Columbia Oct 6th 1835
Dear Sir
We heare nothing that we Can rely on relative to the Expedition against
St Antonia and feel very anxious on that affair—it is rumored here that
they have had an engagement at Gonzallas and that Cos is in St Antona
with a large force all of which we know nothing as to the facts it is also
rumered that they are perparing a decent on the mouth of this river by
watter with a forse of 2000 men all of which is only rumer—should that
be the Case is not the Co[a]st Country in a defenseless situation as it is left
bearer of men than any other part of the Country and intirely destitute
of armes—if you know any thing of the true state of things do let us
know as spedly as possible should we have an attact by watter with our
Slave popalation among us as it is would we not be much Exposed would
it be prudent for any more men to leave the lower Country in the present
state of things or not— do inform us of Everything you Can by Every
opertunity we wish to do for the best in all cases and is only at a loss to
know what is best do not omit any oportunity of righting and if any thing
occurs send an Express let us know how many men is out and what is the
proble amt of the Enemy—and all other things Connected with our intrust.
Myself and famaly are some better in health than when you last heard
from us—
J. H. Bell
[Addressed:] Col. Stephen F. Austin or P. W. Grayson St Filepe