LIB RET T 0 and PRINCIPAL - CHORUS VOCAL BOOK
STUART OSTROW
Presents
America's Award Winning Musical
Book by:
PETER STONE
Music and Lyrics by:
SHERMAN EDWARDS
Best MusicalNew York Drama critics· Circle Award 1968-69Tony Award 1968-69
Property of:
MUSIC THEATRE INTERlf\TIONAL119 West 57th StreetNew York, New York 10019
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Members of the Continental Congress
PresidentJOHN
'New HampshireDR. JOSIAH BARTLETT
I1assachusettsJOHN ADAMS
Rhode IslandSTEPHEN HOPKINS
ConnecticutROGER SHERMAN
New YorkLEtJVIS ivlORRISROBERT LIVINGSTON
New JerseyREV. JONATHAN WITHERSPOON
pennsylvaniaBENJM1IN FRANKLINJOHN DICKINSONJAMES t"lILSON
DelawareCAESAR RODNEYCOL. THOH1\S 14cKEANGEORGE READ
MarylandCHASE
VirginiaRICHARD HENRY LEETHOMAS JEFFERSON
North CarolinaJOSEPH HEWES
South CarolinaEDt-lARD RUTLEDGE
GeorgiaDR. LYliAlil HALL
Secretary:CHARLES THOMSON
CustodianANDREW McNAIR
ABIGAIL ADAMS
MARTHA JEFFERSON
A LEATHER APRON
,1\ PAINTER
A COURIER
THE PLACE
A single setting representing the Chamber and an Anteroomof the Continental Congress, a Mall, High Street, andThomas Jefferson's Room, in Philadelphia; and certainreaches of John Adams' mind.
THE TIME
May, June and July, 1776.
THE SCENES
1. The Chamber of the Continental Congress
2. The Mall
3. The Chamber
-4. Thomas Jefferson's Room and High Street
5. The Chamber
6. A Congressional Anteroom
7. The Chamber
* * * * *
NOTE: The action is continuous, withoutintermission ..
(or may be played in Two Actsas indicated in the script).
THE MUS I CAL NUMBERS
Scene 1:"FOR GOD'S SAKE, JOHN, SIT DOWN" Adams k The Congress"PIDDLE, cr'WIDDLEu Adams"TILL THEN tI Adams" Abigail
Scene 2:"THE LEES OF OLD VIRGINIA II Lee, Franklin k Adams
Scene 3:"BUT, MR, ADAMS -- II Adams, Franklin,
Jefferson, Sherman" Livingston
Scene 4:"YOURS, YOURS, YOURS II Adams " Abigail"HE PLAYS THE VIOLIN" ••••••••••• Martha, Franklin " Adams
Sene 5:"COOL, COOL CONSIDERATE MEN II ••••••••••••• Dickinson k The
conservativesIlMOMMA LOOK Sr1ARP If Courier
Scene 6:liTHE EGG" ••••••••••••••••••••• Franklin, Adams, Jefferson
" Congress
Scene 7:"MOLASSES TO RUM II
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Rutledge"COMPLIMENTS" AbigailillS ANYBODY THER.E?" Adams, Franklin,
Jefferson, ThompsonI
1-1
Scene 1
In front of the Curtain:
JOHNI have corne to the conclusion that one useless man iscalled a disgrace -- that two are called a law-firm --and that three or more become a Congress. And by God,I have had this Congress! For ten years King George andhis Parliament have gulled, cullied and diddled theseColonies with their illegal taxes -- Stamp Acts, TownshendActs, Sugar Acts, Tea Acts -- and when we dared stand uplike men they stopped our trade, seized our ships,blockaded our ports, burned our towns and spilled ourblood -- and still this Congress won't-grant any of myproposals on Independence even so much as the courtesy ofopen debate! Good God, what in hell are they waiting for?!
(The Curtain flies up to reveal:
The of the SecondContinental Congress inPhiladelphia.
AT RISE: CONGRESS is in session, swelteringin the heat of a prematuresumnler's eveningo A large day-by-day ",l1al1 calendar reads 8. II
CONGRESS(Singing)
SIT JOHN!SIT Jom\! 1FOR GOD'S SAKE, JOHN,SIT DOWN!
S ttl' DOUN, JOHN!SIT DOWN, JOHN!FOR GODIS SAKE,SIT DOWN!
VOICESO!-1EONE OUGHT TO OPEN UP A
CONGRESSIT'S NINETY DEGREES!HAVE JOHN, PLEASE 1IT'S HOT AS HELL INPHILADEL -- PHIAl
TWO VOICESSOMEONE OUGHT TO OPEN UP A WINDOW!
JOHNI SAY "VOTE YESI"
IIVOTE YES1"VOTE FOR INDEPENDENCY!
CONGRESS lIA u
SOMEONE OUGHT TO UP A WINDOW!
JOHNI SAY VOTE "YES 1'1
CONGRESSSIT DOWN, JOHN!
JOHNVOTE FOR INDEPENDENCY!
VOICE FR0i4 CONGRESS ItB II
SOl/lEONE OUGHT TO OPEN UP A WINDOW 1
CONGRESS liB"NO! NO! NO.!TOO FLIES 1TOO I,\1ANY FLIES!
CONGRESS "A"BUT IT'S HOT AS HELL INPHILADEL -- PHIA a •• !
VOICES FROU CONGRESS "A"ARE YOU GOING TO OPEN UP A WINDOW?
CONGRESS IIA"CAN'T tiJE
••• ?
JOHNVOTE "YESl"
CONGRESS UB II
NO I TOO HAblYFLIES HERE .....
JOHNVOTE "YESl lI
CONGRESS (FULL)OH, FOR GOD'S SAKE, JOHN,SIT DOrJN1
(THEY freeze)
1-2
1-3
JOHN(Spoken; roaring)
Good God!! Consider yourselves fortunate that you haveJohn Adams to abuse for no sane man would tolerate it!
CONGRESS(Action resumes)
JOHN, YOU'RE A BORE!WE'VE HEARD THIS BEFORE1NOW, FOR GOD'S SAKE, JOHN,SIT DOtVl'l!!
JOHNI SAY "VOTE YESl lt
S01'1E VOICESNOt!
JOHNVOTE "YES!II
CONGRESS (FULLNO! !
JOHNVOTE FORINDEPENDENCY
CONGRESS ItAu
SOMEONE OUGHT TO OPEN UP A WIWDOW!
JOHNI SAY VQTE "YES! II
CONGRESS (FULL).SIT DOtvN, JOHi" 1
JOHNVOTE FOR INDEPENDENCY.!!
VOICEWILL SOMEONE SHUT THAT i·IAN UP! 1
JORi"(Spo,\Cen)
Never 1 Never! .(HE storms from the Chamber, comingdownstage, and looks to Heaven forguidance) i
Dear Godl For one solid year they have been sitting there-- for one year! Doing nothing!
1-4
JOHi\l (Continued)(Singing)
I DO BELIEVE YOU'VE LAID A CURSE ONNORTH &villRICA ••• IA CURSE TEAT WE HERE NOW REHEARSE INPHILADELPHIA ••• 1A SECOND FLOOD, A FAMINE,PLAGUES OF LOCUSTS EVERn1HERE,OR A CATACLYSMIC EARTHQUAKE,I' D ACCEPT l'1ITH SOl·IE DESPAIR ..•BUT, NO, YOU'VE SENT US CONGRESSGOOD GOD, SIR, WAS THAT FAIR?
I SAY THIS WITH HUMILITY INPHILADELPHIA ••• 1WE'RE YOUR RESPONSIBILITY INPHILADELPHIA ••• !IF YOU DON'T UAUT TO SEE US HANGINGON SONE FAR OFF BRITISH HILLIF YOU DON'T THE VOICE OF INDEPENDENCYFOREVER STILL,THEN, GOD, SIR, GET THEE TO ••• !FOR CONGRESS NEVER WILLI
YOU SEE t'lEPIDDLE, TWIDDLE, AND RESOLVE.NOT ONE THING DO WE SOLVE.PIDDLE, TWIDDLE, AND RESOLVENOTaING'S EVER SOLVED INFOUL, FETID, FUHING, FOGGY, FILTHY
PHILADELPHIA!
(From the Chamber, rear, the VOICESof various CONGRESSMEN can be heard)
VOICESOMEONE OUGHT TO OPEN UP A WINDOW!
JOHN(Spoken)
Oh, shut up!
COi-lGRESSi,lAN (HANCOCK)I now call the Congress' attention to the petition of Mr.Melchior who claims twenty dollars compensation for' hisdead mule. It seems the animal was employed transportingluggage in the service of the Congress.
#2 i(WILSON)The question, then, would appear to be one of occasion, forif the mule expired, not while carrying, but after being'unloaded, then surely the beast dropped dead on its owntime!
1-5
JOHNGood God!!---- --- (Singing)
THEY MAY SIT HERE FOR YEARS AND YEARS INPHILADELPHIA .•. !THESE INDECISIVE GRENADIERS OFPHILADELPHIA 1THEY CAN'T AGREE ON WHAT IS RIGHT OR WRONGOR WHAT IS GOOD OR BAD.I'M CONVINCED THE ONLY PURPOSETHIS CONGRESS EVER HAD ..• WAS TOGATHER HERE, SPECIFICALLY,TO DRIVE JOHN
YOU SEE •••PIDDLE, TWIDDLE AND RESOLVE.NOT ONE DM1NED THING DO WE SOLVE.PIDDLE, TWIDDLE AND RESOLVENOTHING'S EVER SOLVED INFOUL, FETID, FUMING, FOGGY, FILTHY •••PHILADELPHI --
(ABIGAIL ADANS, JOHN's wife, a hand-some woman of 32, now appears inJOHN's imagination and interrupts)
ABIGAILJOHN, JOHN!IS THAT YOU CARRYING ON, JOHN?
(Spoken)Oh, Abigail! Abigailheads together!
JOHN
I have such a desire to knock
ABIGAILI.know, my dearest. I know. But that's because you makeeverything so complicated. It-' s all quite simple, really:
(Singing)TELL THE CONGRESS TO DECLAREINDEPENDENCY!THEN SIGN YOUR NAJ.I1E, GET OUT OF THERE,AND HURRY HOi.·lE TO dE!OUR CHILDREN ALL HAVE DYSENTERY,LITTLE KEEPS DLUE.LITTLE ABBY HAS THE MEASLESAND liN COHING DOWN \'lITH FLU.THEY SAY WE MAY GET
JOHN(Spoken)
Madame, what else is new?
(MUSIC under)
1-6
JOHN (Continued)Abigail, in my last letter I told you that the king hascollected twelve thousand German mercenaries to send againstus -- I asked you to organize the ladies and make saltpetrefor gunpowQer -- have you done as I asked?
ABIGAILNo, John, I have not.
JOHi-JWhy have you not?
A13IGAILBecause you neglected to tell us now saltpetre is made.
JOHi.-J(Impatient)
By treating sodium nitrate with potassium chloride, ofcourse!
(A woman)Oh, yes -- of course.
JOHi..JWill it be done, then?
ABIGAILI'm afraid we have a more urgent problem, John.
More urgent, Madame?
ABIGAIL(Singing)
THERE 1 S Ol'IE THli.'iG EVbRY IS J.·iISSE..D Ii.\IBAY
DON'T SUIRK AT"I"lE, YOU bGOTIST, PAYTO WHAT I SAYl
WE'VE GONE FROM TO BOSTONAND CANNOT h Plcl.IIDON , T YOU THERE IS A Ii
SAYS EACH 'l'RADESHAN HI'I'H A'WELL!WE WILL NOT SALTPETREUNTIL YOU SEND US PINS!
JOHNPIl.JS I i,1ADAiv1E? SALTPETRE!
ABIGAILPINSI
JOHN & ABIGAIL(Alternating)
SALTPETRE!PINS!
SALTPETRE1PINS1
SALTPB'rRC: !PINSl
'PETRElPli.\lS!
•PE'rRElPINS!
•PETRElPINSJ
1-7
PINS!
(Spoken)Done, Hadamel Done I
ABIGAILDone, John.
(Smiling)Hurry home, John --
JOt:l.i.'JAs soon as I'm able.
ABIGAILDon't stop writing -- it's all I have.
JOHlSrEvery day, my dearest. friend.
ABIGAIL(Singing)
'TIL THEN ...& JOI:h4
'TIL THEN •••"I Ai-i, AS I EVER WAS, Al\lD EVER SHALL b£ •••YOURSYOURS ....YOURSYOURSYOURS
JOHNSALTPETRE •••
(Throws a kiss)••• JOHN.
ABIGAILPINS •.•
(Throws a ki S5)ABIGAIL.(SHE goes)
CONGRESSFOR GOD1S SAKE, JOaN •••SIT DOv'JN ••• !
(JOHN turns, waves them off indisgust, then crosses)
JOHN(Calling)
Franklin -- I
1-8
2-9
Scene 2
The Sunlight. BENJAMINFRANKLIN sits on a bench havinghis portrait paintod.
JOHN discovers him.
JOHN'ranklin! Where in God I s name were you t1hen I needed you?!
FRANI<LINhere, John ..... being preserved for posterity. Do y'
ike it?
JOHN(HE examines the painting carefully)
t stinks ..
(The PAINTER goes)
FRANKLIN.s ever, the soul of tact ..
JOHNhe man's no Botticelli.
FRANKLINnd the SUbject's no Venus.
JOHNIranklin! You heard what I suffered in
FRANKLIN:eard? Of course I heard -- along with the rest of phila-lelphia. Lord, your voice is piercing, John!
JOHN:' \<lish to heaven my arguments were. By God, Franklin, whenrill they make up their minds? With one hand they can
an army, dispatch one of own to lead it and:heer the news Bunker1s Hill -- while with the other
wave the olive branch begging the King for a happymd permanent reconciliation. damn it, Fat George has
us in rebellion -- why in Bloody hell can't they?1I
FRANKLINrohn, reallyl You talk as if Independence were the rule!:t I s never been done before!! No colony has ever broken:rom the parent stem in the history, of the world!
(FRANKLIN shrugs)
2-10
JOHi'iDamnit, Franklin, you make us sound treasonousl
FRANKLIl\JDO 11
(Thinking)Treason "Treason is a charge invented by winners as anexcuse for hanging the losers. 1t
JOH.L'fI have more to do than stand here listening to you quoteyourself.
FRANKLINNO, that was a new one!
JOHNDamnit, Franklin, we're at war!
To defend ourselves, nothing more. We expressed ourdispleasure, the English moved against us and we, in turn,have resisted. Now our fellow Congressmen effecta reconciliation before it becomes a war.
JOHNReconciliation my assl The People want Independence!
FRAi.'lKLIi.qThe People have read i'i.r. Paine' 5 "Common Sense. n I doubtthe Congress has.
studies JOHW)John -- why don't you give it up? Nobody listens to you --you're obnoxious and disliked.
JOHNI'm not promoting John Adams -- I'm promoting Indepenaence.
FRAi.-JI<LIhiEvidently they cannot help connecting the two.
JOHNWhat are you suggesting?
-1, FRAi>JKLI1\,fLet somebody else in Congress propose.
JOHNNever!
Why?--Who did you have in mind?
2-11
FRAlIJKLINI don't know -- I really haven't given it much thought.
(RICHARD HENRY LEE, a tall, loose-jointed Virginian aristocrat of 45,'enters)
LEEYou sent for me, Benjamin?
JOHN(Looking at LEE, then at FRANKLIN)
Never! 1
LEEHalloo, Johnny.
JOHN(Nodding)
Richard.
FRANKLIJ.IJRichard, John and I need some advice.
LEEIf it's mine t' give it's yours, y' know that.
FRALIfJ'KLIJ.\J'Thank you, Richard. As you know, the cause that we supporthas come to a complete standstill. l\!oW, why do you supposethat is?
Ll:.;ESimple! Johnny, here, is obnoxious and disliked.
FRAJ.'JKLli.\fYes, that's true. What's the solution, I wonder?
LEE(It t s obvious)
Get someone else in Congress to propose
Richard, that's brilliant! \Jasn't that brilliant, John?
JOHi\!(Dully)
Brilliant.
FRAl\lKLli\fYes. Now the question remains -- who can it be? The manwe need must belong to a delegation publicly committed tosupport Independence and at the present time onlyMassachusetts, New Hampshire and Delaware have declared ourway.
2-12
LEEAnd Virginia, Benjy -- don't forget Virginia --
FRANKLINOh, I haven't, Richard -- how could I? But strictlyspeaking, while Virginia's views on Independence are wellknown I your. legislature in \Ji lliamsburg has never formallyauthorized its delegation here in Congress to support thecause. Of course, if we could think of a Virginian withenough influence to go down there and persuade the Houseof Burgesses
LEEDamn me if I haven't thought of someonet
FRANKLIN & ADAHS(Together)
t'1ho? 1
LEEr4e! I
FRANKLINWhy didn't I think of that!
LEEI'll leave tonight -- why, hell, right now, if y' like!I'll stop off at Stratford just long enough to refresh themissus and then straight to the matter. Virginia, the landthat gave us our glorious Commander-in-Chief
(A short DHUltl ROLL)
-- George Washington -- will now give the continent itsproposal on Independencel And when Virginia proposes, theSouth is bound to Iollow -- and where the South goes theMiddle Colonies gol Gentlemen, a salute I To Virginia,the Mother of American Independence!
JOHi-JIncrediblel We're free and he hasn't even left yet!
(To LEE)What makes you so sure you can do it?
•(i-1USIC begins)
LEEHah! 1
(Singing)MY NM4E IS RICHARD HEaRY LEE!VIRGINIA IS i:lY HOiJlhMY IS RICHARD HUNRY LEE!VIRGINIA IS i·lY HOI·ill •••
LEE (Continued)AND MY HORSES TURN TO GLUEIF I CAN1T DELIVER UP TO YOUA RESOLUTION -- ON INDEPENDEwCYl
FOR I AM F. F .V•THAT IS, THE FIRSTIN THE SOVEREIGN COLONY OF VIRGINIA.THE F.F.V.THE OLDEST FAl·iILYIN THE OLDEST COLONY AlJ1ERICA t
AND, THE BRITISH LANDIF I CAN'T DELIVER TO YOUR HANDA RESOLUTION -- ON
Y' SEE IT·S -- HERB A LEETHERE A LEE
A LEE, A LBE1
& LEE(AIternating)
SOCIAL --LEE!
POLITICALLEE!
FINANCIALLEE!
NATURAL --LEBl
IWfERNALLEE!
LEE!FRATERbJAL --
LEE!E-TERNAL --
LEE!(Together)
THE F.F.V.THE FIRST FAHILYIN THE SOVEREIGw COLONY OF VIRGINIAI
LEEAND HAY BY REFUSE lY1Y BEDIF I CAN'T DELIVER, AS I SAID,A RI:.SOLUTION -- Ol-J t
(Spoken)Spoken modest-Lee. God help us!
LEEHe will, Johnl He will!
