[Screens announce scene while Chorus begins Entracte: "When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again".]
[Spotlight on left of stage in front of drawn curtains displaying a young uniformed man, rifle on shoulder. Eyes ahead, he seems to be dictating a letter. As he speaks, the Chorus mutters a military drum-beat. Please see 19th century Vanity Fair drawing and RETURN.]
SOLDIER:
Broadway, New York City
December 16, 1861
Dear Father and Mother,We are all getting along very well in this War. We mess at Delmonico's. Do not repine for your son. It is true that some must suffer for the glorious Stars and Stripes to save the Union, so, my dear parents, why shouldln't I?
I'm sorry to say that the laboring classes are not as patriotic. So few of them have enlisted to serve with our Brave lads in this Glorious War. So, naturally, they have to be drafted.
But there are so many discontents -- and protesters. After all, if a working man doesn't wish to serve in the Draft, he can always pay one thousand dollars to some else to serve in his place! I think they will complain, no matter what. [Pause.]
Tell Mrs. Skuller that we do not need the blankets she so kindly sent to us, as we bunk at the St. Nicholas and Metropolitan. Not the best hotel, but quite adequate. What our brave lads stand most in need of now is Fruit Cake and waffles. [Pause.]
Do not weep for me.
Your loving son,
Henry Adolphus
[DARKNESS]