12 Years a Slave scene 10: INT. STORE - LATER

10INT. STORE - LATER

We are inside the store of MR. CEPHAS PARKER, a supplier of general goods. Solomon greets him with:

SOLOMON

Mr. Parker.

PARKER

Mr. Northup. Mrs. Northup.

Though little is stated, their is clearly familiarity among them.

With money in hand the Northup children move quickly about the store looking for items to purchase.

At the checkout counter sits a portrait of WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON, the edges draped in black crepe. Before the book sits a LEDGER. Mr. Parker asks of Solomon:

PARKER (CONT'D)

If you would, Mr. Northup, sign

our condolence book. My hope is

to find a way to forward it to the

Widow Harrison. Sad days for the

nation.

SOLOMON

But brighter times ahead.

As Anne looks over some silks and fabrics, Solomon eyes a new violin. He asks of Parker:

SOLOMON (CONT'D)

May I?

PARKER

It would be my pleasure. Could I

trouble you for a waltz, sir?

Solomon does a quick tuning of the instrument, then into a waltz; lively and well played. The Elizabeth and Margaret clasp hands and dance. There is laughter and smiles.

As Solomon plays, Jasper enters the store. He stands for a moment, again in seeming admiration of Solomon. While far from pathetic, Jasper is the definition of a subservient man.

As Solomon concludes to the applause of Parker and the children:

JASPER

Suh... A word, suh? I could not

help none but take note of yahself

and yah family as yah made yah