New Orleans, January 2, 1831

My dear Cousin,

I am far from having forgotten you or your visit to Greenfield, as you suggest in your letter to my brother John. Indeed, I often find myself employed in tracing the progress of the " puny boy," through the daring career of the enterprising man. Little did either of us, at that time, contemplate the condition in which the present anniversary finds us. I have been more frequently led to these reflections since I have been living comparatively near to you—since I have been left alone to mark out the future destiny of myself and my son. More particularly with regard to my son I have thought I would write to you and renew our acquaintance, in order to learn, what prospect Texas would offer to him, looking some distance a head: whether it would be an object for me to take any steps with such views—securing land—etc. He is a boy of twelve, has talents enough, but as yet I can not decide whether they will be marked by the love of literature of his Father's family, or the love of enterprise of mine. His education is before him, and occupies all my cares. I have thought too, if my brothers could make it their interest to remove to Texas, we could there together build up our fallen family in new hopes and happiness. I am sure my brother Henry's family might be happier there together than separated as now. I am happily and usefully situated where I am but I am alone, and think—I am sure—I should prefer a place of tolerable comfort, entirely my own,—a permanent home, to all this luxury, with dependence in the least possible sense. Do I deceive myself? I saw your letters to my brothers, and pamphlet while in New York. Are there persons among you who want education and accomplishments such as I could give if that would be necessary, after a year or so? Be so good as to write me on these points, and others concerning your self. Direct New Orleans, Care of Michael Fortier Esq.

I have taken this moment to write from the possibility that my brother Henry may be with you, and he will thereby hear from me, while a letter directed to him might benefit neither him nor yourself if he should not be there.

Is your Sister and her family with you.

Mary Holley

I lately heard from N York and New Haven all well. I am obliged to hurry to send my letter.

[Addressed:] To, Col: S F Austin St Filippe de Austin Texas Mexico