1423. COMMERCE, Restrictions on.—
The question is, in what way may best be
removed, modified or counteracted, the restrictions
on the commerce and navigation
of the United States? As to commerce, two
methods occur. 1. By friendly arrangements
with the several nations with whom these
restrictions exist: Or, 2, by the separate
act of our own legislatures for countervailing
their effects. There can be no doubt
but that of these two, friendly arrangement
is the most eligible. * * * Friendly arrangements
are preferable with all who will come
into them; and we should carry into such arrangements
all the liberality and spirit of
accommodation which the nature of the case
will admit.—
Report on Foreign Commerce and Navigation. Washington ed. vii, 645. 650.
Ford ed., vi, 479-483.
(Dec. 1793)
