City of New York Octr 25. 1832
Mr Dear Sir
I arrived here from Matamoros on the 22 July last at the height of
the prevailing epidemic; and found the City nearly abandoned and
all business virtually suspended. And it is only within this month
that the inhabitants have returned to their homes and things
begin to assume their usual aspect. This information, which has
doubtless been partially anticipated, will account for the apparent
apathy in the land companies, for whose progress I had made
arrangements. I am now here for the first time that an assemblage of
the company could be had since the cholera, and in a few days they
will have organised their plans of operation, and go to work to
introduce settlers. It is more than probable I shall come on to
Texas as early as practicable to fix resident agents on the respective
grants, and get the colonization fairly under way. But whether I
undertake this or not, it will not change my determination to visit
your country this winter; and I hope to see you at St. Felipe in
December at farthest.
I am fully persuaded the Galveston company will go on with
spirit, and you may expect from them a full cooperation in all
your views. Your movements in Texas I have learnt with no little
interest, and see you have taken the first step for a change in your
government,—declaring in favor of a seperate State. This
doubtless can be readily effected so soon as quiet is restored to the Republic.
The news here is that Bustamente has been completely routed by
Montesuma, and is a fugitive. Padraza has returned, at the repeated
solicitation of Santa Anna, and by his resuming the Presidency will
end the contest and restore the constitution. We are on the eve of
our Presidential election, and Jackson must be reelected by an
overwhelming majority. The goubernatorial elections of Ohio, Keny
and Pensa—have been Jackson—ohio by an immense majority—
I hope to see you when I visit your country, because I have much
to say to you, and many important subjects to submit to your
consideration deeply interesting to us both and to the country. Should
you return to Leona Vicario before I arrive or be absent leave a
letter saying what will be your movements.
I think it more than probable you have been induced to forego
your inclination to retire from public life and will be found at the
Legislature in January— much to my disappointment, it is said
that Bravo has been chosen President—should our old friend Graves
be with you assure him of my cordial remembrance, and accept for
yourself my most friendly regards
John T. Mason
P. S. I sent your letter to Ed Hawes on my arrival: but have heard
nothing from him, I have not been in Keny. I hope the Governor
has appointed a commissioner for these grants: if not please have
it done as early as practicable. My expectation was you would
return to Saltillo and have this done when there—-
[Addressed:] Colonel Stephen F. Austin St. Felipe de Austin Texas