Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 24 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Sir
Treasury DepartmentMay 24th 1790

I have received a letter from the Surveyor of your district upon the subject of boats for the use of the officers of the Customs. I have thought it necessary to the more frugal and certain collection of the revenue to permit that boats might be purchased or built merely for harbor service, and to this, if you find it will be œconomical, or that it is necessary to ensure the faithful payment of the duties, I shall not object. Frugality in the building or purchase I shall rely on, and regularity & precision in furnishing the vouchers for their cost will be expected.
I am, Sir, with respect   Your obedient Servant
A HamiltonSecy of the Treasury Otho H Williams EsquireCollectorBaltimore


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Scott, 25 May 1790
From: Scott, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Chester, Maryland, May 25, 1790. On June 3, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Scott: “I have received your letter of the 25th Ulto.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 26 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Sir
Treasury DepartmentMay 26th. 1790

The preceding Circular letter of the 30th of March, having been refered to by the Comptroller of the Treasury, in a letter from him, to you dated yesterday, it is now sent forward, that you may comprehend his meaning; heretofore it has been omitted, on account of the arrangement made for the Loan with the Bank, you will find by the enclosed letter of the 20th Instant my intention that the money you will hereafter receive, shall be paid into the Bank of North America from time to time, and that the duplicate of the receipts with which they will furnish you, will afford here a sufficient basis for the issuing a Warrant to cover them.

I am   Sir   With respect your obedient Servant
A Hamilton Sharp Delany EsqrCollectorPhiladelphia


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President and Directors of the Bank of New York, 26 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President and Directors of the Bank of New York

Gentlemen
Treasury Department May 26th 1790.

Inclosed is a copy of a Letter lately Sent to the several Collectors of the Customs therein mentioned.
I presume the object of it will be agreeable to you, as it will be serviceable to the institution under your direction. I am to request that you will direct your cashier to give duplicate receipts for Such Sum deposited, expressive of its being on account of the united States.
The monies deposited are to be carried to the account of the Treasurer of the united States, and are to be paid upon his drafts as they Shall be presented.
It will be necessary for my government that I should have a weekly return from the Bank of the receipts & payments on account of the united States. This I trust will not appear a matter of inconvenience.
I have the honor to be Gentlemen   Your obedt Servt
A HamiltonSecy of the Treasy The President, Directors & Company of the Bank of New York


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to the President and Directors of the Bank of North America, 26 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: President and Directors of the Bank of North America

[New York, May 26, 1790. On May 29, 1790, the president and directors of the Bank of North America wrote to Hamilton: “We have reced your Letter of the 26th Inst.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 27 May 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, May 27, 1790. “Your circular letter of the 17th. instant on the importance of your receiving the earliest information when breaches of the revenue law should take place came to hand by the tuesday post.… About five weeks since information was given that two trunks of merchandise had been in the night landed from on board the Ship Neptune Capt James Scott from London. On search the two trunks were found in a barn in the north part of the town far distant from the Ship. Immediately on possessing the good we had them appraised that we might know whether their value did or did not exceed four hundred dollars. On finding that they were worth double that money, that they had not been entered, that they were landed in the night and without a permit we felt ourselves obliged to seize the Ship also and as the mate, the Captains Son, aided in landing the good we brought a suit against him for four hundred dollars which we suppose he forfeited in aiding others in landing the goods. After the Ship was libaled She was by order of the Judge appraised and bonds given for her value, Viz About three thousand six hundred & sixty dollars. We shall be able probably to prove that the good were taken out of the Ship & in a manner contrary to law & by the knowledge of the Captain. Her trial will be had the beginning of June.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 28 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department May 28th. 1790

The Secretary of the Treasury conceives it to be his duty most respectfully to represent to the President of the United states, that there are, in his judgment, objections of a very serious & weighty nature to the resolutions of the two houses of Congress of the twenty first instant, concerning certain arrears of pay due to the Officers and soldiers of the Lines of Virginia and North Carolina.
The third of those resolutions directs, that in cases where payment has not been made to the original Claimant in person, or to his representative, it shall be made to the original Claimant, or to such person or persons only, as shall produce a power of Attorney, duly attested by two Justices of the Peace of the County, in which such person or persons reside, authorising him or them to receive a certain specified sum.
By the Law of most, if not all the States, claims of this kind are in their nature assignable for valuable consideration; and the assignor may constitute the assignee, his attorney or agent, to receive the amount. The import of every such assignment is a Contract, express, or implied, on the part of the assignor, that the assignee shall receive the sum assigned to his own use. In making it, no precise form is necessary, but any instrument, competent to conveying with clearness & precision the sense of the parties, suffices; There is no need of the cooperation of any Justice of the Peace, or other Magistrate whatever.
The practice of the Treasury and of the public officers in other Departments, in the adjustment and satisfaction of Claims upon the united States, has uniformly corresponded with the rules of that Law.
A regulation therefore having a retrospective operation, and prescribing, with regard to past transactions, new and unknown requisites, by which the admission of Claims is to be guided, is an infraction of the rights of Individuals, acquired under preexisting Laws, and a contravention of the public faith, pledged by the course of public proceedings. It has consequently a tendency not less unfriendly to public credit, than to the security of property.
Such is the regulation contain’d in the resolution above referred to. It defeats all previous assignments not accompanied with a Power of Attorney attested by two Justices of the peace of the County where the assignor resides; a formality, which for obvious reasons cannot be presumed to have attended any of them, and which does not appear to have been observed, with respect to those, upon which applications for payment have hitherto been made.
It is to be remarked, that the assignee has no method of compelling the Assignor to perfect the transfer by a new instrument, in conformity to the rule prescribed; if even the existence of such a power, the execution of which would involve a legal controversy, could be a satisfactory cause for altering by a new Law that state of things, which antecedent law and usage had established between the parties.
It is perhaps, too questionable, whether an assignee, however equitable his pretensions were, could, under the operation of the provision, which has been recited, have any remedy whatever for the recovery of the money or value which he may have paid to the assignor. It is not certain, that a Legislative act, decreeing payment to a different person, would not be a legal bar; but if the existence of such a remedy were certain, it would be but a very inconclusive consideration. The assignment may have been a security for a precarious or desperate Debt, which security will be wrested from the assignee; or it may have been a composition between an insolvent Debtor and his Creditor, & the only resource of the latter; or the assignor may be absent and incapable either of benefiting by the provision, or of being called to an account: and in every Case the assignee would be left to the casualty of the ability of the assignor to repay; to the perplexity, trouble and expence of a suit at Law. In respect to the soldiers the presumption would be, in the greater number of cases, that the pursuit of redress would be worse than acquiescence in the loss. To vary the risks of parties; to supersede the contracts between them; to turn over a creditor; without his consent, from one Debtor to another; to take away a right to a specific thing leaving only the chance of a remedy for retribution are not less positive violations of property, than a direct confiscation.
It appears from the debates in the house of representatives, and it may be inferred from the nature of the proceeding, that a suggestion of fraud has been the occasion of it. Fraud is certainly a good objection to any Contract, and where it is properly ascertained, invalidates it. But the power of ascertaining it, is the peculiar province of the Judiciary Department. The principles of good Government conspire with those of Justice, to place it there. ’Tis there only, that such an investigation of the fact can be had, as ought to precede a decision, ’Tis there only, the parties can be heard and evidence on both sides produced; without which, surmise, must be substituted to Proof, and Conjecture to fact.
This, then, is the dilemma incident to Legislative interference. Either the legislature must erect itself into a Court of Justice and determine each case upon its own merits, after a full hearing of the allegations and proofs of the parties; or it must proceed upon vague suggestions, loose reports, or at best upon partial & problematical testimony, to condemn in the gross and in the dark, the fairest and most unexceptionable claims, as well as those which may happen to be fraudulent and exceptionable. The first wou’d be an usurpation of the Judiciary authority, the last is at variance with the rules of property, the dictates of Equity and the maxims of good government.
All admit the truth of these positions as general rules. But when a departure from it is advocated for any particular purpose, it is usually alledged that there are exceptions to it; that there are certain extraordinary cases, in which the public good demands & justifies an extraordinary interposition of the Legislature.
This Doctrine in relation to extraordinary cases is not to be denied; but it is highly important, that the nature of those cases shou’d be carefully distinguished.
It is evident that every such interposition, deviating from the usual course of Law and Justice, and infringing the established rules of property, which ought, as far as possible to be held sacred and inviolable, is an overleaping of the ordinary and regular bounds of Legislative discretion; and is in the nature of a resort to first principles. Nothing therefore but some urgent public necessity, some impending national Calamity, something that threatens direct and general mischief to the Society, for which there is no adequate redress in the established course of things, can, it is presumed, be a sufficient cause for the employment of so extraordinary a remedy. An accommodation to the interests of a small part of the Community, in a case of inconsiderable magnitude, on a national scale, cannot, in the judgment of the Secretary, be entitled to that character.
If partial inconveniencies and hardships occasion legislative interferences in private contracts, the intercourses of business become uncertain, the security of property is lessened, the confidence in Government destroyed or weakened.
The Constitution of the United states interdicts the States individually from passing any Law impairing the obligation of contracts. This, to the more enlightened part of the community was not one of the least recommendations of that Constitution. The too frequent intermeddlings of the state Legislatures, in relation to private contracts, were extensively felt and seriously lamented; and a Constitution which promised a preventative, was, by those who felt and thought in that manner, eagerly embrac’d. Precedents of similar interferences by the Legislature of the United states, cannot fail to alarm the same class of persons, and at the same time to diminish the respect of the state legislatures for the interdiction alluded to. The example of the national government in a matter of this kind may be expect’d to have a far more powerful influence, that the precepts of its Constitution.
The present case is that of a particular class of Men, highly meritorious indeed, but inconsiderable in point of numbers, and the whole of the property in question less than fifty thousand Dollars, which when distributed among those who are principally to be benefited by the regulation, does not exceed twenty five Dollars per man. The relief of the Individuals, who may have been subjects of imposition, in so limited a case, seems a very inadequate cause for a measure which breaks in upon those great principles, that constitute the foundations of property.
The eligibility of the measure is the more doubtful, as the Courts of Justice are competent to the relief, which it is the object of the resolutions to give, as far as the fact of Fraud, or imposition, or undue advantage can be substantiated. It is true that many of the Individuals would probably not be in a condition to seek that relief, from their own resources; but the aid of government may in this respect, be afforded in a way, which will be consistent with the established order of things. The Secretary, from the information communicated to him, believing it to be probable, that undue advantages had been taken, had conceived a plan for the purpose, of the following Kind; that measures shou’d be adopted for procuring the appointment of an Agent, or Attorney by the original Claimants, or if deceased, by their legal representatives; that payment of the money should be deferred, until this had been effected; that the amount of the sums due should then be placed in the hands of the proper Officer for the purpose of payment; that a demand should be made upon him on behalf of the original Claimants by their Agent; and as a like demand would of course be made by the assignees, that the parties should be informed that a legal adjudication was necessary to ascertain the validity of their respective pretentions; and that in this state of things, the attorney general should be directed either to prosecute or defend for the original Claimants, as should appear to him most likely to ensure Justice. A step of this kind appeared to the Secretary to be warranted and dictated as well by a due regard to the defenceless situation of the parties, who may have been prejudiced, as by considerations resulting from the propriety of discouraging similar practices.
It is with reluctance and pain, that the Secretary is induced to make this representation to the President. The respect which he entertains for the decisions of the two houses of Congress; the respect which is due to those movements of humanity, towards the supposed sufferers, and of indignation against those who are presumed to have taken an undue advantage; an unwillingness to present before the mind of the President, especially at the present juncture, considerations which may occasion perplexity or anxiety, concur in rendering the task peculiarly unwelcome: Yet the principles which appear to the Secretary to have been invaded, in this instance, are, in his estimation, of such fundamental consequence to the stability, character & success of the government, and at the same time so immediately interesting to the Department entrust’d to his care, that he feels himself irresistably impelled by a sense of Duty, as well to the Chief Magistrate, as to the Community, to made a full communication of his impressions & reflections.
He is sensible, that an inflexible adherence to the principles contended for must often have an air of rigor, and will sometimes be productive of particular inconveniencies. The general rules of property, & all those general rules which form the links of Society, frequently involve in their ordinary operation particular hardships and Injuries; yet the public order, and the general happiness require a steady conformity to them. It is perhaps always better, that partial evils should be submitted to, than that principles should be violated. In the infancy of our present government, peculiar strictness and circumspection are called for by the too numerous instances of relaxations, which in other quarters & on other occasions, have discredited our Public measures.
The secretary is not unaware of the delicacy of an opposition to the resolutions in question, by the President, shou’d his view of the subject coincide with that of the Secretary: Yet he begs leave on this point to remark, that such an opposition in a Case, in which a small part of the Community only is directly concerned, would be less likely to have disagreeable consequences, than in one which shou’d affect a very considerable portion of it: and the prevention of an ill precedent, if it be truly one, may prove a decisive obstacle to other cases of greater extent and magnitude and of a more critical tendency. If the objections are as solid as they appear to the Secretary, to be, he trusts, they cannot fail, with the sanction of the President, to engage the approbation, not only of the generality of considerate men, but of the community at large. And if momentary dissatisfaction should happen to exist in particular parts of the union, it is to be hoped, that it will be speedily removed by the measures which under the direction of the President, may be pursued for obtaining the same end in an unexceptionable mode, for the success of which the Secretary will not fail to exert his most zealous endeavours.
It is proper, that the President should be informed, that if objections should be made by him, they will, in all probability, be effectual, as the resolutions passed in the Senate with no greater majority than twelve to ten.
The Secretary feels an unreserved confidence in the Justice and magnanimity of the President, that whatever may be his view of the subject, he will at least impute the present representation to an earnest and anxious conviction, in the mind of the Secretary, of the truth and importance of the principles which he supports, & of the inauspicious tendency of the measure to which he objects, cooperating with a pure and ardent zeal for the public good, and for the honor & prosperity of the administration of the Chief Magistrate.
All which is humbly submitted
Alexr. HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 28 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department, May 28, 1790. Submits “five Contracts made by the superintendant of the Light house, piers &c on the river and Bay of Delaware” and recommends that these Contracts be approved.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Oliver Wolcott, Junior, 28 May 1790
From: Wolcott, Oliver, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Treasury DepartmentAuditors Office May 28th. 1790.
Sir

