Monterrey May 17, 1823

Sir,

The object of my mission to the capital of the nation being one of general interest to the Province of Texas, as connected with the augmentation of its population, and the advancement of its agriculture and commerce, I deem it my duty to report my arrival in this city to the Junta Gobernativa, and that business relative to the new settlement which I have commenced in that Province is satisfactorily arranged by the Supreme Government of Mexico.

I shall depart for Bexer a few days after the arrival of the Commandant Genl Dn Felipe de la Garza who is expected this evening. I am proud of the honor of being ranked as a citizen of the great Mexican Nation, a nation which has displayed traits of heroism and magnanimity in the late glorious revolution in the cause of true liberty which will excite the admiration of the world, and give Mexico a rank amongst nations which centuries of subjection to despotism could not have acquired.

As an inhabitant of Texas I cheerfully tender my services to the Government of that Province in any manner in which they can be useful, and declare my entire subjection to its commands.

Estevan F. Austin [Rubric]

To the Illustrious Junta Gobernativa of the Province of Texas.