Rensselaer Republican, Volume 21, Number 23, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 7 February 1889 — THREATENED ASSASSINATION. [ARTICLE]

THREATENED ASSASSINATION.

An Alleged A tempt 10 Harder the Hon. Frank W. Pop*. / 1 f Hon. Frank -W. Pope, who ' was the independent Republican candidate for Govemoi* of Flbrida, in 1884, has been threatened with assassination in Madison county, and the whole country thereabouts is in a state of great excitement. Mr. Pope makes his home in Jacksonville, but “reiugeed” in Madison duriDg the epidemic. He is disliked there on account ot his political affiliations, past and present. He has recentlv been employed by F. 8. Goodrich, the defeated Republican candidate for Congress in that district, to represent him in taking evidence throughout the district in support of his contest for the seat,. Early this week Capt. Ernst Wiltz, United States commissioner Went to Madison to hear the testimony, and Mr. Pope appeared before him. The news that Pope and Wiltz were engaged in this occupation spread around the county with amazing rapidity, aud such exaggerated reports were circulated by hot-headed individuals, that the feelings of the more reckless people were worked upon, and a deliberate attempt was made Friday night*) a saes nate Pope right in the city of Madison. The more conservative citizens were informed of the move, and rallied to Mr. Pope’s assistance. These latter were supported ov the sheriff, who had received orders from Governor Fleming, who had been notified, and ,chd promptly gave instructions td the author.ties to surround Mr. Pope with every possible security. The Governor Friday afternoon received information that lynching would be attempted last night. Sheriff Parramore immediately collected a posse and surrounded the house which Mr. Pope was occupying. This demoralized the would-be lynchers; who were surprised to see, that their murderous scheme had been foilcd. Mr. Pope remained in the house all night, but it is feared the hncheYs will take him off his guard, and a strict watch is being kept by the sheriff ami po-se.. Excitement runs high, and another attack is feared.