John T Mason to Stephen F Austin, 07-05-1836
Summary: Resenting report that he is author of Edward's History of Texas
New Orleans
Sir
I am informed by Branch T. Archer Esqr. that at Louisville, Ky, you
received a note from some responsible person that a book in relation to
Texas was about to be published in derogation of the character of its
inhabitants and that I was the author—I understood that the book alluded
to is the one now published under the authorship of a Mr Edward, the
contents of which I am ignorant, but am told it is a slander upon the people
of Texas— Your information derived as I presume from this note, has
been the means of connecting my name with this publication— I therefore
demand of you the author of this information—and if not given up, I shall
hold you responsible as the author of a Slander— An answer to this will
be received at Detroit before
John T. Mason [Rubric]
I presume the author of your note is a responsible person, or you would not have given currency to such an imputation—