At 2 o’clock in the afternoon, Mr. Lincoln commenced speaking in the public square, where a platform had been erected for the occasion.2 The windows of the Court-House were crowded with ladies—and an immense multitude—nearly all of whom were voters, crowded around the stand. Mr. Lincoln’s address was an able and argumentative one. It was one that carried conviction with it. Addressed to the reason and calm judgment, it was unanswerable. The effect was evident from the earnest attention of the immense audience—and the hearty and enthusiastic cheering which it elicited. It is impossible for us to give its various points, but we may mention among them, the successful vindication of the wisdom and conservatism of the Republican platform—the complete demonstration that he gave of its consistency with the action and views of the fathers of the government—and with those of Henry Clay—and a scorching exposition of the inconsistencies—sophistries—and misrepresentations of the Douglas faction.3