Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Tillary, [January 1791]
From: Tillary, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, January, 1791]
Sir

I have several times within these few weeks been almost tempted to break in a Moment on your time to give you a hint of the present complexion of our City politics, & I believe I may add those which will soon become prevalent in our State. I should indeed be nothing solicitious about the little party Jugglings which prevail among us, if it did not appear to me, that the Head of Wild misrule in this City, seems disposed to fall in with a few of those other powerful Malcontents, in some of the Neighbouring States, with a view to disturb the operations & happiness of the Union.
I should intrude too long on your time devoted as it is at this moment to concerns of the greatest moment, were I to attempt to particularise the present combinations in our leading Men in this quarter. Strange unions have been brought about by our artful persevering Chieftain, by whose management & connivance we have lately had a Council of Appointment chosen by bargain, & hear of vacancies filled up by anticipation. Many who were Federalists sucked into his Excellencys Vortex, & the Chancellor’s family become one of the principal Satellites of this noxious planet. Hence it is that a blessed accession of strength will be added to the Senate of the U. States in the person of Col. A. Burr.
A Coalition of Interests from different principles produced his Election. He is avowedly your Enemy, & stands pledged to his party, for a reign of Vindictive declamation against your measures. The Chancellor hates, & would destroy you. Nay so incautious was he at a public Masonic Dinner last St Johns Day that he declared himself to me without any Stipulation of Secrecy, that he was not only opposed to your Funding System, but that R. Morris & several other well informed Influential Characters, viewed it as a system of public injustice. From a mean sacrifice of sentiment & judgement made at the Shrine of power to serve personal purposes, I have serious fears, that this State will soon appear Conspicuous for its opposition to the Federal Government.
We have scarcely any sensible Independent Man in the Legislature who dare seize an occasion to rouse the reflection of the people, & not a Man in the City who has ventured to give such a sketch of the present Manouvres as would set the Citizens a thinking. We want a Head, to repress & keep down the machinations of our restless Demagogue, but alas where is he to be found? Duer never can prop the good old cause here. He is unfit as a Leader, & unpopular as a man, besides with all his address, he is duped by some Characters without ever suspecting it. Removed as you are far beyond the limited sphere of State Influence, you may possibly view with perfect indifference the paultry schemes of our present Coalitionists, & I sincerely wish that such may be your real sentiments concerning them. But if it should in some degree be otherwise, & if you still think the Ghost of Antifederalism that here & there is seen stalking abroad in different shapes, & in different States, may yet assume an animated form would it not be proper to alarm the people, against impending danger? It appears pretty clearly to me, that between those who hate the Government, & those who are jealous of & hate the principal persons who administer it, mischief is intended, & may be effected.
May I be permitted to hint that the presence of Genl Scuyler would revive a drooping party here, & rouse the people from a Lethargy which is at once degrading to themselves, & destructive of the Common Interests of the Country. Excuse these Disjointed reflections & allow me to subscribe myself with all respect and without the least variableness or shaddow of changing Your most faithful & hubl
James Tillary
I must presume (tho’ I have no information of that kind) that you are minutely informed of what passes here; and this Circumstance may in certain cases oblige you to make some reply. It is not my design by such a volunteer scrap as this, to detach your Ideas for a moment from far more weighty concerns, nor to lay a trap to catch Evidence of your politeness: But while I am honest in this declaration, I am equally so when I assure you that no man can be more pleased than I am, with whatever tends to your private happiness & public prosperity.
Long may you successfully fend off the Maddisons of the South & the Clintons of the North.
Good Night & God bless You

J.T.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, [13-31 December 1790]
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, December 13–31, 1790]
Sir
To save trouble & expence when the Wardens go on a Survey I generally agree to their appointment in behalf of the Office and although they are sworn ex Officio yet I always swear them in behalf of this Office according to Law. I inclose their survey & appraisement, deliverd to me in due time & ever since in my possession.
In respect to the lapse of time I imagined this business had been long since represented to you as appears by a note on one of my Returns. I have inquired of Mr Warder and he informs me the Teas are yet in being, and that as fair a valuation could now be made as in May or June. Underneath is a statement of this business as it rested with me, and on which Account I delayed putting the Bond in suit till your directions were had.
I am Sir &c.
S D


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, 13 January 1791
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] January 13. 1791
Dear Sir
I inclose you copies of the printed papers you desired: also a letter I recieved last night. This paper I will thank you to return by the bearer when you shall have perused it, as it is yet to be translated & communicated to the President. It is evident that this matter will become serious, & tho’ I am pointedly against admitting the French construction of the Treaty, yet I think it essential to cook up some favour which may ensure the continuance of the good dispositions they have towards us. A nation which takes one third of our tobacco, more than half our fish oil & two thirds of our fish, say one half of the amount of these great staples and a great deal of rice & from whom we take nothing in return but hard money to carry directly over & pour into the coffers of their enemies, such a customer, I say, deserves some menagemens. I would thank you sincerely to suggest any thing better than what I had thought of. I am Dear Sir   Yours affectionately & respectfully
Th. Jefferson
⟨Secretary of the Treasury⟩


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 1 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury DepartmentFebruary 1st. 1791.
Sir

The Trustees of the sinking fund have thought fit to commit to you the making of purchases of the public debt to the amount of fifty thousand Dollars pursuant to the Act making provision for the reduction of the public debt.
To enable you to execute this trust (which I doubt not you will chearfully undertake) I have directed the Treasurer to forward to you fifty thousand dollars in Notes of the bank of North America, payable to yourself on order. You will not only receive these particular notes on the terms heretofore prescribed, but you will exchange them for any specie which may at any time be in your hands, though a return may have been made of it to this office.
You will observe by the Act a copy of which accompanies this that the purchases are to be made openly and at the market price.
The first has been construed to mean that they are to be made by a known agent acting avowedly on behalf of the public. Other Circumstances have been considered as matters of discretion and accordingly have been varied. Sometimes the Treasurer (who has been charged with the business at the seat of Government) has gone to the Coffee house and purchased such as offered at the price of the day; at other times he has advertised for proposals and taken the lowest except where special reasons have recommended a small variation from that rule &ca. With these intimations the mode is left to your judgment.
By the market price has been understood the most common rate at which securities are sold at the time and place when and where the purchases are made. On this point it has been deemed most consistent with the general view of the act to be liberal, rather than to manifest a disposition unfavourable to the Creditor.

One of the objects of the Act is to raise the funds. And when it is considered, that every penny at which foreigners purchase our debt below its value is absolute loss to the Community, and that what is gained by the Government in its purchases is lost to the Citizens of whom they are made, it must appear, that there is a greater national Interest in the rise of the funds, than in the saving to the Government. Hence it has been deemed not expedient to act in a manner which should evince that the Government was not disposed to press the object of profit at the expence of the Creditor.
These hints can only serve to indicate to you the spirit with which the purchases heretofore made have been conducted. Their Application must be left to your discretion.
You will observe that the purchases are to be confined to the debt of the United States which cannot comprehend the State debt ‘till it has been subscribed and new certificates given for it.
You are also to keep an exact account of the disbursements and purchases made by you specifying the place where, the times when, the prices at which, and the parties of whom they are made.
The manner in which you shall dispose of the securities which you shall purchase shall be the subject of a future instruction.
I am sir   your obedient servant
Alexander Hamilton Secy of the Treasy

P.S. It has been suggested to me that Persons desirous of making Remittances to Philadelphia will be disposed to furnish specie for these Notes to facilitate their Remittance hither. You will be pleased to accommodate them with such exchanges when applied for.
Benjamin Lincoln Esq.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Lee, 2 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Charles