2-13
II
LEEFULL BOSOMED! BENJY--EVERYONE A QUEENI ••• THEY ARE
(MUSIC IN, at tempo)
LEESl DAUNITJTHE LEES OF OLD VIRGINIA! YES, SIRI BY GODI
(Drawing his sword, HE parades around,followed by FRANKLIN and JOHN)
ALLIT'S HERE A LEE!THERE A LEE!
LEECOLlE ON, JOffi\],STEP LIVE-A-LEEI
ALLHERE A LEE!THERE A LEEIEVERYWHERE A -- A LEE!(liltc. )
(Marching, THEY exit, LEE waving hissword, FRANKLIN lumbering, JOHNmoving like an out-of-step puppet,looking up to Heaven for the answer)
2-16
3-17,
Scene 3
The CHAl·IBER.
Featured prominently, rear, is atally board -- under three mainheadings (I'YEA," ul.iAY" and"ABSTAIN") are thirteen slots;each with a shuttle containing thename of a single colony. Thisdevice, during a vote, is theprovince of, the Secretary of theCongress. '
Yes?
AT RISE: 1.'he Chamber is empty save for itsaging custodian, AJ.:'IURC;\'J UcNAIR,who is preparing the room for theday's session with the help of aLEATHER APRON, a working man.The wall calendar now reads:UJUNE 7. u Then, as HcNAIR setsout quill pens and fills theseveral inkwells from-a -large jar,Georgia's DR. HALL, 55,enters and looks around, finallyclearing his throat. ,McNAIR looksup ..
McNAIR
HALL1 1m Dr. Lyman Hall, new delegate from Georgia.
HcNAIR(Going back to work)
Ilm Andrew McNair, Congressional Custodian.(HE turns away)
If you'll be wantin' anything at all just holler outtlMcNair 1I' as you'll hear the others do anCi there won' t betoo long to wait.
• HALL(Looking around)
Where does the Georgia delegation belong?
McNAIROh, they mill about over in that corner -- near the twoCarolinas.
HALL(Checking his watch)
It's after ten -- I was told the Congress convenes at ten.
3-1d
HcNAIRThey'll be wanderin' in any time now, sir -- with Old Grape'n Guts leadin' the pack.
HALLOld who?
HOPKINS' VOICE (O.S.)McNair -- 11
Iv1cNAIR-- Grape 'n Guts.
HOPKINS, a thin, round-shouldered man of 70, wearing ablack suit, black Quaker hat andhis grey hair at shoulder length,enters)
Fetch me a mug 0 1 rwnl
McNAIRMr. Hopkins, you'll be pleased to meet Dr. Lyman Hall --
HOPKINSI don't need a doctor, darnnit --
l'·lcNAIR-- new delegate from Georgia --
HOPKINS-- why didn't you say so?
(To HALL)I'm Stephen Hopkins, old delegate from Rhode Island.McNair! mugs o' ruml
HALLI fear it's a early in the day
HOPKINSNonsense 1 It I,S a medicinal fact that rum gets a man'sheart started in the morning -- I'm surprised you didn'tknow it. And speaking as the oldest man in the congress...
McNAIRBen Franklin's older by almost a year
HOPKINSRuml!
(MONAIR scurries off)
3-19
HOPKINS (Continued)Tell me, Or. Hall -- where does Georgia stand on thequestion of Independence?
(EDWARD RUTLEDGE, a younq, handsome,dandified aristocrat of 26, hasentered)
RUTLEDGEWith South Carolina, of course.
HOPI{INS(Laughing)
Good morning, Neddy. Shake the hand of Dr. Lyman Hallfrom Georgia. Doctor -- this here is Edward Rutledge fromwhichever Carolina he says he says he'S from -- God knowsI can't keep 'em straight.
RUTLEDGl::A pleasure, Dr. Hall.
HALLYour servant, Mr. Rutledge.
HOPKINSYou've met the long and short of it now, doctor Neddy,here is only twenty-six -- he's the youngest of us
RUTLEDGEExcept for Ben Franklin
HOPKINSIvlcNair 11
(MCNAIR has returned and now standsat HOPKINS' elbow)
NcNAIRYour rum.
HOPKIi:QSWhere do y' go for it, man -- Jamaica?
(RUTLEDGE. and HALL \'lalk away)fI
RUTLEDGEWhere does Georgia stand on Independence at the presenttime, Dr. Hall?
HALLI am here without instructions, able to vote my own personalconvictions.
3-20 rRUTLEDGE
And they are ?
HALLPersonal.
RUTLEDGEDr. Hall -- the deep South speaks with one voice. It istraditional -- even more, it is historical.
(THEY regard one another for a moment.
Then the Delaware delegation enters:CAESAR RODNEY, 48, thin and pale,wears a green scarf tied around hisface, covering some infirmity; GEORGERBAD, 43, small and rqund, speakswith a high voice; and COL..i.,icKEAI:\j, 42, tall and florid, has abooming voice decorated with aScottish brogue)
Ah! Enter Delaware -- tria juncta in uno!
ivlCKEANSpeak plain, Rutledge -- yl know I can 1t foLlow none o' y'rdamn French I
RUTLEDGELatin, Colonel McKean -- a tribute to the eternal peace andharmony of the Delaware delegation.
1,IcKEANWhat're yl sayin', man? Y' know perfectly well neitherRodney nor I can stand this little wart!
(HE indicates READ)
RUTLEDGEGentlemen -- Gentlemen -- this is Dr. Lyman Hall of Groegia-- Caesar Rodney, George Read and Colonel Thomas McKeano
(HALL shakes hands with EACH in turnand THEY exchange greetings)
* RODNEYt4here do you stand on Independence, sir?
HALL(A look to RUTLEDGE)
With South Carolina, it seems.
RUTLEDGEI leave the doctor in your excellent company, gentlemen.
(Smiling, HE bows and walks away,joining another GROUP.
3-21
Slowly the Chamber has begun to fillwith CONGRESSMEN: LEWIS MORRIS andROBERT LIVINGSTON of New York; ROGER
of Connecticut, JOSEPH HEWESof North Carolina;- the portlyCliASE of Maryland; JOSIAH BARTLETT ofNew Hampshire; and OTHERS: and lastto enter, unnoticed, THOMAS JEFFERSONof Virginia, 33, six-three, withcopper-colored hair)
RODNEY(Drawing HALL aside)
Tell me, sir -- would you be a doctor of medicine ortheology?
Both, Mr. RodneyHALL
which one can be of service?
RODNEYBy all means the physician first! Then we shall see aboutthe other.
HALLI'll call at your convenience, sir.
(THEY are joined by two members ofthe Pennsylvania delegation -- JOHWDICKINSON, 44, a thin, hawkish man,not without elegance; and JAl:·iESWILSON, 33, a bespectacled, cautiouslittle sycophant)
DICKINSON(Good-naturedly)
I trust, Caesar, when you're through converting the poorfellow to Independency that you'll give the opposition afair crack at him.
You're too late, JohnLyman Hall of Georgia
An honor, sir.
Your servant.
(waiting)Ahem --
RODNEYonce I get 'em they're got. Dr.Mr. John Dickinson of Pennsylvania.
DICKINSON
HALL
WILSON
RODNEXAh, Judge wilson, forgive me but how can anyone see youif you insist on standing in Mr. Dickinson's shadow?
(To HALL)James Wilson, also of Pennsylvania.
WILSONSir.
HALLAn honor, sir.
(FRANKLIN enters, limping on a cane,one foot bandaged)
FRANKLINwill you get out of my way, please? Good morning, alII
HALL(Recognizing him)
Good Lord -- do you have the honor to be Dr. Franklin?
FRANKLINYes, I have that honor -- unfortunately the gout accompaniesthe honor.
HOPKINSBeen living too high again, eh, pappy?'
FRANKLINStephen, I only wish King George felt like my big toe --allover!
HOPKINSMcNair! I Fetch a pillo' -- and two more mugs o'rum!
(NOW JOHN enters the Chamber and looksaround, searching for someone.
NOTE: It is now evident that theand style of the various
costumes change gradually from colonyto colony -- from the fancy greensand golds of the Deep South tosomber blacks of New England)
JOHN(Crossing loudly down to FRANKLIN)
Well, Franklin? Where's that idiot Lee? Has he returnedyet? I don't see him.
how long I'll remainThat strutting popinjayhe's had time to bring
3-23
FRANKLINSoftly, John -- your voice is hurting my foot.
JOHNOne more day, Franklin -- that'ssilent and not a minute longerlwas so damned sure of himself --back a dozen proposals by now!
(DICKINSON turns to WILSON andaddresses him in a loud voice, forALL to hear)
DICKINSONTell me, James -- how do you explain the strange,monumental quietude that aengress has been treated to thesepast thirty days?
(EVERYONE, including JOHN, has turnedto listen)
Has the ill-wind of Indepehdence finally blown itself out?
WILSONIf you ask me
DICKINSONFor myself, I must confess that a month free from NewEngland noise is more therapeutic than a month in thecountry! Oon't you agree, James?
WILSONWell, I --
DICKINSON(Turning)
Mr. Adams -- pray look for your voice, sir -- it cannotbe far and God knows we heed the entertainment in thisCongress!
(LAUGHTER from his fellow CONSERVATIVES.EVERYONE turns to who is tremblingwith rage)
•Congratulations, John you've just made your greatestcontribution to Independence -- you kept your flap shqtl
JOHWOne more day ••• I
(JOHN HANCOCK, 40, takes his place atthe President's desk; HE is followed
3-24
by CHARLES THOMSON, 47, the pedanticSecretary to the Congress. HANCOCKpounds his GAVEL)
HANCOCKGentlemen -- the usual morning festivities concluded, Iwill now call the Congress to order --
(GAVEL)Mr. Thomson --
THOMSON(Rising and ringing a BELL)
The Second Continental Congress, meeting in the city ofPhiladelphia, is now in session, 7 June 1776, the 380thmeeting --
McNAIRSweet Jesus!
THOMSON-- The Honorable John Hancock of Massachusetts Bay,President.
(Rings the BELL and sits)
HANCOCKThank you, Mr. Thomson.
(HE swats a fly)Mr. McNair, the stores of rum and other drinking spiritsare hereby closed to the colony of Rhode Island for aperiod of three
McNAIRYes, sir.
John -- yl canlt do that -- !
Sit down, Hopkins you·va abused the privilege. TheChair takes this opportunity to welcome Dr. Lyman Hall ofGeorgia to this Congress and hopes he will make the best ofit. My God, it's hot! The Secretary will read the roll.
THOMSONAll members present with the following exceptions. Mr.Charles Cartol! of Maryland; Mr. Samuel Adams ofMassachusetts; Button Gwinnett of Georgia; Mr. GeorgeWythe and Richard Henry Lee of Virginia; and the entiredelegation of New Jersey. I
HANCOCK1 ' m concerned over the continued absence of one-thirteenthof this Congress. Where is New Jersey?
3-25
DICKINSONsomewhere between New York and Pennsylvania.
HANCOCKThank yo very much. Dr. Franklin, have you heard anything?Your son resides there.
FRANKLINson, sir? What son?
HANCOCK(Sorry HE brought it up)
The Royal Governor of New Jersey, sir.
FRAi.\IKLINAs that title might suggest, sir, we are not in touch atthe present time.
HANCOCKYes. Very well -- uh -- the weather report -- Mr. Jeffersonof Virginia --
(NO reaction; JEFFERSON is readinga book)
Mr. Jefferson!
(JEFFERSON jumps to his feet)
JEFFERSONPresent, sir!
HANCOCKMay we hear about the weather, as if it weren't speaking foritself.
JEFFERSON(Going to several gauges at the window)
Eighty-seven degrees of temperature -- thirty-point-aught-six inches of mercury, wind from the southwest for the restof the day -- and tonight --
(HE turns)tonight leaving for horne.
..On business?
Family business.
HAL\JCOCI{
JEFFERSO..\l
HOPKINSGive her a good one for me, young feller!
3-26
JEFFERSON(Smiling)
Yes, sir -- I will.
(A uniformed COURIER, dusty from hislong ride, enters and approachesTHOMSON, removing a communique fromhis pouch. HE tosses it onto theSECRETARY's desk and leaves, wearily)
THOMSON(Ringing his BELL)
From the Commander, Army of the United Colonies; in NewYork, dispatch number one thousand one hundred and thirty-seven --
McNAIRSweet Jesus!
THOMSON(Reading)
-- uTo the Honorable Congress, John Hancock, President.Dear Sir: It is with grave apprehension that I havelearned this day of the sailing, from Halifax, Nova Scotia,of a considerable force of British troops in the company offoreign mercenaries and under the command of General SirWilliam Howe. There can be no doubt that their destinationis New York for to take and hold this city and the HudsonValley beyond would serve to separate New England from theother colonies permitting both sections to be crushed inturn. Sadly, I see no way of stopping them at the presenttime as my army is absolutely falling apart, my militarychest is totally exhausted, my Commissary General hasstrained his credit to the last, my Quartermaster has nofood, no arms, no ammunition, and my troops are in a stateof near mutiny! I pray God some relief arrives before thearmada but fear it will not. Y'r ob'd1t --
(DRUM ROLL)
-- G. Washingt0;ll.1I
(During the brief silence that follows,shrugs and files the dispatch)
McKEANMr. President -- I
HANCOCKColonel McKean --
McKEANSurely we've managed to promote the gloomiest man on thiscontinent to the head of our troops. Those dispatches are
r
McKEAN (Continued):he most depressing accumulation of disaster, doom and3espair in the entire annals of military history! Andcurtherroore --
HANCOCK?lease, Colonel McKean
McKEANVhat?
HANCOCKct's too hot.
McKEAN)h. Yes. I suppose so.
3-27
HANCOCK;eneral Washington will continue wording his dispatches asle sees fit and 1 ' m sure we all pray that he finds happier:houghts to convey in the near
(Swats a fly).- future. Mr. Thomson -- are there any resolutions?
THOMSON)r. Josiah Bartlett of New Hampshire.
BARTLETT(Rising and reading)
IResolved: that for the duration of the present hostilities:he congress discourage every type of extravaganoe andiissipation, elaborate funerals and other expensiveliversions, especially all horse-racing --
(HE is shouted down by the entireCONGRESS. Then the door bursts openand LEE sweeps in)
LEEI'm back -- I'm back, Johnny -- 1
(HE lets out a Southern WAR WHOOP)
McKEANtiohard, we're pleased t' see y'!
FRANKLINfuat news, Dickie-boy -- what news?
JOHNIs it done?
LEEthings fi rst --
(Looking around)- where t s Torn -- ?
(Turning and seeing JEFFERSON)Your little bride wants to know.
JOHNfuat?
LEE'When' 5 he corning horne? If
JEFFERSON: leave tonight 1
JOHN(Grabbing LEE's shoulders)
Never mind that -- !!. it done?LEE
Done?(A pause)
certain
(CHEERS from THOSE FOR)
Mr. President -- I have returned from Virginia with thefollowin' resolution --
(Producing a paper and reading)"Resolved: that these united colonies are (and of a rightought to be) free and independent states, that they areabsolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and thatall political connection between them and the state OTGreat Britain is (and ought to be)totally dissolved!"
JOHNMr. President, I second the proposal!
HANCOCKThe resolution has been proposed and seconded. The Chairwill now entertain debate.
DICKINSONassuming weariness)
Mr. President, Pennsyl"ania moves, as always, that thequestion of Independence be postponed -- indefinitely.
WILSONI second the motion!
JOHNUHlml
HANCOCKJudge Wilson,' in your eagerness to be loved you seem tohave forgotten that Pennsylvania cannot second its ownmotion. "
READDelaware seconds.
McKEANYou would, y' little weasel!
HANCOCKThe motion to postpone has been moved and seconded. Mr.Thomson --
3-29
(THOMSON goes to the tally board.As each Colony votes HE announcesit and McNAIR, in turn, mechanicallyrecords it on the board.
HOPKINS, during this preparation,rises and leaves the Chamber)
THOMSONOn the motion to postpone indefinitely the resolution ofIndependency or proceed with the debate, all those in favorof debate say "Yea," all those for postponement say IlNay."
(Intoning)New Hampshire --
BARTLETTNew Hampshire favors debate and says Yea.
THOMSONNew Hampshire says Yea. Massachusetts
JOHNMassachusetts, having borne the brunt of the King'styranny
Shame! 1 Shame 11
Sit down, John!
-- Yes, I said tyrannytsays Yea!
Massachusetts says Yea.Wherels Rhode Island?
ALL (THOSE AGAINST)
(THOSE FOR)
JOHNMassachusetts now and for all time
THOMSONRhode Island -- Mr. Hopkins?
McNAIRRhode IslanCl is out visitin l the unecessary."
HANCOCKAfter what Islandls consumed I can't say rimsurprised. Weill come back to him, Mr. Thomson.
THOMSONRhode Island passes --
(LAUGHTER; THOMSON looks around,not understanding, then proceeds)
Connecticut --
3-30
SHERMAN(HE holds, as HE will throughout theentire play, a shallow bowl of coffee:HE is never without it)
While Connecticut has, Itil now, been against thisproposal, our legislature has instructed me that, in theevent it is introduced by any colony outside of NewEngland, Connecticut could not any longer withhold itssupport. Connecticut says Yea.
(FRANKLIN and JOHN exchange satisfiedlooks)
THOMSONConnecticut says Yea. New York
MORRISMr. Secretary, New York abstains -- courteously.
THOMSONNew York abstaihs --
MORRIScourteously.
THOMSON-- New Jersey --
HANCOCKAbsent, Mr. Secretary.
Oh , yes,New Jersey is absent.
THOMSONPennsylvania
DICKINSONPennsylvania, for the twenty-fourth time, says Nay.
THOMSONPennsylvania says Nay. Delaware
RODNEYDelaware, as ever for Independence, says Yea.
•THOMSON
Delawax:e says Yea. Mary-land --
CHASEMary-land would welcome Independence if it were given butis highly skeptical that it can be taken. Mary-land saysNay.
THOMSONMary-land says Nay. Virginia--
(Understanding LAUGHTER)
3-31
LEEVirginia, the First Colony, says Yea!
THOMSONVirginia says Yea. North Carolina
HEWESNorth Carolina respectfully yields to South Carolina.
THOMSONSouth Carolina --
RUTLEDGEMr. President -- although we in South Carolina have neverseriously considered the question of Independence, when agentleman proposes it, attention must be paid. However--we in the deep South, unlike our friends in New England,have no cause for impatience at the present time. If, atsome future date, it becomes the wish of all our sistercolonies to effect a separation we will not stand in theway. But for the time bein l
-- South Carolina will waitand watch. The vote is Nay.
THOMSONSouth Carolina says Nay.
HEWES(Jumping up)
North Carolina --
THOMSON-- says Nay -- yes, Mr. Hewes, I know. Georgia--
(HALL rises, looks around, but saysnothing, obviously in great uncertainty)
Georgia
HALLMr. Secretary --
(His eyes meet RUTLEDGEIs, thenquickly look away)
Georgia seems.to be split right down the middle on thisissue -- the People are against it -- and rim for it.
irim afraid rim not yet certain whether representing thePeople means relying on their judgement or on my own. Soin all fairness, until I can figure it out, I'd better leana little toward their side. Georgia says Nay.
L _
3-32
THOMSONGeorgia says Nay.
