Title: Enclosure: James Swan to William Short, 14 December 1790
From: Swan, James
To: Short, William

Paris 14th. Decr 1790.
Sir
Agreeably to your desire in your Letter of the 9th. Inst., I have endeavoured all in my power to persuade Messrs. Sweizer Jeanneret & Co., from the pursuit of their plan, & have communicated your Letter to them, in which it appears you do not consider yourself as authorized to accept it, but all without effect—for I find they have determin’d to raise, as they say, every obstacle which can possibly arise in the affair, and they seem the more sure of that, since they have the Ministers upon their side.
You will be able to judge how far they have done that, by the Memorial which they send you by an Express.
That I might be sure of what they depended upon, and not to misinform you, or mislead myself, I went with them this morning to the Minister, who approves of all their steps, & the propositions that they make you, and propose to make raport of it to the Assembly, in order to hinder any steps being taken by others.
The minister, by what reason I know not, is so in favor of this affair, that he declares he can’t think of any thing more advantageous & agreeable to both Nations: and should you not think proper to conclude at Amsterdam, this negociation, & that the opinion of some houses there be just, that is, that you will leave that City soon, I should think it advisable, with submission to you, to come here as soon as possible, as your presence might baffle the negociation, or hinder steps from being taken, that you might not approve, be it by the Minister, or the proposers.
I trust if you knew all, that you would be satisfied with the Zeal I follow your views in this business. All that depended upon me I have exercised to dissuade them from it, but with the support they have, & the idea, that they now possess of fullfilling all the wants of Congress, in offering the Ten million Loan, & of having removed by that the fear that you expressed in the Letter to me—they are obstinate—& would send on this Express.
Should you conclude to tarry in Holland, & desire a personel conference with these Gentlemen, I will accompagny them to Amsterdam or to the Hague.
I am with respect & esteem   Sir   Your mo. obed. st
Jam. Swan
Mr. Short.


Title: Enclosure: William Short to Comte de Montmorin, 19 December 1790
From: Shoet, William
To: Montmorin, Comte de

ce 19 Xbre 1790
Monsieur
J’ai recu avant hier par un courier extraordinaire de la part de  Messieurs Schweizer Jeanneret & Cie des propositions ulterieures relatives à la dette Américaine avec des explications trés detaillées de leur plan pour la liquidation de cette dette. Je n’ai pu que leur repeter ce que j’ai eu l’honneur de vous repondre, Monsieur, à leur sujet le 8 de ce mois; que je n’avois pas des pouvoirs suffisants pour prendre aucun arrangement dans le genre de celui qu’ils proposoient. Je l’ai cru inutile d’aprés cela d’entrer avec eux dans la discussion de leur plan. Je me suis donc borné, Monsieur, à cette observation seulement pour reponse; en ajoutant que comme leur plan paroissoit avoir recu l’approbation du ministère François, je m’empresserois de le communiquer ainsi que tout autre qui auroit recu la même approbation, au President des Etats Unis qui avoit le droit seul d’en decider pour eux.
Avec des pouvoirs ainse bornés je n’ai pas cru devoir les encourager à faire le voyage ici qu’ils ont proposé, s’il etoit necessaire pour entrer dans le traité definitif. Si après ces observations, Monsieur, & celles que j’ai deja eu l’honneur de vous faire, vous croyez que l’intérêt de la France exige que la negotiation pour la vente de la dette Américaine soit continuée, je le ⟨considererai⟩ de mon devoir de faire tout ce qui depend de moi pour me conformer à votre desir & ⟨consentir⟩ avec ceux que vous voudrez bien me designer, les mesures qui me paroitroient le plus dans le cas d’etre agreables aux Etats-Unis; observant toujours que je n’ai le pouvoir de ⟨rien⟩ faire de ⟨⟩ & que tout seroit sujet entierement à l’approbation du President des Etats-Unis. Dans ce cas aussi il seroit necessaire que les personnes designées ⟨soient⟩ connues & d’un credit irreprochable & ⟨⟩ la negotiation ne fut rendue publique qu’aprés avoir eté communiqué au President des Etats-Unis.
Vous sentirez facilement, Monsieur, que ces conditions sont ⟨⟩ pour ne pas compromettre le credit des Etats Unis avec les gens à argent de ce pays & pour ⟨⟩ les operations commencées pour l’acquitement de leur dette à la France, & le ⟨maintien⟩ de leur credit, qui sont, comme j’ai eu l’honneur de vous dire, Monsieur, avont mon depart de Paris, l’objet de mon voyage ici. J’ai tout lieu de croire qu’il sera parfaitement rempli & que les Etats Unis seront bientot à même de liquider toutes leurs dettes. Je suis persuadé que je n’ai pas besoin de vous repeter, qu’ils regardent cette dette à la France comme la plus sacrée & celle dont l’acquitement complet les tient le plus à coeur.
Je n’ai qu’a àjouter, Monsieur, des assurances des sentimens

  Monsieur de Montmorin, Ministre & Secretaire d’Etat, ayant le Departement des affaires etrangeres à Paris.


Title: Enclosure: Description of the Scale Accompanying Dycases Hydrometer, [18 December 1790]
From:
To:

One side of it represents the different degrees of strength of Liquors from water to proof, of this no use will be made in the execution of the law.
The other side which is that to be made use of represents the different degrees of Strength from 20 ⅌ Cent below proof to 69. above proof or Alcohol.
  On this side towards the left is a plain Space with a flower de liece, (Figure thus ) in the center of that space which is marked A. The better to distinguish it, on the left hand and upper edge of the Slider (or moveable piece in the middle), are graduations from thirty to Eighty; which are intended to correspond with the same degrees of Fahrenheits Thermometer, the other sizses of graduations and numbers of the Slider from 100. to 370 are intended to correspond with the sum of some one of the numbers of the weights in the Box, &c. some one of the divissions of the Stem of the Hydrometer, as will be hereafter Explained, the outside numbers (or those nearest the edge) on the Scale both above and below the Slider from 20. to proof, and from proof to 76, designates the number of gallons of Water which added to any given Strength of Spirits will bring it to proof, if more than proof, or if only proof to 20. ⅌ cent below it.
The inner numbers on the body of the Scale above and below the Slider, and the graduations corresponding with them, express the different degrees of the Strength of spirits from 20 ⅌ cent below proof to 69 ⅌ cent above proof, which amounts to Alcohol.
  Proof is represented by the line which runs through a certainfigure thus  with the word proof over it. The graduations on the left of it on the upper edge express, so many degrees ⅌ cent below proof, from 1. to 20. those on the right on the upper side, and those below express the degrees ⅌ cent above proof. from 1. to 69. It will be observed, that the numbers 190. and 200. are twice repeated, once on the upper and once on the lower part of the Slider, and it will also be observed that the number 20 on the body of the Scale is likewise twice repeated once above and once below the Slider, and it will be found, by tryals that the numbers so repeated correspond with the same numbers above and below, which are repeated on the Scale, whence it will be the same thing, which of them are made use of in the opperation.
The Hydrometer is the brass Instrument in the Box, graduated or divided on the upper stem from one to 10, the round pieces of Brass in the box in a Series from 1 to 350 serve as weights, some one of which fixed upon the stem will sink the Hydrometer in the Liquor to some divission on the stem, or at least till the bubble is below the upper surface of the liquor, what particular weight will do this depends on the Strength of the liquor.
The Process in the use of this Hydrometer is as follows. First immerse one of Fahrenheits Thermometers in long enough to express its true temperature; which in respect to the smallest kind will be very short. This being done, find the degree on the Slider which corresponds with that of the temperature of the liquor expressed by the Thermometer, then place the Slider, as that this degree may exactly coincide with the Stem of the Flower de liece.
Next immerse the Hydrometer in the Liquor, and place upon the upper part of the Stem that precise weight, which will Sink the Bulb, below the Surface of the liquor to some one of the divisions on the stem; if the weight be too heavy it will intirely sink the Hydrometer stem and all, if it be too light some part of the bulb however small, will remain above the surface of the liquor, in neither case will the weight be the right one, when the proper weight is found and applied, you add the number on the weight to the number of the division on the stem, marked or designated by the surface of the liquor. The sum of these numbers is now to be looked for on the Slider, and immediately above or below it on the Scale is found the degree ⅌ cent which the liquor is above or below proof.

