Blair I knew very well by sight.

I had heard him speak in the canvass of 1858, possibly several times, but I had never spoken to him.

As the troops marched out of the enclosure around the arsenal, Blair was on his horse outside forming them into line preparatory to their march.

I introduced myself to him and had a few moments' conversation and expressed my sympathy with his purpose.
This was my first personal acquaintance with the Honorable--afterwards Major-General F.P.Blair.

Camp Jackson surrendered without a fight and the garrison was marched down to the arsenal as prisoners of war.
Up to this time the enemies of the government in St.Louis had been bold and defiant, while Union men were quiet but determined.