Season 2 Episode 11   

"Vangeance is mine"   

   

WRITTEN BY: DIANA GABALDON  

 

 

 

A1EXT. JACOBITE ENCAMPMENT - DERBY, ENGLAND - DAY1
As the CAMERA moves through the encamped Jacobite army, now FIVE THOUSAND MEN...
The
Jacobite army had moved steadily south in the months since Prestonpans. We had acquired much artillery en route, took the English garrison at Carlisle, and successfully occupied Manchester. Despite this, the anticipated sympathetic uprising in the Scottish lowlands and northern England had so far not materialised. We were now camped in Derby, waiting for new orders from Prince Charles...

 

B1INT. MEDICAL AREA CANVAS - DAYB1
CLEAR, caring for various patients, civilians and soldiers, just outside a tavern where Prince Charles, Jamie and other advisers discuss their upcoming moves. A HIGHLANDER WOMAN SETTLES INTO AN ARMCHAIR FOR DENTAL CARE, MURTAGH PACES NEAR THE DOOR OF THE TAVERN, SOMETIMES EXCHANGING GLANCES WITH CLAIRE.

 

1INT. TAVERN - BACK ROOM - DAY1 

CLOSE-UP ON A MAP OF SCOTLAND AND ENGLAND, with markers on it, replacing the Jacobite and British armies. A line drawn on the map shows the journey the Jacobite army made through Scotland to bring them to Derby.

ZOOM TO REVEAL JAMIE, grabbing the shoulder of PRINCE CHARLES STUART, who is wearing a tartan coat. It is difficult to say whether he offers his support or whether he holds the Prince in his seat. The room is filled with the Prince's advisors, including LORD GENERAL GEORGE MURRAY, QUARTERMASTER COLONEL JOHN WILLIAM O'SULLIVAN, ANDREW
MACDONALD and the rest of the clan chiefs.

MURRAY
Your Royal Highness, I know how painful this must be for you, but the truth is often vexing. We have to turn back.

PRINCE CHARLES
And I say we won't. London is within our reach, all we have to do is reach out and take it! (to O'Sullivan) John? This is no time for silence. Talk man.
O'Sullivan reluctantly does what the Prince asks.

O ' SULLIVAN
I'm sorry, Your Royal Highness. As you know, the Lord General and I rarely agree. But I fear that, in this case, we will speak with one voice.

PRINCE CHARLES
I have to say that you have chosen a damn awkward moment to be conciliatory.

JAMIE(
to Murray) And I would say the same to you, My Lord General.

Murray bristles at Jamie's accusation.

MURRAY
Fraser, you have proven that you possess a sound military mind. But I will not have my decision challenged by a junior officer. Am I clear, sir?

But Jamie refuses to back down.

JAMIE
And what about the prince's decision? Do we not all serve him and his noble cause? His orders were to march on England and take London. We are only five days away from reaching this city, and now you are ordering us to turn back and retire to Scotland.

PRINCE CHARLES
Five days, gentlemen. Only five days is all that separates us from the accomplishment of God's will.

Murray gestures towards the markers and the card.

MURRAY
It is not the five days that concern me, but the three British armies that stand between us and London, and we do not know where the two are.

JAMIE
It is unlikely that we will meet all three at the same time, My Lord. And if we are astute and lucky, we could succeed in surpassing them all.

MacDonald stepped forward, speaking on behalf of all the clan chiefs.

MACDONALD
Yes, what if we don't? The British have thirty thousand soldiers, whereas we have gathered only five. A good fight and we would be too weak to continue.

JAMIE
That war comes as no surprise. But if we go back now, we will extinguish the hope that currently resides in the hearts of our supporters and replace it with doubt and fear.

MURRAY
Support, sir? What support? Show it to me. It is said that the south is full of Jacobite sympathizers. Have you seen any? Have any come forward to offer supplies or assistance?

JAMIE
Yes, but any man who takes care of his purse puts his bet on a rooster who wins. And by the time we take London – the moment the Stuart banner flies over Westminster again – every man in the kingdom will see us as the winning side... And they will want to place their bets accordingly. (to Prince Charles) But if we lose heart now, if we turn our tails and flee for safety, our future will be one of defeat and disaster.

O ' SULLIVAN

You predict disaster as if the outcome were not in doubt.

MURRAY
(sarcastic) Fraser may know something we don't.

MACDONALD
Know this, all of you: Fraser here seriously wounded my sons in battle, protecting the life of a molly from an English duke.

JAMIE
What do you mean MacDonald?

MACDONALD
That you are not only a sodomite, but also a traitor in league with the British.

The two men get closer to each other. Chaos erupts.

 

2MEDICAL AREA COVERED WITH INTERNATIONAL CANVAS - DAY2 

Claire gropes in the Highlander patient's worried-looking open mouth, a pair of toothclips in her other hand. During her speech, Claire glances anxiously at Murtagh - still nothing. Several other HIGHLANDERS (and a few wives) crowd into the area, filling the benches and sitting on the floor. RUPERT sits sitting, drinking morosely, a worried boy and his MOTHER sitting on the bench next to him.

CLAIRE
Is it this one?

PATIENT
Gaaaagh!

Waiting patients flinch at the PAWP of PAIN.

CLAIRE
Good. Now, get ready... It won't take long, I promise...

VIEW of Rupert, blinking as Claire pulls out the tooth. The boy next to him grinds his teeth at his mother. Rupert leans over him...

RUPERT
Dinna fash you, my boy. My friend Angus, he lost his front teeth when he was just a little boy; A cow kicked them directly in the throat. He said he didn't shit for a week, for fear of being bitten.

The mother pulls the horrified boy a little closer as Rupert nods and has another drink.

 

3INTERNATIONAL TAVERN - BACK ROOM - DAY3 

Restrained by his fellow clan chiefs, MacDonald is still trying to reach Jamie. Prince Charles intervenes between the two men.

PRINCE CHARLES
Enough.

MacDonald and Jamie withdrew. Clan leaders are backing down.

PRINCE CHARLES (continued)
I see that you prefer to fight among yourselves rather than confront the enemy. Believe me, such an awareness grieves me to the core. (then) I sailed from Italy to raise an army. This army. It was God's wish that I do it. Since then, his hand has always been with us – he gave us that precious chance at victory. If we reject His divine gift, there is no guarantee that He will be offered again. (then) Is there no one among you who is still willing to support your Prince, your rightful King and your God?

The prince's words put everyone to shame when they heard. But only Jamie moves to stand side by side with the Prince.

PRINCE CHARLES (continued)
A man. Is that all I can count on? This is intolerable. I would rather be crossed by a British bayonet and my body buried in an unmarked grave than turn around after traveling so far. But I now see that I am betrayed by both my friends and allies. Do what you must, but may God condemn you all to hell for it. I will say no more.

And with that, with his head held high, the Prince walks out of the room. After a beat, O'Sullivan rushed after him. After a long uncomfortable pace...

MURRAY
Alert the men as we march towards Scotland.

A sinister Jamie can only watch the clan leaders get away with it.

 

4MEDICAL AREA COVERED WITH INTERNATIONAL CANVAS - DAY4 

Claire tries to get the boy to the dental chair.

CLAIRE
Everything is fine, really. Not everyone needs a pulled tooth.

The boy falls back on his mother, who smiles apologetically.

CLAIRE (continued) (to Rupert)
What did you say to her?

