Season 2 Episode 9
"Prestonpans"
WRITTEN BY: IRA STEVEN BEHR
FADE IN:
1TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - DAWN - TOMORROW1
OPENING ON the hands of a woman tearing a petticoat into straps for bandages. We retire to reveal ALLINA CLERK, the wife of a soft-spoken farmer, sitting on a bench in a cabin that has been turned into a makeshift field hospital. The room is in a deep shadow, lit only by a few flickering candles. A hand comes to rest on his shoulder - it is CLAIRE, who makes a final check on the state of readiness of the hospital.
CLAIRE(
to Allina) Widen the bandages a little.
ALLINA
Yes, ma'am.
Claire continues in the room, her heavy steps in silence, as she examines the work of half a dozen other WOMEN who are preparing the hospital for use. They are clan women – wives of farmers and workers, not skilled nurses. Their faces tense with fear and distress. Claire makes eye contact with one of them, a well-groomed girl who beams with apprehension. Claire smiles as she encourages him, but it doesn't do much to calm the girl's nervous nerves.
CLAIRE
I know how you all feel. I've been through it before. Terror. Self-doubt. But our men depend on us, and we will not let them down.
It was a few minutes before dawn, September 21, 1745. The Battle of Prestonpans is about to begin. Claire stops at a TABLE COVERED WITH FABRIC, where various SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS are arranged. She takes a knife, studies it by the light of the lamp, then hands it to MOLLY COCKBURN, a teenager.
CLAIRE Boil it again. Instruments must be impeccable.
MOLLY COCKBURN
Right now.
The first rays of the morning sun pierce the windows of the makeshift field hospital, chasing shadows in the corners of the room. But the light brings no consolation, for in a few moments the silence is broken by the DISTANT HOWL of the Highlanders charging in battle. The heads pivot towards the windows, although there is nothing to see there. And then the CRIS of war are drowned by salvos of fire from the British muskets. As the SOUNDS OF BATTLE rage, one of the budding nurses bursts into tears. Another, ALICE MCMURDO, a thin middle-aged woman, whispers fervent prayer.
ALICE
: "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will dwell in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in him I will trust."
With a deep breath, Claire stands up, her hands unconsciously smoothing her apron.
CLEAR
(quiet, but firm) Throw more wood on the fire. We're going to need a lot of hot water.
And while the women rush to do what they have been ordered, A PLAN ON...
2EXT. TRANENT VILLAGE - DAY - TODAY2
Occupied by the motley Highland army.
O'SULLIVAN
There you go, sir. Right there, sir, is your enemy. And we do nothing but sit here and twiddle our thumbs.
3VILLAGE INTERNATIONAL DE TRANENT - QG - JOUR3
Crowded with men gathered around a wooden table displaying a map of the surrounding area. Among them are JAMIE, PRINCE CHARLES STUART, LORD GENERAL GEORGE MURRAY (early 50s, proud and haughty), QUARTERMASTER COLONEL JOHN WILLIAM O'SULLIVAN (MID-40S, ROUND AND STOCKY HAIR OF LAN), AND A GROUP OF CLANS INCLUDING ANDREW MACDONALD [Episode 110].
PRINCE CHARLES
And what would you like the Lord General to do, John? Forgive me, Quartermaster O'Sullivan.
O'Sullivan hits the table with his fist.
O ' SULLIVAN
Attack, damn it! Forgive me, Your Grace. But I, for one, do not see why General Murray insists that we waste our time on nonsense.
MURRAY
Nonsense, sir? Is that what you call it? I rushed the army here to secure our possession of the heights. And now you want us to abandon such a strong defensive position and attack the enemy in force?
O ' SULLIVAN
Indeed, sir. As you say, we occupy the upper ground. A fact, no doubt noticed by General Cope, sir. Therefore, he will not dare to send his forces against us. Instead, he will be waiting for reinforcements, composed — I am sad to say — of traitors from some of your own clans.
The truth of this is reinforced by the dark mumbling of the clan leaders.
O'SULLIVAN (continued)
Time, sir. Time is running out. (to Charles) We must not linger, Your Grace. But hit, and hit hard.
JAMIE
May I remind the quartermaster that we are short of artillery. And without cannon support, a frontal assault would be an answer to General Cope's prayers. (pointing to map) Any attacking force will have to cross here, through the Tranent meadow. Although "meadows" is a fancy name for the bog that lies between us and the enemy.
O ' SULLIVAN
Since when is a Scotsman afraid of a little mud? Especially when an enemy is waiting for him just beyond.
JAMIE
And since when does an officer of Irish origin remove the danger of marshy terrain for an infantry attack?
MURRAY
Thank God. A healthy voice, finally. (to O'Sullivan) I've seen swamps that can drive a man up to his waist. (to Prince Charles) Can you imagine, Sire? Your army wallow, helpless, under a withering salvo of the British brown musket? A deadly weapon fifty meters away. And accurate up to a hundred.
O ' SULLIVAN
(to Murray) You boast, sir, of possessing the heights, but I find it very doubtful that you did not order a reconnaissance of the terrain on your forehead.
JAMIE
A squad of cavalry would prove useful to our needs. Both to test the terrain and to report on the enemy position.
MACDONALD
Yes, a squad of dragoons could mean the difference between victory and defeat.
O ' SULLIVAN
Let's not talk about defeat. (then) As for the Lord General, may I remind him that he will remain behind the lines, so he does not need to worry about British marksmanship.
MURRAY
(screaming) Damn my liver! What do you mean, sir?
O ' SULLIVAN
I am not insinuating anything, sir. I am simply grateful that we depend on the bravery of our warriors, who are not afraid to face bullets and shells to achieve a glorious victory for our Prince and King.
Now it's Murray's turn to slam the table, but before more insults can fly...
PRINCE CHARLES
Listen to me, it has only been weeks since we took the cities of Perth and Edinburgh without firing a single shot. And let's not forget that people welcomed me with open arms.
JAMIE
Yes, but on both occasions we had the element of surprise, Your Royal Highness. General Cope was not waiting for us. His troops fled.
MURRAY
It won't happen again.
PRINCE CHARLES
Maybe if I had to arrange a meeting with the General. Offer him generous conditions of surrender. Give him my word that his men would be allowed to return to England unmolested. I'm sure he doesn't want to shed English blood any more than I do. We are all brothers, after all.
Charles' statement manages to calm the situation. Since no one believes that a meeting between Charles and General Cope will solve anything. Finally, O'Sullivan speaks:
O ' SULLIVAN
Even little boy, you had a very kind heart, Sire. But the time for discussion is long gone. We sailed from France to war. Let's fight and get it over with.
MURRAY
I will not risk destroying our army by ordering it to cross potentially deadly terrain. (to O'Sullivan) Is that clear, sir? I will not allow it!
O ' SULLIVAN
Then resign from your commission and let the Prince find himself a general with a firmer backbone.
MURRAY
You pompous toe!