(Checks the board)Rhode Island --
(Calling off)-- second call Rhode Island --
HOPKINS' VOICE (O.S.)1 1 m cornin! -- I'm cornin l
-- 1(Enterin-g-)--
Hold y1r damn horses!
THOMSONWelre waiting on you, Mr. Hopkins.
HOPKINSIt won l t kill you. You1d think 'the Congress would have itsown pisser! All right, where does she stand?
THOMSONFive for debate, five for postponement, one abstention andone absence.
HOPKINSSo it's up to me, is it? Well, 1 1 11 tell y' -- in all myyears I never heard, seen nor smelled an issue that was 50dangerous that it couldn't be talked about. Hell yes, I'mfor debatin l anything -- Rhode Island says Yea.
(CHEERS from THOSE FOR, includinganother WAR WHOOP from LEE, as THEYcrowd around HOPKINS)
HANCOCKMcNair -- get Mr. Hopkins a rum!
MCNAIRBut you said --
HANCOCKGet him the whole damn barrel if he wants!
Yes, sir! •McNAIR
HANCOCKThe Chair now declares this Congress a tornrnittee-of-the-whole for the purpose of debating Virginia's resolution,ofIndependence. Mr. Dickinson -- '
DICKINSONWell, now. You've got your way at last, Mr. Adams -- thematter may now be discuSsed. I confess I'm almost relieved-- there's a question I've been fairly itching to ask you:Why?
3-33
JOHNWhy what, Mr. Dickinson?
DICKINSONWhy Independence, Mr. Adams?
JOHNFor the obvious reason that our continued association withGreat Britain has grown intolerable.
DICKINSONTo whom, Mr. Adams? To you? Then I suggest you sever yourties immediately. But please be kind enough to leave therest of us where we are. Personally, I have no objectionsat all to being part of the greatest empire on Earth, toenjoying its protection and sharing its benefits --
JOHNBenefits? What benefits? Crippling taxes? Cruelrepressions? Abolished rights?
DICKINSONIs that all England means to you, sir? Is that all theaffection and pride you can muster for the nation that boreyou -- for the noblest, most civilized nation on the faceof this planet? Would you have us forsake Hastings andMagna Carta, Stronqbow and Lionhearted, Drake andMarlborough, Tudors, Stuarts and Plantaganets? For what,sir? Tell me for what? For you?
(HE smiles, then turns)Some men are patriots -- like General Washington -- andsome are anarchists -- like Mr. Paine -- some, even, areinternationalists -- like Dr. Franklin. But you, sir --you are merely an -- a-gi-ta-tor -- disturbing the peace,creating disorder, endangering the public welfare -- andfor what? Your petty little personal complaints -- yourtaxes are too high. Well, sir -- so are mine. come, come,Mr. Adams -- if you have 'grievances -- and rim sure youhave -- our present system must provide a gentler means ofredressing them short of --
(Suddenly his manner changes as HEbrings his fist down on the deskwith a CRASH)
revolution!!(Whee\ing to the CONGRESS)
Thatls what he wants -- nothing short of it will satisfyhim! Violence! Rebellion! Treason!! Now, Mr. Adams --are these the acts of Englishmen? I
JOHNNot Englishmen, Dickinson -- Americans!
DICKINSON(Again, POUNDING the desk)
No, sir! Englishmen!!
FRANKI.lIN(HE's been asleep, his chin on hischest; now an eye opens)
Please, Mr. Dickinson -- but must you start banging? Howis a man to sleep?
(LAUGHTER)
DICKINSONForgive me, Dr. Franklin, but must you start speaking? Howis a man to stay awake?
(LAUGHTER)
Wetll promise to be quiet, sir -- rim sure everyone prefersthat you remain asleep.
FRANKLINIf I'm to hear myself called an Englishman, sir, then Iassure you I'd prefer I'd remained asleep.
DICKINSONWhat's so terrible about being called an Englishman? TheEnglish don't seem to mind.
FRANKLINNor would I were I given the full rights of an Englishman.But to call me one without those rights is like calling anox a bull -- he's thankful for the honor but held muchrather have restored what 1 s rightfully his.•
(LAUGHTER, FRANKLIN laughing thelongest)
DICKINSON(Finally)
When did you first notice they were missing, sir?
• (LAUGHTER)
Fortunately, Dr. Franklin, the People of these Coloniesmaintain a higher regard for their Mother country.
iFRANKLIN
Higher, certainly, than she feels for them. Never was sucha valuable possession so stupidly and recklessly managedthan this entire continent by the British Crown. Ourindustry discouraged, our resources pillaged -- and worstof all, our very character stifled. Welre spawned a new
FRANKLIN (Continued) 3-35race here -- rougher, simpler, more violent, more enter-'prisin9 and less refined -- we're a new nationality,Mr. Dickinson -- we require a new nation.
DICKINSONThat may be your opinion, Dr. Franklin, but as I said, thepeople feel quite differently
JOHNWhat do you know about the People, Dickinson? You-don-tspeak for the People -- you represent only yourself. Andthat precious "Status quo" you keep imploring the people topreserve for their good is nothing more than the eternalpreservation of your own property!
DICKINSONMr. Adams, you have an annoying talent for making suchdelightful words as "property" sound quite distasteful. Inheaven's name, what's wrong with property? Perhaps you-veforgotten that many of us first came to these shores inorder to secure rights to property -- and that we hold
rights no less dear than the rights you speak of.
JOHNSo safe, so fat, so comfortable in Pennsylvania --
DICKINSONAnd what is this Independence of yours except the private
.f' grievance of Massachusetts? Why is it always Boston thatbreaks the King's peace? (To the Congress)
, My dear Congress -- you must not adopt this evil measure --it is the work of the devil. Leave it where it belongs --in New England.
SHERMANBrother Dickinson, New England has been fighting the devilfor more than a hundred years.
DICKINSONAnd as of now, "Brother" Sherman, the devil has been winning
down! . (Indicating JOHN) Why at this verymoment he is sitting here in this Congressl Don't himdeceive you -- proposal is entirely his doing!
LEEminute •••
DICKINSONbear Virginia's name but it reeks of Adams, Adams
nd more Adamsi Look at him -- ready to lead thisdown the fiery path of total destruction!
JOHNad God! Why can't you acknowledge what already exists?,t has been more than a year since Concord and Lexington --
man, we're at war right now!
DICKINSONmay be at war -- you -- Boston and John Adams but
you will never speak for Pennsylvania!
READNor for Delaware!
RODNEYMr. Read -- you represent only one-third of Delaware!
READThe sensible third, Mr. Rodney!
McKEANSit down r yl little roach, or 1 111 knock yl down!
HANCOCKSit down, all three of you! McNairl! Do something aboutthese damned fliesl
HOPKINSMcNa1r!! Fetch me a rum!
HANCOCKGet the f11es first!
HOPKINSA rum!
McNAIRlive only got two hands
HANCOCK(Mopping his brow)
Christ r itls hotl Please do go on, gentlemen -- you1remaking the only breeze in philadelphia.
RUTLEDGEMr. Adams, perhaps you could clear something up forafter we have achieved Independence -- who do you proposewould govern in South Carolina?
• JOHNThe People, of course.
RlJ'I'LEDGEWhich people, sir? The people of South Carolina? Or thepeople of Massachusetts?
HOPKINSWhy don't you admit it r Neddy? You're against Independencenow and you always will be.
3-37
RUTLEDGEYou refuse to understand us, gentlemen! We desireIndependence, yes -- for South Carolina. That is ourcountry. And as such we donlt wish it to belong to anyone-- not to England -- and not to you.
JOHNWe intend to be one nation, Rutledge.
RUTLEDGEA nation of sovereign states, Mr. Adams -- united for oUrmutual protection, but separate for our individual pursuits.That is what we have understood it to be -- and that is whatwe will support -- as soon as everyone supports it.
WILSONThere you are, Mr. Adams -- you must see that we need timeto make certain who we are and where we stand in regard toone another -- for if we do not determine the nature of thebeast before we set it free it will end by consuming us all.
JOHNFor once in your life, Wilson -- take a chance. I say thetime is now! It may never come again!
HEWESYour clock is fast, Mr. Adams -- I say we're not yet ripefor Independence.
HOPKINSNot ripe? Hell, we're for want of itl
CHASEGentlemen, please what in God's is the infernalhurry? Why must this question be settled now?
RODNEYWhat's wrong with now, Mr. Chase?
CHASEGeneral Washington is in the field. If he's defeated, as itnow appears, weill be inviting the hangman. But if, by somemiracle, he shtuld actually win can then declare anythingwe damn please!
HEWESThe sentiments of North Carolina precisely.
JOHNHas it occurred to either of you that an army needs some-thing to fight for in order to win? -- a cause, a purpose,a flag of its own?! --
3-38
CHASEMr. Adams -- how can a nation of only two million soulsstand up to an empire of ten million? Think of it tenmillion! How do we compensate for that shortage?! ---
FRANKLINIt's simple, Mr. Chase -- increase and multiply!
CHASEHowls that?
JOHNWe will more than compensate -- with spiritl I tell youtherels a spirit out there with the People thatls sadlylacking in this Congress!
DICKINSONYes, of course -- now it's spirit! Why didn't I think ofthat? No army, no navy, no arms, no ammunition, notreasury, no friends -- but bless our soul -- spiritl
(Turning)Mr. Lee -- Mr. Hopkins -- Mr. Rodney -- Colonel McKeanDr. Franklin -- why have you joined this incendiary littleman? This Boston radical -- this a-gi-ta-tor -- thisdemagogue -- this madman!
JOHNAre you calling me a madman, you
FRANKLINEasy, John!
you -- you -- fribble!!
JOHNYou and your Pennsylvania proprietors -- you cool,considerate men1 You keep to the rear of every issue soif we should go under you'll still remain afloat!
DICKINSONAre you calling me a coward?
JOHNYes 1 Cowa;d 1 !
DICKINSONMadman! I
JOHNLandlord!!
DICKINSONLawyer! !
3-39
HOPKINSWhack him, John!
FRANKLINHO, Spartacus!
CONGRESSstopl Go! For Shame! At last! (EtC.)
(RODNEY' now steps forward, betweenthem, and pushes them apart)
RODNEYstop itl stop it!! This is the Congressl stop it, I say!The enemy is out there!
DICKINSONNo, Mr. Rodney -- the enemy is here!
RODNEY'No -- no -- I say he's out there -- England -- England --closing in -- cutting off our air -- there's no time --no air
Thomas(HE is stricken)!(HE collapses)
McKEANCaesar -- Caesar -- 11
(HE looks around as the CONGRESSfalls silent and moves in)
Doctor Hall -- ?
HALL(Kneeling beside RODNEY and lookingunder the green scarf: his expressionreflects what HE finds)
Colonel McKean --
• McKEANAye -- it's the cancer.
HALLHe should go home.
RODNEY(Disgusted with himself)
Yes -- a man should die in his own bed. John--
3-40
JOHNI'm here# Caesar --
RODNEYI leave you a divided Delaware -- forgive me.
McKEAN1 1 11 take y' home, Caesar.
(HE lifts RODNEY and turns to JOHN)1 1 11 be back within the week.
RUTLEDGEMr. President -- South Carolina calls the question.
HANCOCK(Distracted)
Whatls that, Mr. Rutledge?
RUTLEOOE(HE walks to the ta lly board)
I said, Mr. president, South Carolina desires to end thedebate and --
(HE moves the Delaware marker fromthe "Yea I' to the UNay" column)
-- call the question of Independence.
READ(Glowing)
Delaware seconds!
(Again, BEDLAM, as EVERYONE under-stands what has happened)
CONGRESSNo! Yes! You can't do that! Call the question! (Etc.)
HANCOCK(HE GAVELS for order)
Gentlemen, _pleasel The question has been called andseconded. Mr. Secretary, you will record the vote.
JOHNFranklin -- do something -- think!
FRANKLINI am thinking! Nothingls coming!
THOMSON 3-41l those in favor of the resolution on Independence as)posed by the Colony of Virginia signify by saying
FRANKLIN. Secretary, would you read the resolution again ?
CONSERVATIVES'11 !
FRANKLINve forgotten it.
RUTLEDGE, come now I
(Annoyed, THOMSON looks to HANCOCK,who nods: HE sighs)
THOMSON!solved: That these united Colonies are (and of a right;rht to be) free and independent --"
(The REV. JOHN WITHERSPOON, a leanand ascetic clergyman of 54, enters)
WITHERSPOONbeg your pardon -- I'm the Reverend John witherspoondelegate from New Jersey -- ?
(As EVERYONE moves in, expectantly:HE draws back, then seeks out the onlyfamiliar face) .
• Franklin -- I regret I must be the bearer of unhappydings but your son, the Royal Governor of New Jersey, isken prisoner and has been moved under guard to the Colonyconnecticut for safe-keeping.
FRANKLINhe unharmed, sir?
WITHERSPOONen last I heard, he was, yes, sir.
FRANKLINen why the long face? I hear Connecticut is an excellentcation. Tell me, why'd they arrest the little bastard?
. WITHERS POONr -- uh -- New Jersey legislature has recalled the oldlegation to this Congress and has sent a new one •
•JOHN
ickly, man -- where do y' stand on Independence?I
WITHERSPOONhaven't I made that clear?
JOHN
WITHERSPOON, I s'pose I haven't. But that was the reason for the change --'ve been instructed to vote for Independence.
3-42
JOHN (Continued)(HE goes to the tally board)
Massachusetts is now ready for the vote on Independence(HE records New Jersey under the"Yea" column)
-- and reminds the Chair of its privilege to decide allvotes that are deadlocked!
HANCOCKI won't forget, Mr. Adams. The Chair would like to welcomethe Reverend witherspoon and appoint him CongressionalChaplain if he will accept the post --
WITHERSPOONWith much pleasure, sir.
HANCOCKVery well. Mr. Thomson, you may now --
(HE swats a fly)-- proceed with the vote on Independence.
THOMSONAll in favor of the resolution on Independence as proposedby the Colony of Virginia signify by saying --
DICKINSON(Jumping up)
Mr. President -- Pennsylvania moves that any vote in favorof Independence must be unanimous!
JOHNWhat?!
WILSONI second the motion!
HANCOCK(Admonishing)
Judge Wilson --
WILSON(Chagrined)
Oh my God.. •
READDelaware seconds, Mr. President.
JOHNNo vote's ever had to be unanimous, Dickinson, and you knowitl
DICK:i:NSONYes, but this one must be.
3-43
JOHNon what grounds?
DICKINSONThat no colony be torn from its mother country without itsown consent.
RUTLEDGEHear, hearl
JOHNBut itlll never be unanimous, damnitl
DICKINSONIf you say so, Mr. Adams.
THOMSONIt has been moved and seconded that the vote on Independencemust be unanimous in order to carry. All those in favorsignify by saying "Yea II --
(DICKINSON, CHASE, READ, RUTLEDGE,HEWES and HALL say nYea")
six colonies say "Yea. 1I All those opposed signify by saying"Nay" --
(JOHN, BARTLETT, HOPKINS, SHERMAN,LEE and WITHERSPOON say "Nay")
Six colonies say "Nay. II
MORRISMr. Secretary -- New York abstains - courteously.
HANCOCKMr. Morris -- why does New York constantly abstain? Whydoesn't New York simply stay in New York? Very well -- thevote is tied.
(HE covers his eyes for a moment)The principles of tndependence have no greater advocate inCongress than its President -- and that's the reason I mustjoin those who vote for unanimity... --
JOHN(As the CONGRESS reacts, stunned,JOHN jumps up, horrified) I
Good God! What're y'doing, John? You've sunk us!
HANCOCKHear me out. Don't you see that any colony who opposesIndependence will be forced to fight on the side of England-- that we'll be setting brother against brother thatour new nation will carry as its emblem the mark of Cain?
HANCOCK (Continued)I can see no other way -- either we walk together ortogether we must stay where we are.
(JOHN yells AAHHHI and marches D.R.)Very well. Proceed, Mr. Thomson
THOMSONA unanimous vote being necessary to carry, if any be Opposedto the resolution on Independence as proposed by the colonyof virginia, signify by saying
JOHNPresident!!
THOMSONFor heaven's sake, let me get through it oncel
JOHNMr. President, I move for a postponement!
DICKINSONPostponement?! Ha! I wish you the same luck had with it!
FRANKLINMr. Adams is right -- we need a postponement!
DICKINSONOn what grounds?
FRANKLINOn what grounds?
Mr. Presidentwithout -- uhdefining it?
JOHNhow can this Congress vote on Independencea written declaration of some sort
HANCOCKWhat sort of declaration?
JOHNWell -- you know -- uh -- listing all the reasons for theseparation and -- uh our goals and aims and so on andso forth, et et cetera --
FRANKLINDitto, Di tt.,.
JOHNDittoS Ditto!
HANCOCKWe know those, don't we?
JOHNWell, good God, yes, know them -- but what about the restof the world? Certainly we require the aid of a powerful
ri
3-45
JOHN (Continued)nation like France or Spain -- and such a declaration wouldbe consistent with European delicacy.
CHASEcome, now, Mr. Adams -- you'll have to do better than that!Answer straight -- what would be its purpose?
(A pause: for once JOHN is at a lossfor words)
JOHNYes, well --
JEFFERSON(Rising)
To place before mankind the common sense of the sUbjectin terms so plain and firm as to command their assent.
(Winking at JOHN, HE sits. A momentof surprise; then DICKINSON laughs)
DICKINSONMr. Jefferson -- are you seriously suggesting that wepublish a paper declaring to all the world that an illegalrebellion is, in reality, a legal one?
FRANKLINWhy, Mr. Dickinson, 1 1m surprised at you! You should knowthat rebellion is always legal in the first person -- suchas IIour" rebellion. It is only in the third person --I'their ll rebellion -- that it is !!!egal.
(LAUGHTER)
Mr. President, I second the motion to postpone the vote onIndependence for a period of time sufficient for the writingof a declaration.
HANCOCKIt has been moved and seconded. Mr. Secretary --
THOMSONAll those in favor of the motion to postpone signify bysaying IIYea l
• --.
(ADAMS, BARTLETT, HOPKINS, SHERMAN,WITHERSPOON and LEE say "Yea U
)
Six colonies say "Yea6 lt Against -- ?
(DICKINSON, CHASE, READ, RUTLEDGE,HEWES and HALL say "Nay n)
Six colonies say "Nay."
MORRISMr. Secretary -- New York abstains -- courteously.
HANCOCKMr. Morris! What in hell goes on in New York?!
MORRISI'm sorry, Mr. President, but the simple fact is that ourlegislature has never sent us explicit insturctions onanything.
HANCOCKNever? That's impossible!
MORRISHave you ever been present at a meeting of the New Yorklegislature? They speak very fast and very loud and nobodypays any attention to anybody else with the result thatnothing ever gets done. I beg the Congress' pardon.
HANCOCKMy sympathies, Mr. Morris. The vote again being tied, theChair decides in favor of the postponement.