RUPERT
Only the truth.

He is cut off as Prince Charles walks through the area, clearly furious, and his advisers follow in a storm cloud of discontent. Claire and Murtagh share a look - it doesn't bode well - and their hypothesis is confirmed when Jamie leaves the tavern last, his face gloomy.

 

5-6OMIS5-6 

7EXT. JACOBITE ENCAMPMENT - DAY - MINUTES LATER7 

Jamie and Claire walk and talk.

JAMIE
I have to give credit to the Prince. It turns out that he has a fighting man's heart. (bitter chuckle) I'm sorry, Sassenach.

CLEAR
It's not your fault. And even if you had persuaded them to take London, they might not have been able to hold it.

JAMIE
No, but if we marched on London, it would be different from what you said in the history books. That would mean that -- that maybe, things could be changed. But now...

They are interrupted by the approach of a small group of MATAYERS from LALLYBROCH, led by ROSS.

ROSS
Mon Laird -- is that true? Do we turn back?

JAMIE
(pulls himself together) Yes. We will go back to the other side of the border. At home -- for the winter.

Sharecroppers exchange looks mixed with dismay and relief. Someone whispers, "At home... ».

Are
the English after us, then? Are they close?

JAMIE
I can't say, Ross. But I promise you - I promise you all - that I will see you safe and sound in Lallybroch, no matter what happens.

General sighs and nods, GAELIC MURMURES; They have complete confidence in him. Jamie and Claire stand close to each other, watching the men leave. He turns to her.

JAMIE (continued) (gently)
And you, Sassenach. I'll see you safe. It doesn't matter what happens.

 

8INTERNATIONAL HOSTEL - ROOM - NIGHT8 

ON Claire, asleep. We hear Jamie's voice speaking Gaelic, very softly.

JAMIE (O.C.)
(in Gaelic)

May God protect my beloved, my
white dove – and the child
she can carry. Protect it
from violence and
evil. In this place and in every place, this night and
every night.
NOUVELLZ VIEW OF Jamie sitting next to the bed, his hand just touching Claire's sprawling hair. She slowly wakes up and turns around to face him.

CLAIRE
Are you okay?

JAMIE
I'm fine. I just wanted to watch you sleep in peace for a while.

CLAIRE
You must be cold as ice, Jamie, come in, for heaven's sake.

She throws the blanket, drawing him in. They huddle together.

CLAIRE (continued) (sleepy) What were you saying?

JAMIE
Ach, nothing... (he sniffs) There's not much I can say when you're awake, without it sounding stupid and silly, Sassenach.

(he brings her closer, whispering) But I can say things while you sleep and I hope you hear me in your dreams.

 

R9INTERNATIONAL HOSTEL - STAIRWELL - DAYBREAKR9 

Dougal climbs the stairs to Jamie and Claire's room, angry.

 

9INTERNATIONAL HOSTEL - ROOM - SUNRISE9 

Claire and Jamie are getting dressed, when there is a violent POUNDING on the door. Jamie opens it to find DOUGAL, looking thunderous, with a NOTE clutched in his hand. He pushes into the room, pushing the note into Jamie's chest.

DOUGAL
Read this!

JAMIE
(reading)
"My lord Broch Tuarach, you are hereby ordered to proceed immediately with your men to... Inverness"? (in Dougal) What is it?

DOUGAL
Exile, that's what it is. They get rid of us, of you. O'Sullivan fears that you have too much influence on The Prince. And Murray did nothing to defend you. They want
you – and me – to leave now. Bastards without ballock.

Claire gets up and picks up Jamie's note, reading it.

CLAIRE
"... Proceed in advance of the army, organize winter quarters, obtain provisions... "-- get provisions? How? With what money?

DOUGAL
Yes, I asked O'Sullivan myself. He put his Irish nose in the air and said His Highness' loyal supporters in Inverness would "of course" do honour to his representative.

CLAIRE Of
course.

JAMIE
I'm going to see the Prince myself and...

DOUGAL
(shakes his head, furious) He's gone. Murray took him before dawn. The prince was riding Donas - he said he knew you wouldn't mind.

Jamie stands still, thinking. Claire and Dougal are waiting to see what he will do. After a beat, he sighs from situation, determined to make the best of a bad situation.

JAMIE
In this case... Sassenach, how long have you been visiting Inverness?

CLAIRE
(equally sardonic) It looks like centuries...
While they share a little private joke that Dougal has no way of understanding...

 

10OMIS10 

11EXT. CAMPAIGN - DAY - MONTAGE11 

Jamie, Dougal, Claire, Rupert, Murtagh (with FERGUS behind him) on horseback, accompanied by TWENTY-EIGHT METAYERS, most on foot, a few - including Ross, and two other tenants on horseback.

Brief montage of the group as they drive slowly north.

 

12EXT. CAMPING - A FEW DAYS LATER - DAY12 

Claire pulls a hook out of Ross' thumb. Rupert watches the operation with interest, Fergus hanging over his shoulder, watching too. Murtagh and the others are nearby. Ross flinched while Claire worked.
RUPERT
Oh you big baby, Angus was biting him with his teeth.

He mimes biting the hook with his front teeth.

FERGUS
Angus had no front teeth.

RUPERT
He would then use his gums.

CLAIRE
(ignoring them) I wish I could get you vaccinated against tetanus...

ROSS
Tetanus. I've never heard of it, but I'd have a drink of anything just now.

RUPERT
Sounds Spanish. Must be gin.

She finally releases the hook.

CLAIRE
All you have to do is settle for whisky.

She pours WHISKEY on his thumb, making him gasp. Rupert, looking offended, takes the FLASQUE from him and takes a sip.
Ross suddenly sees something out of chance. He stiffens and points.

ROSS
Mon Laird!

A group of horsemen suddenly appears on a distant ridge--
REDCOATS. One of the men waves an arm; Obviously, he has spotted their group and the horses are starting to move in their direction.

JAMIE
They spotted us! To go!

There is a sudden rush for equipment and horses. Claire starts putting her MEDICAL SUPPLIES in their box, when a bullet hits the box! She lets go of her as Jamie grabs her by the arm, pulling her towards the horses. AS MORE SHOTS ARE FIRED, she pushes the FOLDS, SOME NEEDLES AND SUTURES, and the WHISKY bottle into her pocket. Dougal barks orders at men in Gaelic, hastily bridling his own horse.

JAMIE (continued)
Leave him, Sassenach, there's no time!

DOUGAL
Rupert, come with me! The rest - Scatter into the woods!

Jamie propels Claire onto his horse, then swings on his own. Murtagh pulls Fergus behind him.

JAMIE
We will find ourselves at a crossroads! Come on, a chàirdean!

The Highlanders SCATTER, a few men leaving on foot, a few, including Ross, on horseback.

 

13EXT. HILLY WOODS - JOUR - DIVERS13 

- Jamie, Claire, Dougal, Rupert, Murtagh and Fergus madly try to escape the red coats. - A pair of REDCOATS stops their horses long enough to aim and SHOOT their muskets (or pistols).

- Rupert is HIT, almost falls from his saddle. Dougal jumps behind him on his horse, stabilizing Rupert so he doesn't fall. Rupert is soft, dripping with blood; He looks dead. - Dougal catches up with Jamie and company, making his way through the forest. - Jamie spots a way he hopes to lose their pursuers.

JAMIE
(flashback, in Gaelic)

Over here!

