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Season 3 épidode 7 

Crème de menthe 

  

Written by 

Karen Campbell 

 

 

JAMIE (PRE-LAP)
What in the Devil happened? (then) Sassenach? Sassenach -- ?

1INT. BROTHEL - JAMIE’S ROOM - DAY (D) (767)1

We pick up ON CLAIRE, adrenaline still coursing through her system in the wake of her life-threatening altercation with the MAN she found rifling through Jamie’s room [Episode 306].
Claire looks from the knife in her hand to JAMIE -- his brow creased with concern. Claire looks frightful. She’s shaken up, but manages to focus and answer Jamie’s question.

CLAIRE

... I was eating downstairs, when I came back... found him rummaging through your things... he grabbed me --

JAMIE
Christ, did he violate ye?

CLAIRE
No -- I managed to fend him off. It all happened so quickly... I didn’t mean to hurt him...

JAMIE

Doesna appear he left ye any choice in the matter.

Claire casts a remorseful look at the Man’s crumpled body, then notices his chest is still rising and falling –

 

CLAIRE

He’s still breathing.

And even though she’s still visibly shaken, her doctor instincts automatically take over -- and she swings into action, starts examining his cut leg --

CLAIRE (cont’d)
The laceration’s not deep -- it’s superficial -- it won’t require stitches --

Jamie watches her work in utter bewilderment --

JAMIE
Sassenach -- what are ye thinking?

But it’s what needs to be done, and Claire’s going to do it.

CLAIRE
I can’t just stand by and let him suffer -- I have to do something --

JAMIE
Why? He tried to kill you --

CLAIRE
Because I’m a doctor.

It’s clear Jamie thinks this is a mistake, but he knows Claire and knows she’s going to do this, whether he likes it or not. Claire notices BLOOD coming from the Man’s left ear,
then sees the ABRASION where his head hit the stone hearth.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
(rote) Looks like an epidural hematoma, I  need to reduce the swelling --

There’s a KNOCK on the door. Jamie moves to the door, asks --

JAMIE
Aye? Who is it?

FERGUS (O.C.)
Me, Milord. Madame Jeanne is with me. Some of the ladies said they
heard a struggle in your bed chamber.

Jamie opens the door and -- FERGUS and MADAME JEANNE enter.
Jamie quickly closes the door behind them as they take in the Man lying on the floor.

JAMIE
(explaining) She was defending herself from this ruffian.

Madame Jeanne nods, accepting Jamie’s explanation. This isn’t the first violent incident in her brothel.

MADAME JEANNE
Who is he?

CLAIRE
I don’t know. (then to Jamie) I need help getting him on the bed.

Claire starts to move the man, but Jamie stands stone still.

JAMIE
I ask ye again, Sassenach. Let God take him.

CLAIRE
Jamie, please -- I have to try and save him. You understand.

Of course he does. But that doesn’t mean he likes it. Jamie reluctantly complies, grabbing under the Man’s arms as Claire takes his legs, moving him to the bed. Claire pulls a bottle of alcohol and clean bandages from her basket, then startsdisinfecting the wound on his leg, as --

Jamie checks the Man’s pockets, searching for something to shed some light on who he is --

JAMIE
Ye said he was looking for something in the room...

CLAIRE
He was. Most of this... (re: the room’s disarray) ...is from his searching.

 

Jamie finds a RECEIPT in one of the Man’s jacket pockets. He reads the notes scribbled on the receipt and concludes --

JAMIE
John Barton. (then, darkening) He’s an exciseman.

FERGUS
This is very bad, Milord.

JAMIE
Aye. Seems Sir Percival is of the mind that I’m not keeping to our agreement.

Claire looks up briefly from bandaging Barton’s wounded leg.

CLAIRE
What agreement?

JAMIE
He turns a blind eye to the sale of my illegal liquor in Edinburgh in exchange for a large portion of my profit -- but my business pursuits
have expanded and I havena apprised him of the matter --

FERGUS
You think he has word we have been trading as far as Dundee and Arbroath?

JAMIE
Aye. Just yesterday he attempted to extort more money from me -- (re: Barton) He must ha’ employed this man to find out where I’ve stowed my
hidden casks.

 

Claire’s wrapping her head around all of this while continuing to bandage Barton’s leg.

CLAIRE
So he was a crooked agent of the Crown then.

JAMIE
Aye. It was so I can send more money home to Lallybroch. (then) When this man doesna return to Percival -- he’ll come ‘round lookin’ for him.

 

MADAME JEANNE
(pales) That is quite a problem, Monsieur Malcolm, considering the casks Sir Percival is searching for are hidden in my basement.

JAMIE
No for long. No harm will befall ye on my account. You have my word.

MADAME JEANNE
Allow me to send one of my more discreet girls to put everything in order right away.

JAMIE
Thank you.

As Madame Jeanne heads out --

CLAIRE
Please ask her to fetch a basin of hot water –- and I will need surgical implements, a trephine. Send her to the barber-surgeon, he will have one.

