Rev. A. Brandram
London, 30th January 1827
My Dear Sir,
In reply to your note (too long unanswered) in regard to my movements in Mexico, I observe: That, as it appears to me the best plan is, that I should reside for about three months in the City of Mexico to promote the circulation of the Scriptures there, and to make arrangements for carrying forward the Bible Cause throughout that country. After this residence, I would propose to visit all the populous parts of the Republic of Mexico. The places containing the greatest population I should like to visit first, for obvious reasons. Having visited the different large cities lying at no great distance from the City of Mexico, and on all sides of it, I should like to make a general tour over all that country. In the event of this, it is probable I would go to northwards first, and extend my journey as far as Santa Fe, which lies in latitude 36° N. and longitude 105 W. After returning from Santa Fe to Mexico I would go to the East, extending my journey not only to the limits of the Republic of Mexico, but also into that of Guatemala. In the city of Guatemala I should probably reside for two or three months, as it is the capital of the republic of the same name. After this residence, I should like to visit the populous parts of Guatemala lying to the east of the capital, going as far as the city of Cartago in the province of Costa Rica.
These are the ideas now in my mind regarding my movements in that quarter of the world, and they have thus been arranged in my mind for some time. To determine however to pursue these plans undeviatingly before reaching that country would be unwise, as various things may come to one's knowledge on the spot which might make another plan of operations necessary. Circumstances must direct if wisdom is our plan.
Two objects I would endeavour to keep in view in these journeyings. The first is the circulation of the Scriptures in the Spanish language as extensively as possible, & the second is the procuring translations of the Scriptures with the native languages spoken throughout the country. It is not supposed that these two objects can interfere with each other, but should there be an occasional contact the second will give place to the first.
The above hints may be turned in your mind in your arrangements.
Believe me,
My Dear Sir
Very Truly Yours,
James Thomson.