It demonstrated very clearly that the Secessionists were determined to make their actions correspond to their words.
It was ascertained that, a few days before the publication of Price's proclamation, Governor Jackson was in consultation with an agent of the Rebel Government, who promised twenty-five thousand men, and arms and ammunition for fifty thousand more, if the State were fairly and unequivocally out of the Union.

He had also conferred with an agent from the Indian Nation, with a view to putting several thousand Indians into the field on the side of the Rebels.

General Lyon wanted an "overt act" on the part of the Rebels, before commencing actual hostilities.

Price's proclamation was the thing desired.
The troops in and around St.Louis were drilled as thoroughly as possible.

Every day added to their effectiveness.