MADAME JEANNE
Whatever for?

JAMIE
A what?

CLAIRE
A drill, for his skull. I’ll need to burr a hole in it in order to relieve the pressure on his brain.

Madame Jeanne masks her horror, managing a polite --

MADAME JEANNE
I will see what I can do, Madame Malcolm.

CLAIRE
Thank you.

JAMIE
(to Fergus) Gather the lads -- I’ll be down to inform them of events shortly --

Fergus nods. He and Madame Jeanne head out.

CLAIRE
(re: the unconscious Barton) I’ll need laudanum and a few other things. Can you stay here with him until I return from the apothecary, in case he wakes?

 

JAMIE
I see yer need for healing hasna changed since we parted.

CLAIRE
It’s the right thing to do.

JAMIE
He doesna deserve yer mercy.

CLAIRE
Maybe not. Afterwards, you can turn him over to the authorities and have justice for what he’s done.

JAMIE
I ken ye’ve only jes returned, so mebbe ye dinna recall the workings of the law in this time – all they’ll see is that you were alone wi’ a man, who isna yer husband, in a brothel --

Claire sees where he’s going and insists --

CLAIRE
But I’m not a whore --

JAMIE
That doesna matter -- if the City Guard comes here, they’ll arrest you for having assaulted the man.

Jamie doesn’t like it, but Claire burns with conviction and there’s no time to argue.

JAMIE (cont’d)
Stubborn as always, Sassenach. But do what ye must -- I’ve casks to rid myself of. (then) I’ll send a man up to watch him while ye’re gone.

OFF Claire and Jamie, as they tackle the crisis.

 

2INT. BROTHEL - BASEMENT - MOMENTS LATER2

LANTERNS illuminate the stone-walled space where FIFTY (or so) CASKS OF LIQUOR are lined up in neat rows. Fergus, YOUNG IAN, MR. WILLOUGHBY, LESLEY and HAYES move casks with Jamie. He’s just filled them in on the Barton situation.

MR. WILLOUGHBY
I admire a woman who values the sanctity of human life.

JAMIE
Then ye can be the one to go up and keep an eye on him.

Mr. Willoughby nods, then heads up the stairs.

HAYES
‘Tis weak-minded if ye ask me – ye canna try to kill him, then heal him --

LESLEY
I only wish we could kill him -- I’ve been wantin’ to gut a filthy exciseman for years.

FERGUS
Milady has always been a unique woman.

JAMIE
Aye.

YOUNG IAN
What about the print shop, Uncle? If Sir Percival sent men here, he might look there as well?

JAMIE
Let him look. I dinna keep casks at the shop.

LESLEY
But ye do keep other items there.

JAMIE
Sir Percival doesna ken that and he never will. No one will find a trace of the pamphlets. They’re well hidden behind secret panels. Besides, movin’ the pamphlets now would be more dangerous than leavin’ ‘em be.

HAYES
Particularly now that ye’re under Sir Percival’s watchful gaze.

Jamie turns to Young Ian and Fergus.

JAMIE
Which is why I’m entrustin’ ye with the selling of these casks wi’out delay on my behalf -- even if it means takin’ a loss -- we canna risk them being discovered.

Young Ian is thrilled with the responsibility.

YOUNG IAN
I wilna disappoint ye, Uncle Jamie.

JAMIE
That’s why I tasked ye wi’ it.

 

3INT. HAUGH’S APOTHECARY - DAY (D1)3

Gleaming bottles of herbs and essential oils are nestled neatly against one another in polished WOODEN SHELVES. The air is thick with aromatics. We FIND Claire carrying her
basket as she hustles towards --

THE COUNTER where she finds the owner, MR. HAUGH, 30s, conducting business with ARCHIE CAMPBELL, 40s, a slick opportunist who uses flattery to get what he wants.

 

ARCHIE
D’ye have anything that might calm nerves? I’ve heard ye have the best tonics in all of Edinburgh. An auld wise woman said that mandrake root would do the trick --

MR. HAUGH
Nae. I dinna keep that root – it can cause frightful symptoms I’m afraid.

Claire can’t help but interrupt --

CLAIRE
I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude, but I have a situation that requires immediate attention --

MR. HAUGH
Please wait your turn, Madame --

CLAIRE
It’s urgent --

ARCHIE
So too is the health of my dear sister. (then to Mr. Haugh) And what of hemlock? ‘Tis said that it might aid symptoms such as hers.

A desperate Claire barters with Archie to get her way.

CLAIRE
I’m an experienced healer, I’ll see your sister myself if you allow me to go ahead of you --

ARCHIE
Free of charge in recognition of my generosity?

CLAIRE
Of course.

Archie steps back, allowing Claire to go ahead of him.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Thank you. (then to Mr. Haugh) I need a bottle of laudanum, ground yarrow and tormentil – please hurry, a man’s life is at stake –

 

As Mr. Haugh heads off to fill Claire’s order, Archie is
impressed with Claire’s confidence regarding what she needs --

ARCHIE
Ye seem to ken yer remedies. What ails the poor man?

