From the Adair County News, 6 March 1901:

A Strange Animal--Mr. W.B. Hurt's description of an animal he saw last week leads us to believe that it was a panther escaping from the great rush to the gold fields of Clinton County. Mr. Hurt had been sowing grass seed and had sat down to rest when he noticed the animal enter the field, coming in the direction of himself. It was shaped something like a dog, but heavier body with pert ears, long slim tail and of yellowish color. It came within a few yards of him and sat down. After a careful survey of its strange features, Mr. Hurt introduced himself and it left at a wonderful speed, and "Uncle Bassett," also left to partake of his home.

--Mike Watson