War Finds A Way: Fairfield 1813

7/28/2019 War Finds A Way: Fairfield 1813

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War Finds A Way: Fairfield 1813

Characters:

Chief Tecumseh, 45Hostile American Soldier

Johanna Schnall, 13

Daniel, an Indian boy, 12

Ann Lisette Schnall, 7

Mathew Dolson, 13

Hannah Dolson, 13

Charlotte Procter, 11

Frances Procter, 10

Augusta Procter, 5

Johann Schnall, 59

General Henry Procter, 50

Christian Denke, 38

Voice, older English man

Margaret Schnall, 40

John Dolson, 41

Elisabeth Dolson, 30

Christian Gottlieb, an Indian

Angry Woman

General William Harrison, 40Commodore Oliver Perry, 28

Refugees

British soldiers

Kentuckians

1


2/72

VIGNETTE ONE

(TECUMSEH will appear SR and address the audience. Light and sound cues

should make it appear as if he is speaking around a fire.)

TECUMSEH

Brothers the white people came among us feeble, and now we have made them

strong, they wish to kill us, or drive us back, as they would wolves and panthers.

Brothers, the white men are not friends to the Indians: at first, they only asked for

land sufficient for a wigwam; now, nothing will satisfy them but the whole of our

hunting grounds, from the rising to the setting sun.

Brothers, the white men want more than our hunting grounds; they wish to kill our

warriors; they would even kill our old men, women and little ones

Brothers, many winters ago, there was no land; the sun did not rise and set: all

was darkness. The Great Spirit made all things. He gave the white people a

home beyond the great waters. He supplied these grounds with game, and gavethem to his red children; and he gave them strength and courage to defend them

Brothers, my people wish for peace; the red men all wish for peace; but where

the white people are, there is no peace for them, except it be the bosom of our

mother.

Brothers, the white men despise and cheat the Indians; they abuse and insult

them; they do not think the red men sufficiently good to live.

The red men have borne many and great injuries; they ought to suffer them no

longer. My people will not; they are determined on vengeance; they will drink the

blood of the white people

Brothers, my people are brave and numerous; but the white people are too

strong for them alone. I wish you to take up the tomahawk with them. If we all

unite, we will cause the rivers to stain the great waters with their blood

Brothers, if you do not unite with us, they will first destroy us, and then you will be

an easy prey to them. They have destroyed many nations of red men because

they were not united, because they were not friends to each other.

Brothers, the white people send runners amongst us; they wish to make us

enemies that they may sweep over and desolate our hunting grounds, like

devastating winds, or rushing waters.

Brothers, we must be united; we must smoke the same pipe; we must fight eachother's battles; and more than all, we must love the Great Spirit; he is for us; he

will destroy our enemies, and make all his red children happy."

(HOSTILE AMERICAN SOLDIER is seen SL. He is also speaking to a crowd and

we hear sounds to that effect.)

2


3/72

HOSTILE AMERICAN SOLDIER

I dont have to remind any of you about the shocking events of January 23rd of

this year. Almost 400 of our fine Kentucky riflemen were killed near the Raisin

River. Those 400 patriots surrendered their lives on the battlefield - they died a

heros death in a just cause, but then, in the vilest, most contemptible act of

savagery I have ever bore witness to, dozens of our wounded were massacred

by the Indians left to guard them by the villainous British General Procter. He

abandoned those men to their fate and hes as guilty as if hed murdered them

hisself. Men, as God is my witness, I will hunt down that dog and all the rest of

those bloodthirsty savages if its the last thing I do and I beg you to join me. Join

me men and avenge your slain brothers! Remember the River Raisin! Remember

the River Raisin! Remember the River Raisin! (The lights fade on HOSTILE

AMERICAN SOLDIER and come up on the CHILDRENS CHOIR CS)

CHOIR ONE (Children)Blessd Are The Pure In Heart

Blessd are the pure in heart,

For they shall see our God;

The secret of the Lord is theirs,

Their heart is in Christs abode.

The Lord, who left the heavens,

Our life and peace to bring,

To dwell in lowliness with men,

Their pattern and their King.

He to the lowly soul

Doth still Himself impart,

And for His dwelling and His throne

Chooseth the pure in heart.

Lord, we Thy presence seek;

May ours this blessing be;Give us a pure and lowly heart,

A temple meet for thee.

3


4/72

I ia! Sunday, October 3, 1813Setting: Outside the Schnall house.(JOHANNA, ANN LISETTE, HANNAH,

MATHEW and DANIEL are having a tea party).

JOHANNA

Absolutely not. I strictly forbid it.

DANIEL

You cant tell me what to do. Youre not my real mother.

JOHANNA

In this game, Im the mother and Mathews the father (she smiles coyly at

Mathew), so that makes you and Ann and Hannah the children. And if youre not

careful, Ill send you all to bed early, with no tea.

ANN LISETTE

But I dont want to go to bed early, especially without my tea.

JOHANNA

Then you must behave yourself. And you must tell your brother Daniel that he

simply cannot go.

ANN LISETTE

(To DANIEL) You simply cannot go.

DANIEL

I dont like this game anymore. Its silly.

MATHEW

I agree and I dont know why you wont let Daniel go anyway. Its his decision.

DANIEL

It is my decision. I will go and join my brother tonight.

HANNAH

But what about your mother? (Looks furtively at JOHANNA). Your real mother I

mean. Dont you think shell be scared. I mean, Id be scared... (she likes him). If

I was your mother, I mean.

4


5/72

DANIEL

Everybodys scared. I heard my father say were all leaving soon, so if Im going

to join my brother, I have to go tonight.

JOHANNA

Well if your people leave, what would be the point in us staying? All those empty

houses. Hardly anybody left for school and church. You cant leave. I simply

forbid it.

HANNAH

Oh Johanna, stop saying that. As if its up to you anyway.

JOHANNA

But nobody has to leave. The British soldiers will protect us all, including the

brethren.

ANN LISETTE

Protect us from what?

JOHANNA

Nothing. This is just silly grown-up talk. Drink your tea before it gets cold.

ANN LISETTE

But it already is cold, and so am I.

JOHANNA

Mother told you to wear a hat and you didnt, so stop complaining.

DANIEL

Im leaving tonight. As soon as its dark.

MATHEW

(Sensing an adventure) Ill go with you.

HANNAH

Mathew!

MATHEW

Itll be fine. I have my knife and I ll...

5


6/72

DANIEL

You cant come with me.

MATHEW

Why not?

DANIEL

Youre not an Indian, thats why.

MATHEW

But Im a good fighter. Even Thomas says so.

DANIEL

I know, but Im going to join Chief Tecumseh and his warriors. Youd be the only

white boy.

MATHEW

(Indignantly) Im not a boy, Im a man! And I can fight as good as anyone.

(HANNAH snickers and MATHEW swats her)

JOHANNA

Stop this foolishness at once. Nobody is going anywhere.

DANIEL

Im going and Im going tonight.

MATHEW

Maybe Ill join the British soldiers. The Americans might try and steal our land as

well. (To DANIEL)

JOHANNA

My father says theres plenty of land for everyone and that nobody should be

fighting.

DANIEL

Your father has to say that. Hes a missionary - they never want anyone to fight,

or have any fun!

JOHANNA

Thats not true! Were having fun now arent we?

6


7/72

MATHEW

Speak for yourself.

HANNAH

Oh, never mind. What does your father say about this Daniel?

DANIEL

He doesnt say much. My mother was crying when Thomas left, but my father

didnt say anything. I think hes proud that Thomas wants to fight to protect Indian

land. I think hed like to join Chief Tecumseh and his warriors too, but my mother

wont let him. She says hes too old and he has too much work to do.

JOHANNA

But your land and your home are here Daniel. Nobodys going to steal them fromyou.

MATHEW

Unless the Americans get this far. They wont believe the brethren own their

houses.

JOHANNA

But, you dont think the Americans could... win, do you?

MATHEW

Didnt you see all those sick and wounded soldiers they put in the church and the

school? They didnt look like theydbe much use in a fight. No, if anything

happens here, its going to be up to me and my father to protect everyone. And

you too Daniel, if you stay.

DANIEL

Im not staying.

HANNAHReally Mathew. Im quite sure if you came face to face with an American soldier

with a musket in his hands, youd wet your trousers.

MATHEW

I would not!

7


8/72

HANNAH

Would too.

MATHEW

Would not! (Yanks HANNAHs hair and then smacks DANIEL on the arm) Lets

go get some apples! (The boys rush off stage).

HANNAH

What if Daniel runs away and the Americans kill him?

JOHANNA

They wouldnt do that. Hes just a boy.

HANNAH

The Americans dont care who they kill if its an Indian. I heard my father talkingto Mr. Sherman about what they do and its... its just horrible. (Starts sobbing) I

cant bear to think about it.

