Thomas Jefferson Papers
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From Thomas Jefferson to Albert Gallatin, 17 July 1801

To Albert Gallatin

July 17. 1801.

Th: Jefferson to the
Secretary of the [Treasury]

The act concerning duties &c where it says that ‘the President is authorised to establish such place at or near Michillimakinac to be the port of entry,’ might have been construed to leave it discretionary in him to do it or not, had it not been followed by the imperative words ‘a collector shall be appointed.’ this seems to remove the ambiguity of the former words, and to make it a duty to bring those districts into action. if mr Gallatin will be pleased to institute the proper enquiries as to places & persons, the whole may be established at the same time.

The anonimous letter from Savanna is inclosed to suggest to mr G. the enquiry whether measures have been taken to supply that port as well as others. health and affectionate salutations.

RC (NHi: Gallatin Papers); mistakenly directed to the secretary of the “Navy”; addressed: “The Secretary of the Treasury”; endorsed by Gallatin: “West & North Districts import.” PrC (DLC); with “Treasury” written over “Navy” by TJ in ink. Enclosure: Anonymous to TJ, 23 June, Savannah (recorded in SJL as received 16 July and sent to “T” but not found).

For the act concerning duties, see Albert Gallatin’s Report on Collector for Michilimackinac, 16 July.

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