I have examined the papers which have been transmitted to me relative to the accounts of Messrs. Joseph Gardoqui & Sons, and am fully of opinion that the amount of their account being 10,057 Rs. vellon. 22 Mars. equal to five hundred and two dollars and eighty five Cents ought to be admitted to their credit. Indeed it appears that the whole of their charges except for 1920 Rials vellon have been already admitted by Thomas Barclay Esqr. Commissioner of foreign accounts, and are properly credited to them in his books.
It however appears that on the 8th. of October 1789, his Excellency James Gardoqui Esqr. was furnished by the late accountant of the Treasury with statements of other accounts between the public and Messrs. Gardoqui & Sons, relative to which certain explanations were judged to be necessary, and as I am informed he engaged to transmit to the Secretary of the Treasury, compleat transcripts of all their accounts with the public.
If it shall be judged proper that the settlement of this account should proceed without waiting for any explanations relative to other accounts, the business shall be compleated immediately. I have the honor to be with great respect, Sir, your obedient Servant.
Oliver Wolcott.
The Honble. Alexander Hamilton Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Jefferson, [29 May 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jefferson, Thomas

[New York, May 29, 1790]

Mr. Hamilton presents his respectful compliments to Mr. Jefferson and returns him the letter from Mr. Writtenhouse on the subject of Mr. Barton. As Mr. Bartons merit is well ascertained, if Mr. H_____ can be of service to him in any other way he will take pleasure in being so.
May 29


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tobias Lear, 29 May 1790
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York] May 29, 1790. “The President of the United States approves of the … Contracts … submitted to him by the Secretary of the Treasury.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from the President and Directors of the Bank of North America, 29 May 1790
From: President and Directors of the Bank of North America
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Bank of No. America [Philadelphia] May 29. 1790
Sir,

We have reced your Letter of the 26th. Int. together with a Copy of your Circular to the Collectors of Wilmington & Delaware, those of Burlington & Bridgetown in New Jersey, & to the Collector of this port; Directing them to pay into this Bank from time to time, the Monies which they may receive, and that they take Duplicate recets from our Cashier for all Such payments.

As this Arangement will probably conduce to the public convenience, will be serviceable to our Institution, & it is at the Same time perfectly with the line of our business you may attend on our pointed attention to your request in every particular. Whatever Monies we may receive under this Order, shall be passed to the Credit of the Treasurers Account, & his drafts regularly paid as they may appear.
As to the Weekly return of Such receipts and payments—Our Cashier will furnish you with it, closed up to any day in each Week, which you may please to Direct.
I have the honor to be Sir. For the President Directors & Co of the Bank of No America   Your Obdt Ser

Alex Hamilton Esqr Secy of the Treasury of the United States.
}
NY


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Short, 29 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Short, William

Treasury Department May 29th. 1790.
Sir

I am honored with your letters of the 28th & 30th, which did not come to my hands ’till the 27th instant.
The conduct you have prescribed to yourself in regard to the negociations concerning the Debt of the United States, appears to be very prudent and judicious, and such as will give the United States a convenient election of the measures to be pursued in future.
Previously to the receipt of your favour, I had written to the Commissioners upon the business of their letter of the 25th of January, a duplicate of which you were so good as to enclose to me. Considering their zeal, exertions and general deportment on former occasions as entitling them to the regard of Government, I wrote them in a manner corresponding with those impressions, yet so as to leave the United States at full liberty in their final determinations on the late transaction and particularly guarding against the ill consequences that would result from establishing a precedent of this nature. It is possible when our arrangements shall be completed, that the United States may find it convenient to confirm this transaction, but in the mean time it appeared most adviseable to treat it as I have mentioned.
I am to acknowlege my obligation to you for the return of the Vessels and Cargoes from the United States, that have arrived in the ports of France. It will be on many occasions a very useful document.
With cordial satisfaction, Sir, I reciprocate your congratulations on the late happy change in the situation of our Country, and I feel great pleasure in receiving information so authentic, that it has influenced favourably the dispositions of the European Nations. A prosecution of the same just and salutary principles, it may be reasonably hoped, will give permanency to our present advantages and secure a larger portion of those benefits, which the United States are qualified to produce.
I have the honor to be, with great respect Sir,   Your most obedt Servt.
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury
William Short EsquireChargé des affaires from the United states at the Court of France


