Columbia Oct 6th. 1835

Col Austin

Dr Sir

I staid last night at Mr Perrys and all were quite well except Eliza who has been quite sick but is now nearly recovered. Much excitement is now felt in this sction in consequence of a report that 2000 troops are to land in a few days at the mouth of the Brazos. The origin of this report was a letter written by Samuel Powell to his mother assuring her that it was an unquestionable fact and cautioning her to be prepared for the worst. There are many here still, who are willing to march to the assistance of their countryman at Gonzales, did they think it prudent for any more to leave. Is there not at any rate a strong probability that a descent may be made upon this coast should they know it to be unprotected? And would it not be prudent that a portion of our forces should stay to defend it in case of necessity? Would there not be great danger from the Negroes should a large Mexican force come so near? Your information on this subject is doubtless much better than ours and your opinion would be listened to with much confidence and satisfaction. The most vulnerable point should certainly be the best protected one—did we know where that is, I am confident we would hasten to it. Many false rumors are in circulation, it is important to know the truth as near as possible.

T J. Pilgrim

Stephen F Austin