New Orleans, 29th December 1825
Sir,
As Chief Magistrate of this State, I take the liberty to address
you upon a subject of Deep interest to many of our Citizens. It
has been represented to me from a source that may be relied on, that
a number of slaves and horses of the inhabitants residing near the
Sabine, in the Western section of the State, have been stolen and
carried into the Province of Texas, by a lawless banditti associated
for the purpose; and that many Dishonest Debtors, who fly from
justice here, taking with them in some instances, property mortgaged
for the payment of their Debts, take refuge in the said Province.
Indeed, I am informed that property mortgaged here for a large
amount has been thus carried off.
Relying upon your high character, the people feel assured that
you will cheerfully do all in your power to prevent the recurrence
of the evils complained of. I should feel much gratified, Sir, to
learn for the information of those interested, what steps should be
adopted, best calculated to put a stop to such outrages, and for the
recovery of the Debts alluded to.
Connected as your settlement is with this State, it is important to
both, that harmony should prevail, and that a friendly intercourse
should be carried between them. So far as may depend upon the
exercise of my authority, the object shall be effected.
H. Johnson [Governor of Louisana.]
Col. Stephen A. [sic] Austin