1789
Benjamin Goodhue EsquireSalem


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Beverley Randolph, 29 October 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Randolph, Beverley

Treasury DepartmentOctober 29th. 1789.
Sir
Your letter by the last Post without date I have had the honor of receiving.
I perceive that you had concluded to defer directing the Amount of the State debt to be furnished, ’till a provision is made by the Legislature respecting Funds for discharging it. Allow me to remark Sir, that I am persuaded, for a variety of reasons, that the Amount of the debt, is the most material part of the information desired by the House of Representatives; and that with regard to Funds, it will be a complete answer to their enquiry to state those which do exist if there are any, and if there are none, to state that there are none.
Under this conviction, I beg leave to urge that your Excellency will have the goodness to direct that the Amount of the Debt be immediately transmitted to this Office, accompanied with such remarks respecting the other objects of the Resolution, as the actual state of things shall suggest.
I have the honor to be   With perfect consideration   Your Excellency’s   Most Obedient, and Humble Servant

Alexr. HamiltonSecy of the Treasury
His ExcellencyBeverley Randolph Esqr.Governor of the State of Virginia.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, 31 October 1789
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] October 31, 1789. Proposes the use of boats to prevent smuggling in Delaware Bay.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Rice, 31 October 1789
From: Rice, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Boston, October 31, 1789. On November 16, 1789, Hamilton wrote to Rice: “Since your Letter of the 31st. of October last.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from ———, [October 1789]
From:
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[October, 1789]
Answer
1st   The Ships built in Massachusetts are constructed to combine the two great objects of sailing & carrying, perhaps better than those of either of the Nations mentiond (those of France & G Britain in some instances excepted); whereby altho’ they may not be capable of carrying so much in proportion to their measure they will sail faster, are more safe at Sea; & have an advantage in beating to windward or off a Lee Shore, and they therefore have the preference in obtaining Freights
2   They are built principally 1st of White Oak & Plank Timber; the Decks being always of white Pine; if the Timber has been previously prepared by being soak’d in salt water from 6 to 12 months to extract the Sap; they seldom require repairs during 12 or 15 years; & with repairs will be serviceable for 20 years—
4th   The larger Vessels from 180 Tons upward, are generally employd in a circuitous Voyage; to the Southern States (commonly for freight) from thence to Europe, from whence for want of Stock to purchase a more valuable Cargo; or because no other bulky Articles of Merchandize can be had which will answer in this Country, they almost universally return home with Salt—this Circuit occupies from 10 to 12 Months—many Vessels also chiefly of the size mention’d, have for 3 Years past been employd in Voyages directly to the Cape of Good Hope, Isles of France & Bourbon and the several Ports of Nether India, their Cargoes consisting chiefly of Lumber & Provisions—some of these Vessels are sold at those places, others return home with Coffee & other articles of Produce & in a very few instances some have proceeded to Canton from whence they have returned with Bohea Tea &c These adventures for the two last years have prov’d generally unprofitable owing to our Ships having overstock’d those markets with provisions & other articles of which their Cargoes have been composed
The Vessels of this State from 100 to 150 Tons are employd either in carrying the produce of the State to the W Indies or Europe, in which business they commonly make two Voyages in a Year—
5th   Vessels from 100 to 160 Tons are usually navigated with from 7 to 10 men including officers—those from 160 to 260 with from 10 to 15. A proportion of these are ordinary Seamen or Land-men—
6th   The Pay of the Masters varies from 20 to 50 dollars ⅌ month being governd by circumstances; when the master acts as consignee & receives a commission, the Wages are lower not being considered as an object—
The Pay of the Mariners is from 5 to 8 Dollars ⅌ Month for Subsistence they are allow’d, Beef, Pork, Bread & Pulse; and occassionly Sugar, Tea, Coffee & Rum
7th   Masters are allow’d the privelege of an Adventure in the Ship of 5⅌ Cent, with other small perquisites. In Voyages to W Indies they are commonly the Consignee & receive a Commission from 5 to 7 ½ ⅌ Cent upon Sale & returns, and when this doth not happen they are sometimes allow’d primage on owners goods & alway upon those taken as freight—
The Mariners are permitted to carry small Adventures; but seldom avail themselves of this pivelege


Title: Conversation with George Beckwith, [October 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Beckwith, George
To:

[New York, October, 1789]
Seventh.   I have requested to see you on this occasion from a Wish to Explain Certain points, relative to our situation, and from a desire to suggest a measure, which I conceive to be both for the interest of Great Britain, and of this Country to adopt. We have lately Established a Government upon principles, that in my opinion render it safe for any Nation to Enter into Treaties with us, Either Commercial or Political, which has not hitherto been the Case; I have always preferred a Connexion with you, to that of any other Country, We think in English, and have a similarity of prejudices, and of predilections; I have been in the habits of considering this subject, We are a young and a growing Empire, with much Enterprize and vigour, but undoubtedly are, and must be for years, rather an Agricultural, than a manufacturing people; yet our policy has had a tendency to suggest the Necessity of introducing manufactures, which Accordingly have made some progress in Connecticut, where Cloth has been manufactured to some Extent, leaving already a clear profit of between six and seven per cent to the proprietors, and Pensylvania has gone further in her Exertions in different branches. These and similar Efforts are to no Comparative Extent, but doubtless their Encrease will be proportioned to your Conduct.
I am free to say, that Although France has been indulgent to us, in certain points, yet, what she can furnish, is by no means so Essential or so suited to us as Your productions, nor do our raw Materials suit her so well as they do you.
The Government of a Country Cannot altogether change Either the taste or the disposition of a people, but its influence may check or cherish it.
We wish to form a Commercial treaty with you to Every Extent, to which you may think it for Your interest to go. Lord Lansdowne at the close of his Administration had a plan of this nature upon a very broad scale indeed, and one which I do not think now Attainable, Considering the Spirit of your late Navigation and regulating Acts, As Well as from various publications by persons of Considerable weight in England; but when I view the rapid Encrease of this country, its Extent, taste and disposition, I do think a Treaty of Commerce might be formed upon terms advantageous to both Countries; for unless this can be done, I Know very well nothing of this nature Can be Effected, And Kingdoms so circumstanced, can have little friendly intercourse. I do think we are, and shall be, great Consumers, and I am of opinion, that it will be better for Great Britain to grant us admission into her Islands under certain limitations of size of vessels, so as merely to Enable us to Carry our produce there, and to bring from thence the productions of those Islands to our own ports, under such restrictions as to prevent the possibility of our interfering with Your Carrying trade in Europe, than by a rigid adherence to Your present plan to produce a system of warfare in Commercial matters, which however Encouraged by France in this Country, during the late Sessions here, with a view to promote coldness and animosity between the two Countries, I have Ever viewed with much regret, as being directly opposed to that system, which upon Mature reflexion, I have thought it most Eligible for us to pursue.
The present Moment I view as particularly favourable for a plan of this Nature. We are now so Circumstanced as to be free to Enter into a discussion of this sort, from our Condition with regard to the other Maritime powers; this may not be the case hereafter.
We have a matter of great Importance to settle with Spain, I mean the navigation of the Missisippi; this is of the first moment to our territories to the Westward, they must have that outlet, without it they will be lost to us. As to your provinces to the Northward, on that score there is no Cause for jealousy; it never Can be our interest to Extend our possessions in that quarter, Even if we had the power; our Country is Already sufficiently large, more so perhaps than prudence might wish, as its Extent tends to Encrease our difficulties in Certain points, and to weaken our Government. It is also a consideration not unworthy of your Attention, that as we may become considerable in half a Century or in less, if we are under the necessity of connecting ourselves with the House of Bourbon, such a connexion, in that Event, may become important to Your West India possessions. On the other hand, connected with you, by strong ties of Commercial, perhaps of political, friendships, our naval Exertions, in future wars, may in your scale be greatly important; And decisive. These are my opinions, they are the sentiments, which I have long Entertained, on which I have acted, and I think them suited to the future welfare of both Countries. I am not sufficiently Authorized to say so, it is not in my department, but I am inclined to think a person will soon be sent to England to sound the disposition of Your Court upon it.
[Beckwith] Sir, I have mentioned to (see second) what would have been the Effect of Your Revenue Bill, had it passed in the form in which it appeared from Your Prints, with those discriminating clauses, which undoubtedly were levelled at us.… He requested My permission to communicate this to You, and I believe I may Conclude that this Conversation Arises from that source.
[Hamilton]   It does.