(His GAVEL. ADAMS applauds. THOMSON goesto his desk, sits and writes)
So ruled. A committee will now be to manage thedeclaration, said document to be written, debated andapproved by the beginning of July, three weeks hence, atwhich time Virginia's resolution on Independence willfinally be voted. Is that clear?
(Meeting general agreement)Very well. will the following gentlemen serve on theDeclaration Committee: Dr. Franklin, Mr. John Adams, Mr.Sherman, Mr. Livingston and, of course, Mr. Lee.
LEEExcuse me, but I must be returnin' to the sovereign countryof Virginia as have been asked to serve as Governor.Therefore I must decline -- respectful-Leel
• HANCOCKVery well, Mr. Lee -- you're excused.leave it a four-man committee--
I suppose we could
JOHNJust a moment Mr. President -- this business needs a virginiTherefore, I propose a replacement -- Mr. Thomas Jefferson!
JEFFERSONNo, Mr. Adams -- no --
3-47HANCOCK
Very well, Mr. Adams -- Mr. Jefferson will serve.
JEFFERSONI'm going horne, too -- to my wife
JOHNMove to adjourn!
JEFFERSONNO, wait -- 1
FRANKLINSecond! !
JEFFERSONItls been six months since I've seen her -- 1
HANCOCKMoved and seconded -- any objections ?
JEFFERSONYes!! have objections! Lots of objectionsl
HANCOCK(His GAVEL)
So ruled, Congress stands
(EVERYONE rises and goes as JOHN,FRANKLIN, SHERMAN and LIVINGSTONmove downstage, with JEFFERSONfollowing, still protesting.Music begins)
JOHN(Ignoring him)
All right, gentlemen I Letts get on with it. Which of usis going to write our Declaration on Independence?
FRANKLIN(5 ing:)
MR. ADAMS, I SAY YOU SHOULD WRITE ITTO YOUR LEGAL MIND AND BRILLIANCE WE DEljER •••
JOHNIS THAT SO!WELL, IF I'M THE ONE TO DO ITTHEY'LL RUN THEIR QUILL PENS THROUGH ITI'M OBNOXIOUS AND DISLIKED, YOU KNOW THAT, SIRI
FRANKLIN(Spoken)
Yes, I know.
JOHNTHEN, I SAY YOU SHOULD WRITE IT, YES, YOU!
FRANKLIN('Spoken)
Hell, no!
JOHNYES, YOU, DOCTOR FRANKLIN, YOU!
FRANKLINBUT -- !
JOHNYOU!
FRANKLINBUT -- I
JOHNYOU!
FRANKLINMR. ADAMSlBUT -- MR. ADAMS 1THE THINGS I WRITEARE ONLY LIGHT EXTEMPORANEAI WON'T PUT POLITICS ON PAPERIT I S A MANIA •••SO, I REFUSE TO USE THE PEN ••• IN PENNSYLVANIA!
(A GLEE CLUB is formed by SHERMAN,LIVINGSTON and FRANKLIN)
GLEE CLUBPENNSYLVANIA ••• AHPENNSYLVANIA ••• AHREFUSETO tPSE ••• THE PEN!
(JOHN begins to pace, thinking)
JOliN iMR. SHERMAN, I SAY YOU SHOULD WRITE ITYOU ARE NEVER "CONTROVERSIAL," AS IT WERE.
SHERMAN(Spoken)
That is true --
3-49
JOHNWHEREAS, IF I'M THE ONE TO DO ITTHEY'LL RUN THEIR QUILL PENS THROUGH IT,1 1M OBNOXIOUS AND DISLIKED, YOU KNOW THAT, SIR .••
SHERMAN(Spoken)
Yes, I do.
JOHNTHEN, YOU SHOULD WRITE IT, ROGER, YOU •••
SHERMAN(Spoken)
Good heavens, no!,.
JOHNYES ••• YOU, MR. SHERMAN, YOUl
SHERMANBUT -- 1
JOHNYOU I
SHERMANBUT -- 1
JOHNYOU!
SHERMANMR. ADAMS!BUT -- MR. ADAMS!I CANNOT WRITE WITH ANY STYLEOR PROPER ETIQUETTEI DON'T KNOW A PREPOSITIONFROM A PREDICAlrE •.•I AM JUST A SIMPLE COBBLERFROM CONNECTICQTl
GLEE CLUB••• !
CONNECTICUT ••• IA SIMPLE COBBLER ••• HE!
(JOHN resumes his pacing)
JOHNMR. LIVINGSTON, (MAYBE YOU SHOULD WRITE IT)YOU HAVE MANY' FRIENDS, AND YOU'RE A, DIPLOMAT.
3-50
FRANKLIN(Spoken)
Oh, that word!
JOHNWHEREAS, IF I'M THE ONE TO DO ITTHEY'LL RUN THEIR QUILL PENS THROUGH IT
GLEE CLUBHE'S OBNOXIOUS AND DISLIKED ••• DID YOU KNOW THAT?
LIVINGSTON(Spoken)
I hadn't heard --
JOHNTHEN, I SAY, YOU SHOULD WRITE IT, ROBERTI ••• YES, YOU!
LIVINGSTON(Spoken)
Not me, Johnny --
JOHNYESl YOU, ROBERT LIVINGSTON YOU I
LIVINGSTONBUT --
JOHNYOU!
LIVINGSTONBUT -- !
,.TOHNYOU I
LIVINGSTONMR. ADAMS! --BUT' -- MR. ADAMS1I'VE BEEN PRESENTED WITH A NEW SONBY THE NOBLE STORK' •••SO, I-AM HOME TO CELEBRATEAND POP A CORKWITH ALL THE LIVINGSTONS TOGETHER'BACK IN OLD NEW YORKl
NEW YORK!NEW YORKlLIVINGSTON'SGOING TO POP
GLEE CLUB
A CORK!
3-51
(Slowly, ALL eyes turn to JEFFERSON)
JEFFERSONMR. ADAMS!LEAVE ME ALONE
(The GLEE CLUB sings a liLA-LA" THEME,under)
JOHN(Spoken; firmly)
Mr. Jefferson --
Mr. Adams, I beg youlmonths!
JEFFERSONI've not seen my wife these six
JOHN
I
(Quoting)" ••• and we solemnly declare we will preserve our liberties,being with one mind resolved to die free men -- rather thanto live slaves!"
(The GLEE CLUB stops to listen)
Thomas Jefferson, on the tlNecessity of Taking Up Arms,"17751 Magnificent! You write ten times better than anyman in the Congress -- including me! For a man of onlythirty-three years you possess a happy talent forcomposition and a remarkable felicity of expression. Now!Will you be a patriot? Or a lover?!
JEFFERSONA lover!
JOHNNo!
JEFFERSONBUT I BURN I MISTER "A II !
JOHNSO DO I, KiSTER "Jill
(Everything stops)
JEFFERSON(Spoken)
-- 1!
SHERMANYou do?
FRANKLINJohn!
LIVINGSTONWho'dla thought it?
JOHNMR. JEFFERSONDEAR MR. JEFFERSONI'M ONLY FORTY-ONE,I STILL HAVE MY VIRILITYlAND! CAN ROMP THROUGH CUPID'S GROVEWITH GREAT AGILITYlBUT LIFE IS MORE THANSEXUAL COMBUSTIBILITY!
GLEE CLUBBUST-A-BILITYIBUST-A-BILITYICOM-BUST-A-BIL-I
JOHN(Spoken)
Quieti(Sings)
NOW, YOU'LL WRITE IT, MISTER lrJ"!
JEFFERSON(Six-feet-four)
WHO WILL MAKE ME, MISTER ItA"?!
JOHN(Five-feet-eight)
I !
JEFFERSONYOU 11
JOHNYES
JEFFERSONHm'1 1 t.It ..
JOHN(Spoken)
By ••• by physical force if necessary!1 Itls your duty --your duty, damnitl1
JEFFERSONMR. ADAMS!DAMN YOU, MR. ADAMS!YOU'RE OBNOXIOUS AND DISLIKED,THAT CANNOT BE DENIED
JEFFERSON(As this is agreed to by ALL)
ONCE AGAIN YOU STAND BETWEEN MEAND MY LOVELY BRIDE!
GLEE CLUBLOVELY BRIDE •••
JEFFERSONOH, MR. ADAMS, YOU ARE DRIVING ME ••. TOHOMICIDE! !
GLEE CLUBHOMICIDEHOMICIDE
JOHN(Spoken)
Quiet! 1
3-53
(HE is furious)The choice is yours, Mr. Jefferson!
(HE thrusts a large quill penJEFFERSON's hand; evenly:)
Do -- as -- you -- like -- with -- it.
GLEE CLUB(G leefully)
WE MAY SEE MURDER YETI
into
(JOHN goes, followed by the OTHERS.
'JEFFERSON, alone, studies the penfor a moment -- then turns and headsfor his lodgings, still regardingthe pen as HE goes)
•
Scene 4
JEFFERSON'S ROOM -- above HighStreet. It is spare and unaffectlike the man, with a desk, a cup-board, a chair, a couch, and amusic stand; a violin sits on thedesk.
JEFFERSON mounts the stpes andenters his HE takesanother look at the pen andit onto the desk angrily.
JEFFERSONDamn the man!
(HE removes his coat; then HE seesthe pen, stops, goes to the desk and,with one foot on the chair, leansover and writes a few words.Suddenly HE crumples the page andthrows it on the floor. HE writessome more; but again HE crumples thepaper and throws it on the floor)
God damn the rnanl(Now HE starts crumpling more sheetsof paper, one quickly after the other,and throws them allover in a frenzy.Then, exhausted, HE sits back, picksup his violin to play.
Meanwhile, JOHN and FRANKLIN haveentered below and now climb the steps.After a perfunctory KNOCK by JOHN,
90 in. FRANKLIN heads for thecouch and stretches out, closing hiseyes)
JOHNJefferson -- are y1finished, man?
• (There is no answer)
You've had a whole week -- is it Can I see it?
(JEFFERSON points to all of the crumpledpaper on the floor. JOHN picks one atrandom and, flattening it out, reads it)
IIThere comes a time in the lives of men when it becomesnecessary to advance from 'that subordination in which theyhave hitherto remained -- II -- this is terrible.
4-55
JOHN (Continued)(Looking up)
Where's the rest of it?
(Again JEFFERSON points to the floor)
Do you mean to say it's finished?
NO, sirJEFFERSON
I mean to say it's not begun.
Good God!a weeki
JdaNA whole week! The entire Earth was created in
JEFFERSONsome day you must tell me how you did it.
Disgusting!famous lover
JOHNLook at him, Franklin -- Virginia1s most
JEFFERSON
JOHN
who is she?
B wife --(HE studies them)
I hope.
It'll come outFranklin --
(But JEFFERSON and are suddenlyobltvious to but each otheras THEY meet and embrace. THEY kiss-- and kiss -- and will continuekissing throughout the remainder}ofthe scene)
(Outside, a cloaked WOMAN appears.SHE stops, looks around, then seesthe door and enters. It is MARTHA,JEFFERSON's 'wife, a lovely girl of 27)
asleep.JEFFERSON
Virginia
JOHNCheer up, Jefferson get out of the dumps.right, I promise you. Now get back to work.tell him to get to work.
FRANKLIN(HE sits bolt upright on the couch)
'View-halloo, and whose-little-girl are you?!
4"'5
FRANKLIN(His eyes never leaving them)
What makes y'think so?
JOHNBecause I sent for her.
FRANKLINY'what?l
JOHNIt simply occurred to me that the sooner his problem wassolved, the sooner our problem was solved.
FRANKLINGood thinking, John -- good thinking_
JOHN(Stepping forward)
Madame -- may I present myself. John Adams.
(No reaction)
Adams -- John Adams!
(Nothing)
And Dr. Franklin --
(Nothing)
Inventor of the
(No luck)
Jefferson -- would you kindly present me to your wife?!
(No reaction)
She is your.wife, isn't she?
FRANKLINOf she is -- look how they fit!
(Starting for the door)Come along, John -- come along --
JOHN i
Come alo11g where? There's work to be done!
FRANKLIN(A look back over his shoulder)
Heh! Qbviously!!
JOHN(Pacing around in disbelief)
Good God! Y'mean they --? They're going to -- ?(HE stops)
In the middle of the afternoon?
FRANKLINi (Flat, as if to a child)f Nbt everybody·s from Boston, John.'J\,
JOHN(Still can't believe it)
FRANKLIN(Anxious to leave he steps U.L.)
good night, John.
JOHN(Following)
y'eaten, Franklin?
FRANKLINyet, but --
JOHN,hear the turkey's fresh at the Bunch 0' Grapes --
FRANKLINI have a rendezvous, John. lid ask you along but
makes her nervous.
(FRANKLIN hastily exits U.L.
It has grown dark. From inside JEFFERSON'Sroom, we hear a violin sweetly playingthe first. strains of "He Plays The Violin".ADAMS turns R. to the lighted window.The light goes out.)
•
4-57
4-58JOHN (Continued)
(Turning out)Incredible.
(MUSIC begins
Stepping D.C.) .Abigail--
(ABIGAIL appears D.R., as before)
I'm very lonely, Abigail.
ABIGAILAre you, John? Then as long as you were sending forwhy didnlt you send for your own?
JOHNDon't be unreasonaple, Abigail •... ·P.:-·
Now 1 1m unreasonableABIGAILyou must add that to your list.
List?
JOHN(NO earthty. idea what she's talking about)
•
ABIGAILThe catalogue of my faults you included in your last letter.
JOHNThey were fondly intended, madame!
(HE smiles, figuring he's done with this mysterious nlis
ABIGAILThat I play at cards badly?
JOHNA compliment !
ABIGAILThat my posture is crooked?
JOHNAn endearment!
ABIGAILThat I read, write and think:too much?
JOHNAn irony!
4-59
ABIGAILThat I am pigeon-toed?
JOHNAh, well, there you have me, Abby -- 1 ' m afraid you arepigeon-toed.
(Smiling)tJ come to Philadelphia, Abigail -- please come.
ABIGAILThank you, John -- I do want to. But you know it's notpossible now. The children have the measles.
JOHNYes, so you wrote -- Tom and little Abby.
ABIGAIL,Only now it's Quincy and Charles. And it appears the farm,here in Braintree is failing, John -- the chickens and geesehave all died and the apples never survived the late frost.'HOW do you s' pose she managed to qet away?
JOHN(With a glance to the shutteredwindow)
'he winters are softer in Virginia.
ABIGAILtheir women, Jonn?
JOHNfor Virginians, madame, but pale, puny things beside
w England girlsl
ABIGAIL(Pleased)
I thank you for that.
JOHN(A pause) .it with you, Abigail?
• ABIGAILwell, John -- not at all well.
(SHE sings)I LIVE LIKE A NUN IN A CLOISTERSOLITARY, CELEBATE, I HATE IT •.•(AND YOU, JOHN?)
JOHNHMII LIVE LIKE A MONK IN AN ABBEYDITTO, DITTO, I HATE IT.
ABIGAILWRITE TO ME WITH SENTIMENTAL EFFUSIONLET ME REVEL IN ROMANTIC ILLUSION
JOHNDO Y' STILL SMELL OF VANILLA AND SPRING AIR?AND IS MY FAV'RITE LOVER'S PILLO' STILL FIPM AND FAIR
ABIGAILWHAT WAS THERE, JOHN!STILL IS THERE, JOHN!
COME SOON AS YOU CAN TO MY CLOISTERI'VE FORGOTTEN THE FEEL OF YOUR HAND
JOHNSOON, MADAME, WE SHALL WALK IN CUPID'S GROVE
TOGETHER
JOHN & ABIGAILAND WEILL FONDLY SURVEY THAT PROMISED LAND!
'TIL THEN, 'TIL THENI AM, AS I EVER WAS, AND EVER SHALL BE •••YOURSYOURSYOURSYOURSYOURS
ABIGAIL(Beating him to it)
SALTPETRE JOHNl(And SHE goes.
JOHN smiles. Now the DAYLIGHT returns-- the next morning. FRANKLINenters)
FRANKLINSorry to be late, John -- I was up 'til all hours. Havey'been here long?.,Oh,Not long.
JOHN
FRANKLINAnd what're y'doing out here? I expected you'd be up· thercracking the whip.
JOHNThe shutters are still closed.
MY word, so they are.FRANKLIN
Well, as the French say --
4-61
JOHNSpare me your bawdy mind first thingOh,
in the morn1ngl
(THEY regard the closed shutters)
pare we call?
FRANKLINA Congressman dares anything. Go ahead.
FRANKLINYour voice is more piercing.
JOHN(HE starts, then hesitates)
Maybe weld better come back later.
FRANKLINWhat?
JOHNWell -- itls positively indecent!
FRANKLINOh, John, -- they're young and they're in love.
JOHNNot them, Franklin -- usl Standing out here --
(Gesturing vaguely at the shutteredroom)
waiting for them to -- I mean, what will people think?
FRANKLINDonlt worry, John -- the history books will clean ,it up.
JOHN11'; 'It,doesn r t mattlr -'- I won I t appear in the' histor,y books,anyway -- only you.,
(Thinks about it)·Franklin did this, Franklin did that, ,Frankl,i.n did someother damned thing -- F.t-anklin smote the ground and outsprang George Washington, fUlly grown and on his horse --,Franklin then 'electr,ified him' with' his miraculous, lightning
; rod and the three of them -- Franklin, Washington thehorse -- conducted the entire revolution all by themselves.
FRANKLIN(A pause)
I like it!
(Now the shutter opens and MARTHAappears, dressed and radiant. SHEis HUMMING a tune)
Look at her, John -- just look hert
JOHN(Hypnotized)
I am --
FRANKLINShe's even more magnificent than I remember! Of course, Wedidn't see much of her front last night.
(Calling)Good morrow I madame --
(SHE looks down at him blankly)
JOHNGood morrowl
MARTHAIs it the habit in Philadelphia for strangers to shout atladies from the street?
FRANKLINNot at all, madame, but we're not
MARTHAAnd from men of your age it is not only unseemly -- it'sunsightly.
JOHNExcuse me, madame, but we met last evening.
MARTHAI spoke to no one last evening.
FRANKLINIndeed not, madame -- but nevertheless we presentedourselves. This is Mr. John Adams and I am Dr. Franklin.
(As SHE stares at them, dumbfounded)The inventor of the stove -- ?
MARTHAOh, please, I know your names V$ry well. But you say youpresented yourselves -- ?
4-63
FRANKLIN(Smiling)
ItlS of nO matter -- your thoughts were well taken elsewhere.
MARTHA(SHE turns to the room for a
MY husband is not yet up.
FRANKLINshall we start over? Please join us, madame.
MARTHAYes, of course.
(SHE disappears from the window)
FRANKLINNo wonder man couldn1t write -- who could think ofIndependence married to
(SHE appears, smiling)
MARTHAI beg you to forgive me -- it is indeed an honor meetingthe two greatest men in America.
FRANKLIN(Smiling back)
Certainly the greatest within earshot, anyway.
MARTHAI am not an idle flatterer, Dr. Franklin -- my husbandadmires you both greatly.
FRANKLINThen we are dOUbly flattered we admire very much thatwhich your husband admires.
