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THE AUSTIN PAPERS
discretion of the commanding officer, who now is Colo. Arbuckle. He has instructions I believe to withdraw them if in his opinion the situation of things do not make it necessary for them longer to continue at that post, hut not otherwise. I think it more than probable that the existing Authorities of Mexico are endeavouring to get England to interfere in her behalf. Possibly· she may do so in consequence of the large sums of Money owing by Mexico to English subjects, but not to the extent of involving herself in a War with the U. Stales. This is another reason why it might be to the interest of Texas to set Santa Anna at liberty. Were he again at the head of the Mex- ican Government and the friend of Texas, he would ask no such in'terfer- ence, and there could then be no pretext for that Government to take any part in the matter. It strikes me if you Texans have any diplomatic tact, that by taking advantage of the present state of things in Mexico, you might avert, for many years at least to come, the calamities. of a war with that country, if not obtain its acknowledgement of your independence. I think both might be effected. I have got to the bottom of my paper and must conclude by subscribing Myself truly and sincerely,· WM. B LEWIS [No address.]
GEORGE C. CHILDRESS TO AUSTIN
[Louisville, October 28, 1836. See Calendar.]
SAM HOUSTON TO AUSTIN [Columbia, October 28, 1836. See Calendar.]
AUSTIN TO JOSEPH FICKLIN
Peach Point near Brazoria Oct. 30 th 1836
Jos. FICKLIN MY DEAR SIR
I have recd. several letters from you, and I fear you have accused me of neglect in not answering them sooner, As an apology I have to say that on my arrival at Velasco, (mouth of Brazos)·on 27 June I was called.up the country on important business, and was in motion the whole of July and August- The last of August I was taken sick, with fever, at the head quarters of the Army at Victoria on Guadalupe and with difficulty reached this place (the residence of my brother in law Mr James F. Perry) I have' had a severe attack, but am now convalescent, tho dispeptic to a great de- gree, and so debilitated that I am barely able to get about-
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