CLAIRE
A severe head wound.

ARCHIE
Aye. My sister’s condition relates to her head as well -- though ‘tis more of a nervous complaint of sorts --

Mr. Haugh returns with Claire’s order and hands it to her.

CLAIRE
(to Mr. Haugh) Thank you.

Claire pays Mr. Haugh, then places the items in her basket --

CLAIRE (cont’d)
(then to Archie) I must be going, but... perhaps I can pay your sister a visit this afternoon –

 

ARCHIE
I’d be grateful. Ye can call on us at Henderson’s in Carruber’s Close. (then) Campbell is the name – Archibald and Margaret Campbell.

Claire nods. Then hurries out, continuing her mission...

 

4OMITTED4

A5INT. TAVERN BASEMENT - DAY (D1)A5

FERGUS and YOUNG IAN speak with MCDANIEL, 50s, the tavern owner. He’s barrel-chested and cherry-nosed -- the man likes his drink.

MCDANIEL
Fifty for the lot of ‘em.

YOUNG IAN
Och, McDaniel -- ye’re looking at a hundred pounds worth of fine brandy
here -- French brandy – imported from Cognac itself.

Fergus goes along with Young Ian’s pitch.

FERGUS
It is a truly superior brandy.

YOUNG IAN
(to McDaniel) Ye can charge more for that and make a braw profit.

McDaniel eyeballs the casks, doing the math.

MCDANIEL
Fifty.

YOUNG IAN
I like ye, McDaniel, so I’ll no be put off by yer paltry offering. (then) Seventy-five.

MCDANIEL
Seventy. I’ll no go higher. Without the Crown’s seal, I’m the one taking all the risk possessing your contraband.

Young Ian knows McDaniel has them over a proverbial barrel.

YOUNG IAN
Seventy-five pounds and ye’ll have three casks of crème de menthe as well.

Young Ian trades a loaded look with Fergus.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
What d’ye say?

MCDANIEL
I’m no a man to refuse liquors at no charge –- ye have a bargain.

YOUNG IAN
(smiles) Ye’re a good man. Thank you.

McDaniel counts out the payment, then hands it over to Young Ian.

FERGUS
Quelle performance ! (conspiratorially) You even managed to rid us of the crème de menthe.

 

Young Ian smiles at a shared secret between them. Then as they head out to retrieve the casks of brandy, Young Ian, curious about his Auntie Claire, asks --

YOUNG IAN
D’ye remember Auntie Claire all those years ago?

FERGUS
(nods) I was no more than a boy, but I remember her well.

YOUNG IAN
What was she like?

FERGUS
Spirited. And incredibly brave. Milady was unflinching in the battles prior to Culloden. She would heal men who had been cut in half by swords and blown to pieces by cannon fire without flinching. She saved many lives, though there were rumors...

YOUNG IAN
What kind of rumors?

FERGUS
That Milady took a few lives as well. She is not a woman you want to cross, mon ami.

Young Ian considers that.

YOUNG IAN
If Auntie Claire was forced to kill men. Likely they deserved it.

FERGUS
Even so, Milady has created a bit of a catastrophe, no?

YOUNG IAN
Are ye sure the crème de menthe cask is well sealed?

FERGUS
(nods) I saw to the matter myself.

OFF Fergus and Young Ian heading out the door.

 

5INT. BROTHEL - JAMIE’S ROOM - DAY (D1)5

Claire enters and finds Jamie and Mr. Willoughby restraining a now conscious Barton. They’ve tied his arms to the bedposts with strips of sheets. Mr. Willoughby holds
Barton’s legs still while Jamie keeps one hand clamped tightly over the stock he stuffed into Barton’s mouth.

JAMIE 
The fiend woke and started makin’ considerable noise --

CLAIRE 
He’s having a lucid interval, which happens with brain injury -- youmustn’t wrench his head like that --

JAMIE 
D’ye have a better way to keep him quiet -- ?

CLAIRE
Yes.

Claire swiftly pulls the bottle of laudanum from her basket.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Please remove the stock and hold his mouth open --

Jamie does, reluctantly. Claire tips some laudanum into Barton’s mouth as he tries to yell.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Now close it.

Jamie does. Within moments, Barton’s eyes flutter closed -- the opiate has sedated him. Claire examines his left eye --

CLAIRE (cont’d)
(concerned) Left eye is dilated -- the pressure is building from the bleeding inside his skull -- I need to operate -- now.

 

Jamie moves away from Barton as Claire preps for her surgery.
She nods at the TREPHINE now sitting on a nearby table --

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Yi Tien Cho, please pass me the drill -- and some brandy. I’ll need to disinfect it before I begin.

MR. WILLOUGHBY
Of course, Honorable Wife.

CLAIRE
And untie his arms.

