The Editor's Pistol: A Deadly Quarrel in Walla Walla

Surprise was expressed by those of our people acquainted with Hon. Chas. Besserer, editor of the Walla Walla Watchman, upon learning that he had shot and probably killed a man named Ed. Kleber, with whom he had a slight altercation, Monday evening. Mr. Besserer is known as a peaceable, law-abiding, inoffensive man, and would be the last person one would suspect of using a weapon. From the published particulars it seems that Kleber, who is a brewer, took offense at some item in the Watchman, and went so far as to threaten Besserer with injury. While under the influence of liquor Kleber called at Besserer's office and commenced abusing that gentleman. The excited man made demonstrations toward Mr. B., and grasped him by the lapel of the coat, when the editor drew a pistol and shot his assailant through the breast. At last accounts Kleber was still alive, but with little hopes of his recovery. Mr. Besserer was examined Tuesday, and acquitted, the judges deciding that the shooting was justifiable and in self-defense.