exits.]

Lincoln

John, the old Fox was trying to head me off, wasn't he——? Get them in here quick—who's the first in turn——?

Nicolay

A young lady to plead for the life of her brother——

Lincoln

Bring her in!

[As Nicolay goes to the door, Lincoln follows to meet the young woman. She enters, a forlorn little figure with baby face and blonde hair. She is plainly dressed in homespun cloth and does not wear hoopskirts. The President greets her with the utmost deference.]

[Taking both her hands.]

My dear young lady—I'm glad to see you—good old Pennsylvania Dutch! I knew you before you spoke—my folks came down to Virginia from there, in the old Colonial days——

The Sister

[Overcome.]

Oh—Meester—Presiden—you are so goot to me—you are so kind——

[Pauses overcome.]

I haf no speech——

Lincoln

Come now, tell me in your own way what I can do to help you——

The Sister

Oh—Meester Presiden—you can do all—you can do any t'ing—und I am so happy to see you—I cannot begin——

Lincoln

[Soothing her.]

Take your time, little girl—all the others will have to wait on you now——

The Sister