WEm wmm ^a^ ' " ' ; ? %A^ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. ^^-.fl.'|„^,M|^^ : II UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. « \mm^^ ^0^. ^^^:^.^f^m^^'''''-^ :»%*2'^55?5?!»?s?9*'^^ ^i''A'^a•,>fl*'^^'^^'^' IsiflaSA^^S; MJ^^^^S^^^^a^^S^m iA-^a'; r-^^'f ^A'^A/^^^,A/^^^'"'"^.-' ^^"'^"^-^^-.c;;^^-^^^^^'^^A ^oi. " 'j^nr>A_. '^^r^^?^^^^ unnf^^A*/ .^^A^,^^^^^ ^*^^^ y^^ty^r^ ^!^9^mM^ '^^^^^ '^^^AAa' 5^«iW«IS»?# ^%:.:v::-^-^^^.. AN AMERICAN PATRIOTIC DRAMA, IN FOUR ACTS: ENTITLED THE PATRIQTB OR Scenes and Incidents of the Revolution. ARRANGED -BY y' Herman Mayer, , FOR THE OF .A.mer*ican Indepencleince, A. D. 1876. With Cast of Characters, Stage Business, Cos- tumes, Relative Positions, &c., &c. MASSIl.LON, OHIO: S. & J. J. HOOVER, PRINTERS. U}?&^V GK TH^ ^ATmiOT^ DRAMATIS PERSONAE. General Washington. General Greene. Benjamin Franklin. Thomas .leJlerson. Samuel Adams. Richard Henry Lee. Stephen Hopkins. 1st Congressman. '2d ConOTessman. General Conway. Colonel Frazier, John Hancock. John Adams. Joseph Warren. Charles Carroll. Clerk of Congress. 3rd Congressman. ■4th Congressman. Bellman of State House, Philadelphia. Buell Pomeroy, a Patriotic American. Doctor Lincoln, a Phj^sician from Boston. Captain Preston, a British Otficer. Seth Peabody, a Live Yankee. Crist O'Reilly, a Patriotic Irishman. Jacob Krout, a Patriptic Dutchman. Sa;niiS(r.i Foster, a Patriotic Negro from Old Wirginny. Curry, > ^^^..^^ Otis, a Whig. Stuart, ^ ■ Soldier. Rose Creighton, Betrothed to Buell. Kate Creighton, Betrothed to Doctor Lincoln. Two Boys, Two Girls, Two Ladies' Maids, Ser- vant, Twelve Continental Soldiers, Orderly, Five Riders of the Santee, Ten British Soldiers^ Con- gressmen, Citizens and Goddess of Liberty. N. B. — Sixteen Males and Four Females will till speaking characters. THE PATRIOTS-COSTUMES. Washington; First Dress, General's uniform, Second, Stuart's Picture. Gen. Greene, Gen. Conway, Col. Frazier and Richard Henry Lee; Continental General's uni- Ibrm. Jeifersou, John Adams, Hancock, Franklin, War- ren, Clerk of Congress, Carroll; Citizen's Dress 1776, black. Hopkins; Quaker garb and hat, drab. Samuel Adams; A red suit cut of 1776. Congressmen; Continental suits cut of 1776. Bellman, An old man's suit. Buell; First Dress, Blue overshirt and belt, kneebreeches; Second, Riders of Santee Dress; Third, Major's uniform. Doctor Xincoln; First Dress,- Surgeon's uniform; Second, Citizen's suit, rich black. Preston; British uniform, scarlet trimmed with white facings. Seth; First Dress, Knee-breeches, old fashioned coat, red waist-coat, long Yankee hair; Second, Continental Captain's Uniform. Krout; Dutch suit; Second, Hunter's uniform. Crist; Irish Suit; Continental Soldiers uniform. Sampson; Negro Suit; Officer's old coat. Curry and Stuart; Cutaway coat & kneebreeches. Otis and Citizens; Same. Rose and Kate; First Dress, costumes of 1776; Second, Wedding Suits. Girls and Maids; costumes of 1776. Continental Soldiers; Blue coats with buff fac- ings, three corner hats,jwhite breeches, black belts. British Soldiers; Red coats and faced with blue, white breeches, high boots, white belts, high hats. THE PATRIOTS. ACT I. Scene i —Interior of House in Boston in 1775, 4 G. Window in Flat. L. H. jiracttcal. John Hancock. Samuel Adams, John Adams and Joseph Warren, seated at table in C. Han. Pursuant to instructions from tlie Boston Town- Meeting held yestei'day at Faneuil Hall, we have met and prepared this last appeal of our colony to his Majesty King George III for redress of all its grievances and its protest against the presence of the troops in our city, which is now ready for our signatures. If this petition is laid aside, unnoticed and treated with contempt, as all have been, then we must look for redress to the proposed Union of all the Colonies and declare our rights, and, de- claring them, inaintain them. (Signs ) S. Adams. We must have our rights, and now is the time to strike a home blow, or we ma}- as well sit down under the yoke of tyranny. There is no room for delay ! We want a Union of Colonies ! If the Colonies do not now unite, they may bid farewell to liberty, burn their charters, an'd make the best of thraldom. (Signs.) J. Adams. I fear all hopes for a reconciliation are in vain. While we have prayed for personal security and liberty, the right of property, the power of local legisla- tion, and waited for a gracious answer to our petitions from the King, we were invaded by an armed force, im- 2. THE PATRIOTS. piessiiiii and imprisoning the persons of fellow counti'y- inen, conliarv to an express act of Parliament To con- lend against our parent state is, in my idea, the most shocking and dreanful extremity ; but tamely to relin- quish the only security we and our posterity retain for enjoyment of our lives and properties without one strug- ijle, is so humiliating and base, that we cannot support the refii^ction. (Signs, and remains sitting during next speech.) (S Adams It is a direful extremity, yet it is lawful to resist the chief magistrate if the commonwealth can not otherwise be preserved. The time has come when we are called on to defend our liberties and privileges. I hope and believe we shall, oae and all, resist even unto blood, yet I pray God Almighty that this may never so happen. Warren. (Signs.) What wonder that we teel roused to stern and nervous resistance? Boston to-day looks like a town in a state of siege. The guns of the ships in our harbor are pointed on the town, troops are ashore with muskets charged, bayonets fixed, and a train of artillery marching through the streets of Boston ; Boston Com- mon, Faneuil Hall, all public places and buildings are filled wit!) soldiers; sentinels stationed in the streets, and peo- ple challenged as they pass to and from church. Are not our liberties gone when an army is billeted on us in time of peace ? Our fellow-countrymen dare not meet in pub- lic and deliberate on grievances, unless troops are at once dispatched to disperse the meeting. Han. The presence of the military in Boston is a per- petual source of irritation and excitement, and it is hardly possible but that a collision far more shocking than the Boston Massacre, or the Custom House Riot as some call it, must soon take place. The soldiers look on the people as turbulent, factious, and needing discipline : the people regard the soldiers as instruments of t3'ranny and outrage. Mutual insults and provocation will result. S. Adams The troops must be removed, and we are ap- pointed to wait upon the Governor and the Royal Com- mander to have them removed at once, or a fearful collis- ion will be certain to ensue. Warren. Yes, the colonists are making plans fur ef- THE PATRIOTS. 3. fectiiHl resistance, and are (jreparintt for any case of emer^ i;fiu\. Tlifv are coniinninu; to Sfciire arms ami inilitary stiiifs secretly, and are organizing to be ()repaiv(l to as- sert tlieir riylits when time and ciicumstances sliould give Id their ciaiin tlie surest prospect ol' success. ./, AiUniis Tlie NewKnulaiid Militia alone, wlien once under command i,)!' their old and experienced leaders, sucli as Pnliiam, Slarli and Ward, will lie a funnidnble host against the few reyiineiits ol British Rugul.irs that are in our mi request. Tl o Declaration the cominietee presented was taken up serin tini, and debated at length Among the many alteiaiiotix and erasures, the following was last ordered expunged : "He, the King, determined to keep open a market, where man should he bought and sold ; He has prohihited lii»! negative for suppressing every leglslaiive attempt to pro hibit or restrain this execrable commerce; and that tliis assembly of horror.