266 
KANSAS. 
went to Lawrence on the 23d, returning the next day with some 
articles to add to the comfort of the prisoners, such as bedding, 
luncheon, water-pails, wash-basins, soap, towels, etc. The few 
days they had been in Lecompton, notwithstanding their frequent 
request of the marshal, they had only a two-quart pail for water; 
and, in making their toilet, they had had to pour water into their 
hands, and use handkerchiefs for towels. Mrs. J. says, “You 
never saw a more pleased set of fellows than they were when they 
saw the pails, soap, and towels.” On the 26th the marshal 
proposed to Mrs. J. and Mrs. B. to board the prisoners, as the 
house they were in must be given up. They concluded to do it, 
thinking to make them more comfortable; and the next day, 
towards night, Mrs. J. returned from Lawrence with her span of 
white mules, 'which have been in her service ever since, going 
to Lawrence for provisions once or twice a week. She brought 
everything needed to commence housekeeping in a tent. The 
tent was already up ; the stove soon was set; and, by all lending 
a helping hand, the supper was soon prepared. To shade the 
table, poles were set, and quilts and blankets thrown over them. 
To sit down once more at a table, and eat of food cooked in a 
home-like way, brought a ray of sunshine to the prisoners’ hearts. 
The military officer in command was of strong southern pro¬ 
clivities, and, one would judge from his words and manner, of 
unpleasant nature. The prisoners were not allowed to see their 
friends. When Mrs. B. returned, after an absence of a few 
days, lie made loud complaints, saying “ he wished they would 
either stay out or stay in.” 
Mrs. J. suggested the marshal’s request, and that “ if they 
boarded them, they must have provisions.” 
He replied, in a surly, insulting way, “We can find some one 
to get provisions, and you can stay away altogether.” 
A lady from Lawrence carried up the mail. While she was 
allowed to see the prisoners only at a distance, the officer care¬ 
fully took from the papers the New York Tribune, allowing the 
rest to go in. Upon whose soul rests the sin of these indignities 
offered to peaceable, honorable men, and of the sufferings caused 
to innocent women ? 
