Sic Semper Tyrannis! Poem by Joseph Cross

I hear them, their smug laughter filling Ford’s Theater.
No excuse, in my opinion, for a bunch of over appreciated, high and mighty northerners, far too good to assist anyone daring enough to associate themselves with the South!
As I ensure my pistol is loaded and ready, I spot a smudge on the shining barrel,
Soon to be a beacon to all of my brothers in arms.
Only one curtain lies between us.
Only a curtain…
I hear him talking with his “oh so beloved” wife.
I have no real quarrel with her, but if she must suffer for his tyrannical actions, then so be it.
I move the curtain only a bit, just enough to see him in his “seat of honor.”
No hat to protect you today, good sir.
I already see that, no matter my speed, Major Rathbone will act.
My knife is at the ready.
I sweep the curtain aside, as the hall roars with laughter, mocking my life and love.
There is no turning back.
I take aim.
The Deringer, though small, is heavy in my hand.
I pull the trigger.
I imagine the theater ringing with the sound of justice as she screams.
My blade fits nicely in Master Rathbone’s side.
He truly is too bold.
I take my leap of faith.
My leg breaks on impact.
My voice rings through the hall.
“Sic Semper Tyrannis! ”