New Orleans, Jan 16. 1836
T. F. McKinny,
This will be delivered by my friend Dr Richardson a gentleman of
sterling worth and high standing as a physician. I refer you to the Dr. for
information about the public opinion in this country as to the affairs of
Texas. There is but one sentiment all over the U. S. which is in favor of
Texas and of an immediate declaration of independence We have
negotiated a loan on the terms of the enclosed contract
This was obtained on the belief that Texas would declare independence
in March—it could not have been had otherwise. The accounts from Vera
Cruz and Tampico are that the federal party have united with Santanna
against Texas— This of course leaves us but one remidy, which is an
immediate declaration of independence— I hope it will be unanimous—
I wish I was there to urge it. I would do so by every means in my power.
A number of vessels are fitting out in Vera Cruz and Tampico heavily
armed— Santanna was at Saltillo some time ago and is probably at Matamoros before this— A storm is brewing, but it will be harmless if the
people are united and come out at once for independence.
There is no news of Williams, God knows what has become of him—
My health is much improved. I wish it had been as good in Texas—it
might have been of service to the country if it had— There must be union
and harmony and we must all go together, unanimously, in favor of independence.
Send this to to Perry and Grayson— Love to the ladies.
Yours—S. F. A.
Jan. 17. I have just heard that there was a mob at San Felipe headed
by Mosely Baker— Such a rumor has injured us here— What has that
man to do with Texas, or what claims has he to confidence that he
should have influence to raise a mob. Shame to Texas that such things
should be— God poured upon Texas his most bitter wrath, when he
suffered the last Monclova Legislature (of most infamous memory) to meet
at all. Years will not relieve Texas from the evils produced by that
legislature—this mob I fear is a paragraph in the long chapter of evils which
the acts of that legislature has entailed on Texas.
[Addressed:] Mr. Thos. F. McKinny Quintana Mouth of Brazos Texas