As Mr. Willoughby obliges, there’s a KNOCK on the door --

MADAME JEANNE (O.C.)
Monsieur Malcolm?

JAMIE
Aye? What is it?

Jamie opens the door, only a crack and sees --

MADAME JEANNE
Sir Percival is here to see you.

Jamie clenches his teeth -- this is the last thing he needs to deal with right now. Claire glances over her shoulder and locks eyes with Jamie -- the stakes are high.

JAMIE
(for fuck’s sake) I’ll be down straightaway.

OMITTED 6 6

7INT. BROTHEL - PARLOR - DAY (D1)7

SIR PERCIVAL TURNER waits impatiently with a BLIND-EYED MAN, a shabby-looking man, who has a BLIND LEFT EYE and greasy pig- tail. The Man cranes his neck to peer into nearby BEDS where SEVERAL WHORES enthusiastically entertain CUSTOMERS behind drawn curtains. As Jamie and Madame Jeanne descend the stairs, Sir Percival and the Blind-Eyed Man get to their feet.

Jamie closes in on Sir Percival and the Blind-Eyed Man, but remains calm in spite of the fact that if they discover Barton upstairs, Jamie and everyone else here will be in danger--

JAMIE
Sir Percival, here for a mid-day romp?

SIR PERCIVAL
I can assure you, Mr. Malcolm, my interests today relate only to business.

BLIND-EYED MAN
(quietly to Sir Percival)

Perhaps a quick taste after our business is concluded?

SIR PERCIVAL
(disgusted) Don’t make me regret hiring you. (then to Jamie) I’m here to search these premises at once.

JAMIE
What cause have ye to do that?

SIR PERCIVAL
You are withholding from me, Mr. Malcolm --

OFF this --

INTERCUT WITH:

A8INT. BROTHEL - JAMIE’S ROOM - SAME TIMEA8

CLAIRE pours ALCOHOL on a clean bandage, then disinfects a spot on the LEFT SIDE of Barton’s head as Mr. Willoughby looks on, rapt, but on edge -- will they be caught?

BACK ON JAMIE --

He moves closer to Sir Percival, keeping up his pretense.

JAMIE
(keeping his voice low) Ye’re wasting yer time -- ye ken well enough I store my casks in Queensferry.

SIR PERCIVAL
(quietly to Jamie) And I’m certain that’s not the only place where you are concealing your contraband.

 

MADAME JEANNE
I assure you, Sir Percival, there is nothing hidden in my establishment --

JAMIE
But dinna take us at our word – ye are welcome to see for yourself.

SIR PERCIVAL
Of course I am -- I certainly don’t need your permission.

ON CLAIRE --

As she cranks the TREPHINE, BURRING a HOLE into Barton’s skull, while Mr. Willoughby firmly holds Barton’s head. He watches Claire work with fascination and concern --

MR. WILLOUGHBY
Won’t this kill him?

CLAIRE
No, but the pressure on his brain will if I don’t release it.

8INT. BROTHEL - BASEMENT - DAY (D1)8

Sir Percival carries a lantern as he enters the basement with the Blind-Eyed Man on his heels. Jamie and Madame Jeanne enter behind them. Sir Percival deflates a bit as he investigates the now empty space, desperate to find evidence.

SIR PERCIVAL
(to his henchman) Don’t just stand there! Search with me.

The Blind-Eyed Man sidles up to Sir Percival, combing over the space.

Sir Percival stops to inspect a PUDDLE near Jamie’s feet, waving the Blind-Eyed Man over, unwilling to get his hands dirty.

SIR PERCIVAL (cont’d)
Get over here. (then re: the puddle) Is that brandy?

The Man dabs the puddle with his finger, then smells it.

BLIND-EYED MAN
No, Sir Percival. It’s water.

MADAME JEANNE
We have a leak. It is why I cannot store anything of value down here.

Sir Percival, having discovered nothing in the basement wheels on Jamie --

SIR PERCIVAL
I want to see the rest of the premises immediately – starting with your room, Mr. Malcolm.

Madame Jeanne’s stomach drops. Sir Percival stares Jamie down. It’s a face-off, but Jamie remains sphinx-like.

JAMIE
If ye must...

INTERCUT WITH:

ON CLAIRE --

As she gently eases the trephine from the hole she’s burred in Barton’s skull. Once the drill is removed, BLOOD oozes from Barton’s burr hole.

CLAIRE
There. The clot is released.

Claire gently mops up the blood, then requests --

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Hand me the tormentil --

As Mr. Willoughby complies --

AA9INT. BROTHEL - PARLOR - DAY (D1)AA9

Sir Percival follows Jamie through the parlor with Madame Jeanne and the Blind-Eyed Man following closely behind.

JAMIE
Ye’ll find nothin’ in my room save a wee bed and some stale bannocks --

Jamie heads up the stairs, continuing to bluff his ass off --

JAMIE (cont’d)
And considerable disarray, I’m afraid --

SIR PERCIVAL
I’m not at all surprised to hear that you keep a slovenly room.

