For an Actor, preparation is everything. We are much more than our face paint and props. Rehearsals can go on for hours, as we block out our scenes in our parts. So it will not surprise you that Friday The fourteenth of April found me at Ford’s theater in Washington preparing for my part in the play. My horse would be held at the ready My pistol was loaded and clean. I was known and well liked by the company. Like a ghost, I could wander unseen. I’m disappointed Grant missed my performance His wife Julia hates Mary some say. Her aversion has stolen one target, but the other will not get away. Theater is a matter of timing and I knew this crowd and this play I entered amidst raucous Laughter and fired, once, in the “Emancipator’s” brain. Some soldier attempted to grab me and got himself stabbed for his pains. I balanced myself on the railing preparing to leap on the stage. I could hear Mary Todd Lincoln Screaming. “Sic Semper Tyrannis!” I raged. My boot spur got caught in the bunting I lost balance and fell on the stage. The actors were stunned to inaction as I limped, none impeded my way. Mister Lincoln has made his last speech and likely seen his last play. What actor worth his salt wouldn’t **** to make his exit my way?
My thanks to Spysgrandson for the suggestion that led to the writing of this piece. It is Friday, April 14,1865 at Ford's Theater in Washington D.C. and I am John Wilkes Booth.