The references claim, and they all come from the same source, --a book-- that Thompson's editorial was reprinted in the Richmond Papers. Not only can I find them there, I cannot find them in any paper of the period.

Apparently, William R. Postell, the said artist of the flag by Mr. Thompson, was a blockade runner, captured by the U.S.S. Octorara, at sea on March 16, 1863. Set to Key West for adjudication. Don't know when he had the time....hmmmm. Maybe while sitting in jail?