The Widow's Tea Act II, Scene 5

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EXT: THE ARMSTEAD HOME

SUSAN: My trouble, honestly. Mr. Armstead's signed a deed of manumission.


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INT: SIMPLE LOWER MIDDLE CLASS PARLOR. MARY ELLEN BELL STANDS WITH TEA TRAY AS WOMEN TALK. SHE IS LISTENING.

SUSAN: Gave away the only valuable property we have. For some moral notion, (dismissively) anti-slavery business.


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SUSAN: I cannot believe it...


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WOMAN #1: There there, Susan. "The Lord hast been our refuge from one generation to another." Mr. Armstead's death leaves you in a particular standing in your household.


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SUSAN: Yes yes, I am well aware... but...


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WOMAN #2: Surely you know, Susan, as his widow you have protections under the law.


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CUT TO MARY ELLEN WHO LISTENS.

WOMAN #2: You have sole legal authority over your property, and that authority is absolute.


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WOMAN #3: In the light of the law, Susan, I am inclined to inquire of you, "wherein does your grievance reside?"


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SUSAN: (trying to stay composed) The deed of manumission for the female. The deed... it has been duly filed in the court.


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SUSAN: All signatories are valid.


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SUSAN: I'm afraid there is no way around it.


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WOMAN #2: Susan, if I may, what were the circumstances under which Mr. Armstead signed the deed?


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SUSAN: (a bit embarrassed) The execution of it was made while he was recuperating in the Almshouse.


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SUSAN: He signed it in the morning. I learned from the clerk that afternoon the deed had been filed in the courthouse.


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WOMAN #2: (cautiously) Then, Susan, I daresay Mr. Armstead may have signed the deed, under duress...


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WOMAN #2: ...extreme duress. I would hazard, even, if convalescence here from his illness could avail him of no health benefits, then surely...


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WOMAN #2: ...his illness and care away from your home may have affected his (pause) mind?


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WOMAN #3: (boldly) Your claim could be, then, Susan that Mr. Armstead was NOT of sound mind and, therefore, forced under duress when he executed the deed.


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WOMAN #3: Might I suggest that you apprehend the full value of your property? Without further delay, call for an appraisal of your personal estate.


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WOMAN #3: The future increase of the female negro belongs to you, Susan. It is your due right as sole Mistress of your estate.


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WOMEN NOD IN AGREEMENT.