JOHANNA

Stop your sniffling. Here come those annoying Procter girls I was telling you

about.

(CHARLOTTE, AUGUSTA and FRANCES PROCTER enter)

CHARLOTTE

Whats shecrying about? (Indicates HANNAH)

JOHANNA

Thats none of your business.

CHARLOTTE

Of course its my business. My papa is in charge here now and he wants to know

everything thats going on.

JOHANNA

Your father is not in charge. My father is in charge of this mission and all the

people in it - including you, if you must know.

8


9/72

CHARLOTTE

He is not. My papa is Major General Henry Procter and hes in charge of

everything.

JOHANNA

My father is a man of God and that beats a general any day, major or minor!

(HANNAH titters)

CHARLOTTE

My papas a hero. He helped General Brock at Fort Detroit. Tell them Frances.

FRANCES

He did.

CHARLOTTESee, I told you.

(MATHEW returns with a few apples)

JOHANNA

Wheres Daniel?

MATHEW

Hes gone.

CHARLOTTE

That little Indian boy youre always playing with? (To MATHEW and HANNAH)

Wheres he gone? And who are you?

JOHANNA

(Ignoring CHARLOTTE) Why didnt you stop him?

MATHEW

I tried to, but you know hes quicker than me. He

ll be back before nightfall I

m

sure.

CHARLOTTE

(More insistently.) Where did Daniel go? (Looks around, but nobody answers

her.) I insist that you tell me! If you dont Im going to tell Mama and then shell tell

Papa and...

9


10/72

JOHANNA

Hes run off to join with Chief Tecumseh. Im going to find my father so he can go

and bring Daniel back. (She exits.)

ANN LISETTE

May I have my apple now Mathew?

MATHEW

Youll have to share with these girls. (He pulls his knife out and begins cutting

apples)

ANN LISETTE

All right.

MATHEW

(To CHARLOTTE) Your mothers looking for you.

CHARLOTTE

How do you know who we are?

MATHEW

Its not hard to figure out.

FRANCES

Why?

MATHEW

Look at your dresses. None of the other girls around here have dresses like that.

Do they Hannah?

HANNAH

(Wistfully) No, I suppose not.

FRANCES

(By way of apology) This used to be Charlottes dress, but now shes too fat for it.

CHARLOTTE

(Smacks her) Frances! She means Im too tall for it.

10


11/72

CHARLOTTE

(To HANNAH) You two look alike. Is he your brother?

HANNAH

Yes, unfortunately.

CHARLOTTE

How old is he?

MATHEW

Why dont you ask me? Im sitting right here.

CHARLOTTE

Fine. How old are you?

MATHEW

Thirteen.

CHARLOTTE

(To HANNAH) And how old are you?

HANNAH

Thirteen.

CHARLOTTE

(Eyes them dubiously). You cant both be 13.

MATHEW

Oh yes we can. (He and HANNAH exchange a knowing smile.) Were twins.

FRANCES

I wish I had a twin. Id make her take all my baths - and go to school for me!

CHARLOTTEIt doesnt work like that.

(From a distance we hear a mans voice calling)

SCHNALL

Johanna! Ann Lisette!

11


12/72

ANN LISETTE

Thats my father. Quick, hide the apples!

CHARLOTTE

Why?

ANN LISETTE

Were not supposed to take them without asking!

(Everybody hides their pieces of apples and MATHEW puts away his knife)

SCHNALL

(Entering the scene) Ann Lisette, there you are. Wheres your sister?

MATHEWShe went to find you sir.

SCHNALL

Oh?

MATHEW

(Nervously) Yes, about Daniel.

SCHNALL

What about Daniel?

MATHEW

He uh...

ANN LISETTE

Hes run away...

SCHNALL

Run away?

ANN LISETTE

To join the Indians. (Helpfully) And Mathews going to join the army.

MATHEW

Hush.

12


13/72

SCHNALL

I dont want to hear any more of this nonsense. There is trouble enough here

without worrying about children running off. I am going to find Daniel.

MATHEW

Sir, I know which way he headed.

SCHNALL

You will come with me. (Looks at PROCTER girls) And you girls, your mother is

looking for you. Go now.

HANNAH

What about me?

SCHNALL

You stay here and wait for Johanna. Lets just pray to the Saviour its not too late

to find Daniel. Is it not bad enough Thomas has run off? (He exits with MATHEW)

HANNAH

(To the PROCTER girls) Didnt you hear Brother Schnall? Youd better go find

your mother.

CHARLOTTE

I think its silly hes called Brother Schnall.

HANNAH

(Sharply) Youre a very rude girl. All the Moravians are called Brother or Sister.

They believe that all people are brothers and sisters under God.

CHARLOTTE

I am not a rude girl and I think it s just stupid to believe that. Everybody knows

that Indians arent the same as white people.

HANNAH

That may be, but that doesnt mean God doesnt love them the same. You have

nicer dresses than me, but Im sure God doesnt love you more because of it.

13


14/72

CHARLOTTE

Thats not the same thing at all. Its whats underneath our clothes that matters

and were white underneath, both of us. Thats why God loves us more than He

does the Indians.

HANNAH

Why, thats the stupidest thing Ive ever heard Charlotte Procter and if you knew

any better you wouldnt go around talking about what God thinks about things.

CHARLOTTE

(Angrily) Indians are savages who murder babies and children and if you dont

believe that, then I feel sorry for you, because you could just as easily wake up

with your throat cut by those Indians as not. Indians can t be trusted at all. Thats

what Mama says.

ANN LISETTE

Are the brethren going to kill us?

HANNAH

Of course not. Theyre our friends. (To CHARLOTTE) Youd better watch what

you say. All of the Indians here are good Christians and peaceful. Why, some of

them have seen their own families murdered by the Americans - and women and

children - so dont you dare come around here and talk about things you dont

know anything about!

FRANCES

Are the Americans going to kill us?

CHARLOTTE

Dont be so silly Frances. Of course the Americans wont kill us. Or the Indians

for that matter. Papa will make sure that doesnt happen.

JOHANNA

(Returning) I couldnt find my father.

HANNAH

He was just here. He and Mathew have gone to search for Daniel. He wants us

to wait here. (She looks at the PROCTER girls) And he wants you to go to your

mother.

14


15/72

FRANCES

Youre all scaring me. I want Mama. (She exits, followed by her sisters)

HANNAH

Do you think theyll find Daniel?

JOHANNA

I hope so. Im afraid hell get killed if he joins Chief Tecumseh. My father has

been telling the Indians for a long time not to leave here, but a few already have.

HANNAH

I dont know why anybody would want to leave here.

JOHANNA

I dont think they really do, but the other Indians tell them if they don t join ChiefTecumseh, theyre not being loyal. He believes if all the Indians join together they

can keep their land.

HANNAH

Maybe they can.

JOHANNA

I dont know if theres enough Indians in the world for that to happen. I just hope

they find Daniel.

HANNAH

Me too.

(SCHNALL and MATHEW return)

JOHANNA

Wheres Daniel?

SCHNALLWe couldnt find him.

JOHANNA

Then Im going to go... (starts to leave)

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16/72

SCHNALL

(Grabs her) No, youre not. Nobody else is leaving here. Its not safe. All of you

go inside now.

JOHANNA

But father... (she begins to cry)

SCHNALL

I said go inside, and take your sister. (The girls exit)

JOHANNA

Yes Father.

16


17/72

VIGNETTE TWO

(TECUMSEH and PROCTER are facing each other, SR.)

TECUMSEH

Listen! You told us to bring forward our families to this place - we did so and you

promised to take care of them, and that they should want for nothing, while the

men would go and fight the enemy - that we were not to trouble ourselves with

the enemys garrisons - that we knew nothing about them, and that our father

would attend to that part of the business. You also told your red children that you

would take good care of their garrison here, which made our hearts glad... You

always told us to remain here and take care of our lands; it made our hearts glad

to hear that was your wish.

Our great Father, the king, is the head, and you represent him. You always told

us you would never draw your foot off British ground; but now, Father, we see

you are drawing back and we are sorry to see our Father doing so without seeingthe enemy.

PROCTER

Great chief, whether you choose to believe it or not, the loss of our fleet has been

confirmed to my satisfaction. We are no longer in control of the Lake Erie and we

must abandon Amherstburg or risk failure altogether. I understand your anger but

if we are to have any hope of repelling the enemy, we must fall back and regroup.

But take my word, this measure is but temporary. My determination is to retreat to

the Thames and no further.

