[From the Williams Papers. Rosenberg Library, Galveston, Texas.]

New Orleans Augt 22, 1835

H. Meigs Esqr

Dr. Sir.

This will be handed to you by my friend Mr. Samuel M. Williams. Mr. W. has been with me in Texas since 1823. he was the secretary who has done most of the business in my colonizing operations, and is well acquainted with my affairs, and with the situation of things in Texas, as he has recently left there— He goes to the north on business of his own, but at the same time will contribute anything in his power for the genl. good of that country, and will take charge of any communications you may wish to send to me

I solicit for him your friendly attention, and an introduction to your brother in law [John Forsyth]. Texas is improving very fast, and there is every prospect of a great emigration from the Western and Southern States this fall and winter— I hope my native state "Old Virginia" will also contribute some of her sons— The N. York land companies will of course not be idle so that I hope there will be a very great increase of population this fall and winter.

S. F. Austin [Rubric]

[Addressed:] Mr. H. Meigs introducing Mr. S. M. Williams— H- Meigs Esqr New York Mr S. M. Williams