The Scots charge towards a plot of woodland. While Jamie and his band thunder in the other direction...

 

R14EXT. CHURCH - DAY - LATERR14 

Jamie, and the others are in a ditch, just outside the walls of a small country church. The roof of the church is thatched. Everyone got off their horses, Claire taking care of Rupert as Fergus and Dougal looked on. Jamie and Murtagh are crouching near the wall, considering the church.

MURTAGH
Are you sure it's wise to stop?

JAMIE
If we don't, Claire assures me that Rupert will die.

No comment from Murtagh, but he clearly wonders if sacrificing one man is not better than risking them all.

JAMIE (continued)
We haven't seen a red coat for almost two hours. Wait for my signal.

And he crawls along the wall, climbing as he gets closer to the door.

 

B14CHURCH INTERNATIONAL - DAYB14 

From the perspective of SOMEONE IN THE CHURCH, we see Jamie's form crawling along the wall.

 

14EXT./INT. CHURCH - DAY - MOMENTS LATER14 

Jamie quietly approaches the door, pushes it and a bayonet is thrown in his face! Jamie slips under the bayonet, throwing his shoulder into the man holding her, hitting him against the wall, taking the breath away from his potential attacker. He looks up to see it's Ross!

JAMIE
(in Gaelic)

My god!

Another tenant (one of the other two who were on horseback), is visible behind him.

ROSS
(panting)
Osh, sorry, Laird! Isn't that you!

JAMIE
It doesn't matter.

Jamie walks to the door and whistles - the clear signal.

JAMIE (continued) (to Ross)
Where are your horses?

ROSS
Hidden in the woods beyond. Wallace stands guard. We waited at the crossroads.

JAMIE
Everything is fine. Make sure that our horses are also hidden.
He steps back to allow Claire, Murtagh, Dougal and others to enter the church. Ross nods and waves to the other, who joins him. They begin to walk away, passing Claire and Dougal as they help Rupert, who stumbles, half-conscious, but standing.

ROSS
(ref: Rupert) What happened to him?

RUPERT
(groggy) I decided to take a closer look at a musket ball...

Ross relaxes, relieved that Rupert still has his sense of humor.

CLAIRE
Get rid of the altar and put it on it - I will use it as an operating table.

The altar is quickly cleaned and they carefully carry Rupert on it. Claire fumbles in her pocket and walks out with a handful of SUTURE needles (with wire attached), a lancet and toothclips. She picks up the tongs and uses whiskey to sterilize the instruments and wound. Fergus looks intently, not at all put off by blood.

CLAIRE (continued)
I have to remove the ball; It's not stable, and I don't want to risk it moving through her brain. I'll have to work on feeling; I need a small knife.

Fergus pulls a SGIAN DHU from his sock and hands it to him. Claire raises her eyebrows in disapproval.

FERGUS
Milord gave it to me.

She decides to let him pass, taking the knife.

 

15EXT. CHURCH - DAY/NIGHT15 

Time passes.

 

16INTERNATIONAL CHURCH - NIGHT - LATER16 

SHOT ON Claire, finishing the last point to close Rupert's now empty orbit. Fergus holds a small candle so he can take care of his work. The extracted bullet rests on the altar near Rupert's head.

ZOMM BACK ON Jamie, Dougal, Murtagh and Ross all posted to different windows, keeping an eye out.

RUPERT
I guess an eye is better than nothing...

CLAIRE
We will get you a black eyepatch and you will look like a real pirate.

RUPERT
Do pirates have eye patches?

CLEAR
With wooden legs and parrots.

RUPERT
What...?

CLAIRE
It doesn't matter. Before your time... Sort of.

MURTAGH
Jamie--

Jamie quickly walks to the window where Murtagh looks out, Dougal right behind him.

CLAIRE
What is it?

JAMIE
Flames.

DOUGAL
Red coats.

POV through the window - a small fire, and the glow of torches. Even with a single good eye, Rupert can see the danger - the roof is made of thatch.

RUPERT
Oh, Christ...

Suddenly, a stentorian voice comes from outside.

MALE VOICE (O.C.)
You in the church! We have your man and your horses! I command you to surrender in Her Majesty's name!

 

17EXT. CHURCH - NIGHT - IDEM17 

Outside, CAPTAIN CLERMONT (30's) and LIEUTENANT BARNES (20's) stand in front of A LINE OF 10 REDCOAT SOLDIERS holding FLAMING TORCHES. In the BG, a SOLDIER holds Wallace at gunpoint, along with the Highlanders' horses.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
Put down your arms and go out, or we'll shoot at the roof.

The soldiers move a little in anticipation, looking at the stubble.

 

18INTERNATIONAL CHURCH - NIGHT - IDEM18 

Dougal, Murtagh and Jamie cautiously peek out the windows.

DOUGAL
There are not many. We could make it a fight...

MURTAGH
They can pull the stubble in seconds. Anyone who is not stopped running through the door will be burned alive when the roof collapses.

JAMIE
He's right. We would never get there.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT (O.C.)
You have two minutes to decide, gentlemen!

JAMIE
I'm the one with a price on my head. Maybe I can negotiate for the rest of you to be released in exchange for my abandonment.

CLAIRE
Jamie--!

DOUGAL
Osh, stop being such a hero. If they take you this time, your only choice is between the executioner and the leader. Better to stand up and fight.

JAMIE(
re: the whole group) Everyone here is under my protection. If I can save you all by surrender, then I will. I will ask for safe conduct for the batch of you. They will want to take the horses, but I will try to...

CLAIRE
Wait. Perhaps there is another way.

JAMIE
Claire. There is none. And we have time to...

CLAIRE
(shouts loudly)

HELP! Help me! Save me!

 

19EXT. CHURCH - NIGHT - IDEM19 

Captain Clermont and the soldiers, frozen by the shock of hearing an English woman screaming for help.

CLAIRE (O.C.)
For God's sake, please help me! I am a British subject!

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
Damn it! They have an Englishwoman in there!

 

20INTERNATIONAL CHURCH - NIGHT - IDEM20 

Jamie has Claire by the arm, hissing at her.

JAMIE
Are you crazy, woman?

CLAIRE
I am your hostage - they will not shoot with me here. Trade me. You can use me to negotiate with them.

JAMIE
Non.

 

21EXT. CHURCH - NIGHT - IDEM21 

Captain Clermont, shouting towards the church.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
You in the church: If you have an English woman in there, send her – now!

DOUGAL (O.C.)
Abandon our hostage? Unlikely! We will...

 

22INTERNATIONAL CHURCH - NIGHT - IDEM22 

Jamie pushes Dougal, who staggers back, Jamie follows him. Murtagh grabs Jamie to prevent him from doing it again.

JAMIE
Let go of me!

MURTAGH
Shut up and listen -- Claire is right. The soldiers won't hurt her, they'll escort her to safety, and then let her go.

Jamie sees the meaning of this, but...

JAMIE(
to Claire)

I will not abandon you.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT (O.C.)
Take the woman out now, or we set fire to the stubble and burn you!

Claire takes his hand and turns around to look around inside the church, forcing him to look with her. He sees Ross and his other tenants, Fergus, Murtagh... its responsibilities.

JAMIE
(whismurs) I won't.

CLAIRE
Yes, You are a pig's head... Scottish. Am I not Lady Broch Tuarach? They are also my responsibility.

