Chicago (IL) Press and Tribune, "The Galesburg Debate," October 5, 1858

The Galesburg Debate – A Word to the Committee of Arrangements.

The fifth public debate between Lincoln and Douglas comes off at Galesburg on Thursday next. We observe from our exchanges in that quarter that preparations are being made for an immense crowd. A special train will leave this city from the Central Depot on Thursday morning at six o’clock, reaching Galesburg at 1:25 P. M. Fare for the round trip, six dollars.

In this connection we desire to say a word to the Committee of Arrangements for the debate. At none of the previous discussions have there been any adequate accommodations for reporters. It is not a fact that two chairs and a washstand eighteen inches square are sufficient furniture for half a dozen men to work on, nor is it always convenient to make battle against a mob of excited politicians, when the fighting editor is at home. In behalf of ourselves and such other representatives of the press as may be present, may we request that arrangements be made for at least six reporters – that the chairs and tables be placed where they will not be jarred or overthrown by the people on the platform, and where there will be no room for persons to crowd between the reporters and the speakers – and that somebody with authority and physical strength enough to secure obedience, be appointed to keep loafers out of the reporting corner. These things are absolutely essential to the accuracy of the reports.