Page:Mexico in 1827 Vol 1.djvu/499

Rh which no specific valuation was fixed, and which were, consequently, estimated by the valuation of India Cottons, (to which they were supposed most to approximate,) with a reduction in the valuations in proportion to the inferiority of the goods.

Thus, India Cottons were estimated at four and five reals per vara, and British, (of the same widths) at two and three reals; on which valuations the duties were calculated, and paid.

This arrangement remained in force for upwards of two years, with the implied (though not specific) approbation of the Government; and was regarded, by the merchants, as equally valid with the other articles of the Tariff, upon the faith of which the Trade with Mexico was conducted: Cottons became one of the principal articles of importation, and the sale was so favourable in 1825, that very extensive orders were given for 1826, no less than five vessels with cargoes principally of Cotton goods, having entered the ports of Veracruz, and Tampico, in October and November of that year.

But, at the very moment when these vessels were about to clear, a question was raised in the Senate,