 

23EXT. CHURCH - NIGHT - MINUTES LATER23 

Dougal talks with Captain Clermont.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
You will free the Englishwoman and surrender your horses and weapons.

DOUGAL
And you leave. With the lady.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
Agreed. (pause) Your hostage... What is it called?

DOUGAL
Mistress Beauchamp is her name. A widow we met on our way. We took it under our protection.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
Your "protection"? I know the reputation of the Highlanders, sir. If it has been prejudiced, I have to tell you that all agreements are void.

 

24INTERNATIONAL CHURCH - NIGHT - LATER24 

Claire settles down to be handed over, pulls in her handkerchief, etc. Jamie paces, looks at her, then shakes his head.

JAMIE
You're a bad liar, Sassenach. Come out with that look on their face and they'll know something is wrong.

CLAIRE
How am I supposed to look?

JAMIE
I don't know. Less... guilty.

Claire rolls her eyes at this extremely useless suggestion.

FERGUS
Maybe you should faint, Milady. They won't be able to ask you questions right away.

Jamie and Claire exchange a look - not a bad idea.

DOUGAL
(to Claire)

They will probably take you to the garrison of Hazelmere. It's the closest British outpost to the region and they won't want a woman to weigh them any longer than necessary.
JAMIE
We'll go there and pick you up.
CLEAR
OKAY.

As the other men come out, carrying their weapons, Claire looks Jamie in the eye, she can see the deep worry and doubts that still lurk there. The only ones left in the church are her, Dougal and Jamie.

CLAIRE (continued) (to Jamie)
We'll meet again. Trust that.

She kisses him - then "faints" in Jamie's arms. He takes it.

CLAIRE (continued) (eyes closed)
Do you always have this effect on women?

JAMIE
Only the stubborn.

She opens her eyes and hits him. He walks to the door, but Dougal moves in front of him, arms outstretched to pick up Claire.

DOUGAL
If they recognize Jamie lerouge, they will not honor the deal they have made.

Jamie hesitates.

CLAIRE
Everything is fine.

Jamie reluctantly hands Claire over to Dougal.

 

25EXT./INT. CHURCH - NIGHT - MOMENTS LATER25 

Dougal leaves the church with a visibly fainting Claire in his arms. The Highlanders' WEAPONS were thrown in piles on the ground. Rupert relies on Ross. Murtagh
has his hand on Fergus' shoulder [Jamie remains hidden in the church]. They are a pathetic group.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
(contemptuous) The Jacobite army...

Several other soldiers sneered with contempt.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
That will suffice, Lieutenant. (in Dougal, re: Claire) Is she okay?

DOUGAL
She fainted. Terror.

Clermont motioned for Barnes to take him away.

DOUGAL (continued) (gives him a hard look)
I charge you personally with the protection of the lady, sir.

The lieutenant is surprised, but nods stiffly, then takes it from Dougal. ANGLE ON JAMIE, standing in the shadows just inside the church door. That's all he can do to watch the officer walk away with Claire's soft body. Captain Clermont remains, staring at the Highlanders.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
I urge you all to return home and resume your lives as peaceful and loyal subjects of the Crown.

DOUGAL
Yes. Be sure of it, as soon as the true king wears this crown.

Murtagh spits punctuation. Harsh looks all around.

ABOUT CLAIRE

It was gently placed against a tree. Lieutenant Barnes kneels beside her and holds an open bottle of brandy under his nose. Claire "wakes up" and her eyes float.

CLAIRE
Oh... oh... Where am I?

LIEUTENANT BARNES
You are safe, ma'am. You are under our protection now.

CLAIRE
I'm relieved to hear it.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
Have you been harmed in any way?

CLAIRE
No... No, I'm fine...

Barnes remembers Clermont.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
The lady says she...

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
(without looking back) Yes, thank you, Lieutenant.

He nodded one last to the Scots, then turned to his men.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT (continued)
Go up.

As they walk away on the road, Jamie comes out of the church and joins the others, watching them leave.

JAMIE(
in Dougal) I'm going to get a horse along the way. You and Murtagh can gather the rest of the men—assuming they weren't caught by a patrol of red coats—and head north.

I only need two men to play shepherd -

MURTAGH
He's right. I'm coming with you.

JAMIE
You will both help me as best you can by sending my men to safety. I will meet you in Keswick, once Claire returns safe and sound.

Murtagh looks at Jamie, shaking a thumb towards the men.

MURTAGH
You can order them. You can't. We will go and find her together.

DOUGAL
You will need help to get her out of the garrison. If it's me, Murtagh will do well enough. (shaking Jamie's hand/arm) Quickly. Bring it back quickly.

As he turns to leave, Rupert raises his hand and grabs his sleeve.

RUPERT
When you find it... Give it a wink for me, yes?

Jamie smiled, shaking Rupert's hand as a farewell.

JAMIE
If I could, I would.

 

26OMIS26 

27EXT. OPEN COUNTRYSIDE - NIGHT - MISCELLANEOUS27 

Redcoat's patrol crosses the countryside with Claire.

CLAIRE (V.O.)
It didn't take long to lose my sense of direction as we drove all night. I knew I had to leave him some sort of sign to follow, but unfortunately I was running out of breadcrumbs.

Captain Clermont climbs up next to Claire and leans down to talk to her.

CAPTAIN CLERMONT
We will stop for the night in Crich, Mrs. Beauchamp. The horses went as far as they could.

 

R28EXT. SMALL ENGLISH VILLAGE - NIGHTR28 

PLAN of a dilapidated hostel, low light in the window. The hostel is a miserable place, its door covered in layers of tattered, rain-soaked reviews [including research posters for Jamie the Red and Prince Charles]. There are TWO BEGGARS outside, pressed under the eaves for shelter, sitting with coats or blankets pulled over their heads to warm up as they share a bottle of something.

As Claire passes, one of the beggars looks up. We see it's HUGH MUNRO (Claire doesn't see it). He is astonished to see her, and in such bad company, but hurriedly looks down, gnashing his teeth when the soldier escorting Claire kicks him.

 

28INT. RAMSHACKLE INN - NUIT28 

Claire is sitting on a chair by the fire; She is soaked and her coat is smoking. The OWNER brings her a cup of hot punch and she sips it.

Captain Clermont sits at a table while the rest of the soldiers arrange to eat and drink and a place on the floor to lie down for the night. Lieutenant
Barnes enters with a bag of mail.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
The dispatches have just arrived for you, sir.

Barnes hands the bag to Clermont, who proceeds to wearily sort the pile of LETTERS AND PAPERWORK at one of the tables.

Claire remains in the fire and notices two of the soldiers, looking at her with lust. She snuggles deeper into her wet coat, burying her nose in her arms.

LIEUTENANT BARNES (continued) (PRE-LAP)

Madame...? Mme Beauchamp...? 
 
29INT. RAMSHACKLE INN - MATIN29 

Claire wakes up. She slept in her chair in her damp clothes and looks exhausted. Lieutenant Barnes squats in front of her and talks to her.

LIEUTENANT BARNES It's
time to go, Madam.

Claire notices that half of the soldiers have left, including the captain.

CLAIRE
Where is the captain?

LIEUTENANT BARNES
He was ordered to go to Keswick and he left during the night - but don't worry, the captain said I had to escort you to Bellmont before we joined him.

He goes out in...