Treasury DepartmentFebruary 2d. 1791
Sir

I have made a remittance to William Heth Esq. Collector of Bermuda Hundred in Notes of the Bank of North America, made payable to him, which I request you to exchange for specie should any of them be offered by the holders. The Cash included in your returns as well as that received in the current week may be used for that purpose, if requisite.
I am Sir,   your obedient servant.
A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Arthur Fenner, 3 February 1791
From: Fenner, Arthur
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence Feby. 3 1791
Sir

Your letter of the 14th Jany. I recd. In February 1786 a Committee appointed by the Legislature of the State of Rhode Island settled the Accounts with the Agent for the Rhode Island line of the late Army. There appeared in his hands certificates to the amount of three thousand seven Dollars and seventy three Ninetieths which were delivered over and lodgd in the Treasury of this State to be deliverd to the absentees or their representatives when called for. Since their being lodged in the Treasury the greatest part I am informed have been deliverd either to the original Proprietors or their representatives. The exact amount (if any) remaining in the Treasury I cannot at present ascertain the Treasurer living at Newport. I have wrote him on the subject, and as soon as I receive his Answer shall forward to you the amount.
With sentiments of esteem your Obedient Friend
A Fenner Govr
S R
A Hamilton SecryTreasury U States


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Seton, 3 February 1791
From: Seton, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York 3d February 1791
Dear sir

The note you inclosed to Mr Troup for discount was immediately done & passd to your Credit. The dft to Mr. Francis has not yet appeared, but should have been punctually attended to & honored at all Events. Your present ballance in Bank including the discount is 2907 Dolls. & ⁴⁴⁄₁₀₀. Therefore the 3000 Dolls. dft will overrun 92. Do: ⁵⁶⁄₁₀₀ which I mention for your Government. The letters you entrusted to my Care relating to our Senator were duly delivered as you would find by the answer our friend D—— wrote you, but the point had been absolutely decided long before as the other party had been undermining for Months & the Coalition between the G—— & C—— secured the Election. All your friends here lamented it, foreseeing the impediments it would throw in your way. Some say he will act otherwise, but what is bad in the bone will appear in the flesh. I anticipate (tho’ no politician) great opposition to every salutary system.
The Goldsmiths inform me (contrary to your expectation & contrary to what would seem reasonable) that the Standard they mean in their Assays is British Standard, which is 11 parts fine Gold & 1 part alloy.
I am induced from motives of friendship to a very valuable Character, to take a liberty with you that I can scarcely justify to my own feelings considering our two situations, but friendship will sometimes lead a man beyond the bounds of discretion.
There is a Gentleman in business residing at Leghorn of the Name of Philip Feliechj who married in this City a Miss Cowper. A worthier or more respectable Character in the mercantile Line does not exist. (I have some faint idea that he is personally known to you). He has done a great deal of business with this Country & still continues to do it, is every way attached to it, & few men his Superiors in abilities. I conceive it would be of great advantage to my friend if he could get the appointment of Consul for The United States of America to Leghorn, or say the Duke of Tuscanys Dominions. I am convinced no man would do more honor to the appointment; perhaps it may be in your power to procure me this favour or to point out to me what path to pursue to obtain it. I hope you will pardon this liberty & believe me ever
Your devoted Hule Svt
Wm Seton

P.S. Of the last Bills on Amsterdam we have sold 81,000 Guilders, hope to run off the remainder of the 200,000 in a few days.
Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 5 February 1791
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Boston] February 5, 1791. “I wrote you 26 Ulto. This serves to inclose Duplicate Receipt for Certificates received from the Register dated 22d Jany 1791—also first receipt for Certificates dated 29th. Jany 1791. By this Post I transmitt to the Auditor an Abstract of Certificates Indents & Bills of Old Emission, recd into the Office in the Month of November last for which Certificates of the Funded Debt have been issued agreeably to the Act of Congress 4 August 1790.… The Loaning is so fast & the Transfers so many that I find myself unavoidable much behind hand in my returns & am very apprecencive that the month of April, when there is a universal expectation of Interest, will be upon me before it will be possible to get all the abstracts registered & the Book posted up, unless I have a sessation of business from abroad, longer then the fourteen days mentioned in your instructions. I think the whole month of March will be little enough to get the Books into a readiness to discharge the Interest by the first of April when I am sure of having a croud of applicants. Therefore unless I shall receive your orders to the contray, I propose to inform all applicants to Loan or to Transfer That no Certificates can be Loaned or Transfers made in the Month of March.… I have seen the Secrety of War’s advertisement that Pentions are to be paid at this Office in the month of March. If that should be the case it is an additional reason why Loaning & transfers should be suspended during that month. All which is humbly submitted to your opinion. Permitt me to express my earnest hopes That Congress will speedily make some provision for Clerks otherwise I cannot see how the public buisness can be carried on.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Isaac Sherman, 5 February 1791
From: Sherman, Isaac
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[February 5, 1791. On January 23, 1792, Sherman wrote to Hamilton: “… subsequent to my letter of 5th of February last.…” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 5 February 1791
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, February 5, 1791. “In compliance with the directions given in your Circular letter of the 20th. January 1790 I enclosed you the 18th. of February following a Statement of the emoluments of the officers of the Customs in this district for one year; but as that Statement was founded partly on Calculation it could not be accurate. I flattered myself however that such dependence could be had upon it, as would make Some impression on Such Committees of the Legislature as might have matters of that kind before them. I have now enclosed a precise accot. of those emoluments accruing in the Year 1790, which I beg you will please to make such use of as you conceive proper & which I hope will be productive of the end proposed in troubling you with it. In the early times of the Revolution it was not an uncommon thing to see Services performed without reward & fortunes Sacrificed to the great objects then in Contemplation. But at this period when necessity does not call for such Sacrifices, when a peaceful & happy establishment of government is effected & a fortunate System of Revenue established and improving, it will not be expected that those employed in the execution of the Laws will be left without an adequate support. The office to which I am attached requires constant and diligent attention. It has my exertions that it shall be executed according to Law. It will be needless for me to Say after refering you to the Statement enclosed that I am oblig’d to draw from other resources the greater part of my Support.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Short, 7 February 1791
From: Short, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Amsterdam. Feb. 7. 1791.
Sir

I had the honor of writing to you on the 25th. of last month by the English packet. This, inclosed to the Secretary of State, will be sent also by the way of England. I mentioned in my last what I repeat here for greater certainty. “1093.   450.   264.   1405.   224.   264.   1405.   319.   1065.   224.   239.   1210.   1340.   426.   1336.   839.   1590.   224.   531.   1388.   224.   708.   227.   527.   224.   564.   566.   1340.   426.   1336.   1568.   948.   540.   422.   1648.   1416.   1233.   1336.   1236.   607.   224.   64.   1683.   508.   1330.   1208.   1460.   137.”   —1413.   365.   294.   1000.   527.   1416.   1340.   176.   426.   1681.   1416.   1215.   763.   783.   224.   508.   1330.   1208.   1460.   224.   1357.   224.   1195.   1638.   1233.   115 1093.   168.   977.   1208.   105.   947.   1286.
I have lately recieved a letter from M. de Montmorin in which he informs me that at the request of Messrs. Schweizer &c. he had given instructions to M. Otto respecting that business, with which I have already made you acquainted. He sends me a copy of these instructions which I don’t doubt M. Otto will have already communicated. You will see by them the dispositions of the French ministry on this subject with which you will be perfectly satisfied, as every thing is rendered entirely subservient to the views of the President. I suppose it certain that the minister has no idea the plan proposed by Messrs. Schweizer &c. will be entered into.
I beg leave to refer you to my letter of this day to the Secretary of State for information respecting the change of duties on American oils imported into France. Opinions were much divided but a majority were for increasing to an excessive degree these duties, so far as related to American oils, & prohibiting entirely those of other countries. The Nantucket fishermen settled in France may be considered as the principal cause of this measure—others conspired also to effect it. I have no doubt however that as soon as the French shall have organised their government they will correct many errors into which the parties that now rage in the assembly, force them. Each decree may be considered as a resolution carried by storm in which of course there is much chance work. Until they change this manner of proceeding no regulations that they adopt with respect to themselves or others can be considered as permanent. The article of tobacco is now under their discussion. The opinions are divided between admitting it to be cultivated freely in France & imported subject to a duty & prohibiting the culture & confining its importation to a monopoly. It is impossible to conjecture which will predominate. Appearances vary daily with respect to it.
I have &ca
The Honble Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: Enclosure: Comte de Montmorin to Louis G. Otto, 9 January 1791
From: Montmorin, Comte de
To: Otto, Louis G.

