Sept 24 1836 to Oct 24 1836 - PTR, Vol. 9

(4279] [LAWRENCE to CHRISTY]

New Orleans Oct 3, 1836

W. Christy Esq. Dear Sir,

Mr. James Taylor some time ago slated lo me that he was on board the packet when she was captured by the Invinsible last spring. When the vessel was carried into Galveston Bay his trunk was taken from him, when he informed Capt. Hurd that besides his clothing and other effects they contained money. The keys were then demanded from him and money to the amount of $496 being the paper of the Union Bank was taken from him by Mr. Potter the late secretary of the Navy - all his effects were taken at the same time - Taylor was put in irons and kept so for seven weeks and after a detention as a prisoner for the space of four months he was released and permitted to reh1rn to the United States but without obtaining restitution of his money and other property such as clothing, books, a pair of pistols and silver watch the whole amounting to eight hundred dollars. On Mr. Taylor's arrival here he states his case to me and I called on the Texas agent with him. Mr. Toby wrote to that Government on the subject but no reply has yet been received and now in behalf of the individual in question I take leave to solicit your good offices with the Texan authorities in order to obtain a speedy and full restitution of his property. I doubt not that your influence, if you shall think proper to exercise it, will prove effective and by undertaking the matter you will be but doing an act of kindness- Mr. Taylor is a good man has a wife and family dependent on his exertion for support and was going to Matagorda as a passenger on board the Packet with the view of bettering his fortunes. I have only to add my wishes for your speedy and safe return to your [illegible] after an agreeably and satisfactory journey and am very respectfully yours, P. K. Lawrence [Endorsed: J Columbia, Texas, 26th October 1836. This letter is refered to the President of Texas Mr. Lawrence in the U. States District Attorney of New Orleans & gentleman of high standing. Wm. Christy

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