TECUMSEH

We must compare our Fathers conduct to a fat animal, that carries its tail upon

its back, but when affrighted, it drops it between its legs and runs off. Father! You

have got the arms and ammunition which our great Father sent for his red

children. If you have any idea of going away, give them to us, and you may go in

welcome for us. Our lives are in the hands of the Great Spirit. We are determined

to defend our lands, and if it is his will, we wish to leave our bones upon them.

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18/72

I ib! Sunday, October 3, 1813SCHNALL

(Johann sits down for a moment of contemplation). Dear God, what are we to

do? Twenty years of bringing our Indians the word of Jesus Christ, teaching themwhite mens ways so they may survive in their new world. And now, would You

see all that we have built destroyed?

DENKE

(Who has overheard part of this) To everything there is a season, and a time to

every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to

plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted... There is a time to love, and a

time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. We have had our time of peace

Im afraid.

SCHNALL

I fear you are right Brother Denke. What is the word out there?

DENKE

It is not good Brother Schnall. The Indians do not trust General Procter. They are

worried he will not keep his word to them and will retreat even further. The

general tells me he plans to stand at Dover where he believes the British and the

Indians will have the strongest advantage.

SCHNALL

Do you think hes right?

DENKE

He may well be. He says even a few resolute men can hold off an enemy if there

are buildings well-fortified. Now that all his Indians have arrived he has a large

force and will no doubt soon destroy the bridges they arrived on.

SCHNALL

Then what is he doing here?

DENKE

He wishes to house the British sick and wounded here, as well as the women

and children, far from the fight. I believe he also intends to establish a

communications route between Dover and Delaware with Fairfield in between.

18


19/72

SCHNALL

And what does that mean for our people?

DENKE

I do not know.

SCHNALL

Our Daniel has left to join his brother and Tecumseh.

DENKE

Oh dear God. Thomas, and now Daniel? Brother Schnall, have we so truly failed

in our mission?

SCHNALL

With such uncertainty, we cannot dwell on those we have lost. We must dowhatever we can to save the rest.

DENKE

You would abandon Daniel so easily?

SCHNALL

He is in Gods hands now. I pray he will be protected, that is all I can do. I must

think also of all the other brethren. If the time comes, you must lead our Indians

from this place. They will not be safe here should war find its way to our

doorstep. The Americans are not so far away as to be of no concern, and the

Kentuckians among them have long memories. If the British cannot hold their

ground, the Americans will find us and hold the brethren to account for their

suffering.

DENKE

Our Indians are children of God. They are accountable only to Him.

SCHNALL

Where you look at our Indians and see the spirit of our Saviour, the Americanswill see only savages who killed their people. To them, one red skin is the same

as another. They care not for the heart that beats inside.

DENKE

If you would have me lead our brethren away from this place, away from our

home, that is what I shall do.

19


20/72

SCHNALL

Thank you Brother Denke. Now go, tell Sister Denke you may have to leave soon

and bundle your belongings. If the time comes, your departure must be swift.

DENKE

Yes Brother Schnall. Our belongings are already halfway out the door. Since Mrs.

Procter and her children have moved in, there is not much room for our

belongings, or for us. She is a woman with at least one gown for every occasion

and each child has its own tiny trunk as well.

SCHNALL

(Smiles) Let us hope they do not have occasion to leave in haste! Now, Brother

Denke, remember always the purpose of our mission and I know you will not fail

the brethren. We are their protectors, that is Gods purpose for us.

DENKE

Fear not, Brother Schnall. I will protect them.

SCHNALL

(Meaningfully) But if you cannot, dear brother, I implore you not to abandon them.

Stay with them.

DENKE

I will not abandon them. If the Lord wills it, my dying breath will be shared with

my Indian brothers and sisters.

SCHNALL

(Embraces CHRISTIAN) Thank you my good friend. (Denke exits as PROCTER

enters)

PROCTER

Good evening Mr. Schnall.

SCHNALLGeneral.

PROCTER

I apologize for any inconvenience our people may be putting you through.

20


21/72

SCHNALL

If it is Gods will that we provide shelter for your soldiers, we are happy to do so,

and for your women and children also. Brother Denke tells me you plan to take a

stand at Dover.

PROCTER

Yes, I believe it to be highly defensible and my men are strengthening it further

even as we speak.

SCHNALL

Are you confident you will hold off the Americans at Dover? Our people are very

worried and some believe a British loss to be...

PROCTER

Yes?

SCHNALL

Inevitable.

PROCTER

Nonsense. It is true England has her hands full at home, but we are not so ill-

equipped as to be ineffective. Tomorrow I shall return there, but I will leave

behind an engineer to make fortifications here.

SCHNALL

Here?

PROCTER

Even the most confident of generals knows it is prudent to anticipate disaster

even where the prospect seems most unlikely.

SCHNALL

You would bring the battle here?

PROCTER

Of course not. That would be utter folly. This place is indefensible and I would

have little chance of enticing the Indians to retreat this far back. No, we shall

make our stand at Dover and once the Americans are run off, establish a corridor

running to the east through here.

21


22/72

SCHNALL

Thus far we have been happy to share what we have with you and your people,

but if there are long-term plans...

PROCTER

His Majesty is most grateful for your sacrifices.

SCHNALL

Will King George ensure that we are adequately compensated for our sacrifices?

PROCTER

(Chuckling) If His Majesty were to compensate everyone fully for their sacrifices,

they would not be sacrifices at all, would they? (JOHANN remains silent) But not

to worry my good man, your people will receive some compensation.

SCHNALL

(Pulls a piece of paper out of his pocket) I have begun to itemize...

PROCTER

Not tonight. I must return to Mrs. Procter and say good night to my children.

SCHNALL

It must be a worry for you having your family here and war so nearby.

PROCTER

All the more reason to stand and fight. You have no doubt heard the atrocities

committed by the Americans in the name of revenge. And my name especially is

a frequent visitor to their tongues.

SCHNALL

I have done more than hear of these things. I have seen terrible acts of violence

with my own eyes. But of course, the British are no strangers to brutality either.

PROCTERIn times of war, we must all do things we will later regret. But tell me Mr. Schnall,

is there anything youwouldnt do to protect your own family?

SCHNALL

I would not kill.

22


23/72

PROCTER

You would not kill?

SCHNALL

I would not.

PROCTER

You would see your wife and daughters taken, your sons mutilated beyond

recognition and you would do nothing?

SCHNALL

I will do everything in my power to protect my family, but that is the one thing I will

not, cannot.

PROCTERSir, no man knows what he is capable of until he has met death in the face and

tasted fear on his tongue. I know there is no greater fear than the image of ones

own child split in half by an American sword or roasted over an Indian flame.

SCHNALL

Pray God that I shall never bear witness to such horrors in my own family, for my

Saviour forbids me to take a life. All life is precious and is His greatest gift.

PROCTER

If all men believed as you do, there would be no room in this world for men like

myself.

SCHNALL

A world of peace would find a home for every man.

PROCTER

If that were to happen I would pluck my family from this godforsaken land and

sail back to England with nary a backward glance. But that will never happen.

Man is a creature of war Mr. Schnall. Its in his nature, his deepest, darkest

nature.

23


24/72

VIGNETTE THREE

(We see the back of PROCTER, SR, as the charges against him during his court

martial are read)

VOICE

December 21, 1814, Montreal, Lower Canada. The charges against him are as

follows. First, that Major-General Procter, being entrusted with the command of

the right division of the army serving in the Canadas, and the retreat of the said

division from the western parts of Upper Canada having become unavoidable

from the loss of the fleet on Lake Erie, on September 10, 1813, did not,

immediately make the military arrangements best calculated for promptly

effecting such retreat, exposing them to be attacked by a force far superior to

them. Second, that Major-General Procter, after commencing the retreat of the

division on September 27, did not use due expedition, or take the proper

measures for conducting the retreat, having encumbered the division with largequantities of useless baggage, having unnecessarily halted the troops for several

whole days, and having omitted to destroy the bridges over which the enemy

would be obliged to pass.

CHOIR TWO (Children - optional)

Jesus, Still Lead On

Jesus, still lead on, till our rest be won,

And, although the way be cheerless,

We will follow calm and fearless,

Guide us by Thy hand to our fatherland.

If the way be drear, if the foe be near,

Let no faithless fears oertake us,

Let not faith and hope forsake us,

For through many a woe to our home we go.

When we seek relief from a long felt grief;

When temptations come alluring,Make us patient and enduring;

Show us that bright shore where we weep no more.

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I ii! Monday, October 4, 1813Setting: Inside the Schnall house.(JOHANNA, ANN LISETTE, HANNAH,

CHARLOTTE and FRANCES PROCTER are tearing linens into bandages)

HANNAH

How many bandages do you think well need?

JOHANNA

I dont know. A lot I think. Mother said to keep going until we run out of material.

HANNAH

(Surveys the pile of cloth still in front of them) That could be a long time.

