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we must, in the first place, apply the rule adopted in the present.and preceding 
tariff bills, and multiply the proposed duty on wool (eleven and a half cents) by 
four, the number of pounds of wool to a pound of finished cloth.” 
It will be observed that this rule is made absolute and without qualification. 
Mo matter whether the wool of which the imported cloth is made shrinks in the 
process of manufacture four pounds or two pounds, the duty is increased upon 
one principle, and aggregates the cost of all imported woollens alike. Whether 
the increased duty imposed on foreign wool and woollens increases to the same 
extent the price of the domestic product, is a question which experience will 
answer. ‘'hat it has done so in the case of other staple articles, like teas, sugars, 
coffee, and spices, any one can satisfy himself by comparing prices before and 
after the passage of the several tariff acts increasing duties; and that it will so 
operate in all other instances where consumption is not greatly interrupted and 
where a large surplus has not accumulated on the market, cannot be doubted. 
The question as to the ratio of shrinkage of the various wools is therefore en- 
tirely irrelevant, inasmuch as if four cents is imposed on woollens forevery one 
cent imposed on wool, irrespective of shrinkage, then prices will be enhanced 
in this proportion. If the shrinkage on foreign wool is not, as the wool-growers 
and manufacturers assume, in the ratio of four of wool to one of cloth, then the 
protection asked for on woollens is more than is equable and necessary ; but the 
tax once imposed, the enhancement of prices takes place in the manner indicated. 
I am yours, most respectfully, 
DAVID A. WELLS, + 
United States Special Commissioner of Revenue. 
Hon. Isaac Newton, 
Commissioner of Agriculture. 