JAMIE
No at my hands -- the disorder was made by the drunkard ye sent here
to make inquiries about me --

Sir Percival blanches. Jamie’s called him out. Sir Percival takes a beat to recover, then scowls --

SIR PERCIVAL
I’d rather not expose myself to further degradation by extending this already unpleasant stay.

He knows Jamie has outfoxed him regarding the casks, but has no proof. OFF Sir Percival, wheels turning...

A9INT. BROTHEL - JAMIE’S ROOM - DAY (D1)A9

Jamie enters and finds Claire and Mr. Willoughby with Barton, who now lies motionless and pale on the bed.

JAMIE
Christ! I was barely able to get rid of Sir Percival -- this must end now, Sassenach --

CLAIRE
He’s dead.

Jamie pauses, surprised. Claire seems defeated, her voice even.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
You got your wish.

MR. WILLOUGHBY
Honorable Wife fought hard – put best foot forward.

Jamie can’t help but be relieved.

JAMIE
Well, I’ll no grieve for the man who tried to kill my wife. (then to  Willoughby) Fetch Lesley and Hayes, I’ll need help movin’ the body.

 

Mr. Willoughby nods, then leaves as Claire takes her surgical trappings and heads to a BASIN where she rinses them. Jamie senses she’s struggling and tries to comfort her.

JAMIE (cont’d)
‘Tis better this way, Sassenach -- You tried, but God took him.

CLAIRE
God had nothing to do with it. I failed him. If I’d been in a proper hospital, in Boston...

JAMIE
But ye’re not in Boston.

Claire looks at Jamie, willing him to understand.

CLAIRE
I’ve dedicated the past fourteen years to respecting human life and healing people without judgement. I work very hard and it’s not often
that I lose a patient. I didn’t just lose this one, I caused his death.

Jamie rubs Claire’s shoulders, reassuring her --

JAMIE
There’ll be other chances to put yer knowledge and skills to use.
Others to save. Like ye did the last time you came.

Claire absorbs that, she knows it’s true.

CLAIRE
You’re probably right about that.

And it can’t help but make her rethink the wisdom of coming back and her regret at violently upending Jamie’s life without warning.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
And I’ve caused you all this trouble. I’ve dropped in from the clear blue sky and put your livelihood -- and your life – in jeopardy.

Jamie takes her hands.

JAMIE
Ye havena, Sassenach. Ye came thousands of miles, and two hundred years to find me. And I’m grateful that ye’re here, no matter the cost. I would give up everything I have, if it means we’ll be together again. Don’t ye see? Ever since you left, I’ve lived in the shadows. And when ye walked into the print shop, it was as though the sun returned and cast out the darkness.

 

Claire has to smile at that, slightly chagrined. It’s a callback to what he told her on their wedding day. And she hasn’t forgotten it. She falls into his arms and lets him hold her for a beat. Then finally pulls away, slightly chagrined.

CLAIRE
I have another patient to see. I shouldn’t be gone long --

JAMIE
(surprised) A patient? And who would this be?

CLAIRE
Margaret Campbell. I met her brother at Haugh’s and offered to examine her.

JAMIE
But ye dinna ken who these people are -- ye canna go alone. I’ll send for Fergus to escort ye --

CLAIRE
As you said, I travelled thousands of miles and two hundred years, I can certainly make it across town.

JAMIE
But Sir Percival --

CLAIRE
Doesn’t know who I am. Or what I did to the man who worked for him.

Jamie knows he won’t change her mind. But as she goes he grabs her arm gently.

JAMIE
Ye will return -- afterward?

She puts her hand over his and gives him a look that says of course, I will. And Claire goes, determined to put the first crisis they’ve faced together since they parted two decades ago behind them.

EXT. HIGH STREET - DAY (D1)B9

Claire walks along, navigating the 18th century foot traffic. It’s clear that the day’s events are weighing on her.

9INT. THE WORLD’S END TAVERN - DAY (D1)9

The tavern is starting to fill with PATRONS looking to unwind after the work day. FIND Fergus and Young Ian at a table, swilling pints of ale.

FERGUS
(toasting Young Ian) To a master salesman! Thanks to you, we made a handsome profit!

 

YOUNG IAN
Ye think so?

FERGUS
Oui, you have a natural gift when it comes to business, just like Milord.

Young Ian grins, riding high -- there’s nothing better than being compared to his hero, Uncle Jamie. He clinks mugs with Fergus, takes a healthy gulp of his ale, then --

YOUNG IAN
I’ve been meaning to ask ye – does French brandy really increase the
firmness of a cock-stand?

FERGUS
(laughs) In my experience, the result is quite the opposite, but all that
matters is that I convinced the buyer that it does, non?

YOUNG IAN
Aye. Ye had me convinced.

FERGUS
We make a good pair, perhaps we should venture to open a business
of our own one day. There is money to be made in this city and...

