New Orleans December 15th 1824

Deak Sir I have Ritten before I Left home and about Mr. William Smethers I have sent him a Knife to Cut his throat if he Denies me Sending him the horse and you will be so Good as to Get the horse and for setting my Improvement I will send out some Person or you must have it Rented out. for I am envolved so much that I Cannot Come But will try and send Out do write me every opportunity and Respects to Col Pettice and except for yourself

John Botts

I would send you some articles But Mr. Parker has more than he Can take himself but I send you a Cake of sope and a quire of Paper as I shall expect to here from you often yours With Respect

JB

[Addressed:] Col Stephen F Austin Brasses River Province of Texas

Politeness Mr Parker