EXT. IN A BACK ALLEY, SOMEWHERE IN WASHINGTON - AFTERNOON

Seward, now inside the carriage, slams the door.

           SEWARD

Perhaps you push too hard.

W.N. BILBO I push nobody. Perhaps we need reinforcements. If Jeff Davis wants to cease hostilities, who do you think'll give a genuine solid shit to free slaves? 69.

           SEWARD

Get back to it, and good day, gentlemen.

Schell and Latham lean in to the carriage.

           RICHARD SCHELL

We are at an impasse.

           ROBERT LATHAM

Tell Lincoln to deny the rumors. Publicly.

           RICHARD SCHELL

Tell us what you expect of us.

           SEWARD

I expect you to do your work! And to have sufficient sense and taste not to presume to instruct the President. Or me.

Schell steps up on the running board, intent.

           RICHARD SCHELL

Is there a Confederate offer or not?