NICOLAY [_To the Congressman._] Now, you've got it----! CONGRESSMAN [_Crestfallen._] Yes--I heard it---- LINCOLN [_Turning back to his desk, and examining his papers._] Good---- Bring in the next one, John! [_As_ NICOLAY _exits with the Congressman who continues to talk in loud tones, a sweet little girl of twelve slips by and reaches the President's desk unannounced. The President has taken his seat and is writing. While the President continues to write, the little girl slips close and watches him wistfully. He lifts his head, sees her, and smiles._] Why, what a wee girl--and you got in here all by yourself----? VIRGINIA I slipped in when no one was looking---- LINCOLN Did you? What did you do that for? VIRGINIA I was afraid they wouldn't let me in, if they knew what I wanted---- LINCOLN [_Tenderly._] And what _do_ you want? VIRGINIA If you please, sir--a pass to go through the lines to Virginia--my brother's there--he was shot in the last battle--and I want to see him. LINCOLN Of course, you do--and you shall too. [_He seizes his pen, writes a pass and hands it to her._] VIRGINIA [_Breathlessly._] Oh, thank you--thank you! LINCOLN [_Casually placing his hand on her head._] Of course, you're loyal----? [VIRGINIA'S _lips quiver, she hesitates, looks up into his face through dimmed eyes, and her slender body stiffens as she slowly speaks._] VIRGINIA Yes--loyal--with all my heart--to Virginia! [_The trembling little fingers hand the pass back as the tears roll down her cheeks. LINCOLN looks away to hide from her his own emotion, stoops and takes her hand in his. His voice is low and tender and full of feeling._] LINCOLN I know what it cost you to say that, child. You're a brave little girl! And I'll love you always for this glimpse you've given me of a great spirit and a great people. That's why I can't let the South go---- They can't leave this Union. We need them---- Now I can trust you----? VIRGINIA [_Eagerly._] Yes, sir! [NICOLAY _enters with a young mother and baby and hesitates at sight of the little girl._] LINCOLN Come on in, John--it's all right. I'm about through with this young lady---- [NICOLAY _brings the young mother to the desk and_ LINCOLN _takes_ VIRGINIA _down stage._] Come down here, dear, so old man Nicolay can't hear us--he mightn't understand. [_He sits on a chair and draws the girl close._]