All the meetings of the joint debate were attended by immense crowds
of people. They came in all sorts of vehicles, on horseback, and many
walked weary miles on foot to hear these two great leaders discuss the
issues of the campaign. There had never been political meetings held
under such unusual conditions as these, and there probably never will
be again. At every place the speakers were met by great crowds of their
friends and escorted to the platforms in the open air where the debates
were held. The processions that escorted the speakers were most unique.
They carried flags and banners and were preceded by bands of music. The
people discharged cannons when they had them, and, when they did not,
blacksmiths’ anvils were made to take their places.
Oftentimes a part of the escort would be mounted, and in most of the
processions were chariots containing young ladies representing the
different states of the Union designated by banners they carried.
Besides the bands, there was usually vocal music. Patriotic songs were
the order of the day, the “Star-Spangled Banner” and “Hail Columbia”
being great favorites.
So far as the crowds were concerned, these joint debates took on the
appearance of a circus day, and this comparison was strengthened by the
sale of lemonade, fruit, melons and confectionery on the outskirts of
the gatherings.
At Ottawa, after his speech, Mr. Lincoln was carried around on the
shoulders of his enthusiastic supporters, who did not put him down until
they reached the place where he was to spend the night.
In the joint debates, each of the candidates asked the other a series
of questions. Judge Douglas’ replies to Mr. Lincoln’s shrewd questions
helped Douglas to win the Senatorial election, but they lost him the
support of the South in the campaign for President two years thereafter.
Mr. Lincoln was told when he framed his questions that if Douglas
answered them in the way it was believed he would that the answers would
make him Senator.
“That may be,” said Mr. Lincoln, “but if he takes that shoot he never
can be President.”
The prophecy was correct. Mr. Douglas was elected Senator, but two years
later only carried one state--Missouri--for President.