[Beckwith]   I thought it consistent with the spirit of that communication, not to with hold it, notwithstanding the modification, which afterwards took place, although I Can give no opinion whatever, as to the Effects, which it may produce, under its present form, nor to the light in which we may view it at home, I speak very freely to You, but you will of course readily comprehend, that now, this is merely private conversation.
[Hamilton] Certainly, and in Your situation, mine cannot be Esteemed any thing more although I can assure you, that the ideas I have thrown out, may be depended upon, as the sentiments of the most Enlightened men in this Country, they are those of General Washington, I can Confidently assure You, as well as of a great majority in the Senate.
[Beckwith]   If I understand the Revenue and Tonnage Acts, You have placed us precisely upon the footing of every other foreign nation; during the discussion of this bill You doubtless took it into Your consideration, the condition of Your shipping in our Ports in Europe, and You would naturally compare it with that of other Foreign Shipping; you would then judge, whether we have been hostile to you, or not; now I beg leave to put a case, if, in consequence of Your late regulations, we should place you Exactly upon the footing of other foreigners in our ports, would it appear an unfair procedure?
[Hamilton]   Surely not, Every Nation has a clear right, as You remarked, to regulate its own Commerce.
[Beckwith]   An other thing strikes me. As the real views of communities, as well as of individuals, are rather to be gathered from their conduct than from their professions, it is not unnatural to suppose, that, prior to the Entering upon the discussion of a future Treaty we may think it reasonable to settle any matters, that may be supposed to respect the Treaty of Peace, still unadjusted.
[Hamilton]   Certainly, this is proper to both sides. There are two points only, that occur to me as being Complained of. The one, the Tender laws, and their Effects, I consider to be done away by the present Government, which has paid the most particular attention to this, in the formation and Establishment of its Judiciary branch; the District Courts will be in immediate operation, the supreme Court very shortly. The other regards the Confiscation Acts. I have seen the original Document, it was wholly recommendatory, and the Confiscations, that have taken place since the peace, have Arisen rather from mistakes, than intention, their Amount is comparatively nothing.
There has been I acknowledge a spirit of animosity, and rancour, in many instances, which I greatly condemn, but this, however uncreditable, I do not believe will amount to an infringement.
On our side there are Also two points still unadjusted, the Western Forts, And the Negroes, although, as to the latter I always decidedly approved Lord Dorchester’s conduct on that occasion, he could not do otherwise. To have given up these men to their Masters, after the assurances of protection held out to them, was impossible, and the Reply of Your Cabinet to our application on this subject was to me perfectly satisfactory.
[Beckwith]   You have mentioned its being your intention to send a person to learn our disposition upon Certain points; You are indubitably the proper judges of the qualifications and disposition of the gentleman to be Employed in the business. I beg leave however to suggest, how much such a measure may be promoted, or impeded, by the predilections, possibly by the prejudices, of an individual so circumstanced. If his mind should have any bias towards any other foreign power such bias might Althogether frustrate the objects of his mission.
[Hamilton]   Undoubtedy, we have not in some former instances been Exempt from this sort of inconvenience, to which the manner of naming to public appointments under our old government not a little contributed. The Case is now altered, these nominations originate with General Washington, who is a good judge of men, and the gentleman, to be Employed in this business, is perfectly master of the subject, and if he leans in his bias towards any foreign Country, it is decidely to You.
[Beckwith]   As you have done me the honour of mentioning to me the turn of party, during Your late Sessions, I cannot avoid saying that I was much surprized to find amongst the gentlemen, who were so decidely hostile to us in their public conduct, the name of a Man, from whose Character for good sense, and other qualifications, I should have been led to Expect a very different conduct.
[Hamilton]   You mean Mr. Maddison from Virginia. I confess I was likewise rather surprized at it, as well as that the only opposition to General Washington was from thence. The truth is, that although this gentleman is a clever man, he is very little Acquainted with the world. That he is Uncorrupted And incorruptible I have not a doubt; he has the same End in view that I have, And so have those gentlemen, who Act with him, but their mode of attaining it is very different. You have I take it for granted seen our Debates?
[Beckwith]   I have them, but have not read them, Your observation of the manner of attaining the object, You profess to have in view, leads me to remark, that I cannot think Commercial Hostility with us, the mode to obtain Commercial Friendship. From what I have heard You say with respect to Mr. Pitt, & to our Cabinet, You will not wonder when I tell you, that their plan has been Evidently to hold the Nation high, in the opinion of the world, and they have accomplished it. You Cannot suppose, that those who follow up such a system will be influenced by compulsory measures. Upon such minds their tendency must be diametrically opposite. The purposes of National glory are best Attained by a close adherence to National honour, alike prepared to meet foreign friendship, and to repel foreign hostility.
[Hamilton]   Beyond all doubt, these are sentiments, that do honour to any nation, and I make no scruple to say, that both before I came into office and since, I have acted under that impression. Whilst the Revenue and Tonnage Bills were under discussion, I was decidedly opposed to those discriminating Clauses, that were so warmly advocated by some gentlemen. I was at pains to obtain information from our mercantile body here upon this subject, who with a few Exceptions were against Every species of distinction, upon the principle that it would be productive of a War of Commerce. And in as far as I could judge by their Communications, there are Certain indulgencies, which our shipping Enjoy, in Your ports in Europe. If the Effect of our regulations determines you to place us precisely on the footing of all other foreign powers, we have not from that measure the smallest ground for Complaint, nor, as it appears to me would the Alteration be very momentous to us. I Cannot recollect that there is Any thing in the Impost Act, which marks a preference to Any other Foreign Power, when put into Competition with You, possibly some very trifling difference between French brandies and your West India spirits.
[Beckwith]   I think I clearly comprehend the scope of the Communication, that you have been pleased to make to me. Pray what use do you wish me to make of it? Is it with the view of my mentioning it to Lord Dorchester?
[Hamilton]   Yes, And by Lord Dorchester to Your Ministry, in whatever Manner His Lordship shall judge proper; but I should not chuse to have this go any further in America.
[Beckwith]   I am desirous to Know Your intentions Accurately upon this particular point, as you are the Judge of the Extent of Your Confidence.
[Hamilton]   This is very delicate in You, And I have been Anxious to hold this conversation with you from the opinion that I have always had of your Character, and from my conviction, that Lord Dorchester would not honour any man with his good opinion, and friendship, in whose integrity Every Confidence might not be placed.
If the present favourable occasion shall pass away, and a system of Commercial Warfare shall take place, it may lead to the adoption of an other idea, in the Contemplation of gentlemen, who are advocates for discrimination, and which did not respect a Tonnage, or Impost duties, but had in view a much stronger measure.
[Beckwith]   N. B. He did not say what it was, but I understood it to mean the idea of shutting their ports to our shipping, that might wish to clear out Either for our possessions in North America, or the West Indies, with lumber, provisions &ca.

