Title
[Document, 1794 May 06]
Library Location
Name
Hamilton, Alexander, 1757-1804 (Author)
Jay, John, 1745-1829 (Addressee)
Format
correspondence
Digital Project
Papers of John Jay
Date
May 06, 1794
Language
English
Physical Description
7 pages
Subjects
United States--History--Constitutional period, 1789-1809; Jay, John, 1745-1829
Summary
Because of lack of leisure to confer with Jay concerning Britain, he takes opportunity to reduce his thoughts to writing. First, it is necessary that any indemnification for British maritime depredations be substantial, and not merely nominal. If solid arrangements can be made concerning unexecuted parts of 1783 treaty perhaps some less rigorous stand may be taken in regard to indemnification. In regard to Britain's stand that neutrals should not be able to conduct, in time of war, any trade that would be prohibited in time of peace, it should be shown that United States had right to trade with French colonies in time of peace. Point out West Indies' dependence on H.S. for foodstuffs, and the market in United States for British manufactured goods. Cites a prior departure from British Navigation Acts, which may serve to weaken Britain's argument against trade with United States Navigation of Mississippi River of immense importance- will serve to unite United States if free navigation is secured. Possible Britain's aid in securing navigation of Mississippi may be secured through offering her certain concessions in this regard. This will have to be approached delicately considering the present state of negotiations with Spain. Commercial treaty with Britain not to be concluded until referred to Philadelphia for approval.
Identifier
columbia.jay.10765