(A pause as THEY regard each otherwarmly -- THEY've hit it off)
JOHN(Finally; the bull in the china shop)
Did you sleep well, madame?•(FRANKLIN nudges him with his elbow)
I mean, did you lie comfortably? Oh, damn! y'know what Imean!
FRANKLINYes, John, we do. Tell us about yourself, madame -- we'vehad precious little information. What's your first name?
MARTHAMart.ha.
FRANKLINAh. Martha. He might at least have told us that. I'mafraid your husband doesn't say very much.
JOHNHels t.he most silent man in Congress. I've never heardutter three sentences together.
FRANKLINNot everyone's a talker, John --
MARTHAIt's true, you know --
(SHE turns to look at,t.he window)Tom is not -- a talker.
(Singing)OH,'HE NEVER SPEAKS HIS PASSIONS,HE NEVER SPEAKS HIS VIEWS •••WHEREAS, OTHER MEN SPEAK VOLUMES ....THE MAN I LOVE IS MUTE-.
IN TRUTHI CAN'T RECALLBEING WOOeD WITH WORDSAT ALL •••
EVEN NOW •••
JOHNGo on, madame
FRANKLINHow did he win you, Martha -- and how does he hold onto abounty such as you?
MARTHASurely you·ve noticed that Tom is a man of many accomplish-ments -- author, lawyer, farmer, archit.ect# statesman
(SHE hesitates)and still one more that I hesit.ate to mention
•JOHN
Don't hesitate, madame -- don't hesitate!
FRANKLINYes -- what else can that red-headed tombstone do?
MARTHA(SHE looks at them for a moment, thenleans in and 'sings, confidentially)
HE PLAYS THE VIOLINHE TUCKS IT RIGHT UNDER HIS CHIN ••.
MARTHA (Continued)AND HE BOWS ... I>
OH, HE BOWS •••FOR HE KNOWS •••YES, HE KNOWS •• I> THAT' IT' S 1>".
HEIGH, HEIGH, HEIGH DIDDLE-DIDDLE'TWIXT MY HEART, TOM, AND HIS.FIDDLEMY STRINGS ARE UNSTRUNG •••HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-IGH-IGH .....HEIGH • 1>. I AM UNDONE I
(JOHN and FRANKLIN look at one another,not at all sure if putting themon or not)
FRANKLINThe violin, madame -- ?
MARTHAI HEAR HIS VIOLINAND I GET THAT FEELING WITHINAND I SIGH •••I SIGH ...HE DRAWS NEAR •••VERY NEAR ••• AND IT'S •••
HEIGH, HEIGH ••• AND'·GOOD-BYE" .... TO THE FIDDLE.MY STRINGS ARE UNSTRUNG •••HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-ICH-IGHHEIGH .... I'M ALWAYS UNDONE1
4-65
That settles it, JohnP·RANKLINwe're taking up the violin.
JOHN(To MARTHA)
Very well, madame -- you've 90t us playing the violin!What happens. next?
MARTHANext, Mr. Adams?
•Yesl
JOHNWhat does Tom do now?
MARTHA(Demurely)
Why' -- just what. you'd expect --
(JOHN and FRANKLIN exchange expectantlooks)
We dance!
JOHN & FRANKLIN(Together and to each other)
Dance -- 11
FRANKLINIncredible!
(And in an instant SHE has sweptFRANKLIN off into an energetic WALTZ.
JOHN watches them for a moment, stilltrying to understand it)'
JOHNWho's playing the violin?
FRANKLINOh, John -- really!
(And MARTHA leaves FRANKLIN to beqi,fi ...WALTZING with JOHN -- who, to FRANKtfN'sastonishment, turns out to danceexpertly)
John! You can dancel
JOHN(Executing an intricate step; RB'shaving a grand time)
Not everybody's from Philadelphia, Franklin!
(Finally THEY have twirled and spunand danced themselves out)
MARTHA(As SUE catches her breath)
WHEN HEAVEN CALLS TO MESING ME NO SAD ELEGY ••• ISAY I DIED •••LOVING BRIDE •••LOVING WIFELOVING ••• 08, IT WAS •••
MARTHA, JOHN & FRANKLINBEIGi, HEIGH, HEIGH DIDDLE-DIDDLE
MARTHA'TWIXT MY HEART ••• TOM, AND HISFIDDLE ••• AND IEVER •TWILL BE •••HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-IGH-IGHHEIGH ••• THRU ETERNITY •••
•
4-67FRANKLIN
(In counterpoint, playing an imaginary violin)HE PLAYS THE VIOLIN
JOHN(In counterpoint, also bowing an imaginary fiddle)
.....HE PLAYS THE VIOLIN ......
MARTHA(In counterpointf bawing)
....HE PLAYS THE VIOLIN!!!
(NOW, JEFFERSON appears, a fiddle underhis arm -- and stuck on the end of hisbow is a paper.. HE collects his wife andtogether THEY start back toward the room)
I JOHN'Franklin, look! Hels written something -- he's done itli (HE dashes after them, snatches the
paper off the bow and comes back toI FRANKLIN, delighted, and reads it)I,"Dear Mr. Adams: I am taking my wife back to bed. Kindlyi90 away ... Y' r ob'd't, T. Jefferson. tt
(PRANKLIN canlt control himself and laughs aloud)Incredible.
FRANI<LINperhaps 1 1m the one who should've written the Declarationafter all. At my age therels little doubt that the pen ismightier than the sword.
(Singing)FOR ••• IT'S •••HEIGH ••• HEIGH ••• HEIGH ••• DIDDLE ••• DIDDLE
(Wistfu lly)AND •• GOD BLESS THE MAN WHO CAN FIDDLE .....
JOHN(Ever the old war-horse)
AND INDEPENDENCY!
JOHN & FRANKLIN(Regaining their energy)
HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-HEIGH-IGH-IGHYATA-TA-TA-TAH!THROUGH ErERNITYl
(And THEY' exit arm in arm)HE PLAYS THE VIOLIN! ••• VIOLINl ••• VIOLIN! •••
5-66
Scerle 5
The CHAMBER, as before.
AT RISE: is now in session, thoUghin an exceedingly loose manner.While Seeretary THOMSON delivers a.droning' report, it is clear thatNO ONE is listening. HANCOCK sitsat the 'president' 5 table, but HE isoccupied reading the PhiladelphiaGazette, his feet up on the desk;one group of Congressmen -- MORRISREAD, WILSON and DICKINSON -- sit I I
with their heads together I talkinglanother group -- HOPKINS, BARTLETTand SHERMAN -- stands in the rearalso conversing: RUTLEDGE and HElAmspace back and fo.rth across thelength of the Chamber as THEY talk.McKEAN stands by the windowa long rifle;· CHASE, a large napkintied around his neck,' si t:.s eating acomplete meal J WITHERSPOON is asleeat his .deak, his head thrown back,his mouth open and SNORING, andMcNAIR is kept hopping from onegroup to another on this errand andthat -- after HE first goes to thewall calendar and tears off anotherpage; it now reads: "JUNE 22" •. '
THOMSON-- and what follows is a eomplete and up-to-date list of thecommittees of this Congress now sitting, about to sit, orjust having sat: A committee formed to investiage a com-plaint made against the quality of.yeast'manufactured atMr. Henry Pendleton's mill, designated as the Yeast Commit-teer a committee formed to consider the most effective methoof dealing with spies, designated as the Spies Committee: acoromittee formed to think, perhaps to do ,but in any 'case togather, to 'meet, to confer, to talk and perhaps even to re-Bolve that-each rifle regiment be allowed at least one drumand one fife attached to each company, designated as theDrum and Fife Committee; a committee formed to,--
i(FRANKLIN and DR. HALL have entered a.nd.now stand surveying the room)
FRANKLINLook at it, doctor democracy I tfihat Plato called ancharminq form of government, full of variety and disorder. ftI never knew Plato had been to Philadelphia.
,- McNairl
HANCOCK(As HE reads the newspaper)
Open that damn window!
5-69
",i __
.':fo,
HOPKINS(Joining FRANKLIN and HALL, a mugof rum in his hand)
Ben -- I want y'to see some cards live gone In had printedup that ought t' save everybody here a whole lot of timelneffort considering the epidemic of bad disposition that'sbeen going around lately.
(HE reads)"Dear sir: You are without any doubt a rogue, a rascal, avillain, a thief, a 'scoundrel, and a mean, dirty, stinking,sniveling, sneaking, pimping, pocket-picking, thrice double-damned, no good son-of-a-bitch,1I and y' sign y'r name.What do ylthink?
FRANKLIN
All right, Franklinto be done!
(Delighted)Stephen, 1 1 11 take a dozen right now!
THOMSON-- a committee formed to answer all Congressionalcorrespondence' designated as the Congressional'Correspondence Committee --
(JOHN strides in and joins FRANKLIN)
JOlINenough socializing -- therels work
FRANKLIN(Pointedly)
Good morning, John!
JOHNWhat? Oh.
(Waving it aside)Good morning, good morning. Now, then, let's get to it.
FRANKLIN, Letls get to what?
• JOHN(Indicating the tally board)
pnanimity, of course. Look at that boardwin over in little more than a week! I
six Nays to
THOf,-1S0N-- a committee formed to conside'r the problem of counterfeitmoney, designated as the Counterfeit COmmittee --
5-'1Q
FRANKLINAll right, John -- where do we start?
JOHNHow about Delaware? It's a sad thing to find her on thewrong side after all this time -- is there any news ofRodney?
FRANKLIN(Pointing)
McKean's back.
JOHNThomas --
(THEY go to him)
THOMSON-- a committee formed to study the causes of our militarydefeat in Canada, designated as the Military DefeatCommittee --
JOHNHow did you leave Caesar? Is he still alive?
McKEANAye, but the journey to Dover was fearful hard on him. Henever complained but I could see the poor man was
FRANKLINBut you got him safely home.
McKEANI did, but I doubt he'll ever set foot out of it again.
JOHNThat leaves you and Read split down the middle. Will hecome over?
McKEANI don't know -- he's a stubborn little snott
JOHNThen work on him -- keep at him 'til you wear him down1
•McKEAN
Och, John face facts, will y'? If it were just Readstandin' in our way it wouldn't be $0 bqd. But look foryourself, man --
(Indicating the tally board)-- Mary-land, Pennsylvania, the entire South -- it'simpossible!
JOHNIt's impossible if we all stand around complaining about
, it. To work, McKean -- one foot in front of the other.
FRANKLINI believe I put it a better wayto-morrow that which you can do
JOHNOh, shut up, Franklin!
.tNever leave off till?
McKEANBut what good will it do? y' Dickinson -- he'll nevergive in! And y' haven't heard the last of Rutledge yet,either.
JOHNNever mind about them -- your job is George Read. Talk himdeaf if you have to but bring us back Delaware!
McKEANThere's a simplet way --
(Holds up his rifle)this'll break the tie!
(HE goes U.C. to READ)
FRANKLINAll right, John -- who's next?
'(Again, THE'{ turn to study the board)
THOMSON-- a committee to keep secrets, designated as theSecrets committee --
JOHNPennsylvania and Mary-land. I suggest you try to put yourown house in order while I take a crack at Old Bacon Face-- (look at him stuff himself!) -- Ah, Mr. Chase!
(HE goes to him)How about it,Chase? When are you coming to your senses?
• CHASE(Sourly)
Please, Mr. Adams -- not while I'm eating!i
FRANKLINMr. Wilson, it's time to assert yourself. When you werea judge, how in hell did you ever make a decision?
WILSONThe decisions I made were' all based on legality andprecedence. But there is no legality here -- and certainlyno precedent.
5-72
FRANKLINBecause it's a new idea, you clotl We'll be setting ourown precedent!
READ(Together with McKEAN)
No, Mr. McKean -- no, no,
McKEANDamn y'r eyes, Read -- y' came into this world screamin'"no" and y're determined to, ,leave l,t the same "way!
JOHN(With CHASE)
The Congress is waiting on you, Chase -- America's waiting-- the whole world is waitingl What's that -- kidney?
(HE takes a morsel of food fromCHASE's plate with his fingersbut CHASE slaps his hand and HEdrops it)
CHASELeave me alone, Mr. Adams -- you're wasting your time. IfI thought we could win this war I'd be at' the front of yourranks. But you must know it's impossible! You've heardGeneral Washington's dispatches -- his army has fallenapart.
JOHNWashington's exaggerating the situation in order to arousethis torpid Congress into action. Why, as Chairman of theWar Committee I can tell you for a fact that the army hasnever been in better shape 1 Never have troops been sochee'rfull Never have 'soldiers been more resolute! Neverhave discipline and training been more spirited! Never •••
(The COURIER enters, dusty as ever.JOHN winces)
Good God!
(The COURIER deposits his dispatchon THOMSON's desk and goes. 'HANCOCKputs down his paper and GAVELS)
• HANCOCKMay we have your ears, gentlemen --? Mr. Thomson has adispatch.
(EVERYONE turns to listen.WITHERSPOON is nUdged awake)
THOMSON(Ringing his BELL)
From the Commander, Army of the United Colonies; in New York,dispatch number, one thousand one hundred arid fifty-seven.
5-73
THOMSON (Continued)"To the honorable Congress, John Hancock, President. Dearsir: It, is with the utmost despair that I must report toyou' the confusion and disorder that reign in every depart-ment. The Continental soldier is as nothing ever seen inthis, or any other, century; he is a misfit, ignorant ofhygiene, destructive, disorderly and totally disrespectfulof rank. Only this last is understandable as there is anincredible reek of stupidity amongst the officers. Thesituation is most desperate at the New Jersey, TrainingGround in New, Brunswick where every able-bodied whore,--whore in the Colonies has assembled. There are constantreports of drunkenness, desertion, foul language, nakedbathing in the Raritan River, and an epidemic of the French
I have declared· the town 'off-limits' to all, 'military -- with the exception of officers. Ibeseech the Congress to dispatch the War Committee to thisplace in the hope of restoring some of the order anddiscipline we need to survive. Y'r ob'd't
(DRUM ROLL)
-- G. Washington."
McKEANOeh! The man would depress a hyena!
HANCOCKWell, Mr. Adams -- you're Chairman of the War Committeedo yl feel up to whoring, drinking, deserting and New
, Brunswick?
WITHERSPOONf,,'l'here must be some mistake -- I have an aunt who lives in, Brunswick!
(LAUGHTER)
DICKINSONtell her to keep up the good work!
(LAUGHT'ER)
come, Mr. Adams -- you must see that it's hopeless.Let us recall-General Washington and disband the
Army we are overwhelmed.
JOllN Iyes -- the English would like that, wouldn't they?
DICKINSON'not ask them yourself? They ouqht ,to be here any minute.
(LAUGHTER)
5-74
RUTLEDGEAnd when they hang you, Mr. Adams, I hope you will put ina good word for the rest of us.
(A distressed silence)
CHASEFace facts, Mr. Adams -- a handful of drunk and disorderlyrecruits against the entire British Army, the finestmusketmen on earth -- how can we win -- how can we evenhope to survive?!
JOHNAnswer me straight, Chase -- if you thought we could beatthe redcoats -- would Mary-land say "yea" to Independence?
CHASEWell -- I suppose --
JOHNNo supposing, Chase -- would you or wouldn't you?
CHASEVery well, Mr. Adams -- yes, we would.
JOHNThen come with me to New Brunswick and see for yourself!
McKEANJohn! Are y' mad?!
BARTLETTy' heard what Washington said -- it's a shambles up there.
HOPKINSThey're pushin' y' into it, Johnny
JOHNWhat do y' say, Chase?
Go ahead, SamMORRIS
it sounds lively as hell up there.
•All right why not?comes to his senses.
CHASEAnd maybe it'll be John Adams who
JOHNMr. President -- the War Committee will heed GeneralWashington's requestl A party consisting of Mr. Chase,Dr. Franklin and myself will leave immediately.
5-75HANCOCK
Is that satisfactory with you, Dr. Franklin?
(ALL eyes turn to FRANKLIN who isasleep again.)
JOHNwake up, Franklin -- you're going to New Brunswick!
FRANKLINLike hell I am. What for?
HOPKINSThe whoring and the drinking.
(A pause. FRANKLIN rises energetically. ADAMSturns and prods CHASE out the S.R. doors.FRANKLIN follows)
JOHNCome on, Chase -- move all that lardl We've no time tolose I Left-right, left-right, left-right --
(And are gone.
The other LIBERALS then go, leavingon ly the CONSERVATIVES • DICKINSONlooks around, then rises and crosses D.L.)
DICKINSONMr. McNair -- all this talk of Independence has left acertain foulness in the air --
(LAUGHTER from the CONSERVATIVES)-- My friends and I would 'appreciate it if you could opensome windows.
McNAIRWhat about the flies?
DICKINSON(Smiling)
The windows, McNair.
McNAIR(Shrugging and crossing R. to the/windows)
Open the windows! Close the windows! Sweet Jesus!
(As HE opens the window four bells are heardto chime. HE crosses up to his chair. HANCOCKand THOMSON read at their desks. DICKINSONcrosses R. to the open window and sings:)
DICKINSON (Continued)OR SAY DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?CONGRESS SITTING HERE IN SWEET SERENITYI COULD CHEER,THE REASON'S CLEARFOR THE FIRST TIME IN A YEARADAMS ISN'T HERE ••• tAND, LOOK ITHE SUN IS IN THE SKYTHE BREEZE IS BLOWING BYAND THERE'S NOT A SINGLE FLY!
OH SING IIHOSANNA," IIHOSANNA II
CONSERVATIVES'1HOSANNA, II n HOSANNAI'
DICKINSON••• AND IT'S COOL!
OR YE COOL COOL CONSERVATIVE MENOUR LIKE MAY NEVER EVER BE ••• SEEN AGAINWE HAVE LANDCASH IN HANDSELF-COMMANDFUTURE PLANNEDFORTUNE THRIVESSOCIETY SURVIVESIN NEATLY ORDER'D LIVESWITH WELL-ENDOWER'D WIVES
CONSERVATIVESCOME SING uHOSANNA," "HOSANNA"
DICKINSONIN OUR BREEDING AND OUR MANNER
CONSERVATIVESWE ARE COOL!
