Diary of Sara Tappan Doolittle Lawrence Robinson, September 30, 1855

-- A gentleman called, and inquired for doctor. On being told that he was absent, he inquired for me. After saying to me, "Doctor is not at home," to which I assent, he said, "We have some news." A long pause followed, in which a thousand fears and anxieties rushed upon me. At last, by dint of questions, the following was the substance of the "news" I was able to gather:

Two regiments of men are on their way to Lawrence -- one thousand men in each regiment. They have the gallows erected upon which to hang Gov. Reeder, and the rifle loaded with which to shoot Col. Lane.

I raise doubts as to the probability of such a thing; but he is sure, having been "specially informed by one acquainted with their movements, and who saw them as far on their way as the Shawnee meeting-house."

In compliance with his urgent request, I promise to tell doctor the moment he comes, that "he may go down and advise with him." The moment he is gone we have a hearty laugh, at the expense of the timid man, whose courage consists in brave-sounding words, and would willingly be at some personal risk to witness his fright at a visitation from the Missourians. Some people are so sure that large numbers of Missourians are getting ready to attack Lawrence on Tuesday, that messengers are sent out to count the wagons. They return saying all is quiet.