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [29 May 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[New York, May 29, 1790]

The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects of the President of the United states and submits to his consideration some remarks on the Resolutions, which have passed the two Houses respecting the Lines of Virginia and North Carolina.
The Secretary has taken this method of communication as the one best calculated to place the subject under the eye of the President with least trouble to him. If any further explanation should be desired by the President, The Secretary will have the honor of waiting upon him, at any time it shall please him to appoint.
Saturday May 29th. 1790.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Webb, 29 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Webb, William

Treasury DepartmentMay 29th. 1790
Sir

Your Letter of the 18th May has been duly received, and I learn from it, that you have purchased a Boat “for the purpose of better securing the revenue”. I have in some instances on previous application permitted the purchase of open Boats for Harbour service, and it is possible, that it might not have appeared improper to extend this permission to the District of Bath. But as no application has been received from you, I find myself under the necessity of suspending any allowance of the Charge, untill I receive from you an explanation of the service, for which the Boat is required & a particular Account of the Cost with regular Vouchers for the several items.
I am Sir   Your Obedient Servant.
Alex Hamilton
Wm Webb EsquireCollector at Bath


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Jefferson, 31 May 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Treasury Department May 31st. 1790.
Sir

I have the honor to transmit you a copy of a communication from the Auditor, respecting the account of Messrs. Gardoqui, from which it appears that their balance of 10,057 Rials of vellon and 22 maravedies, equal to five hundred and two dollars, eighty five Cents, is admitted by him.
The promised explanations of the other accounts have not yet been transmitted to this office, but may be in the hands of Mr. Viar. Should that be the case, and should they clear up the uncertainties in the accounts to which they relate, the above balance will be discharged without hesitation. If however these explanations have not yet been received by Mr. Viar, and you find him solicitous for the balance abovementioned, I will take arrangements for its discharge.
I have the honor to be &c.
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 31 May 1790
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore, May 31, 1790. “I am favored with a letter of the 18 Ulte from Messrs Bertier & Company of Philadelphia owners of a part of the goods irregularly landed from on board the Ship Vanstophorst in which they inform me ‘that the kind and favorable letter they recd. last night from the honorable the Secretary of the Treasury gave them the greatest hopes that I would be pleased to deliver their goods in the manner the secretary writes it may be done.’ I … request, Sir, that you will be pleased to give me your decisive instructions in this business.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jonathan Dayton, 3 June 1790
From: Dayton, Jonathan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[June 3, 1790. On June 9, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Dayton: “I duly received your letter of the 3d. of June.” Letter not found.]


Title: Report on the Petition of Stephen Moore, 3 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Treasury-department. June 3d. 1790[Communicated on June 10, 1790]

[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]
On the petition of Stephen Moore of the State of North Carolina referred to the Secretary of the Treasury, by order of the House of Representatives, of the 4th. of May 1790;
The said Secretary respectfully reports:
That it is the opinion of the Secretary for the Department of War, that it is expedient and necessary that the United States should retain and occupy West-point, as a permanent Military post; the principal reasons for which opinion as stated by him in a report to Congress of the 31st. of July 1786, are as follow.
“That in case of an invasion of any of the middle or Eastern States by a marine power, the possession of Hudsons river would be an object of the highest importance, as well to the invader as to the United States.”

“That the reciprocal communication of the resources of the Eastern and middle States, so essential to a well-combined resistance, depends entirely on the possession of the said river by the United States.”
“That West-Point is of the most decisive importance to the defence of the said river, for the following reasons.”
“1st. The distance across the river is only about fourteen hundred feet, a less distance, by far, than at any other part.”
“2nd. The peculiar bend or turn of the river, forming almost a re-entering angle.”
“3d. The high banks on both sides of the river favorable for the construction of formidable batteries.”
“4th. The demonstrated practicability of fixing across the river, a chain or chains at a spot, where vessels in turning the point, invariably lose their rapidity, and, of course, their force, by which a chain at any other part of the river, would be liable to be broken.”
“These circumstances combined render the passage of hostile vessels by West-Point, impracticable.”
“That the fortifications of West point, and it’s dependencies, are extremely difficult to be invested and besieged. This circumstance, which greatly inhances the value of the place, arises from the broken and mountainous grounds and narrow passes, which surround the fortifications.”
“A regular siege of West point, properly garrisoned and furnished, would require a large army, vast warlike apparatus, and much time. The States, therefore, in it’s vicinity would have sufficient time to draw forth their utmost force for its relief.”
“That, however West point may be regarded by some persons as an interior place, yet the reverse is a fact, as may be proved by a slight consideration of the facility with which it can be approached by water. It is quite practicable for vessels coming in from sea, and arriving at Sandyhook, at the close of day, to reach West point before the next morning. The navigation of the river is known to be so bold, that the passage could be easily performed during the night.”
That the said Secretary of the Treasury, impressed with a persuasion that the said opinion is well founded, conceives it to be just and proper, that a purchase should be made on account of the United States, of so much of the tract of land, called West-point, as shall be necessary for the purpose contemplated; and this for the following reasons:
First. That where the public safety requires the permanent occupancy of the property of an individual for the public use, it is just that compensation should be made for it’s intire value, either by purchase with consent of parties, or by some equitable mode of appraisement. Temporary or periodical compensations, unless with the concurrence of the proprietor, are liable to this objection; that they oblige the individual to content himself with less than the full use or value of his property, by sale or otherwise, as his interest or necessities may require.
Secondly. These temporary compensations, for various obvious reasons, will be likely, in the end, to prove more expensive to the public, than an absolute purchase in the first instance.
Wherefore, the said Secretary is of opinion, that it will be advisable, that provision should be made by law, for the purchase of so much of the tract of land, called West point, as shall be judged requisite for the purpose of such fortifications and garrisons, as may be necessary for the defence of the same.
All which is humbly submitted
Alexander Hamilton,Secretary of the Treasury.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Scott, 3 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Scott, John

Treasury DepartmentJune 3d. 1790
Sir

I have received your letter of the 25th Ulto. and particularly notice the information on which you found your opinion, that a Boat would be useful in the prevention of frauds on the Revenue. On such representations heretofore I have consented & on the present case, I am willing to permit that an open Boat be purchased that will enable the Officers of the Customs to go on Board Vessels in your harbor, she may be also used to ply in your River, which is not of considerable length. A great object will be to obtain, as early as possible in each case the Manifest which the Captain of every Ship is bound by Law to furnish to the first Officer of the Customs who shall demand it. The Masters of the Vessels you mention to have come into the Mouth of Chester River and to have lain there “several days” whether they entered afterwards or went to Sea without entering were liable to the fine imposed by the 11th Section of the Collection Law. Such open violations of the Law, I trust will call forth your most particular attention & exertions.
In regard to the Waggons that come into your District tho’ they are not by the law obliged to produce Certificates of the entry of their goods, yet your vigilant observation of them will be useful & when you find or have sufficient cause to believe their Loads have been illicitly imported a seizure will be Justifiable. It will however be prudent not to take any step of that nature but upon good grounds.
In regard to the entry of small Vessels, if under Twenty Tons & licensed they are not obliged to enter in one District from another, as you will find is declared by Richard Harrison & Samuel Jones Esquires in the 1st part of their opinion annexed to my Circular letter of the 30th of November.
In a report I had lately the honor to make the Legislature on the Revenue System, I suggested among other things the propriety of reconsidering the compensations to the Officers, and I presume they will decide upon this Business in the Course of the present Session. Information will be given of their determination.
Regular Vouchers of the Cost of the Boat will be expected & I shall rely on all possible economy in procuring her.
I am   Sir   Your Obedient Servant
Alex Hamilton
John Scott EsquireCollectorChester Maryland


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Allibone, 6 June 1790
From: Allibone, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, June 6, 1790. Encloses “A Contract with Abraham Hargis as keeper of the light House” at Henlopen.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Davidson, 7 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Davidson, John

Treasury Department, June 7, 1790. “The case you State of the importers of Salt per the Ship Murcury, William Jessop, Master is very unfortunate. On considering the Circumstances of the Case however, & examining the Laws it does not appear that the Legislature have deposited any where the power of relieveing an importer, who has met with a disaster after securing, & ascertaining the Duty by measurement and landing the Goods.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jedediah Huntington, 7 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Treasury Department, June 7, 1790. Sends instructions concerning the brig Maria.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 7 June 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence 7th June 1790
Sir

