day before had deepened the excitement, and now a more thorough
examination of the building was proposed, and also an examination of the
physicians' houses. Matters were beginning to wear a serious aspect, and
the Governor, Mayor, Chancellor, and some of the prominent citizens of the
town, came together to consult on a course of action. It was finally
resolved to resort in a body to the spot where the mob was assembled, and
make a personal appeal to it. They did so, and presented an imposing
appearance as they advanced up Broadway. Although representing the State
and city, they did not presume on their authority, but attempted
persuasion. Mounting the steps, they in turn addressed the throng, which
now kept momentarily increasing, and exhorted them as law-abiding citizens
to use no violence. Some made most pathetic appeals to their feelings,
their pride and self-respect; indeed, begged them, by every consideration
of home and justice, to desist, and retire peacefully to their homes. They
solemnly promised that a most thorough investigation should be made, and
they should have all the satisfaction the laws could afford. More they
ought not to ask. These appeals and promises produced a favorable effect
on many of the mob, and they left. But the greater part refused to be
pacified. Their blood was up, and they insisted on making the examination
themselves. They did not propose to commit any violence, but having begun
their investigations they were determined to go through with them.

The Mayor and the Governor seemed to have an unaccountable repugnance to
the use of force, and let the mob depart for Columbia College without any
resistance. The professors and students were amazed at this sudden
inundation of the crowd, who swarmed without opposition through every part
of the building. Finding nothing to confirm their suspicions, they left
without doing any material injury. Still unsatisfied, however, they
repaired to the houses of the neighboring physicians, and the leaders,
acting as a delegation of the crowd, went through them with the same