Groces Retreat, Texas Augt 17. 1825.

My Dr Sister.

I have only time to drop you a line by a Gentleman going to the United States who promises to place this in the post Office— I returned from the interior last week where I have been the last two months on business— I had a severe attack of the fever while there but soon recovered— Some time has lapsed since we have received letters from you tho I expect there must be some in the Post Office at N— [Natchitoches.] I have not neglected writing My Emily every opportunity. This time last year I was enjoying the sweet society of my only and dear Sister and her lovely little family— When shall I experience that pleasure again? fond anticipation whispers in my ear that period is not far distant— May the wheels of time roll with redoubled force until that happy hour arrives------ your wild rattled brain brother spends more of his thoughts on his dear Emily than probably she is willing to admit— but I can safely assure her that herself and family ocupies more of my time than any thing in this world—

I am sorry to say there is considerable sickness in the Colony this season owing to the high freshe[t]s we have had the sickness has generally been light, no deaths of consequence—and feel confident from my observations so far—that it will not be very fatal—

Brother is well—and has written to you and Mr. P. about one Month since very lengthly— I am truly happy to hear my Dr Sister has an affectionate partner and hope the ballance of her life will not be checkered with so many vicissitudes as the last few years—

Give my respects to Brother James and also to Mr Saml Perry and Lady also to Mr. and Mrs. John P— tell Mrs. John P. that I have not been able to procure the Seeds I promised-— owing to my absence however next season I will attend to my promise

Kiss the children for me and Stephen— tell Joel and Austin to study hard- Jas E B Austin