RICHARDSON , Secretary to Hamilton Fish, June 7, 1873

Mr. Richardson to Mr. Fish.

Sir: I inclose herewith a communication, dated the 5th instant, from Mr. Bartlett, esq., covering certain papers relative to the imposition by the British government in the West Africa settlements of a high duty upon rum and tobacco, imported there from foreign countries. Mr. Bartlett complains that the duty in question was imposed without reasonable notice being given, and alleges that at the time it took effect he had certain vessels on said coast with cargoes of before-mentioned articles, upon which he sustained great loss, by reason of the sudden imposition of said duty.

The papers are respectfully referred to you for such action as you may deem proper.

I am, &c.,