Forcig,, Colonization of Texas, z820-z835
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homes in the province where they hoped to raise cotton, wheat, sugar cane and corn. He asserted that they were all former subjects of His Catholic ·Majesty, and had been obliged to remain in Louisiana to save their property. Many would have sold their possessions and moved, had it not been for the many impediments placed in their way by former Spanish commanders. The restoration of the Constitution of 1812 and the removal of restrictions against immigration had encouraged him to seek permission for himself and the others to establish a colony in Texas. To allay all fears, he assured the Governor that the settlers would bring letters testifying to their good character. He pointed out that almost all possessed property, that they were industrious, and that they would gladly take an oath to defend the Spanish Government against Indians or filibusters, foreign enemies .or domestic disturbers of the peace. 24 The Governor transmitted the petition with his endorsement to Arredondo, commandant of the Eastern Provinces in Monterrey, who referred the matter to the provincial deputation for advice. On January 17, 1821, Arredondo granted the required permission. 25 In approving the application, he stipulated that colonists must comply with "the most important condition, that of being Catholics or agreeing to become so, before they enter the Spanish territory." Deatli of Moses Austin. Moses Austin, convinced that his m1ss1on could not fail, left San Antonio shortly after he drew up his application. He was anxious to complete arrangements for the colony. By January 15, 1821, he was back at McGuffin's. After recording that the total cost of his trip for himself and his Negro boy had "been $25.78, he warned Bastrop of Kirkham's reprehensible conduct in buying stolen horses and mules from dishonest Spaniards in San Antonio. 2 • Confirmation of his grant reached him about the middle of May. By 24 Petition of Moses Austin, December 26, 1820. Copy in Baron de Dastrop's hand in Austin Pa'{!ers. The story of how Bastrop interceded with and was instrumental in changing the mind of Governor Martinez, who is said to have at first ordered Moses to leave, in all probability is that of Bastrop himself, who was not above self- praise. Stephen did not see his father after the departure from San Antonio and could not have learned the details from him. Stephen F. Austin, Translation of 1l16 Laws, Orders, and Conlracts on Colonizatiq,s (Columbia, 1837), 4-5. 25 Stephen F. Austin, o-;. cil., 28-29. Martinez' hearty endorsement was a powerful factor in gaining approval. Martinez to Commandant General, January 4, x82 x, Nacogdoches Archives, XIX, 255-256. 26£. C. Barker, Stephen F. Austin, 28.
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