One Last Opinion (1st Place)

Abe glanced down at the scribble on the paper in his hands as the carriage bumped along the dusty road. The plodding of the horse’s hooves thumped in his ears. He’d recalled the last few days of writing and revising and decided to review it once again. Lost in his own thoughts he read it through one last time.

The carriage winded along the road and up a few hills. He stared out the window as dozens of people waved at his passage. The tiny town brimmed with visitors. Nary a bed for miles could be found unoccupied. In the distance a graveside funeral progressed amongst a sea of plain white headstones set all in rows.

The carriage came to a halt near a stage and Abe motioned an aid to come to him. The drone of Mr. Everett rounding out his speech wafted through.

“Sir, could you read my speech before I make a fool of myself. I’d like a fresh opinion.”

The young lad of about 22 stared at the President. “Me sir?”

“Yes.” He slipped the paper through the window and pressed it into his hand.

Abe waited for the him to finish.

The lad looked up. “It’s a bit short.”

Abe glanced up at the stage where Everett was in full animation. He turned his eyes back to the lad.

“Mr. Everett is the keynote.”

“But everyone is expecting you to go on for an hour. You’re doing it wrong if I may be so bold. You have thousands of people and…”

“Young man. Heartfelt is better than long-winded. Tell me. What did you think of it?”

“I’d say the world will little note or long remember it.”

Abe frowned and nodded. “Perhaps you’re right. I may even add that in.”



296 Words



Flash Story limited to 300 Words
Must Contain the phrase "You're doing it wrong"

Editor's Pick Drama NL 10/14/2015

http://www.abrahamlincolnonline.org/lincoln/speeches/gettysburg.htm