San. Felipe 16th 1835—
Col S F Austin
Dear Sir
For a long time there has been a great many things spoken of
Th[r]oughout our community about One John A Williams (Judge
Williams) as having taken a very active Part against the Acts of the Colonists
and advocating the measures persued by the Mexican Government, for a
long time I thought from report (for I dont know the man) his oposition
arose from misconceived Ideas But it has been Impressed upon the
Council and Particularly today that his conduct deserved the attention of that
Body and that he has arrayed himself with 58 followers already enrolled
against out military movements and with a View of offering facilities to the
Enemy with whoom he is in Regular Correspondence—having Prepared a
Boat for the accomodation etc. Now from these facts coming from so
respectable an authority the Council in secret session with Henry Smith Esqr
John D. Newell Wm- P Harris, Saml Whiting and Mr Menifee 01 have thought the circumstances would Justify an
Immediate arrest and the safe keeping of said Williams till he should be
tried and Disposed of by a proper tribunal. But considering the Delicate
situation of this Council being Representatives from a minority of the
municipalities only Have recommended that the commander in chief associated
with his staff and confidential officers Invite those members acquainted
with the circumstances and Ishue their request or Order to this Body for
their complyance.
I cannot see but such a proceeding is consistant in times like these when
we are surrounded by Warr and our Citizens are afraid to leave their
Homes lest their families be destroyed by the means and facilities afforded
by those within our own Bosom it is times of Warr and military rules
must Prevail in some Extent till otherwise Provided. If you advise
anything to be done in this matter it is necessary to be done with secrecy and
Dispatch—If you come to any conclusion of active measures in this matter
please dispatch it by Express and it is well to have the names associated
with you signed to the Order and for the Execution of the Order I
particularly recommend Majr Whiting.
R. R. Royall Presdt.
[Addressed:] Private Col. S. F. Austin Head Quarters Texas
Volunteers favr by Majr Whiting