MACDONALD
And while you are exchanging insults, what should I say to Clan MacDonald?
Other clan leaders are also troubled by the lack of clear leadership.
JAMIE
You tell your people that they must wait for more orders.
With one last hateful look at O'Sullivan, Murray walks out.
JAMIE (continued) (watching him leave)
Which may take a while.
4EXT. TRANENT VILLAGE - HQ YARD - DAY - 30 MIN. LATER4
The clan leaders storm out of the building, gloomy and devoid of any sense of kinship, as they separate to join their various gangs. Jamie comes out behind them, wondering how an army can win a rebellion with so much dissension within its ranks. After a beat, he is joined by the Prince.
PRINCE CHARLES
Why do the Scots have to be such an intractable people?
JAMIE
Yes, we can be pig's heads on occasion. (out of Charles' gaze) On many occasions. Like the Irish, I fear so.
PRINCE CHARLES
Our rebellion must succeed, James. I promised my father, and I promised God. (then) Tell me, your noble wife is among those who will provide medical relief to those poor souls who will need it, no matter how the cannon roars?
JAMIE
She is helping to set up a field hospital as we speak, Your Royal Highness.
PRINCE CHARLES
So be kind enough to tell him that the prince is asking for British casualties to be cured before the Jacobites are wounded.
Before Jamie can give his opinion...
PRINCE CHARLES (forcefully) The British are my father's subjects, and I will have them treated. They must be made to understand that the Scots are waging war on them with the greatest
reluctance. They are our enemies now, but one day soon they will be our friends again.
JAMIE
I'm afraid the British were never friends with the Scots. And as a friend, I would advise you not to talk about it within earshot of men. They would not appreciate such a feeling. Nor do I believe my wife would follow such an order.
PRINCE CHARLES
Of the Prince, maybe not. But Lady Broch Tuarach will surely be obedient to an edict of her lord and master.
Jamie looks at Prince Charles, dismayed to find that the prince is completely serious in his assessment of Jamie and Claire's relationship. For a moment, Jamie thinks about correcting it, then realizes it's not worth it and shrugs his shoulders without committing.
A5TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - JOURA5
Claire and Fergus stand just inside the door, looking at the room that has been turned into a makeshift hospital.
CLEAR
It should work. Now we just need bandages. Many, many bandages.
FERGUS
And nurses. You'll need a lot too, Milady.
5EXT. TRANENT VILLAGE - SIEGE YARD - DAY5
Claire and Jamie are walking around the village. Claire carries a LARGE WICKER BASKET filled with linen to tear into bandages.
You can tell Prince Charles he can kiss my ass.
JAMIE
Knowing the Prince, he would be delighted with the invitation.
CLAIRE
The wounded will be treated as always: the most seriously injured will be treated before the wounded whose lives are not in danger. Regardless of the victim's political or religious beliefs.
JAMIE
I didn't expect any other response from you, Sassenach. (then) This relieves the mind a little, knowing that history declares our side victorious of this commitment.
CLAIRE
I remember Frank and Reverend Wakefield remarking that Prestonpans was a major Jacobite victory.
JAMIE
Well, if it did, then it will be now.
CLAIRE
At least, that's how the story unfolded before I crossed the standing stones.
JAMIE
But how could your presence change the outcome of the battle?
They stop at the entrance of the field hospital.
CLEAR
No idea. Perhaps the mere fact that I am here in the 18th century is a change enough. Perhaps history has deviated from its trajectory so that nothing is certain.
JAMIE
So it's possible we can win in Culloden. Defeat the British once and for all, and place James on the throne.
CLAIRE
It is possible. But, if history is no longer trusted, it is also possible that we will be defeated here in Prestonpans. Despite what I remember.
JAMIE
You don't help cheer me up,
Sassenach.
CLEAR
All I'm saying is that we can't take anything for granted. Not even history.
She kisses Jamie, then enters the hospital.
6CAMP EXT. HIGHLANDER - FEU DE CAMP FRASER - JOUR6
The men, including MURTAGH, Rupert and ANGUS, huddle around a fire trying to warm up in the brisk September wind. Other men include ROSS and KINCAID [Lallybroch men from episode 209]. DOUGAL is a little far away, legs crossed, arms crossed, eyes closed, seeming to take a nap.
Angus takes a sip of beer, pushes Rupert to look, then spits a jet through his missing front teeth and splashes Kincaid's ear. Kincaid looks at Ross, who gives him a shrug. Kincaid turns around to look solemnly into the fire. Angus waits until Kincaid has settled in, then spits out another spray of beer. Angus and Rupert laugh even louder as Kincaid gives Angus a hard look.
KINCAID
Enough!
ANGUS
(false shock) "Enough" you say?
RUPERT
That's what he said. I heard it with those same ears.
ROSS
(attempted peacemaking) The beer you're wasting now is beer you'll probably run out of later. To quench the thirst for combat.
ANGUS
"The thirst for combat", you say? Do you both want battle?
KINCAID
We may be peasants, but we are here, just like you. For blood and glory.
RUPERT
Blood and glory, isn't it? It will not be pigs that you slaughter here, but men. And they will seek to do the same with you.
ROSS
We know our task and we will do what needs to be done to bring the king back to the other side of the water.
Will ANGUS
do it now? Awa an bile yer heid,ye sheep shaggin' gomeril. I bet the bellies of Lallybroch will turn their asses and run away at the first cannon shot.
Kincaid jumps to his feet.
KINCAID
Remove it!
Now it's Angus who stands up and pulls his knife.
ANGUS
Fancy a fight? Go ahead, I'll open you from belly to bone!
Rupert and Ross also stood up.
Suddenly, Murtagh stands up, his own hand on the hilt of his sword.
MURTAGH
Either you put this blade down, or I'll push it in until you taste it.
Angus turns around, now pointing the dirt at Murtagh.
ANGUS
Try it, whore bushy face...
There is a STRONG CRASH as Dougal smashes a bottle into the campfire.
DOUGAL
For Christ's sake, how can I nap with all those who blaspheme?
Just then, Jamie rises, the tension in the air easily noticeable.
JAMIE
Is that a knife I see in your hand, Angus?
Rupert nudges Angus, who puts away his blade.
JAMIE (continued)
I see that you and your commanders get along well.
MURTAGH
Do we have orders, Jamie?
JAMIE
No, and there isn't one either as long as the General and O'Sullivan remain furious with each other.
ANGUS
Yes, it looks like some in the front rows might get a good ass kick!
JAMIE
If only that was all we needed. What is needed is a reconnaissance of the swamp between us and the British - to find out if the ground is strong enough for our army to cross.
KINCAID
So the plan is for us to attack?
JAMIE
If the quartermaster has his way. Although I think it would be a better thing to force the British to come to us. (then) But even O'Sullivan will not accept an attack until the question of the terrain is resolved. And to undertake such a mission under the very guns of the enemy is nothing but suicide. (to all) So, eat and rest. (an afterthought) And keep the whiskey until we have reason to celebrate.