^ might want no fact of distinguish d die, he is now exciting those very people to rise in arras amongst us, and to purchase that liberty of which fleh.i.s deprived them, by munlering the people upon whom he also obtruded them ; thus paying off forever, crimes com- mitted against the liberties of one people, with crimes H*. urges them to commit against the lives of another." At the conclusion of which, Button Guiaet,of Georgia, mov^•M| to go into executive session, for the final adoption of tne Declaration. The House at half past four ordered an ad- journment to July 4:11, then to meet in regular session. Han. (Standing up) Gentlemen — you have heard the minutes of yesterday's Journal ; any omissions or correc tions? [pause) If not, they will stand approved, as read. {Lets fall gavel) So ordered. [Sits down ) Charles Carroll Mr. President — I now call for the reading of that Declaration of Independence, as amended ; and sir, I would suggest as our worthy colleague, the Hon. Benjamin Franklin, of Pennsylvania, w:i^ on*' of the committee who drafted that instrument, he lie lequestod to read it. Han. Will the gentleman of Pennsylvania be pleasoa to comply with the request? Benjamin Franklin. [Steps to table betow the Presi- dent, takes up the document, and reads ^Ae Dkolakation OP Independence Size of document mustbe qm.U: large tvriiten across the whole sheet and length of the 'aper, with blank space below. During the readmit 'f the De- claration, the Bellman shows considerable anxiety. The THE PATRIOTS. 25. Bellman looks anxiously belotv and around, after Dec- laration is read.) Bellman. ( To bell — shakes his head) Old bell, it won't never tie, that reading on your rim ain't for us. "Pro- claim liberty thi'uughout all the land, unto the inhabitants thereof?" No, it won't never be. Jiichard Henry Lee. Mr. President. Han Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia. Lee. I now renew the motion made yesterday, on this floor, by the delegate from Georgia, that the Declaration just read be adopted. J. Adams. I second that motion. Han. {Stands up) It is moved by the delegate from Virginia, and seconded by the delegate from Massachu- setts, that the Declaration just read be adopted ; are you ready for the question ? {As VLovkyss speaks sits down ) Stephen Hopkins Mr. President. Han. Stephen Hopkins, of Rhode Island. Hop. {Spoken loith deliberation.) I trust our friends have well considered the importance of the step they are about to take ; verily, we are friendless, and have no allies abroad to aid our cause; we may sink beneath the waves on which we are about to embark. This act will call down on us the vengeance of England's King. Would it not be better to defer the Declaration to some future pe- riod, for ye well know, in the beginning we aimed not to secure our Independence. Are there not yet hopes that the noble Chatham and Camden have prevailed upon the Kmg and Parliament to extend us a more liberal policy ? Ye should all solemnly reflect on the serioas importance of this measure ; but friends, if yo\i do vote to adopt this Declaration of Independence, yea, verily, I will sink or swim with ye. My voice, my vote, is for this Declara- tion. J. Adams. Mr. President. Han. John Adams, of Massachusetts. J. Adams. Sink or swim, live or die, survive or perish, I give my hand and heart to this vote. It is true, indeed, that in the beginning, we aimed not at Independence ; but there is a divinity that shapes our ends. The injustice of England has driven us to arms ; and, blinded to her own 26. THE PATRIOTS. interest, for our good she has obstinately persisted, until independence is now within our grasp; wo have hut to reach forth to it and it is ours Why, then, should we defer the Declaration ? Is any man so weak as now to hope for a reconciliation with England, which shall leave either safety to his own life or his own honor? Are not you, sir, who sit in that chair, is not he, our venerable colleague near you,are you not both already the proscribed and predestined objects of punishment and of vengeance ? Cut off from all hope of Royal clemency, what are you? What can you be while the power of England remains, but outlaws? If we postpone Independence, do we mean to carry on, or to give up the war? I kviow we do not mean to submit. Do we mean to violate that most sol emn contract ever entered into by men, that plighting be- fore God, of our sacred honor to Washington, when put- ting him forth to incur the dangers of war, as well as the po- litical hazards of the times? We promised to adhere to him, in every extremity, with our fortunes and our lives. I know there is not a man here who would not rather see a general conflagration sweep over the land, or an earth- quake sink it, than one jot or tittle of that plighted faith fall to the ground. For myself, having twelve months ago, in this place, moved you that George Washington be appointed Commander of the forces raised, or to be raised for the defense of American liberty, "may my right hand forget its cunning," "and my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth," if I waver or hesitate in the support I giye •him. The war, then, must go on ; why put off longer the Declaration of Independence ? That measure will strength- en us; it will give us a character abroad, that cannot be ,ol)tained while we acknowledge ourselves subjects in arms against England's sovereign. Nay, I maintain that Par liament will sooner treat for peace witli us, on the footing of Independence, than consent, by repealing their acts, to acknowledge that their whole conduct toward us has been a course of injustice and oppression. The former, England would regard as the result of fortune ; the latter, she would regard as her own deep disgrace. Our cause will raise armies ! Our cause will create navies ! The people, if we are true to them, will carry us, and will carry THE PATRIOTS. 27. themselves gloriously through this struggle. Sir, the Declaration will inspire the people with increased cour- uge; instead of a long and bloody war, for restoration of privileges, for redress of grievances, for chartered immaa- ities, held under a British King, set before them the glor- iuus object of entire Independence, and it will breathe into them the breath of life. Bead this Declaration at the head of the army ; every sword will be drawn frona its scabliard, and solemn vows uttered to maintain it, or to perish on the bed of honor. Publish it from the pulpit; religion will approve, and the love of religious liberty will cling around it, resolved to stand or fall with it. Send it to the public halls ; proclaim it there ; let them hear it who first heard the roar of the enemy's cannon ; let them see it who saw their sons and their brothers /all on the field of Bunker Hill and in the streets of Lexington and Con- cord, and the very walls will cry out In its support. Sir, I know the uncertainty of human affairs, but I see clearly through this day's business. You and I, indeed, may not live to the time when this Declaration shall be made good ; ' we may die Colonists, die slaves, die, it may te, ignomin- iously, and on the scaffold. Be it so,' be it so ; if it be the will of heaven that my country shall require the poor of- fering of my life, the victim shall be ready at the appoint- ed hour of sacrifice, come when that hour may. But while 1 do live, let me have a country, or at least a hope of a country, and that a free country. But whatever is oui; fate, be assured this Declaration will stand; and it may cost blood but it will stand, and it will richly compensate for both. Through the thick gloom of the present, I see the brightness of the future, as the sun in heaven. We shall make this a glorious, an iumortal day ; when we are in our graves out children will celebrate it, with thanks- giving, with festivities, with bonfires and illuminationsi On its annual return they will shed tears, copious, gush- ing tears, not of agony and distress, but of exultation, of gratitude and joy. Sir, before God, I believe the hour has come; my judgment approves this measure, and my whole heart is in it. All that I have I am now ready here to stake upon it; and I leave off as I began, that live or die, survive or perish, I am for the Declaration. It is 28. THE PATRIOTS. my living sentiment, and by the blessing of God, it shall be my dying sentiment. Independence now, and Inde pendence forever. Lee Mr. President. Han. Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia. Lee The time lias certainly come, Mr. President, for the fated separation between the mother country and these Colonies. It is so decreed by the very nature of things. British injustice fills our hearts with indignation. Shall a foreign soil any longer regulate our domestic affairs? Experience is the source of sage counsels, and Liberty is the mother of great men. Have j'ou not seen the enemy driven from Lexington by a few armed men, and their experienced Generals defeated by a determined liberty- breathing patriots ? The very elements are in our fa- vor. Then why do we longer delay — why still deliber- ate ? Let this most happj' day give birth to the Amer- ican Republic. Let her arise, not to devastate and con- quer, but to re-establish the reign of peace and of the laws. The eyes of Europe are fixed upon us. She de- mands of us a living example of freedom, that may con ' trast, by the felicity of the citizens, with the ever increas- ing tyranny which desolates her polluted shores. She in- vites us to prepare ae asylum where the unhappy may find solace and the persecuted repose. She entreats us to cul- tivate a propitious soil, where that generous plant which first sprang up and grew in England, but is now withered by the poisonous blasts of tyranny, may revive and flour- ish, sheltering, under its salubrious and interminable shade, all the unfortunate of the human race. This is the end presaged by so many omens — bj' our first victories, by the present ard' r and union, by the flight of Howe and the pestilence which broke out among Dunmore's people, by the very winds which baffled theeremy's fleets and transport^, and that terrible tempest which engulfed ^even hundred vessels on the coasts of Newfoundland. If we are not this day wanting in our duty to our country, the names of the American Legislators will be placed, by posterity, at the side of those of Theseus, of Lycurgus, of Romulus, of Nurna,, of the three Williams, of Nassau, and of all those whose memory has been and will be for- THE PATRIOTS. 29. ever dear to virtuous men and good citizens. Sirs, my lieart is set on the announcement of that Declaration to- day. The heart of every southern man true to the Colon- ies, and the whole interest of America, demands that, as a unit we live, els a unit we die? Dissolution from Eng- land now/ A nation — one nation forever after'. S. Adams. Mr President. Han. Samuel Adams, of Massachusetts, sir-named the Firebrand of the American Revolution. S. Adams Mr. President, such is the addenda, by the people, to the gift of my father, and such, I hope, it will descend to my children's children — "Samuel Adams, the Firebrand of the American Revolution" — a title of nobility I hope, that will be made patent by the announcement to- day, that the Declaration of Independence has been unan imously adopted. My escutcheon shall grow the brighter beneath the refulgent glow of a free people's happiness. Our wrongs, my colleagues, you have heard. How they were thrust upon us we well know, A partial account of them is embraced in that Declaration. How are they en- dured ? Groans and cries of misery come up in answer. Now what sounds alarm your ears, and make your hearts beat in hasty throbbings ? The peal of musketry, the boom of cannon, and the tramp of a foreign foe. Above all rise the cries of a people that will be free. Liberty or Death — Death or Liberty! Liberty from what ? A ty- ranny of oppression the equal of which has not been since Cfesar trod under foot our counterpart and prototypes, the struggling Romans. They had Rome and its forum — we have the modern city of Philadelphia and the State House of Pennsylvania. The people whom wa represent ■ are our spectators, and their plaudits will ring 'mid the struggles of the baltle-lield. The wreaths and bays will come when peace and liberty sit at our people's firesides. Sir, in this strugyle I w»uld turn incendiary. Were there a pyramid of thrones to confront me, and were the gran- deur of their royalty and the powers of their scepters ot- tered me, I would apply the sword of liberty as a torch for their destruction, and watch to see the form of Amer- ica arise frrom their ashes, around her the powerful trin- ity of Liberty, Justice and Unity. Clause after clause 6f 30. THE PATRIOTS. the original draft of tliat Declaration has been erased or expunged, until the most simple statements of our wrDngs remain. The growing evil ot the black man's slavery (for all mankind loves freedom) we have consented " omit, for the sake of unity, allowing the course of coming event to work out the evil from among our children. Now that the Declaration sets forth our simple wish of liberty trom a foreign thraldom, I feell that you will not fail to strike, for the times demand it. Strike, for the people expect it! Strike for &od and Liberty. Thomas Jefferson Mr, President. Han. Thomas Jefferson, of Virginia Jefferson. Mr President: Virginia urges on this Dhc laralion, her vote is for its adoption. Shall I repeat the glaring injuries set forth in that Declaration, to induce my brother colleagues to vote for its adoption ? Do not all the inhabitants, from the snow-clad hills of New York to the burning plains of Georgia, cry out in agony for re- lease from England's thraldom. Shall I recount the In- dian astrocities inflicted upon our people? Those fiends by whom the burning fa-jgot was applied to pioneer's homes while life yet lingered in their lacerated forms, were led by British soldiery. Shall I turn to the meund of Bunker Hill and firing the bii-oding form of Warren, ■with the long train of boys with the down of childhood on their cheeks, and a mother's warm kiss on their fore- deads; the sturdy form in the early glow of manhood, who, but a few months since, sat at the home's fireside, with children at his knee, to love and protect; the white- haired ahd tottering form of eighty years, the father of this line — shall I bring these forms, cold in death, from the carnage of Bunker Hill, and pile them herein ghastly- cords, and have them ask you to vote for this Declara- tipnb No! I feel I need not I see the cheeks of North- ern men grow white, snd their hands clench with iron energy. I see the warm blood flush on the glowing brow and the fiery power ot a slumbering volcano light up the dark eye of Southern men, as if eager to start the labor- ious woik of building up this Temple of Liberty. It may cost the blood that flows in our veins to cementthe joints of its workmanship. Let it cost. The Temple is worth THE PATRIOTS. 31; the sacrifice. A noble advocate for our cause has truly said : "Three millions of people armed in the holy cause ol' Liberty, in such a country as we possess, are invinci- ble." Pass this Declaiation, that the people may know for what they shed iheir blood, and they will draw a giant's power from the very soil on which they tread Is there a lieritage so great on earth as liberty ¥ Is there any blessing so great as this, to bequeathe to our children ? No ! Sirs, there can be none. For ages to come, our de- scendants will teach it to theirs, and the foundation stone of this temple we lay to-day will grow to a massive pile, and every crown that has tyranny for its scepter will grow pale when the sun shines from the West, and casts its shadow at thiir. feet; it will face the East and West, the North and South ; the verges of the Continent will alone be its boundaiies; at its portals, standing guard, will be our sons ; and their watchword will fill the heavens — eter- nal vigilance is the price of liberty. Franklin. I call for the question ! Other Members. Question ! Question ! Hart. The question is, upon the final adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Mr. Clerk will call the jeas and nays by States. Clerk. New Hampshire. Answers. Yea. Clerk. Massachusetts. Hancock Yea Clerk. Rhode Island. Hopkins. Yea, verily. Clerk Connecticut. Ans Yea. Clerk. New York. Ans Yea Clerk. New Jersey. - Ans. Yea. Clerk Pennsylvania. Franklin. Yea. Clerk Delaware. Ans. Yea. ■ Clerk. Maryland. ■ Ans. Yea. 32. THE PATRIOTS, Clerk. Virginia. Ans. Yea. Clerk North Carolina. Alls. 1 ea. Clerk. South Carolina, Ans Yea. Clerk Georgia. Ans. Yea. Clerk. Mr. President, the vote is unanioious. Saw'? Adamo {To Boy at window ) It has passed. Han I declare the vote UQanimous, for the adoption of the Declaration of Independence Clerk, hand me tiie document. (Signs it in a bold hand) There! His Majesty. King George the Third, can reaU thai without spectacles. Let him double his reward of a thousand pounds for ray apprehension. I defy him !. Voice. (Outside.) It has passed! Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead ! — Run hence, proclaim, cry it about the streets ! Boy. (Outside — 6/towfe «o Bellman) Ring! ring! ring! Bellman strikes bell six times as on shipboard: Bang.' Bang! — Bang! Bang! Mepeat People outside cheer. As the belt strikes, several Delegates come forward and sign. Stephen Hopkins comes forward and signs John Adams Stephen Hopkins, you write with a trembling hand. Hop. Ah ! but John Bull will find I haven't got a trembling heart (Adams signs. Jefferson signs. Car- roll signs ) Franklin Cha'les Carroll, you will escape, seeing there are so many of your name. Carroll (Adds, "Of CarrolUon.''') Charles Carroll, of Carrollton If his majesty has any desire to find me, he can do so Franklin. (Signs.) Now that we have signed this Dec- laration, we must all hang together, or — we will all hang separate. (Bellman strikes the bell two strokes three times. Con- gress sits in Tableau, as in the picture of signing the Declaration of Independence. The opening scene forms the same picture, only broken by the speakers. In Tab THE PATRIOTS. 33. leau. Bellman stands with hammer raised. People gath- er at each street with hats raised.) Buell. {Down on L.) How many ages hence, shall this lofty scene be recounted over, in States unborn and ac- cents yet unknown ? Otis (jB.) So long as sun will shine, so long shall this knot [Pointing to Signers) be called "The men that gave their country liberty." [The two English flags at end of hall part, showing Goddess of Liberty. Bed or blue fire. Music, •'■Hcil Columbia.''' Slow curtaia. ACT III. SCENE 1. — Winter quarters at Valliy Forge. 5 Q. Log Hut, R. between 4 am*/ 5. Door on side. Stack of Arms in front, and L. of door. Camp Fire in front of Stack Sentinel pacing beat across stage. Drummer in front of hut beai.ivi "Sick Call." Ckist comes ouc of hJtt wrapped in old blanket. Stage dark. Crist. Turn out ! Turn out ! and pay your morning visit to the doctor. This is a devil of a cold morning to be turning the poor, starved creatures out. They have narry a whole shoe, nor hat, nor coat, nor shirt in the whole corapany. Some of the poor creatures will have to lay in their straw until their hunkeys return from the hospital, so they can get the lind of a pair of pants. Turn out, and get your quinine! — if the Doctor has any. (.Bw^fi/- DocTou Lincoln, L., with medicine chest and camp stool, takes a seat near fire. Sentinel salutes.) Doc. Guod morning, Sergeant. Crist. (Aside) The new Doctor, knows my name. Doc I will spare your poor men the trouble to go to the hospital this cold morning, half clad as they are. Crist. Indeed, Doctor, you are doing the sinsible thing. The poor creatures would be all morning getting the loan of clothes from one another to visit ye. 34. THE PATRIOTS. Doc Are they as destitute of clothing as all that. Sar- geant ? Crist. Faith, they are; wait till you see- them. Corae, turn out, boys! the Doctor brought the hospital right forninst your doors. Answer to your names, and come out as I call them off the sick list. {Caih from hook) "Patrick Kolly.'" ( Vo^'ce within) "Here." Crist. That poor creature hasn't been able to do duty for a month for want of shoes. [Enter soldier, poorly clad and barefooted, goes to Doctor who prescribe".) Crist. (Calls) "Jacob Krout " [Voice Within.) Say, Sargeant. I don't got some pants o come by the Doctor, yoost now. Crist. Well, why the divil don't ye borrow a pair from '*ie other Dutchman, as usual ? Doc. (To soldier.) I'll excuse you from duty until you get some shoes. (Exit soldier ) Enter Krout. Well, my man, what's the matter with you ? XroMi. What's ter matter mit me? Dat's told putty quick; I feel me so hungry dat I go kap put putty soon — odder I freeze me to dead. It makes me nodings out ob one or the onder one come furst, odder both come furst, I don't care putty much. I can stand one yoost so gute as the ander one, and a tam site better too, dats wats ter matter mit me. I feel me mad mit der Congress. Doc. If that is all, my dear fellow, I'll excuse you from duty until you get food and clothes, which are expected daily. Krout. I don't got some duty to do — I was a Lieuten- ant. (Re enters hut.) Crist. (CMs.) "Jeffrey Sparks," Voice within. Sergeant, he's too weak to leave his bunk. Crist. (Calls) "Thomas He.iderson." Voice within Sargeant, he's stiff and cold these two hours. Crist. Doctor, your prescription will do him no good. I feared all along he wouldn't see the outside of Valley Forge again. Peace be to his soul! (Calls.) "Patrick THE PATRIOTS. 35. Deviiie, Hans Sneider, Julius Ciesar Smith, Billy Palter- soo, Alexander Hannib.'l" — Duclor, Ihey are all book il lor tlie other hospital ; they'll follow in the wake of poor Thomas Henderson. Doctor, we have a patient that you must see, whether or no. He's cooking for the boys, when he can get anything to cook, aud, of course, as soon as we draw rations the cook must be in good trim for business. Boys, a couple of yees lead out our colored friend, Sampson Foster, till the Doctor makes a post mor- tem examinaiion of his black caiuass. (Krout aad a sol- dier lead out Sampson, who looks vary weak. Doctor (jives him stool.) Doc. Sampson, {feeling of pulse,) yow are too poorly to remain in your quarters ; you must be removed to the hospital. Krout. Yaw, dat is what I tole him. Samp. I isn't gwine to the hospital, dat's sure death. If I must die, let me lay down here, mid my feet to the fire, and I is satisfied. Crist. We'll not allow you to do that again, Sampson. The last time you laid wid your feet ferninst the fire you burnt the soles off of the only decint pair of shoes in Val- ley Forge, that you had the lind of. Would you now burn the soles of your big fate, too ? Samp. I declare to goodness, Massa Crist, I can't stand it much longer. I believe I is gwine to meet the good Lord pretty soon, fire or no fiie at my feet. Krout. (Holding Samp, up.) Was ish dat? You was to go by the Lord, and mit your feets down by the fire? (Meditating) Oh, now I see what you mean. When you was going down, (Pointing down,) and your feet come by das fire, you right away quick jumps up to the Lord, (Pointing up.) I guess I dry me dat too when my time was come Doctor. (To Crist ) I don'tjthink he will stand it much longer — See, he is getting weaker — I am afraid he is past ray help. Crist We'll see if he has made his peace with his good Lord — maybe he has a dying request to make. Say, Sampsom, my good lad, can we do anything for ye — what is your last request on this earth ? 