Paris le  Janvier 1791

Je vous adresse, M, plusieurs piéces qui m’ont été envoyées par les Srs. Jeanneret et Schweizer, Banquiers à Paris; vous y verrez l’offre que ces particuliers ont faite de Se charger de l’emprunt que le Congrès a ouvert en hollande, principalement pour acquiter notre créance; vous verrez également la correspondance qu’ils ont suivie sur cet objet avec M. Short; les motifs qui ont déterminé ce dernier à ne pas accepter leur Soumission, et le parti qu’il doit avoir pris de demander les ordres du Président des Etat-unis.
Vous voudrez bien, M, entretenir M. Jefferson sur la proposition des Ms. Jeanneret et Schweitzer. Nous devons désirer naturellement, vû la position gênée de nos finances, qu’elle puisse entrer dans les vues de M. le Gnal Washington et qu’il se détermine à l’agréer: mais vous observerez que nous Subordonnons notre convenance à celle des Etats Unis, et que, si, ceque je ne saurois juger d’avance, l’opération proposée y est contraire, notre intention n’est point d’y insister. Lorsque l’on a voulu nous engager à transmettre notre créance à des étrangers, nous nous y sommes refusés de crainte de faire chose désagréable au congrès: le cas présent n’est pas le même, puisqu’il s’agit simplement de remplir un emprunt que cette assemblée à elle même décreté. Je recommande, M, cette affaire à votre Zêle et à votre prudence.
Je suis &a.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nathaniel Appleton, 8 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Appleton, Nathaniel

Treasury Department, February 8, 1791. Announces that Appleton has been selected by the President to pay “Pensions to Invalids for the space of one year.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 8 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury Department,February 8. 1791
Sir,

I received yesterday an application from Messrs. R & J Potter, Knox, Henderson & others, relative to the claim of additional duties on Goods ⅌ the ship Kitty from London. Having no statement of facts from your office, I am uncertain how far all those things, that may concern the rights of the United States, have occurred to the Applicants, & can, therefore, only give a conditional instruction to you.
It is proper in this & similar cases, that the concerned be requested to adduce all such testimony as you or they conceive to affect the question. If, on a careful examination into the facts, it shall appear that the vessel was within the United States (& if in this case the Ship Kitty shall be proved to have been within the Capes of Delaware bay) on the thirty first of Decemr last, I do not conceive that the additional duties can be lawfully demanded. The Goods, tho’ not entered will be to be considered as those brought into the United States, which is the language of the Act of Congress.
I must repeat to you, on this occasion, my wish that no application, in any case arising within your district, be made to the Treasury, with your knowledge, without a statement of facts from your office. Matters very interesting to the United States, & decisive upon questions, may often be overlooked, misconceived or omitted by the parties.
I am, sir,   Your Obedient Servant.
Alexander Hamilton
Sharp Delany esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Smith, 8 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Smith, Thomas

[Philadelphia, February 8, 1791. On February 14, 1791, Smith wrote to Hamilton: “I am honored with your favor of 8th Inst.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 8 February 1791
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, February 8, 1791. Explains apparent discrepancy in “last Weekly return of monies received and paid … from the 29th January to the 4. February 1791.” States that the “credit for Forfeitures” in “the preceeding return, to wit from the 22nd. to the 28 January … arises upon the Sales of two parcels of condemned Merchandize which ought to have been credited last year.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 9 February 1791
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, February 9, 1791. “As I understand all public papers must pass under cover to you, this incloses a duplicate receipt for Certificates received from the Registers and letter to the Auditor respecting cancelled Certifts & Indents forwarded to him by this Post.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Henry Marchant, 10 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Marchant, Henry

Treasury DepartmentFebruary 10. 1791.
Sir

You will find under this cover an act remitting the forfeiture in the case of the Schooner Fly, on the petition prefered to your court by Wm. Brightman.
This vessel being under thirty tons cannot be employed in the importation of goods from foreign ports. Nor can she pursue the coasting trade without the burden of the foreign tonnage duty. She may, however, with any papers that she may have brought in, export a cargo to some foreign place in which vessels of her size are enterable and may there be sold. It is not probable that the legislature will at any time put vessels, that shall be granted to their former owners, on a footing better than that on which they were before.
I am, Sir, very respectfully   Your obedt. servant
Alex Hamilton
The Honorable Henry Marchant Esq.District Judge of Rhode Island Newport.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Samuel Paterson, 10 February 1791
From: Paterson, Samuel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Edinr. 10 Feby. 1791
Respectd. Sir

When I wrote you formerly, It was Just when a Trunk was packing up for my freind Robt. Campbell Bookseller. My hasty Scrawll & Dr. Prices Pamphlet, in the way it was Sent, I hope youll Excuse. Their is No clean Copy of it to be got. At that Period I did not know that the inclosed State of the British Custom house Dutys &c. was published. Youll Notice this now Sent is by Authority of the British Government. Their is no other List of the Inland Taxes but that by Kearsly which is Said to be very exact. Youll receive along with these Two Vollumes of Sir John Sinclair upon the Revenue of Great Britain. He is a Member of the British House of Commons or Parliment.
I by no Means wish to engage your Most valuable time, by answering me, but I have to Sollicitt you upon an affair, that if it is not hurtfull, Very hurtfull to the Intrests of the United States, I know your own humanity will be a powerful Agent in My behalf. This will I find Make My letter longer then I intended, But it is Respected Sir On the footing that a Bystander will often Notice what reall Actors doe not discern. Nay Solomon, that Wise King, Says “that a fooll May teach a Wise man wisdom at a time”. I theirfore doe it with that deference, that becomes me when writing you on any affair belonging to the United States, and with a Sense of that Ignorance I must have at this distance of the true Intrests of America.