[Beckwith]   I have understood that there has been some difficulty lately with respect to our Packet.
I hope it is settled?
[Hamilton]   The matter has been somewhat misrepresented. The fact was, the Collector of the Customs at this port had applied to me to Know in what light he was to Consider Your Packets, the Act passed by our Legislature during the summer having left that point unsettled. The law of nations Exempted Men of War from such duties undoubtedly, but it became requisite to know officially whether your Packet was a King’s ship, or not, and the result of the Inquiry has been that she was so, in every respect, that the Captain held a Commission under Your Admiralty Board, and was debarred from Commerce.
The Matter therefore is settled.
[Beckwith]   N.B. The French Government have reestablished packets to New York but they are Merchant Vessels, come out occasionally with goods and with certain allowances or carrying the letters or Government dispatches. These are therefore obliged to clear at the Custom house, and consequently subject to the Effects, both of the Impost and Tonnage Acts. They are small Vessels.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, October 1789
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, October, 1789. Acknowledges receipt of circular letter of October 2, 1789. Complains that method of filing returns requires so much clerical assistance that it imposes a very heavy financial burden on the collectors.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, October 1789
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] October, 1789. Acknowledges receipt of 150 ship registers.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Fitzgerald, [October 1789]
From: Fitzgerald, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Alexandria, Virginia, October, 1789]
Vessels built in our State for the Tobo. Business are generally constructed for the Stowage of that article & a Ship of 200 Tons ought to carry 400 Hogshead. Vessels of foreign Nations are not always so constructed as to stow in proportion which must depend in a great measure on the trade intended when they are framed but the English French Dutch & Scot[c]h Ships in generally carry in Proportion to their Tonnage, but not so much as Vessells calculated for that article in general the Ships which are best calculated to carry are most unfit for sailing.
II   A Ship carrying 400 Hhds may be built in France or England for about 3000£ Stg but in Virga. for 2000, this includes the Hull Rigging & apparel. The Hull can be had cheaper in this Country & part of the Materials as cheap but there will, for a time, be an expence on the importation of the other Necessary parts.
In answer to the 3d. Question. American Vessells are lasting in proportion as they are built from East to West, for instance a Vessell built in Nova Scotia will be inferior to one built of Timber equally prepared any where to the Southward of it & so increases untill you get to the Missisippi. There is one exception which has frequently happen’d of Vessells being built in Philada. N York &ca. of Live Oak & Cedar which are as lasting as the Vessells best built in Europe. This Timber is generally got from No. Carolina or to the Southward of it.
With respect to the European built Ships Those of France & England are constructed both to Sail & carry Spanish Ships nearly the Same The Holland built ones are entirely for Burthen & of course very dull Sailors. In point of duration they are all nearly the same when built of their own timber, but much of the American has been lately introduced in England & that too from the Eastward, which is injuryous to their Ships.
Ships in the Eastern parts of america may be, with great care, built to last perhaps 10 years, with equal care in the more southern States including New York 15 yrs. & in the Carolinas & Georgia perhaps double the time, but you’ll observe that in the latter the Live Oak & Cedar are the Growth of the Country whereas by a degree of expence this wood may be imported & used in any of the others which has frequently been the case.
The 4th Question is so seldom practis’d with respect to direct Voyages that a precise answer is difficult to be given, it has been more generally used in Voyages to Scotland as they have had factors here &


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tobias Lear, October 1789
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York] October, 1789. Transmits several letters relating to Samuel Caldwell.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sylvanus Bourne, 1 November 1789
From: Bourne, Sylvanus
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 1, 1789. Asks Hamilton to “Give me leave Dr Sir to request the favr of being in your remembrance should any situation in the Treasury Department occur in which my abilities may be equal to rendering my Country service.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Gaspard Joseph Amand Ducher, 1 November 1789
From: Ducher, Gaspard Joseph Amand
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Wilmington [North Carolina] 1er. 9bre 1789
Monsieur
je félicite très sincèrement les états unis de l’amérique d’avoir publius pour leur comptrôlleur général des finances; je vous prie de lui recommander un homme qui je Crois peut être employé utilement, le capitaine jocelin très connu de notre ami le Colonel Wadsworth qui vous donnera a son égard tous les renseignements que vour pouvez désirer.
je n’entends pas que publius soit tellement occupé des finances de I’amérique, que le Col. hamilton ne soit pas bientôt ambassadeur en france.
Ecrivez donc au marquis de lafayette et faites moi l’amitié de me répondre.
j’ai l’honneur d’être avec le plus sincère amitié   Monsieur   Votre très humble et très obéissant serviteur
Ducher


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, 2 November 1789
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, November 2, 1789. “The sum paid to the Bank for last month was 12,871 Dollars.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Jay, 2 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jay, John

Treasury Department November 2d. 1789.
Sir
I have the honor to enclose the copy of a letter which I have just received from Mr. Wolcott the auditor of the Treasury.
The information which he wishes to obtain being essential to the proper settlement of several accounts of considerable moment, as they affect both the character and interest of the United States; I request the favour of you, Sir, if there be any document in the office of the late department of foreign affairs, which are not to be found in the public proceedings of Congress, relating to the objects mentioned in Mr. Wolcott’s letter, to cause extracts to be made from them and furnished to me for the use of the Department of the Treasury.
I have the honor to be &c.
Alexander Hamilton.Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: Receipt from Van Horne and Clarkson, [2 November 1789]
From: Van Horne and Clarkson
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, November 2, 1789]
Received New york, November 2d. 1789 from Alexander Hamilton Esqr. Three hundred & Seventy dollars Sixty Six Cents for Passage of Mrs. Church & three Servants, on board the Ship Sandwich for Falmouth: John Harris Esq Commander.
Van Horne & Clarkson


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 2 November 1789
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Auditors Office New York Novr. 2d. 1789.
Sir
In examining the Accounts of Monsr. Le Ray de Chaumont with the United States, it appears to me to be important that the powers of the American Ministers and agents at the Court of versailles relative to procuring monies and supplies, and settling accounts on the part of the United States should be ascertained.
If these sentiments should receive your approbation, I beg leave to submit to your opinion the expediency of procuring such extracts from the instructions, which have from time to time been given to said Ministers and Agents, as may serve to elucidate this subject.
I have the honor to be &c.

Oliver Wolcott.
The honble. Alexander Hamilton Esqr.Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Lee, 3 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Charles

Treasury Department, November 3, 1789. “I observe by your Letter of the 11th. of October last, that the Registers for Vessells … had not come to hand.… Be kind Enough to inform me in your next, whether you have yet received them.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Israel Ludlow, 4 November 1789
From: Ludlow, Israel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[November 4, 1789. On May 13, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Ludlow: “Your letter of the 4th. of November … has some time since been received.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Wadsworth, 4 November 1789
From: Wadsworth, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Hartford, November 4, 1789. On November 8, 1789, Hamilton wrote to Wadsworth: “Mr Pomeroy has delivered me your Letter of the 4th Instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Wadsworth, 6 November 1789
From: Wadsworth, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Hartford, November 6, 1789. On November 12–14, 1789, Hamilton wrote to Wadsworth: “I am just favoured with your’s of the 6th instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Philemon Gatewood, 7 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Gatewood, Philemon

Treasury DepartmentNovr. 7th. 1789
Sir
I have duly received your letter of the 19th. of October.
I am of Opinion that the true construction of the act is, that the duties on the whole Cargo must be paid or secured in the first District at which a Vessel arrives; except where she puts in from necessity, as provided for by the twelfth Section of the Collection Bill. Consequently she cannot in any other case proceed with a part of her Cargo to another district, without having previously paid or secured the duties upon it, at the port of first arrival.

