Robert C. Bruffey to Stephen F. Austin, 12-12-1821


Summary: Austin's debts. Hard times.


Potosi [Missouri] Decb. 12th 1821.

Dear Sir I understand your Brother and Mr Powell are just on the start for Texas I should be glad to accompany them but cannot my Business is so much deranged.

The last court Nov. Term Guyard obtained a Judgment Against me on your acct the case of Collet in addition will Just about Consumate my ruin If you can afford the necessary Relief it would save an innocent Family from future indigence and sufferings The times are so difficult at present that unless you can pay the money I know of no way I can avoid destruction in a pecuniary point of view I some time since embarrased my self before I knew your Debt would arise against me which Renders it doubly difficult I would now go to see the Province you are in but cannot on account of my situation I visited Orleans last Summer for the Purpose of seeing you but failed you having left that place the day I left Herculaneum That Trip cost me three months Health and about $200 in Time and money if possible Send me the money and I shall be disposed to see your country and settle in it if, I am pleased the amt of Guyards Judgment is about $270 dollars and will be more before paid Collets will be $229 and the cost and interest in addition please write me on all subjects in which you think I am interested I Remain yours with esteme

Robert C. Bruffey [Rubric]

[Addressed:] Stephen F. Austin Esqr Province of Texas Colorado Politeness of Mr J B Austin