The men nodded.
JAMIE (continued)
Dougal, a word.
Dougal stands up and the two men walk away. As soon as their backs are turned, each Highlander pulls out a BOTTLE and starts drinking.
7EXT. HIGHLANDER CAMP - JOUR7
Jamie and Dougal talk privately.
JAMIE
It would be nice to have someone come out and take the measure of the swamp.
DOUGAL
And get a musket ball between your eyes.
JAMIE
Not if he's careful. And lucky. There is no other way to do it. If the ground supports a man on horseback, he will support the infantry.
DOUGAL
Yes, and is it yourself that you appoint? Because if you survive such madness, the Prince will have your head for endangering the life of one of his most reliable assistants.
JAMIE
Yes, he wouldn't be happy. But someone has to risk doing it.
Both men know what Jamie is asking Dougal. After a beat:
DOUGAL
In this case, all I need is to stay out of reach of their weapons.
JAMIE
One hundred and one meters should do it.
DOUGAL
I thought rather one hundred and five.
JAMIE
Redcoats will be only too happy to shoot at a living, breathable target.
DOUGAL
It's a gamble, but it's worth it. Besides, I wouldn't mind showing my courage to the Prince, Murray and the rest of these rascals.
Jamie agrees, happy that Dougal "volunteered" without being asked.
JAMIE
So, one hundred and five meters?
DOUGAL
Or thereabouts.
A beat, then the two men share a smile at the sheer madness of it all.
8EXT. HIGHLANDER CAMP - DAY - MINUTES LATER8
Dougal's horse trots through the lines of the Highlanders and descends the ridge leading to the town of Preston and the English army. Murtagh, Angus and Rupert are among those who jump on their feet and run to the ridge line where they are joined by Jamie to look at him.
ANGUS
(questioning) Dougal, where are you going?
MURTAGH
The deserted bastard?
RUPERT
Don't be a sumph glaikit. (in Angus) We are tackling the impossible.
ANGUS
Yes, but where is it going?
Jamie grabbed Rupert's arm.
JAMIE
No one is going anywhere.
RUPERT
But he will be shot in hell.
JAMIE
Hell or glory.
9EXT. FLATS BELOW THE RIDGE - JOUR - INTERCUT9
Dougal trotted down the slope, before leaving his horse quietly on the prairie. He then began to ride, back and forth, across the prairie, parallel between the two enemy lines. Feeling the mud of the meadow, his horse becomes nervous, but Dougal slows him down, as the muddy ground below him begins to grow heavier with each hoof print.
DOUGAL
Easy now.
With each crossing, Dougal gets closer and closer to the British lines. The Highlanders watch, silently now, open-mouthed. A lone horseman, so close to the British lines - an answer can not be long in coming. This is not the case. A skirmish line of DOUZE REDCOATS came out of the British position. They shoot a volley of muskets at the figure on horseback.
The bullets whistled in front of Dougal, who kept tight control over his horse, continuing to roam the marshy ground. A second salvo was fired, but Dougal remained unharmed; A small smile of satisfaction curves his lips as he continues to relieve the beast through the heavy mud.
Prince Charles, Murray and O'Sullivan joined Jamie and the other Highlanders.
PRINCE CHARLES
(ref. Dougal) What an extraordinary man.
ANGUS
is Dougal MacKenzie. A personal friend of mine. And you are?
PRINCE CHARLES
I'm Prince Charles Edward Stuart.
Are you really ANGUS
? (to Rupert) Do you end that? I talk to the Prince.
Rupert bows to Charles.
RUPERT
An honour to get acquainted,
Your Royal Highness.
PRINCE CHARLES
Absolutely.
Rupert nudges Angus, who gives an extravagant salute to the Prince.
Dougal's triumphant smile suddenly shatters as his horse takes one last hesitant step before getting bogged down and sending Dougal slipping through the mud. Dougal stands up
and tries to correct the horse by the reins, but his own legs begin to disappear into the ground, quickly enveloping him up to his thighs. The Highlander struggles, his face red, as he engages in a fierce mud-filled fight with the frightened horse.
Other British soldiers have left the camp to cheer on and their fellow gunmen continue to miss Dougal's tempting target.
A great ROAR OF APPROVAL as Dougal's cap is knocked down from his head.
DOUGAL
(to his horse) I think we've learned everything we need to know.
Dougal retrieves his cap and waves it as a farewell to the enemy. He hugs it on his head again, taking a beat to make sure he is well armed. Dougal touches his forehead, studies the BLOOD on his fingers.
DOUGAL (continued)
Yes, absolutely.
And with that, he turned his back on British lines and got his horse out of the meadow. As soon as he reached firmer ground, he got into the saddle and victoriously climbed the ridge to the Jacobite lines.
10EXT. HIGHLANDER CAMP - DAY - END INTERCUT10
Dougal received an enthusiastic reception. He slips off the saddle and is greeted by an impulsive embrace from Prince Charles himself.
PRINCE CHARLES
If I had a hundred men like you, this war would be over tomorrow!
DOUGAL
(struggle for modesty) I do not know, Your Royal Highness, but I fear that it is joyless news that I bring with me.
PRINCE CHARLES
Really. There can be no glorious charge of the Highlanders across the Tranent prairie.
O ' SULLIVAN
Damn it, we can't reach the British – and they can't reach us!
MURRAY
We could disengage under cover of darkness and return to Edinburgh.
PRINCE CHARLES
And wait for the British to lay siege to the city? The enemy is here, General, not in Edinburgh! I am counting on you to break this deadlock or I will have to find another general.
And with that, Prince Charles walks away. Murray looks at O'Sullivan who looks at him happily, the cat waiting to devour the mouse. Murray turns around, the need for a battle plan weighing heavily on his shoulders. Dougal walks past Rupert and Angus and the rest of the admiring crowd, and makes his way to a smiling Jamie.
Jamie turns Dougal's head to better examine his injury.
JAMIE
You're a lucky bastard. Better to look at that.
DOUGAL
A scratch. Nothing more.
Jamie hands Dougal a water bottle filled with water. Dougal takes it, takes off his cap and pours it on his head.
DOUGAL (continued)
And now I'm going to need a change of panties, because the hero of the hour has shit his pants.
The two men share a laugh. It's a moment of connection.
11TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - DAY11
Claire speaks to the half-dozen women who will work as nurses during the battle ahead. FERGUS is there too.
CLAIRE
I understand that your doctor MacPherson left Tranent a few days ago? Fortunately, he left his medical bag behind. The instruments will prove useful, more so than the doctor himself probably would have been. It is therefore up to us to treat the wounded. I have no doubt that together we can do it. (turning to Molly) Molly Cockburn, you're a strap girl. Your job will be to ensure that buckets and buckets are filled at all times. Uses only well water.
MOLLY COCKBURN
Oui, Lady Broch Tuarach.