COOL, COOL CONSERVATIVE MENRUTLEDGE, WILSON, READ, MORRIS, HALL,LIVINGSTON and HEWES among them ---elegantly prepare to dance)
DICKINSONCOME YE COOL COOL CONSIDERATE SETiWE'LL DANCE TOGETHER TO THE SAME MINUETTO THE RIGHTEVER TO THE RIGHTNEVER TO THE LEFTFOREVER TO THE RIGHT
5-76
5-77
DICKINSON (Continued)LET OUR CREEDBE NEVER TO EXCEEDREGULATED SPEEDNO MATTER WHAT THE NEEDI
CONSERVATIVESCOME SING IIHOSANNA" ••• uHOSANNA"
DICKINSONEMBLAZONED ON OUR BANNERIS IIKEEP COOLI"
CONSERVATIVES(THE MINUET is led by DICKINSON andRUTLEDGE, as the CONSERVATIVES dance.During this the COURIER re-enters anddeposits his dispatch as usual, onTHOMSONls desk. McNAIR goes to himand offers him a rum)
TO THE RIGHTEVER TO THE RIGHTNEVER TO THE LEFTFOREVER TO THE RIGHT
DICKINSONHANDS ATTACH
; TIGHTLY LATCHc: EVERYBODY IvU\.TCH
THOMSONHAVE A NEW DISPATCH
(The MUSIC stops but the MINUETcontinues silently)
the Commander, Army of the United Colonies: in New York,tch number one thousand one hundred and fifty-eight.he honorable Congress, John Hancock, President. DearI awoke this morning to find that Gen. Howe hastwenty-five thousand British regulars and Hessian'aries on Staten Island and that the fleet, under thed of his brother, Admiral Lord Howe, controls not onlydsen and Rievers, but New York Harbour, which nowlike all of London afloat. I can no longer, in goodence, withhold from the Congress my certainty that themilitary object at this time is philadelphia.hould I be if I could see the means ofut at present I confess I do not. Oh , how I wish Ier seen the Continental Army. I would have doneo retire to the back country and live in a wigwam.d't -- '
(DRUM ROLL)
5-78
(A short PAUSE, then MUSIC BEGINSagain and the SONG continues as ifnothing had happened)
CONSERVATIVES(Singing)
WHAT WE DO WE DO ••• RATIONALLY
DICKINSONWE NEVER EVER GO OFF HALF-COCKED, NOT WE
CONSERVATIVESWHY BEGIN?'TIL WE KNOW THAT WE CAN WINAND IF WE CANNOT WINWHY BOTHER TO BEGIN ••• ?
RUTLEDGEWE SAY THIS NOT OF OUR CHOOSINGWHY SHOULD WE RISK LOSING ••• ?
CONSERVATIVESWE COOL ••• COOL ••• 1\'1EN.
DICKINSON(Spoken; still dancing)
Mr. Hancock -- youtre a man of property -- one of us. Whydon't you join us in our minuet? Why do you persist indancing with John Adams? Good Lord, sir, you don't evenlike him!
HANCOCK(Singing)
THAT IS TRUEHE ANNOYS ME QUITE A LOTBUT STILL ItO RATHER TROTTO MR. ADAI-1S' NEW GAVOTTE •••.
DICKI1\lSON(Spoken; HE continues dancing)
But why -- for'personal glory? For a place in history? Becareful, sir history will brand him and his followers astraitors! •
HANCOCKTraitors to what, Mr. Dickinson -- the British Crown? Orthe British half-crown? Fortunately, there are not enoughmen of propertY-in America to dictate policy.
DICKINSONPerhaps not -- but don't forget' that most men with nothingwould rather protect the possibility of becoming rich thanface the reality of being poor. And that is why they willfollow us --
5-79
CONSERVATIVES-- TO THE RIGHTEVER TO THE RIGHTNEVER TO THE LEFTFOREVER TO THE RIGHTWHERE THERE'S GOLDA MARKET THAT WILL HOLDTRADITION THAT IS OLDA RELUCTANCE TO BE BOLD
DICKINSONI SING "HOSANNA" ...... "HOSANNA"IN A SANE AND LUCID MANNER •••
CONSERVATIVESWE ARE COOLIWE'RE THE COOL COOL CONSERVATIVE MEN!WHOSE LIKE MAY NEVER EVER BE SEEN AGAIN!WITH OUR LAND •••CASH IN HAND ..SELF-COMMAND .FUTURE PLANNED
AND WE' LL HOLD ......TO OUR GOLD •••TRADITION THAT IS OLDRELUCTANT TO BE BOLD!
WE SAY THIS GAME'S NOT OF OUR CHOOSINGWHY SHOULD WE RISK LOSING
WE ••• COOL, COOL, COOL, COOL, COOL, COOL,COOL, COOL, COOL, COOL, COOL, ,COOL,
COOL •••COOL •••
..... I!(THEY turn and go, leaving only McNAIR,the APRON and the COURIER inthe Chamber.. TIlEY are silent for amoment)
i . • McNAIRiSweet Jesus, howl'd you like to try •n borrow a dollar from:one o' them?i (To the COURIER)Want another rum, Gen1rul?
COURIER
(Grins)I ain't even a
Ii
Gen'rul?!\
McNAIRYeah, well, what's the army know?
(HE pours the COURIER another drink,pours himself and the LEATHER APRONa pair, selects one of HANCOCK's goodclay pipes, lights it, then bMjgswith the GAVEL)
Sit down, gentlemen -- the Chair rules it's too damn hattwork!
(HE occupies one cha1r, the COURIERanother, and the LEATHER APRON stilla third)
What's it like out there, Gen'rul?
COURIERYou prob'ly know more'n me --
McNAIRSittin' in here? Sweet Jesusl This is the last tofind out what's goin' on!
LEATHER APRON(To the COURIER)
I'm aimin' t' join up!
McNAIRWhat're you talkin' about? You dontt have to join up --you 1 re in the Congress!
LEATHER APRONWhatls that got t' do with it?
McNAIRY' donlt see them rushin' off t' get killed, do you? Butthey sure are ones fir sendin' others, 1 1 11 tell youthat.
COURIER(Indicating his chair)
Who sets here?
McNAIRCaesar of Delaware. Where you from, Gen'rul?
COURIERWatertown.
McNAIRWhere's that?
COURIERMassachusset.
5-81
MCNAIRwell, then -- you belong down there. But be careful '--"there's somethin ' about that chair that makes a man awfulnoisy.
(The COURIER goes to JOHN's chair andtouches it reverently before HE sits)
LEATHER APRONany fightin'?
COURIER(Proudly)
re did -- I see'd my two best friendS git shot dead on they same dayl Right on the village green it was, tool
(The recollection takes hold)" when they didn't come home fir supper -- their mommast down the hill lookin , for 'em. Miz Lowell -- she faun''thy right off -- but "Miz Pickett -- she looked near halfnight' fir Will'm 'cuz he'd gone 'n crawl'd off the greenre he died
(HE is silent for a moment -- thenHE sings:)
MOMMA, BEY MOMMACOME LOOKIN' FOR ME.I'M HERE IN THE MEADO'BY TH I RED MAPLE TREE.MOMMA, HEY MOMMA,LOOK SHARP -- HERE I BEHEY, HEY,MOMMA, LOOK SHARPl
THEM SO'JURS, THEY FIRED'OB, MA, AND WE RUNBUT THEN WE TURN' D 'ROUNDAN' TH' BATTLE BEGUNTHEN I WENT UNDER,OS, MA, AM I DONE ••• ?Y, HEY,OMMA, LOOK SHARPl
EYES ARE WIDE'OPENY FACE TO TH' SKYS THAT YOU I'M HEARIN'TH' TALL NEARBY?
, HMA, COME F INC ME, FORB I 00 DIE •••Y, HEY,
, LOOK SHARP!
LL CLOSE ytR EYES, MY BILLYEM EYES THAT CANNOT SEE
COURIER (Continued)AN' r'LL BURY YA, MY BILLYBENEATH TH' MAPLE TREEAN' -- NEVER AG'INWILL yl WHISPER T' ME •••"HEY, HEY" --OH MOMMA -- LOOK SHARP
(The LIGHTS fade)
(END OF ACT ONE if to beperformed in TWO ACTS.)
•
6-83(At the end of the intermission both the stageand houselights go out while the entracte isheard. The travelers close in. At the conclusionof the music we hear THOMSON's bell, then:)
HANCOCK'S VOICE,e secretary will now read the report of the Declaration,romittee. Mr. Thomson
THOMSON'S VOICE, Declaration by the Representatives of the United States oflerica in General Congress assembled __ II
(Lights corne up and we are in:)
Scene 6
An anteroom, off the main Congress.JEFFERSON stands S.L. by a door inthe traveler, which he holds open.Through this door we hear:
THOMSON'S VOICE-- When in the Course of Human Events, it becomes,cessary for one People to dissolve the political Bandsl;ch have connected them with another, and to assume amongIe Powers of the Earth, the separate and equal Station tolich the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them,decent Respect to the Opinions of Mankind requires thatley should declare the causes which impel them to the,paration. We hold these Truths to be self evident, that.1 Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their'eator with certain inalienable Rights __ II
(JEFFERSON, having heard a SOUND, off,closes the door, silencing THOMSON'SVOICE -- and JOHN and FRANKLIN enterfrom S.R.)
JOHNifferson -- welre back and welve got Mary-land -- that is,, will, soon as gets through telling the Mary-landIsembly what we saw in New Brunswick!
FRANKLIN,'s in Annapolis right now describing a ragtag collection, provincial militiamen who couldn't train together, drill.gether or march together -- but when a flock of ducks flew, and they saw their first dinner in three full days, sweetISUS! Could they shoot together! It was a slaughter!
JEFFERSON(Not listening)
They're reading the Declaration.
JOHNWhat? How far have they got?
JEFFERSON" -- to render the Military independent of and superior tothe Civil Power."
(JOHN opens door to Chamber)
THOMSON'S VOICEII __ independent of and superior to __ II
(JOHN closes the door. The THREE MENpace for a moment)
JOHNWell, there's nothing to fear -- it's a masterpiecel I'mto be congratulated.
FRANKLINYou?
JOHNFor making him write it.
Ah, yesFRANKLIN
of course.
(THEY are silent for a momentl then ••• )
JOHN(Singing)
IT'S A MASTERP.IECE, I SAYTHEY WILL CHEER EV'RY WORD,EV'RY LETTER .•• I
JEFFERSONI WISH I FELT THAT WAY •••
• FRANKLINI BELIEVE I CAN PUT IT BETTER I
NOW THEN, ATTENDAS FRIEND TO FRIENDOUR DECLARATION COMMITTEEFOR US I SEEIMMORTALITY •• ,
ALLIN PHILADELPHIA CITY •••
6-85
FRANKLINA FARMER •••A LAWYER •••AND A SAGEIA BIT GOUTY IN,THE LEG '"YOU KNOW IT'S QUITE BIZARRETO THINK THAT HERE WE AREPLAYING MIDWIVES TOAN EGG.
JOHNEgg? What egg?
FRANKLINAmerica -- the birth of a new nation!
JEFFERSONIf only we could be sure of what kind of a bird it's goingto be.
FRANKLINTom's got a point -- what sort of a bird should we chooseas the symbol of our new America?
JOHNThe eagle.
JEFFERSONThe dove.
FRANKLINThe turkey.
(JOHN and JEFFERSON look at FRANKLINin surprise, then at each other)
JOHNThe eagle.
JEFFERSONThe dove.
JOHNThe eaglel •
JEFFERSON(Shrugging)
The eagle.
FRANKLIN(A pause)
The turkey.
•
JOHNThe eagle is a majestic bird.
FRANKLINThe eagle is a scavenger; a thief, a coward and theof more than ten centuries of European mischief.
<JOHNAnd the turkey -- ?
FRANKLINA truly noble bird, a native of America, a source ofsustenance to our settlers and an incredibly brave feliowwho would not flinch from attacking an entire regiment OfEnglishmen single-handedlyl Therefore the national bird OfAmerica is going to be
JOHNThe eagle.
FRANKLIN & JEFFERSON(Shrugging)
The eagle.
(A pause. Then: )
JOHN(Singing)
WE'RE WAITING FOR THE •••
ALLCHIRPl CHIRPl CHIRPIOF AN EAGLET BEING BORNWAITING FOR THECHIRP I CHIRP I CHIRP I
ON THIS HUMID MONDAY MORNINGIN THIS CONGRESSIONAL INCUBATOR!
FRANKLINGOD KNOWS, THE TEMP'RATURE'S HOT ENOUGHTO HATCH A STONELET ALONEAN EGG!
JOHNWE'RE WAITING FOR THE •••
ALLSCRATCH! SCRATCH I SCRATCHlOF THAT TINY LITTLE FELLOWWAITING FOR THE EGG TO HATCH
ON THIS HUMID MONDAY MORNINGIN THIS -- CONGRESSIONAL INCUBATOR I
II JOHN
GOD KNOWS THE TEMP'RATURE'STO HATCH A STONEI
HOT ENOUGH
6-i17
JEFFERSONBUT WILL IT fiATCHAN EGG?
J8ilN(Spoken)
The Declaration will be a triumph, I tell you -- a triumphlIf I was ever sure of anything I'm sure of that a triumph!
(A pause)And if it isn't. we've still got four days left to think ofsomething else., (Singing)
THE EAGLE'S C9ING TOCRACK THE SHELLOF THE EGG TaAT ENGLAND LAIDI
ALLYESSIRI WE CANTELL I TELL! TELL ION THIS HUMID MONDAY MORNINGIN THIS -- CONGRESSiONAL
FRANKLINAND JUST AS TOM, HERE. HASTHO' THE SHELL MAY BELONG TO GREAT BRiTAINTHE EAGLE iNSIDEBELONGS Ta USI
ALLAND JUST AS TOM, HERE, HAS WRITTEN!WE SAY "TO HELL" WITH GREAT BRITAIN ITHE EAGLE INSIDE '"BELONGS TO USIII
(THEY turn go confidently intothe Chamber)
•
7-88
Scene 7
The CHAMBER.
Congress is in session -- HANCOCRBARTLETT, HOPKINS, SHERMAN, MORal'LIVINGSTON, WITHERSPOON, DICKINSQWILSON, McKEAN, READ, HEWES,RUTLEDGE, and HALL being presentand nOW JOliN, FRANKLIN, andJEFFERSON take their places -. thaction continuing from the previascene. And THOMSON now completeshis reading of the Declaration.The calendar on the wall now reaQ"JUNE 28. II
THOMSON" -- and that as Free and Independent States, they have fuPower to levy War, conclude peace, contract Alliances,establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Thingswhich Independent States may of right do. And for thesupport of this Declaration we mutually pledge to each othour Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor."
(Finished, HE looks up.
Nobody moves, nobody speaks, nobodyreacts; the silence is complete andprolonged)
HANCOCK(Finally)
Very well. Thank you, Mr. Thomson. The Congress has hearthe report of the Declaration Committee. Are there any whwish to offer amendments, deletions or alterations to theDeclaration?
(Suddenly, EVERY HAND but JOHN's,FRANKLIN's, JEFFERSON's and HOPKINS',shoots up)
CONGRESSMr. -- IHear me, Mr. President -- II've got one IOver here(Etc. )
HANCOCK(HE GAVELS for order)
Gentlemen, please! McNair -- you'd better open the windowColonel McKean -- I saw your hand first.
r7-89
McKEANm -- it's a bonny paper ¥'ve written -- butmewhere in it ylve mentioned "Scottish and foreign'rcenaries sent t I destroy us." Scottish, Tom?
JOHN"s in reference to a Highland regiment which stoodainst us at Boston.
McKEANh, it was more likely Germans wearin' kilts to disguise,eir hein I there. I ask y I to remove the word and avoidvinl offense to a good people.
THOMSONJefferson -- ?
(JEFFERSON nods and THOMSON scratcheshis quill pen through the word. Themany HANDS go up again)
HANCOCK,e Reverend Witherspoon -- ?
WITHERSPOON'. Jefferson -- nowhere do you mention the Supreme Being.Irtainly this was an oversight for how could we hope toIhieve a victory without his help? Therefore I mustmbly suggest the following addition to your final sentenceri th a firm a lliance on the protection of Divine Providence. II
(Again THOMSON looks at JEFFERSON who,in turn looks at JOHN, the two patriotsshrug, then JEFFERSON turns back to THOMSONand nods, the phrase is added. More HANDS)
HANCOCKRead --
READyour charges againsthim of depriving us
try. This is untrtte, sirId trial by jury.
the King, Mr. Jefferson, youof the benefits of trial byin Delaware we have always
JOHNl Massachusetts we have not.
READl. Then I suggest that the words "In many cases" beIded.
THOMSON'. Jefferson ?
(And again, JEFFERSON nods; the wordsare added)
McKEAN"In many casesJ"-- oCh, brilliant! I g'pose every timsee those three words y'r puny little chest'll swell upe/I':pride over y'r great historical contribution I
It'srace
READmore memorable than your unprincipled whitewash Ofof barbarians I thl
HANCOCK
;\,{.;
(GAVELING)Mr. Read -- Colonel McKean -- that's enough!
(The HANDS are raised, this timeHOPKINS' among them)
Mr. Hopkins --
HOPKINSNo objections, Johnny -- I'm just trying to get a drink,
HANCOCKI should1ve known. McNair, get him a rum.
(Again, the HANDS go up.
McNAIR crosses to the wall calendarand removes a leaf, uncovering"JUNE 29")
Mr. Bartlett --
BARTLETTMr. Jefferson -- I beg you to remember that we still have
in England. I see no purpose in antagonizing themJwlth such phrases as "unfeeling brethren II and "enemies in
Our quarrel is with the British King, not theBritish People.
JOHNBe sensib!e, Bartlett removeparagraph beoomes meaningless.the most stirring and poetic ofdocument:
those phrases and the entirAnd it so happens it' 5 amonany passage in the entire
(HE pi.cks up the Declaration fromTHOMSON's desk, preparing to read)
BARTLETTWe're a Congress, Mr. Adams, not a literary society. I askthat the entire paragraph be strickenl
7-91
THOMSONMr. Jefferson -- ?
(And again JEFFERSON nods, this timerather sadly)
Good God, Jeffersonlyour own work?!
JOHNDon't you ever intend to speak up for
JEFFERSONI had hoped that the work would speak for itself.
(THOMSON SCRATCHES out the paragraph)
McNAIRHancock
HANCOCKat is it, Mr. McNair?
McNAIRcan't say I'm very fond of the United States of Americaa name for a new country --
HANCOCKdon't care what you're fond of, Mr. McNair -- you're notmember of this Congressl Mr. Sherman
SHERMAN(Coffee in hand, as usual)
ther Jefferson I noted at least two distinct andect references to the British Parliament in yourlaration. Do you think it's wise to alienate that augusty in light of our contention that they have never had any
authority over us, anyway?
JOHNrevolution, damnitl We're going to have to offend
FRANKLIN
(HE lea.s JOHN downstage as the debatein the Chamber continues silentlybehind them)
, you'll have an attack of apoplexy if you)re notful.
JOHN,you heard what they're doing to it? Have you
FRANKLINI John, I've heard, but --
JOHNAnd so far it's only been our friends I Can you imagineour enemies will do?1
HANCOCK-- The word lIParliament" will be removed wherever it occur
JOHNThey won't be satisfied until they remove one of the "F's"from Jeffersonls name.
FRANKLINCourage. John I It won't last much longer.
(THEY start back toward their seatsas the HANDS go up again.
And again McNAIR goes to the calendarand removes another page; it now reads:"JUNE 30")
HANCOCKMr. Dickinson --
DICKINSONMr. Jefferson -- I have very little interest in your paperas there is no doubt in my mind that we have all but heardthe last of it. But I am curious about one thing -- why dyou refer to King George as a tyrant?
JEFFERSONBecause he is a tyrant.
DICKINSONI remind you, Mr. Jefferson, that this IItyrantll is stillyour king.
JEFFERSONWhen a king becomes a tyrant he thereby breaks the contracbinding his subjects to him.
DICKINSONHow so?
• JEFFERSONBy taking away their rights.
