Sheriff Jones took with him these three men, who were parties in the murder of Dow, and arrested Branson, dragging him out of his bed at night.

He had also associated with himself eleven other men.

The news spread like wild-fire among the free State men.

This Jones was supposed to be capable of any atrocity, however horrible, and a company of sixteen men was gathered up for the rescue of Branson.

Of this company Sam Wood, of Lawrence, was the leader.