Fayette Mi July 8th 1836
Hon S F Austin
Dear Sir
I have just been advertised through the medium of the press, of the
expected invasion of Texas by the Mexicans— I had hoped that the battle of
San Jacinto was a decisive one, but circumstances seem to have directed it
otherwise. The present appears to be an unfortunate moment for the
Texians, the war with the Indians must necessarily divide their army and
thereby render it difficult for them to meet the Mexicans in sufficient force
upon the frontiers to resist successfully the impending invasion— Joined
with the above, it unfortunately happens that the proceedings of D G
Burnett and his Cabinet, has been throughout his whole administration so
directly opposite to the necessities of his own Government and the
expectations of the people here, that they have no confidence whatever in him,
Notwithstanding these untoward circumstances of the Govt. I am daily
doing all I can to promote her welfare, by inducing persons to emigrate
and to volunteer in the service of Texas, and I hope my efforts tho' feeble
are not without effect, there have many young men at my instigation left
here for the Texian army and I hope I may be instrumental in sending
many more I have had many and long conversations with Genl T. Hinds
whose character you may possibly know from his activity in the Creek war
and battle of New Orleans— he has told me repeatedly if he was solicited
by the Texian Govt, or any of its respectable officers he would
unhesitatingly lend his aid personally and take as many with him as he possibly
could to share in your struggles for liberty. I seem to think it possible
from his popularity for him to take 2 or 3 hundred or more. I mention
this for your consideration not presuming to dictate nor even advise you,
knowing your patriotism and interest for your country's welfare— Your
election is now near at hand and I sincerely hope you will make a good
selection for your President. Bring the people to see and feel the necessity
of a radical change, if you elect another D G you are lost, I am daily
ask'd what are the inducements to go to Texas? You have no govt: and
should you succeed in repelling the Mexicans you will have a civil war of
your own, more exterminating than that of your foreign enemy—such is
the general opinion here and such their language— Yet I endeavour to hold
forth fair prospects after the first of Sept. in the subsequent Govt. I
should like to be with you but my circumstances will not permit, I was
absent at the time I could have collected Moneys due me and during that
absence drained my purse, tho' I shall be in Texas as soon as possible—
I would mention also that a correspondence with Genl. Hamilton of
Charleston S. C. might be profitable—he is deeply devoted to the Texian
Cause and of great influence We have not yet reed, the long expected and
much desired news of the recognition of Texas by the U. S. It must come
in a few days if recognized this last session If you see Dr Archer and
W H Wharton remember me to them tell them I am deeply devoted to
the Texan Cause and can only regret that it is impossible for me to be
with you to share in the struggles of my adopted country for her
independence, while for the success of your arms the prosperity of your
country, and the welfare of her Citizens and particularly yourself. You will
please to accept the prayers and best wishes of your friend and servt
S B Dickinson
Should you have time to write and feel willing to drop me a few lines I
should feel pleased to hear from you