Fergus realizes that Young Ian isn’t listening, he’s too busy eyeing BRIGHID, 20, a very pretty and lusty working girl.

FERGUS (cont’d)
Ah -- Mademoiselle Brighid. I see you watching her every time we are
here. She is enchanting, no?

YOUNG IAN
Bonny.

Fergus waves Brighid over. She nods, then sets a couple of drinks down for a CUSTOMER.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
What are ye doin’?

FERGUS
Tonight is the night you do more than just look.

As Brighid starts to cross the tavern towards them --

YOUNG IAN
(dropping his voice) I’ve never... bedded a lass before.

FERGUS
Then this is your opportunity,brother.

YOUNG IAN
How old were ye when -- ?

FERGUS
Fifteen. A ménage à trois’.

YOUNG IAN
A what?

FERGUS
Two women, and one moi.

This blows Young Ian’s mind.

YOUNG IAN
Christ!

FERGUS
(nods in agreement) It was a rather religious experience.

Young Ian glances at Brighid, excited, but a bit nervous.

YOUNG IAN
I dinna ken what to do.

FERGUS
The art of seduction can be mastered thus.

Young Ian leans in as if Fergus is about to reveal the meaning of life. And some would argue that he is.

FERGUS (cont’d)
Firstly, you must look into her eyes and tell her how beautiful she
is. Secondly, offer her a drink, whatever her heart desires.

Young Ian nods, committing these steps to memory.

YOUNG IAN
Simple enough.

FERGUS
And the pièce de résistance is perhaps the most important --

YOUNG IAN
What is it?

FERGUS
Repeat one and two.

Fergus slaps Young Ian on the back, then leaves. As Brighid sidles up to Young Ian --

BRIGHID
What can I fetch ye?

YOUNG IAN
Nothin’.

BRIGHID
Nothin’? Are ye sure? Yer friend jes beckoned me over.

Young Ian locks eyes with Brighid and follows Fergus’s instructions to the letter.

YOUNG IAN
Ye’re the bonniest lass I’ve ever seen. Can I offer ye a drink -- whatever yer heart desires.

Brighid smiles. She’s a sucker for a compliment. And a man with money to spend.

BRIGHID
Whisky.

And as Brighid and Young Ian get better acquainted, FIND --

The Blind-Eyed Man, the one with Sir Percival at the brothel, watching Young Ian like a hawk from across the tavern.

OMITTED 10 10

11INT. HENDERSON’S HOTEL - CAMPBELL’S ROOM - DAY (D1)11

Claire enters with Archie and finds MARGARET CAMPBELL, 30, seated at a table with her head resting on her hands. Margaret’s sweet face is framed with long pale hair, giving
her an ethereal quality.

ARCHIE
Margaret, I’ve brought someone to see you.

Margaret is slow to respond. Archie gently shakes her.

ARCHIE (cont’d)
Margaret, will ye no look alive? We have a guest.

MARGARET
Can they come back later, Archie? I’m verra tired --

ARCHIE
No a client Margaret, a healer.

As Archie adjusts Margaret to a more upright position, Claire notes Margaret’s sedated state --

CLAIRE
What did you give her?

ARCHIE
A few drops of laudanum to keep her calm.

As Claire touches Margaret, checking her wrist for a pulse, Margaret snaps from her lethargy and looks directly into Claire’s eyes with a burning intensity.

MARGARET
Gleep gleep. Gleep gleep. D’yehear ‘em? D’ye hear the tree toads
lullaby? And the moon -- the moon be chokin’ wi’ blood. Ye must be
careful, Abandawe will devour ye. Abandawe. Abandawe. Abandawe...

Margaret’s lids become heavy again as Claire withdraws her hand from Margaret’s wrist. While she’s a bit taken aback by Margaret’s sudden episode, Claire remains professional.

CLAIRE
Her pulse is strong, but you really mustn’t use laudanum -- it’s far too potent for daily use.

ARCHIE
D’ye ken the meanin’ of what she said?

CLAIRE
Not a word of it.

ARCHIE
I’d be happy to interpret her vision for a modest fee.

CLAIRE
You’re fortune tellers?

ARCHIE
Aye. Margaret is a seer, but isna able to articulate what it is she sees. Wi’out me to decipher the message, her visions are no more than ravin’ gibberish.

Claire looks at Margaret, who looks completely spent. Her heart goes out to the poor woman.

CLAIRE
Does she have trouble sleeping?

ARCHIE
Aye. Some nights she canna rest at all. Nightmares plague her fiercely.

CLAIRE
Are there ever times where she sits still for long periods of time?

ARCHIE
Oh aye, starin’ at the walls. When she’s in such a state, I canna get her to talk, let alone move.

Claire nods, arriving at a diagnosis.

CLAIRE
Mr. Campbell, from what I can discern your sister isn’t a seer -- she might just have a mental disorder.

ARCHIE
Oh, aye. As I told ye earlier, Margaret’s been soft in the head since she was a bairn.

CLAIRE
Do you have any writing implements?

