A Man of the People

TOM

It's death--boy--it's come--Lord, God, have mercy----

[ABE springs to his feet and stares in anguish, as TOM falls on his knees beside NANCY. NANCY'S hand rests gently on TOM'S shaggy head, while he sobs. With her other hand she feels for ABE'S and holds it feebly.]

NANCY

Be good to your Father,----

[She pauses and breathes with difficulty.]

In the days to come, he will be the child and you the man----

ABE

Yes----

NANCY

And love your sister----

[ABE nods.]

If dark hours come, my spirit will be watching, my son--and I'll help you if I can----

ABE

Yes, I know it!

NANCY

And remember that you can be a great man in this free country if you only say--I will----

[NANCY'S body sinks in death as the boy lifts his face illumined by the light of a great purpose.]

ABE

Yes, Ma,--I will!

C