There were no outbreaks during the day, but it was evident the mob meant mischief after nightfall. It was surmised that the day had been employed in organizing and preparing for a night attack. Groups of men were observed in vacant lots, and other retired localities apparently engaged in deep and earnest conference. In halls, in various parts of the city, mysterious meetings were held, and no little apprehension was felt that the night would bring scenes of riot and bloodshed. But as the night advanced and no outbreak had taken place, the citizens began to congratulate themselves on their escape from the imminent danger which had impended. Up to ten o’clock nothing unusual had occurred. The streets were more crowded and the pedestrians who surged back and forth appeared more restless than in ordinary times, but that was all. At thirty-five minutes past ten o’clock, intelligence was rapidly diffused through the central portion of the city, that a mob, variously estimated at from ten to fifteen thousand men, had collected, and were moving on the streets converging on the Camden Station. Immediately the excitement became general. The force on duty at the Station was not sufficiently large to repel a mob of such overwhelming numbers. The report proved in the main correct. After eight o’clock, the guards on duty at the depot, became aware of a movement among the rioters. Crowds began to assemble on the streets leading toward the depot. Preparations were made to meet them. The picket lines were drawn in; the positions held by the soldiers were strengthened; orders were given to load with ball cartridges, and every possible precaution taken to prevent surprise by a sudden rush of the mob. The men stood to their arms in battle array.