JOHANNAIt might take even longer than that. Mother has gone to the other women to

collect as many linens as they can part with.

CHARLOTTE

My mama has a whole trunkful of bed linens.

HANNAH

Wonderful... even more work!

FRANCES

Why do we need so many?

JOHANNA

Father says there might be fighting soon and Fairfield is the only place people

might come for help. We have to be ready.

HANNAH

Daniels still out there.

JOHANNA

And every day, more and more people are passing this way. Mother says theyre

running away from the Americans, so the Americans must be coming closer.

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CHARLOTTE

My papa wont let them come this far. His soldiers will stop the Americans long

before they come here.

HANNAH

If youre so sure of that, why are you helping with the bandages?

CHARLOTTE

Theres not much else to do is there? Besides, Mama is in a bit of a temper. She

doesnt like the house were in...

JOHANNA

Why, the Denkes homes is one of the nicest in the village. It has glass windows

and beautiful embroidered curtains...

CHARLOTTE

Yes, but its much smaller than the home we used to live in, and the Denkes are

still there so its very crowded and we have to sleep on the floor...

JOHANNA

That all sounds terribly ungrateful to me. If anybody has a right to complain, I

think its Brother and Sister Denke, but they would never. Nor would anybody

else in this town whos made room for the soldiers andfed them.

CHARLOTTE

Mama says weve already spent enough time here...

FRANCES

... among the heathens.

JOHANNA

Why Charlotte and Frances Procter, your mother is a very ignorant woman

indeed! Our Indians are not heathens!

CHARLOTTE

Our mother is notignorant and she said it doesnt matter whether your Indians

say theyre Christians or not, they could still murder you in your bed.

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HANNAH

Then you should be doubly grateful to be sleeping on the floor!

JOHANNA

Charlotte, thats the most ridiculous thing Ive ever heard! Your mother...

MARGARET

(She enters carrying a large armful of sheets. ELISABETH is with her). Now

whats all this noise about girls? When your father said there could be fighting

going on, I didnt expect he meant inside my very own kitchen!

JOHANNA

But Mother, Charlotte said...

MARGARETTis no matter to me what Charlottes mother said or didnt say. Im only thinking

about how many bandages youre creating and Im sure the good Lord above

would far rather have you working together than bickering. (To CHARLOTTE and

FRANCES) Now you girls, run and catch up with your mother. But take a couple

of those baskets to the church first. Theyve run right out of clean bandages

there. (CHARLOTTE and FRANCES exit).

JOHANNA

Mother, has anyone seen Daniel?

MARGARET

Nobodys seen hide nor hair of the lad, but now that the brethren have moved

into the woods, perhaps theyll find him.

JOHANNA

I dont know why they left anyway. Charlotte and Frances say their father will

protect us all from the Americans.

MARGARETIm sure the general will do his best, but no one but the good Lord Himself knows

what will happen and the brethren know that far better than anyone. Im sure

theyre hoping to return in a day or two once things settle down.

HANNAH

Do you think things willsettle down Sister Schnall?

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MARGARET

All we can do is pray that is what God wills. In the meantime, you two girls go into

the other room to finish those bandages and Ann Lisette, I want you to take this

bread and milk to the church for poultices. Mrs. Dolson and I are still busy

preparing food and I dont want any more chatter. There is much to be done.

(ANN LISETTE exits)

JOHANNA

Yes mother. (She and HANNAH move into the cabins main room).

MARGARET

Well Elisabeth, lets see what more we can do here. (They begin gathering

bowls, kettles etc. SCHNALL, DOLSON and MATHEW arrive. It is clear they

have grim news). Dear God, what is it?

SCHNALL

There has been fighting...

MARGARET

Please, not our Indians.

SCHNALL

No, pray God they are still safe. The fighting was at the Forks.

MARGARET

The Forks? Then they are coming this way?

DOLSON

It would appear so. General Procter found out this morning that orders had been

given to pull his men back from Dover.

MARGARET

But why?

DOLSON

Nobody seems to know why, but Procter was almost apoplectic when he heard

the news. He wasnt prepared to fight at Chatham, but the Indians refused to go

further. Even the British soldiers wanted to take a stand there. Theyre bone tired

and sick of marching, but Procter agreed only to leave a handful of men there.

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SCHNALL

The British are moving this way and the Americans will not be far behind them.

MARGARET

My God.

ELISABETH

John, if the Americans are coming, we must leave here at once! I am going to

fetch the children...

DOLSON

Wait, wait. Where would you have us go? If the Americans are coming this way,

then they could be at our place. We can t go back until we know whats

happening. Were as safe here as anywhere.

ELISABETH

No John. I wont risk the childrens lives. We must leave at once! We can go to

my sisters...

DOLSON

No, we cannot go rushing blindly off at the first hint of fighting.

MARGARET

To be fair Mr. Dolson, tis more than a hint.

SCHNALL

Margaret, hush! This is none of our business.

MARGARET

Is it not? Perhaps Elisabeth is right. Tis one thing to risk our own lives, but the

children... well, that is a different matter all together.

SCHNALLThe children - and all of us, are in no immediate danger...

ELISABETH

But we cant know that for certain!

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DOLSON

Look, the general...

ELISABETH

The general... the general. Im tired of hearing about the general! Hes only one

man. Just what do you think he can do with his own army so run down they can

barely march and Indians who think hes betrayed them?

JOHN

Im not saying we wont have to leave. Im just saying, we dont need to leave at

this moment.

ELISABETH

And what happens if that moment passes John and were trapped here? What do

we do then?

PROCTER

(Bursts onto the scene with two British soldiers) Schnall! Schnall!

SCHNALL

Yes Major.

PROCTER

I trust you have heard the news of the Forks.

SCHNALL

We have sir. It is most unfortunate.

PROCTER

My men are being moved about like chess pieces and now they are far in

advance of our supplies, which remain at Dover. Even worse, the bridges behind

them have not been destroyed.

SCHNALLThe bridges have not been destroyed?

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PROCTER

The last of the Indians have only recently crossed and now due to this further

retreat, I am charged to face the enemy at a place not of my choosing and which

cannot, in my estimation, be well fortified in less than three days.

DOLSON

What can we do General?

ELISABETH

Should we leave General?

DOLSON

Elisabeth, please.

PROCTERMrs. Dolson, I understand your concern and you may yet have reason for flight.

However, I have scouted a position two miles west of this village where we might

have some chance of facing the enemy on our terms. Our right front will be

protected by a morass, and a thick wood. Our left will rest on the river. I shall

move the six-pounder there to support the left flank. The cannon-fire should be

enough to send the enemy running from the fight. And, it will be the Indians task

to turn the enemys left flank and get in rear of them, further hastening the

Americans departure.

SCHNALL

Do you honestly believe this will work?

PROCTER

If the six-pounder is used to best effect, we have some fair chance of success.

The loss of so many Indians today makes the weapon even more crucial to our

cause. Even Tecumsehs strong words were not enough to convince all the

Indians to remain with us. We have made too many promises we could not, or

would not keep. Now they have lost a dozen men today and for what? The

Indians have only to look at the troops, their uniforms tattered, their spirits brokenand their bellies rarely full to confirm their worst suspicions. Mr. Dolson, you know

this land and the route between here and Chatham well. I wonder if you might

accompany us and help survey the land.

DOLSON

Certainly General. I will join you shortly.

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ELISABETH

(Tearfully) John...

PROCTER

Thank you Mr. Dolson. Please Mrs. Dolson, try not to worry. We will do nothing

less than our best to ensure that your family and all those here, are afforded all

the protection His Majesty can offer. (PROCTER and his soldiers exit).

MARGARET

Johann, the general said a dozen Indians were killed and we still have not had

any news about Daniel or Thomas.

SCHNALL

We have not heard there were any boys among the dead, but there were three

Americans killed which will only strengthen General Harrisons resolve.

DOLSON

And the Kentuckians will be desperate for more Indian blood.

MATHEW

The Americans had two six-pounders and thats what killed the Indians, and

worst of all...

MARGARET

Worst of all what?

MATHEW

Some people are saying Tecumseh was wounded in the attack.

ELISABETH

If anything happens to him, it will be devastating to the Indians.

JOHANNA

Father, what is happening?

JOHANN

You girls go back to the other room.

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MARGARET

Let them stay Johann. If the war is coming to Fairfield, they have as much right

as anyone to know about it. And what of the brethren? Is there any news of

them?

SCHNALL

Yes, they are six miles upstream, hopefully well out of harms way.

ELISABETH

Perhaps we can send the children there. I dont care what the general says. Its

not safe here.

MATHEW

Im not a child Mother. I want to stay.

SCHNALL

I want the four of you to go and collect as much straw as you can and take it to

the church.