An example may make this plainer. Suppose the degree of the Temperature found by the Thermometer to be 40. Place then 40 the corresponding graduation on the left of the Slider in coincidence with the stem of the flower de liece.
Suppose also that the number of the weight which will sink the Hydrometer to some division of the stem is 150. and that the number of that division is 2. These two numbers added together make 152. Look for the last number on the Slider, and directly above it on the Scale you find the number 10 which denotes the liquor is ten ⅌ cent above proof.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Peter Anspach, 20 December 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Anspach, Peter

Treasury Department Dec. 20. 1790.
Sir
I learn from your letter of the 7th. instant that you are willing to undertake the business proposed to you in mine of the 2d. instant. You will therefore consider yourself appointed as a Clerk in the Auditor’s Office from the day when you shall notify me that you have commenced the business. I wish therefore that you should without delay give public notice that all persons concerned may render their certificates, or other vouchers of their claim to you for the purpose of having them examined and stated to the Auditor in the manner directed. You will take care not to give any receipts that can strengthen the pretensions of the holders or give rise to any new ones, and therefore you will be guarded as to those receipts being in such form as to be passed off by persons, who may receive them, as a species of public obligation, for they can in no wise be deemed more than proofs of the deposit of the original vouchers for the purpose of settlement.
I rely upon your giving all such dispatch in this business as you may find practicable.
I am, Sir, Your obedient servant
A Hamilton
Mr. Peter Anspach.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Sharp Delany, 20 December 1790
From: Delany, Sharp
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] December 20, 1790. “Two ships belonging to Merchants of this City are arrived at the Capes, but on Acct of the Ice cannot proceed to this City their Port of Discharge. The owners have applied to enter their Ships, or if that cannot be done to know what steps they must pursue as the New Duties take place the beginning of next Month.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Henry Marchant, 20 December 1790
From: Marchant, Henry
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Newport, Rhode Island, December 20, 1790. “In pursuance of an Act of the Congress of the United States, to provide for mitigating or remitting the Forfeitures and Penalties accruing under the Revenue-Laws, in certain Cases therein mentioned I have recd. the Petition of William Brightman hereto annexed, and thereupon caused William Ellery, Collector, Robert Crooke Naval Officer and Danl. Lyman Surveyor of Newport District the Persons claiming a moiety of the Schooner Fly & her Cargo upon Forfeiture thereof, upon their Libel filed before me; if such Forfeiture should take place, and also William Channing Esqr. Attorney of the United States for this District to be noticed to appear before me and shew Cause if any they had against the mitigation or remission thereof, who severally appeared and declared, they had No Cause to offer, nor had they any Evidence to adduce against the Facts as set forth in the Petition of the said Brightman, Nor had they any Reason to disbelieve the same.… The facts as set forth in said Petition do appear to me to be just and true.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Seton, 20 December 1790
From: Seton, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York] 20th December 1790.
Sir
The President & Directors desire me to acknowledge the receipt of your two Letters of the 13th. and to express how very much they feel obliged to you, for your kind attention to this Institution and thereby to the Commerce of this City.
Whenever the Treasurer deposits the Bills on Amsterdam which you mention, the Strictest attention shall be paid to your orders with respect to the Sale of them.
Enclosed is the weekly returns.
I have the honor to be with the greatest respect &c


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Adams, [21 December 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Adams, John

[Philadelphia, December 21, 1790]
The Secretary of the Treasury presents his respects to the Vice President and sends him the report of The Trustees of the Sinking Fund with the Documents referred to in it, in Triplicates according to the direction of the Board. He begs leave to remind The Vice President that this is the last day; of course it is necessary it should be presented to day. He is sorry that it could not have been prepared sooner. But that for the President is under cover directed to him & that for the The House of Representatives is under cover directed to the Speaker so that nothing remains but to sign & transmit.
Decr. 21. 1790


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 21 December 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury Department Dec. 21. 1790.
Sir
The duties upon Hemp and cotton which took place the 1st. instant being included in the same clause—and there having been no duty before upon cotton it appears probable that it was not the intention of the legislature to make the 60 cents an additional duty. It is also observable that although Hemp was left among the articles subject to five per centum, this is not termed a further or additional duty, from which it appears they must have intended it as in lieu of the 5 per cent. In confirmation of this construction it is to be observed, that in the impost law of 1790, made after that now before me, hemp was not placed above 60 cents, which warrants the belief, that in the judgment of the legislature it was sufficient. Had the duty under the law of 1790 been equal or superior to 60 cents with the addition of 5 per centum, it would have countenanced the opinion that the duty of 60 cents was intended to be additional.
Upon the whole therefore I am of opinion that you may consistently with your duty confine the charge of impost to sixty cents per 112 lb upon the Hemp mentioned in your letter of the 6th. inst.
I am, Sir, Your obedient servant.
Alex Hamilton
Sharp Delany Esq.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Tutt, 21 December 1790
From: Tutt, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Fredericksburg, Virginia, December 21, 1790. Submits a bid on the contract to build a lighthouse on Cape Henry.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Nathaniel Appleton, 22 December 1790
From: Appleton, Nathaniel
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Boston, December 22, 1790. On April 28, 1791, Hamilton wrote to Appleton and referred to “your letter of the 22nd December.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from John Jay, 22 December 1790
From: Jay, John
To: Hamilton, Alexander

New York, December 22, 1790. Recommends that Matthew Clarkson be appointed an inspector of the revenue.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, [22 December 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

[Philadelphia, December 22, 1790]
Sir
I have the honor to send with this a short report on the Pay (Post) Master General’s letter.

From the circumstances of the case and a general impression that it is always best for the Chief Magistrate to be as little implicated as possible in the specific approbation of a particular measure proceeding from a particular officer, I believe it may be adviseable to answer generally that the President sees with pleasure the improvements made in the contracts for conveying the Mail; that he doubts not a judicious discretion has been exercised in relation to the several parts of them. That (especially where circumstances vary) there does not appear to be a strict obligation to prefer the lowest offer, and that in the case of Mr. Inskeep, the greater frequency of the transmission of the Mail, the concentration of the business under one direction and the experience of past good conduct are weighty reasons for the preference of his offer meditated by the Post Master General.
I have the honor to be   With the most respectful attachment Sir Your most Obedt & hum servant
A Hamilton
December 22d. 1790
The President of The United States


Title: Enclosure: [Report on the Letter from the Post Master General], 22 December 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Treasury Departmt. 22d. Decr. 1790.
The Secretary of the Treasury in obedience to the order of the President of the United States has examined the letter of the 16th. inst: from the Post Master General and the papers accompanying the same. The data they exhibit, do not appear sufficient to enable a judgment of the propriety generally of the Contracts made or intended; in order to which, the distances of the several posts, whether there were any other, and what offers, in each Case, and how far it was practicable in any, in which horses are to be used, to have substituted stages, ought to be known. It is however observable, that an improvment is made in the state of the thing. The Mails are to be conveyed at less expence, and in several cases, more frequently.
The only point which seems to be specifically brought forward to consideration is the intended Contract with Mr. Inskeep.
The Secretary agrees in opinion with the Post Master General, especially where the circumstances vary, that there is not a strict obligation to prefer the lowest offer. The greater frequency of conveyance is an object of moment. The Concentration of the business is a matter of considerable convenience, the rather as it may lead to its being done cheaper hereafter; & experience of good management on the part of Mr. Inskeep, is a motive of weight. These considerations probably justify the preference of his offer meditated by the Post Master General.
Alexander HamiltonSecy. of the Treasury.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to William Allibone, 23 December 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Allibone, William

[Philadelphia, December 23, 1790. On December 28, 1790, Allibone wrote to Hamilton: “In obedience to the Instructions I received the 23d Instant.” Letter not found.]


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Wilhem and Jan Willink, Nicholaas and Jacob Van Staphorst, and Nicholas Hubbard, 23 December 1790
From: Willink, Wilhem,Willink, Jan,Van Staphorst, Jacob,Van Staphorst, Nicholaas,Hubbard, Nicholas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Amsterdam, December 23, 1790. “Mr. Short informed us It was expected also, He should be able to fix more advantageous Conditions for the Charges of the future Loans, and notwithstanding We assured him the last Loan at Four and an half per Cent for Commission, Premiums, Brokerage, and all other Expences was as reasonable as It ought to be, as well as much cheaper than Russia and the other Powers of Europe paid, He stuck to this Point, with a Perseverance We must confess not to have a little surprized us: But considering the Relation We already have with the UnitedStates, and Injury any Application to others, would certainly have caused to their Credit and Interests, We consented to negotiate the future Five per Cent Loans, at Four per Cent, for Commission, Premiums, Brokerage & all other Charges, thereby offering a most unequivocal Testimony of the Value We set upon our Connexion with the United-States, and our Desire to satisfy and accomodate their Government all in our Power. Mr Short having assented to the Offer authorised us &c.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Nathaniel Fosdick, 24 December 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Fosdick, Nathaniel

Treasury Department,December 24. 1790.
Sir:
It is to be presumed that the Collectors cause all goods which are reported for exportation to be reshipped under the care of an Inspector; and that he draws the allowance, per diem, during the time he is engaged in this duty. This I apprehend is the only charge which arises on the service of Inspection prior to and during the shipment.
I am, Sir, Your obedient Servant,
Alex. Hamilton.
Nathaniel F. Fosdick, Esquire,Collector,Portland.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Jedediah Huntington, 24 December 1790
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Huntington, Jedediah

Treasury DepartmentDec. 24. 1790.
Sir
I have received your letter of the 3d. instant together with the contract for supplying the light house therein enclosed. I fear it will be difficult for the President to form an opinion of this agreement for want of the particulars. The quantities and prices of the requisite articles would afford better ground on which to judge; and I therefore request that you will endeavour to have the instrument so formed as to express these things. It would be well that it were not merely understood that the President’s approbation is necessary to the validity of the contract; a provisional clause to that effect would be proper in the body of it.
I am, Sir, very respectfully   Your obedt. servant
A Hamilton
Jedediah Huntington Esq.Collector, New London.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 24 December 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, December 24, 1790. “I have this day received your letter of the 13. instant. Contrary to what Mr Brown informed me was his intention, the ship Warren did not return from Newport to this port; but having completed her lading there, she sails, as I am informed, about this time for India. I have only to add that she lay four days in the harbour of Newport without any Papers entitling her to the privileges of a vessel of the United States.…”


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 27 December 1790
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom House Providence 27. Decem 1790.
Sir,
It frequently happens, in the Winter Season, that vessels, belonging and bound to this place, are obliged by the Ice, to stop off Warwick-Neck, just without this district, and about eleven miles from hence, where they are almost always unavoidably detained 24 hours, and often from two to fifteen days, and as the river is now frozen up, and several vessels are daily expected from Sea: I ask the favor, Sir, of your opinion, whether the masters of vessels in that situation, may not lawfully make their Protest, Report & Entry, within the limited time, at my office, having an Inspector from this district on board, without being obliged to go to Newport to enter a Protest; which is always attended with additional expence, and at this Season is dangerous and sometimes impracticable. Without this privilege, which I conceive may be granted consistent with the strictest collection of the duties, the Trade of this Town will labour under great embarrassments, operating as a heavy tax upon the Navigation; which would otherwise be avoided, and finally prove favorable to, by encreasing, the Revenue.
Should this indulgence be allowed, another question will naturally arise, respecting which I also beg your directions: it is this, Whether the owners of such vessels shall pay the Inspectors after 15 days from the time they go on board, or whether it shall be 15 days from the time they may reach the port of delivery and be in a situation to unload?
I enclose a draft of the Treasurer, in favor of Wm Seton, Esquire Cashier of the Bank of New York dated the 11. inst No 832 for five hundred dollars, which I have paid, and charged to the United States.
I have the honor to be, with great respect and esteem Sir, your most obedt & most hume servt
Jereh Olney Collr
Alexr Hamilton, Esq.Secy of the Treasury.


