[Indorsed by Austin: Ansd Feb 28.]

A. C. Taylor to Austin

Rushville, Schuyler Co Illinois

Feb. 19, 1831.

Dr. Sir

Without the honor of being known to you, I have flattered myself that the nature of the subject of this communication will be some excuse for the liberty I have taken in trespassing a few moments on your attention.

There are in this vicinity, a number of families who are desirous of removing to a southern climate; and on my suggesting to them that the country of the Texas afforded very considerable inducements, I have been requested to procure, if possible, further, and more recent information in regard to that country. I have therefore been induced to solicit this information, sir from you, not being acquainted with any person resident in that country.

We are apprised that it has heretofore been the practice to give to every actual settler a certain quantity of land—we would be glad to know whether this practice is still continued—in your own tract of country and if not, whether it is the case in other parts of the country, and if so what quantity of land is now given and what will be the expense of procuring the deed and the survey, and whether there are good and convenient tracts of country yet unappropriated. If land is not given at this time in any part of the province, on what terms can it be purchased ?—What is the face of the country—how watered, and how furnished with building materials? What are the advantages in a commercial point of view and what are the productions of the country? What are the religious priveleges—-are there many wealthy inhabitants—and is slavery now tolerated ?—All accounts that we have received concur in representing the country as healthy, still I should be glad to know what encouragement a physician would be likely to meet with.

I have acquainted myself pretty extensively with the culture and manufacture of the grape, and have had some practical experience in that business, I am therefore anxious to know whether the soil and climate of Texas is adapted to its successful cultivation, I should be glad also to be informed whether as yet the silk-worm has been introduced into the country.

Some with whom I have conversed on the subject of removing have expressed fears in regard to the indians—please to say something in dissipation of such fears, if they are groundless.

There are about a Dozen families here who will probably remove next fall if satisfied in regard to the state and coditions of the country, and many more will remove the following season if pleased with their accounts of the country.

Please to send us, if convenient, a copy of the constitution of your general government, and one for the province, if you have a separate constitution, as we do in the States; and also a copy of your code of laws, as those interested, are anxious to obtain all the information possible in regard to your civil institutions.

The above, together with any other information, whether written or printed you may please to send us? will be thankfully received as a very special favor by

A. C. Taylor [Rubric]

Col. —— Austin

P. S. I do not know the regulations of the Post office, but any expenses incurred in that line will be very cheerfully met by

A. C. T

[Addressed:] Col. Austin, of Austin Town St, Philip de Austin Texas