A. Bronson Alcott writes in his journal:
2 P.M. Meet at Town Hall. Our townspeople present mostly, and many from the adjoining towns. Simon Brown, Chairman. Readings by Thoreau, Emerson, Bowers, Keyes, and Alcott, and Sanborn’s dirge is sung by the company, standing. The bells are not rung. I think not more than one or two of Brown’s friends wished them to be. I did not. It was more fitting to signify our sorrow in the subdued tones, and silent, then by any clamor of steeples and the awakening of angry feelings. Any conflict is needless as unamiable between neighbors, churchmen, and statesmen. The services are affecting and impressive; distinguished by modesty, simplicity, and earnestness; worthy alike of the occasion and of the man.
(The Journals of Bronson Alcott, 323)
Thoreau speaks on “The Martyrdom of John Brown.”
