[Fayetteville, Ark.] The Arkansian, January 13, 1860
Clarkesville Arks. }
Dec. 21st, 1859. }
Messrs. Editors:–We are all on the qui vive for the good time coming, Christmas, the time when all is mirth and enjoyment, is nearly here and we young folks are anticipating a vast deal of fun. But while this is the case rumors of a far different character are float. It has been ascertained that the negroes of this and several adjoining counties intend to start for Kansas or leave as soon as the arms, which were promised them, should arrive from Cincinnati. Three white men of Dardanelle are implicated in the plot whose names have been divulged by the negroes at that place. We are wide awake and prepared for any emergency. Patrols are out every night in town and throughout the County.
The Harper’s Ferry affair and these rumors of an intended stampede of the negroes have prompted our citizens to get up and organize a Military company, of which O. Basham was elected Captain, E. T. Adams 1st., C. B. Gillespie, 2nd., and J. T. Stone 3rd Lieutenants.
In consequence of more exciting topics of conversation I hear very little about politics. . .
Truly yours,
Aristides.