Robert Keykendall Captain of the Militia of the Colorado district being about to remove from Said district, therefore by these presents I do appoint James Ross Captain of the Militia of said District to act as such untill the final organization of the Battalion at which time a general election will be held for all the militia officers of the Colony, the Subordinate officers and privats of said Colorado district are therefore commanded to recognize and obey the said James Ross as their Captain under the pains and penalties prescribed by law.

Enclosed I send you the Copy of a commission appointing James Ross captain of the Colorado district, you will therefore deliver up the command of sd district to Said James Ross and also the public powder in your possession

Alexander Jackson will by public notice notify the Inhabitants of the above district to convene at his house on the 15 instant, for the election ordered in the above.

St. Felipe de Austin

Dcr 5 1823—3d and 2d

S. F. A.

L[ieutenant] C[olonel] M[ilitia]