Permitt an old mittilary acquaintance to address you (with out apology) on a Subject particularly Interesting to himself and to request your Friendship and Influence with the President of the United States, to promote his Interests (So far as it shall in your opinion be consistant with propriety & the public Good) in Support of an application he has made to the President to be appointed to the office of Collector for the District of Providence—this and the other Revenue appointments will probably soon be made—as Rhode Island have at last adopted the Enlightened policy to compleat the Band of Union—on which happy event permitt me Sir to congratulate you! I have written my Worthy Friends Genl. Schuyler & Knox on this Subject who have given me assurances of their Friendship & Influence in promoting my Wishes. I am anxious to be on the Ground myself (as probably I have Several competitors) and was I not Ingaged in the present payment of Invalids (a Service in which I feel greatly interested because it contributes to the Relief & Comfort of that meritorous Class of Citizens) I should sett out immediately for New York. However I hope to accomplish this business in time to go on with our Senators who will probably be ready by the 20th Inst. as the Legislature is this day Specially Convened at Newport for the purpose of Choosing them. I fear we shall not be able to send Federal Characters, we shall however make every Exertion. The president of our late Convention, with the advise of the Governor, means to Keep back the Ratification untill about the time the Senators go forward, as they Wish to have all the Ante Revenue officers of the State reappointed & expect the Senators will Influence the President In the nomination of these Bitter & Uniform opposers of the Constitution. Having already Intruded too long on your important moments, I will hast to Conclude by saying that I am with all possible Respect & Esteem Sir Your Most, Obed. Hume. Servt.
Jereh. Olney
Honble. Alexander Hamilton


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jonathan Dayton, 9 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Dayton, Jonathan

Private
New York June 9. 1790
Dear Sir

I duly received your letter of the 3d. of June.
I have written to Mr. Ludlow directing that either Mr. Martin or himself would come forward with the Map.
On the subject of a certain office I can with truth assure you that no person can occur, who on the score of qualifications and merit, will appear to me better intitled than yourself; and that I shall take pleasure in mentioning you in this light to the President, if an opportunity of doing it is afforded me. Yet I will not answer how much weight the circumstance of another Gentleman having been in a situation similar to the one contemplated will have in his mind or even in my own.
All I will say more is this—that I am convinced you would be an acquisition to the public service in whatever station you should be placed and that I consider you as one who ought to be embraced in some official arrangement adequate to your wishes.
I remain very truly   Yr. friend & Ser.
A Hamilton

You will perceive from the tenor of this letter that I express
myself in confidence.
Jonathan Dayton Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, [12 June 1790]
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, June 12, 1790]

Mr. Jefferson presents his compliments to the Secretary of the Treasury, and asks his perusal of the inclosed rough draught of a report on the subject of measures, weights & coins, in hopes that the Secretary of the Treasury may be able to accomodate his plan of a mint to the very small alteration of the money unit proposed in this report. As soon as the Secretary of the Treasury shall have read it, mr Jefferson asks the favor of him to return it, as he wishes to submit it to the examination and correction of some mathematical friends.
June 12. 1790.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Olney, 14 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Olney, Jeremiah

[New York, June 14, 1790. Letter listed in dealer’s catalogue. Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Jefferson, [16 June 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jefferson, Thomas

[New York, June 16, 1790]

Mr. Hamilton presents his Compliments to Mr. Jefferson. He has perused with much satisfaction the draft of his report on the subject of weights and measures. There is no view which Mr. H has yet taken of the matter which stands opposed to the alteration of the money-unit as at present contemplated by the regulations of Congress either in the way suggested in the report or in that mentioned in the note of yesterday. And there are certainly strong reasons to render a correspondency desireable. The idea of a general standard among nations, as in the proposal of the Bishop D Autun seems full of convenience & order.
Wednesday


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, 17 June 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York June 17th. 1790
Sir

I have the honor to enclose you an estimate of the probable expences of the Department of State for one year from the 1st. day of April last past, not including the diplomatic establishment abroad, for which there is a Bill before Congress to make a special appropriation.
I have given directions that a list shall always be sent to your office of all Commissions to be made out for persons connected with the revenue, and whenever you think proper, the Commissions themselves shall be sent to your office to be forwarded thence. I have the honor to be with sentiments of the most perfect esteem and respect &c.
Thomas Jefferson.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Newton, Junior, 17 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Newton, Thomas, Jr.

[New York, June 17, 1790. On June 27, 1790, Newton wrote to Hamilton: “Your favor of the 17th I received this day.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Olney, 17 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Olney, Jeremiah

Treasury DepartmentJune 17th. 1790.
Sir,

I take an opportunity as early as the hurry of business will permit, of transmitting to you my instructions and other communications to the several Collectors of the United States.
As far as they may not be locally inapplicable to Rhode Island, I shall expect a careful observance of them.
I am, Sir, Your obedt. Sert.
Alex. Hamilton Secy of the Treasry.
Jeremiah Olney Esquire,CollectorProvidence, Rhode Island.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Harwood, 18 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Harwood, Thomas

[New York, June 18, 1790. On July 2, 1790, Harwood wrote to Hamilton: “I received your Letter of the 18th. Ulto.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [18 June 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Treasury Department, June 18, 1790]

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to submit to the President of the United states for his consideration, a Contract (with the letter that accompanied it) betwen William Allibone Superintendant of the Light-house, Beacons, Buoys & public Piers on the river and Bay of Delaware and Abraham Hargis, Keeper of the Light-house at Cape Henlopen. The yearly Salary of £130. altho’ it appeared high, is found, on Examination the same as was allowed to this person by the State of Pennsylvania. The allowance of £13. for the several supplies and services specifyed, does not appear unreasonable.
Treasury Department
June 18th. 1790


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Beverley Randolph, 19 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Randolph, Beverley

Treasury Department June 19th 1790
Sir

It appearing from the representation of Col. Carrington that he will be unable to execute in convenient time the business committed to him, relative to the lighthouse on Cape Henry, the President of the united States has been pleased to transfer that duty to Thomas Newton Esqr of Norfolk. The necessary instructions for this Gentleman were dispatched to him by the last mail, and on his report to you it will be Satisfactory to the President that the cession be completed.
I have the honor to be with the greatest respect   Sir   Your obedient Servt
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury
His Excelly Beverly Randolph EsqrGovernor of VirginiaRichmond


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 21 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury Department June 21st. 1790.

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to submit to the President of the United states, for his approbation, the enclosed Contract for timber, boards, Nails and Workmanship, for a Beacon to be placed near the Light-house on Sandy hook; the terms of which, he begs leave to observe are, in his opinion favourable to the U. States.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Joseph Whipple, 21 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Whipple, Joseph

[New York, June 21, 1790. On July 23, 1790, Whipple wrote to Hamilton: “I have delayed to answer your favor of the 21st June.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Allibone, 22 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Allibone, William

[New York, June 22, 1790. On July 3, 1790, Allibone wrote to Hamilton: “I found your letter of the 22d of last month.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 23 June 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence 23rd. June 1790.
Sir

Since my Return to Providence I have made enquiry Respecting fit persons to be Surveyors for Warren, Bristol & Pawcatuck River—but I cannot find but one person for the Port of Bri[s]tol, a Mr. Samuel Bozworth who is, as I am informed a very Good Character, & held the office under the State. Mr. Ellery probably may inform you of Suitable persons for the other Two ports. Danl. Updike as mention in my memorandom for Surveyor Should be Daniel Eldridge Updike. My Commission came on with Colo. Barton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Henry Knox, 24 June 1790
From: Knox, Henry
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York, June 24, 1790. On August 5, 1790, in Schedule B of his “Report on Additional Sums Necessary for the Support of Government,” Hamilton referred to “The Secretary at War in his Letter to the sec’y of the Treasury dated 24 June 1790.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 24 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury Department, June 24, 1790. “No official information has been yet received of the Cession of the Light House at Portland Head.… If you could procure … an Account of the Cost of the Light House, so far as it is built—the height to which it is carried—the height to which it is proposed to be carried, and an estimate of the expence that will attend the Completion of it, I shall be obliged to you.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 25 June 1790
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Alexandria, Virginia, June 25, 1790. On July 4, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Lee acknowledging receipt of Lee’s “letter of the 25th Ultimo.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 25 June 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, June 25, 1790. “Your favor of 17th. Inst. transmitting your instructions and communications to the several Collectors of the United States came to hand this day.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, [26 June 1790]
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, June 26, 1790]
Sir

I am at a loss how to construe the late Act extending the Revenue Laws to R Island and request your opinion & directions as soon as may be on the subject. The Impost Laws lays a duty on all goods imported into the United States from & after the first of August 1789. R Island not being one at the time the Act passed, could not be looked on as in the Union. The Act extending the Impost & Tonnage to that State, says it is to take place in five days after passing. I have a case though I entertain doubts of the true construction which requires as above your opinion & instruction. The Owners of the India Men lately arrived in that State has heretofore sent goods here, & of course paid or secured the Duties. Since R Island was comprehended in the Union other Goods have arrivd here & the owners claim an exemption of Duty. I have prevailed on them to bond from the above motives, under a promise that in a due representation to & consideration of the matter by you, I would should your opinion be conformable abate the Duties and cancel their Bonds. I am not so uneasy about the above, but other goods may come under like circumstances, and though equity and perhaps my opinion of the Law may lead me to exact the Duties Yet there is room for a Contrary opinion, from the Letter of the Law of Impost, or its being in under the last Law a Casus omissus.
I am &c
S Delany
June 26th 1790
Alexdr Hamilton Esqr Secry of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 26 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury DepartmentJune 26th. 1790

