City of New York Octr 25. 1832

Mr Dear Sir

I arrived here from Matamoros on the 22 July last at the height of the prevailing epidemic; and found the City nearly abandoned and all business virtually suspended. And it is only within this month that the inhabitants have returned to their homes and things begin to assume their usual aspect. This information, which has doubtless been partially anticipated, will account for the apparent apathy in the land companies, for whose progress I had made arrangements. I am now here for the first time that an assemblage of the company could be had since the cholera, and in a few days they will have organised their plans of operation, and go to work to introduce settlers. It is more than probable I shall come on to Texas as early as practicable to fix resident agents on the respective grants, and get the colonization fairly under way. But whether I undertake this or not, it will not change my determination to visit your country this winter; and I hope to see you at St. Felipe in December at farthest.

I am fully persuaded the Galveston company will go on with spirit, and you may expect from them a full cooperation in all your views. Your movements in Texas I have learnt with no little interest, and see you have taken the first step for a change in your government,—declaring in favor of a seperate State. This doubtless can be readily effected so soon as quiet is restored to the Republic. The news here is that Bustamente has been completely routed by Montesuma, and is a fugitive. Padraza has returned, at the repeated solicitation of Santa Anna, and by his resuming the Presidency will end the contest and restore the constitution. We are on the eve of our Presidential election, and Jackson must be reelected by an overwhelming majority. The goubernatorial elections of Ohio, Keny and Pensa—have been Jackson—ohio by an immense majority—

I hope to see you when I visit your country, because I have much to say to you, and many important subjects to submit to your consideration deeply interesting to us both and to the country. Should you return to Leona Vicario before I arrive or be absent leave a letter saying what will be your movements.

I think it more than probable you have been induced to forego your inclination to retire from public life and will be found at the Legislature in January— much to my disappointment, it is said that Bravo has been chosen President—should our old friend Graves be with you assure him of my cordial remembrance, and accept for yourself my most friendly regards

John T. Mason

P. S. I sent your letter to Ed Hawes on my arrival: but have heard nothing from him, I have not been in Keny. I hope the Governor has appointed a commissioner for these grants: if not please have it done as early as practicable. My expectation was you would return to Saltillo and have this done when there—-

[Addressed:] Colonel Stephen F. Austin St. Felipe de Austin Texas