INT. LINCOLN'S OFFICE, WHITE HOUSE - MORNING

Preston Blair, still in his traveling cloak, and Lincoln stand near the fireplace facing one another.

           PRESTON BLAIR

Jefferson Davis is sending three delegates: Stephens, Hunter and Campbell: Vice President of the Confederacy, their former Secretary of State, and their Assistant 41.

Secretary of War. They're coming in earnest to propose peace.

Both men look into the fire. Preston moves closer.

PRESTON BLAIR (CONT'D) I know this is unwelcome news for you. Now hear me: I went to Richmond to talk to traitors, to smile at and plead with traitors, because it'll be spring in two months, the roads'll be passable, the Spring slaughter commences. Four bloody Springs now! Think of my Frank, who you've taken to your heart, how you'll blame yourself if the war takes my son as it's taken multitudes of sons. Think of all the boys who'll die if you don't make peace. You must talk with these men!

           LINCOLN

I intend to, Preston. And in return, I must ask you -

PRESTON BLAIR LINCOLN No, this is not horsetrading, - to support our push for this is life and - the amendment when it reaches THE -

There's a knock on the door.

           LINCOLN (CONT'D)

Not now!

Robert enters. Nicolay stands behind him, apologetic.

           LINCOLN (CONT'D)

Oh. Bob. I'm sorry. Welcome home.

He shakes hands with his son, stiffly.

           ROBERT

Thank you.

LINCOLN PRESTON BLAIR (to Robert:) (pointedly:) I'm talking to Preston Blair, You're looking fit, Robert. we - Harvard agrees with you. Fit ROBERT and rested. Mr. Blair. 42.

           LINCOLN

(dismissing Robert, UNINTENTIONALLY ABRUPT) Just give us a moment please, Robert. Thank you.

He turns to Preston. Robert, stung, hesitates, then leaves the room, Nicolay shutting the door behind him.

           PRESTON BLAIR

I will procure your votes for you, as I promised. You've always kept your word to me. Those Southern men are coming. (taking Lincoln's hand) I beg you, in the name of Gentle CHRIST -

PRESTON BLAIR (CONT'D) LINCOLN Talk peace with these men. Preston, I understand...

           LINCOLN
           (SHARPLY)

I understand, Preston.