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to inform the President of the United states, that he has received a letter from the Collector of Charleston in South Carolina, from which he learns that some misconception has arisen as to the nature of the qualifications of Mr. Thomas Hollingsby, who on the joint recommendation of the Collector & commissioners of Pilotage for that port was appointed Superintendant of the Light-house. These Gentlemen appear to feel much concern, that they shou’d have so expressed themselves, as to promote his appointment to that Duty; and the Collector from his anxiety on the subject has ventur’d to detain the letters directed for Mr. Hollingsby ’till the pleasure of the president, after this information, shou’d be Known. Under these circumstances, the Secretary respectfully submits to the President an opinion, that the public interests will be promoted by the appointment of another person as superintendant, who may employ Mr. Hollingsby in the station of Keeper, for which the Collector and Commissioners intended to recommend him. He takes the liberty further to add, that Edward Blake Esqr. has been strongly recommended as a suitable person by the Honorable Mr. Tucker of the south Carolina Delegation, which is confirmed by the Collector of Charleston.
Alexander HamiltonSecy. of the Treasury


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 26 June 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury DepartmentJune 26th. 1790

The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to inform the President of the United states that the Collector of Charleston in south Carolina has stated to him, that a proposal has been made by James Robinson of Newport, Rhode Island, to the Collector, through the Commissioners of Pilotage of that Port, to supply six hundred gallons of spermaceti Oil, for the use of the Light house, at two shillings & six pence, Rhode Island Money, pr. gallon.
The Contract, which appears to the Secretary favourable to the United states, awaits the determination of the President.
Alexander HamiltonSecy. of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Newton, Junior, 27 June 1790
From: Newton, Thomas, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Norfolk [Virginia] June 27, 1790. “Your favor of the 17th I received.…” Agrees to select the site for the Cape Henry lighthouse. Proposes that a small lighthouse be constructed at “old Point Comfort.”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tobias Lear, 29 June 1790
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

United States June 29. 1790

The President of the United States approves of the proposal, communicated to him on the 26th Inst. by the Secretary of the Treasury, made by James Robinson to the Collector of Charleston in South Carolina, to supply six hundred Gallons of Spermaciti Oil for the use of the Light-house, at two shillings and six pence per Gallon.
The President of the United States likewise assents to the removal of Mr. Thomas Hollingsworth from the office of Superintendant of the Light-house of Charleston in South Carolina, and to the appointment of Edward Blake Esquire to that place, for the reasons communicated to him by the Secretary of the Treasury on the 26th Inst.
By the Command of the President of the United States.
Tobias Lear.Secretary to the President of the United States.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Charles Lee, 29 June 1790
From: Lee, Charles
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Alexandria, Virginia, June 29, 1790. On July 17, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Lee: “Your letter of the 29th June has been duly received.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 29 June 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, June 29, 1790. Asks Hamilton for the “forms of the several returns to be made from time to time.” Thinks that the surveyor should have a boat at Pawtucket to meet incoming ships. Asks for permission to purchase a set of scales and weights. Desires instructions on the collection of a tonnage duty which the state previously levied for defraying the cost of dredging the harbor.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Meletiah Jordan, 1 July 1790
From: Jordan, Meletiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Frenchman’s Bay [District of Maine] July 1, 1790. “Herewith I have the honour to transmit to you one Register, one Enrolment, my Account current for the last Quarter, Abstract of Duties on Tonnage, Abstract of pay to Inspectors &c with the necessary Vouchers.… I have concluded to remit the Ballance in my hands to the Bank of Boston agreeable to your letter of March 29th.… The Schooner Betsey, siezed on account of the United States last fall, has been condemned at a Court of Admiralty held at Portland, the first Tuesday in June last.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 1 July 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, July 1, 1790. States that the lighthouses on Thacher and Plum Islands need to be repaired and that the cost of the work will be $137.83⅓.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Peter Anspach, 2 July 1790
From: Anspach, Peter
To: Hamilton, Alexander

N. York July 2nd. 1790
Sir,

In my memorial of yesterday to Congress and which I am informed has been referred to you I forgot to deliver a Copy of the a/c paid by Mr. Quackenbush, to his attorney for defending suits brought against him by Public creditors; I also in a letter from Col. Pickering to me, dated in March 1789 I recd one inclosed from him, addressed to the late Board of Treasury; which not reaching me until about the time or after the said board ceased transacting public business, prevented my delivering it to either of the gentlemen composing the board and the letter has therefore lain dormant until the other day when I found it put up among some of the letters to me from the quarter master general; and as it probably is on the subject of money being furnished to me, I therefore take the liberty of now of inclosing it and the abovementioned a/c’s to you.
Honble. Alexr. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Harwood, 2 July 1790
From: Harwood, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Annapolis] July 2, 1790. “I received your Letter of the 18th. Ulto. and in obedience to your direction, I have concelled the Indents, blank Loan Office Certificates, New Emission Money in the manner directed, the package I have forwarded to Otho H Williams at Baltimore with directions to Ship it to you.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Allibone, 3 [July] 1790
From: Allibone, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, [July] 3, 1790. “Having returned by this day from a visit of Inspection to the several establishments in the Bay & River Including the light house, it was not without Concern I found your letter of the 22d of last month. Accompanied by the Contract made with abraham Hargis and communicating the disinclination of the President of the United States to approve the allowance of £130 per annum with the other benefits granted to him as keeper of the Light House, And the more so, it having always heretofore been thot. moderate and having the precedents of more than Twenty years standing before me I tho’t it the part in which I was least likely to Err. And sure I am that £130 will maintain a Small family for a year but in Humble Stile. Am Induced to believe that the other Benefits must have been considered of much more value than they are, A house to live in has undoubtedly its Natural Vallue, but it is a necessary appendix to the light House, it being between three & four miles to any inhabitants and they seperated by a navigable water over which not even a ferry is kept, it is absolutely necessary that the Keeper should live upon the spot, and it could not be expected he could find himself a house being removable at pleasure: and it would not only be Improper but of dangerous Tendency to employ A man who had not some family about him, to do what might be necessary in case of Sickness &c. These are considerations making it necessary to find the keeper a house.… I cannot help Flattering myself with A hope that … the President of the United States will view the allowance intended [for Hargis] as not more than adequate to the Service & Situation & be pleased to approve thereof.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Eli Elmer, 3 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Elmer, Eli

[New York, July 3, 1790. On July 29, 1790, Hamilton wrote to Elmer: “Your letter of the 19th ultimo was duly received and I am apprehensive that an answer to it which was written on the 3d of July has been mislaid.” Letter of July 3 not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Harison, [3 July 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Harison, Richard

[New York, July 3, 1790]
Sir

The Collection law rates the ruble of Russia at 100 Cents. The 3d. Section of the act to explain the act “for registering and clearing vessels” &c declares that so much of the Collection law as rates the ruble of Russia at 100 Cents be and that the same is thereby repealed and made null and void.
Discounts have been allowed by some of the Collectors on bonds taken prior to the passing of the repealing Act; the ruble of Russia having been rated too high.
Were they warranted in so doing? Or in other words—Is there any peculiarity in the wording of the repealing clause, which gives it a retrospective operation?
I am Sir   Yr. Obed serv
Alexander Hamilton
New York July 3. 1790
Richard Harrison Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 3 July 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston, July 3, 1790. “Your favour of the 24th Ulto. came by the last post. I have seen one of the Gentlemen to whom was committed the building the light-house at Portland and find that the house is fifty eight feet in height that it must be raised Eight feet higher which will cost about one hundred dollars. The whole expence which has been incurred for the land the Light-house and for a dwilling-house for the keeper amounts to thirteen hundred dollars.… The expence to finish the whole will, from the best light I can obtain, amount to about seven hundred dollars.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Adams, [5 July 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

[New York, July 5, 1790]
Sir

I have the honor to inform the Vice President of the United States and to request him to cause an intimation to be given to the Honoble The Members of the Senate that at one oClock to day, an oration will be delivered at St Pauls Church in commemoration of the declaration of Independence by a Member of the Society of the Cincinnati and that seats are provided for his and their accommodation. Peculiar circumstances prevented an earlier communication. The Requisite number of tickets have been sent to the Secretary of the Senate.
I have the honor to be with the most perfect respect Sir   Your Obed & hum ser

A HamiltonVice President of the NY Society of the Cin.
Monday July 5
vice President of the United States


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Olney, 6 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Olney, Jeremiah

Treasury DepartmentJuly 6. 1790
Sir;

From your letter of the 23d. June, a doubt has arisen, with respect to the name of the Person whom you recommend as Surveyor for North Kingstown.
One of the Senators of your State informs me, that he is acquainted with Daniel Updike, but knows of no person by the name of Daniel Eldridge Updike. If they are not two distinct persons, it will be necessary to ascertain the true name of the Gentleman intended for the office, and to communicate it to me, as speedily as may be, in order that the appointment may suffer no delay.
I am, Sir, Your Obedt. Servt.
A. Hamilton.
Jeremiah Olney Esqr.Collector of the Port of Providence, Rhode Island.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jeremiah Olney, 7 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Olney, Jeremiah

