Lincoln funeral procession to the Capitol
Abraham Lincoln's funeral procession moves solemnly down Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington D.C., towards the U.S. Capitol, where his body will lie in state. Thousands of mourners line the streets, dr
Setting
Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington D.C., lined with thousands of mourners, leading to the U.S. Capitol where Lincoln's body will lie in state. The avenue is adorned with black crepe and American flags at half-mast.
Characters
Mary Todd Lincoln
primary
A middle-aged woman of slight build with delicate features, her face obscured by a black mourning veil. Her hands, clad in black gloves, tremble slightly as they rest in her lap. Her complexion is pale from grief and exhaustion, with dark circles visible beneath her eyes.
Union Soldier
secondary
A young man in his early 20s, lean but strong from military service, with sun-weathered skin and a freshly shaved face. His light blue eyes are red-rimmed from suppressed tears, and his jaw is clenched tightly. His posture is rigidly correct despite his emotional state.
Black Mourner
secondary
A freedman in his late 40s, with a wiry build and deep-set eyes that reflect years of hardship. His dark skin is weathered from outdoor labor, and his hands are calloused. He stands slightly hunched, as if still carrying invisible burdens.
Government Official
secondary
A middle-aged man with a gaunt face and graying sideburns, his posture rigid with bureaucratic formality. His sharp nose and deep-set eyes give him an air of weary authority. He walks with measured steps, his hands clasped behind his back.
Street Child
background
A scrawny boy of about 10 years, with sunken cheeks and dirt-smudged skin, his bare feet calloused from pavement. His light brown hair is tousled and slightly matted, with one lock perpetually falling over his forehead. His eyes are wide with a mix of awe and sorrow.
Dialog
Mary Todd Lincoln
Mon cher... how they loved you. Even now, the streets weep black crepe as if the very stones mourn.
Union Soldier
Ma'am... the President's horse... it's riderless. The boys can't bear to look at it.
Government Official
The arrangements at the Capitol Rotunda are complete. The late President shall lie in state beneath the... the unfinished dome.
Mary Todd Lincoln
That cursed theater! Had we stayed home that night... Oh Abraham, why did the Almighty will this?
Union Soldier
Steady, boys! Shoulders back! The President... the President would have us march proper.
Government Official
The floral tributes from Richmond arrived this morning. Even the conquered South sends... sends laurels.
Mary Todd Lincoln
Take me to him. Once more... before they seal the coffin forever.