Chapter 16

WASHINGTON: Mother, it is decided that I should go to sea, is it not?

MRS. WASHINGTON: Yes, George, we had consented to your going to sea but I would much rather have you go back to school and have a good education. According to these old Virginia days the oldest son in the family, when the father dies, receives a plantation and your brother, Laurence, has received a plantation on the Potomac.

WASHINGTON: Well, mother, if I give up my plans of going to sea and go back to school, what shall I do?

MRS. WASHINGTON: You will receive a plantation on the Rappahannock.

WASHINGTON: Well, I shall give up all my plans and go back to school and I will try to excel in all my work.

MRS. WASHINGTON: You must excel in both work and play and remember the Golden Rule--"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

(Several boys knock and enter--boys bow and speak to Mrs. Washington).

BOYS: How do you do, Mrs. Washington.

MRS. WASHINGTON: How do you do, boys.

FIRST BOY: George, we want you to come out and play with us.

SECOND BOY: Yes, we want you to be our captain.

THIRD BOY: We will take a walk in the woods.

FOURTH BOY: And maybe have a swim in the old swimming pool.

WASHINGTON: May I go out with the boys, mother?

MRS. WASHINGTON: Yes, George, but don't forget to come in before it gets too late.

_End of Act I._