Treasury Department, July 7th. 1790.
Sir,

Yours of the 29th. of June has been received. The Comptroller informs me that the forms for keeping and rendering your accounts, have been forwarded under cover to the Collector of Newbury Port; I doubt not they have since come to hand.
I have generally authorised such boats as are requisite for the Surveyors & Inspectors to go on board of vessels, that is for harbour Service; for this purpose you may provide one, together with the necessary Scales, & weights, observing due œconomy in the purchase of those articles.
I here inclose copy of a circular Letter respecting Light houses, Beacons, Buoys & public piers, lest it should have been omitted at the time when copies of the other instructions were transmitted: You will please to furnish me with all the information therein required with regard to the establishment at your port.
By the Act entitled “An act for the establishment of Light Houses &c.” You will perceive that the provision does not a present so far, as to authorise machines for the clearing of harbours to facilitate the navigation: still this is a matter that may merit a future contemplation, and I shall therefore bear it in mind. The Tonnage formerly imposed by the State, for the purpose of defraying those expenses, could not now with propriety be collected by you.
I am Sir   Your Obedt. Servt.
A. Hamilton.
Jerh. Olney Esqr.Collector for the Port of Providence.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [8 July 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[New York, July 8, 1790]

Memorandum of the substance of a Communication made on Thursday the Eighth of July 1790 to the Subscriber by Major Beckwith as by direction of Lord Dorchester.
Major Beckwith began by stating that Lord Dorchester had directed him to make his acknowlegements for the politeness which had been shewn in respect to the desire he had intimated to pass by New York in his way to England; adding that the prospect of a War between Great Britain and Spain would prevent or defer the execution of his intention in that particular. He next proceeded to observe that Lord Dorchester had been informed of a negotiation commenced on the other side of the water through the Agency of Mr. Morris; mentioning as the Subscriber understood principally by way of proof of Ld. Dorchesters knowlege of the transaction that Mr. Morris had not produced any regular credentials, but merely a letter from the President directed to himself, that some delays had intervened partly on account of Mr. Morris’s absence on a trip to Holland as was understood and that it was not improbable those delays and some other circumstances may have impressed Mr. Morris with an idea of backwardness on the part of the British Ministry. That his Lordship however had directed him to say that an inference of this sort would not in his opinion be well founded as he had reason to believe that the Cabinet of Great Britain entertained a disposition not only towards a friendly intercourse but towards an alliance with the United States. Major Beckwith then proceeded to speak of the particular cause of the expected rupture between Spain and Britain observing that it was one in which all Commercial nations must be supposed to favour the views of G. Britain. That it was therefore presumed, should a war take place, that the U States would find it to be their interest to take part with Great Britain rather than with Spain.
Major Beckwith afterwards mentioned that Lord Dorchester had heared with great concern of some depredations committed by some Indians on our Western frontier. That he wished it to be believed that nothing of this kind had received the least countenance from him. That on the contrary he had taken every proper opportunity of inculcating upon the Indians a pacific disposition towards us; and that as soon as he had heared of the outrages lately committed he had sent a message to endeavour to prevent them. That his Lordship had understood that the Indians alluded to were a banditti composed chiefly or in great part of Creeks or Cherokees over whom he had no influence; intimating at the same time that these tribes were supposed to be in connection with the Spaniards.
He stated in the next place that his Lordship had been informed that a Captain Hart in our service and a Mr. Wemble and indeed some persons in the Treaty at Fort Harmar had thrown out menaces with regard to the Posts on the Frontier and had otherwise held very intemperate language; which however his Lordship considered rather as effusions of individual feelings than as the effects of any instruction from authority.
Major Beckwith concluded with producing a letter signed Dorchester; which letter contained ideas similar to those he had expressed though in more guarded terms and without any allusion to instructions from the British Cabinet. This letter it is now recollected hints at the non execution of the treaty of peace on our part.
On the Subscriber remarking the circumstance that this letter seemed to speak only the sentiments of his Lordship Major Beckwith replied that whatever reasons there might be for that course of proceeding in the present stage of the business, it was to be presumed that his Lordship knew too well the consequence of such a step to have taken it without a previous knowlege of the intentions of the Cabinet.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, 9 July 1790
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philada. July 9th. 1790
Dear Sir

I find by several letters from New York that the bill relative to the residence has hitherto stood its ground, which affords a further hope that this agitating business will be settled by the present Attempt. It has really become necessary for the Government has been exceedingly depreciated by it even here. Many who consider it as a great Object, still think it not worth the expence of time, money & character which it is like to cost.
The public creditors are to have a meeting this Evening—but it is not much liked by some of the most judicious of them. It is suspected to have our elections, as much as public credit for its object. I do not think however that it will do any harm. The Assumption, if mentioned, then will be supported I think by a considerable strength. Tis probable it will be spoken of in the course of what will fall from the Speakers. You may be satisfied that the Assumption has gained ground very considerably in this city, and that it will not lose the supporters it now has, who believe it the sine qua non of a satisfactory funding System. The hope of making better terms by a concert with the friends of Assumption has made a pretty strong impression on the minds of several influential men to whom I have suggested it, tho they think it will not be easy to make some of the strong opponents admit the Idea.
I direct this letter to be sent down to you immediately as the information on this last point will be satisfactory & may be wanted.
I am with my very respectful compliments to Mrs. Hamilton, dear Sir,   yr. affectionate & obed. Servant
Tench Coxe

I expect to make my Absence ten days from my time of departure as at first proposed.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Jefferson, 9 July 1790
From: Jefferson, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York July 9. 1790
Dear Sir

You were so kind as to say you would write to our bankers in Holland to answer my draught for a part of the balance due me for salary etc. I suppose in fact it will be necessary to clear their minds on the subject, for tho’ they know that the diplomatic expences in Europe were paid on the funds in their hands, yet as I am here they will naturally expect your instructions should accompany my draught. It will be for £350 sterling, expressed in gilders, I do not know as yet how many gilders exactly, nor in whose favor I shall draw. Messrs. Leroy & Bayard are to negociate the matter so that it may be finished in the morning before the packet sails and also before we set out on our party which I understand is to be at 9. oclock. It will suffice I presume if you say in general terms that I shall make the draught & that it will be for about £350. sterl. expressed in gilders. I apprehend a duplicate also of your letter will be necessary. I shall accompany them with a letter of advice naming the drawer & sum in gilders exactly. I will take the liberty of sending to you at 8. oclock in the morning for the letters; and am with great & sincere esteem dear Sir your most obedt humble servt
Th: Jefferson
Colo. Hamilton.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 9 July 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston July 9, 1790
Sir,

The time will soon arrive when we may expect that large quantities of pickled & dryed fish will be imported here from Nova Scotia. Upon their arrival they are charged with a duty, on the pickled fish seventy five Cents ⅌ barrel & on the dryed fish fifty cents ⅌ Quintal. These fish are not consumed in the United States and are entitled to a draw back upon their being exported to a foreign market. By this operation of the law the Union do not receive enough to pay the expences of inspection &c. The one ⅌ cent is not sufficient to discharge them.
I also find that the public will be in debt when they shall have paid the bounties on fish and salted provisions for the saving of one cent on a bushell will not pay the expence which will necessarily arise from weighing and that inspection to the loading them which is required. From the nature of this business it must be expensive and especially in cases when fish are shipped in the bulk for they cannot be received but in fine weather and frequently a whole day is expended in lading seventy or eighty Quintals. Besides the frequent removal of the scales and weights from one end of the town to the other & the pay to labourers add much to the expence. Is it understood that the weighers pay the expence of Labourers to put the casks into the scale &c or is that to be charged against the United States?
I find the practice is different respecting the time of payment of the bounties on Fish & Salted provisions. Some pay them at the time of Shipping, others mean to wait untill evidence shall be produced that articles have been landed in some foreign port. I shall be obliged by your ideas on the subject.
Hon Secy of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Newton, Junior, 11 July 1790
From: Newton, Thomas, Jr.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Norfolk [Virginia] July 11, 1790. “I wrote you the 27th of last month, this serves to cover a Certificate of two of the most able seamen we have in these parts, of the most proper spot for erecting a Light house, the stone which was formerly intended for the purpose, will be in the two acres, as that is reserved by our act of Assembly I imagine it will make no differance. The Gentlemen are of opinion that it Woud be best to build with wood, in which opinion I join, as it wou’d take three or four years in all probability to finish one of stone, whilst that of wood cou’d be done by October twelve months or less time, as it cou’d be framed & all the materials carried to the spot in a proper season.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 14 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury Department, July 14, 1790. Encloses the commissions for the various lighthouse keepers in Massachusetts.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [15 July 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[New York, July 15, 1790]

In my second interview with Major Beckwith which was on Thursday the 22d. instant I spoke to him nearly as follows
I have made the proper use of what you said to me at our last interview.
As to what regards the objects of a general nature mentioned by you, though your authority for the purpose from Lord Dorchester is out of question, and though I presume from his Lordship’s station & character and the knowlege he appears to have of what is passing on the other side of the water with regard to Mr. Morris, that the Step he has taken through you is conformable to the views of your Cabinet and not without its sanction; yet you are no doubt sensible that the business presents itself in a shape, which does not give the proper authenticity to that fact, and is wholly without formality. You must also be sensible that there is a material difference between your situation and that of Mr. Morris. His Credentials though not formal proceed from the proper source. Your’s are neither formal nor authoritative.

