LETTER TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, 1 Feb. 1850

(The following is an extract from a letter written by Chris Wm. Skinner to the US Secretary of the Navy regarding American hemp, which was then in competition with Russian hemp).

On the 26th of June, 1846, a contract was made with the American Hemp Company to furnish 250 tons annually for three years, at $210 per ton if delivered at Charlestown navy-yard. On the 13th of July, same year, a contract was made with Mr. Gideon J. Pillow for 90 tons, in three annual deliveries, at $200 per ton. On the 29th August, same year, a contract was made with George W. Billings for 330 tons, in three annual deliveries: first delivery at $220 per ton; second at $210 per ton; and the third at $200 per ton.