 

R30INT. RAMSHACKLE INN - COULOIR - CONTINUR30 

"Claire follows Lieutenant Barnes.

CLAIRE
Bellmont? I thought I was going to the garrison at Hazelmere.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
(shrugs) The fortunes of war. Bellmont is closer and along the road to Keswick. I wouldn't worry, it's a big house, owned by a rich Englishman. He will give you refuge, I am sure.

Claire stops, taking this...

CLAIRE (V.O.)
The "fortunes of war" that took me to Bellmont meant that Jamie would be looking for me in the wrong place. I had to find a way to get him a word...

"Then follows him."

 

30EXT. RAMSHACKLE INN - MATIN30 

Barely dawn. As they leave the inn, the two beggars stand up and reach out to the passing red coats – and receive a series of curses and brutal kicks for their punishment. A beggar avoids the blows and rushes to Claire - she is surprised, but not as surprised as when she sees the man's face and recognizes him as Hugh Munro. Suddenly, the lieutenant quickly intervenes and knocks Hugh to the ground.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
Get out of here!

Claire recovers and rushes at The Lieutenant.

CLAIRE
Lieutenant Barnes, really! I am shocked that an officer of the king should behave in such an unchristian manner.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
(taken aback) Madam, I thought he wanted to hurt you...

Claire goes to Hugh and leans over him.

CLAIRE
Are you okay, sir? I apologize for the lieutenant's bestial behavior.

The Lieutenant is deeply embarrassed in front of his man, who sneers alone while saddling the horses.
CLAIRE (continued)

Here, let me help you get up... (whispering to Hugh) Jamie is looking for me in Hazelmere. (to Lieutenant Barnes as she helps Munro up) I still don't understand why we go to Bellmont instead of Hazelmere.
LIEUTENANT BARNES
The orders of the captain, Madam, as I said.

CLEAR
Very good. Bellmont will then be.

Hugh salutes her with a complicit look - message received. As another soldier helps him onto his horse, Hugh watches them go.

 

31OMIS31 

32EXT. HILL ABOVE BELLMONT - DAY32 

An imposing house, Bellmont looms through the rising mist.

CLAIRE (V.O.)
Now that I had sent Hugh to find Jamie, I was actually relieved of the change of plans. It would be far less dangerous for Jamie to save me from a private estate than the British Army garrison at Hazelmere.

They start to go down the hill.

 

R33EXT. BELMONT - JOURR33 

Claire's relief is short-lived. There is a COMPANY OF BRITISH SOLDIERS camped right outside the door.

CLAIRE (V.O.)
Unless, of course, there were British soldiers guarding this area... This led me to wonder who this place belonged to and, more than that, to worry
again for Jamie's safety: he was approaching a garrison cautiously. Would he use the same care when approaching a private house...?

Claire and her entourage pass in front of the SOLDIERS and her escorts nod in recognition. As they continue to the front steps...

 

33BELLMONT INT. - FOYER - JOUR33 

Claire sits nervously on the edge of a chair, while Lieutenant Barnes looks out the window, her apparent impatience.

CLAIRE
Who did you say you live here?

Footsteps approach before he answers, and an elderly servant opens the door, admitting the Duke of Sandringham himself. It's hard to say who is more shocked, Claire or Tle Duc, but he quickly adopts a dignified height. Despite this, there's an undeniable air of despair about the duke that we – and Claire – have never seen before. The lieutenant stands at attention.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
Do I have the honour to address the Duke of Sandringham?

SANDRINGHAM
It is, lieutenant. But the honor is mine – I cherish so much any opportunity to help one of the king's officers, especially in these difficult times. How can I help?

LIEUTENANT BARNES
This is for you, Your Grace. (delivers a SEALED NOTE) From my commander. He asks for your courtesy by giving temporary shelter to Mrs. Beauchamp, an English lady whom we rescued last night.

SANDRINGHAM
Oh! (turning to Claire) My dear Mrs Beauchamp! I would be delighted to offer you the hospitality of my humble home.

The lieutenant, eager to be on the way, bows and takes his leave.

LIEUTENANT BARNES
Thank you, Your Grace. My commander will be very obliged. Goodbye, ma'am.

He goes out and the duke closes the door behind him. He turns around and looks at Claire.

SANDRINGHAM
I need a drink and something to eat, and I'm sure you do too, given your appearance. Saved, he said? Saved from what? Rabid bears?

CLAIRE
(regrowing dishevelled hair) Highlanders. It's pretty much the same thing. A drink, you say?

 

34OMIS34 

R35EXT. GYPSY CAMP - NIGHTR35 

In the moonlight, WE SEE A GYPSY CARAVAN, with TWO HORSES
tied nearby. TWO GYPSIES sitting by a fire. Jamie and Murtagh, muddy to the eyebrows and looking like they had a rough night, are hidden in the grass a few feet away, calculating.

JAMIE(
re: horses) I'll take the white. You will take the black.

MURTAGH
So now we are traitors, murderers and horse thieves. Tell me, it never occurred to you that perhaps taking Claire as your wife was not the wisest thing you have ever done?

JAMIE
Non.

 

35INT. BELLMONT - DINING ROOM - NIGHT - LATER35 

EMPTY PLATES in front of them, and a carafe of brandy now almost empty. Claire, with an almost empty glass in her hand, ends the account of her adventures:

CLAIRE
And then they suddenly changed their minds and brought me here.

The elderly servant we saw earlier cleans the dishes and goes out. The Duke seems more relaxed than we saw earlier - because of the drink and, as we will learn, the possibility of salvation brought by the appearance of Clare.

CLEAR (continued)
Do you have only one servant, Your Grace?

SANDRINGHAM
Well, I still have my valet. But, yes, I'm afraid things are a little... tight for now. Even my cook is only there three times a week. But seeing you has brightened my outlook considerably.

CLAIRE
(finish her drink) Why did you pretend not to recognize me? Not that I'm not grateful; I was afraid you would drop my real name - but why?

SANDRINGHAM
Oh, the last thing I would do, my dear, is unveil it! (then) But how could I send such a charming woman to the tower? It straightened my entire wig the last time I was there. (looking at his hair) -- although I assume you don't suffer from that kind of inconvenience, do you?

CLAIRE
And when were you invited to the Tower of London? And for what, could I ask?

SANDRINGHAM
The slightest misunderstanding, my dear, I can assure you.

CLAIRE
Would this misunderstanding have been on your... Loyalty?

SANDRINGHAM
(tight) Enough. That's why the army practically made a circle around my domain.

This is not good news for Claire. She tries to hide her discomfort.

CLAIRE
Really? More soldiers than those in front?

SANDRINGHAM
Oh, my yes. They tried to be discreet, but really... With these coats?

The Duke removes the lace curtain from the French door and invites Claire out onto the balcony.

 
R36EXT. BELMONT - BALCONY - CONTINUR36 

SEVERAL SMALL CAMPFIRES dot the landscape. The soldiers are too far away for them to hear what is being said on the balcony, but Sandringham speaks softly anyway.

SANDRINGHAM
They just claim to rest and restock before moving on, but the fact is... I am being watched. Every entrance to the house is monitored. I am always suspected of being Jacobite.

She looks at the campfires, distracted and anxious about what Jamie might be walking in.

SANDRINGHAM (continued)
I suppose your dashing husband must have intended to save you, even as we speak?

CLAIRE
Presumably.

