Columbia Oct 6th 1835

Dear Sir

We heare nothing that we Can rely on relative to the Expedition against St Antonia and feel very anxious on that affair—it is rumored here that they have had an engagement at Gonzallas and that Cos is in St Antona with a large force all of which we know nothing as to the facts it is also rumered that they are perparing a decent on the mouth of this river by watter with a forse of 2000 men all of which is only rumer—should that be the Case is not the Co[a]st Country in a defenseless situation as it is left bearer of men than any other part of the Country and intirely destitute of armes—if you know any thing of the true state of things do let us know as spedly as possible should we have an attact by watter with our Slave popalation among us as it is would we not be much Exposed would it be prudent for any more men to leave the lower Country in the present state of things or not— do inform us of Everything you Can by Every opertunity we wish to do for the best in all cases and is only at a loss to know what is best do not omit any oportunity of righting and if any thing occurs send an Express let us know how many men is out and what is the proble amt of the Enemy—and all other things Connected with our intrust. Myself and famaly are some better in health than when you last heard from us—

J. H. Bell

[Addressed:] Col. Stephen F. Austin or P. W. Grayson St Filepe