I beg to Sollicit you, in behalf of the Poor, hard wrought, half fed Inhabitants of Europe And would humbly propose, as they are Utterly unable to pay for a Passage to America, the only thing that Stopts thousands of them from Emigrating. I beg theirfore, that you would Imploy & use you Intrest to procure a Grant of Some Bounty or Relaxation of the Duties, to European Shipping bringing over Poor Industrious workmen to America.
Suppose the Tonnage Duty, upon Foreign Vessells Should be relaxed, to answer as a Bounty. Suppose for every 15 or 20 Passengers Brought from Europe the Vessell was to have an Exemption of the Tonnage Duty upon 100 or 130 Tons & So on. Nay not only that But as Passengers often want to goe to a Certain Port, Say Philadelphia for Instance, & the Owners of the Vessell want to bring a Cargo of Tobbacco from Virginia, The foreign Vessell or the Extent of Tonnage in proportion to the passengers she brought, Might be allowed without any duty to take in goods for the Port she designed to Load at. This or some other Plan is Neccessary to assist Emigrants from Europe to America, Journeymen of all Professions (a few of the fine arts exceptd) are unable ever to Collect or save out of their Wages, a Sum equall to paying their whole freight to America, From Greenock or Glasgow to America. It is Six Guineas for a Steerage Passenger.
It may be answered Why not grant, priviledges or Bounties to the American Bottoms, only for bringing over tradesmen? In answer I say its impossible for the American Ships, to Carry over emigrants from Europe So well as Foreign Ships. The Penalties & Forfeitures, are so very heavy & so easily incurred, that No person Unacquaint with the Laws durst Venture upon Such a Measure. But the European Captain & owners know how to agree with Passengers so as to Escape the Penalties. In Britain the Penalties are £500 Str. & 6 mo. imprisonment for every person Indented to goe out of the Kings Dominions, & I know not the Laws of Ireland, far less of any other Part of Europe, with regard to this.
I have hitherto only Mentioned the Poor of Britain but in other parts of Europe I am informed, their working people are in a Worse State, & less able to pay for their Passage to America. The Germans are a most Industrious people, the United States, would I hope be greatly benefeted by a Number of Germans imported every Year. I think the draining one part of Europe of these Industrious poor, that may be said to be able with every exertion they Can make only to be able to Keep Soull & Body together would have a Beneficiall effect upon the Treatment the poor would have in other Parts. No Doubt a few would goe also from Britain if encouragement was given, & I hope they would be found also Very industrious Subjects for here we are overstocked with people.
O Let the Name of the United States Rise high in the Annalls of Fame, by Extending her Bounties to enable the Industrious Poor of Europe to Sitt down on her fruitfull Soill, & be feed liberally by produce of her Lands. But as the Proverb says a Word to the wise is Enough.
I hope Respected Sir that filled with admiration of your Conduct, as Exhibited in Congressionall Register &c. youll pardon this freedom. My Zeall for the good of Mankind, & my Esteem for one who endeavours to Remove a Load of Debt from a Rising Nation of Free Men, have emboldened me to write this. Again I will Not trouble you Nor engross your Valuable time. If you knew the State of the Laborious Poor in Europe, as well as I, your own Compassion & humanity would not need to be desired to Remember them. by Respected Sir, Yr. Most hle Sert
Saml. Paterson

PS. A half penny or even a farthing, upon every pound of Tobbacco Exported from the United States, would not affect the Consumpt. & would be a good Fund for Bounties to Emigrants. If the United States Cannot impose it, the States that export Tobbacco Might by such a Tax, provide an Excellent fund for Publick Roads, Canalls &c. & the Sale would never be a Singlue pound less in Europe.
Many people here are of opinion, That the Prosperity & flourishing State of Britain, Is owing far more to the Establishment of Bank’s then to the Nationall Debt. Certain it is that Scotland alone owes allmost all its Improvement in Agriculture, Commerce & Manufactures to the Institution of Banks. Their Are about Fifty Banks in England and about Thirty Banks in Scotland, that Issue out Notes.

S. Paterson


Title: Report on the Petition of the Merchants of Philadelphia Trading to India and China, 10 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, February 10, 1791Communicated on February 10, 1791]
[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]

The Secretary of the Treasury in obedience to the order of the House of representatives of the twentieth day of January last referring to him the petition of the Merchants of Philadelphia trading to India and China;
Respectfully reports:
That the subject of the said petition involves the consideration of the general policy, which ought to be pursued by the United States, in relation to the trade with India and China; concerning which, questions of equal delicacy and importance arise, requiring a more careful and deliberate investigation, than can be performed consistently with the view of the House of Representatives, respecting the termination of their present Session.
That, under this impression, the Secretary, if permitted by the House, will defer a report on the said subject, generally, till the next Session of Congress, and will confine himself, for the present, to a particular article of the said trade, namely, Teas.
That it appears, upon enquiry, that considerable quantities of Bohea tea have been brought into the United States, from Europe, notwithstanding the additional duties laid upon that article, when so imported, by the laws heretofore passed: which have contributed both to overstock the market, and to reduce the price below the standard, at which it can be afforded, by the merchants trading to China; producing, consequently, a material discouragement to the trade with that country: in which the article of Bohea-tea is one of principal importance. As an additional and extensive field for the enterprize of our merchants and mariners, and as an additional outlet for the commodities of the country, the trade to India and China appears to lay claim to the patronage of the Government. And it’s proceedings hitherto have countenanced the expediency of granting that patronage; in pursuance of which principle, the fact, which has been stated, would seem to render it advisable for the present, that a farther duty should be laid on Bohea-tea, brought from Europe: Three Cents per pound, it is conceived, would be an adequate increase.
But to form a satisfactory judgment of the propriety, either of pursuing or extending the system of granting particular favors to the trade in question, it is necessary that a full and accurate examination should be had into the nature and tendency of that trade, in order to ascertain the extent, to which it may require, or be entitled to encouragement.
All which is humbly submitted.
Alexander Hamilton,Secretary of the Treasury
Treasury-Office,February, 10th. 1791.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Rodney, 10 February 1791
From: Rodney, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Poplar Grove [Delaware] Feby. 10th 1791.
Dr. Sir

It is very True that I was not an advocate for the Fedœral Government being adopted so soon altho I was very sensible of great defects in the Old confederation, Yet I was apprehensive it would be dangerous to Our Independance to attempt Changing that principle of Government which had conducted us Safe through the Revolution, because I was persuaded that the local attachment of The people to their State governments would prevent their consenting to a Regular & Uniform General government and that if a partial form was Established the peoples local attachment to their State government would operate Strongly against it so as to render its Operations weak & in Effectual. I find in both Instances my apprehensions well founded. The States have deligated great powers to Congress but have reserved Enough to them selves to keep up their Old local attachments and indeed to increase them. And we already see that the State legislatures of Virginia and Pensylvania are attempting to controle Congress in the Exercise of their Constitutional powers, and as the locale Attachments of the people will natural⟨ly⟩ incline them to Side with their State governments, ⟨such⟩ conduct however unconstitutional will have a Tendency to weaken the general Government; for no resolut⟨ion⟩ of the States unless agreed to by all the States ought to have any Controle on the General Government. The Fedœral powers being Established by all the States, cannot be constitutionally controled by any number of them less than all. Therefore Such conduct in the Seperate States Should have no Other weight with the general Legislature than as Counsels Advising them to Consider the Subject, they Object to, with the greatest wisdom and impartiallity always giving, in their results, the general welfare of all the States the preference.
Since all the States have adopted the Fedœral Constitution and it is now the Only existing principle of Union, The same reasons that induced me to be against it now induces me as Strongly to support and maintain it. Being a firm Unalterable friend to the Revolution; and believing that the Union of the States is the Only thing that can secure their Independance for a long time; I consider every measure that Indangers this Union as Adverse to the Welfare of America. Therefore I was against the Fedœral Constitution on Account of the danger of its having this Effect, but Since it has become the only principle of Union it is plain that the same reason induces me to be a firm friend to it. And Certainly every friend to the Liberty and Independance of America ought to consider the Subject in this point of view. The Opinion and information of the Several States would Certainty be of great use to the general government if Communicated in a proper manner as advisce or Counsel but may have a very different Effect if Couched in Terms of Censure. The legislature of Pensylvania for Instance Might have advised Congress in the most friendly manner that they considered the Excise Law as prejudicial to the Liberties of the peoples & desiring them if posible to prefer Some other Subject of revenue that would answer their purpose less adverse to the private liberty and rights of Individuals and without pointing out what other Subject the legislature of the State prefered to the Excise. Such Counsel as this would Not be adverse to; but useful to the general government. There is no Law more adverse to the rights & liberty of a free people than excise Laws for however gentle they be in their Commencement it will be found that they Cannot be Executed without a great number of petty officers, and those Officers vested with powers greatly adverse to the Liberty and private rights of Individuals. I therefore as an Individual would prefer a Land Tax or poll Tax far before an Excise. Yet perhaps the great Councils of the nation may be induced by Sufficient considerations to think other wise. In England where the rights of Individuals are more respected and better secured by the Laws then ever they were in any other nation, they have long had excise Laws and altho the petty officers of excise are vested with frightful powers yet if we may Judge by the quiet Acquiessence of the people the Exercise of them are not So adverse to the people as the appearance of them Seem to indicate. Atho there is greater Objections to excise Laws than to Imports & duties on commerce yet there is the same reason in Support of them. It is difficult to draw Sufficient revenues from the pepole for the support of the government of a great nation by direct Taxation therefore it is found necessary to apply to Subjects that afford it by indirect Taxation, and upon this principle perhaps the Excise may be as necessary as the Impost. Yet in my Own Opinion direct Taxation is absolutely necessary in every government for this calls forth that information from Society which is necessary to direct the Government; And I am fully convinced that the annual Support of the Civil Government of every free State ought to be by direct Taxation; I mean the Annual support of all the Civil Officers of Government. This is without doubt an Essential principle in a free Government; How much further it might be prudent to pursue direct Taxation must always depend on the wisdom of the Legislature, and the information and Sentiments of the Community Which would naturally flow on that Subject; beside if direct Taxation was felt and carried as far as the people would Chuse to bare it according to the Exigences of the Nation; they would the more willingly submit afterwards to indirect Taxation, where more revenue was Necessary, and this in all probability is the True reason that indirect Taxation is so quietly Acquiessed to in England. It therefore appears advisable to Charge the Whole Support of Civil government on direct Taxation and if the people did not Chuse to bare more in this way, then they would naturally become Advocates for Indirect Taxation. I am therefore pursuaded that to propose a Direct Land Tax and Poll Tax for the Support of Civil government would Set the People right with respect to Taxation, for this would draw forth the True Sentiments of the people towards what kind of Taxation they would prefer, and for this reason every kind of Taxation ought to be pursued at the same Time because the Sentiments of the people would then plainly direct the Minister to those kinds where they would Chuse he should Seek the most revenue. A free people will always grumble at every Species of Taxation but nevertheless will always bare What appears Necessary to answer the purposes of government if wisely conducted.
I am Sir with great respect   your most Obedient
Thomas Rodney
Honble Alexandr. Hamilton Esqr.Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 10 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Treasury DepartmentFebruary 10th 1791.
Sir,