SANDRINGHAM
Excellent. As I wish to be rescued too, I will come with you. This could not have happened if I had told the soldiers who you were.

The comment catches Claire's attention. So that's what his increasingly relaxed attitude is all about!

CLAIRE
What do you have?

SANDRINGHAM
I think you always knew I was a Jacobite at heart.

CLAIRE
I'm reasonably sure you don't have a heart. And why do you think Jamie would save you?

SANDRINGHAM
Because I doubt the dear boy really knows where you are right now. How could he? The only way to let him know where you are is through my good offices.

CLAIRE
Really? Are you sure? Maybe it's walking through your front door right now.

The Duke can't help but glance towards the front door.

SANDRINGHAM
I certainly hope not, because if he does, he would find himself in a trap.

He expressed Claire's exact fear. She meets his gaze.

CLAIRE
What do you propose?

The Duke beckons him back to the house.

 

B36BELLMONT INT. - DINING ROOM - CONTINUEB36 

Claire and the Duke return inside.

SANDRINGHAM
I have a way of getting messages out of the house. In return, however, I must have your word that Jamie will take me out of my current situation and drop me off in
a safe haven. I'm sure Jamie would keep his wife's promise.

Claire thought for a moment, then...

CLAIRE
I will need paper and a pen, please.

 

36BELLMONT INT. - SALON - NUIT36 

CLOSE-UP of Claire's hand, while writing. She finishes the short message in Gaelic, the sign "Sassenach" and the sand, then turns to the Duke.

SANDRINGHAM
Gaelic? I didn't know you understood this barbaric language.

CLAIRE
We both know that messages are frequently intercepted. But if you don't trust me, I can certainly write it in English and hope your messenger doesn't get caught.

She moves as if to tear up the message. He holds her hand.

SANDRINGHAM
You hurt me, ma'am.

She folds the letter.

CLAIRE
Your messenger won't go anywhere near Jamie. He will deliver this note to a beggar named Munro, who is somewhere on the road between Crich and the garrison of Hazelmere. If you can get the message across, he can find Jamie.

MARIE (O.C.)
Claire !

Surprised, Claire and the Duke look up to see MARY HAWKINS!

CLAIRE
Marie!
The Duke hits his forehead.

SANDRINGHAM
I knew I was forgetting something... (to Claire) What a happy reunion. And my lovely goddaughter has news of herself;
She has to get married!

Marie rushes into Claire's arms with emotion.

CLAIRE
Are you his goddaughter?

SANDRINGHAM
Well, she's certainly not a blood relative. I am sure you have a lot to say. I have correspondence at shipping. If you'll excuse me...

Sandringham walks out, leaving Claire to hold Mary.

 

37-38OMIS37-38 

39INT. BELLMONT - KITCHEN - NIGHT - A LITTLE LATER39 

Mary lures Claire into the deserted room. A FIRE burns gently at one end.

CLAIRE
Marie. What are we doing here?

MARIE
It's the only place I can talk without feeling like I'm being listened to or watched. You have to help me, Claire! I can't marry Mr. Granger, I just can't!
CLAIRE
And who is Mr. Granger?

MARIE
This is the man my godfather promised me. A wealthy merchant who wishes to attach himself to the family of a duke - even if it means marrying "soiled goods".

CLAIRE
And he's a loyalist, I bet.

MARIE
(who cares) Yes, I believe so.

CLAIRE
Trying to play on the British side by marrying her goddaughter to one of the King's supporters...

MARIE
I don't care why! I can't!

Mary walks around the room, picking up objects and putting them down. Claire tries to calm her down, to make her sit down.

CLAIRE
Don't panic. I will talk to your sponsor. He has just made choices that should save you from having to marry a loyalist.

MARIE
would you? Oh, thank you, Claire! Thank you very much!

She kisses Claire again.

 

39AEXT. ANOTHER SECTION OF COUNTY ROAD - NIGHT39A 

The messenger of Sandringham, a light, disgruntled man, drives along the deserted road, clutching his coat against the weather. His mood lights up when he sees a FARMER carrying tools on his shoulder, walking painfully towards him. He pushes the horse forward.
MESSENGER
(to the farmer) Good evening to you, sir.

The farmer is cautious, but not hostile.

FARMER
Good evening.

MESSENGER
I am looking for a beggar named Munro. I understand that he may be on that path.

The farmer barely looks up at him, continues to move in the opposite direction along the road.

FARMER
They are unlikely to ask for the names of beggars.

MESSENGER
(after him) But did you see beggars on this road?

FARMER
I saw a shady-looking guy pass by in a slouching hat and tattered coat about half a mile back.

And without a word of thanks, the Messenger kicks the horse, thundering on the road, leaving the farmer to shake his head at such rude behavior.

 

LATEREXT. COUNTRY ROAD - A LITTLE TIMELATER 

The messenger sees a man with a cane in the distance. Hugh Munro.

MESSENGER
(questioning) Hey! You! Are you Munro?

Munro continues to walk, as if he hadn't heard, rounding off a bend. The messenger gallops forward, bypasses the turn and... Nothing. He pulls the horse up.

MESSENGER (CONTINUED) (continued)
Hello? I'm looking for...

He begins to get off the horse to investigate more closely in the woods when he is wounded on the side with a cane. The impact caused him to fall to the ground and he landed flat on his back. Munro has his knee in the terrified messenger's chest, a hand tightly around his throat. He uses his other hand to make gestures with his grunts in order to communicate.

HUGH MUNRO
You're looking at me! What for?

MESSENGER
(strangled)
Are you Munro?

Hugh nods, but doesn't let the man go.

MESSENGER (CONTINUED) (continued)
I was sent by the Duke of Sandringham to give you a letter.

This caught Munro's attention. He cautiously allows the man to rummage through his pocket and produce the letter, but Munro makes no gesture to take the letter at the moment, still looking at the messenger with suspicion.

MESSENGER (CONTINUED) (continued)
It was written by a certain Lady Claire Beauchamp for James Fraser.

Munro snatches it from his hands and finally lets it go. The messenger struggles to his feet, rubbing his throat, recovering, brushing.

MESSENGER (CONTINUED)
Usually, I get a tip for a deliverance.

He looks up. Hugh is gone. The horse groaned.

MESSENGER (CONTINUED) You think it's funny, don't you?

He takes the reins and prepares to ride the horse.

MESSENGER (CONTINUED) (continued)
Let's see who laughs when I remove your oats in the morning...

As he swings on the saddle...

 

CUT TO: 

40EXT. LANDSCAPE - NIGHT40 

41POST. A COUNTRY ROAD - NIGHT41 

The Moon rises above the dense forest. Jamie and Murtagh are galloping along the road, when they see a tattered figure in the distance, standing in the middle of the road, waving frantically. It's Hugh Munro. They stop and get off their horses.

JAMIE
Hugh! What the hell are you doing here?

Hugh begins to sign a reply while simultaneously digging up a letter inside his clothes.

MURTAGH
What is it now?

JAMIE
He says it's a letter - from Claire! He got it from a messenger...

Jamie opens it quickly, and he and Murtagh have trouble reading the words in the moonlight.

MURTAGH
Is it supposed to be... Gaelic?

JAMIE
Or at least, he's trying to be... What is that word?

MURTAGH
[Mutilated Gaelic word]? It's not a word.

MURTAGH
Sighdran? It's not a word.

JAMIE
I think she means "soldiers."

