Page:Hamilton play 1917.pdf/68

56 Why! All the traditions connected with our struggle for independence cluster about the North.

[Ticking it off on his fingers.] There's some truth in that.

It was here in Philadelphia that the Declaration of Independence was signed.

[Checking on fingers.] So it was.

It was in New York that Washington took the oath of office. [ checks.] In New York the government had its beginning. Why, Albany commands the commerce of the four corners of the earth.

[Checking.] Hummm!

And—and there's not a damned bit of reason why the South should have it anyway.

But if the North has all the glory of the traditions of the past, isn't it a good reason why the South should be glorified with the hopes of the future?

No! .. .

Rh