The invitation was accepted.

As soon as the Colonel entered the door of the club, escorted by the committee, every man in the house immediately arose and all joined in giving three cheers and a hearty welcome to the gallant statesman and brave ex-Confederate soldier who had honored them with his distinguished presence on that occasion.

He delivered a splendid speech, in which he informed his hearers that he had decided to cast his lot with the Republican party.

It was the first public announcement of that fact that had been made.

Of course he was honored, idolized and lionized by the colored people wherever he was known.
After the Congressional elections of 1874 Colonel Lusk decided that he would return to the ranks of the Democracy.