CLAIRE
(turning to Molly) We don't have time for that. "Claire" will do just fine. (turning to Alice) I'm sorry, I forgot your name.
ALICE
Alice McMurdo, Madame.
CLAIRE
Alice, you will be in charge of the honey water.
ALICE
I'm sorry, I don't know what good fresh water will do for gunshot wounds.
CLEAR
For the injuries themselves, nothing. But this will keep the blood pressure of the victims at a high level.
Women look at her with incomprehension.
CLAIRE
Believe me, it's important. In addition, it will replace the fluids they have lost and help avoid shocks. (in Fergus) Our friend Fergus here will be responsible for maintaining the kettle fires.
FERGUS
(muttering) Women's work.
CLAIRE
What was it, Fergus?
FERGUS
Nothing, Madam.
CLEAR
(to all) I want all wounds cleaned with hot water. And don't forget to wash your hands after treating each patient. Claire turns to Allina.
CLAIRE
Allina Clerk, you have nursing experience, don't you?
ALLINA
I have helped Dr. MacPherson on more than one occasion.
CLAIRE
Wonderful. Now you will help me, if it is to your liking.
ALLINA
I will do what is expected of me.
CLAIRE
Thank you.
Claire indicates a group of wicker baskets filled with LINEN and others.
CLAIRE
Fortunately, we have a lot of bandages on hand. At least, we will do it after tearing all this material into strips. Then everyone grabs a basket and starts tearing.
Women grab baskets and begin the tearing process.
TIME CUT:
12OMIS12
13TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - NIGHT13
Claire presents KNIVES and OTHER INSTRUMENTS from the MEDICAL BAG left by Dr. MacPherson. She places them side by side on a piece of clean LINEN draped on a SMALL TABLE. Several cauldrons filled with water boil within reach while a few women bring emergency buckets. Piles of petticoats sit in a nearby pile while some of the other women have formed a row, tearing and shaving wooden towers to be used for splints.
Claire stops to look up from her work, noticing Alice, the frank lady from earlier. Her eyes are far away as she unthinkingly continues to tear off the larger pieces of wood, lost in thought.
CLAIRE
Alice?
ALICE
Huh?
CLAIRE
Are you okay?
ALICE
Oh... Yes, excuse me, Madam. That's right -- my husband is the laziest man in the village. Always looking for an excuse to refuse a day of honest work. It's been like that since the day we got married. Probably since the day he was born.
Her tears of laughter instantly turn into tears of grief.
ALICE (continued)
But when we talked about this war, he grabbed his pitchfork and walked out before I could even fill his belly.
All women can understand Alice's words, and a silence falls on the play.
CLAIRE
Let's get back to work, ladies.
Their reverie is interrupted by the front door that opens, revealing Fergus, with a thin young man from the village who follows closely, (RICHARD ANDERSON, 20 years old). Fergus walks towards Claire, dragging Anderson by the sleeve of the shirt behind him.
FERGUS
Milady. Milady! This gentleman, he wishes to speak with the commander of His Highness' army. It has information of the utmost importance.
Anderson bows to Claire, awkwardly, as all eyes are now fixed on him.
RICHARD ANDERSON
I'm Richard Anderson, from Whitburgh, Madam.
CLAIRE
(with a nod) Claire Fraser.
RICHARD ANDERSON
Yes, Ms. Fraser. You see, I've lived in these areas all my life. My father owns the land, so I know the soil where armies are like the back of my hand. There is a path that descends from the ridge where the Highland troops are - a small hidden path that will take them beyond the bog at the bottom.
CLAIRE
I see.
RICHARD ANDERSON
If I can speak to a commander, please Mistress. Perhaps Lord Murray himself?
CLAIRE
Fergus, do you think you can find your master?
Fergus' face lights up at the mention of Jamie and the idea of leaving the cottage and joining the men.
FERGUS
Oh yes, I'll find it.
CLAIRE
Very good then. But be careful, and bring him back to talk with Mr. Anderson right away.
Fergus is already walking towards the door before Claire has finished speaking.
FERGUS
Yes, Milady!
14VILLAGE INTERNATIONAL DE TRANENT - QG - NUIT14
Claire, Jamie, Prince Charles, Andrew Macdonald and General Murray are gathered with Anderson around the MAP TABLE. General Murray taps a place on the PARCHMENT with his index finger.
MURRAY
Here, you say?
RICHARD ANDERSON
Yes. Or thereabouts. I don't know much about maps.
JAMIE
But there is no such marked path.
RICHARD ANDERSON
Marked or not, he's there. As I said to Ms. Fraser, it is a narrow, winding path, difficult to spot in daylight and hopeless to find in the dark. Unless you know where to look.
MURRAY(
to Anderson) And you know it? (to Jamie) Fortune falls from the sky and onto our doorstep. Convenient, isn't it?
JAMIE(
to Anderson) And you're ready to drive us across the prairies?
RICHARD ANDERSON
There is no other way to do it. I'm not good at fighting, but I'll take you from here to there without a misstep.
CLAIRE
Thank you, Mr. Anderson. Your help is much appreciated.
PRINCE CHARLES
I wish John was here. I would like to hear his opinion.
MURRAY
He went somewhere to gather the victuals needed by this army.
JAMIE(
to the Prince) A delay could prove fatal, Your Royal Highness.
The Prince signs himself; Sometimes decisions can be so awkward. But a look at the supplication in Claire's eyes makes the decision for him.
PRINCE CHARLES
I could never refuse the pleading eyes of a woman. Even one of royal birth has a weakness or two, I suppose.
The Prince nods to Jamie and Murray.
PRINCE CHARLES
Let's go, gentlemen. We will not come back, unless we bring the victory back with us.
A15TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - NIGHTA15
Claire, Jamie and Fergus walk through the hospital; the battle to come in all their minds.
JAMIE
Try to get some sleep, Sassenach. Tomorrow will be a trying day for all of us.
CLAIRE
I doubt sleep is an option for any of us tonight.
Fergus pulls on Jamie's sleeve.
FERGUS
Milord, I ask permission to join you in the coming battle.
CLAIRE
And who will keep the fires in the hospital?
FERGUS
Someone else can handle such work, I'm sure. I can sneak into General Cope's own tent. I will steal his sword. A general cannot fight without his sword.
JAMIE
I don't doubt your abilities, Fergus. But without you, who will guard women?
FERGUS
The same person who keeps the fires on, I don't know.
JAMIE
And what about Our Lady Broch Tuarach? There is no one I trust more for their safety than you.
MURTAGH (O.C.)
(appel) Jamie.
They see Murtagh, Rupert and Angus waiting for them, solemn glances on all their faces.
CLAIRE
(to Fergus) I'm afraid you'll have to stay here.
Fergus breathes a sigh of frustration like an eleven-year-old, whispers a CURSE IN FRENCH, and then does as he is told.
Claire and Jamie approach the men who are waiting.
CLAIRE
The British don't stand a chance.
Angus approaches Claire, opening his arms wide, as if waiting for her to enter his embrace.
