John Adams to William Smith, May 27, 1789

New York May 27 th 1789

Dear Sir—

I have received your obliging Letter of the 19 th . a drawback on Rum exported is admitted by the House, and I believe will not be taken off by the Senate. The duty on Molasses will be reduced to 4 Cents and I hope to three. Your Reasoning appears to be very just and I think will prevail. The jealousies Distilleries and Breweries are natural and cannot be wholly prevented: but I hope they will not mislead us. The Subject has been argued in the Senate with great Candour and Moderation, and with a single eye to the public good— The result I hope will give satisfaction. Apologies are so far from being necessary that I shall be much obliged to you for any information on the Subject My Regards to M rs Smith and Miss Betsey— 1 M rs Adams I hope to see in New york in ten or fifteen days at furthest. M rs Washington arrived this day. 2 I am with much Esteem D r Sir / y r Friend & humble Servant

J Adams.