At. Bells Monday morning July 25, 1834
D Sir,
I enclose you a letter from Mr. Jack of S. Fellipe to Mr.
McKinney—It contains some important information in regard to affairs
in the interior-—An open falling out between S. Anna and Congress—
But what I wish to call your attention to in the letter, is that part
of it which speaks of Mr. Almonte being in S. Fellipe, and his
opinions in regard to Colo Austin— The business of this Gentleman
in Texas, as he says himself—was to learn the actual condition of
things here, the feelings of the people etc. The Government
according to his statement, had been receiving contradictory rumors in
relation to Texas for a good while, some representing it preparing
for rebellion, and others again contradicting all this— It appears
he is well pleased with the appearance of things, and says he will
make favorable representations to the Government.— and gives
it as his opinion that Colo. Austin will soon be released—
This appears to put rather a new face upon the subject—so much
so, that I have thought, you and others might be inclined to think
perhaps, that the trip of Jack and myself might be unnecessary—
For myself I scarcely know what to think—the distractions in the
Interior make all judgment no better than guessing-— In such a
state of things I am doubtful of everything, and as much of any good
we can do by going on as of any thing else—
If the S. Anna party holds out a while, Almonte as he belongs to
it of course, will undoubtedly be able to do a great deal-— But if
the party goes down, perhaps his influence may go with it— But
of this we know nothing, and as I have said, can only guess-
As you are about to incur more trouble and expence in this business,
than any one else I thought it well to put you in possession of this
new view of the subject, that you might reflect upon it and conclude
as you pleased— It would be well for you I think to hold some
talk with the McNeils, and get the benefit of their opinions, as they
are pretty well qualified to judge of Mexican affairs,—and by all
means see McKinney, whose judgment on the matters would be no
less important—
Besides you know he has taken upon himself a good deal of
troubles-—which he would of course think it well enough to save.
if there be no real necessity for it—
Whatever you may conclude on down there, I am certain will be
satisfactory up here, to Mr. Bell and others-
Do not think that I am getting reluctant or faint hearted about
the trip, for I assure you I am cheerfully disposed to make it if
necessary, and would be as ready to give it up, if those who are
more interested, in the financial matters that relate to it should
advise in that way—
Decide on the matter therefore, without the least regard to any
feeling of mine particularly for I assure you I am quite easy either
way—
I think I can answer for Mr. Young [and] Mr. Jack in the same
way—
P W Grayson
James F. Perry Peach Point