“After the court dismissed the case, Gen. Smith fearlessly stated that he believed that it was a plot on the part of those who were instrumental in getting up the previous trial, to thwart the ends of justice, and screen the prisoner from the condemnation he justly deserves. then stated by way of an apology, that at the time he issued the warrant, he did not know that the prisoner was under an arrest, or that there was any process out against him. We hope for the honor of such a man as , that his statement is true. , however, called upon one of his jurors, , to corroborate what he had said; but to our astonishment, he replied that when summoned him to appear and act as a juryman, that he was not informed what case he was to act upon, nor did he learn till he entered the office, where he acted according to the evidence given, but believed then as well as now, that it was a sham trial, and a mere mockery of justice. We state facts as they are, and let the public judge for themselves. [HC 6:284] The statement of the negro was that Messrs. Easton, Townsend, and Lawyer , were the persons engaged in this diabolical affair; Mr. Gibbs one of the witnesses against Townsend, believed the above persons were engaged in it; but as a negro knows nothing in this , and Mr Gibbs could not positively swear to it— of course we don’t know; but we have our opinion and so have the public; we don’t remember of ever having seen more indignation manifest than was manifested on this occasion, and the public mind is not satisfied at the turn affairs have taken. Lynch law will not do in , and those who engage in it must expect to be visited by the wrath of an indignant people; not according to the rules of Judge Lynch; but according to law and equity.”