Discusses Political Affairs in Texas, the Convention of 1833, and the Advantages of Settling in Texas.
Nacogdoches
April 14th 1833
Andrew Smyth
Dear Father,
I recd from Mr. Gragg a letter dated 29th Dec in it he informed me that a letter written to Mr Galeagher to which I refered him had not been recd—inclosed I send you a copy, which I promised Mr Gragg in my answer to his of the 29th. Mr Gragg said to me that you had thoughts of visiting the country during the present summer—I desired him to say to you not think of crossing the Mississippi swamp between June & October—I repeat the advise—I have located & expect to settle on the Neaches in Zavalla's Colony—at no great distance from me some valuable selections might be made and if you should think (after seeing the country) that you could promote your interest & the interest of your family by removing to the [country] it I should be extremely happy if we could be near each other—But do not understand me as advising such a course—the situation of the country will not justify such council—It may be for your advantage an may not—I wish you to act entirely on yourown Judgment—The convention which commenced its session on the 1st April dissolved on the 13th they have drafted the form of Constitution which they are willing to addopt and have appointed three commissioners to cary it to Mexico to obtain if possible the approbation of the Supreme Government—The instrument is said to be well executed if it is addopted it will be a glorious epoch in the history of Texas—If not I will not attempt to draw aside the vail for I cannot foresee the consiquences—There is every thing to be hoped however from the prudent policy of Col Austin and of the Commissioners—There lately arrived in Matemoas 2000 troops destined for Texas—Another redgement lately passed through Monteray for the same—A Storm seems to be gathering what will be the result I cannot conjecture—A short time will bring things to a crisis—Give my respects to all inquiring Friends and accept for my Mother & yourself assurances of my affection & esteem.
Andrew Smyth
Geo. W. Smyth
P.S. As I have a little space left I will repeat what I have frequently said to you That there is no country in the word where a living can be procured more easily than in Texas. Cattle require no feeding at any Season Hogs require only to kept gentle and Horses require feeding only when in actual service—To counter balance this—the country is very thinly sitled—the education of children difficult & society badly organnised and the Political pot in continual ebulition.
G.W.Smyth
