Colombia, Texas, Novr. 7 1836

Dr Cousin,

Since my return from the U. S. I have been confined much of the time with sickness and am now barely able to get about, or attend to any business. I have however accepted and entered upon the office of Sec. of State. I am happy to inform you that everything is going on well. All the temporary excitements of the past have entirely subsided— Houston goes into office under favourable auspices and harmony and union is the order of the day.

Many persons in the U. S. have given much more weight to reports, rumors, and to the temporary and isolated excitements which have at times existed here, than they merit. Such things have their hour, or their day here, as they have in the U. S. but a little time and reflection sets all right again. There is as much union and harmony in all the departments of Govt, and between the civil and military, and amongst the mass of the people, as ever existed in any country situated as ours has been.

Henry reached home safe, his health is improved and he is in high spirits. All is going right, pay no attention to reports about Texas— Love to Henrietta.

S. F. Austin

[Endorsed:] 2 letters from Gen: Austin to me and J. Ficklin Esq. 1836.

[Addressed:] Mrs. Mary A. Holley Lexington Kentucky

To be Mailed in N. Orleans