Nacogs 29 Oct 1830
Dear Sir
Coln Piedras it appears has of late received orders, not to suffer
any persons to pass here, unless they have actually made a Contract,
either with yourself or Dewitt; or have a passport, from the Mexican
Consul—in case of a previous Contract being made he requires
Documents to that effect-— He has a strong disposition to strictly
adhere to his order
The bearer brot with him such voucher as the Colonization Law
required—and presented himself to the Alcalde but it appears the
Ayuntamiento have not the power of judging of the qualifications
requisite, as the Coln took them from the Alcaldies office, and acted
on them himself— you will readily see the embarresments, it will
place those Innocent persons under, that Emigrate to the Country
in good faith; and rarely with much surplus Means— It must have
the effect to retard Emigration and as a good wisher of the Country,
I have always used my feeble exertions to encourage its settlement
You are I presume acquainted with the late regulations on the
subject of Terans reserves etc—or I would say more— If you
have any friends Emigrating on the Road, that will pass thro this
place, would it not be well to give Coln Piedras a List of the Names,
which would supersede the necessity of there riding to Sn Phillepe,
and perhaps much difficulty.
I am induced to write to you, as I am told many families are
expected—and the advance season will not admit of there delaying
much time on the Road—
Coln S. F. Austin F. Thorn
P. S. I start for N. Orleans Tomorrow, and expect to be absent 2 Months
F. T
as I deem it expedient that you should receive this as soon as
possible, I send it on by mail, under the direction of Colo Ruis, for
it is out of my power to see you myself for a few days
[Addressed] : Coln S. F. Austin. St. Phillipe de Austin favd by
Mr. [Alexander] Thomson