Austin Feb: 19, 1832

I was made happy to day by the receipt of yours of 5th and 6th Ultimo. I had before heard of the arrival of the Spica, and presumed you were well, but wished for the assurance from yourself before I leave. It was like a gleam of sunshine after days of clouds.

How cautious ought we to be, in all stations of life, but especially in places where our opinions and expressions are liable to be misunderstood or perverted for evil purposes, never to deviate, even in appearance from permanent rules of action. You know that my motto is fidelity to Mexico I never departed from it, and never intend to depart from it. The most unfortunate, and furious excitement, a part of which you saw at Brazoria, placed me in a peculiar situation. To control that excitement and keep it within bounds I had but one course left, which was to float along with it for the moment so as to temper it down after a few days of reflection had cooled the first effervescence. This matter has cost me more uneasiness than I expected. My own expressions drawn from me by the heat of others, and by the circumstances of the moment, have been caught at, and a much wider meaning given them than I intended; and this, too, by those who ought to be my friends. It is now over—I think—and all will go on quietly, harmoniously, and peaceably with the Government, a respectful memorial has been adopted by the Ayuntamiento praying for a repeal of the prohibition against North American emigrants, a modification of the tariff, removal of Fisher, etc.

Our last dates from Mexico are to the 10 Jany. the next mail no doubt will bring us something important relating to Gen, Santanas movements and plans. What is to be the fate of this Nation ? Constantly torn to pieces by internal discord and civil war—where will it end ? They have all my sympathy for success and happiness because they have tried to be free, and considering the state of civil and mental vassalage they have so long been in we must give them credit for many things they have done.

I expect I have tired you out with my long letters. Taciturn, as they say I am, you see I can be loquacious some times, and to some persons. It is long since I have been able to talk frankly as I wished. This is the last letter you will receive from me for the present. Now to business. In a few days, I shall be off, to return, a free man, about June, and commence my improvements. Nothing can be done to advantage until then. To employ workmen without personal inspection would be to waste money to no purpose. You can go on preparing for your removal according to your wishes Your league of land is not very far from where my brother in law is settling. It is on a navigable tide water Creek, called Dickinsons Creek, (Perry's is on Chocolate) on the South side, beautifully situated, has some timber and rich prairie, and is within a few hours sail of Galveston Harbor. Farewell, a long farewell

S F A.