Lexington, Nov: 22. 1836.
Dear Sir,
R. A. Ferguson Esq, already in the employ of the government, and
favorably known to you, has been for some time in this place, and of course we
have [had] many conversations on the present crisis of Texan affairs. He
has used his time well and won over to our cause many influential
characters before luke warm or violently opposed. Among these are Robert
Wickliffe Esq. who would never listen to any one else, is now eloquent about
justice, liberal principles etc. Chilton Allen Esq, who wanted information
sent for Mr Fergusson—and having obtained it, became warmly
interested:— President Coit, Judges Hicky and Robertson and others are also
through his influence much interested for Texas. We have had a sort of
consultation the result of which is we think it necessary that a well
qualified agent duly authorized should be forthwith sent to Washington, to
resist, on whatever grounds, opposition to the vital question—recognition and
annexation; and we think Mr Fergusson the person best qualified for this
commission
These qualifications are a clear, strong intellect, prompt and powerful, in
speaking or writing, a profound knowledge of law and politics—the
present state of parties—with a thorough acquaintance with the leaders of the
dominant one—having been an Editor, corresponding secretary etc.—
possessing their confidence. He has written to Mr Van Buren and visits Col.
Johnson today, to secure their influence. He is devoted heart and soul to
Texas—sees what she needs and wants but authority and means to render
her further survice.
Should a commissioner be appointed—you for instance—as I hope—he
would gladly cooperate with you. Holding a ready pen, as well as fluent
tongue, he could reply to misrepresentations in papers of the day before
they had a chance to effect serious mischief.
I give you in these opinions, not only my own, but those of Mr Allen,
who is an influential member of Congress from Clark County and knows
well the value of such service. He urges strenuously the measure—as does
Mr Crittenden and others. Mr Allen does not stop here— He insists that
I also should be there: that my knowledge of the subject and my
acquaintance with the Northern delegation from whom alone there is
danger—would effect more than any thing else; and flattered me to that degree
that could I afford to appear there in the style my ambition would demand,
I should not fail to present myself at court with my two nieces as
credentials—a pretty, fair representation that could not fail to make an
impression on the hearts, if not on the heads, of bachelor diplomatics Seriously,
if you come on why can not we be your attaches? Emily is in New York
and could join us. I would sacrifice a league to accomplish so grand an
object. Nothing is wanting but cash.
I am the more interested in the success of Mr Fergusson because from
me came his first suggestion of joining the Texan ranks, and because he
does so much credit to the cause to which he has so warmly attached
himself.
We are all very well, and pray fervently for your prosperity and
happiness—in other words—for the entire success of Texas.
Mary Austin Holley
S: F: Austin Esq.