The Clary Grove Boys were ready to pitch in on behalf of their champion; and as they were the greater part of the lookers-on, a general onslaught upon Lincoln seemed imminent.

Lincoln backed up against Offutt's store and calmly awaited the attack; but his coolness and courage made such an impression upon Armstrong that he stepped forward, grasped Lincoln's hand and shook it heartily, saying: 'Boys, Abe Lincoln is the best fellow that ever broke into this settlement.

He shall be one of us.' From that day forth Armstrong was Lincoln's friend and most willing servitor.

His hand, his table, his purse, his vote, and that of the Clary Grove Boys as well, belonged to Lincoln.

The latter's popularity among them was unbounded.