DICKINSONRights that came from him in the first place --
JEFFERSONAll except one -- the right to be free comes from nature.
7-93
DICKINSON· Wilson -- do we in Pennsylvania consider King arant?
DICKINSONJefferson. Your Declaration does notI demand the word I'tyrant ll be removed!
you are, Mr.for us all.
WILSON? Well -- I don't know --
(As HE meets DICKINSON's stony stare)• NO -- no, we donlt -- he's not a tyrant innnsylvania --
(THOMSON begins'SCRATCHING it out)
JEFFERSONat a moment, Mr. Thomson I dotyrant whether we say so or not.
not consent. The King isWe might as well say so.
THOMSONt I already scratched it out --
JEFFERSON(Forcefully)
en scratch it back in!
(A surprised SILENCE)
HANCOCK(Finally)
ut it back, Mr. Thomson the King will remain a tyrant.
(Once more McNAIR goes to the calendarand changes the dat" -- to "JULY 1")
• Hewes
HEWES· Jefferson -- nowhere do you mention deep-sea fishin 'ights. We in North Carolina
throws up his hands indisgust and impatience)
JOHNood Godl Fishing rights I How long is this piddling to gon?! We have been sitting here for three full days -- weave endured, by my count, eighty-five separate changes ande removal of close to four hundred words -- would you whipnd beat it 'til you break its spirit? I tell you thisocument is a masterful expression of the American mind!
(There is a SILENCE)
7-9
HANCOCKIf there are nO more changes, then, I can assume that thereport of the Declaration Committee has been --
RUTLEDGE(Deliberately)
Just a moment, Mr. President --
FR.l\NKLIN(To JOHN)
Look out.
RUTLEDGEI wonder if we could prevail upon Mr. Thomson to read aga:a small portion of Mr. Jefferson's Declaration -- the onebeginnin I "He has waged cruel war -- 1'·
I'.ANCOCKMr. Thomson -- ?
THOMSON(Reading back, rapidly, to himself)
" -- He has affected -- He has combined -- He has abdicateHe has plundered -- He has constrained -- He has excit,
-- He has incited -- He has waged cruel warl" Ah."(Looks up)
Here it is.(Clears his throat and reads)
IIHe has waged cruel war against human nature itself, in tipersons of a distant people who never offended him,captivating and carrying them into slavery in anotherhemisphere. Determined to keep open a market where menshould be bought and sold, he has prostituted -- "
RUTLEDGEThat will suffice, Mr. Thomson, I thank you. Mr. JefferscI can't quite make out what it is you're talkin' about.
JEFFERSONSlavery, Mr. Rutledge.
RUTLEDGEAh, yes.- You're referrin ' to us as slaves of the King_
JEFFERSONNo, sir -- I'm referring to our slaveS. Black slaves.
Ahl Black slaves.tryin' to hide your
No, sir.
RUTLEDGEWhy didn't youmeanin ' ?
JEFFERSON
say· so, sir? Were you
7-95
RUTLEDGEJust another literary license, then.
JEFFERSONIf you like.
RUTLEDGEI don't like at all. Mr. Jefferson -- to us in SouthCarolina, black slavery is .our peculiar institution and acherished way-of-life.
JEFFERSONNevertheless. we must abolish it. Nothing is more certainlywritten in the Book of Fate than that this people shall befree.
RUTLEDGEI am not concerned with the Book of Fate right now. sirI'm more concerned with what's written in your little paperthere.
JOHNThat "little" paper there deals with freedom for Americans!
Oh. really!Americans --
RUTLEDGEMr. Adams is now callin' our black slavesare-they-now?
They arelany other
JOHNThey're people and they're here --requirement I've never heard of it.
if there is
RUTLEDGEThey are here, yes. but they are not people. sir -- they areproperty.
JEFFERSONNo. sirl They are people who are being treated as property.I tell you the rights of human nature are deeply wounded bythis infamous practice!
RUTLEDGEThen see to wounds, Mr. Jefferson, for you are a--practitioner -- are you not?!
JEFFERSONI have already resolved to release my slaves.
RUTLEDGEThen I'm sorry. for you have also resolved the ruination ofyour personal economy.
JOHNEconomy. Always economy. There's more to this than afilthy purse-string, Rutledge -- it's an offense againstman and God.
HOPKINSIt's a stinking business, Mr. Rutledge -- a stinkingbusiness!
RUTLEDGEIs it really, Mr. Hopkins? Then what's that I smellfloatin' down from the North -- could it be the aroma of
For who holds the other end of that filthypurse-string, Mr. Adams? i
(To EVERYONE)Our northern brethren are feelin' a bit tender toward ourslaves -- they don't keep slaves, no-o but they'rewillin' to be considerable carriers of slaves -- to othersThey are willin' -- for the shillin' --
(Rubbing his thumb and forefingertogether)
or haven't y' heard, Mr. Adams? Clinkl Clink!(Singing)
MOLASSES ••. TORUM ... TOSLAVES ••• !OH, WHAT A BEAUTIFUL WALTZ!
YOU DANCE WITH US,WE DANCE WITH YOU INMOLASSES ••• ANDRUM .•• ANDSLAVES .•. !
WHO SAIL THE SHIPS OUT OF BOSTON,LADEN WITH BIBLES AND RUMWHO DRINKS A TOASTTO THE IVORY COAST,"HAIL, AFRICA! THE SLAVERS HAVE COME "
NEW ENGLAND •.• WITH BIBLES AND RUM!
THE BIBLESCLINK!I
THEI:f:IT'S OFF WITH THE RUM ..• ANDTAKE ON TilE SLAVES CLINK!THEN,HAIL AND FAREWELL!TO THE SMELL ••• OF THE AFRICANCOASTl
MOLASSES TORUM ... TOSI,AVES •.• !
7-97
RUTLEDGE (Continued)'TISN'T MORALS, 'TIS MONEY THAT SAVES!SHALL WE DANCE TO THE SOUNDOF THE PROFITABLE POUND ••• INMOLASSES .•. ANDRUM ... ANDSLAVES .•• !
WHO SAIL THE SHIPS OUT OF GUINEALADEN WITH BIBLES AND SLAVES ?'TIS BOSTON CAN BOASTTO' THE WEST INDIES COAST:"JAMAICA I WE BRUNG WHAT Y' CRAVES!ANTIGUAI BARBADOS IWE BRUNG BIBLESAND SLAVES!"
(Spoken)Gentlemenl You mustn't think our northern friends merelysee our slaves as figures on a ledger -- oh, no sirl Theysee them as figures on the blockl Notice the faces at theauctions, gentlemen -- white faces on the African wharves"Put them in the ships -- cram them in the ships -- stuffthem in the shipsl" gentlemen -- let the auctionbegin!
YA-HAYA-HA HA-MA-HA-CUNDAHHH! I
Gentlemen, do yl hear?!That's the cry of the auctioneer!
(BANG!)YA-HA .••YA-HA ••. HA-MA-HA-CUNDAHHHII
Slaves, gentlemenl Black gold -- livin' gold -- gold!From: ---
ANNN-GO-LAAH ••. IGUINEA-GUINEA-GUINEA ••• IBLACKBIRDS FOR SALEI
(BANG I )AAA-SHAN-TIII '" !IBOI IBOI IBOI IBOI
(BANG I)
BLACKBIRDS FOR SALE!(BANG! )
HANDLE THEM .•. !FONDLE THEH •.. IBUT •.. DON'T FIN-GER THEM •.. !THEY'RE PRIME ..• THE,Y'RE PRIME •..
(BANG! )YA-HAYA-HA •.. HA-MA-HA-CUNDAHHH •.. I!!
BARTLETT(Pleading)
For the love of God, Mr. Rutledge
RUTLEDGEMOLASSES ••. TORUM ... 'fOSLAVES ••. I
please -- II
WHO SAIL THE SHIPS BACK TO aOSTON •••LADEN WITH GOLD '" SEE IT GLEAM?IWHOSE FORTUNES ARE MADEIN THE TRIANGLE TRADE ••• ?HAIL, SLAVERY I THE NEW ENGLANDDREAMl
MR. ADAMS -- I GIVE YOU A TOASTIHAIL, BOSTON IHAIL, CHARLESTON1
WHO STINKETH -- TIlE MOST??l!(HE turns and walks straight out ofthe Chamber.
HEWES of North Carolina follows andHALL of Georgia is right behind them)
JOHN(Desperate)
Mr. Rutledge -- I Mr. Hewes -- Dr. Hall- --(HALL, the last, hesitates at thedoor as his name is called. HEturns, looks at JOHN, starts tosay something, then turns and goesafter the OTHERS)
Donrt worryWITHERSPOON
they'll be back --
McKEANAye -- t' vote us down.
(There is a SILENCE. Then, CHASE·bursts into the Chamber)
CHASE(Elated) I
It's donel Adams -- Franklin -- I have it! And theMary-land Assembly's approved it! I told them about Oneof the greatest military engagements in history -- againsta flock of --
(HE runs down as the news is greetedwith less enthusiasm than expectedand HE sees the glum faces)
What's wrong? I thought --
7-99
DICKINSON
(Smiling)chapter sixteen, verse twenty-six.(HE goes, followed by WILSON, READ,LIVINGSTON and MORRIS.
they've just-- IIWhat is a manlose the entire
(Cordially)You'll have to forgive them, Mr. Chasesuffered a slight setback. And after allprofited, if he shall gain Mary-land, andSouth?" .
II
I
I Matthew,
CHASE joins the ranks of theDEPRESSED as THOMSON moves Marylandinto the "Yean column)
HANCOCK(Lifelessly)
Mr. McNair
McNAIRI know, the flies.
HANCOCKNo -- a rum.
JOHN(Surveying the sorry sight)
Well --? What're you all sitting around for? we'rewasting time -- precious time!
(To McKEAN)Thomas --! I want you to ride down into Delaware andfetch back Caesar Rodney!
John I Are y' mad?he's a dyin ' man!
McKEANIt's eighty miles on horseback -- an'
Nol He's a patriotlJOHN
McKEANOch, John -- what good'll it do? The South's done us in.
• JOHNAnd suppose they change their minds -- can we get Delawarewithout Rodney?l
McKEAN(Shaking his head)
Godl What a bastardly bunch we are!(HE goes)
StephenJOHN
(Turning to HOPKINS)
HOPKINS1 1m gain' to the tavern, Johnnydo for y' there, let me know.
(HE goes)if there's anything Ie
Chase -- Bartlett -_JOHN
BARTLETTWhat's the use, John? The vote's tomorrow morning.
CHASEThere's less than a full day left!
(THEY go)
Roger -- JOHN
SHERMANFace facts, John -- it's finished!
1 1m sorry, John --
(And THEY go.
WITHERSPOON
JOHN looks around, stunned by thedefection. Only FRANKLIN, JEFFERSON,HANCOCK and THOMSON remain)
FRANKLINWe've no other choice, John the slavery clause has to go.
JOHNFranklin -- what are y' saying?!
FRANKLINIt's a we can't afford.
Aa
South!
A halfluxury!
JOHNmillion souls in chains andMaybe you should've walked
Dr. Franklinout with the
FRANKLINYou forget yourself, sir! I founded the first anti-slaverysociety on this ContinentI
7-101
JOHNDon't wave your credentials at mel Perhaps it's time yourenewed them!
FRANKLINThe issue here is Independence -- maybe you've lost sight ofthat fact but I have not! How dare you jeopardize our causewhen welve come so far?! These. men, no matter how much wedisagree with them, are not ribbon clerks to be orderedabout -- they're proud, accomplished men, the cream of theircolonies -- and whether you like it or not they and thepeople they represent will be a part of the new countryyou'd hope to createl Either start learning how to livewith them or pack up and go home -- but in any case, stopacting like a Boston fishwife!
(And HE leaves JOHN alone, returningupstage to join JEFFERSON.
JOHN turns and comes downstage)
JOHNGood God, what's happened to me? John Adams -- the greatJohn Adams -- the Wise Man of the East -- what have I cometo? My law practice down the pipe -- my farm mortgaged tothe hilt -- at a stage in life when other men prosper I'mreduced to living in Philadelphia. Philadelphia!!
(ABIGAIL appears, as before)
Oh, Abigail -- what am I going to do?
ABIGAILDo, John?
JOHNI need your help.
ABIGAILYou don't usually ask my advice.
JOHNYes, well -- there doesn't appear to be anyone else rightnow. •
ABIGAIL(Sighing)
Very well, John -- what is it?
JOHNThe entire South has walked out of this Congress -- GeorgeWashington is on the verge of total annihilation -- theprecious cause for which I've labored these several yearshas come to nothing -- and it seems --
(A pause)-_ I am obnoxious and dislik2d
7-102
ABIGAILNonsense, John.
JOHN-- that I am unwilling to face reality
ABIGAILFoolishness, John.
JOHN-- that I am pig-headed
ABIGAIL(Smiling)
Ah, well, there you have me, John -- I'm afraid you arepig-headed.
JOHN(HE smiles, a pause)
Has it been any kind of a life for you, Abby? God knowsI haven't given you much.
ABIGAILI never asked for more -- after all, I am Mrs. John Adams·that's quite a lot for one life-time.
JOHN(Bitterly)
Is it, Abby?
Think of it, Johnlfirst in line to be
".BIGAILTo be marriedhangedl
JOHN
to the man who is always
•
Yes. The ag-i-ta-tor.(Turning to her)
Why, Abby? You must tell me what it isl I've always beendissatisfied, I kriow that -- but lately -- I find that Ireek of discontentmentl It fills my throat and floods mybrain -- and sometimes -- sometimes I fear that there isno longer a dream -- but only the discontentment •
ABIGl\ILOh, John -- can you really know so little about yourself?And can you think so little of me that you'd believe Imarried the man you've described? you forgotten whatyou used to say to me? I haven't. "Commitment, Abby --commitmentl There are only two creatures of value on theface of this earth: those with a commitment -- and thosewho require the commitment of others."
(A pause)Do you remember, John?
7-103
JOHN(Nodding)
I remember.
(MCNAIR enters carrying two gailyberibboned kegs and thumps them downin front of JOHN)
McNAIRMr. Adams --
JOHNWhat?
McNAIRThese're for you.
JOHNJust a minute -- what are they? What's in them?them? I
ABIGAIL
Who sent-----
(Singing)COMPLIMENTS OF THE CONCORD LADIES COFFEE CLUBAND THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRURO SYNAGOGUE,AND THE FRIDAY EVENING BAPTIST SEWING CIRCLE,AND THE HOLY CHRISTIAN SISTERS OF ST. CLAIREALL FOR YOU ••• JOHN !I AM, AS I EVER WAS, AND EVER SHALL BE .••YOURSYOURSYOURS ••.YOURS
JOHN(Spoken)
Just a moment, Abigail -- what's in those kegs?!
ABIGAIL(Tri umphantly)
SALT PETRE ••• JOHN 1! !(SHE blows a kiss and goes ••JOHN turns back to the Chamber)
JOHNMcNair! Go out and bUy every damned pin in Philadelphia!
McNAIRPin? What sort of pin?
JOHNI don't know -- whatever ladies use witrr their sewing IAnd take these kegs to the armory -- hurry, man!
7-104
JOHN {Continued}Franklin -- Jefferson -- what are you just sitting aroundfor?
FRANKLINJohn -- didn't you hear a word that I said before?
JOHNNever mind that -- here's what you've got to do --
FRANKLINJohn! 1 1m not even speaking to you!
JOHNIt's too late for that, damn it! There's work to be donel
(Singing)TIME'S RUNNING our IGEr UP!GEr our OF YOUR CHAIR!TOMORROW IS HERE •••TOO LATE,TOO LATE TO DESPAIRl
(Turning to JEFFERSON)JEFFERSON I ••• TALK TO RurLEDGE, TALKIIF IT TAKES ALL NIGHT,KEEP TALKING •••
JOHN & JEFFERSONTALK AND TALK AND TALK!
JOHN(Spoken)
You're both southern aristocrats -- gentlemen -- if he'lllisten to anybody he'll listen to youl
{Singing, he turns to FRANKLIN}FRANKLIN ITIME'S RUNNING OUT!
FRANKLINI KNOW ••• GET OUT OF MY CHAIR!DO I HAVE TO TALK TO WILSON?
•JOHN
YES, YOU DOlIF IT TAKES ALL NIGHT,KEEP TALKING '"
JOHN, FRANKLIN & JEFFERSONTALK AND TALK AND TALK!
(JEFFERSON exits. JOHN hustles FRANKLIN to door:)JOHN
Get him away from Dickinson! That's the only way to do it!
/"",n""'TT... T T"'T .: ..... _.... T'r_ •• _
7-105
HANCOCK(Coming forward)
I'm still from Massachusetts, John -- you know where Istand. I'll do whatever you say.
JOHN(Considering it)
NO -- you're the President of Congress. You're a fair man,Hancock -- stay that way.
(The COURIER enters and stops shortas HE comes face to face with JOHNwho takes his dispatch and crossesup to THOMSON's desk where HE handsit to the SECRETARY)
Tell me, Mr. Thomson, out of curiosity -- Do you stand withMr. Dickinson -- or do you stand with me?
THOMSON(Holding up the dispatch)
I stand with the General. Lately I've had the oddestfeeling that he's been -- writing to me.
(Singing. HE reads)"I HAVE BEEN IN EXPECTATIONOF RECEIVING A REPLYON THE SUBJECT OF MY LAST FIFTEEN DISPATCHES •• , 1IS ANYBODY THERE •.• ?!DOES ANYBODY CARE ?IDOES ANYBODY CARE ?
y1r humble & ob'd't -- "
(DRUM ROLL; then it RUNS DOWN asTHOMSON, unable to read the signature,rises and goes, thoroughly discouraged.
It is growing DARK outside. HANCOCKstands by the door watching JOHN,concerned)
HANCOCKAre y' hungry, John?
• JOHNNo -- I think I'll stay.
HANCOCKG'night, then
(HE goes.
JOHN looks around the Chamber, thengoes to THOMSON's desk, and picks upthe dispatch)
JOHN(Singing)
"IS ANYBODY THERE ••• ?DOES ANYBODY CARE ••• ?"
(HE drops the dispatch)DOES ANYBODY SEE ••• WHAT I SEE
THEY WANT ME TO QUITTHEY SAY "JOHN, GIVE UP THE FIGHTI"BUT STILL TO ENGLAND I SAY:"GOOD-NIGHT FOREVER, GOOD-NIGHT'l"
FOR I HAVE CROSSED THE RUBICONLET THE BRIDGE BE BURN'D BEHIND MECOME WHAT MAY ••• COME WHAT MAYCOMMITMENTl
THE CROAKERS ALL SAY •••WE'LL RUE THE DAY,THERE'LL BE HELL TO PAY INFIERY PURGATORY I
?
I7-1061
I
i
I
THROUGH ALL THE GLOOM •••THROUGH ALL THE GLOOM •• , I CANSEE THE RAYS OF RAVISHING LIGHT AND .,.GLORY ••• I
IS ANYBODY THERE .,. ?DOES ANYBODY CARE ••• ?DOES ANYBODY SEE .,.WHAT I SEE ••• ?