Title: Warrant of Remission in the Case of Robert Wasson, Master of the Sloop “Sally”, [27 December 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, December 27, 1790]
To all to whom these presents shall come I Alexander Hamilton Secretary of the Treasury of the United States send Greeting. Whereas a statement of facts with the petition of Robert Wasson of Norwalk in the State of Connecticut, Master of a Sloop called the Sally bound from Norwalk in the district of Connecticut to that of the State of New York thereto annexed touching a certain forfeiture and penalty incurred by the said Robert Wasson under the Statute of the United States intitled “An Act for registering and clearing vessels, regulating the coasting trade and for other purposes,” was on the second ultimo transmitted to me the said Secretary of the Treasury by direction of the Judge of the District Court of the District of New York pursuant to the Statute of the United States intitled “An Act to provide for mitigating or remitting the forfeitures and penalties accruing under the revenue laws in certain cases therein mentioned” as by the said statement of facts and petition remaining in the Treasury Department of the United States may fully appear. And Whereas I the said Secretary of the Treasury have maturely considered the said petition and statement, & it doth appear to my satisfaction that the penalty and forfeiture aforesaid were incurred without intention of fraud or wilful negligence, but inasmuch as no special circumstances are alleged wholly to excuse the omission whereby the same have been incurred and to exempt the parties from the imputation of some degree of carelessness and inattention to the law. It doth not appear expedient either to enforce the said penalty and forfeiture or wholly to remit the same. Therefore, Be it known that I the said Secretary of the Treasury in consideration of the premisses and by virtue of the power and authority to me given by the Statute last aforesaid, have remitted and by these presents do remit unto the said Robert Wasson his Executors and Administrators the penalty and forfeiture aforesaid but upon express condition nevertheless that he the said Robert Wasson his Executors or Administrators shall and do pay or cause to be paid unto the Collector of the District of New York for the benefit of such persons other than the United States who are interested in the said penalty or forfeiture one fourth part of the value of the articles of foreign growth or manufacture which are within stated to have been seized, together with all costs and charges attending the proceedings touching the premisses to be assessed as well the former as the latter by the Judge aforesaid.
Given under my hand and seal of Office in the City of Philadelphia, in the State of Pennsylvania this twenty seventh day of December, in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred and ninety and in the fifteenth year of the Independence of the United States.
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Seton, 28 December 1790
From: Seton, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[New York] 28th. December 1790.
Sir
I have received a Letter from the Treasurer upon the Subject of immediately passing to credit the drafts on the Collectors which I laid before the Board of Directors this day. The Copy of the Letter and the answer I have wrote by their orders, they have desired me to enclose to you (as the Treasurer makes no refference to what has formerly passed on this Subject) for your information.
The enclosed return of our Goldsmiths I fear you will find difficulty in comprehending, in truth they are not adepts in the Science, and yet they are the best we have, if the return of the weights of Dollars & Crowns was not sufficiently clear, I will have further tryals made. I find Mr Silva cannot give me the least intelligence respecting the Coin of Portugal.
I have the honor to be &c


Title: Enclosure: William Seton to Samuel Meredith, 28 December 1790
From: Seton, William
To: Meredith, Samuel

[New York] 28th. December 1790.
Sir
Agreably to what I had the honor to write you last night, I this day laid before the President & Directors, your Letter of the 23d. And they desire me to inform you, That on the 9th of this Month, having heard from public report that the Bank of North America had offered to give immediate Credit to the United States for such drafts as might be lodged there for Sale, The Board anxious to do every thing that could tend to facilitate the business of the Treasury, directed me to write to The Secretary offering to do the same at this Bank; his reply was, that the measure was under contemplation and that he was much obliged to this Bank for the offer; since which we have not heard further and have continued to sell the drafts as heretofore pointed out by the Secretary but the Directors are ready and willing to adopt the plan whenever the measure is determined upon.
I have the honor to be &c


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Benjamin Walker, 28 December 1790
From: Walker, Benjamin
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Paris 28th Decr. 1790
Sir,
When I obtained leave of absence from America for six Months my principal object was a visit to my friends whom I had not seen for twenty years but I also engaged to pass from London to this place during my stay in Europe in order to inspect into the proceedings of the Agents of the Scioto Company and adjust their accounts. I accordingly came here about a Month since and have found their affairs in so embarrassed a situation as to require my utmost exertions to save them from ruin. I have written them fully on the subject and have undertaken to promise that tho my leave of absence expires in March I will not desert their business till I have endeavoured to rescue it tho it should detain me longer. In fact the honor and interest of the United States is concerned in this affair for seven or Eight hundred Emigrants are now in America who have purchased and paid for lands for which the United States will never get a farthing unless I can rescue the business from the miserable situation it is in. I flatter myself therefore I shall not be blamed for the determination I have taken to remain and employ myself in this business until the March Packet arrives from America especially as I know the business of my Office is conducted by my deputy with all the application and integrity as if I was present.
As it is now out of all question that the Scioto Company will not be able to make good their Contracts with Congress I cannot help thinking that Congress will find it their Interest to agree to some new arrangement in which the Company shall be bound to pay for the land only as they want it. Under such an arrangement I have no doubt great quantities may be well disposed off and thousands of Emigrants be sent over. But to be bound to pay such large sums at any fixed period whether the land is disposed of or not is & ever will be too hazardous an undertaking for any set of Men to engage in. If the present Company can stand the shock of their heavy advances & can make such an arrangement as I mention, I have no doubt they may go on well and benefit themselves as well as their Country, at the same time holding out an Asylum for thousands whom the intestine divisions of Europe will for some time to come will oblige to seek happiness elsewhere.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, [29 December 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

[Philadelphia, December 29, 1790]
Dear Sir
When I answered your letter concerning Mr Burges’s Vessel, being in a hurry, I trusted to my recollection of the act; but having since more particularly adverted to the terms of it, I entertain a doubt of the justness of the opinion then given. I wish therefore the affair may be considered as Standing for further consideration. I mean to take the Attorney General’s opinion; when you will hear further from me.
I remain with Very great regard   Dear Sir   Your Obed Servant
Alex Hamilton
PhiladelphiaDec 29, 1790
Benjn Lincoln Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Otho H. Williams, 29 December [1790]
From: Williams, Otho H.
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore 29th. December [1790]
Sir.
The Brigantine Hope, No. 52, was registered in this district on the eleventh day of October last, at the instance of Mr. Stephen Zacharie the Owner. The Vessel was purchased for him at a foreign Port, where the laws of Congress was not sufficiently attended to and the form prescibed by the eleventh section of the law for Registering & clearing of Vessels &c was not observed. The Master appeared, produced the Original Certificate of Registry, corroborated the evidence of the transfer, and Mr. Zacharie proved his property, upon which a new certificate of Registry was granted. But, as the form of transfer prescribed by Law could not be complied with, I consider the vessel not “entitled to any of the benefits, or advantages, of a Ship, or Vessel, of the United States.” The Certificate of Registry does not bear any mark of this defect in the Article of transfer, and I make this communication that the Officers of the other districts may be informed of the circumstance.
It may not be improper for me to observe that the law for Registering and Clearing of Vessels &c. Does not provide what evidence of a transfer shall be sufficient to justify a Collector to grant a new Certificate of Registry, or a Licence. But “the Person, or Persons, claiming property in any such Ship, or Vessel,” may obtain such Certificate, or Licence, upon Oath, or affirmation. As the nature of contracts admits of so much ambiguity as that two men may possibly be conscious of having each a distinct and entire property in the same thing, The admitting of an Oath to ascertain the Proprietary of vessels, especially after Papers have been granted, appears to me to be peculiar to that sort of Property, and liable to much abuse.
I am, Sir, Your Most Obedient   Humble Servant
O.H. Williams Collr.
A Hamilton Esqr. Sec of Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James Pearson, 30 December 1790
From: Pearson, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, December 30, 1790. Submit a bid for the contract to build the lighthouse at Cape Henry.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Short, 30 December 1790
From: Short, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Amsterdam Dec. 30. 1790
Sir
My letter of the 18th. enclosing a duplicate of that of the 2d. inst. with other papers has been detained until now, because the American vessel by which I have thought it best to send it, has not yet sailed. As her departure seems at length finally decided for tomorrow, I annex this letter merely to inform you that the circumstances of the loan remain as when I last had the honor of writing to you. It is not apprehended that the measures which will be probably pursued by the courts of London & Berlin (& which will be in all likelihood the most influential that will take place on the European stage in the course of the next year) will be prejudicial to the U. States. Should they effect a peace, our loans will become more easy. Should a serious war between them & Russia be the consequence, it seems probable that the U.S. would gain as much by those who would be induced to sell out of the English funds, as they would lose by the excedent of the Russian demand or in other words, their proportion of the money floating here & searching for some place to depose itself, would not be diminished. I mentioned to you in my letter of the 2d inst. that opinions here differed however as to the effect which war issues have on those interested in the English funds. It is probable the losses sustained by selling out of those funds during the last war & soon after the peace may render many who then suffered, very tenacious at present, still I can not help thinking that if they saw England once engaged in a dubious war, they would take the alarm & communicate it to each other. In this opinion I am confirmed by several judicious & well informed people here. Whether they would consider the war with Russia such an one, must depend on future contingencies with which I am not acquainted, & which are probably not yet ascertained even to those cabinets which will take part in the business. My conjecture is however, that a general peace will be effected in the course of the next year—that is, either that Russia will give peace to the Turk during this winter or that she will be forced to do it by the interference of England & Prussia in the Spring.
So much for the European politics which may have an influence on the loans of the U.S. As to the politics of America which may have a similar influence I can only say that the resolution of the committee of the whole in the house of Representatives of Virginia is known here to several persons. I do not find as yet that they think it will have any bad influence on the intended loan—indeed I suppose we may be certain it will not, if it is carried no further than a simple resolution of one or of even both the housesenonciatory only of their opinion as to the assumption of the state debts.
Another circumstance which might influence our loans here is the negotiation set on foot at Paris for the purchase of the debt due to France: My last letter will have informed you fully of that business. I have since heard nothing further respecting it so that I take it for granted that it will end there as I had desired. Having offered to enter into the negoiations as far as my powers permitted, we shall not appear in the unfavorable light of having absolutely refused an accommodation to the present commissionaries of France; & thus remove a pretext for making loans here on the American debt as a pledge. I have good reason to believe that this idea has been again renewed with the French ministry by some bankers of that nation settled here & that nation’s in Paris. They have probably stated that the U.S. mean to apply the first two millions of dollars of their loans here to the purchase of their domestic debt that consequently the payments to France will be retarded. M. du Fresne & the bankers of the French court here have both pressed to know when the next payments will be made. As I am not acquainted with your views I have chosen to say as little as possible on the subject, & have confined myself within the terms of my verbal communication made to M. de Montmorin in consequence of the letter I recieved from the Secretary of State of August 26.