I am content that you provide one or two small boats for the use of the Inspectors in Harbour service; consulting aconomy as much as possible, and including the expence in your quarterly accounts. I doubt not one or more crusing boats will be found highly useful; but on this point nothing more can be done than prepare information for the legislature.
You say that an opinion obtains that the number of ports in your state will be conducive to smuggling I should be glad you would collect the opinions of well informed merchants and communicate them to me, together with your own (and the reasons for them) as to the number of ports which would be sufficient, and what ports ought to be preferred.
I am, Sir   Your huml. Servt.
Alex HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Rice, 7 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Rice, John

Treasury Department, November 7, 1789. “I am favord with your Letter of the 24th. Ultimo Enclosing your Weekly Return.… The mode you practise in taking Bonds to secure the Duties on Goods … is certainly proper.… The Harbour Boats you mention in your Letter of the 22d. I have no Objection to, but wish as soon as possible to have an Estimate of their Expence.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 7 November 1789
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, November 7, 1789. “With this letter, I inclose my Weekly return.… You will … greatly facilitate the Work and insure uniformity therein (I presume in every other Office as well as mine) if you will please to order printed forms to be furnished.… It may be consistent for me to mention that no appointments of Officers in the Department of the Customs reached this place before Saturday the 8th. of August at Night, and no qualifications were Authenticated until Monday the tenth, consequently no returns can commence in this Office at an earlier day. But it may be proper for you to know that between the last of July and the 8th. of August the Sum of £411.9.0 Curt. money, dollars @ 7/6. each for duties on Imports, was secured in the Naval Office at this port under the State Laws which were not then Superceeded by any known Law of Congress. The Naval Officer continuing to act after the 13 of August upon the same presumption that induced a continuance of the execution of State laws after the fourth of March. I mention these circumstances because I am about to close my official account with the State. The Legislature is now siting, and if you choose to claim those duties, under the constitution of the Genl Govt, some order may be taken in it by our genl. assembly. If you do not, I doubt whether the Merchants by whom they are payable will not protest against payment to the State. The state certainly had no right then to impose the duty and indeed, as Congress had no executive powers here at the time, many presume that the bonds are, void and that payment cannot be enforced. It is certain that in that period, Vessels arrived in some of the Ports of the Ustates and paid no duty on tonnage or Cargo.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Angelica Church, [8 November 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Church, Angelica

[New York, November 8, 1789]
My Dear Sister
After taking leave of you on board of the Packet, I hastened home to sooth and console your sister. I found her in bitter distress; though much recovered from the agony, in which she had been, by the kind cares of Mrs. Bruce and the Baron. After composing her by a flattering picture of your prospects for the voyage, and a strong infusion of hope, that she had not taken a last farewell of you; The Baron little Phillip and myself, with her consent, walked down to the Battery; where with aching hearts and anxious eyes we saw your vessel, in full sail, swiftly bearing our loved friend from our embraces. Imagine what we felt. We gazed, we sighed, we wept; and casting “many a lingering longing look behind” returned home to give scope to our sorrows, and mingle without restraint our tears and our regrets. The good Baron has more than ever rivetted himself in my affection: to observe his unaffected solicitude and see his old eyes brimful of sympathy had something in it that won my whole soul and filled me with more than usual complacency for human nature. Amiable Angelica! how much you are formed to endear yourself to every good heart! How deeply you have rooted yourself in the affections of your friends on this side the Atlantic! Some of us are and must continue inconsolable for your absence.
Betsey and myself make you the last theme of our conversation at night and the first in the morning. We talk of you; we praise you and we pray for you. We dwell with peculiar interest on the little incidents that preceded your departure. Precious and never to be forgotten scenes!
But let me check, My dear Sister, these effusions of regretful friendship. Why should I alloy the happiness that courts you in the bosom of your family by images that must wound your sensibility? It shall not be. However difficult, or little natural it is to me to suppress what the fulness of my heart would utter, the sacrifice shall be made to your ease and satisfaction.
I shall not fail to execute any commission you gave me nor neglect any of your charges. Those particularly contained in your  letter by the Pilot, for which Betsey joins me in returning a thousand thanks, shall be observed in all their extent. Already have I addressed the consolation, I mentioned to you, to your Father. I have no doubt the arguments I have used with him will go far towards reconciling his mind to the unexpected step you took. I hope the inclosed letters may not be such as to give you pain. They arrived the day after you set sail.
I shall commit this letter to Betsey to add whatever her little affectionate heart may dictate. Kiss your children for me. Teach them to consider me as your and their father’s friend. I shall by the first direct opportunity begin a correspondence with Philip. I have serious designs upon his heart and I flatter myself I am not a bad marksman. Adieu Dear Angelica! Remember us always as you ought to do—Remember us as we shall you
Your ever Affect friend & brother

A Hamilton
New York November 8th. 1789


Title: Enclosure: Elizabeth Hamilton to Angelica Church, [8 November 1789]
From: Hamilton, Elizabeth
To: Church, Angelica

[New York, November 8, 1789]
My Very Dear beloved Angelica—I have seated my self to write to you, but my heart is so sadned by your Absence that it can scarsly dictate, my Eyes so filled with tears that I shall not be able to write you much but Remember Remember, my Dear sister of the Assurences of your returning to us, and do all you can to make your Absence short. Tell Mr. Church for me of the happiness he will give me, in bringing you to me, not to me alone but to fond parents sisters friends and to my Hamilton who has for you all the Affection of a fond own Brother. I can no more
Adieu Adieu.
E.H.
heaven protect you


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Wadsworth, 8 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

New York Novemr 8th. 1789
My Dear Sir
Mr Pomeroy has delivered me your Letter of the 4th Instant.
It is doubtless of very great consequence to break up the Gang you mention; and expence for that purpose ought not to be spared. As you are at the source of information, may I request you to undertake the management of the business, and to furnish whatever money may be requisite for pursuing it with effect, drewing upon me for the amount. You may also promise such reward for apprehending each of them as shall appear to you a Sufficient inducement; which I will pay, relying on a provision for reimbursement.
Mr. Pomeroy thinks the best plan will be to liberate Willard and let him go with some trusty persons to act as a decoy; giving out that he has escaped. I confess I Should expect that the event of this would be, that he would escape in good earnest, leaving us in the lurch.
Would it not be better to engage him to point out some fit person for the undertaking, on whose exertions he is willing to stake his own Life; telling him that if Crane can be taken by his means he will be pardonned and rewarded; otherwise he will suffer the extremities of the Law. As your Laws do not annex death to the crime in question, he may be given to understand, that he will be brought into this state for trial. But all is submitted to your judgment.
Crane appears to be the principal in the misshief. He is therefore the man to whom chiefly we ought to direct our attention, and for whom the chief reward must be offered. If taken, and any offence committed in this state can be traced, directions should be given to bring the Culprits in to this state
I remain   Dear sir   Your Obt hble servt
A Hamilton
The Honble Jeremiah Wadsworth EsqrHartford


Title: Enclosure: To Samuel Jones and Richard Harison, [9 November 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jones, Samuel,Harison, Richard

[New York, November 9, 1789]
The Secretary of the Treasury requests the opinion of Council on the following points, arising on the Act for Registering & Clearing Vessels regulating the Coasting Trade & for other purposes—
1st   By the 22d Section it is provided that every Vessel of Less than Twenty Tons shall procure a license from the Collector of the District to which she belongs purporting that such Vessel is exempt from clearing and entering for the term of one Year from the date thereof—

2d.   By the 23d Section it is provided, that every Vessel of the burthen of Twenty Tons or upwards (to be employed & qualified in the way therein specified) shall be entitled to receive a license to trade between the different Districts in the United States or to carry on the Bank or Whale Fishery for one Year.
3d   By the 31st Section there is an allowance in these words
“For every license to trade between the different districts of the United States or to carry on the Bank or Whale Fishery for one Year, fifty Cents”
Questions.
Is any Tonnage demandable on Vessels of less than Twenty Tons?
Is any fee demandable for the license directed to be given to such Vessels? if any, what?
By the 25 Section Coasters of Twenty Tons & upwards having certain articles on board and bound from one District to another are to exhibit two Manifests, one of which is to be sworn to before the Collector & Certified and returned by him with a permit to proceed to the place of Destination
By the 26th Section Vessels of the same description bound from a District in one State to a District in any other than an adjoining State (though having none but the goods of the growth or manufacture of the United States) are also to exhibit duplicate Manifests; one of which is in like manner to be Sworn to Certified and returned with a permit to proceed to the place of destination
By the 27th Section Vessels of the same description (having on board certain Articles only) arriving at one district from another in the same State or from a District in the next adjoining State are previous to unlading to deliver to the Collector or Surveyor at the port of arrival a Manifest of their Cargo which they are to Swear to and then receive from the Collector or Surveyor a permit to land or unload.
By the 28th Section Vessels of the same description in all other cases arriving at any Port within the United States are previous to unlading to deliver to the Collector or Surveyor at the Port of arrival the certified Manifest and permit to proceed to place of destination provided for in the 25 and 26 Sections—upon which the Collector or Surveyor is to grant the permit to land or unload.
By Section 31st. allowances are directed in these words

