Louisville 5 Decr 1829

My Dear Sir

I have accompanied our friend Genl Fullerton this far and shall return probably this afternoon to Cincinnati— I have suggested to the General a speculation which I think promises great benefits and I have no doubt of its practicability— It is the procuring the exclusive right of navigating the Texas waters Say the Colorado the Brasos and the Trinity by Steam—The Genl and myself would be happy to unite with you in this [s]cheme if the monopoly could be obtained 20 or 25 years or even for 15 years it would be an immense affair Should the U. S get the territory— Should you think well of the proposition you are hereby authorized to sign my name to a petition to that effect— I beg you will think seriously of the matter—and if you do will summon up all your ingenuity in drafting a petition so as [not] to leave a single flaw for the jealousy of this government to pick at— It should [be] So drawn as to embrace not only the rivers but all passes and passages from one river to the other—the Netchez might also be included— I have only time to hint at this matter—Genl Fullerton will explain my views more fully to you— in haste

David G. Burnet [Rubric]

Col. S. F. Austin

San Felipe