Sarah: Short, plainly-made calico gown; hair arranged in two long braids, fastened together by dark thread.
John Johnston: Blue overalls and blouse, battered fur cap.
Matilda Johnston: Gown like Sarah's although different in color, hair also done up like Sarah's.
SCENE
Very plain interior. Pine table at center. Split-bottom rocker near it. Two old-fashioned wooden chairs placed a few feet apart at right-front, the same at left-front. At left-rear is a pine cupboard, on the open shelves of which are some cheap earthen dishes. This cupboard must be placed so that the characters can pass behind it to reach the suggested fireplace. Several skins of animals may be tacked about the walls; a pair of deer-antlers should also be in evidence. An old-fashioned gun with powder-horn might be hung in a conspicuous position. A wool spinning-wheel would add to the old-time effect.
Mrs. Lincoln and Sarah are discovered; the former, seated in the rocker, is mending a pair of ragged overalls, which, as she talks, she from time to time holds up and spreads out as if looking for holes. Sarah, at rear of stage, is sweeping vigorously.
Mrs. Lincoln: Dear me, Sarah! what a dust you do kick up (coughs); you'll choke me to death.
Sarah (sweeping more gently): Excuse me, but you see, the dirt is all here, and I suppose the only way to get it out is to kick it up; but I'll try to be more careful.
Voice (behind scenes): Abe, Abe, O, Abe.