From Alexander Hamilton to Richard Harison, [3 July 1790]
To Richard Harison
[New York, July 3, 1790]
Sir
The Collection law1 rates the ruble of Russia at 100 Cents. The 3d. Section of the act to explain the act “for registering and clearing vessels” &c2 declares that so much of the Collection law as rates the ruble of Russia at 100 Cents be and that the same is thereby repealed and made null and void.
Discounts have been allowed by some of the Collectors on bonds taken prior to the passing of the repealing Act; the ruble of Russia having been rated too high.
Were they warranted in so doing? Or in other words—Is there any peculiarity in the wording of the repealing clause, which gives it a retrospective operation?
I am Sir Yr. Obed serv
Alexander Hamilton
Richard Harrison Esqr
ALS, New-York Historical Society, New York City.
1. 29–49 (July 31, 1789).
2. “An Act to explain and amend an Act, intituled ‘An Act for registering and clearing Vessels, regulating the Coasting Trade, and for other purposes’” ( 94–95 [September 29, 1789]).