94 
KANSAS. 
24 th. — Rode down to Fish’s, after tea with the doctor, who 
went upon business. There was quite a gathering there, and one 
of our western orators was making a speech. He said repeatedly, 
“ I have saw,” which is their frequent mode of expression. On 
our way back, we passed several parties camped by the way-side, 
sitting or lying in the light of the bright camp-fire, wdiile the sen¬ 
tinel leaned against a tree. We passed others, where they had no 
fires, but slept in and under the wagon, on the bare ground. The 
air of this country is so pure that persons do not take cold from 
lying on the ground. Doctor is tired with his various and constant 
cares, and sleeps sitting in the bottom of the carriage, while I 
drive on homewards. It was eleven o’clock, and the moon was 
shining brightly. 
80 th .— A gentleman called, and inquired for doctor. On be¬ 
ing told that he was absent, he inquired for me. After saying to 
me, “ Doctor is not at home,” to which I assent, he said, “ We 
have some news.” A long pause followed, in wdiich a thousand 
fears and anxieties rushed upon me. At last, by dint of ques¬ 
tions, the following was the substance of the “ news ” I was able 
to gather: 
Two regiments of men are on their way to Lawrence — one 
thousand men in each regiment. They have the gallows erected 
upon which to hang Gov. Reeder, and the rifle loaded with which 
to shoot Col. Lane. 
I raise doubts as to the probability of such a thing; but he is 
sure, having been “ specially informed by one acquainted with 
their movements, and who saw them as far on their way as the 
Shawnee meeting-house.” 
In compliance with his urgent request, 1 promise to tell doctor 
the moment he comes, that “ he may go down and advise with 
him.” The moment he is gone we have a hearty laugh, at the 
expense of the timid man, whose courage consists in brave-sounding 
words, and would willingly be at some personal risk to witness his 
fright at a visitation from the Missourians. Some people are so 
sure that large numbers of Missourians are getting ready to attack 
Lawrence on Tuesday, that messengers are sent out to count 
the wagons. They return saying all is quiet. 
