Henry Brewster Stanton
1805-1887
Abolitionist and Social Reformer, Husband to Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Written and Performed By: Kevin S. Foster II
Setting: New York, New York, 1887
Henry Stanton is in his study, reflecting on his career. He stands overlooking the fireplace as his sons enter for an evening conversation.

 (Sounds of the fire crackling and rain/storm begin to fade in)
Gather round. Join me. Warm yourselves here with me by the fire. I canÕt shake this chill. Just listen to that rain. (pause) The rain is lashing down. It is such Brutal weather for an election night.
(a clock chimes)
Those memories from my child hood still haunt me. When I close my eyes I can still imagine Henrietta calming me down. I cannot bare the things I used to witness. (PAUSE) This is why I fight! (PAUSE) Your mother and I have been fighting for the cause for many years now. Sons, remember: In solidarity with one another we can make change. Colored people have been fighting for freedom.ÊThe Woman too, has a right to suffrage just like her fellow man. We must band together and fight for what is right. 
When I was in London, some time ago, speaking to people while on tour, AÊman stopped me and asked "Why are you behind this?" ÊIt stopped me right in my tracks. People had always asked me for my views but never asked me point blank why I was behind the cause. 
But my answer came naturally... "I do what is right" (pause, seeing his children areÊinches away from the point)ÊYou know in the Bible when Jesus says "treat others as you want to be treated? That is just my point! If we want to make change, then we need to put ourselves in otherÕs shoes.ÊÊMy dear sons, I have sought to build a world better. I hope, you too, will continue the fight. The world needs change. It needs inspiration. It needs you. Now, I must retire to bed. We will discuss the election results tomorrow morning. (thunder crack) I am hopeful that this storm will stop and we will finally see the sun tomorrow!