MURTAGH
Sighdran cuarst tigh... Do you think it means "soldiers around the Duke's house?"
The order of the words is all reversed.

JAMIE
You'll give him lessons later. (reading) "Duke S"? She's with Sandringham?

Hugh nodded vigorously.

MURTAGH
Lord God. The man is the original bad penny.

JAMIE(
to Hugh) Do you know where Bellmont House is?

Hugh nods and they head over to the horses [Hugh will ride with Jamie]. Murtagh always shakes his head when reading.

MURTAGH
She even misspelled "help me."

 

42BELLMONT INT. - SALON - NUIT42 

Claire anxiously waits for the duke, looking out the windows to see if she can see the soldiers. The Duke and his valet, DANTON, enter. The duke has his coat on his arm, he is clearly out (cheeks red because of the cold).

SANDRINGHAM
Mrs. Beauchamp. Tired of Mary so soon? Not that I blame you...

CLAIRE
In fact, I was hoping to tell you about Mary and your plans for her wedding.

The Duke waved a disdainful hand. He is in a good mood.

SANDRINGHAM
No discussion is necessary. The die is cast, the deal is done. You will be glad to know that I just spoke to the commander. I convinced him to withdraw the soldiers.

CLEAR
BUT... I thought they were there to keep an eye on you.

SANDRINGHAM
(Danton's cape handover) Well, they may not go far, or for very long - but they will. I mean, I'm still a duke.

She begins to ask another question, then stops as Danton folds the coat over her arm. His eyes fixate on the distinctive birthmark on his hand.

 

43EXT. RUELLE DE PARIS - NIGHT - FLASHBACK [EP. 204]43 

The attack in the streets of Paris... The thug who rapes Mary... another holding Claire... and the same birthmark on his hand.

 

44BELLMONT INT. - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT - RESUME44 

Back with Claire, the Duke and Danton.

SANDRINGHAM
Are you okay, ma'am? You seem... disturbed in some way...

Claire is indeed starting to feel uncomfortable.

CLAIRE
How... Has this man been at your service for a long time, Your Grace?

SANDRINGHAM
I hired him in Paris. I hope you don't think about trying to steal it for your husband. Danton is very loyal to me.

CLAIRE
When did you hire him in Paris?

SANDRINGHAM
(to Danton) She recognized you.

DANTON
Your Grace, I promise you that I have taken every precaution.

She frees herself from Danton's grip.

CLAIRE
Did you hire them? What for? Your own goddaughter?

The Duke takes a long moment, then nods. He feels he has the upper hand now. What difference does it make?

SANDRINGHAM
Yes, it was unfortunate. There was no intention that you would be killed, Ms. Fraser. Although this is the Count's initial desire, it is certain.

CLAIRE
The Count? The Count Saint-Germain?
SANDRINGHAM
Yes - oh and I understand that you killed him yourself! How I would very much like to hear the details of this meeting. (Back to topic) I happen to owe the Count a lot of money, you see. And since I didn't have an immediate means of payment... Naturally, I was horrified at the thought of... To have such a
charming woman. Such a mess. I succeeded, however, in convincing Monsieur le Comte that the mere fact of having you raped would be enough to avenge him for the loss of his property. You should really thank me for that. I mean -- you could easily be dead right now.

DANTON
(calm) You could still be, Madam. Easily.

CLAIRE
You'll regret sending your guards when Jamie arrives here.

The Duke smiles, a cat that has eaten the canary.

SANDRINGHAM
I didn't send them very far. When I told the captain that I was expecting "Red Jamie," he agreed to be a little less visible. To help lure your husband into my trap.

Claire's knees weaken as the full depth of Sandringham's duplicity hits her.

CLEAR
My god... Monster.

SANDRINGHAM
(pleased with himself) Proving my loyalty to the Crown by handing over "Red Jamie" and his treacherous English wife offers a much more permanent way to correct
their... Misperception of my motivations, than to go on the run. You could be hanged side by side – It's so romantic. (steps back and beckons to Danton) Take Mrs. Fraser back to her room and lock her up.

 

45EXT. BELLMONT - NUIT45 

Jamie, Murtagh and Hugh stand on a small elevation of land, looking at Bellmont in the distance. The glowing embers of a deserted campfire are visible, but no
trace of soldiers. They exchange a glance, then slip into the darkness, heading home.

 

46BELLMONT INT. - CLAIRE'S ROOM - NIGHT46 

Claire on her knees, trying to hook the lock with a button hook, but having no luck. He slams into her hand, and she throws the pieces on the floor in disgust.

CLAIRE
Damn it!

(hammers on the door) Let me out of here, you fucking bastard!

She stands back, panting, scans the room for any other possible escape route, walks to the windows and looks outside.

 

CLAIRE'S POV - A FIGURE CROSSES THE ALLEY, SHELTERED
BY THE TREES - Hugh Munro, easily identifiable by his clothes.

BACK with Claire.

CLAIRE (suite)
Hugh...?

Does this mean Jamie is nearby? She hears the sound of a KEY IN A LOCK and rushes to the door.

CLAIRE (continued)
Hello?

MARIE (O.C.)
Claire ?

Claire swirls to the sound of her voice. Mary stands beside the bed, having passed through a door hidden by the tapestry!
Mary (continued)
What's going on? Why are you locked up?

CLAIRE
There is no time to tell you everything now. I have to go out and talk to Jamie.

MARIE
(grabbing Claire's arm) Take me with you!

Claire hesitates, then sees a possible virtue in taking it.

CLEAR
OKAY. But we cannot go together. (voice loss) If Jamie is nearby, he should not approach the house. There are still soldiers hiding somewhere in the park. I'm going to go out through the kitchen. You go out the front - there is a beggar in the park near the house.

MARIE
A beggar...?

CLEAR
Yes. He's a friend and his name is Hugh Munro. If you find him first, tell him to warn Jamie – tell him it's a trap and he shouldn't approach the house.

MARIE
(shocked) Me? Going alone to meet a dirty beggar in the night? Oh, Claire, I can't, I just couldn't!

CLAIRE
(very impatient) Oh, for God's sake! So stay here and rest easy!

Claire comes out, closing the door on the vaporizing Mary.

 

R47BELLMONT - SMALL HALLWAY - CONTINUER47 

Claire moves down the hallway outside the tapestry door.

 

47BELLMONT INTERNATIONAL - STAIRS - NIGHT47 

Claire emerges through another door disguised as a tapestry and climbs onto the landing at the top of the stairs. WE FOLLOW as she hurries.

 

R48INT. BELLMONT - CUISINE - CONTINUER48 

Claire pushes the kitchen door. Only to find the duke there, sitting like a spider next to the hearth, enjoying a snack by candlelight. He doesn't wear his wig.

SANDRINGHAM
Good evening, my dear. (Re: his bare head) Forgive informality. I wasn't expecting a guest. There's nothing worse than going to bed on an empty stomach – join me.

 

48EXT. BELLMONT - NUIT48 

A British soldier stands guard in the shadows at the edge of the woods. Jamie comes silently behind him, wraps his arm around the soldier's neck and breaks him, without
the soldier ever making a sound. He lays the man down and rushes across the tree line towards the house...

 

R49OMISR49 

49INT. BELLMONT - CUISINE - NUIT49 

Resume with Claire and the Duke. The Duke continues to eat, but Claire has not touched the plate of food in front of her.

