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Natchez 1 Jan'y '53 Dr. Col. A happy new year to you. I have just received yours of the 30th Dec, but the one sent by the Norma was not put off. She stopped below, at the Ferry. Am pleased to hear of the purchase of the Beard, but would have been still better pleased if you had given the particulars I shall leave tomorrow for Jackson & will stop a day with you if I can, If not, write to me at Jackson. As to the woman, she must go in charge of some one, who will keep her as much out of the way as possible particularly when the boat stops at Natchez. If I do not see you soon I will write further, & may probably be able to meet you at Vicksbg about the 12th & go up to the place with you
I have no doubt it is a good purpose, & will promote our interest. I have to day formed a new partnership with Mr Davis, & will now probably have more leisure. My object is to quit entirely so soon as he feels able to take charge of all the business My "Forest Hill" place will go 25 to 30 bales (tied) over 300. Nothing new Yrs truly Saml S Boyd
Col. R. C. Ballard
Magnolia
S. Belle New Orleans 1st Janr '53
Col. R.C. Ballard Warrenton Miss
Dr Sir Yours of 24th ulto. is ot hand. We wrote to Mr. Morgan some time ago about the missing cotton. According to his recount, there are 4 bales short. Every shipment to us was delivered according to the bills of Ladg & of course we cannot claim from the boat. Vaughn, who shipped the cotton was here some weeks ago, but could give no correct account of it. He says however, he thinks your cotton was included in some other [Bks?]. We will write to Gilles & try if he can ferret it out. The S.B. Lilia, which brought the cotton is here but not the Capt or clerk who were on her at the time & we cannot get any information from those who now have her. In fact if Vaughn cannot arrange the matter we do not know who can. The matter ought to have been attended to long ago when it was fresh. As it is we fear it us a bad case - but will do all we can. Rutherford tells us he has written you about the negro & asked you to send her down. We have been looking out for that $50,000 draft but it has not yet appeared. We fear you did not trade with Col. Watworth. Cotton is active but very low - say 7 1/2 for good ordinary. If the Price of breadstuffs continues to advance in England we shall not expect any material improvement in cotton. We wish you a happy & Prosperous new year & remain Very truly Yr obt svts Nalle Cox & Co