“For every entry of inward Cargo directed to be made in Conformity with the Act and for receiving of and qualifying to every Manifest of Vessels licensed to trade as aforesaid Sixty Cents.”
“For a permit to land Goods of Foreign growth or Manufacture Twenty Cents”
“For every permit to proceed to place of Destination 25 Cents” Note these are the only allowances which can have reference to the services specified in the foregoing Sections.
Questions.
What are the respective Allowances to which the Officers of the Customs are entitled for the several services Specified in those Sections ‘vizt’ the 25. 26. 27. & 28th?

A HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury
New York November 9, 1789

Samuel Jones
}
Esquires

Richard Harrison


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Alexander Macwhorter, 9 November 1789
From: Macwhorter, Alexander
To: Hamilton, Alexander

November 9, 1789. “Being informed that there are some offices under you and in your department which are not supplied with clerks, I take the liberty of addressing … to you in behalf of Mr. Samuel Beebee a citizen of New York and son in law of mine as a person I believe well qualified to be a clerk in some such place. He has been unfortunate in the sea trade during the war and since, and thereby exceedingly reduced in his circumstances.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jedediah Huntington, 11 November 1789
From: Huntington, Jedediah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New London, Connecticut, November 11, 1789. On November 24, 1787, Hamilton wrote to Huntington: “I acknowledge the receipt of your’s of the 11th. instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Wadsworth, [12–14 November 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wadsworth, Jeremiah

[New York, November 12–14, 1789]
November 12. 1789
The above is a copy of a letter transmitted you some days since. I am just favoured with your’s of the 6th instant; and have informed Mr. Butler of the train in which the business has been put and referred him to you. I did not think it adviseable to take arrangements with him here, as I could not be certain, but that in consequence of my letter you would commence operations. You will understand from the foregoing that the crime in question is punishable with death by our laws. If a better use therefore cannot be made of Willard and any offence committed in this state can be traced, it will be well to send him here to suffer his deserts. But the dread of it may possibly induce him to enter in earnest into measures; by which the detection and apprehension of more significant persons may be effected. I remain
Yr. friend & servant

A Hamilton
New York Nov 14. 1789

My last will inform you of Mrs. Church’s Departure for England. I shall not forget the bill you mention.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Morris, 13 November 1789
From: Morris, Robert
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia Novemr 13th. 1789
Dear sir
I had the pleasure to receive your favor of the 6th Instant, and should have replyed to the Contents by the last Mail, had not other Engagements prevented it. I always understood that if the Bank stock was to be replaced, I was to pay the Dividends, but as Interest must be allowed on the amount of the Warrants deposited, during the time that payment is delayed, I also understood that the payments to be made on those Warrants would be admitted as satisfactory in point of time both in replacing the Stock and discharging the dividends, therefore I made no other provision for this object. I do not know how productive the Impost may prove in other ports, but I am told it will exceed all expectation here, and consequently I expect that you will soon find yourself possessed of the means to discharge these Warrants, when the Dividends may be retained and the Stock replaced, but if you require payment of the Dividend sooner I will comply with your desire. Since my return to this City I could have disposed of some shares of Bank stock with little, if any loss, and I am from a full consideration of the matter, enclined to purchase the remainder of Mr Churchs Shares. My object is to obtain a Convenience to myself without suffering any loss, or exposing Mr Church or you to any disappointment. I therefore propose to your Consideration as follows.
I will take the whole of his Shares at par—Those which I have already received with the Dividends to be paid for out of the Deposited Warrants and securities now in your hands, and the sooner you can make that payment the better for all Parties.
The Shares now in your possession I will only call for as I can dispose of them, taking ten shares at a time, for the amount of which I will deposit in your hands Continental securities, say Loan office Certificates, Nourses Certificates, Final settlements, Facilities &ca. to the full value of the Shares as called for, computing the Certificates or Securities at the Market price, and these to remain in your hands untill I pay for the shares; for this payment, I ask as long time as you can give me, say twelve or Eighteen Months or longer if you please and I will pay the Bank Dividends on those Shares punctually as the Bank does, until the Cost is discharged. By this mode Mr Church will sell his stock, at the full value, without any charge of Commission Brokerage &ca. He will untill it is paid for be on the same footing as if no Sale had been made and ample Security will be in your hands, for you must be sensible, that the Value of these securities will rise as we proceed in making provision for discharging the annual Interest on them. It will not do to force the sale of Shares or it must be done at considerable Discount, but by the close attention I shall pay to this object I shall find means to place them gradually without loss, and by the time to be fixed for my Payments to you, I shall have the means of doing it with Convenience, but should any disappointments occur, then the deposited securities shall be sold rather than Mr Church shall suffer any disappointment; this however you may depend I will take care to prevent by my Payments.
I think this proposition rests upon such a solid Basis that it must meet your approbation, and if so, I will immediately send forward my note for four thousand Dollars, accompanied by a Sufficient Value of the Securities as a Deposit for that amount and you will send in return Ten Shares with a power for making the Transfer & by letter agree that I am to have the whole as fast as I make the deposits, for you must not be at liberty to part with any of them to others, or my Plan may be defeated by Competition in the sale.
I hope to hear from you soon in reply and that you will agree to this plan as it is calculated to serve all concerned & particularly
Dear sir   Your most obedient & humble Servant

Robt Morris
The Honble Alexr Hamilton Esqr New York


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Habersham, 14 November 1789
From: Habersham, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Savannah, November 14, 1789. “… In answer to your letter of the 1st. ultimo, I have to inform you, that the only public Convenience we have in this Port and Harbour, is a Light House on the Island of Tybee.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Willing, 14 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Willing, Thomas

[New York, November 14, 1789. On November 18, 1789, Willing wrote to Hamilton: “I have just received your Favor of the 14th Instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Mungo Mackay, 16 November 1789
From: Mackay, Mungo
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 16, 1789. “A very respectable Body of the Merchants of this Metropolis having thought proper to communicate to us, the Members of the Boston Marine Society, a Copy of their proposed application to the President of the United States on the subject of the Pilotage of this Bay & Harbour, accompanied by a request that the Society wou’d state the present defects of that Business with the Causes & Remedy thereof for the consideration of the President of the Union. And the Society having also before, had a Letter laid before them, addressed by you as Secretary of the Treasury ‘To the Wardens of the Port of Boston respecting the repairs of Light-Houses Beacons & Buoys’. We find ourselves compell’d by Motives of Publick Duty to observe to you Sir, that a Reform is necessary in the Pilotage, &c of this Harbour.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 16 November 1789
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, November 16, 1789. Encloses “Weekly return of receipts and payments to the 14th instant.” Asks if duties are to be calculated on the basis of a ship’s manifest.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jedediah Huntington, 17 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Treasury Department Novemr 17th 1789
Sir
I perceive by your Letter of the 4th instant that I misapprehended you in respect to the question referred to in Your Letter of the 26th of September. I thought it related to the going from one port to another to deliver the inward Cargo which certainly cannot be done without previously paying or securing the Duties at the first port. But there is clearly no color for the idea that foreign vessels are restricted to any particular ports as to their outward Cargo.
The Comptrollers distance from this place made it impracticable for him to be here ’till very lately. This has prevented the sending on a form for the bonds; and most of them have now been forwarded to this Office. Under these circumstances it is his desire that you transmit your bonds in such form as shall appear to you proper.
The boat you mention to have been procured by you was indispensable. I approve your caution in not allowing boats at Midleton and Stonington untill you shall be satisfied that they are really necessary. A general spirit of oeconomy is essential.
I am glad to find you think the provision of two such vessels as you describe would not be disagreeable to your merchants; as I feel a strong conviction that a certain number of cruising vessels will be found equally beneficial to the fair trader and to the Revenue
I remain   Sir   Your Obt servt