This communication is probably not fully retained by the minister whose mind averse to occupation is kept in constant employment by the present situation of affairs in France; but the present abundance of assignats will keep them quiet, as to our debt & prevent their adopting measures proposed as to pledging it for a loan. Besides M. de Montmorin has given me assurances that he, & of course the ministry, will adopt no measure respecting the debt without first communicating it to me. But if they should find that we made loans here without making them remittances, they might possibly be prevailed on by the number of speculators who are watching every opportunity of jobbing in the debt, to do something in it which might be favorable to their purposes—they would then probably make use of the assembly, or some of its committees, to force the ministry to this. Still I suppose the loans may be so appropriated as by remitting a part to leave the rest to your operations on the domestic debt; & that without the risk just mentioned.
If the Genoese or other capitalists in the French funds could be induced to transfer their interests there to the American funds here, this would leave the whole of the loans to be made at present, to your disposition to be employed within the U.S. which is much to be desired under the present advantageous circumstances. The French stock is now taking an immense rise; should the exchange not fall in proportion, it would seem probable that many would make use of the present moment for transferring their stock elsewhere without loss. The rise in the funds is owing to the considerable re-imbursements made by the emission of the assignats; it is to be apprehended that the same cause will depreciate the assignats & of course reduce the exchange still lower—otherwise I think it not impossible that some of these may turn their attention to the American debt & wish to make use of it as a medium for transferring their stock, on terms not disadvantageous to the U.S. & of course much to be desired for the reason abovementioned. Should I be able to find that such a disposition was gaining ground I will immediately inform you of it. In a rise of that kind it would be a desirable circumstance for the U.S. to stipulate the alternative (on the new obligations they would give to replace those at present held by France) of paying the interest & re-imbursements either here or at Genoa. This would be the best means of making an experiment for the establishment of a credit at that place. Many advantages might be expected in the future operations of the U.S. from having a credit in more than one place.
I have been endeavouring though in vain as yet, to procure for you a list of all the principal loans made here since our independence—this will be the best means of establishing the rate of interest here since that time which you wished to know. I mentioned in a former letter that it might be estimated as being 4. p. cent fifteen years ago: I should rather fix it, on further examination at 3½.—the rapid rise took place here in consequence of the loans made by France on engaging in the war & the advantageous terms she gave.
I have the honor to be with perfect respect & attachment, Sir, your most obedient humble servant
W: Short
Honble Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tench Coxe, [31 December 1790]
From: Coxe, Tench
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, December 31, 1790]
Dear sir
You will find enclosed a very rough copy of Leslies improvement of the proposition of Hatton and Whitehurst—for an invariable Standard of length, capacity & weight. This is his original corrected &ca. by me of wch. Mr Jefferson has the fair copy. Genl. S. will be able to make it out.
The printed roll contains a plan of state finance proposed by Mr. R Morris, which having relation to the Bank I send for your perusal—also some other papers on that subject.
Yr. mo. respectful Servt.

T Coxe
Decr. 31.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, [December 1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

Treasury Department [December, 1790]
Sir
I have considered the case of the two vessels belonging to the port of Philadelphia which have arrived at the Capes of Delaware. The law does not authorize the receiving in any custom house, reports and entries of vessels that are not within the district to which it appertains. The only method therefore, as it appears to me, by which the owners can effect an entry in this or any other case is to apply to the custom house, within the limits of which the vessels are.
I am, Sir, Your obedt. servant
Alex Hamilton
Sharp Delany Esquire.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Goodhue, [1790]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Goodhue, Benjamin

[Philadelphia, 1790]
D Sir
As the subject of the inclosed letter is of consequence to the Whale Fishery I send it to you to read & will be glad to converse with you about it tomorrow.
Yr Obed serv
A Hamilton


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from James McHenry, 3 January 1791
From: McHenry, James
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Baltimore 3 Jany. 1791.
My dear Sir.
You may think I have neglected you from my long silence, but I can assure you I have never forgot you. Having withdrawn myself from every thing of a public nature, this has led me to endeavour to reduce my pleasures as much as possible to a small compass, and this to neglect many correspondents for whom I entertain the liveliest affection. That I love and esteem you, I know you will believe without my repeating it. Your career as yet has been glorious. I wish sincerely that nothing adverse may interrupt it.
You owe this short reassurance of my regards to Capn. Barney who has a desire to be personally known to you. I introduce him with pleasure. He is a man of many valuable qualities, and well-known for his distinguished services during the war. As yet however he is to receive his reward. I believe he goes up to Congress with the intention to petition for commutation, on the expences incurred in his captivity.
Pray present me to Mrs. Hamilton. I have learned from a friend of yours that she has as far as the comparison will hold as much merit as your treasurer as you have as treasurer of the wealth of the United States.
Adieu my dear Secretary and believe me unchangeably yours
James McHenry
I approve of your bank plan. I see you have accommodated a little but it is under such restrictions ⟨— c⟩annot let it injure.


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

[New York] 3 Jany 1791
Sir
I have the honor to inform you that this day I have sold the Treasurers Bills on Amsterdam for 25,000 Guilders to Different persons at the price you limitted of 36/4/11 Ninetieths per Guilder payable by Notes at 90 Days, in which Notes I have included the Interest for 33 Days, as all the purchasers chose to avail themselves of that indulgence, given in your Letter of the 24 Decbr. I have no doubt that the Notes taken will be certainly & punctually discharged when due as the Names of both Drawers & Endorsers are esteemed indubitably good.
From the demand this day, I should suppose a much larger amount might be sold readily, if the whole sum to be drawn for is not already Disposed of, as there are at Present very few Drawers on London.
I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect.


Title: Receipt from Andrew Brown, [5 January 1791]
From: Brown, Andrew
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, January 5, 1791]

1790. Honble Alexander Hamilton Esq. To Andrew Brown Dr

£
s
d

Novr 15.

    To an advertisement a Pocket Book lost
    }

0
6
3

Decr 11.

      To Do, A coachman wanted 20 times
      }

1
7
6

1
13
9

Philadelphia 5th Jany 1791
Recd of Mr Andrew Fraunces four dollars and fifty cents being the Amount of the said Bill.
Andw: Brown


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 5 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury DepartmentJanuary 5th. 1791
The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to inform the President of the United States that in pursuance of his instructions, due public notice was given in the Gazettes of Virginia and of the principal sea ports of the United States, that proposals would be received at the Treasury office untill the 31st. Ultimo, for building by Contract a Light-house, and the necessary appurtenances at Cape Henry, a copy of which notification is among the papers in this enclosure; That in consequence of this measure seven setts of propositions have been delivered or transmitted by Companies or
Individuals which will also be found among the papers enclosed and are numbered from 1 to 7; that on due examination of the terms proposed, those marked No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, No. 5, & No. 6. do not appear, as the Secretary humbly conceives, at all consistent with the interest of the United States; that the propositions marked No. 4 & No. 7. not only appear to be more advantageous, but to be on terms more favourable than those on which the two similar establishments of New York & Philadelphia were erected before the revolution. In examining these two it will be perceived that although the proposals of Mr. Clarke are the lowest, yet his building contains much fewer cubic feet of wall, than that of Mr. Macomb, & consequently will cost him considerably less; and that its base at the surface of the Earth is but three fourths of that required; which on a sandy foundation, and in a very exposed situation may hazard the whole structure. The buildings specified in the proposition of Mr. Macomb would undoubtedly cost much less if reduced to the size of those of Mr. Clarke. They are nearly such as those erected on Sandy hook and Cape Henlopen, the latter of which has been in a great measure taken as a model. These establishments appear to have borne the test of repeated examination, and the trial of time. They are on ground similar to Cape Henry, and there can be no doubt, but that the extent of their bases contributes to their stability. Of the two propositions contained in No. 4. that for hewn stone at 15,200 dollars, on account of the superior weight & strength of that material, will probably be found most capable of going through those trials by wind & weather to which such buildings are peculiarly subjected. It remains for the President to determine whether the hazard, of a more contracted diameter on a sandy foundation and in a situation of extreme exposure, is not sufficient to deter from a plan untried, as far as is known, in any but a covert situation, and to give a preference to a building like that designated in the notification; and finally to signify his pleasure, which, or whether either, of the several proposals now submitted, shall be accepted.
Alexander HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: Enclosure: [Memorandum of Proposals Received for Erecting a Light-House at Cape Henry], [5 January 1791]
From:
To:

[Philadelphia, January 5, 1791]

  Memorandum of proposals received from sundry persons, for erecting a Light-house and appurtenant buildings at Cape Henry.

