Major Forbes Quotes in Glory (1989)

Major Forbes: [as Col. Shaw is writing, Maj. Forbes approaches him with a letter from President Lincoln] They've done it.

Colonel Robert G. Shaw: [Shaw reads the letter] Assemble the men.

[54th is in formation in the pouring rain in the Camp Readville common area]

Colonel Robert G. Shaw: In accordance with President Lincoln's wishes, you men are advised that the Confederate Congress has issued a proclamation. It reads: 'Any negro taken in arms against the Confederacy will immediately be returned to a state of slavery. Any negro taken in Federal uniform will be summarily put to death. Any white officer taken in command of negro troops shall be deemed as inciting servile insurrection and shall likewise be put to death.' Full discharges will be granted in the morning to all those who apply. Dismissed.

Colonel Robert G. Shaw: [turning to Forbes after dismissal of troops] If you're not here in the morning, I'll understand.

Trip: [turns to Sharts] Still want that blue suit, nigger?

Major Forbes: Why do you treat the men this way, Robert?

Colonel Robert G. Shaw: How should I treat them?

Major Forbes: ...Like men?

Colonel Robert G. Shaw: Never, question my authority in front of others

Major Forbes: Well I is sorry, mas'sa. You be the boss-man now and all us chill'ins must learn your ways.

Sgt. Mulcahy: [mocking Searles' manner of walking] Oh, look at this, Bonnie Prince Charlie! Are you a gentleman? Are you a member of Congress or something? Or are you the bloody Prince of Africa?

[Searles looks at the sergeant indignantly]

Sgt. Mulcahy: Don't look at me, look straight ahead! I'll eat your ass up, boyo!

Major Forbes: [observing the drill with Shaw] You know, the Irish are not noted for their fondness for the colored.

Major Forbes: [gibbering in fear behind a rock] The sooner we're back in Bulawayo again, the better!