A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury
Jedediah Hunting Esqr Collector of the Customs for New London


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Lee, 17 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Charles

Treasury Department, November 17, 1789. “Several of the Officers of the different Ports within your State, have applied at this Office for Registers for Vessels. I find that there was a Delay in your receiving those which were forwarded to you.… As I presume however that all, which have been forwarded, have now come to hand, I am to request your Attention (if not already done) in distributing the same amongst the different Officers of the Customs within the State of Virginia.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Richard Harison and Samuel Jones, [18 November 1789]
From: Harison, Richard,Jones, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, November 18, 1789]
In Consequence of the Application of the ninth Instant made to us by the Secretary of the Treasury, we have considered the several Questions proposed upon the Act for registering & clearing of Vessels &ca. passed the 22d Day of last September, and are of Opinion
1. That Vessels of less than twenty Tons licenced as the Act directs, are exempt from Tonnage, because the Act having declared that they shall be at Liberty to trade without entring or clearing, the Duty of Tonnage, which is payable only upon the Entry of Vessels, can never arise.
2. We think that no Fee is demandable for the Licence directed to be given to such Vessels, because the Fee provided for Licences to Trade appears to be appropriated to the particular Description of Licences specified in the 23d. Section of the Act, which the Legislature seems to have cautiously distinguished from those directed to be given to smaller Vessels.
3. We are of Opinion that by the 25th & 26th Sections only the Fee of 25 Cents for a Permit to proceed to the Place of Destination is demandable—that by the 27th. Section the Collector is entitled to recieve only the Fee of Sixty Cents for the Services mentioned in the Act, and by the 28th. Section the Fee of twenty Cents for the Permit to land or unload where it comprehends foreign Goods.
We are aware that this Construction of the Act will involve a Consequence, probably not intended by the Legislature, to wit, that Vessels bound from one District to another in the same, or the next adjoining State with American Produce only will have higher Fees to pay, than those which come from a greater Distance and are loaded with foreign Goods. If therefore we could have found any other Construction of the Act, which would have been warranted by the Mode of Expression, we should readily have adopted it. But as we think that the Subject requires a strict Interpretation, as the Services are precisely designated for which the Fees are recievable, and it is expressly declared that no other or greater Fees shall be taken by the several Officers of the Customs, we suppose that no other Construction of the Act is admissible except the one which we have mentioned.
The Wisdom of the Legislature will, without Doubt, be exerted to remedy any Defects which may be found in their Laws, and it is better that Recourse should be had to them, than an arbitrary Latitude of Interpretation admitted.
N York 18 Novr. 1789


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Smith, 18 November 1789
From: Smith, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, November 18, 1789. “I have the honor to inclose you a Letter from the Boston Marine Society with a Letter for the President of the United States from the Merchants of Boston.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Madison, 19 November 1789
From: Madison, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Orange (Virginia) Novr. 19. 89
Dear Sir
I was too much indisposed for some time after the receipt of your favor of the 12 Octr. to comply with the request in it, and since my arrival here and recovery I have till now been without a conveyance to the post office.
The supplemental funds which at present occur to me as on the whole most eligible are 1. an excise on home distilleries. If the tax can be regulated by the size of the Still it will shun every objection that renders excises unpopular or vexatious. Such an experiment was made in Scotland; and as a Scotch tax I have not understood that the mode was disapproved. The complaint against it was founded on a comparison with the different mode established in the other part of the Kingdom, by which the burden was rendered disproportionate. 2. an augmentation of the duty on spirituous liquors imported. This will not only be compatible with the former, but in a manner required by it. 3. a land tax. This seems to be recommended by its simplicity, its certainty, its equity, and the cheapness of collecting it. It may be well also for the General Govt. to espouse this object before a preoccupancy by the States becomes an impediment. It is an essential branch of national revenue; and when once in the hands of the National Govt. the States will of course turn their attention to those miscellaneous objects which can be more easily managed by them than by Congress, and by which they can as they like equalize the burden on their respective Citizens. Some difficulty may perhaps arise from the different rules of assessment in the different States, but it will only require an adoption of their diversities until the way shall be prepared for uniformity. 4. a Stamp tax on proceedings in the federal Courts, as soon as experience shall have supplied the prerequisite information, and as far as will make the Establishment support itself.
I do not add a General Stamp tax, because with some it would be obnoxious to prejudices not yet worne out, because it could not be so framed as to fall in due proportion on the States without more information than can be speedily obtained, and because it would not for some time be productive in the State Courts, unless extended to suits for antecedent debts &c, in which case the debtors on whom the tax would fall, would make it a fresh topic of clamor.
The modification of the public debt is a subject on which I ought perhaps to be silent, having not enough revolved it to form any precise ideas. I take it to be the general expectation that the foreign part of the debt is to be put on the most satisfactory footing, and it will no doubt equally gratify the public wish, if it can by that means be turned into a debt bearing a reduced interest. The domestic part is well known to be viewed in different lights by different classes of people. It might be a soothing circumstance to those least favorably disposed, if by some operation the debt could be lessened by purchases made on public account; and particularly if any impression could be made on it by means of the Western lands. This last is a fund which, tho’ overrated by many is I think capable of aiding the redemption of the capital of the debt. A further reason for keeping the lands at market is that if the appetite for them be not regularly fed, it may produce licentious settlements, by which the value of the property will not only be lost, but the authority of the laws impaired.
I consider it as very desireable that the provision to be made should be such as will put the debt in a manifest course of extinguishment. There are respectable opinions I know in favor of prolonging if not, perpetuating it. But without entering into the general reasonings on that subject, there are two considerations which give a peculiarity to the case of the U. States—one, that such a policy is disrelished to a degree that will render heavier burdens for discharging the debt more acceptable than lighter ones not having that for their object—the other, that the debt however modified must, as soon as the interest is provided for, or the permanent views of the Govt. ascertained, slide into the hands of foreigners. As they have more money than the Americans, and less productive ways of laying it out, they can and will pretty generally buy out the Americans.
I need not apprize you that some of the ideas I have hazarded may proceed not only from an inaccurate view of the subject but from a mistake of local for general sentiments with regard to it. The less deserving however I may think them of being communicated to you the more they will prove by their being so, my unwillingness to disobey your commands.
With affect & regards I am My dear Sir   Your friend & servt
Js. Madison Jr
A. Hamilton Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 19 November 1789
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, November 19, 1789. Encloses for Samuel Meredith one thousand dollars in “the previous parts of the Notes mentioned in the within list.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Meletiah Jordan, 20 November 1789
From: Jordan, Meletiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Frenchman’s Bay [District of Maine] November 20, 1789. “Received yours of the 14th. of September this day.… I must inform you there is but one vessel belonging to this District that follows coasting, neither is there one that follows foreign trade. The vessels in this Port consist of fishing and as it is forbidden that no foreign vessel shall bring or land goods in this District you must conceive there is but little business for a Collector here at present. But the law does not deny foreigners to enter this District in ballast.… I should be very glad to know whether I can be allowed a Boat at the expense of the Revenue to tend at this Office as there may be a running of Goods which I must use every means to prevent.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 20 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury DepartmentNovember 20th. 1789
Sir
Inclosed are copies of two letters, one Circular to the several Collectors of your State, yourself excepted; the other to the Directors of the Bank of Massachusetts.
You will perceive the intimation I have given respecting yourself. It is my wish to have an eye on the spot to attend to the operations of the Bank, ⟨in order that the meas⟩ure now adopted may be continued ⟨or discontinued, as co⟩nsiderations of safety shall ⟨dictate. My own sit⟩uation with regard to Philadelphia and New York answers this end; but I am too far distant from Boston to have it in my power to pay the same attention there. This hint you will of course perceive to be confidential and designed only for yourself.
Should you therefore at any time perceive it to be unsafe to continue the receipt of the Notes of the Bank of Massachusets or to make that Bank the depository of the public Monies received in your State, I authorize you not only to discontinue the receipt yourself but as from me to countermand that receipt at, and also the proposed remittance of the Monies received, from, the other ports.
This discretion I confide in you from the intire confidence I have in your prudence and judgement.
I am Sir, Your Obedt. Servant
Benjamin Lincoln Esqr.Collector of the Customs for Boston, &ca.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Madison, [20–28 November 1789]
From: Madison, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[November 20–28, 1789]
Dr Sir
The bearer will deliver two of your books which have been some time in my hands. I add to them a pamphlet recd. not long since from France. I can not recommend it because I have not read it. The subject tho’ a hackneyed is an interesting one, and the titles of some of the chapters promising. You will soon discover how far it may be worth your perusal.
The inclosed letter to Genl. Schuyler requests the favor of him to make some enquiries relating to a man in his neighbourhood with whom Monroe had some dealings which concern me as well as himself. Be so good as to forward the letter by the conveyance you think best.
There is a young man here of the name of Reuben Burnley, who comes from Virga. with the accts. of that State agst. the U. States. His father, a neighbour of mine is anxious to get him into some of the offices as a Clerk, and has written pressingly to me on the subject. I mention the circumstance under the fullest impression of the multiplicity of similar applications which you must experience. Perhaps the Auditors office which will require a number of Clerks, may not yet be entirely filled. The young man is well recommended to me for his diligence fidelity and capacity.
Yrs. sincerely
Js. Madison Jr


