Should my fellow-citizens of like views manifest their preference for a different candidate on that basis, it is not my purpose to embarrass them.
H. WINTER DAVIS.
April 15, 1861.
But dark days were coming for Baltimore. A mob, systematically organized in complicity with the rebels at Richmond and Harper's Ferry, seized and kept in subjection an unsuspecting and unarmed population from the 19th to the 24th of April. For six days murder and treason held joint sway; and at the conclusion of their tragedy of horrid barbarities they gave the farce of holding an election for members of the house of delegates.
To show the spirit that moved Mr. Davis under this ordeal, I cite from his letter, written on the 28th, to Hon. William H. Seward, the following:
"I have been trying to collect the persons appointed scattered by the storm, and to compel them to take their offices or to decline.
"I have sought men of undoubted courage and capacity for the places vacated.
"We must show the secessionists that we are not frightened, but are resolved to maintain the government in the exercise of all its functions in Maryland.
"We have organized a guard, who will accompany the officers and hold the public buildings against all the secessionists in Maryland.
"A great reaction has set in. If we now act promptly the day is ours and the State is safe."