I SEE .••FIREWORKS!I SEE THE PAGEANT AND POMP AND PARADE!I HEAR THE BELLS RINGING OUTII HEAR THE CANNONS' ROAR II SEE AMERICANS •• , ALL AMERICANS •••FREE I ••• FOR EVERMORE I
(HE .I'comes to" and looks around,realizing that it's DARK and thatHE's alone)
HOW QllIET •• ,HOW QUIET THE CHAMBER IS.HOW SILENT .,.HOW SILENT THE CHAMBER IS
IS ANYBODY THERE ••• ?(HE waits for an answer; there isnone)
DOES ANYBODY CARE ••• ?(Again, nothing)
DOES ANYBODY SEE •• • WHAT I SEE •• , ?
(MUSIC OUT)
7-107
HALL(Spoken)
Yes, Mr. Adams -- I do.
(JOHN turns and discovers the GeorgianDELEGATE standing by the door, in theshadows)
JOHNDr. Hall -- I didn't know anyone was --
HALLI'm sorry if I startled you -- I couldn't sleep. In tryingto resolve my dilemma I remembered something I'd once read-- that a representative Owes the People, not only hisindustry, but his jUdgement -- and he betrays them if hesacrifices it to their opinion.
(HE smiles)It was written by Edmund Burke, a member of the BritishParliament.
(HE walks to the tally board and movesthe name of Georgia from the "Nay" tothe "Yea" column. The TWO MEN regardone another for a moment.
It has been growing LIGHT outside andnow the clock, off, CHIMES ten and theMEN of the CONGRESS return, silently,in single file, EACH with his Ownprivate thoughts, McKEAN supportingRODNEY at the end.
Then HANCOCK GAVELS)
HANCOCKVery well. The Congress will noW vote on Virginia'sresolution on Independence.
(To RODNEY)Thank you for coming, Caesar -- and God bless you, sir.
remind you,the motion.
I
(FOOT STAMPING and other signs ofapproval from ALL)•
Call the roll, Mr. Thomson. And I'dthat a single "Nay" vote will defeatThomson
(THOMSON goes to the tally board.During the following, FRANKLIN willbe deeply engaged in silent argumentwith DICKINSON and WILSON, theirheads remaining together)
gentlemen,Mr.
7-108
THOMSON(Droning)
New Hampshire
BARTLETTNew Hampshire says IIYea. II
THOMSONNew Hampshire ,says "Yea." Massachusetts
JOHNMassachusetts says "Yea. 1I
THOMSONMassachusetts says "Yea." Rhode Islanp --
HOPKINSRhode Island says "Yea."
THOMSONRhode Island says ·Yea." Connecticut
SHERMANConnecticut says "Yea. II
THOMSONConnecticut says "Yea. II New York
MORRISNew York abstains -- courteously.
THOMSONNew York abstains --
MORRIS(Disgusted and ashamed)
Courteously.
THOMSONNew Jersey --
WITHERSPOONNew Jersey says "Yea."•
THOMSONNew' Jersey -says "Yea.'! Pennsylvania
(As no one responds)Pennsylvania --
Mr. Secretaryto us later.
(HE
FRANKLINPennsylvania isn't ready yet -- corne back
returns to the argument)
7-109
THOMSONpennsylvania passes. Delaware--
RODNEY(As McKEAN helps him to his feet)
Delaware -- by majority vote --
McKEANAye I
RODNEYsays "Yea. II
FRANKLINwell done,· sir.
THOMSONDelaware says IIYea."
(And Delaware's marker on the tallyboard is moved into the "Yea II colwnn)
Mary-land
CHASEMary-land says I'Yea. II
THOMSONMary-land says "Yea. II Virginia--
JEFFERSONVirginia says "Yea. II
THOMSONVirginia says "Yea. II North Carolina
HEWESNorth Carolina yields to South Carolina!
THOMSONSouth Carolina --
RUTLEDGE(HE then turns to JOHN)
Well, Mr. Adams -- ?
JOHN(Returning his stare)
Well, Mr. Rutledge -- ?
RUTLEDGEMr. Adams, you must believe that I will do what I havepromised to do.
7-11JOHN
(A pause)What do y' want, Rutledge?
RUTLEDGERemove the offendin , passage from your Declaration.
JOHNIf we did that we'd be guilty of what we oureselves arerebelling against.
RUTLEDGENevertheless, remove it or South Carolina will bury now anforever your dream of Independence.
FRANKLIN(Imploring)
John -- I beg you to consider what you're doing
JOHNMark me, Franklin -- if we give in on this issue, posteritwill never forgive us.
FRANKLINThat's probably true. But we won't hear a thing, John --we'll be long gone. And besides, what will posterity thiwe were -- demigods? We1re men -- no more, no less --trying to get a nation started against greater odds than amore generous God would have allowed. John -- first thingfirst! Independence 1 America I For if we don't secure th]what difference will the rest make?
JOHN(HE looks around, uncertain)
Jefferson -- say something --
JEFFERSONWhat else is there to do?
JOHNWell, man, you're the one who wrote itl
• JEFFERSONI wrote all of it, Mr. Adams!
---(HE goes to THOMSON's table and,taking up the quill pen,the passage from the Declaration.Then HE returns to his seat.
JOHN snatches up the Declarationand goes to RUTLEDGE, waving itunder his nose)
JOHNerel There it is, Rutledge!d little good may it do you!
7-111
You've got yourNow vote, damn you!
RUTLEDGE(Unruffled)
• Secretary -- the fair Colony of South Carolina saysea. u
THOMSONuth Carolina says -·Yea" --
HEWES(Jumping up)
rth Carolina says "Yea!"
THOMSONrth Carolina says nYea."
(The two markers on the tally boardare moved out of the "Nay" columnonly Pennsylvania remains there)
orgia
HALLorgia says "Yea. II
THOMSONorgia says IIYea." Pennsylvania, second call --
DICKINSON(Rising)
President, Pennsylvania regrets all of the inconvenienceat such distinguished men as Adams, Franklin and Jeffersonre put to just now -- they might have kept their documenttact for all the difference it will make. Mr. President,nsylvania says --
FRANKLINst a momentl I ask that the delegation be polled!
• DICKINSON· Franklin -- don't be absurd!
FRANKLIN Ipoll, Mr. President -- it's a proper request.
HANCOCKs, it is. Poll the delegation, Mr. Thomson.
THOMSON· Benjamin Franklin --
FRANKLINYeal
THOMSONMr. John Dickinson --
DICKINSONNayl
THOMSONMr. James. Wilson
(As there is no response)Judge wilson --
(ALL eyes turn to WILSON)
FRANKLINThere it is, Mr. Wilson -- it's up to you now -- the whOlequestion of American Independence rests squarely on yourshOUlders. An entirely new nation, Mr. Wilson -- waitingto be born or to die in birth, all on your say-so. Whichwill it be, Mr. Wilson? Every map-maker in the world iswaiting for your decision!
Come now, JamesFranklin createclear.
DICKINSONnothing has changed.
one of his confusions.We mustn't let Dr.The question is
FRANKLINMost questions are clear when someone else has to decidethem.
JOHN(Quietly; turning the screw)
It would be a pity for a man who handed down hundreds ofwise decisions from the bench to be remembered only for theone unwise decision he made in Congress.
DICKINSONJames -- you're keeping everybody waiting. The Secretaryhas called fer your vote •
•WILSON
(To DICKINSON)Please don't push me, John, I know you want me to do.But Mr. Adams is correct about one thing I'm the onewho'll be remembered for it.
DICKINSONWhat do you mean?
WILSON1m different from you, John -- 1 1m differenthe men here. I don't want to be remembered!ant the responsibility!
7-113
from most ofI just don't
DICKINSONeS, well, whether you want it or not, James, there's noof avoiding it.
WILSONat necessarily. If I go with them I'll only be one amongozena -- n0 one will ever remember the name of Jamesilson. But if I vote with you I'll be the man whorevented American Independence. I'm sorry, John -- I justidn'tbargain for that.
DICKINSON'nd is that how new nations are formed -- by a nonentityrying to preserve the anonymity he so richly deserves?
FRANKLINevolutions come into this worldickinson -- half improvised andide has provided the compromiseupplying the rest.
like bastard children, Mr.half compromised. Our
now Judge Wilson is
lames .....DICKINSON
WILSON(Decisively)
1m sorry, John -- my vote is "Yea".
I
!ennsylvania says IIYea II
THOMSON
(There is a stunned silence as ALL eyesgo to the tally boarc'l and Pennsylvania' smarker is moved into the "Yea column.
Finally: )he count being twelve to none with one abstention -- theiesolution on Inc'lef,enc'lencei (Surprised)1- is adopted.I
JOHNtis done. It's done.
HANCOCK(A pause, then, rising:)
F. Thomson -- is the Declaration ready to be signed?
THOMSONIt is.
HANCOCKThen I suggest we do so. And the Chair further proposesfor our mutual security and protection, that no man be 'allowed to sit in this Congress without attaching his nameto it.
(ALL eyes now go to DICKINSON)
DICKINSON1 1m sorry, Mr. President -- I cannot, in good conscience,sign such a document -- I will never stop hoping for oureventual reconciliation with England. But because, in myown way, I regard America no less than does Mr. Adams, Iwill join the Army and fight in her defense -- even thoughI believe that fight to be hopeless. Goodbye, Gentlemen.
(HE starts out)
JOHNGentlemen of the Congress -- I say ye John Dickinson!
(DICKINSON stops as the CONGRESSexpresses their admiration forDICKINSON by stamping their feetand banging their walking stickson the floor. Then HE goes andHANCOCK GAVELS)
HANCOCKGentlemen -- are there any objections to the Declarationbeing approved as it now stands?
JOHNI have one, Mr. Hancock
HANCOCKYou, Mr. Adams?
JOHNYes. Mr. Jefferson -- it so happens the word is
not inalienable.
1 1m sorry, Mr. AdamsJEFFERSONin alienable is)correct.
JOHN(His voice rising)
I happen to be a Harvard graduate, Mr. Jefferson --
JEFFERSON(Likewise)
And I attended William and Mary, Mr. Adams -- I
7-115
HANCOCK(GAVELS)
entlemen, please! Mr. Jefferson -- will you Jield to Mr.dams' request?
JEFFERSON(A pause)
sir, I will not.
JOHNvery well -- I'll withdraw it.
FRANKLIN(Privately)
ood for you, John.
JOHN'11 speak to the printer about it later.
HANCOCKery well, gentlemen --
(HE goes to THOMSON's desk andpicks up the quill)
we are about to brave the storm in a skiff made of paperand how it will end, God only knows.
(HE signs with a flourish)
HOPKINShat's a pretty large signature, Johnny --
HANCOCKSo Fat George in London can read it without his glasses!
(LAUGHTER)
All right, gentlemen -- step right up -- don't miss yourchance to commit treason!
(LAUGHTER)
FRANKLINHancock's right -- this paper is our passport to thegallows. But the.e's no backing out now -- if we don'thang together we shall most assuredly hang separately.
(LAUGHTER)
McKEAN(Patting his ample middle)
In my case hanging won't be so bad -- one snap and it'llbe over
("Snap! ")just like that! But look at Read, there -- he'll be
dancing a jig long after I'm gone!
7-116
(LAUGHTER)
HANCOCKGentlemen -- forgive me if I don't )010 in the merriment _but if we're arrested now my name is still the only onethe damn thing!
(More LAUGHTER -- which subsidesslowly as the COURIER enters,deposits his dispatch on THOMSON'sdesk and departs, turning to lookat JOHN as HE goes)
THOMSONFrom the Commander, Army of the United Colonies --
(HE stops, looks up)-- Army of the United States -- in New York, dispatch numbeone thousand two hundred and nine. liTo the Hon. Congress,John Hancock, President. Dear Sir: I can now withsome certainty that the eve of battle in New York is near ahand. Toward this end I have ordered the evacuation ofManhattan and directed our defenses to take up strongerpositions on the Brooklyn Heights. At the present time myforces consist entirely of Haslet's Delaware Militia andSmallwood's Mary-landers, a total of five thousand troopsto stand against __ II
(HE hesitates in horrified astonish-ment)
" -- twenty-five thousand of the enemy -- and I begin tonotice that many of them are lads under fifteen and old mennone of whom could truly be called soldiers. One personalnote to Mr. Lewis Morris of New York -- I must regretfullyreport that his estates have been totally destroyed butthat I have taken the liberty of transporting Mrs. Morrisand eight of the children to Connecticut and safety. Thefour older boys are now enlisted in the Continental Army.As I write these words, the enemy is plainly in sightbeyond the river. HoW it will end only Providence candirect -- but dear God! what brave men I shall losebefore this business ends. Y'r ob'd't --
(DRUM ROLL)•-- G. Washington."
(There is a silence duringMcNAIR goes to the calendar andremOves the final leaf, revealing:"JULY 4."
The LIGHT outside has dimmed; itis beComing evening)
HANCOCKVery well, Gentlemen. McNair go ring the bell.
(McNAIR goes)
MORRISMr. President -- I
HANCOCKMr. Morris --
MORRISTo hell with New York -- I'll sign it anyway.
HANCOCKThank you, Mr. Morris. Stephen -- sit down.
7-117
HOPKINS(Who has been standing next to theDeclaration on THOMSON's desk)
NO -- I want t'rernember each man's face as he signs.
HANCOCKVery well. Mr. Thomson
(As each name is called the SIGNERwill rise, come to the SECRETARY'sdesk, sign, then stand to one side.The TOLLING Liberty Bell begins,off)
THOMSONNew Hampshire -- Dr. Josiah BartlettMassachusetts -- Mr. John Adams --Rhode Island -- Mr. Stephen Hopkins --Connecticut -- Mr. Roger Sherman --New York -- Mr. Lewis Morris --New Jersey -- the Rev. Jonathan WitherspoonPennsylvania -- Dr. Benjamin Franklin --Delaware -- Mr. Caesar Rodney --
(HANCOCK takes the Declaration tothen returns it to the table)
Mary-land -- Mr. Samuel Chase --Virginia -- Mr. Thomas Jefferson --North Carolina -- Mr. Joseph Hewes --South Carolina -- Mr. Edward RutledgeGeorgia -- Dr. Lyman Hall --
(As the last MAN signs, the SOUND ofthe TOLLING Liberty Bell in the belfryabove becomes deafening.
Then/'the scene FREEZES for a briefinstant -- and the pose of the familiarTrumbull painting this occasion hasbeen captured.
A scrim CURTAIN falls, the scene visiblethrough it. Then as the back-light DIMSand the CURTAIN is LIT from the frontit becomes opaque and reveals the lowerhalf of the DECLARATION, featuring thesignatures)
FINAL CURTAIN
•
p
111776 11 PROPERTY LIST
iENE 1 CONGRESSIONAL CHAMBER
,NCOCK DESK:
,RTLETT DESK:
'CKINSON TABLE:
:KEAN DESK:
lOMSON DESK:
>WES CHAIR:
)PKIN BENCH:
)AT RACK:
1F LEFT: (OL)
?STAGE LEFT WALL:JSL)
RIGHT: (OR)
•PSTAGE RtGHT: (USR)
rGHT WALL:
2 ELECTRIC LAMPS, INKWELL. QUILL,2 BOOKS (1 Land 1 R), 1 LARGE -2 SMALL CLAY PIPES, SAND SHAKER,GAVEL, FLY SWATTER, MATCHES, 5 PAPERS(3 Land 2 C), 2 MUGS, HAND BELL,CAN TOBACCO.
INKWELL, QUILL, PIPE, FAN, BOOK(LARGE), PAPER (RESOLUTION), MATCHES.
2 BOOKS, SAND SHAKER, INKWELL, 2 QUILLS,EYE GLASSES.
FAN, INKWELL, QUILL, SAND SHAKER.
INKWELL, QUILL, HAND BELL, SAND SHAKER,BOOK, 3 PAPERS, TALLY. LETTER OPENER.
NEWSPAPER ON IT.
FAN.
8 BOWL, LACE NAPKIN, 3 HATS.3 COATS.
FRANKLIN FOOT STOOL BEHIND DOOR. 4 MUGSCHASE FOOD, CANE (PICKED UP FOR JOHN).
2 PIPE RACKS, 5 CLAY PIPES -- LONGSTEM, SAND SHAKER, SMALL METAL MUG.
1 BOOK (JEFFERSON) ON STAGE MANAGER'SDESK .
1 WASTEBASKET.
3 KNAPSACKS (1 WITH POWDER HORN).
PSTAGE RIGHT WALL:USR)
CALENDAR30, JULY I,
MAY 8, JUNE 7, 22, 28, 29,2, 3, 4.
TALLY BOARD - ALL CENTER (ABSTAIN),BAROMETER.
HALL'S WINDOWS CLOSED.
SCENE 2 MALL
OFF LEFT: (OL) SKETCH BOOK (PAINTER), BLACK CRAYON(PAINTER), RIDING CROP (LEE).
SCENE 3 CONGRESSIONAL CHAMBER
SAME AS 1 - ADD:
TEAR CALENDAR TO READ JUNE 7.
HANCOCK DESK:
CHASE CHAIR:
THOMSON DESK:
OFF RIGHT:
PERSONAL:
ADAMS QUILL, MUG WITH ADAMS WATER.
QUILLS (FROM I), FAN, 2 PAPERS.
(2 SLEEVES - CARRIED BY THOMSON).
5 COURIER's DISPATCHES.
COURIER SPURS.
CUE: FINISH "LEES OF VIRGI10 BELLS FOR CHAMBER - USL.
SCENE 4 JEFFERSON's ROOM
VIOLIN CASE ON CHAIR - VIOLIN ON DESKMUSIC STAND WITH MUSICBOOTS (CORNER OF BED)PANTS (OVER CHAIR)5 PAPERSSTRIKE ADAMS QUILLINKWELL (DESK)PILLOW ON BEDRUM JUG, MUG, BOOKS "ON DRESSERHOUR GLASS ON DESKBOOKS ON RAILING.JEFFERSON PRACTICAL QUILL
WARDROBE:
OFF RIGHT:(OR)
VIOLIN AND BOW(NOTE ATTACHED)
STRIKE BAG FROM JEFFERSON SE
CONGRESSIONAL CHAMBER
CONGRESSIONAL CHAMBER
CONGRESSIONAL ANTEROOM
i
CUE: lIMCNAIR THE WINDOW li
4 BELLS - UR.
SOUND
PRACTICAL PEN.
2 DISPATCHES.
CARDS (CALLING)
HANCOCK COAT, SHERMAN COAT (SET),READ COAT, FOOD DISH, BOWL (WOOD),7 CANES.
GUN, RAG.
DECLARATION.
FOOD - SET IN COAT RACK (USE APPLETURNOVER) •
ADD 3 MUGS, 1 JUG, HANDKERCHIEF.
(OR)
DESK:
GHT: (OR) 2 BE-RIBBONED KEGS.
AR TO READ: JUNE 28 •
• CUE: HALL MOVES GEORGIA INTO'YEA' COLUMN -
CHAMBER BELLS UR -11 BELtS. TAPE LIBERTYBELL.
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