Louisville 5 Decr 1829
My Dear Sir
I have accompanied our friend Genl Fullerton this far and shall
return probably this afternoon to Cincinnati— I have suggested
to the General a speculation which I think promises great benefits
and I have no doubt of its practicability— It is the procuring the
exclusive right of navigating the Texas waters Say the Colorado
the Brasos and the Trinity by Steam—The Genl and myself would
be happy to unite with you in this [s]cheme if the monopoly could
be obtained 20 or 25 years or even for 15 years it would be an
immense affair Should the U. S get the territory— Should you
think well of the proposition you are hereby authorized to sign
my name to a petition to that effect— I beg you will think seriously
of the matter—and if you do will summon up all your ingenuity
in drafting a petition so as [not] to leave a single flaw for the
jealousy of this government to pick at— It should [be] So drawn
as to embrace not only the rivers but all passes and passages from
one river to the other—the Netchez might also be included— I
have only time to hint at this matter—Genl Fullerton will explain
my views more fully to you— in haste
David G. Burnet [Rubric]
Col. S. F. Austin
San Felipe