ARCHIE
Aye. On the desk.

Claire crosses to a desk, takes a porte pencil and jots down a list of remedies --

CLAIRE
These are instructions for how to make green cardamom tea – next time Margaret is anxious, give her the tea with a few drops of tansy oil. You can also use valerian in a tea, which will help her sleep.

ARCHIE
Are ye sure simple teas will be enough to keep her subdued?

CLAIRE
Subdued? Why would you want to do that?

ARCHIE
Margaret has a great deal of curiosity, when she has her wits about her. She marches up to strangers, touches ‘em, then tells ‘em things they didna ask to hear. It scares ‘em somethin’ awful sometimes, puttin’ me in a difficult position. Course ‘tis different when they come seekin’ her talents, then I can charge ‘em, ye see.

Claire picks up on the exploitative family dynamic.

CLAIRE
And Margaret enjoys the work?

ARCHIE
Oh, aye -- it’s the only way she can engage wi’ people that doesna give them a fright.

Claire, unconvinced that Archie has Margaret’s best interests at heart, offers --

CLAIRE
I’d like to come back to see Margaret tomorrow.

ARCHIE
That’s kind of ye, but we are departing for the West Indies.

CLAIRE
The West Indies? Won’t that be an arduous trip for Margaret?

ARCHIE
That’s why I need tonics -- I dinna want her carryin’ on during our long journey. Sailors are a superstitious lot. I canna risk ‘em pitchin’ my sister overboard.

CLAIRE
Once you reach the West Indies, you must see that she eats a great deal
of fruit -- and no more laudanum.

ARCHIE
(nods in agreement) No more laudanum. Thank you for yer help.

CLAIRE
You’re welcome. Safe travels.

Claire takes one last glance at Margaret, wishing she could do more, but realizes that she’s done what she could.

EXT. PRINT SHOP - ESTABLISHING - NIGHT (N1)A12

It’s after hours. The place is empty.

12INT. PRINT SHOP - MAIN ROOM - NIGHT (N1)12

A drunken Young Ian and Brighid spill into the print shop through the alley door. Young Ian’s crush on Brighid has only intensified with drink. He serenades her, as he leads her towards the back room -- singing “Come Hap Me With Thy Petticoat.”

YOUNG IAN
(singing) “O Bell, thy looks have kill’d my Heart, I pass the day in pain...
when Night returns, I feel the Smart, and wish for thee in vain.”

Brighid giggles. She teases him, but secretly loves it.

BRIGHID
Ian -- ye’re a terrible singer.

YOUNG IAN
(singing louder)“I’m starving cold, while thou art warm. Have pity and incline --

BRIGHID
(still teasing) Och -- I dinna think it could get any worse.

YOUNG IAN
“And grant me for a hap that charming petticoat of thine!”

Brighid plants a KISS on Young Ian, lighting the lad afire. He leads her into --

13INT. PRINT SHOP - BACK ROOM - NIGHT (N1)13

The print shop FIREPLACE casts a golden glow onto Young Ian and Brighid as she slips off her shawl. They start to snog. It’s sweet and romantic, until Young Ian’s desire for Brighid gets the better of him. As he tries to bend her over the COT and lift up her skirts --

BRIGHID
What are ye doin’?

YOUNG IAN
Is this no how it’s done?

Brighid giggles, charmed by Young Ian’s ignorance.

BRIGHID
I thought ye worked out of a kittle- hoosie?

YOUNG IAN
Aye. I’ve seen some of the whores do it like this.

BRIGHID
But I’m no a whore tonight, am I?

YOUNG IAN
Nae. Wi’out a doubt ye’re the finest lass I e’er set eyes on.

Brighid smiles, then cups Young Ian’s hands to her ample bosom. Young Ian exhales, thrilled.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
Jes tell me how ye like it. I’ll do whatever ye want.

BRIGHID
Lie down and I’ll show ye.

Young Ian complies, reclining on the cot. Brighid slowly undoes his breeks, enjoying the spell she’s cast on him. Young Ian loses his mind with anticipation as Brighid hikes
up her skirts and straddles him...

14INT. BROTHEL - JAMIE’S ROOM - NIGHT (N1)14

Jamie finishes counting stacks of COINS, sliding them into a leather pouch when Claire enters, carrying her basket. She’s hit with a brief twinge of remorse as she notes that Barton’s body has been removed, as well as the blood soaked bedding.

CLAIRE
What did you do with his body?

JAMIE
The lads hid it in a cask of crème de menthe that was sold off with
the others. (off Claire’s look) There are worse places for one’s eternal rest.

He downplays the day’s events in an effort to cheer her up.

CLAIRE
Surely somebody’s going to look inside that cask sooner or later.

JAMIE
Not for a long while. Alcohol slows the decay and besides, it’s not likely to be broached, I’ve never seen a Scotsman take anything beyond whisky, ale or brandy.

Claire just shakes her head at the absurdity of it all. Jamie tries to comfort her.