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President and Directors of the Massachusetts Bank, 20 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President and Directors of the Massachusetts Bank

Treasury DepartmentNovemr 20th 1789
Sirs
Inclosed is a copy of instructions lately sent to the Collectors of the Several Ports in your State except that of Boston. I presume the object of it will be acceptable to you; as it must be Serviceable to the institution under your direction.
If as I take it for granted will be the case, the arrangement meets your approbation; I am to request you will concur in it by furnishing to each Collector the indications mentioned in the inclosed, to guard them against impositions by counterfeits; and will also direct your Cashier to give duplicate Receipts for each sum deposited, expressive of its being on account of the united States.
The Monies deposited are to be carried to the credit of the united States; and are to be paid upon his drafts as they Shall be presented; to cover which regular Warrants Shall from time to time issue.
It will also be necessary for my government that I Should have a weekly Return from the Bank of the receipts and payments on account of the united States: This I trust will not appear a matter of inconvenience
I have the honor to be with the greatest respect   Gentn   Your Obt Servant

A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury
The President & Directors of the Bank of Boston


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Collectors of the Customs in Massachusetts, 20 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Treasury Department
To:

Treasury Department Novr. 20th. 1789.
Sir
I have heretofore directed you to receive in payment of the duties the notes of the Banks of North America and New York. I now desire that you will also receive those of the Bank of Boston, and will exchange whatever specie you may at any time have in your hands for those notes. In order to guard you against Counterfeits in this instance, I shall request the Directors of that Bank to send you the signatures of the President and Cashier, together with a description of the marks of their notes.
You will also remit from time to time whatever money may come to your hands in Specie or the notes of the Bank of Boston to that Bank; taking duplicate receipts of its Cashier for each deposit, specifying that it is on account of the United States one of which you will transmit to the Treasurer and the other retain yourself. These receipts will discharge you at the Treasury for whatever sums you shall remit. It is my wish that whenever you have a sum amounting to one hundred dollars, over and above what may be requisite for current Expences, that you forward it by the first safe conveyance to the Bank. Your Weekly returns must specify your remittances.
These measures are intended to enable me as far as possible to avail the public of the revenues arising in your State without drawing the Specie out of it, by facilitating the negociation of drafts, for which there is rarely any demand except upon Boston: And they are to continue until you receive a Countermand from me or from Benjamin Lincoln Esqr Collector of the Port of Boston, through whom I may find it convenient to convey my instructions on this particular.
I am, Sir,   Your Obedt. Servt.
A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Tobias Lear, 21 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lear, Tobias

Treasury Department, November 21, 1789. “I have received the letter which you enclosed to me in yours of this date.… I shall pay due attention to the information it conveys.…”


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Governors of the States, 21 November 1789
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Governors of the States

Treasury Department Novembr 21st 1789
Sir
Not having received any acknowledgement of my Letter of the 26th Septr, transmitting the Copies of two resolutions of the house of Representatives of the 21st of the Same month; and conceiving the information which relates to the debts of the Several States, and the public securities of the union in their Treasuries, to be an object of a very important nature, I have the honor to inclose duplicates of my letter and of the resolutions accompanying it.
I can only add, that as the period fixed for the next meeting of Congress is hastening on, if any thing can be done to accelerate the transmission of the information desired, it will greatly promote the public service
I have the honor to be Your Excellency’s Obt & humble servt
A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sylvanus Bourne, [22 November 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Bourne, Sylvanus

[New York, November 22, 1789]
Sir
Your letter of November 1st duly came to hand as did your two former letters; though from the peculiarily of my situation, at one time, & my hurry at another, they were not acknowleged.
I did however, as Mr. Ames communicated to you, inform him, that nothing then was in my power. The same is the case now; and the rules I prescribe myself with regard to the future will only permit me to assure you that I shall bear your application in remembrance. Propriety requires that I should keep myself in a situation to weigh every circumstance at the moment & to act as shall then appear for the public interest
I remain with esteem   Sir   Your Obed ser
A Hamilton
New York Novr. 22d. 1789
Sil Bowen Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Davidson, 24 November 1789
From: Davidson, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Annapolis, November 24, 1789. On December 8, 1789, Hamilton wrote to Davidson: “I have duly received your letter of the 24th of November.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Gorham, 24 November 1789
From: Gorham, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[November 24, 1789. On December 8, 1789, Hamilton wrote to Gorham: “I am favored with your Letter of the 24th of last Month.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Grymes, 23 November 1789
From: Grymes, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Somerset, Virginianear Fredericke.Novr. 23th. 89
Dear Col.
I have to address you on an interestg subject to my self, and am happy that fortune has placed you in the station, to render your Country the service you will undoubtedly do her. I am to acquaint you that I am entitled to 1/6 of a Ship called the Aurora chartered 10 or 12 years past by Mr. Morris in behalf of the Country, Mr. Morris inform me he is likely to get his accts settled this winter when he shall obtain a Certificate for the owners, and has directed his clerk Mr. John Richards to purchase my claim and one other, as I wish to sell, I have to request of you to inform me by the first Stage the present value of such Certificates and what prospect there is of their appreciating. If Mr. Morris has not proceeded in settlement of his accts. as far as I am interested, pray inform me when you expect he will and if he has what you would advise me to take for my proportion.
I had a letter from your old fd. Meade two days past he has just had another Son which gave him two Sons & as many daugts and all well. The Old Sec. live just opposite on the other side of the Potk has been long wedded but no children I have only five living and family all well my wife joins me heartily for your welfare and am yrs
sincerely
B Grymes


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jedediah Huntington, 24 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Treasury Department Novr. 24th. 1789.
Sir
I acknowledge the receipt of your’s of the 11th. instant.
The privileges allowed to Vessels under twenty Tons appear to me in the same light in which they do to you. I should be obliged by your ideas of the most proper arrangement with regard to that description of Vessels; as the thing is perhaps not without difficulties.
I have no doubt that the Importer must make entry, as well with regard to enumerated as non-enumerated articles.
I am, Sir,   Your Obedt. Servt.

