Colombia Decr. 10th. 1836

Messrs John A Merle and Co. New Orleans—

Gentlemen

I inclose to you a letter to Messrs Parish Gasquet and Co. of your City, also an unsigned draft from Col Barnard E. Bee on said house for $1800) one thousand eight hundred dollars— This matter appears to be in rather an awkward situation owing to the want of the signature of Col Bee— This is explained in my letter to P. G. and Co.— Col Bee's instructions to them which he asured me should be given on his arrival will however be sufficient I presume and I hope there will be no delay in paying the money over to you— I am responsible for the statement I have made and for the money should Col Bee refuse to recognise the transaction, which I know he will not—

I have drawn on you for five hundred dollars favor of G. Borden to be paid out of said draft on P. G. and Co The balance say $1300) one thousand three hundred dollars you will please retain subject to my order

I shall probably commence improving a Cotton plantation next year and shall necessarily need the services of a Merchant in N. Orleans, and I wish to do all my business through your house. My brother in law James F. Perry will send on his crop to you shortly

S. F. Austin

P. S. What is the price of negros and the prospect of a rise or fall in