36. THE PATRIOTS. Sampson. {Pause.) Oh, Massa Christ, give me a chaw tobaccer. Crist. Well, did you ever hear the like of that ? Could the heathen go to meet his God with a chew tobacco in his mouth — he'd better be asking for a Priest. Doc. Remove him, men! and give him an easy bed. (Sampson carried off.) Crist. Yes, remove him — {Aside) It will bother their brains to get a soft bed in this camp The soft side of the hard frozen ground, wid a bit of straw, but nary a blanket — O, we have another patient, Di)ctor, — our Cap- tain, Seth Peabody. The poor fellow has been sickthese two months, he's scarcely able to walk, {Looking to L ) but I see he is out this morning, and coming this way- Doc. Captain Seth Peabody ! Why, I knew him in JBos- ton. Crist Did you, and are yees from Boston ? Faith, I thought I knew you — How do you do, Doctor Lincoln ! Boston is the first place I landed at in America. We are all Boston boys, here. {Shaking hands.) Enter Seth, L 2 E. Doc. Captain Peabody, I am glad to see you, but sorry to see you looking so miserable. Seth. Doctor, I am glad to see you. How were all the folks down in Boston when you left? We are all kinder miserable here, and if I had my health I'd walk right through that Continental Congress, and wake 'em up, un- less they furnish us more clothes, and provisions, and money, and everything else we need to keep the poor sol- diers alive. Why, they are dying off here like sheep with the hoof rot. I was boiling over with patriotism, and all that sort of thing, about the time of the Lexington and Bunker Hill fights. The fight is clear out of me now; I am done fighting for glory — I want something to exercise my jaws on. Crist. Yes, Captain, we all want something. If we were only back in Boston now what a time we would have eating baked beans and pork and Boston brown-bread, wid a good pot of ginger beer, or something a little stronger, to wash it down wid. Doc. Gentlemen, your wants in that respect will be THE PATRIOTS. 37. soon supplied. General Washington is doing his utmost to hurry supplies to tlie army, but that Congress that is always doing somtthing in the wrong time, has relieved Colonel Trumbull from the head of the Quartermaster and Commissary Department, and thereby deranged the whole L>,stem of procuiing supplies, and the few supplies on hand can not be forwarded on account of the bad condi- tion of the road. Seth. If it wasn't for our great General, we'd be march- ina to Congress and deranging their whole sj'stem for 'em, bad roads wouldn't stop us. Crist. Faith, they would not. Bad 'cess to 'em. (Doe- for prescribes for Seth and Seth retires.) Doc Sergeant, you say you are all Boston boys here. Well, if so, you can probably inform me where I can find one Buell Pomero}' ? Crist. Buell, is it; faith, I can. Doc. I have a valuable letter for him from Miss Rose. Crist. You have a letter for him, from Rose Creighton — sure, that's just whals ailing him all along. He is the chap that went for the soldiers in Boston, at the massacre where Miss Rose's little brother Willie was killed in cold blood, by them bloodthirsty devils. That British officer, Captain Preston, stands in had boots, if Buell ever meels •nm, for he swore to kill him wherever he met him. Buell took the little boy's body home to Rose and her sister Kate, and he saw them taking on so bad, so he came back to the boys — who were wid faira in the row — got down on his knees, and such another oath you never heard a mortal man make. Ever since then I never valued that Captain's skin worth a sixpence. Doc. I have learned that the Misses Creighton are much obliged to him for a great deed of kindness, conse- quently are much interested in his welfare. Where is he ; can you send for him here. Sergeant ? Crist. That I kin. Doctor. {Goes to Hut.) Corporal Dunningan, go down to Colonel Frazier's quarters, and tell Major Buel! Pomeroy that the new Doctor from Bos- ton sinds his compliments, and wants to see him here im- mediately, if not sooner. (^Returning to the Doctor.) You see, Doctor, Buell has been promoted to Major by 38. THE PATRIOTS. General Washington, and he has as fine a set of scouts under his command as ever sl'-iuiilled horses. They c:r them the "Eiders uf the Santee." The Scouts they always turn up at the right time, wherever they are wanted. B t here comes the gentleman himself He is a little under the weather, like the rest of ns, but that letter from M''ss Rose will cure him. Ente, BuELL L.. 2 E. Doctor Lincoln, Major Buell Pomeroy — Major Pome- roy, Doctor Lincoln. (They shake hands.) (Aside) Oi . I'll get used to American manners soou. Buell. I am happy to meet you. Doctor; 1 learn you are just from Boston. JDoc Yes, Major, I am just from Boston, find I have lieen entrusted with this letter (presenting it) by Miss Rose Creigbton, and I feel sure its perusal by you w'l drive away the gloomy thoughts and surroundings, and for the time forget you are in Valley Forge Buell. A thousand thanks to you, Doctor. Pray ex- cuse me. (Retires up — Reads.) Crist. Doctor. Boc. Well, Sergeant? Crist. I don't feol very well myself this morning. (Playing off sick.) What have yon in the black bottle there ? Boc. In this bottle? (Holding it up.) This is only used in extreme cases (Smiling ) Crist, I think this is an extreme case then. I feel ■ o sick I'm on the top of the sick list, too. Boc. You may take a little of it, then, if you are so sick (Giving bottle.) Crist. God bless you, sir. (Takes a long pull ) Boc. Sergeant! Sergeant, (taking, bottle from him,) that will do. Crist. Y'es, Doctor, but I feel so bad. Another swig of it will cure me. Boo. Touch it lightly, Sergeant. (Giving bottle ) Brist. Thank you, Doctor, I feel bet'er now. Bui Doctor, you don't look altogether well this morning; you look i)ale ; hadn't you better take a bit of the creature, too ? Boc. Oh, no, thauK you, Sergeant, I think not. THE PATRIOTS. 39. Crist. Oh, well, of course ynu know best — you are the Doctor. ( Wiping his mouth.) BuELL comes down ; Two soldiers come out of Hut and shake a blanket ; Krodt comes out, shakes his tattered and torn 2>iece of a blanket very gently, and then looks at it, making some remark ; the first two go in and an- other soldier comes out, with an armfull of straw ; he shakes it up, and tlun goes in ; ^rovt follows. Doc Cheering news, I presume, Major? Buell Yes, Doctor, the mail is the soldiers only friend in these blustering limes of war. Doc. Especially when the mail is from a dear female. ( Watching Buell closely ) Buell. Yes, I see by this note that the carrier can truly read; howl welcome such tidings. I can speak freely to you now; and first, allow me to congratulate you for being the accepted suitor of Miss Kate Creighton, a most estimable lady. Doc I can return the compliment, and I pray you. Major, accept my congratulations for being the accepted suitor of her sister, Miss Rose Creighton, who is worthy of your generous love. (^Distant shouts heard — Doctor and Buell listen.) Crist. (Aside.) I suppose they will be brothers in-law, soon — husbands to a fine pair of girls at that. That makes me think. (Scratching his head ) When will I ever see my sweet Kathleen ? (Distant shouts heard ) Doc. (Looking off L.) What means this shouting ? Buell. I think Washington is walking through the camp, encouraging the soldiers. Their love for him is preventing mutiny and wholesale desertion from this pen of death. (Shouts come closer — "All soldiers turn out of quarters ") Enter Washington from L. 'i E.. dressed in large cloak — Snowing. ■ Omnes. Huzza ! Long live Washington ! Wash. Cheer up, bravo men, I am aware of your suf- fering condition ; clothing and provisions will soon be in camp. Be calm and obedient to your officers, insubordi- nation will result only in evil — think of the cause you are 40. THE PATRIOTS. Soldier. General, we know our conduct has been mn- tinous, but our condition justified it. We are actually starving, and relief must be bad. >Ve viere going to inarch out in an orderly manner into tbe country, seize provisions wherever they could he found, giving in reto . certificates as to the atneunt and value of articles taken, and then return to camp, and to our duty. Wash. It grieves me to the heart to see you thus, but I am straining every nerve to obtain relief. Soldier. General, we know you are our friend. Con- gress is to blame for our condition ; we are starving her and shall soon be of no service to you or our country. We love you and the cause in which we are embarked. We will stand by you at all hazards, and defend with ovc last drop of blood our common country, but food we must and will have. {Going down B, ) Wash. [Much moved ) My faithful soldiers, I admire the manly giounds you take in defense of your conduct, I have long admired your patience, resignation and devo- tion to your country under these most trying f»ircumst;in ees, and if the provisions do not arrive by a t-ertain tim" I will place myself at your head, and march into the coun- try, until they are found; Omnes. Long live George Washington ! Soldier. God bless you. General ! Wash. I have issued a proclamation, in which I have ordered all farmers within seventy miles of Valley For^o to thresh out half of their grain by the first of February, and the other half by the first of March, under penalty ol having the whole seized as straw Sold. These Tory farmers are worse than our enemy. Wash. My gallant men, I have good tidings for you — our cause looks brighter. General Gates and his brave army in the North succeeded in hemming in the enemy's entire army under Lieut. Gen Biirgoyne, and compelled it to surrender on very favorable terms. Omnes. Hurrah! hurrah! (Shouting — Guns) Wash. The overthrow of Burgoyne will fix the waver- ing attitude of France, and a treaty of defensive alliani \ as well as of amity and commerce in all probability cr'i now be arranged without a doubt. ■THE PATRIOTS. 