John Brown
I, John Brown, am now quite certain that the crimes of this land will never be purged away but with blood. For God has given the strength of the hills to Freedom. No man sent me here. I acknowledge no master in human form. I pity the poor in bondage that have none to help them. That is why I am here. You may dispose of me very easily. I am nearly disposed of now. But this negro question is still to be settled. The end of that is not yet. I am ready. Do not keep me waiting. In no other possible way could I be used to so much advantage to the cause of God and of humanity.
[He moves toward the gibbet and the scene goes into darkness with the pounding of a drum.]
Four Voices
A house divided against itself cannot stand.
[A pause and the drum again, tapped twice.]
Eight Voices
(Upon a higher note.)
This government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free.
[Then light upon Freedom.]