Montgomery County Missouri 5th Jan. 1822
Sir having understood that you had a conditional contract with
the Spanish Government for a grant of land to considerable extent
and that you had undertaken on your part to introduce a certain
quantity of Families as as Settlers on the land I have entertained
thoughts of emigrating to that country in fact it is determined
upon there is a number of my acquaintances that wish to go with
me or to the Same neighbourhood that I may Settle in. Some
families are too poor to bear their own weight on the Journey.
The question is whether would I be intitled to a Larger donation
From you Should I Take the Burden upon myself to procure them
the means of get[t]ing to that country Some Families will come
with me others will not venture until I return and report I hope
that you will do me the favour to rite to me on the Subject I wish
to be informed of the complexion of the political horison of that
country the probable expence of Freight from new Orleans to
matagorda or the most Elligible landing place in your country the terms
held out by you to Setlers in general and Sir I remain with sincere
regard yours &c
James Beatty
[Addressed:] Stephen F. Austin Esqr Colorado Province of Texas