A petition from Mr John Hollins, of Baltimore, to the House of representatives has been refered to me on which I shall report that in my opinion the existing law admits of the relief desired by the petitioner. Annexed to the petition are legal Testimonies that the Schooner John was before the first of January 1791. within the Capes of Chessapeak bay, whence it follows that the Cargo on board her was “brought into the United States” before the expiration of the 31st December 1790. You will therefore only claim from Mr. Hollins the duties imposed by the impost Act of the first of June 1789.
I am sir   Your Obedient Servant
Alexander Hamilton
Otho. H. Williams Esquire


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to ———, 11 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Treasury DepartmentFebruary 11. 1791
Sir

The Treasurer has been directed to draw in favour of the Commissioner of Loans for your State in order to the payment of the Pensions to Invalids which will become payable the fifth of March next. His drafts however will not in the first instance be directed to any particular Collector; but will be transmitted with blanks to be filled up by the Commissioner. This is mentioned lest the manner of the Direction should occasion suspicion of Counterfeit. Such as may be presented to you you will of course pay with whatever money may be in your hands.
In order that the Commissioner may know how to address the bills it is requisite that you should inform him immediately on the receipt of this of the Specie in your hands and of the sums which you may receive from time to time ‘till the end is answered. This being a matter in which humanity is concerned I shall be glad that there may be as little delay as possible.
I am, Sir,   Your Obedt. servant
Alexander Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Habersham, 11 February 1791
From: Habersham, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[February 11, 1791. In a letter to Hamilton, dated May 20, 1791, Habersham referred to “my letter of the 11th. of February last.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, 11 February 1791
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, February 11, 1791. Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Edmund Randolph, 12 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Randolph, Edmund

[Philadelphia, February 12, 1791. In a letter dated February, 1791, Randolph referred to Hamilton’s “letter of February, 12th: 1791.” Letter not found.]


Title: Report on the Petition of John Hollins, 12 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Treasury Department; February 12th: 1791.[Communicated on February 12, 1791]
[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]

The Secretary of the Treasury, in obedience to the Order of the House of Representatives of the 4th Instant, relative to the petition of John Hollins, of the Town of Baltimore, Merchant,
Respectfully reports;
That after duly examining the late and existing laws imposing duties on goods imported into the United States, with a view to their application in the case, wherein the said John Hollins has sought relief, he is of opinion, that the additional duties, from which the petitioner prays to be exonerated, are not legally demandable from him, and that he has transmitted an explanatory instruction to the Collector of Baltimore. He, therefore, humbly submits to the House, the propriety of giving leave that the said petition be withdrawn.
All which is humbly submitted,
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 13 February 1791
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, February 13, 1791. “… I hope by next Post to be able to transmitt you the amount of the Certift of Funded Debt issued in the month of December & Jany last for your information tho’ I shall not be able to send a regular Abstract of the Same.”


Title: Election to American Philosophical Society, [14 February 1791]
From: American Philosophical Society
To:

[Philadelphia, February 14, 1791]

To all Persons to whom These Presents shall come,
Greeting.
The American Philosophical Society held at Philadelphia for promoting useful Knowledge, desirous of advancing the Interest of the Society by associating to themselves Men of distinguished Eminence, and of conferring Marks of their Esteem upon Persons of literary Merit, have Elected The Honourable Alexander Hamilton Secretary of the United States for the Department of the Treasury. a Member of the said Philosophical Society, hereby granting unto him all the Rights of Fellowship, with all the Liberties and Privileges thereunto belonging.
In Testimony whereof the said Society have caused the Seal of their Corporation to be annexed to this Certificate, and the same to be attested by the Names of the proper Officers this fourteenth Day of February in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Ninety One.

Attested
James Hutchinson
}
Secretaries
Davd. Rittenhouse

President

R. Patterson
John Ewing
}
Vice Presidents

Sam. Magaw
William Smith

Jono Williams
Th: Jefferson

Elected 21 January 1791.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Henry Marchant, 14 February 1791
From: Marchant, Henry
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Newport, Rhode Island, February 14, 1791. Encloses the petition of Hezekiah Usher and George Usher, captain and mate of the brigantine Ruth, who had been prosecuted for landing goods which they did not declare. States that the “said Hezh. Usher, Master of sd. Brige. is a young Man, twenty six years old, and, that this was first Voyage he was ever Captain, that the Mate, is but twenty three years old, and this was but the second Voyage he was ever Mate.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 14 February 1791
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, February 14, 1791. “The enclosed Letter to the Treasurer, covers the second Moieties (the first being transmitted the 10th. instant) of Two Bank Notes, amounting, ⅌ triplicate List herewith, to 127 Dollars.… I have … received your Letter of the 31st. Ulto., relative to the appointment of Mates to the Revenue Cutters. I have in view Two or Three Persons whom I could recommend as suitable for those births; and if, on conversing with them, I find they will accept thereof, you shall be made acquainted with their Names by the next Post.”