41. Omnes. Long live the King of France! Long live La Fayette! (Loud shouting.) Wash. An alliance with France, one of the strongest powers on the globe, will assure the success of the Amer- ican arms. Omnes. "The American States," and "Long lire Wash- ington." SCENE 11 — Landscape, 2 er) If there be one amongst us, who even in thought, subscribed to this unworthy offer, let him at once depart, and carry with him the mark of Cain upon THE PATRIOTS. 43. his forehead, and be forever pointed at as the tea^'iorous slaver of his counlrj-'s liberty. Con. I'll answer with my life, there is no such man amongst us. iVash I'm glad to hear you say so General Conway, and in thus otter 0":, in all sincerity, my hand to a brave, honorable soldier, forget forever the slanderous whispers which have reached my ears. I cannot err in supposing that a sense of justice will banish fiom Jiis heart, also, the degrading doubts, and evil thonghis. engendered there by othei's, whose poor malignity and selfish aim must, in the end recoil upon themselves, for, whde I am actuated by no hope beyond the weal of our beloved land. I wear an armor so invincible, the petty shafts of malice fall upon it harmless as the summer's rain. Con. Sir, you have both shamed and conquered me. I do confess that I have listened, but too greedily, to ac- cusations levelled at your fair fame. I cast them from me now, utterly and forever. To doubt the sacredness of your mission, would be to doubi aeaven itsself ! Hence- forward both with heart and hand, in word and act, I am' entirely yours. Pardon but the past and as I live, the fu- ture shall atone. Wash. Enough, my friend, all is forgotten but our duty to our country. Has any one ascertained the movements of the enemy ? Oreene. Not with certainty. The common I'eport is that they aie evacuating Philadelphia and mean to give up battle; but the intermediate country is so disaffected to our cause, we cannot rely upon our information. Wash. I have not received any information of their plana, but I have been reliably informed that a number of Tory spies have been for weeks within our lines, watching the effect of General Lord Howe's Proclamaiion, taking beside, very can ful observations of our ill-provided army. The execution of a spy would have a wholesome effect. Fra^j. General, there may be some truth then of the en- emy's intention to draw us out into battle. They may know of our defenceless position and advance their army, and — Wash. Even then I would not despair. My neckdoes'nt 44. THE PATRIOTS. feel as if it was made for a halter. No, gentlemen, if the God of battles in the wisdom of his Providence, should avert his aid from the cause of humanity, we will make our last stand here — this shall be our ThermopylJB of Freedom, when its Spartan defenders will achieve immor- tality even through the medium of defeat and death ! {Qun eeard outside Alarm Bi'uni ) Wha.i means this tumuli in the camp? I hope it is not a surprise. (Loud laughter outside) The surprise does not seem to be a harmful one. Now, Orderly ! JSnter, Orderly. L. Orderly. A prisoner, General. Wash. By whom captured ? Orderly. I do not know, sir. Captain Seth Peabody has him in charge. Enter, Seth, L with Curry, guarded by sentinel. Wash. What means this tumult in camp ? Seth I beg a million pardons for the boys, kase they all feel sorter good, General, to see this fellow catched, and they persuaded me to bring the chap afore you. You may want to know something about him. Wash. Who is he, and what has he been doing ? Seth. My Sergeant says he is a Spy. Gurry. General, I deny the charge. I am a resident of Philadelphia. Wash. That would not prevent you from being a spy upon the Americans. (To Seth) Was he caught within our Vnes? Seth. Major Buell's scouts caught him prowling about our lines. They arrested and searched him, and found these papers on his \)ersor\. [giving papers) They brought him into camp and said my sergeant can cook his goose for him (Curry ve?'i/ uneasy) andhurried off again to join 'he Major. Here comes the Seigeant. Enter Crist, B Wash. Sergeant, what do you know about this man ? Grist. Please your honor, Girieral, 'tis I that knows Mr. Jeems Curry. He is a bad egg. He's a dirty, skeam- ing ould villain. The devil and him only knows what he's been up to these last ten years. He is the very chap that was contriviving to kidnop the Adamses and Hancock up THE PATRIOTS. 45. 5\t Boston a few years ago. Faith, he followed them down U) Philadelphia. Major Buell and myself were sint there wid papers for the Congress, and the very day the Decla- raion was passed, my laddy-buck was on lhest''eets, say- ing he was a free-born English subject, and all that sort of blarney, and that he'd like to see the Continental Con- gress, General Washington, and all the rest of us hung. Wash. {Perusing Papers) These papers found on your person are sufficient evidence of your being a spy. (Observing him) Yes, I also recognize in your counte nance that villainous guide, who was to take General Braddock to Fort Du Quesne, but led us into an ambush. Captain, place him under a strong guard. (Exeunt Seth, Sentinel and Curry L) Crist. You'll die with your brogans on you. (Follows <#) Wash Gentlemen these papers are very important to us. The delay of an hour would be fatal to our exis- tence. The enemy has planned an attack, and Major Bu- ell informs me that be can frustrate it ; but, we must guard against a surprise. I will therefore, summon a council of war, and determine on a movement ot the army. Yoit, Colonel, must also be present. Fraz. Your Excellency, I'm not much of a hand at planning. I like to have my work laid out for me. When I know I have so much fighting to do Jand so many min- utes to do it in, I can go right about it. You just plan an attack on Tartarus, and I'll undertake to storm the gates. Greene. But, Colonel, the General desires your pres- ence. Wash, I must have your opinion. Colonel. Too much, responsibility rests upon us, to justify a superficial consid- eration of our course of action. (Exeunt L) Quick Change. 46. THE PATRIOTS. SCENE 111— oth G. Battle Orovnd of Monmouth; Diy charge of musketry is kept up hehind wings; Conti- nentals retreating in confusion across stage from L to R ; Cojl Frazieb fndeavoring to stay the retrea ' Enter Washington /rom B. Wash. (In a rage ) Hold I men ! for shame ! Are you the men I am to defend America with ? Colonel, what means this conduct? Fraz. Sir, General Lee is in full flight and disorde'ly retreat. Wash. Full flight, from what ? Fraz. Fleeing from a mere shadow. Enter more Continentals from L , reloading, among them a wounded standard bearer. Washington taken his colors. Wash. Rally around me, this day will yet be ours! (Continentals appe ir at H wing under Seth ) (To hm ziER ) Colonel, I depend on your men to check this ^ treat. (Cheei's ) Now, soldiers, this important hour may decide our countr3''s fate ; may the guiding star of Amer ican liberty this day lead us to another victory. Think of your homes, your mothers, wives and children! T" you do not follow, here shall I find my grave, fur not one inch will I retreat. Omnes On ! on ! Long live Washington ! Enter eight British Soi.oieks. L . fommanded by Pef- TON. Both Armies keep up a Orish fire Mu.nc. A Voice from Continental Side. Eeinforcements are coming ! Another Voice. Hurrah for Major Buell and the Eiders of the Santee! (Bugle sounds a charge; loud shouting.) Wash Forward ! guide centre, charge ! (Continentals inoveforwuM to L , led by Washington At same time enter YyQv.i,h from li 1 M with 5 Ride, %oho file across singe, backs to audience, and fire Be- ETX and Peeston behold each other and tliey run avd cross swords. Continentals drive Beitish off L. and the Riders make a "right wheel'' and follow. Bufll and Pi.'ESTON spring apart and take distance ) THE PATRIOTS. 