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The National Trouble.

The intelligence of the conflict between the government and the confederate forces at Charleston, and the success of the latter, has produced the most intense excitement here, and, the telegraph advises us, all over the country. Our dispatches say that the government is making extensive preparations for the enforcement of its authority, and the states are being called on for volunteers to sustain the government in its resistance to the rebellion.

Gov. Yates has returned to the city, and has issued his proclamation for a meeting of the legislature on the 23d instant, to devise ways and means to contribute, if necessary, Illinois' share in support of the government.

The telegraph advises us that congress is to be called to assemble on the 4th July. Why such delay? The states which have not elected members could be urged to elect at once, and the representatives of the loyal states assemble as soon as possible. With our present advices, the government effort on Sumter has been most puerile. It should have been succored and maintained, or the effort should not have been made. Happily, there has been no loss of life in the conflict, but it is humiliating that, endeavoring to assert its power, the government has met with signal defeat. Except to vindicate its power, the demonstration upon Sumter amounted to nothing. It is most disastrous that it should have failed. The prestige is against the Union cause, and encouraging to that of its enemies.

We are proud to record that Douglas and his counsels, now that blows have ensued, are with the government. Ever faithful, ever true, the champion of popular rights is for the cause of his country — of the constitution and law. Whatever may be our party leanings, our party principles, our likes or dislikes, when the contest opens between the country, between the Union, and its foes, and blows are struck, the patriot's duty is plain — take sides with the "stars and stripes."

As Illinoisans, let us rally to one standard. There is but one standard for good men and true. Let us be there. Through good and through evil report, let us be there — first, last and all the time!