ACT I.
Washington: Mother, it is decided that I should go to sea, is it not?
Mrs. Washington: Yes, George, we had consented to your going to sea but I would much rather have you go back to school and have a good education. According to these old Virginia days the oldest son in the family, when the father dies, receives a plantation and your brother, Laurence, has received a plantation on the Potomac.
Washington: Well, mother, if I give up my plans of going to sea and go back to school, what shall I do?
Mrs. Washington: You will receive a plantation on the Rappahannock.
Washington: Well, I shall give up all my plans and go back to school and I will try to excel in all my work.
Mrs. Washington: You must excel in both work and play and remember the Golden Rule—"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
(Several boys knock and enter—boys bow and speak to Mrs. Washington).
Boys: How do you do, Mrs. Washington.
Mrs. Washington: How do you do, boys.
First Boy: George, we want you to come out and play with us.
Second Boy: Yes, we want you to be our captain.
Third Boy: We will take a walk in the woods.
Fourth Boy: And maybe have a swim in the old swimming pool.
Washington: May I go out with the boys, mother?
Mrs. Washington: Yes, George, but don't forget to come in before it gets too late.
End of Act I.