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 Douglas brought forward proofs to show that Lincoln had supported that platform, and, said Douglas, "I will yet bring Mr. Lincoln to his milk on that point."

At this time matters changed considerably, and hundreds of those who had been applauding Lincoln all along, now turned and applauded Douglas.

At the conclusion of the discussion Douglas was surrounded by an immense crowd and escorted to the Geiger House, amid the loudest cheers.

Thus ended the first of the seven discussions to be held at various places in the State, in which both candidates are to take part; and if Douglas commences by triumphing in a Republican district, Lincoln may as well hang up his hat, take a back seat, and wait until 1860, as Douglas will then be President; and then Mr. Lincoln may make another effort for an election to the United States Senate, without having a Douglas to contend with. M.

[Chicago Press and Tribune, August 23, 1858] GREAT DEBATE BETWEEN LINCOLN AND DOUGLAS AT OTTAWA

Twelve Thousand Persons Present.—The Dred Scott Champion Pulverized.—Verbatim Report of Dougflas' Speech.—Lincoln's Reply and Douglas' Rejoinder

From sunrise till high noon on Saturday, Ottawa was deluged in dust. The first of the seven great debates which Douglas had consented to hold with Lincoln, had started LaSalle, Will, Kendall, Grundy, Kankakee, Cook and other surrounding counties, in unwonted commotion. Before breakfast Ottawa was beleaguered with a multiplying host from all points of the compass. At eight o'clock the streets and avenues resembled a vast smoke house. Teams, trains and processions poured in from every direction like an army with banners. National flags, mottoes and devices fluttered and stared from every street corner. Military companies and bands of music monopolized the thoroughfares around the Court House and the public square. Two brass twelve-pounders banged away in the center of the city and drowned the hubbub of the multitude with their own higher capacities for hubbub, Vanity Fair never boiled with madder enthusiasm.

At eleven o'clock two long processions were formed, one marching