Thomas Jefferson Papers

To Thomas Jefferson from Albert Gallatin, 11 December 1806

Decer. 11th 1806

Dear Sir

The revenue law directs that all the inferior custom house officers shall be appointed by the collector with the approbation of the Secretary of the Treasury. I have heretofore approved in every instance; indeed the responsibility ought to rest on the collector, nor is there any reason to interfere unless some apparent impropriety should strike at first view.

I now enclose a letter from Mr Christie, my answer, and two letters from Messrs Moore & M’Creary on the subject of the removal proposed. I asked the opinion of those gentlemen, because I had always understood that Eifelbercher the weigh-master was respectable & a steady republican. It seems to me that with that information I ought to disapprove the removal & proposed appointment, but this being on my part a new procedure, I beg leave to submit it to you before I act. With respectful attachment Your obedt. Servt.

Albert Gallatin

The nett profits of the office of weigh-master at Baltimore must be above two thousand dollars a year.

DLC: Papers of Thomas Jefferson.

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