I inclose to your Lordship an original letter of the Cherokee Chief
Richard Fields, informing me of the movements of the Comanches,
and other particulars.
I had already received, a few days since, a similar notice from a
Chickasaw Indian, and I am convinced that, next fall, the Indians
will unite to make a grand effort upon the frontier particularly that
of Texas.
We are not well prepared here to resist an attack. More than one
half of these people are awaiting the decision of Congress in regard
to their slaves, as they intend to leave the Country if their
emancipation is decreed. They are already making preparations for their
journey. The remainder of the settlers are so disheartened that they
have no energy to make an effort. Therefore, if the slaves are
emancipated the government must not depend upon the assistance of this
militia. It is to be feared that the tardiness in making provisions
for the friendly Indians will dissatisfy them; which would be
unfortunate, as 100 Cherokee warriors are decidedly superior to 500
Comanches.
God and Liberty.
Stephen F. Austin.
San Felipe de Austin, September 11th 1826.