This state of things will of course operate in what I am going to say on the subject.
As to what relates to friendship between Great Britain and the United States, I conceive myself warranted in declaring that there is in this country a sincere disposition to concur in obviating with candor and fairness all ground of misunderstanding which may now exist, in reference to the execution of the late Treaty of Peace and in laying the foundation of future good understanding by establishing liberal terms of commercial intercourse.
As to alliance; this opens a wide field. The thing is susceptible of a vast variety of forms. ’Tis not possible to judge what would be proper or what could be done unless points were brought into view. If you are in condition to mention particulars, it may afford better ground of conversation.
I stopped here for an answer.
Major Beckwith replied that he could say nothing more particular than he had already done.
That being the case (continued I) I can only say that the thing is in too general a form to admit of a judgment of what may be eventually admissible or practicable. If the subject shall hereafter present itself to discussion in an authentic and proper shape, I have no doubt we shall be ready to converse freely upon it: And you will naturally conclude that we shall be disposed to pursue whatever shall appear under all circumstances to be our interest as far as may consist with our honor. At present I would not mean either to raise or repress expectation.
Major Beckwith seemed to admi⟨t⟩ that as things were circumstanced nothing explicit could be expected and went on to make some observations which I understood as having for object to sound whether there existed any connection between Spain and us and whether the questions with regard to the Mississippie were settled.
Perceiving this I thought it better in a matter which was no secret to avoid an appearance of Mystery and to declare without hesitation, as I did—
“That there was no particular connection between Spain and the U States within my knowlege, and that it was matter of public notoriety that the questions alluded to were still unadjusted.”
The rest of our conversation consisted chiefly of assurances on my part that the menaces which had been mentioned by him as having been thrown out by some individuals with regard to the Western posts were unauthorised, proceeding probably from a degree of irritation, which the detention of the posts had produced in the minds of many—and of a repetition on his part of the assurances which he had before given of Lord Dorchesters disposition to discourage Indian Outrages.
Something was said respecting the probable course of military operations in case of war between Britain & Spain which Major Beckwith supposed would be directed towards South America alleging however that this was mere conjecture on his part. I hinted cautiously our dislike of an enterprise on New Orleans.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from George Cabot, 16 July 1790
From: Cabot, George
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Beverly [Massachusetts] July 16, 1790. Recommends Colonel Joshua Orne for the position of collector at Marblehead.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 16 July 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, July 16, 1790. “Your favours of 6 & 7 Inst have been received. The name of the person recommended for Surveyor at the port of North Kingstown is Daniel Eldridge Updike. There is also another person of the same place by the name of Daniel Updike who is the State’s Attorney.… The forms transmitted by the Comptroller for Keeping the accots &c have been received.… In purchasing the boat and scales, you have permitted for this district, I shall observe due economy.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Charles Lee, 17 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lee, Charles

Treasury Department, July 17, 1790. “Your letter of the 29th June has been duly received. I thank you for the information therein communicated.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Wilhem and Jan Willink, Nicholaas and Jacob Van Staphorst, and Nicholas Hubbard, 17 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Willink, Wilhem,Willink, Jan,Van Staphorst, Jacob,Van Staphorst, Nicholaas,Hubbard, Nicholas

Treasury Department,July 17th. 1790.
Gentlemen,

It being understood, that you have retained in your hands a sufficient sum to discharge the balance of salary, due to Mr. Jefferson, as Minister plenipotentiary at the Court of France, it has been deemed inexpedient to change the course of the thing, by paying him that balance here. He, therefore has informed me, that he will draw upon you, on that account, for three hundred and fifty pounds sterling, to be expressed in Guilders; which I accordingly request you will be pleased to pay, in conformity to the tenor of his drafts, and for which a due credit will be allowed you. It is my desire, that his drafts should, at all events, be honored though you should not have retained monies for that purpose, as is understood to be the case.
I am &c.
Alexander Hamilton.
Messrs. Willink, Van Staphorst & Hubbard.Amsterdam.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 19 July 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, July 19, 1790. “The rigging, Sails cables and anchors belonging to the Brig Happy Return, lately stranded at Dublin, arrived here on the fifteenth instant; presuming those articles were, at some rate or other dutiable, I demanded a bond of the owners to secure the duties until the exact amount could be ascertained.… Having promised … to postpone the final adjustment of the matter until I obtained your opinion thereon, I ask, Sir, the favor of your particular directions.…”


Title: Report on Vacant Lands, 20 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Treasury-department, July 20th. 1790.[Communicated on July 22, 1790]

[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]
In obedience to the order of the House of Representatives of the 20th. of January last, The Secretary of the Treasury,
Respectfully reports;
That in the formation of a plan for the disposition of the vacant lands of the United States, there appear to be two leading objects of consideration; one, the facility of advantageous sales according to the probable course of purchases; the other, the accommodation of individuals now inhabiting the Western Country, or who may hereafter emigrate thither.
The former, as an operation of finance, claims primary attention: the latter is important, as it relates to the satisfaction of the inhabitants of the Western Country. It is desirable, and does not appear impracticable to conciliate both.
Purchasers may be contemplated in three classes. Monied individuals and companies, who will buy to sell again. Associations of persons, who intend to make settlements themselves. Single persons, or families now resident in the Western Country, or who may emigrate thither hereafter. The two first will be frequently blended, and will always want considerable tracts. The last will generally purchase small quantities. Hence a plan for the sale of the Western lands, while it may have due regard to the last, should be calculated to obtain all the advantages which may be derived from the two first classes. For this reason, it seems requisite, that the general Land-office should be established at the seat of Government. ’Tis there, that the principal purchasers, whether citizens or foreigners, can most easily find proper agents, and that contracts for large purchases can be best adjusted.
But the accommodation of the present inhabitants of the Western Territory, and of unassociated persons and families who may emigrate thither, seems to require that one office, subordinate to that of the Seat of Congress, should be opened in the North western, and another in the South western Government.
Each of these offices, as well the general one as the subordinate ones, it is conceived, may be placed with convenience under the superintendance of three Commissioners, who may either be pre-established officers of the Government, to whom the duty may be assigned by law, or persons specially appointed for the purpose. The former is recommended by considerations of Œconomy, and, it is probable, would embrace every advantage which could be derived from a special appointment.
To obviate those inconveniences, and to facilitate and ensure the attainment of those advantages which may arise from new and casual circumstances springing up from foreign and domestic causes, appears to be an object for which adequate provision should be made, in any plan that may be adopted. For this reason, and from the intrinsic difficulty of regulating the details of a specific provision for the various objects which require to be consulted, so as neither to do too much nor too little for either, it is respectfully submitted, whether it would not be advisable to vest a considerable latitude of discretion in the Commissioners of the General Land Office, subject to some such regulations and limitations as follow. Vizt.
That no land shall be sold, except such, in respect to which the titles of the Indian tribes shall have been previously extinguished.
That a sufficient tract or tracts shall be reserved and set apart for satisfying the subscribers to the proposed loan in the public debt, but that no location shall be for less than five hundred Acres.

That convenient tracts shall from time to time be set apart for the purpose of locations by actual settlers, in quantities not exceeding to one person one hundred acres.
That other tracts shall, from time to time, be set apart for sales in townships of ten miles square, except where they shall adjoin upon a boundary of some prior grant, or of a tract so set apart, in which cases there shall be no greater departure from such form of location, than may be absolutely necessary.
That any quantities may, nevertheless, be sold by special contract, comprehended either within natural boundaries or lines, or both.
That the price shall be thirty Cents per acre to be paid, either in gold or silver, or in public securities, computing those which shall bear an immediate interest of six per cent, as at par with gold and silver, and those which shall bear a future or less interest, if any there shall be, at a proportional value.
That Certificates issued for land upon the proposed loan, shall operate as warrants within the tract or tracts which shall be specially set apart for satisfying the subscribers thereto, and shall also be receivable in all payments whatsoever for land by way of discount, Acre for Acre.
That no credit shall be given for any quantity, less than a township of ten miles square, nor more than two years credit for any greater quantity.
That in every instance of credit, at least one quarter part of the consideration shall be paid down, and security other than the land itself, shall be required for the residue. And that no title shall be given for any tract or part of a purchase, beyond the quantity for which the consideration shall be actually paid.
That the residue of the tract or tracts set apart for the subscribers to the proposed loan, which shall not have been located within two years after the same shall have been set apart, may then be sold on the same terms as any other land.
That the Commissioners of each subordinate office shall have the management of all sales, and the issuing of Warrants for all locations in the tracts to be set apart for the accommodation of individual settlers, subject to the superintendency of the Commissioners of the general Land-office, who may also commit to them the management of any other sales or locations, which it may be found expedient to place under their direction.
That there shall be a Surveyor General, who shall have power to appoint a Deputy Surveyor General, in each of the Western Governments, and a competent number of Deputy Surveyors to execute, in person, all Warrants to them directed by the Surveyor General or Deputy Surveyors General within certain districts to be assigned to them respectively. That the Surveyor General shall also have in charge, all the duties committed to the Geographer General by the several resolutions and ordinances of Congress.
That all warrants issued at the General Land Office, shall be signed by the Commissioners or such one of them as they may nominate for that purpose, and shall be directed to the Surveyor General. That all warrants issued at a subordinate office shall be signed by the Commissioners of such office, or by such one of them, as they may nominate for that purpose, and shall be directed to the Deputy Surveyor General within the government. That the priority of locations upon Warrants shall be determined by the times of the applications to the Deputy Surveyors; and in case of two applications for the same land at one time, the priority may be determined by Lot.
That the Treasurer of the United States shall be the receiver of all payments for sales made at the General Land office, and may also receive deposits of money or securities for purchases intended to be made at the subordinate offices, his receipts or certificates for which shall be received in payment at those offices.
That the Secretary of each of the Western Governments, shall be the receiver of all payments arising from sales at the office of such Government.
That controversies concerning rights to patents or grants of land shall be determined by the Commissioners of that office, under whose immediate direction or jurisdiction, the locations, in respect to which they may arise, shall have been made.
That the completion of all contracts and sales heretofore made, shall be under the direction of the Commissioners of the General Land Office.
That the Commissioners of the General Land Office, Surveyor-General, Deputy-Surveyors General, and the Commissioners of the Land Office, in each of the Western Governments, shall not purchase, nor shall others purchase for them in trust, any public lands.
That the Secretaries of the Western Governments shall give security for the faithful discharge of their duty, as receivers of the Land Office.
That all patents shall be signed by the President of the United States, or by the Vice-president or other officer of government acting as President, and shall be recorded in the office, either of the Surveyor General, or of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of the United States.
That all officers acting under the laws establishing the Land-Office, shall make oath faithfully to discharge their respective duties, previously to their entering upon the execution thereof.
That all Surveys of land shall be at the expense of the purchasers or grantees.
That the fees shall not exceed certain rates to be specified in the law, affording equitable compensations for the services of the Surveyors, and establishing reasonable and customary charges for patents and other Office papers for the benefit of the United States.
That the Commissioners of the General Land Office shall, as soon as may be, from time to time, cause all the rules and regulations which they may establish, to be published in one gazette, at least, in each State, and in each of the Western Governments, where there is a Gazette, for the information of the citizens of the United States.
Regulations, like these, will define and fix the most essential particulars which can regard the disposal of the Western lands, and where they leave any thing to discretion, will indicate the general principles or policy intended by the Legislature to be observed; for a conformity to which the Commissioners will, of course, be responsible. They will, at the same time, leave room for accommodating to circumstances which cannot, beforehand, be accurately appreciated, and for varying the course of proceeding, as experience shall suggest to be proper, and will avoid the danger of those obstructions and embarrassments in the execution, which would be to be apprehended from an endeavor at greater precision and more exact detail.
All which is humbly submitted
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Lincoln, 23 July 1790
From: Lincoln, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Boston July 23 1790.
Sir.