CLAIRE
Angus, isn't there another woman you can kiss goodbye?
RUPERT
None who will have it.
ANGUS
Need I remind you, Mistress, that this time tomorrow I might be lying in a field bleeding to death? I would hate my last thoughts to be the way you refused my last request.
CLAIRE
You are shameless.
She leans over and quickly kisses him on the cheek. Angus begins to smile brightly. Claire looks at Rupert, who seems surprisingly distant.
RUPERT
I won't say goodbye, Claire. It's not necessary, since none of us... (staring at Angus) -- will meet our creator in this place. When we meet, it will be to embrace victory and share a drink.
Holding back her tears, Claire nods.
CLAIRE
(to Murtagh) Watch over Jamie.
MURTAGH
As always. (with quiet urgency) We're going to win today, aren't we? Is this the promise of history?
Claire is no longer sure of anything, but she decides to tell Murtagh what he needs to hear.
CLAIRE
Yes, we will win today.
Murtagh smiled having regained confidence.
MURTAGH
That's what we'll do.
Murtagh joins the other Highlanders. Claire and Jamie come face to face, neither of them knowing what to say.
CLAIRE
On the way soldier.
He grabs her by the arms and gives her a kiss."
B15EXT. TRANENT VILLAGE - HQ COURTYARD - NIGHT - LATERB15
The men, including Angus, Rupert, Ross and Kincaid, made final preparations to move.
ROSS
(to Kincaid) I'm not saying it's going to happen, but if it is, if I have to fall in battle, it would relieve me a lot to know that you will watch over Bess and the croft. And I will do the same for you, if necessary.
The two men cross paths.
KINCAID
Marina and the six bairns? I wouldn't wish them on anyone. (then) There is a full purse buried south of the pigsty. The devil knows where.
ROSS Then it's
settled: what is mine is yours, and yours mine.
Ross spits into the palm of his hand and hands it to Kincaid. After a beat, Kincaid spits into his own palm and shakes his friend's hand.
Angus and Rupert listened to this conversation. That got Angus thinking.
ANGUS
You can have my sword. (then) And my knife. (then, smiling) And my sporran... and everything in it.
RUPERT
What are you talking about?
ANGUS
Didn't you hear those two? His is his, and mine is yours.
RUPERT
What would I do with a sword that has never been used?
ANGUS
Do you think I need a blade from a slobbering man? And I'll leave you Scarlet too.
RUPERT
Scarlet a whore?
ANGUS
Fucking part-time. Full-time bartender.
RUPERT
It's not up to you to give, bastard of conviction.
ANGUS
And I say it is. And I'm going to give it to you. Do you accept?
RUPERT
No. Now close it before you attract the purple eye.
Rupert leaves, leaving behind a disappointed Angus. After a while, Angus crosses paths. It is worth being careful.
Nearby, Jamie looks at Murtagh, who sharpens his sword at a stone for a long time. No matter how sharp the edge, it is not sharp enough to fit the Highlander.
JAMIE
If you don't stop, you're going to turn that blade into a needle.
Murtagh continues to sharpen the sword.
JAMIE (continued)
If you have things to say, go for it.
MURTAGH
It's just... You see, in a raid, every man has a role to play. You tell yourself that the success or failure of the raid depends on your own actions. And if you're forced to hurt a man, even kill him, chances are you'll look him in the eye while doing it. And if you have to be killed, you die knowing that your memory will live on within your clan. Then death will have meaning.
JAMIE
So far, I can't find anything to complain about.
MURTAGH
But that's different. We are part of an army of about two thousand men. My death, your death, alone would have no meaning. Five hundred. A thousand of them should be killed before our death makes sense.
JAMIE
This is not a very comforting thought on the eve of the battle.
MURTAGH Yes, and it weighs
on me. I was always looking forward to a raid. The excitement, the challenge, the hell would make it difficult for me. But this war, this battle, I can't wait for it to be over.
JAMIE
If these are comforting words you're waiting for, I don't have any. In Paris, I almost lost my marriage trying to prevent all this from happening. I failed.
MURTAGH
We failed.
JAMIE
If it's any consolation, I feel pretty much the same as you.
After a while, Murtagh places the whetstone in his sporran, then looks at Jamie.
MURTAGH
Yes, it is.
The two men share a wry smile.
15TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - NIGHT15
Claire walks in, while the women look up with nervous anticipation. Claire manages to smile.
CLAIRE
Rest. All of you, it's an order.
Claire walks past the INSTRUMENT TABLE. She notices that one of the knives is missing. That's weird. She looks around the room to find Fergus, but there is no sign of the boy.
CLAIRE
Did anyone see Fergus?
ALICE
He was there, Madam. But he left almost immediately. He didn't tell me where.
CLAIRE
Did any of you borrow a knife here?
The question is greeted by empty looks from the ladies.
16OMIS16
17EXT. TRANENT MEADOWS - FRONT DE MARS - NUIT17
Jamie and Murtagh walk alongside Anderson at the right time. Murtagh sinks ankle-deep into the mud. He is not happy about it. Jamie helps her and they keep going.
Fergus, invisible to Jamie and Murtagh, walks at the back of the long line of Highlanders trudging along the thin defile. Fergus checks under his coat, grabbing the handle of the SURGICAL BLADE he slipped under his belt. Unlike the sinister-faced men around him, the boy seems light and impatient, confident that he is on a great adventure.
18OMIS18
19EXT. PRESTONPANS - AUBE19
The plains outside Preston Village. A thick haze makes visibility a matter beyond a dozen meters. The tired Highlanders are assembled in rows. In the back, Jamie stands alongside Prince Charles, Murray, O'Sullivan, Anderson and the rest of the command staff.
RICHARD ANDERSON
I'm going to leave you now, if it's good for you, General?
JAMIE
I'm not a general, but all of Scotland is indebted to you.
But Anderson has already recast into the darkness they came from. Jamie turns to The Prince and Murray.
JAMIE (continued)
Lord General, you will verify that the Prince is kept here out of danger.
MURRAY
I will.
But the Prince is not enthusiastic.
PRINCE CHARLES
Gentlemen, need I remind you that this is my army? I have a great desire to lead it in battle, which is my right and my destiny. (then) I carry a sword and am trained in its use.
JAMIE
I have no doubt. But Your Royal Highness must realize that rebellion will never survive your death. Moreover, reclaiming the throne would not mean as much for King James if the son who made it possible was not there to share this moment with him.
PRINCE CHARLES
(reflected) A touching feeling. Mind you, I don't think my father likes me very much.
JAMIE
Nevertheless, you will stay behind the lines with the Lord General and the Quartermaster.
A disappointed Charles nods.
TIME CUT:
20EXT. PRESTONPANS - AUBE20
Jamie joins the base, making his way between Murtagh and Dougal, who stands next to Angus and Rupert. Jamie looks at Ross and Kincaid, both wearing their best playing faces, but betrayed by the anxiety in their eyes. Jamie nods to the encouragement, strengthening their resolve. Highlanders pull their weapons out of their kilts, scythes and axes are brandished in preparation for the coming assault and glow wickedly in the darkness.