HANNAH

What do they need the straw for?

MATHEW

To soak all the blood up!

ELISABETH

Mathew!

MATHEW

But, its true...

MARGARET

And stop by the Denkes house and bring as many baskets of food as you can

carry.

JOHANNA

Well go at once. (The children depart).

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DOLSON

The Indians are safe for now, but if Colonel Johnson and his Kentuckians find

them...

SCHNALL

Though our Indians had nothing to do with the massacre at the River Raisin, the

Kentuckians wouldnt hesitate to attack them, and anyone who was with them.

DOLSON

We cant trust General Harrison to control Colonel Johnsons men if they find the

brethren. Its settled Elisabeth, the children must stay here. There is no other

choice. Our path home is far too dangerous now.

SCHNALL

We are happy to have you and your family with us Mr. Dolson. We can neverrepay you for all you and your family have done for us.

DOLSON

Please Brother Schnall. My father considered you all dear friends, as do

Elisabeth and I. I will leave now to assist General Procter.

MATHEW

Father, may I...

DOLSON

You will stay here and do what you can to help. (To the SCHNALLS) My advice to

you my dear friends is to prepare to depart quickly if necessary. Elisabeth, if it

comes to that, do what you must. Dont worry about me. I will find you.

ELISABETH

But John, I dont know what Ill do if...

DOLSON

Nothings going to happen to me. Now, stop worrying about things that might

never happen and start thinking about what you know will happen - like hungry

bellies! (He kisses ELISABETH on the cheek and departs).

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MARGARET

Hes right. Elisabeth, you and I will do our best to feed as many as we can. (To

ELISABETH) Work is always the surest remedy to worry.

(The girls return with baskets of apples. ANN LISETTE is crying.)

MARGARET

Ann Lisette, whats the matter?

JOHANNA

A lady snatched three apples right out of her basket.

MARGARET

Well lets not cry over that. Lets just be grateful she only took three. She didnt

know shed only to ask and the apples would have been hers.

SCHNALL

What is still left in the Denkes house?

JOHANNA

There are two large sacks of flour, and some vegetables.

SCHNALL

All right. I will go and fetch the flour. Mathew, you will come with me?

MATHEW

Yes sir. (They exit).

MARGARET

Johanna I want you and Hannah go out to the ovens and collect the bread.

Lisette, you will stay here. (JOHANNA and HANNAH exit the house. The lights

fade on the house and stay on the girls as they make their way to an oven).

HANNAHAre you scared?

JOHANNA

A little bit. Are you?

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HANNAH

I wasnt before, but I am now.

JOHANNA

(She begins taking bread out of the oven). Mother has been baking bread all day.

Ive never seen so much bread in my life.

HANNAH

If more and more people keep coming here, it wont last very long.

JOHANNA

I suppose not.

(The Procter girls arrive)

CHARLOTTE

Hello. What are you doing?

JOHANNA

Gathering up some bread.

FRANCES

That looks very good. We just had soup and dried beef for our tea.

JOHANNA

You should be grateful you had that. A lot of these people havent had anything to

eat all day.

CHARLOTTE

We are grateful. She didnt mean anything by it, did you Frances?

FRANCES

(Slightly sniffly) No. Mama was crying.

CHARLOTTE

I heard her tell one of the officers we might never see Papa again. (JOHANNA

and HANNAH exchange glances).

FRANCES

(Begins crying in earnest) But I dont want Papa to die.

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CHARLOTTE

Hes not going to die silly. Now go back and find Mama, and make sure you don t

talk to strangers.

FRANCES

But, theyre all strangers... (she sniffles again)

JOHANNA

(Hands her a loaf of bread) Here, take this to your mama.

CHARLOTTE

(Hugs JOHANNA) Thank you. (She exits with FRANCES)

HANNAH

I used to think it would be exciting to be in a war, like a kind of adventure. Butnow that its here, I dont think its exciting at all. Its just scary.

JOHANNA

I know.

MARGARET

(Calling from inside the house) Johanna! Bring in the bread!

JOHANNA

Coming! (She and HANNAH head back to the house, where the lights go up

again).

MARGARET

This is no time to be dilly-dallying. Now put those loaves under the table with the

rest of them and help Mrs. Dolson with that dough. There should still be enough

heat in the oven to do one more batch tonight. We ll collect them in the morning.

MATHEW

(Bursting into the room with a large sack of flour) Ive just heard that Tecumseh

and the British are camped at Mr. Shermans farm. Mother, may I...

ELISABETH

You may not. I wont have you getting in the way at the Sherman s, and theres

plenty to be done here.

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MATHEW

But Mother, if I take one of the horses I could be back...

ELISABETH

I said no Mathew. It isnt safe and we need you here. And that is the end of it.

Where is Brother Schnall?

MATHEW

Hes talking with some of the people. Please may I just ride over for a quick look?

ELISABETH

No, you may not, and if youre so anxious to be doing something, you can go

outside and cut some firewood.

(MATHEW storms out)

HANNAH

Mother, if we finish all of our chores, maybe we could take the wagon...

ELISABETH

You most certainly can not.

HANNAH

Im just worried that if you dont let him go, Mathew will ride off on his own and

well never see him again, just like Daniel. (begins to cry)

ELISABETH

(Goes to door and shouts for MATHEW, who rushes in). Mathew Dolson.

MATHEW

Yes Mother.

ELISABETH

Your sister is worried youre going to do something foolish, like ride off alone to

the Shermans house. I want you to tell her you wouldnt dream of doing

something so foolish.

MATHEW

(Glares at HANNAH)But Mother...

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ELISABETH

(Takes some pity on him). Mathew, there arent too many men left here now, and

we might need you here. Now go finish cutting that wood.

MATHEW

Yes maam! (He exits)

MARGARET

Well, the British have certainly chosen a fine spot to spend the night anyway.

Lemuels barn is the largest Ive ever seen.

ELISABETH

And the sturdiest, but I still dont want my children over there.

(SCHNALL arrives carrying a sack of flour and a basket of vegetables)

SCHNALL

This is all that is left at the Denkes house.

MARGARET

Im sure Brother and Sister Denke would not want anyone to go hungry if there

was food in their house.

SCHNALL

Of that I have no doubt, but there is more news and it is not good.

MARGARET

Mathew has already told us the British are at Shermans for the night.

SCHNALL

Yes, and the Americans are not far behind. Colonel Warburtons batteaux ran

aground with the British reserve ammunition and the last of their food and the

Americans have burned them.

ELISABETH

Perhaps we could fill a wagon with food and take it to Shermans for the men.

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SCHNALL

No, it is not safe out there now. It is too dark to know who is an enemy and who

is a friend. I trust that the British have sufficient to see them through tomorrow

and they are coming this way. We will best serve if we remain here and prepare

to help as many as we can.

MARGARET

And so it comes to this. War is on our doorstep and we can do nothing to stop it.

SCHNALL

Im afraid not. All we can do now is follow our Lord s commandment to serve. We

cannot question His will or succumb to fear. We will need all our resolve

tomorrow.

MARGARETBut our Indians... and the children.

SCHNALL

The brethren are safe for now and they have a much better chance of remaining

so if we are not with them. As for the children... we must trust that God will help

us keep them safe. Finish what you are doing and then off to bed. Tomorrow will

be a very long day. (He exits)

MARGARET

(Everyone lowers their head while MARGARET speaks) Dear Lord, please watch

over all of us, our friends who are with us, and our friends who are not here

tonight. We ask that You keep them hidden and safe and we ask that You cast

Your grace over Daniel and Thomas. Amen.

ALL

Amen.

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VIGNETTE FOUR

(We see the back of PROCTER as the charges against him during his court

martial are read)

VOICE

Third, that Major-General Proctor did not take the necessary measures for

affording security to the boats, wagons and carts, laden with the ammunition,

stores and provisions required for the troops on their retreat and allowed them on

the fourth and fifth of October, 1813, to remain in the rear of the division, whereby

they either fell into the enemys hands or were destroyed to prevent their capture.

Fourth, that Major-General Proctor, having assured the Indian chiefs in council, at

Amherstburg, that on their arrival at Chatham they should find the forks of the

Thames fortified, did nevertheless neglect to fortify the same; that he also

neglected to occupy the Heights above the Moravian Village where he might

have awaited the attack of the enemy and engaged them to great advantage,and that after the intelligence had reached him of the approach of the enemy on

the morning of the fifth of October, he halted the division within two miles of the

village, and formed it in a situation highly unfavourable for receiving the attack

which afterwards took place.

CHOIR THREE (Adults)Christian Hearts, In Love United

Christian hearts, in love united,

Seek alone in Jesus rest;Has He not your love excited?Then let love inspire each breast;Members on our Head dependingLights reflecting Him, our Sun,Brethren His commands attending,We in Him, our Lord, are one.