47. Prest. (Abide) I feel my hour has come; I would >.i.)oner have met the devil himself than him BueU Preston, I'll now fulfill the oath 1 marie over the Ixidies of my countrymen, whom you massacred in cold lilood at Boston, and avenge their deaths, or die in the attempt. Prcsi. Sir, and I have longed to meet you ; now make your vaunJngs true. BueU. With all my heart ; your life or mine. Come ! (They a<)vance andflghl. Music. Peeston looiinds Bu- ELi, and BuELL kills Preston Durinq the combat en- tel^ Seth, Crist, Krout, and Sampson ; when Peeston foils they shout, and f ..nei The daj' is our» Picture. Red Fire. Sampson. Kkout. Crist. Seth. Buell. Preston. Quick Deop anx) Rises on Tableau — "Surrender of Hessians to Washington." Curtain. ACT IV. SCENE I — Parlor, 4, G , Door in C; Dressing stand and settees on R. and L ; Upholstered chairs to auit; Marble-top centre table: Bas/i;et of cut flowers. Rose discovered on B. and Kate on L. of table, making wreathes and bouquets. C. D. open, and backed by landscape; carpet on stage. Kaie. Sister Rose, why do you look so sad ? Surely to-day above all others since the Declaration of Peace, j'ou should feel as gay and happy as our returning heroes feel, who are to be welcomed to our city and crowned with wreathes and flowers on their homeward journey. 48. THE PATRIOTS. Bose Dear Kate, I know our heroes will feel gay am? happy to day as they march through under the Triumphp' Arch, their path 6lrewn with flowers, and with the thought of being met on the other side of it by loving wives, ani'. sisters, and kindred dear. How gladly would we welcome and enfold our arms around a kindred, but God in His wisdom has bereft us of all blood relations. To think that our dear soldiers, who have for years battled for Liberty and our Homes will this day have a Gala-Day, cheers me; but, remember, dear sister, to day is also the anniversary of brother Willie's death. Kate. I know it, [pnusel but I did not wish to speak of it. We will ever rememder the woful day ; his bleed- ing form was laid at our feet on that memorable morn in Boston. But as he is past all worldlj' care., and gone to meet our father and mother in Heaven, I have long since yielded due submission to our C-'eator, and you should- too Hose. I have. Still we are left alone in this world, no brother nor sister, and I sometimes think we are entirely friendless and forsaken. Kate. Come, cheer up, Rose ; we are not entirely friend- less; remember, I am soon to have a brother, and one doubly dear to you and mc since he is the avenger of Wil- lie's death, — and besides, he will some day make you happy. There, you are looking sad again ! Rose. Yes, and I feel sad for him. Remember, by aveng- ing the death of our brother — through no other motive but to see justice meeted out to the perpetrator of the horrid deed — our noble friend Buell Pomeroy came near losing his own life when he met that villain Capt, Preston face to face at the battle of Monmouth, and while in dead- ly combat with him was dangerously wounded. Kate. Don't borrow more trouble; the Major has fully recovered from his wounds through your kind nursing while on furlough. I am waiting patiently to see the day when he will be your — that is, my brother-in law. Recol- lect, with the declaration of peace dates your uncondition- al surrender to him as a prisoner, to be led to Hymen's Altar. Bose. Let us change the subject for the present, or I THE PATRIOTS. 49. ma}' refort with the same weapons upon some one who is ninnino; a narrow escape from l)eing captured in the same wav Don't you think we have bouquets enough — all we can carry ? Kate. Perhaps we have. Dear me; I would wish we could present each color hearer in the line with a wreath, and every soldier with a bouquet. \Holding up a hou- quet ]_ Isn't that a pretty one ? I'll reserve this for the Boston B03' I see passing by in the ranks. [Bell rings.) There goes the bell, — why, how forgetful we are, — 'tis already ten o'clock; the hour Major Pomeroy was to call to accompany us down street to witness the Grand Entre of the troops into the city. — I'll go to the door. (Exits CD) Rose. (Going to glass, arranging toilet and goes to window ) The Major is punctual, and with him comes Dr. Lincoln. That accounts for Kate's cheerfulness this morn- ing. (Goes to C. D.) [Enter Buell C. D.from L. followed by Kate escor- ing Doctor Lincoln. Bose I am so delighted to see you, Major. [Taking him, by the hand ) Good morning, Doctor. [Courtesies.) Doctor Good morning. Miss Creighton. Bose This is a lovely May morning for the army to march through our city, is it not? The rain early this morning layed the dust nicely, and, besides, it kept the flowers on the Grand Arch, and those decorating the hous- es along the line of march, more fresh. Buell. This is really a beautiful morning, — the air is cool and scented with the rich perfume of the flowers so liberally strewn on the streets. A soldiers' march is sel- dom bedded with flowers, and lined with glad and smilling faces as their march this morning will be. Kate. [Coming dotvn to table.) We were so busily en- gaged making these wreaths and l)Ouquets [all come dou-n to table) to present to the soldiers, and talking of one thing and another, [Bose, unen.sy.) that Rose was almost forgetting your your promised call. Doctor, of course you will do us the honor to accompany the Major and us to see the grand entree of General Washington and the Armv? 50. THE PATRIOTS. Doc. Certainly. Nothing will afford me more pleasure, Miss Creighton. I am at your services. Rose. ( Pinning a nosegay on Buell's coat.) Major, what hour does the march begin ? Buell. For eleven o'clock, it is ordered. 'Tis near that now. Kate. (Pinning a nosegay on charm — Rose Tut, tut, Doctor ! Tlie old compliment. This i» no time to listen to little words of useless flattery, just reserve them for the future. Buell. Reserve ibem for whom, for you ? Rose Oh, no. D«c Why, Major, I hope you are not getting jealous of your brotherin-law, 5o soon ? Kate. Of course not, Doctor. He accords you the same rights he takes Why, he has been talking love t<> me for weeks — Doc For weeks ? Buell. Don't get jealous, Doctor. Kate, That was before I met you though. '{All laugh,) Doc. Oh, was it? Well, I'll not get jealous. You are about to become my wife, and to think of getting jealous at this moment would blight ray future happiness, cool my devotion, and destroy that confidence due all faithful lovers. Kate. Ha, ha, ha ! Doctor, you are getting in a fit of poetry. Buell (At settee) My dear Rose, this day I claim those long coveted jewels I prize so dearly, your heart and hand. Rose. In exchange, I claim my love's faithful vow for mine. — (i?