New Orleans December 15th 1824
Deak Sir I have Ritten before I Left home and about Mr.
William Smethers I have sent him a Knife to Cut his throat if he
Denies me Sending him the horse and you will be so Good as to Get the
horse and for setting my Improvement I will send out some Person
or you must have it Rented out. for I am envolved so much that I
Cannot Come But will try and send Out do write me every
opportunity and Respects to Col Pettice and except for yourself
John Botts
I would send you some articles But Mr. Parker has more than he
Can take himself but I send you a Cake of sope and a quire of Paper
as I shall expect to here from you often
yours With Respect
JB
[Addressed:] Col Stephen F Austin Brasses River Province of
Texas
Politeness Mr Parker