“You must be here by Monday night, 18th inst. It is of vital importance.
“R. M. Bouton.”
I then telegraphed back to Mr. B. begging him to explain the situation of my sister, when immediately I received the following:
“Rochester, November 17, 1850.
“This despatch has just been received from West Troy.
“Mrs. A. Leah Fish:
“Your sister is alive and well, but in great danger. Safe at present.
“R. M. Bouton.”
I started for Troy on the first train East the next morning. When I reached Schenectady I had to change cars for Troy.
I had just taken a seat, at about the middle of the car, when a rough-looking man sat down beside me, and commenced interrogating me as to where I was going, etc. I endeavored to be civil, but I suspected him of having something to do with the mob. After a while he left and held a long conversation with two men, near the front of the car, very like himself in appearance, and soon returned, taking his seat beside me again. I had moved to the other end of the seat, and maintained my position, thereby compelling him to press through in front of me with some difficulty. When again he attempted to speak to me I took up my satchel and left the seat entirely to himself. He again followed me, but this time I braced myself up and called the conductor (who had been watching his behavior all the way), and requested him to “compel this man to leave,” which he did immediately.