Title: Report on Compensation to the Commissioners of Loans, 14 February 1791
From:
To:

Treasury Department,February, 14. 1791.[Communicated on February 15, 1791]
[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]

The Secretary of the Treasury, in obedience to the Order of the House of Representatives, of the 13th. Ultimo, relative to compensation to the Commissioners of Loans for the extraordinary expenses, that may, in the first instance, be incurred by them in the execution of the Act making provision for the public debt;
Respectfully reports,
That as the allowances to the several Commissioners of loans must be considered, as intended to compensate them for their services, and for those expenditures only, which are ordinarily incident to the execution of their respective offices, it may be deemed reasonable and just, that they should be indemnified for all such extraordinary expenditures, as shall appear to have been necessarily incurred, in the first stages of the business.
That these extraordinary expenditures will consist of additional Stationary, and additional Clerk-hire.
That with regard to the first, as the quantity of Stationary, which will be consumed in a common year, after the first will bear a very inconsiderable proportion, to that which will be necessarily provided and consumed during the first year, and as much additional labor and exertion, on the part of the Commissioners themselves, will be required, during the same period, it is humbly conceived, that it will be proper to reimburse those officers, for whatever expense they shall necessarily have incurred, in procuring Stationary for the use of the first year of their service.
That with regard to the second part, namely, additional Clerk-hire, it is presumable, from the rates of the compensations, that it was in contemplation of the Legislature, that some of the Commissioners would stand in need of Clerks, and that others of them would be able to perform the requisite services, themselves. The first Class may be supposed to include only the Commissioners of Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia; a Clerk to each of whom will, probably, be indispensable, at all times; perhaps, to some of them, more than one may be found so. If this supposition be well-founded, the rule for determining the extra-Clerk-hire may be, to consider, in this light, all that may have been necessarily paid by the several Commissioners, except the wages of one Clerk, by each of the Commissioners of Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
If these suggestions shall be appproved by the House, it will be proper, that provision should be made by law, for admitting to the credit of the several Commissioners of Loans, in the settlement of their respective accounts, all such sums as shall appear to have been necessarily expended by them in the purchase of stationary, and for the hire of Clerks, in relation to the execution of their offices, from the commencement of the same to the first day of October next, deducting the salary of one Clerk, in respect to each of the Commissioners of Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
All which is humbly submitted.
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Smith, 14 February 1791
From: Smith, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Loan Office [Philadelphia] Feby. 14th 1791
Sir,

This accompanys Abstract of Certificates Old Emissions & Indents received on subscriptions to the Loan proposed by act of Congress 4 Augt 1790 from the 1st to the 31st January inclusive.

The subscriptions are encreassing very fast, which with the payment of Indents to the Citizens of this State to enable them to possess themselves of their original Certificates in order to fund them; together with the great number of Transfers that are daily making encreases the business of this office to so great a degree that without great assistance whilst the pressure of business continues it must be much retarded if not greatly embarrassed. I am honored with your favor of 8th Inst. also with Genl. Knox’s of 9th with his Instructions & Warrant for the payment of the Invalids. I shall most chearfully execute that & every other duty in the power of
Sir your &c.
Honble Alex. Hamilton Secy. Treasy. U.S.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 14 February 1791
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore 14th February 1791
Sir

In answer to remarks of the Comptroller, on my account Current, ending the 30th September last, I have had occasion to reply at some length. There will not probably be any essential difference between the final Opinion of the Comptroller and my own, on the subjects of his remarks, unless it may be on a charge for the rent of a publick warehouse. On that subject I had the honour to address you in October last. In addition to what I have written to you, Sir, and to the Comptroller, permit me to remark that the want of a publick wharf, and Warehouse in this place, subjects the Officers of the Customs to very great inconvenience, and sometimes, even distress, in the execution of their duty.
For want of a publick landing place, particular places must be mentiond in the permits for landing, or Owners are exonerated, in some respect, from the penalty for removing goods without permission; and the weigher is occasionally to remove his scales from Wharf to Wharf, make use of others, or to subject importers to an extraordinary expence for retransportation of their Merchandise; and the Gauger is, in like manner, to go from place to place, to perform his duty. The Surveyor ⟨is⟩ necessarily much on board Vessels; the Connection however between that Officer and the Collector, and the reciprocal duties of the latter, and the Naval Officer, make it requisite that they should be often together. It is to be regretted that their several duties and Compensations are not more distinct. But in any case the having all their Offices in the same house, would be a very Considerable Convenience, as their Official documents ought reciprocally to check each other.
Inspectors are, in certain cases, Comptrollers of the Customs; they are together with the Collector, and Naval Officer, to examine and sign all manifests after delivery of the Cargos. And their duty on Other Occasions requires their attendance at the Custom House; which is a consideration in favour of a place both commodious and Convenient to the Harbour. The Measurer is, at this Port, an unnecessary Officer. There is no regular tide to bring into Port the inward bound Vessels, and they are often detained by contrary Winds, until multiplied to a fleet of a dozen, or more. If three, or four happen to have salt, and Coal, which is not uncommon, it becomes necessary to prevent delays, and expence to Importers, that more than One or two Measurers be apointed and more than one Cannot be reasonably rewarded for the service by all that is allowed by law for the measuring all the salt and Coal imported to this place.
Every vessel must be in charge of an Inspector, and a vessel having salt, or coal, only, must have a measurer also on board. Two Officers are therefore, in such Case, on board the same Vessel, and for the same purpose.
Inspectors are, in every respect, as well qualified for the service as the nature of it requires, and the quantity of Coal or Salt, or other thing, could certainly be as truely ascertained by an Inspector constantly employed, as by a Man occasionally appointed. The terms of the allowance to an Inspector, which is not to exceed One Dollar and One fourth ⅌ day for “every day he shall be employed in aid of the Customs.” implies that he may on some days be not employed. The nature of the service, in this District, where there are many ports, and landing places, requires that Inspectors should be constantly employed, and considering the manner of their creation, and conditions upon which they hold their appointments, I believe that to allow them fixed Sallaries, payable monthly, would be no less eligible on account of their industry, and integrity than the present plan: and might all things considered, be more to the advantage of the revenue.
Those considerations are not all perhaps strictly pertinent to the Subject upon which this letter was particularly intended, but if any of them afford you information you will excuse the trouble of them. My wish to see the department of the Customs upon an eligible and respectable establishment must be my apology.
I am   Sir Your most Obedient   Humble Servant
Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.Secretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Ellery, 15 February 1791
From: Ellery, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom House [Newport, Rhode Island]Feby. 15th 1791
Sir,

I received your letter of the 31st. of last month on the 12th of this. It will be impossible for me to give the names of persons of this State suitable for 1st. 2nd. & 3d. mates of the Cutter now building in Connecticut by this Post. I will do it the next.
When I sent forward a statement of the Cases of Hezekiah Usher & George Usher I was unacquainted with some circumstances which appeared on the examination of the Inspector of Bristol before the District Judge. I mean that upon his discovering the Hhd of Rum not mentioned in the Permit, and mentioning it to the Capt., the Capt. said it might be water, and that the said Rum, and the three bags of Coffee were unladed in the absence of the Inspector, that he had locked up the hatchways, and taken the key with him, and that when he returned he found the Hatchways had been open’d, and the Rum and Coffee stored. If these circumstances had been known to me at the time I wrote I should most certainly have mentioned them in the Statement.
Inclosed is a weekly return of Cash on hand; and also a List of one Bank note and of two Post notes of the bank of North America amounting to eighty dollars, Moieties of which are now transmitted to the Treasr. The other moieties of them were transmitted by the last Post.
I have the honour to be   Sir   Yr. most obedt. servt.
W Ellery Collr
Secry of the Treasy.of the U. States


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Cyrus Griffin, 15 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Griffin, Cyrus

[Philadelphia, February 15, 1791. “I am under the necessity of returning you the papers in the cases of Messrs. McRae and Morrison, which you will find enclosed. There is no legal proof that the goods have ever paid duty. The Collectors & Deputy Collectors of the customs are not vested with the general power of administring oaths. The Deposition of Mr. Fraser before the Deputy Collector of Baltimore however true it may be is not therefore legal testimony. The Deposition moreover should have been that the goods were the contents or part of the contents of certain specified packages under specified marks and Numbers imported in specified vessels the same on which the official documents shews the duties had been paid or secured, and should have been taken before a Magistrate or Judge authorized to administer Oaths. It is observable that the deposition and manifest given as it is presumed after the seizure do not say when the goods were shipt, and that there is no proof or statement of the time of said seizure.” Letter not found.]


