New-Orleans July 18/1836
Genl. S. F. Austin Velasco
Dear Sir;
from the political news contained in the enclosed of same date and other
circumstances I do not verily believe that Texas will be again invaded.
Should future Legislation rob me of the lands I have acquired under the
laws existing at the date of my purchase, at the Sacrifice of my Cotton
factory mortgaged, and compromising my friends for their endorsements to a
heavy amount, I will be ruined like many others have been in this Wicked
world by Might not right.
In case this Should happen, can I count of You for eleven leagues in the
rolling country near to those I now own at fifty cents p. acre payable in
one and two Years from date of possession. I do not mean on the very
frontier Settlements but Some Where in the Vicinity of the Navto. or San
Felipe. If You answer me in the affirmative I wish to proceed immediately
with the following project, provided you can also immediately forward me
a passport or leave of absence for twelve instead of Six Months.
The information I have acquired from books and fully corroborated by
Several conversations with various persons I have given to a french friend
a gentleman perfectly conversant with the culture of the vines, and I wish
to accompany him to France to bring—out in march or april next 50 or 100
Laborers and make an experiment Which if successful will pave the way
for many future benefits for Texas and for those concerned.
I pray You answer me immediately and if favorable Send also the
passport. We wish to leave New-York on the first September next in order to
have time -to make a good Selection; which whilst my companion is doing I
will visit England and carry letters to the rich people there and, if You
wish, try to induce them to Send with me to Texas an agent authorised to
make a heavy loan which either to the Republic or State of Texas ought to
be of great advantage.
Please make time to answer this forthwith directed to Geo. L. Hammeken
New-York, and if my friend Guy will make a duplicate, Send it also to
Geo. L. Hammeken [Rubric]