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I'm not going to cry again--but I just want to ask _one_ question--you won't mind?
LINCOLN
As many as you like!
BETTY
He--he--had to enter Atlanta a spy, didn't he?
[_Sobs and catches herself._]
LINCOLN
Yes--of course----
BETTY
Well, if he should be captured--could--they execute him without our knowing it?
LINCOLN
They might--but he's a very bright young man! He'll be too smart for them----
BETTY
[_Hopelessly._]
I don't know--I don't know----!
LINCOLN
Now listen--! I'm going to tell you something--I _know_! I've a sort of second sight that tells me things sometimes, my dear. After the battle of Gettysburg I saw General Daniel E. Sickles in the hospital. They told me that he was mortally wounded and could not possibly live. _I_ told General Sickles that he _would_ live and get well, and he did! I saw his living body that day at work in health and strength as plainly as I see you! We have not heard from Captain Vaughan yet, but it will _come_--! He has reached Atlanta. The General got my message. I know that. I felt it flash through the air from his soul to mine! I can see you and your lover at this moment seated side by side smiling and happy----
BETTY
[_In awe._]
You--see--this----!
LINCOLN
[_In dreamy tones._]
As plainly as I see the sunlight dancing on the leaves outside that window now----
[STANTON _enters and_ LINCOLN _turns to meet him eagerly._]
STANTON
You've no news?
LINCOLN
I sent for you, to ask that----
STANTON
Nothing----
LINCOLN
[_In low tones._]
What does it mean?
STANTON
A storm swept Atlanta yesterday--the wires may be all down----
LINCOLN
You think that's it----?
STANTON
No--I don't.
LINCOLN
Neither do I----
STANTON
Something big has happened! Sherman has either taken Atlanta or Hood has cut his communications and his army may be imperiled.
LINCOLN
[_His head droops._]
That's what I think too--G.o.d help us!
[_The sharp click of the telegraph instrument causes him to start quickly, cross to the table and listen. The committee headed by_ RAYMOND _and_ STEVENS _crowd through the door against the protests of_ NICOLAY.]
NICOLAY
I promised you an answer in half an hour, gentleman!--you must wait.
RAYMOND
