THE AUSTIN PAPERS 705 doubt whether I answered all the inquiries contained in yours of 2nd November. . I am pleased with the idea of some publication that will make the world acquainted with Texas, ns Texas and its inhabitants de- serve. When I explored this conntry in 1821, it was a wild, howling, interminable solitude from Sabine to Bexar. The civilized popu- lation had not extended beyond the margins of the Sabine in that quarter; and was confined, on the west to the towns or villages of Bexar and La Bahia (the latter is now called Goliad) which were isolated military posts. I fonnd the .country so much more valuable than I expected that the idea of contributing to fill it with a civilized and industrious population filled my soul with enthusiasm. I can with truth, and with a clear conscience, say, that none of the sordid and selfish motives which influence the mass of adventure[r]s had any weight in determining me to attack this wilderness. I com- 'menced on the solid basis of sound and philanthropic intentions, and of undeviating integrity. I asked the favor of the new govern- ment of Mexico-that is, permission to settle this country, and be- come one of its citizens. What I asked was granted. I became a Mexican Citizen. From that moment, honor, the sanctity of nn oath, gi-atitude-all bound me to Mexico and her interests. Never Lave I for one moment, deviated from the line of duty which those obligations imposed on me. And, I attribute my success (for I may say with pride I have been successful) to this circumstance. Should this Government ever attempt to trample upon us, however, honor, duty, justice, the approbation of all good people of all good Nations, will point out the course for us to adopt. But, I have no fears- not the most distant of such an unhappy event. But few of my native countrymen understand me, my character, moti,es, or prin- ciples. •An earnest desire to benefit all; in short, more good will, and confidence in mankind than lwas] deserved, have often led me into mistakes verging on weakness, and exposed me to the impo- sitions of the cl'Ufty and designing. A thorough knowledge of the Mexican character, the policy of the Government and the feelings of the mass of the people towards foreigners convinced me at an early day that Texas must be settled silently, or not at all. Hence it is that I was progressing here for years, and rearing a flourishing settlement in this country, and it was unlmown even in parts of Louisiana, the adjoining State, that such a thing existed. The circumstances are now changed, and it is time to bring out my ward and introduce her to the world. The emigration of North Americans is now totally prohibited. I wish to start an emigration of English, Irish, Scotish, Germnn, Swiss, French, any civilized people; the three first are the best from the
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