Their leader was Jack Armstrong, a great square-built fellow, strong as an ox, who was believed by his followers to be able to whip any man on the Sangamon river.

The issue was thus made between Lincoln and Armstrong as to which was the better man, and although Lincoln tried to avoid such contests, nothing but an actual trial of strength would satisfy their partisans.

They met and wrestled for some time without any decided advantage on either side.

Finally Armstrong resorted to some foul play, which roused Lincoln's indignation.

Putting forth his whole strength, he seized the great bully by the neck and holding him at arm's length shook him like a boy.