7181. RECIPROCITY, Justice and.—
On the restoration of peace in Europe, that
portion of the general carrying trade which
had fallen to our share during the war, was
abridged by the returning competition of
the belligerent powers. This was to be expected,
and was just. But in addition we
find in some parts of Europe monopolizing
discriminations, which, in the form of duties,
tend effectually to prohibit the carrying
thither our own produce in our own vessels.
From existing amities, and a spirit of justice,
it is hoped that friendly discussion will
produce a fair and adequate reciprocity. But
should false calculations of interest defeat
our hope, it rests with the Legislature to
decide whether they will not meet inequalities
abroad with countervailing inequalities
at home, or provide for the evil in any other
way.—
Second Annual Message. Washington ed. viii, 16.
Ford ed., viii, 182.
(Dec. 1802)
