From the Richmond Dispatch, 7/5/1861, p. 2, c. 6

Public Guard. - This well drilled corps made its customary annual appearance on our streets yesterday, by way of celebrating the 4th. They were under the command of Lieut. Edward S. Gay, and were much admired for their soldierly bearing, as well as for the regularity of their movement and neatness of uniform. - They went through the evolutions and fired twelve rounds on Capitol Square, eleven being in honor of the Confederate States, and one for the Legislature of Maryland. The guard was accompanied by its splendid brass band, whose performance of the Marseillaise on the public square enthused many French volunteers from other States. Col. Thomas, the gallant Marylander, was also present in his Zouave dress, an interested spectator. He attracted much respectful attention.

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