Come, then, come, O flock of Jesus,Covenant with Him anew;

Unto Him Who conquered for us,Pledge we love and service true;

And should our loves union holyFirmly linked no more remain,Wait ye at His footstool lowly,Till He draw it close again.

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Grant, Lord, that with Thy direction,Love each other, we comply,

Aiming with unfeigned affectionThy love to exemplify;Let our mutual love be glowing,

Thus will all men plainly see,That we, as on one stem growing,Living branches are in Thee.

O that such may be our union,As Thine with the Father is,And not one of our communionEer forsake the path of bliss;May our light fore men with brightness,From Thy light reflected, shine;

Thus the world will bear us witness,That we, Lord, are truly Thine.

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II i! Tuesday, October 5, 1813Setting: Inside the Schnall house.(SCHNALL is reciting an inventory of

belongings to MARGARET)

SCHNALL

Fifty bushels of potatoes, 12 bushels of apples, 600 weight of flour, 10 mostly full

beehives, 100 cabbage heads, eight half-grown hogs, 10 flour bags, 12 candles,

one tent and 30 hens. Two hundred and forty-seven dollars, fifty cents.

MARGARET

That is a goodly amount of property. Do you really believe the British will pay for it

all?

SCHNALLWe cant take it with us and the army will need food.

MARGARET

Sure and you dont believe General Procter is just going to hand you over that

amount of money.

SCHNALL

He said that the army would compensate us and I must believe he is a man of his

word.

DOLSON

(Bursting in) Brother Schnall! The Americans are now advancing and the British

soldiers have been forced to abandon Shermans with nothing in their bellies but

a whisky ration.

SCHNALL

Do we know how many Americans there are?

DOLSONAt least 3,000 from what I hear, and they have a few hundred Indians.

SCHNALL

Three thousand against 1,300? Surely Procter will surrender.

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DOLSON

And face the wrath of the Kentuckians? Besides, hes a British general. Its his

sworn duty to fight.

SCHNALL

Even if there is no hope?

DOLSON

The British have a highly evolved sense of duty Im afraid. Anyway, his soldiers

probably figure theyd be better off as prisoners now. At least theyd be fed.

SCHNALL

What will be the outcome if the general is not successful do you think?

DOLSONIts impossible to know, but perhaps if the Americans capture or kill Tecumseh,

theyll consider their work in this country concluded. Is Mrs. Procter still here?

SCHNALL

No, she and her children headed for Delaware some hours ago.

DOLSON

That is unfortunate.

SCHNALL

How so?

DOLSON

When Procter arrived at Shermans this morning, he told the British officers he is

so confident of a victory, Mrs. Procter would welcome them here with tea and

cakes.

SCHNALL

It would appear that Mrs. Procter has far more sense than her husband.

DOLSON

Is this not often the way?

SCHNALL

So it would seem.

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DOLSON

My boy is good with a musket. We can send him off with the women and children

and orders to protect them with his life.

SCHNALL

Surely you dont believe it will come to that.

DOLSON

Not really, but I do think its the only way I can keep him away from here.

(MARGARET, ELISABETH, JOHANNA, HANNAH, ANN LISETTE and MATHEW

arrive)

JOHANNAFather, what is happening?

SCHNALL

The British and the Americans are coming this way.

MATHEW

I knew it. Theres going to be a battle! Father, may I...

DOLSON

You will accompany the women and children upriver until we know what s

happening.

MATHEW

But Father, you know Im a good shot. I might be needed here.

DOLSON

You are needed to protect the women and children. You will take your musket

and protect them at all costs. Do you understand?

MATHEW

(Swelling with pride) Yes father.

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DOLSON

We will need to gather some food and blankets. I don t know how long youll

need to be away. Mathew, load the wagon. Johanna and Hannah, run and tell the

rest of the people whats happening and advise them to move their families

upstream.

SCHNALL

Quickly, let us gather what is needed. (They begin filling a couple of baskets with

food and MARGARET finds some blankets).

MARGARET

Ive made up my mind to stay behind. Mathew and the older girls are quite

capable of looking after themselves and Ann Lisette.

SCHNALLI want you away from here.

ELISABETH

If Margaret is staying, I will too.

DOLSON

Not long ago you couldnt wait to leave this place.

ELISABETH

Not for myself John, for the childrens sake. And now if theyre leaving, then I am

happy to stay behind and do what I can to help.

DOLSON

I would feel much better my love if you were to accompany the children. And you

too Sister Schnall. You have done far more than most would already.

MARGARET

Nonsense, sure and were all here on this earth to serve and if the Good Lord

has work for me to do here, Hell not look kindly on me running off.

DOLSON

I understand how you feel, but well have enough to worry about if either army

gets this far.

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MARGARET

Mr. Dolson, I dont mean to be contrary, but Elisabeth and I have been feeding

people all day, we have bread in the oven and more prepared. With the hospital

moved out, there is no one left behind to care for any injured. We have clean

bandages and the stomachs to do what needs to be done.

SCHNALL

(Exasperated) But Mrs. Dolson...

ELISABETH

Mrs. Dolson has worked side by side with Sister Schnall these past days and will

continue to do so.

MATHEW

(Bursting into the house) Father!

DOLSON

What is it?

MATHEW

I have heard shots. The battle has begun!

SCHNALL

(Shoves the blankets into MATHEWs hands and grabs the baskets himself).

Take these and hurry.

DOLSON

And son...

MATHEW

Yes Father?

DOLSON

Dont come back until you know it is absolutely safe.

MATHEW

Yes Father. (He and SCHNALL rush outside to load the wagon).

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MARGARET

Mr. Dolson, would you be so kind as to fetch the bread out of the oven? I believe

it will be ready, and we have many more loaves yet to bake. (She gives him a

couple of baskets and a towel).

DOLSON

Of course. (He exits)

MARGARET

Well then, lets get started with some more soup...

(The sound of horses riding quickly is heard and then PROCTER rushes onto the

stage SL with two British officers. They are clearly panicked.)

PROCTER

Schnall! Schnall!

SCHNALL

(Rushing to the general). General Procter! What has happened?

PROCTER

I have no time to waste. I am here for my wife and children.

SCHNALL

But, they have already left.

PROCTER

What? When?

SCHNALL

Some hours ago. They have taken a wagon and are heading toward Delaware.

PROCTERThank God. The battle is lost Im afraid. (PROCTER and his men exit quickly, and

there is the sound of horses heading east SR).

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DOLSON

(Rushes onstage) Brother Schnall, a large group of Americans are riding this

way. (We hear the sound of more horses riding in from SL. DOLSON watches out

into the audience.) They arent stopping!

SCHNALL

They are in pursuit of General Procter and his men. The British have lost.

DOLSON

What else do we know?

SCHNALL

Nothing Im afraid.

(MARGARET and ELISABETH come out, wiping their hands on their aprons)

MARGARET

What has happened?

SCHNALL

The British have lost. We know no more than that. But now the British and the

Americans are headed in the same direction we sent the children.

MARGARET

Dear Lord protect them!

DOLSON

Ill go after them, but dont worry. Im sure Mathew will have kept them far from

the road. Theyll be fine. (He exits)

SCHNALL

In all likelihood the Americans will be here very soon. Just continue with what

youre doing. There will be hungry people to be fed and injured to be tended to.

And remember, we have taken no part in this war.

MARGARET

Lets hope they take that into account.

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ELISABETH

Perhaps now that the battle has been fought, you wont have to leave. Im sure

the Americans wont want to remain if theyve driven out the British.

SCHNALL

There is a hope in that thought. We will see what happens. Let us pray that the

brethren remain undiscovered in the meantime.

DOLSON

(Entering the room) The children are safe. They were already on their way back.

MATHEW

(Bursting into the room) The British have lost! We saw General Procter and a

dozen of his men galloping up the road as fast as they could, and the

Kentuckians were right behind them! (JOHANNA, HANNAH and ANN LISETTEenter behind him)

DOLSON

Brother Schnall, I plan to take my family back to Dover now that the battle has

been fought. I invite you and your family to join us.

SCHNALL

Thank you Mr. Dolson, but there will be much to do here and we do not yet know

if we will have to leave this place. We must also ensure that the brethren are

safe. God willing, we will lead them back here.

DOLSON

If you do leave and go west, you know where to find us.

SCHNALL

Thank you Mr. Dolson, and Mrs. Dolson, for all that you have done for us. You

honour your fathers memory in word and deed.

DOLSONThank you, and good luck to you. (The men shake hands).

ELISABETH

I dont feel right leaving you Margaret...

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MARGARET

Please, you must leave. Johanna will help me.

ELISABETH

(To MARGARET) Are you sure?