From the back, a WHISPERED ORDER is transmitted.
VOICE
Get ready to move forward.
The men march forward, as dawn rises on the horizon; although for the moment this has little impact on the soupy mist that still envelops Prestonpans.
The Highlander lines crawl forward through the mist. Five meters... Ten meters... Fifteen meters. And then, through the mist, they see a sentry leaning on his musket. As he sees Jamie running towards him, the sword raised for a fatal blow...
SENTINEL
God's mercy!
Without hesitation, Jamie raises his sword and drops it on the sentry skull. Then we hear the bagpipes screaming, and the Highlanders let out their rallying cry as they charge.
[We will see a quick shot of Fergus, knife in hand, screaming euphoria as he runs with the Highlanders towards the British lines.]
We hear the ROAR OF THE CANNON and suddenly one of the HIGHLANDERS running alongside Jamie is killed. For a moment, Jamie is blinded by BLOOD and pieces of BODY PARTS that are better not to describe, but he wipes his eyes and keeps moving forward.
The Battle of Prestonpans has begun.
21INT. TRANENT VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - DAWN21
Back to the stage that opened the show, with Claire and the nurses reacting to the sound of the BEGINNING OF THE BATTLE.
CLEAR
(quiet, but firm) Throw more wood on the fire. We're going to need a lot of hot water.
And as women rush to do what they are ordered...
TIME CUT:
22TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - DAY22
The cottage fills with injured men and the women rush to cope with the construction workload. The wounded are Jacobites, so Claire doesn't have to worry about Prince Charles' edict on treating the British first.
The men are brought on makeshift stretchers made of planks, or muskets tied together. Some rely on the arms of friends for support, others stagger on their own. And although the wounded have pale faces and groan because of their pain, there is an exuberance among them - a feeling of glorious revenge. Some of the wounded were Lallybroch's men. In the middle of the room stands a haunted looking Ross, holding Kincaid's bloodied body in his arms. Claire, her face covered in sweat, her apron and her hands already stained with blood, rushes over.
CLAIRE
Ross, come with me.
Claire leads Ross to a TABLE, where he places Kincaid, whose open eyes silently look to a place only he can see. A quick exam is enough for Claire to realize that it is too late.
CLAIRE
(to Ross) Sorry.
ROSS
Pardon?
CLAIRE
He's gone.
Alice calls him across the room:
ALICE
Claire !
Claire has no choice but to hurry to care for another patient, leaving a stunned Ross to look at his friend's body. After a while, Ross lowers himself to the ground
and buries his head in his hands - the events of the last half hour cross his mind.
23EXT. PRESTONPANS - DAWN - FLASHBACK23
Ross and Kincaid, screaming with Jamie and the others as they engage the British army, cutting off any red coat they approach. The British lines do not hold, but while the red coats turn to run, a man remains to fire his musket. The bullet hits Kincaid right in the chest, immobilizing him in the middle of the stride.
But nothing is going to stop the Highlanders this morning. They are in a killing spree as they jostle the enemy. The battle quickly becomes butchery. It's not a pretty sight.
24TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - CV24
Molly Cockburn ran through the door, carrying two buckets of water, screaming in fear:
MOLLY COCKBURN
The British! The British are among us!
Claire and the other nurses look up in shock. Is that true? Was the battle lost? Just then, red coats begin to pour into the building. The British are there, but they are all victims of the battle. The brief panic caused by Molly's warning quickly died out. Claire and the women rush to tend to the newly injured.
CLAIRE
Allina, help me sort these men by the severity of their injuries!
ALLINA
(to various wounded) You two over there. Put this man on a table.
Just then, Angus enters, a bloody bruise on his forehead. He supports a white-faced Rupert, who has a nasty gash from his rib cage to his hip that pumps blood. He helps Rupert moan, barely conscious, on a table, then rushes to Claire who is about to examine another patient.
ANGUS
Rupert, he needs you, Mistress!
CLAIRE
Rupert? I'll be right there.
But Angus isn't ready to stand in line. He grabs Claire by the arm.
ANGUS
Now!
The fear and panic in Angus' eyes is enough to convince Claire.
CLAIRE
(to Allina) Take over.
Allina takes Claire's place as she hurries to leave with Angus. Claire rips off Rupert's coat and shirt so she can examine the wound. It doesn't look good.
ANGUS
You must save him, Mistress. I won't let this big leggbag die before me.
Molly approaches with a handful of CLEAN CLOTHS that Claire takes and puts against the wound, trying to stop the flow of blood.
CLAIRE
Molly, we need to close this wound before the infection sets in. I'm going to need hot water, wire and one of the big needles.
Molly goes to get the necessary items. Suddenly, Rupert screams and goes into agony. He barks in Claire's face:
RUPERT
Angus is alive? Tell me!
Her energy exhausted, Claire is able to bring Rupert back to the table. She makes him drink from a vial to knock him out.
CLAIRE
(to Angus) What is he talking about?
ANGUS
A cannon shot. It's nothing.
Molly arrives with the needle and thread.
CLAIRE
(to Angus) Hold his shoulders, in case he wakes up. Molly, her legs.
25TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - DAY - MONTAGE25
PLAN of Claire sewing the serrated notch. It's not "Grey's Anatomy" — it's field sorting around 1745.
Claire has nothing but a thick thread and an even thicker needle. It does not create a work of art; if Rupert survives, he will have a nasty scar the length of his torso that he could boast for the rest of his life.
26TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - DAY - LATER26
Claire washes her bloodied hands in a bucket of water, Angus watching over Rupert.
ANGUS
Tell me the truth, Mistress, will he live?
CLAIRE
I would like to know. He is strong, and if the wound does not become infected...
Angus signs himself.
CLAIRE
Now, let me take a look at that head. (wound check) Your eyes seem clear. Nausea?
ANGUS
I told you I'm fine.
CLAIRE
Well, if it's something, it's a mild concussion. You can stay here near Rupert, but no nap. I want you to stay awake.
ANGUS
I admit that I am tired, but I will keep two eyes on this big belly that goes up and down.
CLAIRE
As long as that's the case, there's hope.
Claire returns to work, leaving Angus to watch Rupert's breathing.
A27EXT. PRESTONPANS - DAWN - FLASHBACKA27
The battle has turned into a rabbit hunt as British forces flee in terror, pursued by bloodthirsty and triumphant Highlanders. Only one British Dragoon Officer, Colonel James Gardner, sat atop his steed, unwilling to admit defeat.
GARDNER
(desperate) Damn everyone, hold on you dogs! Don't turn your back on these traitors!