SANDRINGHAM
Did you really hit the Earl in front of the King himself? Or was it by order of the king?

CLAIRE
It was an accident.

SANDRINGHAM
I very much doubt it. The Earl was a most unpleasant guy - no sense of humor whatsoever.

PLAN of the buffet, loaded with various DISHES, utensils and SERVING utensils. There is a SHARP CARVING KNIFE next to an entire salmon on a tray. Claire walks to the buffet, grabs a dish and starts putting food on it at random.

CLAIRE
Maybe I'll get a bite. The night is likely to be long.

SANDRINGHAM
Time flies, with such a charming companion. Now there is a rumor that you have cast a spell on the Count who has stopped his heart.

The door opens creakingly; it is Mary, dressed in her dressing gown and shawl. We (and Claire) SEE the TOES OF HER BOOTS peeking under the hem of her dress. She stops and gasps when she sees the duke, who is eager to be interrupted.
SANDRINGHAM (continued)
What is the devil doing here, girl?

MARY
(trying not to look at Claire) I wanted something to eat.

The Duke sniffs, gets up and approaches the buffet. He takes a dish with a SLICE OF PIE, adds an apple and as he turns around to give it to Mary, sees the knife. With an eyebrow raised towards Claire, he picks it up. He then turns around and hands the dish to Mary.

SANDRINGHAM
there. Now go back to bed -- Lady Broch Tuarach and I are having a most interesting conversation.

 

50OMIS50 

51INT./EXT. BELLMONT - FIREPLACE/FRONT DOOR - NIGHT51 

Mary, looking dead with fear, opens the door of the porch. To his horror, there is a BRITISH SOLDIER standing in the shadows. He takes a step towards her and begins to speak, when suddenly his eyes roll in his head and he falls to the ground, revealing Hugh Munro, who hit him in the head with a large stone. Their eyes meet. She freezes for a
moment, then...

MARIE
Claire is downstairs in the kitchen.

Before she can say more, the inner door opens behind Mary who whirls to see Danton coming towards her and, with a hasty glance at the open outer door, she rushes to Danton, as if to pass him, turning him away from the outer door [creating a distraction]. He grabs her and she struggles. In the background, Hugh can be seen dragging the soldier. Danton grabs Mary.

DANTON
Where were you going, little mouse?

She fights Danton like a wet cat.

MARIE
Let go of me, brute! I'll tell my godfather how you caught me!

When she sees the FEET OF THE SOLDIER slipping into the shadows - knowing that the "coast is clear" - she faints dramatically. Disgusted, Danton takes her like a rag doll and brings her back inside. Hugh slides down the steps.

 

52INT. BELLMONT - CUISINE - NUIT52 

Claire and the Duke continue their conversation.

SANDRINGHAM
... my favorite was that you turn a broomstick into a poisonous snake and order it to attack the Count - a kind of Lady Moses and Pharaoh of the last days! Can you imagine?

The door to the house suddenly opens and Danton pushes Mary, now standing, into the kitchen in front of him.

DANTON
your grace! I found Mademoiselle on the porch.

Claire lights up. Mary is out!

MARIE
(sniffing) I just can't marry Mr. Granger! I was going to run away, but it was so dark, and -- and -- I was afraid of the soldiers! I couldn't...

SANDRINGHAM
Oh, for God's sake, go to bed! (beckons to him, then to Claire) What was I saying? Oh -- the story of the snake. Now, as absurd as it may seem at first...

Suddenly, Claire reacts to something that O.C. Sandringham turns to see... -- Jamie enters through the back door, sword drawn.

SANDRINGHAM (continued)
My God!

Danton, reacting, grabs Claire. Jamie looks at Danton coldly.
JAMIE
I wouldn't do it, if I were you. She bites.

Danton pulls out his KNIFE and holds it to Claire's throat. DANTON Drop your weapons and kick them here. Jamie follows the instructions, never taking his eyes off Danton. Danton begins to back towards the other door.

CLAIRE
This is the man who attacked us in Paris!

Mary reacts to this revelation, shocked. While Claire is talking, Murtagh OPENS THE DOOR. He slams it, surprising Danton and giving Claire the opportunity to stick an elbow in his ribs! Danton drops his knife - which lands near Mary's feet - and Claire rushes to Jamie, who grabs her while Murtagh grabs Danton, throwing him into the wall. The Duke is at the other end of the kitchen, not far from Jamie and Claire. Murtagh grabs Danton again, throwing him across the room.

SANDRINGHAM
Now -- now -- now! Let's all calm down and rationally discuss this like level-headed people.

JAMIE(
to Claire) Are you okay?

CLAIRE
I'm fine.

Murtagh grabs Danton by the front of the shirt, holding him against the wall.

MURTAGH
Now I will avenge these women as I have vowed to do. (to Mary) Give me the knife, Lass.

Marie turns a stunned look at the knife. She grabs it.

DANTON
It wasn't my fault! (points finger at the Duke) It was him! He made me do it!

Jamie and Murtagh look at the Duke in shock.

CLAIRE
That's right. The duke organized the attack so that Saint-Germain would forgive one of his debts.

Just then, Danton makes a noise that catches their attention. While everyone was watching Sandringham, Mary took the knife and plunged it into Danton's abdomen. Now she twists it, then lets go. The others watch, astonished,
Mary watches Danton slide on the floor with a relentless look of hatred on his face. Claire moves to one side of the table towards Mary, putting her arm around the girl. Murtagh moves the other way, while Jamie turns to the Duke, which tries to get away from him.

SANDRINGHAM
It could have been much worse. Oh, really. You can't imagine what Le Comte had in mind. I told Danton just to scare them. You know me, Jamie. I would never have approved of something as vulgar as rape.

Furious, Claire moves in with Jamie. Jamie never takes his eyes off The Duke.

CLAIRE
This is a lie! Rape was your idea.

JAMIE
Yes, I know you, Your Grace. You will say anything to whom, as long as it saves your skin.

SANDRINGHAM
Well, that stops today. Right away. I promise you.

JAMIE
As you say.

The Duke took a moment, shocked. Does Jamie really let him get away with it? He's not going to stick around to find out. He turns around, intending to run towards the door, but comes face to face with Murtagh, who has moved between Sandringham and the door. Murtagh picks up an axe stuck in a pile of wood near the fire.

MURTAGH
My name is Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser, son of Duncan, son of Donald. Now you die.

Murtagh pulls his arm back and makes a powerful sway with his axe, forcefully connecting with the Duke's neck, causing him to fall off his feet and out of frame.

Murtagh SWINGS THE AXE AGAIN, a powerful CHOP. Blood splatters on Murtagh's wall and face.

Claire turns her face into Jamie's shoulder, stunned. Murtagh leans down, hands on his knees, exhausted, covered in blood. Moving slowly, he leans over, takes a step forward and kneels in front of Jamie and Claire. He gently rests THE DUKE'S HEAD on the ground in front of them.

MURTAGH (continued)
I kept my word. I lay your vengeance at your feet.

DEAD SILENCE for a moment, everyone froze. Then there is a SOUND near the door near Mary. They all turn to see that Hugh Munro has entered, after being outside all this time, to go upstairs. One beat, then he remembers why he came in.

HUGH
(sounds and gestures) Soldiers arriving.

MARIE
(in a small, clear voice, no trace of stuttering) I think we'd better go.

 

CROSSFADE. 

END OF EPISODE 

 

 

 

 

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