    No. 1.
    by Lemuel Carter of Norfolk to be built of Brick above the foundation; according to proposals in the Virginia Gazettes.

    Dollars. 24,000.

    No. 2.
    by Moore & Robinson of New York; according to proposals in Greenleaf’s paper, & to the elevation exhibited.

          if of Brick —
          Dls.   21.842.

    by the same —If of hammered stone
    22.342.

    the payments as may be agreed.

    No. 3.
    By James Pearson of Philada. of Brick according to proposals published, except the diameter at the top of the Walls.

    22.133.20

    by the same—of hewn stone & hammer dressed &c.
    25.466.60

    by the same—of larger dismensions
    27.333.30

    No. 4.
    By John McComb Junr. of New York according to the proposals,

    If of hewn stone
    Dollars 15.200.

    If of Brick faced with hewn stone
          14.900.

    This person is recommended by the Chief Justice of the United States, & the Sheriff of the City & County of New York. He also produced a letter from Messrs. Nicholas Cruger and Peter Kemble of New York as his sureties; either of these would afford sufficient security to the United States.

    No. 5.

   This person is recommended by the Honble James Munroe Esqr. of Virginia.
James Tutt of Fredericksburg, Virginia

    Upon the plan of the notification, except facing with hewn ashler instead of dressed stone 19.502 ¼

    No. 6.
    By Thomas Warren & others of Richmond, Virginia;

    If of hewn stone—
    Dollars 40.000.

    Ditto of Brick —
          38.333 ⅓

    These persons are recommended by the Governor of Virginia.

    No. 7.
    by Joseph Clarke of Annapolis.

    On a plan of his own & of dimensions smaller than those specified in the notifications Dollars, 13,000.

    This person is recommended by the Governor of Maryland & the Collector of Annapolis.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 6 January 1791
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Providence, January 6, 1791. “I beg leave to call your friendly attention to the enclosed statement of the emoluments of this office; by which it appears that the net amount thereof will be only about 200 Dolls ⅌ annum. The extreme inadequacy of this sum to the services performed, obliges me to entreat of you to lay the matter before the Legislature for their information; not doubting but they will think that some further provision ought to be made, not only for me, but for other Officers in similar situations.… I enclose my return of Cash for the week past the balance of which, being in specie, is 1.474. Dolls & 76 cents. I also enclose a draft of the Treasurer, in favor of Wm Seton Esquire, dated the 22d of December last no 847. for Four hundred Dollars, which I have paid, and charged to the United States.”


Title: Report on Appropriations of Money for Certain Purposes, [6 January 1791]
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

[Philadelphia, January 6, 1791Communicated on January 6, 1791]
[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]

  The Secretary of the Treasury respectfully reports to the House of Representatives, the Estimates herewith transmitted, No. 1, 2, 3 and 4.

  The first relating to the Civil List, or the Expenditure for the support of   Government, during the year 1791, amounting to
  Dollars 299.276.53.

  The second exhibiting some additional objects of expenditure arising out of the laws for collecting the duties on imports and tonnage, for making provision for the public debt, for the maintenance and support of light

     houses &c, and for executing certain Surveys of land, amounting to
  50.756. 7

  The third relating to the department of war, shewing the stated expenditure   of that Department for a year
  202.179.46.

  The probable extra-expense of the late expedition under General Harmar
  100.000.

  The amount of military pensions for a year
  87.463.60.6

  Pay and Subsistence to sundry officers, for which no Appropriation has yet   been made
     556.48.

  Amounting altogether to,
  Dollars, 740.232.14.6

As appears by No. 4, which contains a summary of the three preceding ones; and shews in one view, the total sum as above stated, for which an appropriation is requisite.
The funds now at the disposal of the Legislature for this purpose, are the 600.000 dollars reserved annually out of the duties on imports and tonnage, by the Act making provision for the debt of the United States, for the support of the government thereof, and certain surpluses arising on former appropriations for the current service, in consequence of over-estimates, and some other circumstances.
It is probable, that these two sources will be equal to the object; but as the amount of these surpluses is not definitively ascertained, it appears to be expedient, that the appropriation should embrace some additional resource.
The product, during this year, of whatever duties may be laid in the present Session, as a farther provision for the public debt, may, with propriety, be resorted to for the purpose; as the interest, which will be payable on the amount of the State-debts assumed by the United States, will not begin to accrue till after the end of the year; and it is calculated, that the product of the duties, within each year, will be adequate to the payment of the interest of such year.
The Secretary begs leave to remind the House of Representatives, that no provision has been made for payment of interest to the foreign Officers beyond the year 1788. In his report of the fifth day of August last, he submitted the expediency of discharging the principal of their debt, which bears an interest of six per centum per annum, payable in Paris; but the advanced period of the Session prevented a discussion of the matter. The propriety of this measure, and the necessity of a provision for the interest, are again humbly submitted.

The Secretary also begs leave to state to the House, that representations have been made to him, by several of the Commissioners of loans, respecting the extraordinary expense occasioned to them, in the first instance, in the execution of the Act making provision for the debt of the United States, and the inadequateness of their compensations. Considerations relative to the public service, as well as to the officers themselves, require an acknowledgment that these representations are not without foundation.
The quantity and pressure of business which arise in receiving subscriptions, in liquidating and cancelling the old certificates, and issuing new ones in their stead; in counting and examining the old bills of credit; in making entries and furnishing returns, to the Treasury, necessarily require much additional clerkship; the expense of which, united with that of providing different setts of books, and other stationary in considerable quantity, must, in some cases, exhaust, nearly if not altogether, the whole salaries of the officers, and in others, so considerable a part of them, as to leave a very incompetent recompence for the services to be performed.
All which is submitted,
Alexander HamiltonSecretary of the Treasury
Treasury-department; January 6th. 1791.


Title: Report on Duties Arising on Tonnage, for the Year Ending September 30, 1790, [6 January 1791]
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Muhlenberg, Frederick A. C.,Speaker of the House of Representatives

Treasury Department. January 6th. 1791.[Communicated on January 6, 1791]
[To the Speaker of the House of Representatives]
Sir,
I have the honor to inform you, that prior to the receipt of the order of the House of Representatives of the 30th. ultimo, the formation of several returns of the nature of those designated in their resolution, had been commenced at the Treasury. It had been deemed expedient to make them up, so as to include the space of one year, in order that they might exhibit the annual course of that part of the public business. One of those returns being a general Abstract of the duties on the tonnage employed in the United States for one year, having been completed, as far as the custom-house returns will admit, it is herein transmitted. Those of the impost and exports, for the same space of time, will be sent as soon as they shall be completed; and the summary returns, which are requisite to fulfil the order of the House, will also be made with the utmost expedition.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, Your most obedient, and most humble servant,
Alexander Hamilton,Secry. of the Treasury.
The Honble. F. A Muhlenberg,Speaker of the House of Representatives


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to George Washington, 6 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Washington, George

Treasury DepartmentJanuary 6th. 1791
The Secretary of the Treasury has the honor respectfully to transmit to the President of the United States an account of the cost of a seal for the use of the District Court of Maine, on which he begs leave to remark, that there does not occur any reason to deem it immoderate. The Legislature having by their resolution of the 2nd. of August last assigned a part of the fund provided for the contingent expences of government by their Act of the 26th. day of March last to the discharge of this species of claim upon the United States and having committed that sum entirely to the President, he will be pleased to signify whether this account shall be paid at the Treasury, & charged there to that account.
Alexander HamiltonSecy. of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tobias Lear, 7 January 1791
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, January 7, 1791. Transmits “a Warrant appointing Joseph Greenleaf Keeper of the Light house at Portland in the District of Maine.”


