Lynchs Ferry April 8th 1836

Dr Brother

We are this far on the run. Bad enough but could hot be helpd the hole country West of the Brazos has retreated East of the Brazos and hundreds I expect have gone East of the Sabine Genl. Houstons Army is at Groces said now to be over 2000 strong and encreasing daily, it is reported that there is from One to two Thousand Mexicans on the East side of the Colorada. all our men [on] out post have been taken, Travis and Fannin had between 5 and 600 Men every one of which have been kill'd or taken (except one) and shot after they had surrendered themselves as prisoners of war. all of which I have no doubt you will have an ofitial acct. a dark time for texas but I still have hopes, all our posts are now abandoned except Galveston: the govt is now fortefying that post and I hope we will be able to Keep it if not our situation will be very bad.

Emily and the children are down at Mr Scotts I have not got our waggon across the San Jacinto: but will as soon as the wind abates a little

I am anxious to send Emily and the children by sea to New Orleans there is several vessels at Galveston but they are so crowded; I think it will be best to take them on by land, one blessing we are all in tolarble health except Joel. Who has been quite unwell. He had to leave the Army in consequence of his health Austin is in the Army

I have not determined whether I will take our Negroes any further at present but will determine in a day or two. god Knows, when or where we will meet again, in hast adeu

James F. Perry [Rubric]