In my last I suggested my apprehensions that we should suffer by having thrown in upon us the fish from Nova Scotia. I am hourly more and more confirmed in the idea and that we shall pay the bounty on much more fish than we shall like. Our vessels are permitted to fish on the coast of Nova-Scotia and make the fish on shore. Many of them are in this practice and return in the fall with the voyage. If they are disposed to take in fish on freight at the port where they shall make their own we cannot discover it for our people & the Nova Scotians not only take their fish on the same banks but make them in the same harbour & probably on the same beaches. There are great quantities of fish brought from the eastern part of our State to this market. We have no other controul over the vessel freighting the same but to prevent her unlading untill she has a permit to do it. We are called every day to inspect fish but we have no means of determining whether they were foreign caught fish or not. I confess my self at a loss how to point out a mode effectually to guard against the impositions we shall suffer in these cases.
However I think it may be Checked by removing the present duty on foreign fish for although as the law now standes, there is a draw back of the duties on the exportation of the fish, as Ninety Nine is to a hundred. Yet the importers are affraid of the duty and take every measure to avoid it. The consequence of this is that they are smuggled in & get so intermixed with the fish caught by the americans that they cannot after be discovered and seperated from them [and] therefore draw a bounty as our own. To prohibit the exportation of foreign fish might be the most effectual measure. Policy however may forbid a step of this kind.
The difficulties attending this business will be few where the fish is exported directly to a foreign market from the port in which it is cured but as very considerable proportion of the fish is exported from this port where very little indeed is cured.
If masters of vessels upon thus entering the fish, which shall be exported from one port to an other in the United States should be obliged to make oath that it is fish caught by Citizens of these States in that case we should have a check. And if the merchant prior to his being intitled to receive the bounty should be obliged to give all the proof which the nature of the case would admit of that the fish entered for exportation was fish caught by the Citizens of the United States and in vessels owned by them. Or if he should be obliged to make oath on the entery of the fish for exportation that they were according to his best knowledge & belief caught by our Citizens &c we should have an other check.
Indeed as I said before I feel my self at a loss how we shall effectually guard against the evil imposition mentioned unless we greatly embarrass the merchant and encumber trade—evils Congress wishes to avoid. Though conscious of this Yet I supposed that would not apologize for my neglect should I omit to mention them.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Joseph Whipple, 23 July 1790
From: Whipple, Joseph
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Portsmo New Hamp. July 23. 1790
Sir

I have delayed to answer your favor of the 21st. June in expectation that I should be enabled to inform the moti⟨v⟩es which induced the Legislature again to Negative a motion for the Cession of the Light house.
I am informed that the house of Representatives rejected the report of a Committee for Cedeing the Light house & 3 Acres of Land which included the ground Occupied for a parade & platform to the fortress Wm. & Mary—but voted to Cede the Light house with one fourth of an Acre of Land (which takes in a point of Rocks near the Fort). This Vote of the House was in the Senate Negatived. The grounds on which this branch of the Legislature Acted I could not learn, not having Seen one of the Members, nor the president of the State who precided in the Senate & to whom I have written On the Subject.

As the Matter is now circumstanced be pleased to give me your further directions respecting the payment or the Offer of payment for the year directed by the Act of Congress. The present Contract made by the State for the Support of the Light house for one year (which commenced in Feb. last) was £175 or 583 Dollars. The person who Supplied the light prior to the Contract & since the 15th of August last is now in advance 90 Dolls.—which he expects from the United States—& his estimate for a years expence was only 300 Dollars including the pay of a Soldier who attended the light.
I am very respectfully Sir yr. M. Obt. sert.
Hon Alex. Hamilton Esqr.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 25 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury DepartmentJuly 25th 1790
Sir

I have received your favor of the 9th Instant, and duly observed the useful hints in it relative to the exportation of & re-exportation of salted provisions & Fish.
The question with regard to Weighers will probably meet the attention of the Legislature in the present Session.
I observe with great satisfaction your successful endeavors to detect the Breaches of the Revenue Laws and to secure the offenders in the case of the Schooner Bee.
The Fish that remained on Board the Schooner is capable of Entry. I presume however that the Attorney for the U States has advised the seizure of the 200 Quintals which were unlawfully landed if they have been found.
I am Sir   with great respect Your
Benjn Lincoln Esqr


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Newton, Junior, 25 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Newton, Thomas, Jr.

[New York, July 25, 1790. On August 6, 1790, Newton wrote to Hamilton: “Your Letter of the 25th Ult. I received this day.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Morgan Lewis, 26 July 1790
From: Lewis, Morgan
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Rhynbeck [New York] 26th. July 1790
My Dear sir

I perceive by the public Prints that Congress have rejected the Revennue System you offered them. Which Circumstance puts a period to my Expectations of being enabled to return to the City. It has not however, in my Mind, weakened my Obligations to you. I feel the weight of them as sensibly, as if your Wishes with Regard to me, had been compleatly gratified. Instances of disinterested Friendship, are Things I have so rarely met with, that I have almost been induced to doubt their Existence. Indeed, if my Memory does not fail me, I may with Truth assert the present, the only One I ever experienced. Accept Sir my sincere Acknowledgements, and be assured I shall ever retain a grateful Sense of the Value of your Friendship.
The Removal of Congress will probably carry you shortly to Phia. If Mrs. L can learn the Time of your intended departure, She means if possible to see Mrs. H. before it takes place. She desires her Love & best Wishes to you both. Be assured you have mine, and tho’ they cannot prove as serviceable to you as those of many Others, ’tis not that they are less sincere. Adieu. A tender of Services by One who has it not in his power to serve, would be ridiculous. But, should Accident in some future Day render it otherwise; I shall not forget the Right you have to command.
Dr Sir   Your sincere Friend & hum Servt.
Morn. Lewis


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 27 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury Department, July 27, 1790. “… I request that you will be so obliging as to inform me, whether you have received and found right, a parcel of 150 Ship Registers prepared according to law & forwarded to your Office on the 9th of December last, and another parcel of 200, also forwarded to your office on the 16th of the same Month.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Eli Elmer, 29 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Elmer, Eli

Treasury Department, July 29, 1790. “Your letter of the 19th ultimo was duly received and I am apprehensive that an answer to it which was written on the 3d of July has been mislaid. I do not perfectly comprehend from whence arises the expectation that no owner will appear for the goods taken into your keeping from the vessel cast on shore in distress.… The expenses of storage must in this and all other cases be paid by the owners of the Goods.”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 30 July 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury Department, July 30, 1790. “I have been favored with your information, respecting the light House at Portland Head some days; but it has not been deemed proper to ask from the Legislature, the needful Authority to finish that Building untill the Cession by the State should be received.… The repairs stated in your letters relative to the Light Houses on Plumb & Thatchers Islands& Boston Harbor, appearing necessary you will proceed in them with all possible Economy.…”