Mr. Lincoln: I have been shaking hands since nine o'clock this morning and my right hand is almost paralyzed. If my name ever goes down into history it will be for this act and my whole soul is in it. If my hand trembles as I sign this document, the ones who examine it will say—he hesitated.
GRANT AND LEE
INTRODUCTION:
Ulysses S. Grant was born in Ohio, April 27, 1822. His father was a tanner. He was brought up for farm work. Later went to West Point from where he graduated in 1843. He distinguished himself in the Mexican War. He resigned from the army in 1854, tried various kinds of business in St. Louis and Galena, Illinois. On the day after the fall of Sumter, Grant made up his mind to return to the army. In August 1861 he became a brigadier general. From 1861 to 1863 his name was connected with most of the successful operations in the West, till Lincoln said of him, "I can't spare this man. He fights." His greatest characteristic was his indomitable grit.
The first act will be Grant sending his answer to General Buckner at the capture of Fort Donelson.
ACT I.
(Grant at desk, writing and looking over maps. Men at wall looking over maps. Officer speaks to General Grant.)
Officer: Two soldiers from General Buckner await outside, General Grant.