But the soldiers continue their retreat. Gardner rammed his horse, galloping headfirst into a pack of Jacobite soldiers. As he gets closer, Rupert quickly becomes his target - his attention is momentarily focused on one of his fallen comrades, leaving his guard open. The colonel's blade viciously slices Rupert's body. As Rupert falls, the colonel rolls his horse to strike another blow - A shot rings out. Gardner was struck in the forehead, falling from his horse.
We SEE Angus, the smoke still coming from the gun in his hand. As Angus heads to his friend ashore - BOOM! - A cannon shot hits several meters from Angus, causing him to fall to the ground.
B27TRANENT INTERNATIONAL VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - CVB27
As Jamie and Murtagh enter. They are both dirty, splattered with blood, legs and feet covered in mud, but unharmed. Jamie steps forward, grabs Claire by the waist in an adrenaline-fueled celebration.
JAMIE
This day is ours. The British were routed. General Cope retreated, leaving behind hundreds of dead and wounded.
MURTAGH
And our losses cannot exceed fifty men. The whole thing
took fifteen minutes.
JAMIE
If only we had had cavalry, we could have pursued the enemy, captured General Cope, and perhaps put an end to the rebellion this very morning.
This is good news, but Claire is still uncomfortable.
CLAIRE
Have you seen Fergus? He ran away to fight, I'm sure.
JAMIE
Dinna fash, Sassenach. Take a look outside.
Claire runs to the front door.
27EXT. TRANENT VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - CONTINU27
Indeed, there is Fergus, sitting straddling one of General Cope's requisitioned cannons.
Claire runs to him and shakes him.
CLAIRE
Wretched! What does it mean to sneak in like that?! I should pull your ears until your head rattles.
Claire hugs the boy.
FERGUS
(perplexed) Milady... Milady...
Fergus' voice is dull, lacking the exuberance of victory. Claire holds it at arm's length and studies it. He seems dazed, perplexed by what he has just been through.
CLAIRE
Are you okay?
FERGUS
I killed an English soldier, Milady.
CLAIRE
Don't tell me that.
FERGUS
I think I killed him. He fell. I had a knife. I hit him.
CLAIRE
Oh Fergus, I'm so sorry. You're not hurt, are you?
FERGUS
Non, Milady.
The boy swings on his feet.
FERGUS (continued)
I'm just -- tired. Very, very tired.
CLAIRE
Come with me, we will find you food and a place to sleep.
Fergus nods, but it's not even clear if he understands what she's saying. They walk to one of the other cottages. After a few steps, an exhausted Fergus rests his head against Claire. She places a protective arm around his shoulder, helping him support him on their way.
A28EXT. PRESTONPANS - JOURA28
The battle is over but the killings continue.
An exultant Dougal pursues a BRITISH SOLDIER. The terrified redcoat, knowing he can't run the long-legged Highlander, turns around and raises his bayonet in self-defense. Dougal knocks him out. Dougal holds the soldier by the collar, so he can watch life take his eyes off before pulling out his sword and letting the body fall to the ground. Looking around the field for another target, Dougal hears:
VOICE (O.C.)
(a tense whisper) Dougal MacKenzie.
Dougal looks at the spot where a seriously wounded British officer sits slumped against a cannon carriage. Dougal approaches and we recognize LIEUTENANT FOSTER [our young lieutenant from episodes 105 and 106].
DOUGAL
I know you?
LIEUTENANT FOSTER
Lieutenant Jeremy Foster. I accompanied you and Dame Claire Beauchamp to the village of Brockton.
Dougal sheathed his sword and crouched down next to Foster.
DOUGAL
Aye, the only honorable redcoat among Lord Thomas' staff.
LIEUTENANT FOSTER
I would be very grateful if you would take me to your infirmary.
DOUGAL
Do you expect me to take you back to Tranent? I still have work to do here.
LIEUTENANT FOSTER
Isn't your thirst for slaughter yet quenched? You have won a great victory today.
DOUGAL
And I bet there will be many more to follow.
LIEUTENANT FOSTER
(shaking his head) A warlord should know better. I tell you candidly: you cannot defeat the British army. You have won a battle, but you will never win this war.
DOUGAL
God alone knows the answer to this question.
Dougal pulls out his knife and sticks it into Foster's stomach. Foster dies. Dougal pats the dead lieutenant's cheek.
DOUGAL (continued)
If so, I will look for you in hell.
Dougal removes his dirt and stands up - on the lookout for other victims.
28INT. TRANENT VILLAGE - FIELD HOSPITAL - DAY28
Jamie and Murtagh stand with Angus, looking at Rupert.
MURTAGH
(to Angus) Dinna fash yourself, the fat probably protected his entrails.
This elicits a small smile from Angus.
ANGUS
Yes, it was those third portions he swallowed that protected him.
JAMIE
The man could eat. (realizing) Can eat, I meant.
Angus swings on his feet.
JAMIE (continued) Everything is fine now, you look tired.
ANGUS
This is only a temporary weakness. It's been a long night.
CLAIRE (O.C.)
What happened here?
Claire, who has just entered the cottage, approaches. She notices a distinct, muddy mark on the back of Jamie's shirt. It looks a lot like a horseshoe.
CLAIRE
It looks like you were trampled by a horse.
JAMIE
That's because I was. The English were in such a retreat that an officer galloped just above me.
She rummages through her medical kit and pulls out a GLASS URONOSCOPY CUP from L'Hôpital des Agnès.
CLAIRE
Fill it out. (out of Jamie's gaze) You had the mark of a four-hundred-pound horse on your loins. I want to know if there is blood in your urine.
All eyes are on Jamie as he takes Claire's cup. Meanwhile, Angus looks around to see Ross sitting near Kincaid's corpse. The two men look at each other for a moment.
ROSS
We didn't run away.
After a while, Angus nodded.
BACK TO Jamie, who still holds the cup. He offers it to a British soldier.
JAMIE
Hold this to me while I aim.
This provokes laughter from the wounded Scots and Britons.
SOLDIER #1
Six pence says you can't do it from where you stand.
He puts the cup on the floor about four feet away from Jamie.
JAMIE
Well, I'm not saying it's going to be easy, but for six pence I'll make the effort.
SOLDIER #1
(to other British wounded) I knew this day would end with victory, guys.
Claire rolls her eyes but won't intervene, as long as Jamie does what she demands of him.
MURTAGH
Ten cents of silver on Jamie.
JAMIE
Where are you going to roll ten cents of silver?
Murtagh thought about it.
MURTAGH
A bag of pipe weed on Jamie.
Random bets are called out between the wounded Scottish and British.
Jamie stands in front of the cup, bends down and rummages under his kilt.
JAMIE
I know I had it when I came out.
The room bursts out laughing. We don't see him, but Jamie
finally finds his member, pulls it out - but nothing happens.
SOLDIER #1
It's a dud!
MURTAGH
What's wrong Jamie, your powder is wet?
SOLDIER #1
No bullets to your gun.
JAMIE
My room is empty, that's all.
He grabs a bottle of water and pours it into his mouth, draining it. He stares at himself once more.
MURTAGH
Now, shut up if you want, let the man concentrate.
