Eaton Tenn Jany 18th 1836

Wm. H. Wharton Esq

Dear Sir,

I have noticed in the newspapers your appointment as Commissioner from Texas to the U. States for the purpose of negociating loans and making other arrangements for the advancement of the Texan cause. I saw a gentleman, a few days since, who informed me that he came with you to New Orleans and that you would in a few days probably be in Nashville. I have therefore embraced the opportunity of addressing you a line for the purpose of making some enquiries and of making a conditional proposal for raising a corps for the service of Texas. A brother of mine is now an officer of some experience in the service of the U. States and if he could be assured of a proper reception in Texas would, I have no doubt, resign, raise a respectable corps and devote himself to the service of the rising state. He is well qualified as an engineer and tactician, having graduated among the distinguished at West Point Academy and having served five or six years in different corps; latterly in the Dragoons. His plan is to raise a regiment if possible of mounted riflemen and offer them to the service of Texas. The place of rendezvous proposed is Jackson in the Western District. He is at present at Fort Des Moines, but will be in Baltimore and Washington City early in March. Would such a corps be accepted? For what time must they be engaged? How long in your opinion will the war continue? Will Texas pay the expenses of the corps from the time they are embodied and will some advance be made for procuring the necessary equipments

I am informed that you will probably be at Washington City in March. If so, I and my brother will meet you there at that time and enter into some definite arrangements if the proposal is accepted. In the mean time you will oblige me with a speedy answer.— Some persons are of the opinion that the war will be speedily ended. I am not of that opinion but cannot now enter into my reasons for coming to a different conclusion; but will give them when I have a more convenient opportunity—With great respect

Wm. W. Lea.

I write in haste and you will excuse errors

[Addressed:] Wm H Wharton Esq Nashville Tennessee

[Postmark:] Eaton T Jany 19th Free Wm. W. Lea P. M.