Title: Report on Duties on Imports, [7 January 1791]
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Muhlenberg, Frederick A. C.,Speaker of the House of Representatives

Treasury Department. January 7th: 1791[Communicated on January 7, 1791]
Sir,
In addition to the papers transmitted yesterday, I have the honor to inclose you two Abstracts of the Duties on Imports into the United States; one exhibiting the sum received from the commencement of the operation of the impost act, to the 30th. of September 1789; and the other shewing, as far as the returns have been transmitted, the sum received for one year following that day.
None of the collectors have yet furnished their returns for the last quarter of the year 1790, for want of time, it is presumed, to make them up.
I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Sir, Your most obedient and most humble servant,
Alexander Hamilton,Secretary of the Treasury.
The Honble Frederick A: MuhlenbergSpeaker of the House of Representatives.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Jeremiah Olney, 10 January 1791
From: Olney, Jeremiah
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Custom House Providence 10: Jany 1791.
Sir,
By a misconception of the Law respecting the 10 ⅌ cent discount on goods imported in American vessels, which ’till within a few days, I supposed to cease on the first day of October last, the balance of 16.314 dolls & 45¼ cents which appears by my accounts transmitted on the 3. inst, to be due to the United States is 1.114 dolls & 72 cents more than it should be, this sum being the amount of the 10. ⅌ cent omitted to be deducted from the duties arising on merchandise imported into this district during the last quarter; the true balance therefore to be passed to the credit of the United States in my Books, is 15.199 Ds & 73¼ cents agreeably to the enclosed statement.
I enclose my return of Exports for the last quarter, amounting in value, to 56.362 Dollars and 99 cents.
I have the honor to be very respectfully, Sir, your most obedt & most hume servt
Jereh Olney Collr
Alexr Hamilton EsqSecry of the Treasury.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Seton, 10 January 1791
From: Seton, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Bank of New York 10. Jany. 1791
Sir
I have the honor to enclose you Mr. Silva’s answer respecting the weight & fineness of the Portugal Coin, which is all the information he can give.
When The Treasurer of The United States sends the Bills on Amsterdam for 100,000 Guilders as mentioned in your Letter of they shall be disposed of agreable to your orders.
I have the honor to be with the greatest respect   Sir, Your Obed. Hme Sert.
Wm Seton Casr.
Alexr. Hamilton EsqrSecretary to The Treasury of The United States


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Thomas Jefferson, 11 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Jefferson, Thomas

Philadelphia January the 11th 1791
Dear Sir
I have perused with attention your intended report to the President; and will, as I am sure is your wish, give you my opinion with frankness.
As far as a summary examination enables me to judge, I agree in your interpretation of the Treaty. The exemption sought does not appear to be claimable as a right.
But I am not equally well satisfied of the policy of granting it on the ground you suggest. This, in my mind, stands in a very questionable shape. Though there be a collateral consideration, there is a want of reciprocity in the thing itself; and this in a circumstance which materially affects the general policy of our navigation system. The tendency of the measure would be to place French Vessels upon an equal footing with our own, in our ports, while our Vessels in the ports of France may be subjected to all the duties which are there laid on the mass of foreign Vessels. I say the mass of foreign vessels because the title of “most favoured nation” is a very extensive one—the terms being almost words of course in Commercial Treaties. And consequently our own Vessels in the carrying Trade between the United States & France would be in a worse situation than French Vessels. This is the necessary result of equal privileges on on[e] side, and unequal on the other, in favour of the Vessels of France.
Though in the present state of the French Navigation little would be to be apprehended from the Regulation; yet when the probable increase of that Navigation under free Government is considered, it can hardly be deemed safe to calculate future consequences from the actual situation in this respect.
And if the principle of the Regulation cannot be deemed safe in a permanent view, it ought not to be admitted temporarily; for inconvenient precedents are always embarrassing.
On the whole I should be of opinion that the introduction of such a principle without immediate reciprocity, would be a high price for the advantage which it is intended to compensate.
It will no doubt have occurred to you that the fund has been mortgaged for the public Debt. I do not however mention this as an insuperable objection but it would be essential that the same act which should destroy this source of revenue should provide an equivalent. This I consider as a rule which ought to be sacred, as it affects public Credit.
I have the honor to be With the sincerest esteem & regard   Dear Sir   Your Obed serv
A Hamilton
PS. If you have any spare set of the printed papers I should be obliged by having them.
Thomas Jefferson Esqr


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Tobias Lear, 11 January 1791
From: Lear, Tobias
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia, January 11, 1791. “The President of the United States having duly considered the subject of building a Light House on Cape Henry in Virginia, as submitted to him on the 5th Instant by the Secretary of the Treasury … it appears to him that the proposal made by John McComb Junr. of New York is most advantageous to the United States, and he is therefore of opinion that the Contract should be entered into with him.…”


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Commissioners of Loans, 11 January 1791
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Commissioners of Loans

[Philadelphia, January 11, 1791. On January 26, 1791, Nathaniel Appleton wrote to Hamilton: “Your circular favour of 11 instant is recd.” Circular not found.]


Title: Treasury Department Circular to the Governors of the States, 14 January 1791
From: Treasury Department,Hamilton, Alexander
To: Governors of the States

Treasury DepartmentJanuary 14. 1791
Sir
It is necessary to the adjustment of the public accounts, that the officers of the Treasury should be informed what sums in final settlement certificates were paid over to the several states by the agents for settling the accounts of their respective lines in the late army. The statements of those agents are the only documents on the subject of which the United States are possessed, and it will be readily perceived that they ought not to be accepted as satisfactory vouchers. I am therefore obliged to request the favor of your directing a return of the sum received by your state to be made out as expeditiously as may be convenient, and transmitted to this office.
I have the honor to be very respectfully   Sir Your most obedt. servant
Alexander HamiltonSecy of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from William Short, 15 January 1791
From: Short, William
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Amsterdam Jan. 15. 1791.
Sir
Contrary winds have prevented any vessel leaving the Texel since the month of November. The several letters therefore which I have had the honor of writing you by that may still remain there. This unexpected delay is the more unfortunate as it is in those letters alone that I have spoken fully on the subjects about which you must be impatient to hear. I preferred making use of this chanel for reasons that are obvious. I hope my letters sent from hence by the way of England to yourself & the Secretary of State will have been more fortunate, as they will announce those thus detained. This will be put on board of a vessel bound for New-York which is going down to the Texel to wait only for a change of the wind. I inclose in it a duplicate of that of the 18th. of Dec. It was not sent with my letter of the 30th. of Dec. because that was forwarded to the Texel to go by the same vessel which had recieved here the original. With it I forwarded also a duplicate of that of Dec. 2.