The room calms down, but after a while, Jamie feels it's not because of him. He looks up to see Prince Charles standing in the doorway. The prince looks solemn, tired, and surprisingly humble as he scans the wounded who fill the room. He nods to Claire.
PRINCE CHARLES
Ms. Fraser, your efforts on our behalf are much appreciated.
CLAIRE
(curvature) Your Royal Highness. Pay attention to the blood, the floor is a little slippery.
PRINCE CHARLES
(to the assembled men) I bring you my father's blessing and gratitude. Your actions today will be remembered forever. If we had achieved this victory over foreigners, my joy would be complete. But as is the case with the English, it threw a damp chill in my heart. I tell all of you: I came here in the interests of both our countries. Which, in truth, is only one country.
The Prince bows his appreciation. Just then, Dougal enters. Excited, a bottle of beer in his hand - his crazy eyes coming out triumphantly from his blood-speckled face.
DOUGAL
The victory is ours! Let the writing of the ballads begin!
With a stumble, Dougal enters the room - more British wounded than Highlanders, but the nurses work on all the men apparently in the same way. Dougal's face quickly darkened.
DOUGAL (continued) (to the ladies)
What is it, then? Do you want to take care of these bastards as if they were your own parents?
No response from the room.
DOUGAL (continued)
Damn it!
CLAIRE
Dougal--
DOUGAL
I say we have put an end to these here and now!
Dougal's hand moves to his sword. Jamie quickly stands up behind him, placing a firm hand on his handle, making sure it stays sheathed.
JAMIE
I believe the British have learned a lesson this morning that they will not soon forget. The murder of these men will add nothing to our victory.
DOUGAL
Do you call these pigs "men"?
PRINCE CHARLES (O.C.)
Yes. Men – and my father's subjects.
In his bloodlust, Dougal hadn't even realized that Charles was in the room. It's a sobering moment as the Prince steps forward to confront the former warlord.
PRINCE CHARLES
And each of them is your brother. My God, sir, where is your Christian charity?
Dougal's chastened gaze falls to the ground.
PRINCE CHARLES
(turning to Jamie) James, remove this gentleman from the roll immediately. There is no room for such gratuitous contempt for my English countrymen in my army.
There are no words to have, and with a solemn nod to the Prince, Dougal turns his back and walks to the door, but Jamie's words stop him:
JAMIE
Your Royal Highness, if I may say so, as misguided as his anger may be, Dougal MacKenzie is a true warrior, I know that. And if this army is to triumph, we will need all the warriors we can muster.
PRINCE CHARLES
Yes James, and a fast horse will undoubtedly win the race, but what good is it when his master is thrown off his saddle in the process? What should I do with such a bloodthirsty barbarian?
Thinking fast, Jamie has a flash of inspiration.
JAMIE
We promote it, Your Highness. As captain of the newly formed Highlander Dragons. Provide him with fifteen of our best riders and horses. Let them follow the enemy, account for his troop movements and harass his supply lines. In this way, we use his abilities while ensuring that Your Highness never has to lay eyes on him.
The Prince ponders Jamie's idea, then signs himself in agreement.
PRINCE CHARLES
You have the most ingenious mind, Fraser. (in Dougal) You are indebted to him, rogue. Make sure that he does not come to lament his benevolence.
And with that, the Prince comes out of the cottage.
DOUGAL
(to Jamie)
Thank you, boy. Oh, really. And I promise you I won't have to regret your generosity. (with a sly smile) But I know what you're doing. You defend me and exile me, both at the same time. A plan worthy of my brother Colum.
Jamie smiled back, happy that they both understood each other. Dougal looks and sees Angus and Rupert, then steps forward.
DOUGAL (continued)
Angus, how's Rupert?
No answer from Angus.
DOUGAL (continued)
Talk to me man, he's also my friend.
Angus looks up. There is BLOOD flowing from his mouth. He is pale and sweaty, and clearly disoriented.
DOUGAL (suite)
Claire !
Claire and the others rush in:
CLAIRE
Angus?
ANGUS I'm
cold.
He collapses from the bench, and she grabs him in her arms and takes him to the ground. Claire frantically searches Angus' body. She feels his belly, then tears his shirt. Its belly is swollen and deep purple-red.
CLEAR
MY God--
JAMIE
There must be something you can do?
But Claire knows better. She looks up at the men and shakes her head in despair.
CLAIRE
The explosion of the cannon. He bled inwardly all this time.
Angus' hands grip Claire, her eyes wide with surprise and fear. Another drop of BLOOD comes out of his mouth. He struggles to breathe, but chokes on his own blood. It's horrible to watch. His blows weaken, and just like that, while the others are helpless, Angus Mhor dies.
Shock and silence descend on them all, who is suddenly broken by a cry of anger and effort. All eyes turn to a pale, sweaty Rupert, who rises from the table and slowly staggers to where Angus is. Jamie goes to help Rupert, who shrugs resolutely. With Herculean effort, Rupert lowers himself and slips the sword out of Angus' scabbard. He holds her tenderly against his chest, looking at his friend, then turns and staggers towards the table.
We remain on the painting of Claire, Jamie, Murtagh and Dougal standing around Angus' body. Nothing to do.
29-31OMIS29-31
32EXT. HIGHLANDER CAMP - NIGHT - LATER32
The army is in the midst of a noisy victory celebration. In the back of a wagon, Fergus throws himself into a tired sleep. Claire watches Jamie and Murtagh, both sober as church mice, pack their load.
JAMIE
We will spend a few days in Edinburgh to refuel before continuing to London.
CLAIRE
It will take at least as long to transport the injured.
JAMIE
Murtagh will stay with a patrol during our trip.
MURTAGH
Although I doubt there is an English soldier a few miles away.
Their attention turns to a heavily bandaged Rupert, who staggers through the camp, arm in arm with Ross, singing drunken a song praising their fallen comrades.
RUPERT/ROSS:
"Here is health for the king, and lasting peace, let the faction end and wealth increase. Come, let us drink it while we have breath, for there is no drink after death. And he who would like this toast will deny: Down among the dead, down among the dead, below, down, down, down; In the midst of the dead, let him lie!... »
A drunken Dougal stumbles upon them, his mood oscillating between the joy of the Jacobite victory and the anger of his shame at Prince Charles.
MURTAGH
I expected the flavor of victory to taste sweeter.
JAMIE
Yes. War leaves a bitter taste, no matter the outcome.
MURTAGH
I can't help but think that if we had killed the Prince in Paris, Angus and the others would be alive here in Scotland today.
JAMIE
What's done is done. And what could have been is only false consolation.
All three stand there listening to the sounds of ictoire.
Well
, Claire, it turns out you were right about Prestonpans after all.
CLAIRE
Indeed (then) Which means that I am also right about the disaster that awaits us in Culloden.
Despite the joyful songs that surround them, the three friends can't help but feel a sense of descending unhappiness.
CROSSFADE
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