St Antonio Sept 5th 1826

Austin Esqr

Sir Having some days since had a conversation with your Brother through the medium of a friend respecting the loss I sustained of a Cabalyard, consisting of 69 head of Mules 22 Horses and 13 work Oxen, taken off at night from my camp by the towagones [Tahuacanos] and wecos—He informed me that an Expedition was about being undertaken by the settlers of your Colony against those two Nations for depredations committed upon your settlement— and promised that he would write to you on the subject of my loss and assured me of your friendly disposition toward the recovery of my property, all which I doubt not he has mentioned to you, previous to his leaving here, probably by the last mail that left here

Under the solicitude I feel for the recovery of this property, and the Extra expense incurred added to the pecuniary embarrassment, and my attention being required to my property here, preventing personal steps towards regaining of my cavalyard, I am induced personally to address this Letter, and in aid with a friend, who has politely promised to forward the same further to solicit your good offices, in the event of an Expedition being fitted out as suggested by your Brother, towards the Expense of which I am willing most chearfully to contribute Five Hundred Dollars, provided by so doing my property could be placed in a situation so as to be obtained by my sending for it on being advised thereof, beside placing myself under obligations of gratitude and personal respect not to be forgotten, but holding myself always ready to reciprocate when opportunity presented, to yourself or friends.

Owing to my misfortune I have come to a determination to sell off 4 to 6 waggons, of which I also apprized your Brother, who at once discovered thire usefulness to some of the Largest Planters in your Neighbourhood—they are large and heavy, with broad wheels, well ironed and calculated either for Oxen or Mules, with complete sets of Harness—should any be wanted I would suggest the propriety of an early application, as I feel disposed to let them go reasonably, in order that my stay may not be protracted—Be pleased to favor me with your reply by return post and oblige,

Alex Curcier

The mark of my Mules and Horses is A. C. on the near side of the neck and shoulders—

The oxen have no mark particularly remembered

[Addressed:] S. F. Austin Esqr.