MARGARET

Yes. Thanks to you weve already a goodly amount of food prepared and Ill be

much happier knowing you and your family are safely away from here.

ELISABETH

All right, but as soon as things settle down...

MARGARET

Yes, God willing well see you soon. (She embraces ELISABETH) Be safe.

ELISABETH

And you.

DOLSON

Come children, Elisabeth, we must leave. (DOLSON, ELISABETH, MATHEW

and HANNAH exit).

SCHNALL

I am going to find out whats happening. (We see him walk off SL and quickly

rush back to the house). There are hundreds and hundreds of people coming,

American soldiers, British prisoners andcivilians. (For the remainder of the

scene, a variety of people will be moving across the stage from SL to SR. They

will then exit to circle around again).

MARGARET

All right, girls youre to stay inside the house now. Go down to the cellar and

bring me as many potatoes as you can manage, and... if I say so, I want you to

stay down there. Do you understand?

JOHANNA

Yes Mother. (ANN LISETTE begins to whimper. The girls begin bringing up the

potatoes)

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MARGARET

Dear Lord, this would be the perfect time for some loaves and fish! (There is a

knock at the door and we see some people with outstretched hands.

MARGARET gives them some food and they move on. She gets back to work,

only to be interrupted again. This movement continues while the scene turns to

SCHNALL DS).

SCHNALL

(Scans a small group of American soldiers). Christian Gottlieb! Christian Gottlieb,

is that you?

GOTTLIEB

Brother Schnall! It is good to see you.

SCHNALLAnd you. How come you to be here?

GOTTLIEB

The Americans asked me to join them.

SCHNALL

Surely you have not permitted your hands to be bloodied?

GOTTLIEB

Brother Schnall, I am not a soldier, I am a translator. I have killed no one.

SCHNALL

Still...

GOTTLIEB

Much has happened since the ten years we last saw one another. I must feed my

family and the army pays me.

SCHNALLYou know, you can always bring your family back to us. As long as you abide by

our rules, there will always be a place for you, if not here, then wherever we may

find ourselves.

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GOTTLIEB

It is something to think on. I am to tell you that no harm will come to you or

anyone else at the mission. The army wishes only some food and our officers

would like a comfortable accommodation this night.

(HOSTILE AMERICAN SOLDIER enters from SL. Sees GOTTLIEB and

SCHNALL speaking and walks over to the group of American soldiers, chats with

them briefly before wandering over to GOTTLIEB and SCHNALL)


(To GOTTLIEB) What do you think youre doing?

GOTTLIEB

I am speaking to an old friend.


Since when does an Indian have a British man for a friend?

SCHNALL

I am not British and I am indeed this man s friend.


Really? If you are friends, then you all wont mind handing over any British

officers or goods you have hidden away in this town. (The group of soldiers has

moved in to watch)

SCHNALL

There is nothing left behind by the British. This is a simple mission. We do not

fight, nor have we taken sides in this war between yourselves and the British.


You dont fight? You expect me to believe that?

SCHNALLWe do not fight. Whether or not you choose to believe, that is your decision.


(Knocks GOTTLIEB to the ground.) You dont fight, even now?

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SCHNALL

Even now. (Bends down to help GOTTLIEB up. HOSTILE AMERICAN SOLDIER

knocks SCHNALLS arm away.)


Just leave him in the dirt. Thats where his kind belongs anyway. (To GOTTLIEB)

You saw what happened to Tecumseh didnt you?

SCHNALL

Then he is killed?


Yes, after his so-called British friends left him and the rest of the savages in the

woods to die.

(While this is going on, one of the other American soldiers helps GOTTLIEB up)


(To the other Americans) Go and check the houses. I dont trust these people.

They could be hiding anything, or anyone, here. (The other soldiers move off SR)

SCHNALL

We are hiding nothing.


Youll forgive me if I dont take your word for it.

SCHNALL

All we ask is to be left in peace. We are happy to share with you whatever we

have, but we have no British goods or men here.


So you say. Well soon find out the truth of the matter.

(Another few soldiers enter SL with DOLSON, ELISABETH, HANNAH and

MATHEW).

SCHNALL

Mr. Dolson! Are you all right?

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DOLSON

Yes, yes, were fine. Were to be detained apparently. (To HANNAH and

MATHEW). You children go inside and help your mother.


Not so fast. (Approaches MATHEW). Whats your name boy?

MATHEW

Mathew Dolson.


And how old are you?

DOLSON

Hes just a boy. Leave him alone.


I asked the boy a question. I expect an answer.

DOLSON

Hes...


(Sharply) From the boy!

MATHEW

Im thirteeen.


Thirteen. Old enough to handle a musket then.

MATHEW

Yes sir.


When I was your age, all I could think of was joining the army and killing me

some Indians.

MATHEW

Yes sir.

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You know why that was? You know why I wanted to kill as many of them as I

could?

MATHEW

I dont know sir.


Cause they killed my family, thats why. Scalped my father, did... unspeakable

things to my mama and my sisters. (Points at GOTTLIEB) You cant trust them.

You cant trust any of them.

SCHNALL

That has not been our experience sir.


(To MATHEW) Get in the house. (MATHEW exits to the house)

DOLSON

Thank you.

(Several American soldiers come into the scene carrying a large trunk).


What is this? (The soldiers put the trunk down and HOSTILE AMERICAN

SOLDIER opens it up. Inside there are papers which he looks at.) So, you lied to

us!

SCHNALL

What? What are you saying? I dont recognize that trunk.


These are British military documents.

SCHNALL

They are nothing to do with us.


Then why are they here? And what else are you hiding?

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SCHNALL

Nothing, we are not hiding anything. I dont know where those papers came from.

I tell you I have not seen that trunk before.


(To SCHNALL) This your house?

SCHNALL

Yes it is.


(To the other soldiers) Go in and search the house. Look everywhere. (The men

enter the house. As SCHNALL turns to enter the house) You can stay here.

SCHNALLBut, my wife and children...


No need to worry about them... Unless of course, you re hiding something.

SCHNALL

I am hiding nothing.


Then you have nothing to fear.

SCHNALL

With the Lord at my side, I fear nothing.


(The soldiers come out of the house. They each have something to eat and one

is holding a sheaf of papers which he hands over to HOSTILE AMERICAN

SOLDIER). What are these?

SCHNALL

That is my diary.


Your diary?

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SCHNALL

Yes, it documents our time here at the mission. I write it for our leadership in

Bethlehem.


Bethlehem is it? (Laughs)

SCHNALL

In Pennsylvania. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. That is where our church is.


These papers aint English. What kind of gibberish is this?

SCHNALL

That is German. It is the only language in which I can comfortably write.


(Pulls out a thin book from the papers) And what is this? This book of pictures?

SCHNALL

That is Brother Denkes book. He is interested in botany and the Delaware

language. He has entrusted this to me while he is... away.


Away?

SCHNALL

Yes, he is with the Indians of this mission


(To SCHNALL) Your Indians, where are they?

SCHNALL

I do not know. They are far from this place. Brother and Sister Denke are withthem.


Brother and Sister Denke and the Indians. Its just one big happy family isnt it?

Where are they?

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SCHNALL

I have told you I do not know.


(To SCHNALL) You do not know or you will not say?

SCHNALL

I do not know and would not say if I did.


(To SCHNALL). I cant figure out if youre lying to me or crazy or both, but I don t

trust you. Get inside and stay there. General Harrison will be here tomorrow and

he can decide what to do about you and your savages. (To the soldiers) Two of

you stay here and be sure no one leaves.

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VIGNETTE FIVE

(Once again we see Procters back and he listens to the final charge.)

VOICE

Fifth, that Major-General Procter did not, on October fifth, either prior to, or

subsequent to the attack by the enemy on the division make the military

dispositions best adapted to meet or esist the attack, and that during the action,

and after the troops had given way, he did not make any effectual attempt to rally

or encourage them, or support the Indians who were engaged with the enemy on

the right, having quitted the field soon after the action commenced. Such conduct

on the part of Major-General Procter betrayed great professional incapacity,

resulting in the defeat and dishonour of His Majestys Arms. The sacrifice of the

division committed to his charge was in violation of his duty, unbecoming and

disgraceful to his character as an officer, prejudicial to good order and military

discipline and contrary to the Articles of War.

PROCTER

(Now turning to face the audience)

I am accused of having unnecessarily halted the troops for several days; of

having omitted to destroy the bridges over which the enemy would be obliged to

pass; of not having taken the necessary measures for affording security to our

ammunition, stores and provisions; of having assured the Indian chiefs that on

their arrival at Chatham, they would find the forks of the Thames fortified, and of

having neglected to fortify them and of having neglected to occupy the heights

above the Moravian Town, where it is nowsaid the enemy might have been

engaged to great advantage.