I have the honor Sir of inclosing you also at present a letter from the agents of the U.S. here which they sent me open with a desire that I would read it & approving it, forward it to you. It is dated the 23d. of the last month although I recieved it only five or six days ago. I have no observation to make on any part of this letter except the expression which relates to the engagement to negotiate the future five p. cent loans at 4. p. cent commisison. In the rough draught of this letter which these gentlemen communicated to me & begged I would make my observations on, it was expressed in such a manner that it led to a belief that I had stipulated with them that the commission was to be raised whenever the interest was reduced. On my recalling to them the only circumstance which ever passed relative to this subject they agreed without hesitation to change it.
The circumstance was this—after they had proposed the 4. p. cent commission & I had accepted it in this manner already related to you in my letter of Dec. 2. one of these gentlemen observed that if in future there was an opportunity of reducing the interest of the loans of Congress by raising the commission of the undertakers, it would not be expected that that rise was to be made by their sacrifices & of course that it must be by the U.S. I answered that future changes becoming necessarily subjects of future discussion it was useless to examine them at present, & that the U.S. would always decide for themselves when & on what terms it would be for their advantage to attempt to reduce the interest of their loans—here the conversation ended. The change they have made still leaves the expression of five p. cent loans. But it can do no harm as in fact we shall be at liberty at the end of each loan to change the agentsthemselves if we think proper. Permanent arrangements for the continuation of the loans besides that I should not have thought myself authorized to have made them would have been impolitic, as it is evident the U.S. alone would have been bound by them—for should any unexpected event have rendered the augmentation of the premium necessary they would, if they judged it for their interest, have insisted on it & the U.S. would have been obliged to have subscribed to it at the risk of failing in their loans—on the contrary if the premium could be lowered the agents would recieve the benefit of it. As the matter stands at present should an opportunity present itself of lowering the terms of commission (which however I am more & more persuaded every day must be done by diminishing the number, & not the profits, of the persons employed) there is a perfect right to make use of it. The agents also will be on the lookout as well as you or those you chuse to send here, for the moment when it will be proper to attempt a reduction of the interest, & you will be at liberty to negotiate the terms you may think proper.
A few days ago a loan on the American funds for twelve hundred thousand guilders was brought on the market by the house of Van Staphorst & others. I enclose you an original & translation of the scheme of the loan. By it the interest is to be six p. cent—but the funds are rated & sold at par viz. those of the six p. cent stock at 100. p. cent & those of the three p. cent at 50. Hitherto in all cases of these loans they not only gave six p. cent as the rate of interest but a considerable profit also on the sale of the funds. A large part of this loan is already engaged as they tell me. The house of V. Staphorst pretends that this will benefit the future loans of Congress, as it will probably prevent others being made on the liquidated debt of the U.S.; since other houses will aim also now at selling them at par, & in that case the terms being less advantageous to the lenders less will be loaned—the price of those funds being now settled at par here must also necessarily raise them in America & of course benefit the credit of the U.S. The house of Willink is not interested in this loan & wished much to have it postponed. This house thinks that such a loan will be of service in future to the loans of the U.S. for the reasons just mentioned, but will retard that which they are now about to make, by being brought on the market so short a time before it. They wished therefore to have induced the V. Staphorsts to have postponed theirs until after that for the U.S. should be filled. These objected that if they did not bring on the loan they know others that would & persisted in it.
Mr. Willink has told me since this loan was public, that in his conversation with the other house respecting it they told him they had communicated it to me & that I had not objected to it. The truth is however that they had never given me to understand that they were to be concerned in such a loan. In a conversation some time ago on the prejudice done to the loans of Congress by those made on the liquidated debt, one of them (Mr. Hubbard) told me he knew of another of about 1,200,000 guilders which would be probably brought on the market. This is unquestionably what was alluded to when they spoke to Mr. Willink. It seems that the object of Mr. H’s conversation with me was that he might be able if necessary to say that he had mentioned the subject to me & at the same time to do it in such a manner as to give me no opportunity of making objections to the loans wch. I certainly would have done if I had supposed that its being brought on depended on their house. This is being perhaps less candid than he ought to have been, but there is no remedy for it in this stage of the business. I am glad to find that Mr. Willink thinks from the manner in which this loan is going on that it will be less prejudicial for the present even that might have been expected. My own opinion however is that it will necessarily occasion some delay; because a part of the money vested in it would of course have been placed in the loan of the U.S. & consequently the owners of that money would have been impatient for such a loan & also because some of those who have the bonds of Congress yielding only five p. cent might be persuaded to sell them in order to vest that money at six p. cent. There are only few who will do this, they say, but still these few will contribute to the number of the American bonds in circulation here for sale—or in other words to keep down the price & thus retard the proper moment for a loan.
Of the 325. bonds mentioned to be remaining in their hands several have been since taken up, & the undertakers who subscribed for them at the opening of the loan have recieved notice that they must take up the rest in the course of this month. They have hitherto not been pressed because as you had made no appropriation of the money it was thought as well to save the U.S. the interest which mounts from the times of the bonds being taken up. Besides it is possible from the circumstances under which this loan was made that the undertakers had been provided such delays. These bonds being thus provided for in the course of this month & considerable payments being to be made on account of the U.S. in the beginning of the next will no doubt contribute favorably to the preparation for the new loan. The agents are then to have a meeting with the brokers. They continue to tell me that every thing bids fair for the market being ready for the new loan in the early part of the month. It seems to me however that the brokers are of that opinion, at least as far as I can judge from conversations with them. Stadnitzki & Saportas who are two of the principals think it will not before the end of the month. The latter thinks that the Van Staphorsts’ loan will render this delay necessary, the former, who is concerned in the loan, says it cannot produce that effect, but that the price of the American bonds having not risen yet as was expected, it would be wrong to percipitate a new loan. We shall see in a short time whether they will retain the same opinion when convened & consulted by the agents. I do not doubt you will enter into the propriety of waiting patiently rather than attempting to force circumstances in a case like this where it can do no good & might do much harm.
You will recieve inclosed a letter written to me by Messrs. Schweizer Jeanneret & Co by which you will see sir, that they are disposed to wait for the decision of the President on the proposals they made & which I forwarded to you with my letter of Dec. 18. I suppose it useless to add any thing further on their subject as the several papers already sent will have put you fully in possession of it. An additional reason urged to me lately by Mr. Swan of Boston (whom they push forward in this business) in favor of this scheme, is that if it is not adopted, the other company, with whom I believe he is also concerned, will be sure to force the ministry by means of the committee of finance to accept theirs, which is much less advantageous for the U.S. This consideration however appears to me to deserve little weight. Should the minister have written to the French chargé des affaires on this subject as these people say, you will be better able to appreciate the real sentiments of the court from what he will tell you. It is possible also that the letter may have been written merely on the sollicitation of this company in order to insure their proposals being properly represented & supported. Mr. Swan urged further that the debt being once transferred to Genoa, the interest & reimbursements might be paid there by merchants recieving the money of the Treasury in America & contracting to replace it at Genoa, which they would do by again contracting with the merchants of Marseilles, Genoa, Leghorn &c for dried codfish; so that the money would remain in the U.S. & the foreign debt be payed by the productions of our industry. I do not see that this advantage is peculiar to the Genoese schemes. Whenever the U.S. proceed to a real payment of their foreign debt in whatever part of Europe it be, it will be done probably by the means of our commerce. This will at the same time add to its activity, by serving as a new medium, & Envite to keep the excedent of our exportations as much as possible above the importations in order to settle the balance in this way.
It is easy to follow this idea & see that the evil of a foreign debt like many others may be made to assist in curing itself. At present however I cannot persuade myself that the advantage to be gained by transferring our debt from France to any other country can be equivalent to that which would be lost on the exchange. For although it is possible that the exchange will not during the whole course of our payments be as much against France as at present yet it seems inevitable that it must for a long time be much against her, as well on account of the assignats as the present state of her commerce & particularly the situation of her islands.
Funds continue rising in France, owing as I mentioned in my last to the considerable re-imbursements made by the emission of Assignats. They do not seem yet to have been depreciated as might have been expected by that emission, & the exchange continues the same. Still I do not find that the Genoese or other foreigners who have their money in the French funds are siezing this opportunity of transferring it. They are perhaps waiting in hopes of the relative price of stock & exchange becoming still more favorable for such a transfer.
My inquiries with respect to Italy have confirmed the opinion that no part of that country except Genoa could hold out any prospect of a loan. As to this place I learn by different ways that the money lenders there are rather stock jobbers than real lenders—that their usage is to wait until funds are at their lowest & then buy into them—that it is by this means that they have become deeply interested in the French funds & that their purchases there were many of them made in such a manner as to yield an interest of 10. p. cent—& that they wish to get out of them now because they are alarmed by the paper money—that few foreign original loans have been made in Genoa & these on very high terms. Still it would be so much for the advantage of a power to be able to make loans at more than one place that it seems to me no proper opportunity should be lost of trying to establish a credit for the U.S. at some other place besides Amsterdam. This may be effected at Genoa perhaps at some future period by means of our debt to France & the situation of affairs in that country, when the government & resources of the U.S. shall have been more tried & become better known. At present however I see no probability of success to a loan there; but I must add that my inquiries have been necessarily made in such a manner that I cannot give the result as matter of certainty.
I have just learned from M. de la fayette that Colo. Walker had left with him a large packet addressed to me & with the seal of the Treasury office. He understood that its contents were not pressing & has therefore thought it improper to send it to me by post. I suppose it the state of our foreign debt to which you allude in your letter of Sep. 1. & if so I shall have no occasion for it here.
I have the honor to be with sentiments of the most perfect respect & attachment, sir, Your most obedient humble servant
W. Short
The Honble Alexander Hamilton Secretary of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Caleb Gibbs, 16 January 1791
From: Gibbs, Caleb
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Barree [Massachusetts] Jany. 16th. 1791
My Dear Freind
I did myself the honor to address you the 7th. of Novr. last from Boston, and therein mentioned the subject of Mr. Tracy’s affair, which I was informed by Mr. Flint, had been refferred to you by Congress the last session, and that there was a probability of his claim being granted. I do My Freind most earnestly intreat of you to give me one line respecting this business and if Mr. Tracy’s claim is good and granted that I may have the earliest information of it. It is my all my whole dependence, My freind, and for a moment consider if I had those notes which I lent him including the Intrest due on them, would this day neet me little short of fifteen hunddred pounds specie. This is an undeniable fact, and for the want of this hard earned money I have been obliged to retire where I now am living in a recluse line of life with my amiable wife and family incountering many disagreable difficulties and to work pretty hard for a decent support.
Mr. Tracy not coming forward as he ought to have done within the four months granted him, leaves me at Liberty to imbrace the perogative of the Cavaat lodged in the Comptrolers office, and if he should have more due him from the United States than the Cavaat specifies, I do not see (if I am in season) why there is not a probability of my recovering the whole of my property, provided there is a sufficiency due him from the United States. Let me My best freind again repeat my solicitations to you to let me know respecting this business. And in the mean time to inform me if nothing is yet in your power sufficient to call me from this place. Mrs. Gibbs would go with me almost any where if a Comfortable competence offers (even with the strictest oeconomy) and can be obtained. Perhaps something within your own sphere can be found. Think of me My good Sir and notwithstanding the Presidents forgetfulness of me a hint from you I know would answer every purpose. Let me be persuaded I shall hear from you within a short period of time. People in Boston (I mean the Better sort) began to talk when I was last there and if I dare I would tell you, but this must be let alone for the present or at least till I have the pleasure of seeing you if ever. Thus much I will say that you was not the last person spoke of, and very great enquiries of me about you, knowing I had been acquainted with you in former times.
If you will do me the honor of a line, please let it be directed to the Care of the Post Master at Worcester & then I shall certainly get it.
Let me conjure you by every tie of regard & friendship not to forget me but that in a short time I shall hear from you with agreable and consoling tidings.
With the greatest respect I have the honor to be   Dear Sir   Your most Obedient humble Servant
C Gibbs.
P.S. I beg you to offer me in terms of the greatest respect to your good Lady. I leave you to make your own comments on the paper. Writing &c
Honle. Alexander Hamilton Esqr. &c. &c. &c.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 17 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury Department, January 17, 1791. Encloses “the Presidents commission for Mr. Joseph Greenleaf as keeper of the light house of Portland.”


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

Custom House Providence 17. Jany 1791.
Sir,
The ships Vigilant and Hope, belonging and bound to this place from foreign Ports, were by distress of weather obliged, on the 25. & 27 December, to put into New London, where they were admitted to an entry, and the duties secured to be there paid. They have since arrived here with their Cargoes; and I observe, by an estimate of the duties on that of the Vigilant, that none were demanded on half a barrel of oranges, two barrels of limes, one case of pickles and thirty Coconuts: as there is no exemption in the old, any more than in the new Collection law for those articles, I have uniformly collected the duty on all which have been imported into this district since my office was opened; but if it was the intention of the Legislature to lay it only on such articles of that kind as are brought into the United States for sale, it is necessary, for my future government, to have your opinion and instructions relative thereto, for tho’ I have constantly endeavoured, to the best of my knowledge, to act with the utmost impartiality; yet I have been repeatedly censured by the merchants for my strictness in executing the Revenue Laws; and the late instances respecting the above mentioned Ships at New London (where to ascertain the amount of the duties 7 &½ ⅌ cent was deducted from the Master’s account of the Hope’s Cargo, consisting of between six and seven thousand bushels of Salt) will I fear afford fresh cause of complaint; which, however unpleasing, I shall disregard while I have your approbation in the discharge of the trust reposed in me. But if I could avoid the former, without forfeiting the latter, it would give me great satisfaction; and this I imagine might be effected by an uniformity of practice in the Custom Houses throughout the Union. The desire of this alone, has prompted me to acquaint you with the above circumstances, without the most distant wish or intention of censuring the conduct of General Huntington, whom I highly respect and esteem. I beg leave Sir, to intreat your directions whether I must continue to demand the duty on Sweetmeats and Fruit not brought for Sale? And your opinion whether it is warrantable on any occasion (except to estimate the duties on part of a Cargo, destined to another district, in order to secure them by a temporary bond) to ascertain the quantity of any dutiable article, imported into the United States from a foreign Port, in any other way than by counting, measuring, gauging or weighing by the proper officer appointed for the purpose.
With the greatest respect and esteem   I have the honor to be, Sir   your most obedt & most huml servt.
Jereh Olney Collr
Alexr Hamilton, Esqr.Secry of the Treasury


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Smith, 17 January 1791
From: Smith, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Philadelphia] January 17, 1791. “… Very large returns for the issue of Indents are in hand & will be forwarded as soon as the business of the Office will permit. The subscriptions to the Loan are increasing very rapidly this Month.”