A HamiltonSecy of the Treasy
Jedidiah Huntington Esqr.Collector of the Port of New-London.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Meletiah Jordan, 25 November 1789
From: Jordan, Meletiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Frenchman’s Bay, District of Maine, November 25, 1789. On December 24, 1789, Jordan wrote to Hamilton: “I wrote you the … 25th of November last.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Timothy Pickering, 25 November 1789
From: Pickering, Timothy
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philaa. Novr. 25th. 1789.
Sir
I have this day recd. your letter of the 19th. instant. It is in some sort anticipated by mine of last week. But the inclosed letter to Mr. Peter Anspach is to request him with Mr. Wolfe’s assistance to present you with a statement of the debts intended to have been provided for by the anticipation you mention, & which yet remain unsatisfied. The documents are in his hand. I remarked in my former letter, that their accuracy & fidelity might be relied on. If however you deem it more proper that the statement should have my signature annexed, Mr. Anspach will transmit it to me for that purpose.
I suppose that many debts which were to have been paid in specie, have been settled with certificates by the state Commissioners—the claimants rather choosing something in hand than wait for cash at an uncertain & perhaps distant period. Mr. Anspach will comprehend in his statement no debts but such as were promised to be discharged with cash, & which he knows remain due.
T.P.
To A Hamilton Esqr.Secy. of the Treay.


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Collectors of the Customs, 25 November 1789
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Collectors of the Customs

Treasury Department Novr. 25th. 1789.
Sir
I request you to procure and send me without delay the revenue laws of your State in force immediately preceding the Act of Congress laying a duty on imports; as well those relating to imports as others: the whole being wanted for information. Should it not be practicable to obtain the Revenue laws distinct from the other laws of the State, you will be pleased to procure and forward the whole, with all the dispatch possible.
I am, Sir, Your obedt. Servt.
A. HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 25 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Treasury Department Novemr 25th 1789
Sir
The last post brought me your letter of the 14th instant. The bill you inclosed will be presented by Mr Meredith for payment.
Having drawn upon you for nearly all the Specie in your hands, I should have directed it to be returned, did I not Suppose that this might produce inconvenience to the parties. You are too sensible of the necessity of conformity to general regulations to make it necessary to dwell on the propriety of avoiding occasions of Substituting bills to the mode of remittances prescribed. While I Say this I am not sure that it may not become adviseable hereafter to give some latitude in this respect.

With regard to your question respecting the registry of vessels, I am of opinion that you cannot register any vessel whose husband or acting owner does not usually reside at or near some port within your district.
I am not intirely without doubt as to the extent of the cases in which Surveyors may claim the fee of two thirds of a Dollar. I will examine the acts somewhat more accurately than I have leisure for at this time and will write you my opinion.
I remain Sir Your Obt servt

Alex HamiltonSecy of the Treasury
O H. Williams EsqrCollector for the Port of Baltimore


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Willing, 25 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Willing, Thomas

[New York, November 25, 1789. On November 30, 1789, Willing wrote to Hamilton: “Yours of the 25th did not reach me till yesterday noon.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 26 November 1789
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, November 26, 1789. Asks that a uniform ruling be made on “the propriety of measuring Foreign Vessels that have Registers.” Requests instructions on the levying of tonnage and import taxes on foreign ships that enter Portsmouth but also intend to call at other United States ports.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Robert Hanson Harrison, [27 November 1789]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Harrison, Robert Hanson

[New York, November 27, 1789]
My Dear Friend.
After having laboured with you in the common cause of America during the late war and having learnt your value, judge of the pleasure, I felt in the prospect of a reunion of efforts in the same cause for I consider the business of America’s happiness as yet to be done.
In proportion to that sentiment has been my disappointment at learning that you had declined a Seat on the Bench of the U. States. Cannot your determination, My Dr. Friend, be reconsidered?
One of your objections I think will be removed— I mean that which relates to the nature of the establishment. Many concur in opinion that its present form is inconvenient, if not impracticable. Should an alteration take place your other objection will also be removed, For you can then be nearly as much at home as you are now.
If it is possible, My Dr. Harrison, give yourself to us. We want men like you. They are rare in all times.
Adieu. Your affect. friend & obedt Sevt
A. Hamilton
N. York Nov. 27. 1789.
R. H. Harrison.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Mifflin, 27 November 1789
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, November 27, 1789. “… the Comptroller General of this State hath made considerable Progress in the Statement of the public Debts of Pennsylvania … and I … will … transmit to you in four weeks from this Date all the Information required.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tobias Lear, 28 November 1789
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

United States Novr. 28th. 1789.
Sir.
The President of the U States being very desirous that the several Accots. of those Articles which were furnished by directions of Saml. Osgood & William Duer Esqr. in pursuance of a resolution of both houses of Congress of the 15th. of April 1789. and deposited in the house provided for the President of the United States, for his use, should be settled & paid. He has therefore, directed me to inform you that it is his wish that the money appropriated to that purpose might be applied thereto as soon as may be; and that you should employ a competent person to examine & settle said Accounts, and previous to their being paid that the person so employed shou’d compare the Accounts rendered in, with the Articles actually in the house to prevent any abuse.
I have the honor to be   with perfect respect   Sir   Your most Obt. Servant
Tobias Lear.Secretary to the President US.
The Honorable The Secretary of the Treasury of the US


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Osgood, 28 November 1789
From: Osgood, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, November 28, 1789. Acknowledges Hamilton’s letter of November 16, 1789. Sends a detailed report on the present condition of the Post Office Department with suggestions for improving its efficiency and increasing postal revenue.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Beverley Randolph, 28 November 1789
From: Randolph, Beverley
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Richmond November 28th. 1789.
Sir,
Severe Indisposition prevented my answering your Favour of the 29th. of October, sooner than the present Moment. I now do myself the Honour to transmit an Abstract of the Public Debt of Virginia. No Funds have ever been established for the redemption of any part of the Principal, but the Legislature have heretofore made annual provision for the payment of the Interest. While the state possessed the right to lay duties on Goods imported, this was attended with no difficulty. It is impossible, at present to say whether the Funds which may be now established will be sufficiently productive to answer so large a demand, and it seems to be the general Opinion, that the Taxes, which are now levied upon the people, are fully equal to their Ability to pay. Two years ago, a small sum of money was set apart as a Sinking Fund. I have not thought it proper to forward a special statement of the Operation of this Fund as its effect has not been such as to produce any great diminution of the Principal of the Public Debt, and does not at all decrease the Annual Interest. I am &c.
Beverley Randolph.


Title: Enclosure: [Schedule of the Accounts of the Several States], [29 November 1789]
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Schedule of the accounts of the several States, stated upon the principles of the act of Congress of the 22d. of Nov: 1777. in such manner as to make them Creditors to the U States for a supposed excess of actual payments, beyond their proportions

Proportions of 500. as required by the Act of Congress of the 22d. of Nov. 1777.
Balances of Recs. and expenditures as stated by Comrs. of Accounts
Balances chd. as quotas of the several States
Credits on final settlemt. not transferable.

New Hampshire
20

24.

20.

4.

Massachusetts
82

100.

82.

18.
Rhode Island
10

10

10

–
Connecticut
60

61

60.

1.
New York
20

23.

20.

3.
New Jersey
27

40

27

13.
Pensylvania
62

150

62

88
Delaware
6

10

6

4
Maryland
52

60

52

8.
Virginia
80

82

80

2.
South Carolina
50

51

50

1.
North Carolina
25

25

25

–
Georgia
6

6

6

–

500

642

500

142.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the Boston Marine Society, 30 November 1789
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Boston Marine Society

[New York, November 30, 1789. On November 30, 1789, Hamilton wrote to William Smith: “I send you herewith a letter in answer to that … from your Society which I request may be presented.” Letter not found.]