«octoe ) Ladies, Captain Seth Peabody ; Lieutenant Jacob Krout; Sergeant Ctist O'Rieley, and, Sampson Foster, of Oie Wirginny. {They all courtesy ) Rose and Kate. Welcome to you ail, gentlemen. Kate. Old companions in arms, I presume? Samp. Jes' so. Misses, Jes' so. Seth (Aside to Buell ) I say, Major, what's all this going on here ? Crist. (Aside to Doctor ) Doctor, phat's all this fine fixing on the ladies mean ? (Keout and Sampson talk apart.) Buell. Gentlemen, you call at a happy time, and an ex- planation is necessary : The Doctqr and myself — and I am sure our betrothed wires too — will feel much honored by your presence at our double wedding to day. Krout. I dought me it was someding like das. Well, I don't care, I stay mit you. Crist. Faith, that we will. Seth. Hang me, if I don't stay a week before I go home to Bosting to show Mrs. Peabody her husband, aud after seven years' absence at that. (JSnter Servant with letter for Bdell and returns.) Buell. This is from the Colonel. (Opens and reads ) "Dear Uncle Buell : — I much regret that I must forego the honor of being present at your wedding The Hud- son River was so swollen that I could not cross the ferry with my carriage in time to reach you. Will arrive by evening. A pleasant time to you and yours. Your nephew, Col. Allen Pomerot. This will necessitate the selection of one to act in his stead. Who do you propose? (Enter Servant.) Servant. General Washiugton. Omnes. General Washington. (Enter Washinwton.) 58. THE PATRIOTS. Wash. Pray pardon my intrusion, ladies and gentle- men. Doc. (^Approaching him ) A most welcome intruder. General, (PresenUny him to Kate.) the future Lady Lin- coln. (Kate courtesies.) Buell. (Presenting Rose ) General, allow me to pre- sent to you the future Lady Pomeroy. The wedding ceremony lakes place this morning, and nothing would give us more joy than to be honored with your presence. Wash. Your wish shall be gratified. I assure you, gentlemen, nothing will give me more joy than to, see such faithful officers united to the choice of their hearts. La- dies, accept my congratulations in your choice of worldly protectors ; braver and more valiant geutlemen are not to be found. Rose and Kate. Thanks, General, thanks. Hose. General, everything is prepared and the wedding liells are ringing, but just at this moment intelligence reached us, that the only living relation of the contracl- 'ag parties is unable to be present to officiate in giving the brides away, therefore, I venture to say that the Fath- er of our Country will not deny us the honor to officiate in his stead. Wash. I only feel ]too much honored to comply with your request, ladies. Buell. The General, then, will lead as usual. ( Wash- ington offers his arm to the ladies. Exits C. B.) Gen- tlemen, will you escort us to the Chapel ? Seth. Excuse us, JMajor, we will stay here and welcome you back. Buell. Then help yourselves to refreshments in the sideboard there. {Exit Maids with Buell and Doctor.) Samp. Golly, dat's de Major out and out, and, dog- gone me, if his gal ain't the verry pusson that done give me dat bucKet of flowers on that are march a couple weeks ago. Crist. And the other one is the same dear creature that put that wreath around my neck. I only wished it were them arms of hers at the time. Krout. [Going to wing.) Whar de duyfel ish dat side- board mit der refreshments. THE PATRIOTS. 59. Sc/,h Ring the hell, Squire, thac"s tbe way we call for thinijs at hum. {Sitting with feat up on table.) Kront. (Strikes bell on table } Wo bist dere, come- arouse! (^raie/- Servant /row Z. TI. E.) Bring in dat sideboard, putty guick ! Seth. Never mind the sideboard, fetch in the refresh ments. [Exit Servant.) Sarnp. Golly, we's g wine to hab some re- fresh er-ments. Krout. Say, Sashant, don't they got a little limburger here, too ? Crist. What de divil d'ye want limburgur for, do ye want to stink the house out ? yVhat do ye want to be eating for every day ? Did 3'e not have something to eat day- before yesterday ? What, do ye want to make a glut- ton of j'ourself ? [Enter Servant luith tray, ivine bottles and glasses.) Krout, [Taking bottle. )Ya.-w, yaw, dat's de stuff, Ehine wine. Setfi. Fill 'em up for us. Lieutenant, and get your hand in for business. [He Jills up and they all drink.) Crist Let's have another; fill 'em up again. Krout. [Disgustingly.) What, Sashant. do you want to make a glutton von yourself? [Drinks out of bottle.) Crist. [Taking bottle from him ) Honld on, Dutchey, just don't be making one of yourself. Seth. Krout, now give us a song. Omnes. Song ! Song ! Krout. I got a cold, but I'll try. [Sings a song.) Omnes. Good, good ! Crist. Well, boys, lets fill 'em up and drink to the health of the fair ladies and gentlemen, just gone to the church. [Drink again.) Be Gorry, they are back already. [Exit Servant wi7A tray, glasses, die , L. U. E.) [Enter Buell and Rose and go to R. Washington dovm. on A Doctor and Kate go to L. Maids enter and assist the brides at toilet. Lively Music.) Seth. Ladies and gentlemen, I congratulate you all for myself and the rest of us. May you all have a long life, and a happy one. All. Same to you, gentlemen. [All courtesy.) 60. THE PATRIOTS. Samp. (Aside to Crist and Kkodt.) Doesn't we all kiss the brides ? Crist. Hould your gob, ye ondacint beast, whodedivll would kiss you ? Samp. Why, they all does it in Ole Wirginny. (BuELL strikes bell on table.) Buell. Gentlemen, let us take a little wine before din- ner. (^«, fines. [Cheers.) lut Cong. ( To Bdell ) With j'our permission we will make known our busines to General Washington here. (BuELL hoivs in acquiescence.) 1st Cong. General, the impossibility to govern the cduntry by a Congress since the close of the war, grew every day more and more apparent, and consequently the recent convention, ot which yon were the honored presi dent, gave us the Constitution of the United Slates, and the first step for us to take provided by that constitution will be the election of a President. All eyes are turned 'o yon; and we are appointed by your fellow countrymen to tender you the nomination. (Ommes cheers ) Wash. Fellow countrymen, I must decline in accord- ance with my firm resolution, made known to you through my farewell address to the army, from accepting any pub- lic oflace I hoped then to become a private citizen on the banks of the Potomac; and, under the shadow of vay own vine and fig tree, free fiom the bustle of a camp and busy scene of public life, to solace myself with those tran- quil enjoyments of which the soldier and statesman have but little conception. 1st Cong. General, break your resolve for once. To see the goodly fabric you have reared with so much toil aud care fall to the ground, and the nation you have saved from bondage become the by-word and scoff of Kings, is a contemplation from which we turn our faces. We ap- peal, sir, to your love and devotion to your country, and we call on you to rescue it once more. Wash. {After a pause.) You use an unkind weapon, aud apply it unrelentingly on the only weak point I pos- sess, — love of country, I, reluctantly, accept the nomin- ation. Id Cong. And a grateful countrj' will acknowledge that debt of gratitude and love due to its defender and most honored citizen, by placing him in the highest office with- in the gift of a free, brave aud liberty-loving people He, whose arm wielded the invincible sword of victory, and pointed out to us a Free Country, will establish justice, 62. THE PATRIOTS. insure ilomestie tranquility, promote the gnneral welfare,- and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity for centuries to come. Long live Washington 1 Onuien. Long live Washington ! [Proloiujed rlice.rn ) DISPOSITION OF CHARACTERS. Maid .Maid. SicTii. Samp. Krout. Crist. Vjvvaa. and Rose. Doctor and Kate. congke.ssmen. washington congressmen. Quick Curtain. Curtain Rises on Tableau — " Washington Resigns His Sword to Congress." ^^,o^OA'V^r> ':^^^^''^'^'!^''-^n..;i,A^^,^M>^^^^^^ 'y^^^^f^^r^f\ T^v^;::?:?ee^^^,^^,,^ ^'^Aa.-A W^^^i^A^^'^^^, ;^/^^A^-^A^ Deacidified using the Bookkeeper proci Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide Treatment Date: Sept. 2009 PreservationTechnoiogi A WORLD LEADER IN COLLECTIONS PRESERVAI 111 Thomson Park Drive Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (724)779-2111 ^■^oA/^n^/'C'?^'^^'^^^^ /^^/^r^n''^'^/^''^'^„A,^,A, /lAonr/ .^--'naJ^' A^«' ^^,'^'^Arv. A/^A^W?^^ '^Aorr^^^'-^K^'^^P^AA^.^^/^^^n^,^/^/ ^^^/^'^"v^n/^,^A• '''<^^^^i^^^^. ^A/^AA.A.^A^^^.^^^' LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 016 165 368 8 "•