Natchitoches April 13 1822

Dear Friend

I arrived here last evening all well have sent Richmond to Dr Sibleye the steam boat will be here tomorrow or next day I find from the Dr that the report I heard on the Colorado that Col Hawkins was in Kinselow vessel was unfounded the Dr was lately in New Orleans and informs me he has writen to you since his return—If I can dispose of my horses will return from here by water

I am requested to ask of you to enquire and ascertain whether any of the Mines of the Province can be worked and on what terms the gentleman informs me that he knows of one in the Indian nation the commanche is extreemly rich not heretofore known and if permission can be got to work that he will make it known provided we will make up a Company sufficient to carry it on and make him interested— from his representation and the manner he is spoken of by others it will be of importance and reliance can be placed in him— as I progress and here the continued complaint of an intire stagnation of business I feel more and more anxious for the termination of your journey and to get Information from you if the government is settled and is disposed to give you that incouragement we expect think I will return in the fall or if you can make any arrangements for mercantile business will immediately on receiving the information from you make the necessary arrangements to carry it into efect— in fact I must find some thing to do my present prospects are dull but according to the old addage it is never so dark as before day— My respects to Brown and to Dr Hewitson

Henry Elliott

P. S. on my return to this place I saw Mr Castleman as there appeared some uncertainty as to the result of your Journey he wished me not to sell the land till I heard from him or you on your return if incouragement is given to form the settlement he wishes it sold and appropriated as you directed

H E

[Addressed:] Mr Stephen F. Austin St Antonia Care of his Brother who may open it.