Capt. I couldn't run anywhere. Just when the call came for those men, after I had prepared them for battle, and longed to lead them to the field, rheumatism—in the legs too—blasted all my hopes, and left me behind. But my soul was with them, and, if they achieved distinction, they owed it all to my early teaching—to the Bragg they left behind. (Struts up stage.)
John Maynard (to Thornton). Ah! he's a sly old fox.
Thornton (tapping his head). A little wrong here.
Maynard. No, he's a cool, calculating man, but as vain as a peacock.
Capt. (coming down). Sorry I didn't know you had company. Wouldn't have intruded for the world.
Maynard. It's all right, captain. Join us: we were expecting you. (To Thornton.) I can say that truly, for he's always popping in where he's not wanted.
Capt. Ah! thank you. A-husking, I see. What's the yield?
Maynard. Excellent. My five-acre lot has given me two hundred bushels. That's what I call handsome.
Capt. Pooh! you should see my corn. There's nothing like Bragg's corn. My three-acre lot gave me three hundred bushels, and every other ear was a red one.
Chorus. Oh!