Title: Meeting of the Commissioners of the Sinking Fund, 18 January 1791
From: Commissioners of the Sinking Fund
To:

Philadelphia, January 18th, 1791.
Met pursuant to notice:
John Adams, Vice President of the United States;
Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of State;
Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury; and
Edmund Randolph, Attorney General.
The Secretary of the Treasury informed the Board, that the funds of the United States permit the application of the further sum of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, to the purposes of the act establishing the Board. Whereupon,
Resolved, That fifty thousand dollars be forthwith expended, for the purposes aforesaid, in each of the cities of Boston, Philadelphia, and Richmond, under the direction of the collector of Boston, in Boston; of the Treasurer of the United States, in Philadelphia; and of the collector of Bermuda Hundred, in Richmond.
Ordered, That the foregoing resolution be presented by the Vice President to the President of the United States.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Thomas Mifflin, 18 January 1791
From: Mifflin, Thomas
To: Hamilton, Alexander

Philadelphia, January 18, 1791. “In compliance with your request, I have directed the Comptroller General to make out a statement of the Sums in final Certificates, which were paid over to this State, by the Agents for settling the Accounts of the Pennsylvania line, in the late Army.… As soon as the Comptroller has compleated the enquiry,… I will chearfully transmit the result.…”


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to John Wheelock, 18 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Wheelock, John

[Philadelphia, January 18, 1791. On the verso of Wheelock’s letter to Hamilton on November 8, 1790, Hamilton wrote: “Answered January 18. 1791.” Letter not found.]


Title: Conversation with George Beckwith, 19[–20] January 1791
From: Beckwith, George,Hamilton, Alexander
To:

Philadelphia January 19th. [–20] 1791
Mr. Beckwith. I take the liberty of speaking very freely to you on every subject, and upon this principle give me leave to remark, that I was sorry to observe a certain warmth of expression in one paragraph of the address of Your House of Representatives, in reply to The President’s speech, which respected your commerce and navigation.
Mr. —— You know perfectly, that we have different opinions with us, as I have frequently told you; there is a Party which retaining those prejudices that were produced by the civil war, think nothing good can come from Great Britain, and that our obligations to France are never to be forgotten, and you are no stranger to the opinions of the gentleman who drew up that address. There are also worthy individuals with us, who are led to believe that by going into regulations which might cramp your trade to this country, that is, by advocating a system for a discrimintion of duties, in favor of nations with whom we have treaties, it would lead to the attainment of a commercial treaty with England which they wish; and there is likewise a party, who from every circumstance, are convinced, that you are the nation with whom we can trade to the greatest advantage: from these discordant sentiments it is difficult not to do something on this subject, and I think in the course of the present Sessions we shall adopt in a degree the idea furnished by your Navigation Act, the effect of which will be to restrain your shipping from being the carriers to our Markets of other produce or manufacture than that of your own dominions (in all parts of the world) or of carrying from hence, excepting to your possessions, either at home or abroad; we shall have no prohibited articles: from the returns in my office, these regulations will not be of any consequence to the shipping of Great Britain.
The Fifty Cents (or half dollar) a ton, on foreign tonnage operates as an equivalent for the light money we pay; the ten per Cent difference in the duties on imports in foreign bottoms, is “as you once remarked” confessedly in our favor.
Philadelphia January 20th.
Mr. Beckwith. I am so strongly disposed to believe favorably of our good dispositions towards the States that I wish to know whether the arrival of the December packet from England, may not have caused some alteration in the ideas you held out yesterday.
Mr. —— We learn by many private letters from London received last night that your administration have declared their intention of appointing a minister to this country, and a gentleman’s name is also mentioned it is a circumstance which I am glad of in many respects, it will, I hope, pave the way for a future good understanding, and put an end to the suggestions of that party with us, who wishing well to a French interest, take every occasion to insinuate that we are held in no consideration by the English government.
Upon the subject of commerce and navigation, which I mentioned to you yesterday, I think, I can assure you that nothing will take place during the present Session, to the injury of your trade.


Title: To Alexander Hamilton from Robert Troup, [19 January 1791]
From: Troup, Robert
To: Hamilton, Alexander

[Albany, January 19, 1791]
My dear friend
About an hour ago the election of Senator was brought on in the assembly. Burr succeeded by a decided majority. He has a decided Majority also in the Senate. The thing therefore may be considered as settled. The twistings, combinations, and maneuvers to accomplish this object are incredible. I was this moment attending a court of Chancery. The Chancellor is singularly happy. It would take a quire of paper to give you a minute detail of our present situation. We are going headlong into the bitterest opposition to the Genl Government. I pity you Most sincerly, for I know that you have not a wish but what is combined with the solid honor & interests of America. Delenda est carthago is the maxim applied to your administration. My advice to you is to continue as you have done—preface all your reports with the readiness upon which they are grounded. The time will come when your enemies will blush they are in opposition to you.
As to myself I believe I shall withdraw from politics for the present. I am disgusted to my heart.
God bless you
Rob Troup
19 Jan. 1791
A Hamilton Esq

2 oClock P: M.
P.S. Since writing the above Swartwout has been with me. The Senate he says concurred in Burr’s appointment. There were but 4 Votes for Schuyler—Gansevoort, Patroon, Micheau and Livingston voted for him. Fonda & Schuyler were absent. Swartwout is my author. If Fonda & Schuyler had been present things would not have been altered.
R T


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Benjamin Lincoln, 21 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Lincoln, Benjamin

Treasury DepartmentJanuary 21st. 1791.
Sir
I have received your letter of the 16th. of October from which I find that a cutter of near 64 Tons is thought of for your coast. The terms of 22½ Drs. per ton are very satisfactory, but unless the construction of the Vessel is so far advanced as to prevent a diminution of the size, I request that she may be confined to the smallest dimensions that are deemed consistent with safety on your coast, however eligible a larger one might be. The New York cutter is to be of forty seven or forty eight feet keel straight rabbit, 15 feet beam, 4½ feet hold, and about thirty five Tons, and she is thought quite equal to the trials of that coast which are at times extreme.
The cutter building at Hampton is of the following dimensions—40 feet straight rabbit, 17 feet beam and 6½ feet hold, measuring forty seven Tons and there has been no suggestion of doubt in regard to her sufficiency altho’ there are no gales more severe than some of those on that station. Should you stand engaged by your contract, and should the builder refuse a variation of it (which I hope will not be the case if it can be done now and is not really improper) you will of course pursue the execution of it.
I would however wish that one of the Boats be omitted and such other things as can be spared or omitted in the supplies or finishing.
I am, Sir, very respectfully   Your Obedt. Servt.
Benjamin Lincoln Esqr.Collector, Boston.


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Sharp Delany, 22 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Delany, Sharp

[Philadelphia, January 22, 1791. The dealer’s catalogue description of this letter reads: “Authorizing a cutter to be built for the Delaware station under the supervision of Captain Montgomery.” Letter not found.]


Title: From Alexander Hamilton to Otho H. Williams, 22 January 1791
From: Hamilton, Alexander
To: Williams, Otho H.

Treasury DepartmentJanuary 22d. 1791.
Sir
It being deemed necessary to proceed in the building of the Cutter for the Maryland station I have now to request that you will immediately proceed in the business.
It may be well that you should be informed that the Massachusetts Cutter has been contracted for at Newburyport at about 22½ Dollars per Ton fitted completely as a vessel with sails, rigging, anchors &ca. including two Boats, one of which would be sufficient for the present. The Cutter for New York has been agreed for upon the terms already communicated, and that for Hampton is expected to be completed for 1,000 Dollars. Her heel is 40 feet straight rabbit and burden 40 tons. I hoped that building in Baltimore would prove as cheap as the medium of those three places and therefore expected that 1,000 Dollars would have been adequate to the building & fitting a proper vessel. I authorise you however to exceed that price, if necessary by 10 perCent, but not more. You will of course engage the punctual and vigilant attention of Captain Gross to building and fitting this Cutter.
I am, Sir, very respectfully   Your Obedt. Servt.
Alex Hamilton
P.S. As it will be necessary to complete a certain number of these Boats immediately, I enclose you a letter to the Collector of Hampton in Virginia, which it will be necessary to dispatch to him, in case you should not be able to execute the Order for the Cutter within my limits. It will be contrary to my wishes that she should be built in any other place than Maryland, bu⟨t I need⟩ not remark to you, that local considerations must be ever postponed to solid public advantage.
Otho H Williams Esqr.Collector for Baltimore