Title: Reports on Exports for the Year Ending September 30, 1790, 15 February 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Treasury Department, Feb. 15, 1791.[Communicated on February 15, 1791]
[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]
Sir,

I do myself the honour to transmit thro’ you to the House of Representatives, a General Return of the Exports of the United States, abstracted from Custom-House Returns, commencing on the various days in August, 1789, whereon they were respectively opened, and ending on the 30th of September last. From inadvertence in some of those offices, the space of time prior to the 1st of October 1789, was blended with the quarter following, which prevented an uniform commencement of this abstract on that day; and there is yet a deficiency of many of the returns for the last quarter of the year 1790, which confines the abstract to the 30th of September last. The progress which was made in this form of statement of the exports, prior to the order of the house, and the impossibility of having it completed in the form directed by them before the fourth of March next, have occasioned me to offer it in its present shape.
I have the honour to be,   With the greatest respect,   Sir, your most obedient and   Most humble servant.
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury.
The Hon. the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 15 February 1791
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmouth New Hamp. Feb. 15th 1791
Sir

Your letter of the 23rd Ulto. I have received and in pursuance of your directions have agreed for the Hull of a Vessel for a Cutter for this Station of 44 feet Keel payable (say 46 Straight rabbet) 15 Beam & 6½ hold at 9 Dollars pr. Ton.
I could find no person on whom I could depend for a good Vessel that would undertake the whole equipments fit for Sea at 22½ Dollrs. per Ton, or indeed at any rate, it not being customary in this port ever to connect the Carpenters with all, or any other bills. I hope I shall be able to finish the Vessel at your limits but this must depend on the prices of Materials in the purchase of which no pains shall be spared in the exercise of the aconomy which you recommend. I found it of advantage in my agreement with the Carpenter to make him a payment of 100 Dollars.
It is the opinion of some sea men that a Sloop rigged Vessel would answer better the purpose than a Schr. If any directions on this point should be thought proper or if it may be left to the officer who is to command her, be pleased to direct me. The Vessel is to be delivered the 10th of May next.
I am Sir, very respectfully   your Most Obedt. servt.
Honble. Alex Hamilton Esqr.


Title: Conversation with George Beckwith, [16 February 1791]
From: Hamilton, Alexander,Beckwith, George
To:

[Philadelphia, February 16, 1791]
The Secretary of the TreasuryFebruary 16th.

Lt. Colonel Beckwith. The newspapers of yesterday and of this day mention communications to the two Houses, from The President, on the subject of a commercial treaty with us, and although no particulars are stated, yet enough is expressed to convey an impression to the public mind, that we are not disposed to form any such treaty.
I have in former conversations had the honor of declaring my sentiments with respect to Mr. Morris, I continue in the same way of thinking concerning this gentleman, I believe him to be a man of genius, of knowledge and of discernment, but like other men of strong faculties, I suspect him liable to be led away by his vivacity, to form tenacious opinions and to act upon them; I assume it as a fact, that the information laid before your Legislature, is founded on Mr. Morris’s communications, and as there have been no late arrivals from England, I am further led to conceive, that this information is not recent, and that it refers to accounts from thence, pending our negotiations with Spain; without pretending to more than an ordinary share of discernment, I am induced to consider the motives, which have led to such communications by your Executive at this period, in preference to a more early one, and to reflect on the public questions now before Congress, particularly the House of Representatives; I am carried to the following conclusions.
The measure either stands alone, or it is connected with others; if the latter, I find two which attract my observation; the Indian War—and an application from another Foreign Power; it is my duty and my wish to speak in terms of the highest respect of the Chief Magistrate of this country, as well as of the government itself, but I should be guilty of insincerity, if I did not declare, I cannot avoid suspecting, that this communication (tending as it does to convey an impression of there being a coldness in our Administration towards The States) has been made in order to influence gentlemen in a popular Assembly with ideas which may operate on other questions; whether this may have been the effect of accident or of design, I do not presume to determine.
Mr. _____ I have frequently mentioned to you that there was a difference of sentiment with us, respecting our having a strict national or commercial friendship with Great Britain, my opinions as I have told you, are directly in favor of it, because I think it for the best interests of this Country; your ideas of the communications from The President to the two Houses, being founded on Mr. Morris’s letters are natural and just, undoubtedly the information comes from this gentleman; he tells us, that there is a great diversity of opinion in your Cabinet on the subject of American commerce,  that he does not think a commercial treaty attainable unless it shall be formed or bottomed upon a treaty of Alliance offensive and defensive, and that on the most extended scale; but from his letters although the thing will not succeed without it, yet we have no assurances that it will be secured by it.
I told you on a former occasion, that we have no treaty whatever with France, but the printed one universally known, and whatever construction may be put on that treaty; we do not view it here, as binding us down to grant any peculiar advantages to that Power, to the exclusion of other Nations: there are indeed certain stipulations in favor of prizes in time of war, which are particularly expressed, but nothing on the former subject.
I cannot bring myself to believe that The President’s mind is the least influenced by any set of prejudices whatever; he indeed is of opinion from Mr. Morris’s letters, that no commercial treaty is attainable with England, but I am sure he is not led to make these communications to the Legislature at this time, from any idea of assimilating this with other questions, yet I do not pretend to say that such views may not have struck the minds of certain persons, who have recommended this measure; whether I personally approved of this business or not it is neither necessary, nor would it be proper in me to express.
It is difficult to speak with precision of what may be the determinations of a popular Assembly, but I am strongly inclined to think, no immediate warmth will arise from it, on the contrary; and in the Senate, I am sure, none will be effected.
In the present state of things, nothing has happened between us and France, to give a tolerable pretence, for breaking off our treaty of Alliance with that Power and immediately forming one with you. A regard for National decorum, puts such a decisive step as this, out of our reach, but I tell you candidly as an individual, that I think the formation of a treaty of commerce, would by degrees have led to this measure, which undoubtedly that Party with us, whose remaining animosities and French partialities influence their whole political conduct, regard with dissatisfaction.
Lt. Colonel Beckwith. It is essential to remark, that these communications are the opinions of Mr. Morris, formed whilst we were on the eve of a war; is it quite clear that this gentleman is really thoroughly acquainted with the intentions of our government? For my own part my instructions from Lord Dorchester authorise me to think and to say, that we have the most friendly dispositions towards the States, of which our liberality in Commercial matters is a decisive proof, notwithstanding the existing difficulties, relative to the treaty of peace; I know that gentlemen in a French interest, are not disposed to admit the force of this, as they do not view our commercial conduct in this light, but I am instructed to hold a different language on this subject.
I cannot help viewing the present communication as an attempt to check the growing friendship, evidently likely to take place between us, to prevent possibly a mutual ministerial appointment, and to give a bias to a French interest. Hitherto, I have thought it my duty to be silent on all political matters, and have shunned explanations even to gentlemen in your Legislature, but in the present moment, I should think it wrong to adhere to this, I feel myself compelled to speak out, and I wish to have my sentiments on this subject known, where they ought to be, for this reason I shall write you a letter on this important question, of which you may make what use you please, I shall state my sentiments candidly and I trust in a way not to give any offense to your government.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Newton, Junior, 16 February 1791
From: Newton, Thomas, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Norfolk [Virginia] February 16, 1791. Proposes that a “comfortable house” be built for the keeper of the Cape Henry lighthouse.


