Richardson's candidacy, long foreshadowed, was seen to require an opposing nominee of unusual popularity.

He was found in the person of Colonel William H.Bissell, late a Democratic representative in Congress, where he had denounced disunion in 1850, and opposed the Nebraska bill in 1854.

He had led a regiment to the Mexican war, and fought gallantly at the battle of Buena Vista.

His military laurels easily carried him into Congress; but the exposures of the Mexican campaign also burdened him with a disease which paralyzed his lower limbs, and compelled retirement from active politics after his second term.

He was now, however, recovering; and having already exhibited civic talents of a high order, the popular voice made light of his physical infirmity, and his friends declared their readiness to match the brains of Bissell against the legs of his opponents.
[Sidenote] January 23, 1850, Appendix, "Globe," 1849-50, p.