It would be thought by a stranger to these transactions, that my conduct had

been marked by the utmost remissness and inattention, and that I had bestowed

no care upon, and made no exertions to obtain information respecting the

position which the division was to occupy.

However, the retreat from Dover being unauthorized by me, can it be said that I

shall be answerable for the results of this move?

I had every reason to believe the advance of the enemys mounted men along

the road would have been checked by the cannon, had it not been desertedwithout an effort.Nor could I expect that the first line, having discharged their

pieces without orders, would give way, and disperse, instantly followed by the

second line.Although every effort seemed hopeless, I urged the first line, by all

the sentiments of shame and duty, to meet the enemy. It was unavailing.Was I to

remain without any other hope but that of adding one more trophy to those which

the enemy had acquired? All hopes of retrieving the day were past.

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But I had almost forgotten the charge of suffering the division to be encumbered

with useless baggage. All the witnesses on the part of the prosecution itself have

refuted this charge.

We are all naturally disposed to think those measures unwise which prove

ultimately to be unsuccessful. It is only with much difficulty that we can place

ourselves in the situation of the actors, and justly appreciate the reasons which

have determined their conduct; for the results, particularly when they are

unfortunate, throw a shade over objects, so that the most experienced eye can

hardly distinguish their original colours. (Turns back to audience again)

VOICE

January 28, 1815. Upon the whole, the court is of the opinion that the prisoner,

Major-General Procter, has in many instances during the retreat, and in the

disposition of the force under his command, been erroneous in judgement and in

some, deficient in those energetic and active exertions, which the extraordinarydifficulties of his situation so particularly required. The court does therefore

adjudge him to be publicly reprimanded and to be suspended from rank and pay

for the period of six calendar months. But as to any defect or reproach, with

regard to the personal conduct of Major-General Procter, during the action on the

fifth of October, the court most fully and honourably acquits Major-General

Procter.

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II ii! Wednesday, October 6, 1813Setting: Outside the Schnall house.(There is a wagon onstage now.

SCHNALL and DOLSON are attempting to load it with goods from the house,

some of which are snatched out of their hands. The stage is filled with a number

of people who are taking baskets of food etc. out of the SCHNALL house. The

SCHNALL and DOLSON families stand quietly outside, watching.)

SCHNALL

(To the mob) We are leaving. Is that not enough? Please let us take our

belongings and go.


Were letting you go, but youre not taking the food out of these hungry mouths.

Look at all these folks, women and children whove been marching for days.

SCHNALL

I am sorry for that, and we have done our best to feed as many as we could, but I

must think also of the many people I am responsible for and they must eat also. If

your General Harrison wishes to purchase supplies from us...


(Laughs again) If he wishes to purchase... Dont you all realize youve lost?

SCHNALL

Lost? We cannot have lost if we werent in the battle to begin with.


Did you fight with us?

SCHNALL

(Says nothing)

HOSTILE AMERICAN SOLDIER(Shouting) Did you fight with us?

SCHNALL

(Quietly) We fight with no one. We fight against no one.

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(HOSTILE AMERICAN SOLDIER raises his hand as if to strike SCHNALL, but is

stopped by a couple of other soldiers).


Remember this MisterSchnall. Well take whatever we want and if you know

whats good for you youll keep your mouth shut and be grateful were letting you

go. (He walks offstage and SCHNALL and DOLSON resume loading the wagon).

MARGARET

Johann, lets just take the children. There is nothing more we can do here. The

others have already gone.

SCHNALL

Margaret, are you forgetting how hard we have worked for all of this? And now,

we are asked to leave this place and start again? If that is Gods will, then that iswhat we must do, would He have us leave with nothing but the clothes upon our

backs? How will we feed our people?

MARGARET

Our Lord and Saviour has always provided for us and He will again.

ANGRY WOMAN

(Approaches with several others) Ive heard about you people!

DOLSON

Please, let us get on with this.

ANGRY WOMAN

(To SCHNALL) I know about you. I know how youve been protecting the Indians,

feeding them, giving them shelter.

SCHNALL

They have fed themselves and built their own homes. We have lived together

here in peace for 20 years.

ANGRY WOMAN

Indians are Indians (to the mob), arent they?

MOB

Yes, they are, etc.

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ANGRY WOMAN

We were at the River Raisin you know.

SCHNALL

I am sorry...

ANGRY WOMAN

Do you know what they did to my husband? (To the SCHNALL and DOLSON

families)

MARGARET

(Walks to ANGRY WOMAN in an attempt to calm her down) Please...

ANGRY WOMAN

Do you know what those murdering savages did to my husband? (The MOBencourages her tirade). They almost killed him in the fighting but he wasnt lucky

enough to die on the battlefield. They took him prisoner and when your General

Procter left those wounded prisoners, the Indians burned the buildings they were

lying in. Thats Indians... thats what they do (she begins crying). He couldnt

even run outside!

MARGARET

I am so sorry for your loss, but our Indians had nothing to do with that battle.

They have suffered greatly as well. All any of us wants to do is live in peace.

ANGRY WOMAN

Peace! There can never be peace...

SCHNALL

Yes there can and there must be. The Indians who have lived here are good

Christians. They have killed no one.

ANGRY WOMAN

Maybe they have you fooled, but we can recognize a wolf in sheeps clothing. (To

the MOB) Cant we?

MOB

Yes, we can, etc. (ANGRY WOMAN disappears into the mob and they move

offstage)

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SCHNALL

Mr. Dolson. You should take your family and leave at once.

DOLSON

No. We will stay and help...

SCHNALL

No. You have stayed and helped enough. (Meaningfully) They say you may leave

and I believe it would be very wise of you to do so. I dont know what will happen

here.

DOLSON

Well take the canoes. You follow us in the wagon. If our place hasnt been

completely ransacked, we can provide you with some food for your journey.

SCHNALL

Good luck Mr. Dolson, and God willing we will see you soon. (The men shake

hands, women and children hug etc, then the DOLSON family exits US)

MARGARET

Girls, roll your clothes up in your bedding and bring them out here.

JOHANNA

Yes mother. (The girls go inside)

(HARRISON and several soldiers arrive)

HARRISON

(To one of the soldiers) I want you to gather some men and build some rafts

down by the river. If there are any canoes there already, confiscate them. Well

take whatever is useful to us from this town.


Yes sir. Shall we go through the houses first?

HARRISON

Yes. Start with this one.

SCHNALL

Are you General Harrison?

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HARRISON

I am. And you are?

SCHNALL

I am Brother Johann Schnall. I am in charge of this mission.

HARRISON

No Mr. Schnall. You werein charge of this mission. I am in charge of it now.

SCHNALL

For days we have been feeding the refugees from this war and all day yesterday

your men as well. We are pleased to have done this work on behalf of our Lord,

however...

HARRISONHowever?

SCHNALL

I have an accounting of the supplies we have expended and...

HARRISON

This is war Mr. Schnall, and you have lost. Dont make it more difficult for

yourselves than it needs to be. We will not take you prisoners, be grateful for

that.

SCHNALL

And we are, but...

HARRISON

But?

SCHNALL

But I have 150 mouths to feed and if we have nothing to give them because our

own food is lost to us, then we need money to purchase more.

HARRISON

Perhaps the Lord will provide, for I sir, shall not. And I suggest that you move

along as quickly as you can. I have thousands of people here and I cannot

guarantee your safety.

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SCHNALL

But general...

HARRISON

I dont have time for this. Now gather your belongings and leave!

ANGRY WOMAN

(Comes back with her MOB) Thats them General. Thats the people who

sheltered the Indians. (MOB makes angry sounds).

HARRISON

(To SCHNALL) I am warning you. If this was my family, I would not linger.

(PERRY enters from SL) Commodore Perry.

PERRYSir. What is happening here?

HARRISON

This man was in charge of this town, but I have explained to him...

PERRY

It is Brother Schnall is it not?

SCHNALL

It is.

PERRY

I am Oliver Perry, and am an admirer of your work here. (To HARRISON) I can

see to these people if you have other duties to attend to. (HARRISON walks off,

the MOB remains, heckling).

SCHNALL

Thank you sir.

PERRY

I will provide you with a pass so you might leave here unmolested. I suggest you

finish loading up your wagon as quickly as you can. (To the MOB) Leave these

people alone. They are no enemies of ours. (The MOB disperses and so does

PERRY)

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JOHANNA

(Coming out of the house with ANN LISETTE. They are holding their bundles)

Father, how can we leave without knowing whats happened to Thomas and

Daniel?

MARGARET

God willing they are safe Johanna, but there is nothing we can do now but leave

War Finds A Way: Fairfield 1813

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Transcript of War Finds A Way: Fairfield 1813