Rushville, Illinois March 14, 1832

Dr. Sir,

It is probable that the lapse of many years, and the necessary attention to business have effaced all recollection of even my name; I once had however the pleasure of an introduction to you which I have not forgotten, for public fame in your native Country has so constantly kept you before me associated with every act of kindness of encouragement and support to your former fellow citizens that you must needs be remembered— I have presumed to trespass upon your attention for the purpose of introducing to your acquaintance Mr Thomas Christian who will hand you this letter. He is a native of Virginia and has resided for some years in this State in the peaceful persuits of a Farmer—- I think I know him well and hazard nothing in saying that in steadiness of habits in integrity and honour he yields to no citizen of our Country. His circumstances are easy tho not affluent and he seeks in your Country under a climate more congenial an asylum from the cold of the North— Such a man I should regard as no doubt you do an acquisition to any Country; and any kindness or attention the generosity of your character may dispose you to show him or his family consisting of a wife and several small children I am sure will be most gratefully felt and acknowledged— If you can spare the time to write to one so almost a mere stranger it would afford me much pleasure— Every thing relative to your Country interests me much particularly its Government, soil, productions, Exports, imports, climate, seasons, water etc and a letter embracing these topics or some or any of them, or any other would gratify me much— Be pleased to pardon this intrusion and believe me to be

James Clark

[Addressed:] The Honbl S. Austin Texas