Fayette Mi July 8th 1836

Hon S F Austin

Dear Sir

I have just been advertised through the medium of the press, of the expected invasion of Texas by the Mexicans— I had hoped that the battle of San Jacinto was a decisive one, but circumstances seem to have directed it otherwise. The present appears to be an unfortunate moment for the Texians, the war with the Indians must necessarily divide their army and thereby render it difficult for them to meet the Mexicans in sufficient force upon the frontiers to resist successfully the impending invasion— Joined with the above, it unfortunately happens that the proceedings of D G Burnett and his Cabinet, has been throughout his whole administration so directly opposite to the necessities of his own Government and the expectations of the people here, that they have no confidence whatever in him, Notwithstanding these untoward circumstances of the Govt. I am daily doing all I can to promote her welfare, by inducing persons to emigrate and to volunteer in the service of Texas, and I hope my efforts tho' feeble are not without effect, there have many young men at my instigation left here for the Texian army and I hope I may be instrumental in sending many more I have had many and long conversations with Genl T. Hinds whose character you may possibly know from his activity in the Creek war and battle of New Orleans— he has told me repeatedly if he was solicited by the Texian Govt, or any of its respectable officers he would unhesitatingly lend his aid personally and take as many with him as he possibly could to share in your struggles for liberty. I seem to think it possible from his popularity for him to take 2 or 3 hundred or more. I mention this for your consideration not presuming to dictate nor even advise you, knowing your patriotism and interest for your country's welfare— Your election is now near at hand and I sincerely hope you will make a good selection for your President. Bring the people to see and feel the necessity of a radical change, if you elect another D G you are lost, I am daily ask'd what are the inducements to go to Texas? You have no govt: and should you succeed in repelling the Mexicans you will have a civil war of your own, more exterminating than that of your foreign enemy—such is the general opinion here and such their language— Yet I endeavour to hold forth fair prospects after the first of Sept. in the subsequent Govt. I should like to be with you but my circumstances will not permit, I was absent at the time I could have collected Moneys due me and during that absence drained my purse, tho' I shall be in Texas as soon as possible— I would mention also that a correspondence with Genl. Hamilton of Charleston S. C. might be profitable—he is deeply devoted to the Texian Cause and of great influence We have not yet reed, the long expected and much desired news of the recognition of Texas by the U. S. It must come in a few days if recognized this last session If you see Dr Archer and W H Wharton remember me to them tell them I am deeply devoted to the Texan Cause and can only regret that it is impossible for me to be with you to share in the struggles of my adopted country for her independence, while for the success of your arms the prosperity of your country, and the welfare of her Citizens and particularly yourself. You will please to accept the prayers and best wishes of your friend and servt

S B Dickinson

Should you have time to write and feel willing to drop me a few lines I should feel pleased to hear from you