An immense gathering assembled under the call, severely rebuking the disloyal element, and with unbounded enthusiasm avowing a most faithful and persistent support of the war, and pledging, with prodigal liberality, means and personal encouragement, and adopting instant measures for the recruitment of the regiments of the State, and urging the immediate reinforcement of the armies of the Union." This prompt and decided action of the citizens had the desired effect, giving recruiting new life and energy, and served to end all demonstrations in the metropolis of the State opposing the raising of men for the armies in the field. The meeting referred to was held on the date stated, and although its intent was to affect the recruiting for regiments generally, yet much attention was given to the recruitment of the 24th Regiment, the raising of which had already been assigned to Henry A. Morrow, who had received the appointment of Lieutenant Colonel of the regiment.
This meeting was made up of the most respectable and influential citizens of both political parties, and the speeches were of a yery patriotic character, strongly condemning the dastardly action of a disloyal element which manifested itself at the former meeting called for the same purpose, and which was broken up by a mob, and its objects entirely frustrated. This so thoroughly aroused public indignation that the masses turned out in their strength with a determination that it should not be interfered with, even if forcible measures should have to be resorted to in enforcing order.