Arkansas True Democrat
Little Rock
May 2, 1861
For the True Democrat.
Dardanelle, April 19, 1861.
Messrs. Johnson & Yerkes:
I am truly gratified to know, and from the signs of the times I can confidently say, Yell county, is now aroused to a sense of her duty, and will be all right upon the all important question of secession when she has a chance to cast her vote…
This morning we reared a pole, towering 110 feet, and from its lofty summit stretches out our southern flag, the star of Arkansas in the distance, like the swift comet, seeking to form one of those brilliant seven that are shedding light upon the independent pathway of our Confederacy. There were a great many people present from all parts of this (Pope and Perry,) the scene made an impression upon my mind never to be forgotten. As the flag was making its way swiftly aloft, ladies and gentlemen were thronging the side-walks, and amid the roar of the anvils1, (not cannon,) and the enthusiastic tune of Dixey, played by the band of the Showboat, Wave, Col. Lemoyne appeared upon the stand prepared for him, and in his usual manner, when appearing before an audience, seemed to take a survey of the entire crowd, and at the close of Dixey [sic], addressed the ladies, complimenting their sex for the interest they always take in all important matters, illustrated by the effect that music and woman had upon the soldier. He then turned to the men and addressed them as the descendants of the revolutionary patriots, supporters, protectors and guardians of women and children, pictured to them the present state o things, compared it to the revolutionary crisis. . . .