Title: Notes on Edmund Randolph’s Opinion on the Constitutionality of an Act to Establish a Bank, [16–21 February 1791]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, February 16–21, 1791]

Power to lay & Collect taxes

ascertain subject of taxation

declare Quantum

prescribe mode of Collection
This an infinite chapter

ordain the manner of accounting
creation of districts & ports

of officers

duties powers & capacities

compensation

penalties

exemption

what places to be paid at

oaths

☞ in what to be paid

Drawback

Cutters

Mode of recovery

☞ Farming Revenue

Power to borrow Money

1 Stipulate a sum to be lent

2 An interest or no interest to be paid
consideration to be paid or performed including collaterateral conditions & inducement. Lottery Tickets

3 The time & manner of repayt. unless irredeemable

No Dutch Loans

1 exemption from taxes

2 from sequestration in time of war

3 mortgage of all lands

☞
Fund by way of security

this Fund may be vested in lenders & they may be made a Corporation

☞
Institute a lottery

Regulation of Trade with foreign Country
omissions

1 To prohibit foreigners or their commodity
prohibition of exports

2 to impose duties
regulate the characteristics & privileges of American Vessels

3 to subject them to custom house Regulation or

4 To grant them any exemp~ or privileges which policy may suggest
The manner in which they shall be navigated

The inspection of our Com~ with a view to exportation

Between the States
Bounties upon ships or goods

1 to establish the forms of com~ Intercourse
Internal trans of foreign goods

2 to preserve the prohibitions in the constitution
policies of Insurance

bills of exchange from

f Coun & between states

Salvage

light house pilots

ransom Contracts

☞ medium of exchange

With the Indians
☞ To erect trading Companies

1 To prohibit the Indians from coming into or trading with the U States

2 To admit them with or without restrictions

3 To prohibit Citizens from Trading with them or

4 To permit it with or without restrictions

Rules & Regulations concerning property

1 To exert an Owner over Territory & institute a Government therein

2 To exert ownership Over other property which may signify

3   1 personal property however acquired or

2   2 real property aptly denominated territory

But it cannot signify

1 Debts due from the U States

2 Nor money arising from the sources of Revenue. The disposal and regulation of money is the final cause for raising it


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Washington, 16 February 1791
From: Washington, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia Feby. 16th: 1791
Sir,

“An Act to incorporate the Subscribers to the Bank of the United States” is now before me for consideration.
The constitutionality of it is objected to. It therefore becomes more particularly my duty to examine the ground on wch. the objection is built. As a mean of investigation I have called upon the Attorney General of the United States in whose line it seemed more particularly to be for his official examination and opinion. His report is, that the Constitution does not warrant the Act. I then applied to the Secretary of State for his sentiments on this subject. These coincide with the Attorney General’s; and the reasons for their opinions having been submitted in writing, I now require, in like manner, yours on the validity & propriety of the above recited Act: and that you may know the points on which the Secretary of State and the Attorney-General dispute the constitutionality of the Act; and that I may be fully possessed of the Arguments for and against the measure before I express any opinion of my own, I give you an opportunity of examining & answering the objections contained in the enclosed papers. I require the return of them when your own sentiments are handed to me (which I wish may be as soon as is convenient); and further, that no copies of them be taken, as it is for my own satisfaction they have been called for.

Go: Washington
The Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 17 February 1791
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, February 17, 1791. “In conformity to your Letter of the 31st. of January I now beg leave to make Jeremiah Greenman and Daniel Bucklin Junr., both of this Town, as Persons well qualified to fill the stations of First and Second Mates onboard the Revenue Cutter building in Connecticut.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 23 February 1791
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, February 23, 1791. Acknowledges receipt of Hamilton’s letters of February 8 and 14, 1791. Will carry out instructions in those letters. Encloses “Duplicate rec’t for Certifts received from the Registers 12 instant & first receipt of Ditto rec’d 23 instant.” Will “inquire respecting the Sale of Bills on New York or Philadelphia.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Stephen Higginson, 23 February 1791
From: Higginson, Stephen
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, February 23, 1791. Wishes to obtain a position in the executive branch of the government, but will not accept a post that pays less than two thousand dollars. Congratulates Hamilton on the success of Hamilton’s “measures & projections.” Has heard that Hamilton plans “to establish deposits of Cash here & in york, at least, to exchange the Notes of the Proposed Bank.” Approves of this plan, for without it “the notes will never answer all the purposes of money, or be equal to those of our own Bank.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 23 February 1791
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, February 23, 1791. “Since my return I have attended to the subject matter of your letter of the 22nd ultimo. The Gentleman with whom I contracted for the Cutter being in this Town, he lives at Newbury-port. I have had a good opportunity thus early to review the whole proceeding and to know from him that he could not now alter his plan, that he would take her to himself, though he thought the loss to him would be three hundred dollars at the least.… On the whole he has concluded to finish the vessel, hopeing she will be received. If I was now to contract for a Vessel of fifty tons to be built in this Town, she would cost I am very confidant as much as this will finally cost us.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Lewis, [23 February 1791]
From: Lewis, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, February 23, 1791]

I am of opinion, that by the death of the Administratrix, the power which the husband had by his intermarriage acquired in her right, to intermeddle with the effects of the Intestate, immediately and without notice ceased; and that as the power was only in consequence of the marriage, and of but equal duration in point of time with it, it was incumbent on all Persons indebted to the Intestate to inform themselves whether she was alive or not before making payments to the Husband. I therefore think that in the case stated the Administrator de bonis non &c. is clearly entitled to a Settlement and Certificate.

Wm Lewis
Feb: 23rd. 1791


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [23 February 1791]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, February 23, 1791]

The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects to the President and sends him the opinion required which occupied him the greatest part of last night.
The Bill for extending the time of opening subscriptions passed yesterday unanimously to an order for engrossing.


Title: Introductory Note: Opinion on the Constitutionality of an Act to Establish a Bank, [23 February 1791]
From:
To:

There are at least eight manuscript versions of this famous document. One of these is an incomplete draft in Hamilton’s handwriting. The other seven are copies. The two versions that are printed below are the draft and that copy which it is assumed is the final version that was sent to George Washington.
The seven copies of this document are located as follows:
1. Copy, Mr. John R. Dillard, Philadelphia.
2. Copy, Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
3. LC, George Washington Papers, Library of Congress.
4. Copy, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress (subsequently referred to as the first copy in the Hamilton Papers).
5. Copy, Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress (subsequently referred to as the second copy in the Hamilton Papers).
6. Copy, Massachusetts Historical Society, Boston.
7. Copy, Columbia University Libraries.
It is impossible to determine with certainty which of the seven copies is closest to Hamilton’s original document or which of these copies—if, indeed, any of them—was sent to Washington. Nevertheless, most evidence points to the copy owned by Mr. Dillard. It is in Henry Kuhl’s handwriting (John C. Fitzpatrick in a note attached to this document mistakenly states that it is in Hamilton’s handwriting), and Kuhl was a clerk in the Treasury Department. In addition, aside from insignificant differences in punctuation, capitalization, and paragraphing, it is practically identical with Washington’s letter book copy, which, in turn, was undoubtedly copied from the version sent to the President.
Because of errors by the copyists these documents contain variations, and they can, therefore, be divided into three groups. The Dillard copy, the copy in the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, and the Washington letter book copy are essentially the same; the first copy in the Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress, and the copy in the Massachusetts Historical Society are essentially the same; and the second copy in the Hamilton Papers and the copy in the Columbia University Libraries are essentially the same. The version used by J. C. Hamilton (JCHWJohn C. Hamilton, ed., The Works of Alexander Hamilton (New York, 1851–1856)., IV, 104–38) and Lodge (HCLWHenry Cabot Lodge, ed., The Works of Alexander Hamilton (New York, 1904)., III, 445–93) is the second copy in the Hamilton Papers, Library of Congress.
Substantive notes have been made for the Dillard copy but not for the draft. For background to Hamilton’s “Opinion on the Constitutionality of an Act to Establish a Bank,” see Washington to H, February 16, 1791.