“ Very many were reluctant to believe the news, and in a state of feverish and eager desire clung to the hope that the telegram was some stock-jobbing trick or fraud for some sinister purpose; and in these times when so much is done for the sake of creating a sensation, or for some more unworthy end, it is no wonder that even the public should at length have been taught to be cautious, and be reluctant to swallow the highly-spiced dishes set before it. ”

“ The news put a stop to all business, and the day has passed away in mere talk and excitement.
BIRMINGHAM, WEDNESDAY EVENING The news of the assassination of the President of the United States has produced a profound sensation here, and as much of sympathy, consternation, and dismay as can be conceived in fact, as to all of these feelings, second only to one other calamity which might have afflicted this nation and the world. It was a little past 12 o'clock when the first telegram was received here announcing this sad occurrence. ”

“ The excitement caused by the intelligence was manifest in the public streets, and the event was the theme of conversation everywhere. The revival of the affair of the Road-hill murder, which in the earlier part of the day had created a profound sensation, sank into insignificance in comparison with the interest and astonishment excited by the news of the tragedy at Washington. ”