JAMIE (cont’d)
Dinna fash, Sassenach. ‘Twas no more than a wee bit of chaos -- nothin’ we havena seen before.

But it’s more than that and they both know it. Yet in this moment, both decide to try to move forward.

CLAIRE
Perhaps we can find a place of our own.

JAMIE
And leave the brothel?

Claire gives Jamie a look -- the silence between them is filled with GASPS and MOANS from the WORKING GIRLS.

CLAIRE
You don’t expect us to make a home here?

JAMIE
No forever perhaps, but for now we’ve everythin’ we need – and there isna any rent to pay. Nearly every shilling I earn is sent to Lallybroch --

CLAIRE
I was thinking I could earn some money as well... as a healer. It felt good today, seeing a patient. Perhaps I could work from the back of your print shop, or even open an establishment of my own. We could build a happy life here -- in Edinburgh.

Before Jamie can respond, there’s a KNOCK on the door.

MADAME JEANNE (O.C.)
Monsieur Malcolm -- a gentleman named Ian Murray is here for you.

Jamie addresses Madame Jeanne through the door.

JAMIE
I’ll be down at once.

CLAIRE
(puzzled) Ian? What’s he doing here?

There’s no time for a long explanation, so Jamie just says:

JAMIE
He’s likely looking for Young Ian. Dinna mention that ye’ve seen him. I’ll explain later...

OFF Claire’s puzzled look, they quickly head down to see Ian.

15INT. BROTHEL - PARLOR - NIGHT (N1)15

Claire and Jamie walk down the staircase and FIND – IAN MURRAY pacing the far side of the room, near the entryway. Dark circles are under his eyes. He hasn’t slept well in
days. Claire is thrilled to see her brother-in-law.

CLAIRE
Ian --

IAN
(gob-smacked)

Claire?

Ian stares -- is his mind playing tricks on him?

CLAIRE
Yes... It’s so good to see you.

As Claire gives Ian a warm hug --

IAN
It is you, lass. But we thought --

He hesitates then looks to Jamie, not wanting to say they thought she was dead.

CLAIRE
I know what Jamie told you. He thought I’d been killed in the aftermath of Culloden.

IAN
Jenny and I... we grieved over ye for years.

JAMIE
She believed me to be dead as well. It was a terrible misunderstanding that kept us apart.

Ian’s trying to absorb the story. They move to a more quiet corner of the parlor for privacy.

IAN
Where on this earth have ye been all these years?

Jamie and Claire trade a look before launching into more of their cover story.

CLAIRE
America. I sailed there when I thought Jamie was dead. I would have returned to Scotland sooner, but only recently learned that Jamie was alive --

JAMIE
That’s when she came back to find me -- and I’m more than happy she
did. What brings ye here?

Ian, too consumed with his current agenda to poke holes in their story, accepts their explanation.

IAN
It’s wee Ian -- the lad’s run off again. Have ye seen him?

JAMIE
Nae. He’s no here.

Claire shoots Jamie a look, surprised. Jamie shoots her one back -- a warning not to speak up.

JAMIE (cont’d)
How long has the lad been gone?

Jamie feigns ignorance -- because of course, he knows Young Ian is in Edinburgh.

IAN
Weeks. Last time my son ran off, he came to see you -- are ye sure?

JAMIE
I havena seen him. No since I sent him home with Fergus, months ago.

Claire shifts uncomfortably, not liking being involved in this, nor watching Jamie lie to Ian without batting an eye.

IAN
Christ, Jamie! Where else could he be?! Jenny is woefully distressed.
What if the lad’s been taken by a press gang? If that were to happen, we’d never see him again.

JAMIE
(reassuringly) Dinna fash -- the press gangs wouldna be able to thole the lad. They’d throw him off before they left port. I’m sure he’ll appear.

IAN
Promise me ye’ll bring him home straight away should he turn up here.

JAMIE
I will.

Claire frowns, displeased at being witness to this lie.

JAMIE (cont’d)
Let’s no delay yer search any longer. I’ll see you out.

IAN
(nods to Claire)

Goodbye for now, Claire.

CLAIRE
I hope to see you and Jenny very soon.

Jamie walks Ian out of the parlor and into --

16INT. BROTHEL - ENTRYWAY - CONTINUOUS16

Jamie and Ian are out of earshot from Claire --

IAN
Claire must ha’ taken yer news well.

Jamie shakes his head.

JAMIE
I havena told her.

IAN
That’s no somethin’ ye want to hold onto for verra long.

Leaving us to wonder exactly what that something is.

JAMIE
She’s only jes arrived. I’m waiting for the proper time.

IAN
Ye might be waiting forever then.

JAMIE
(convincing himself as much as Ian)

All will be well -- ye’ll see.

Jamie slaps Ian on the shoulder as Ian heads out the door.

17INT. PRINT SHOP - BACK ROOM - NIGHT (N1)17

Young Ian and Brighid make love. She’s on top of him, doing most of the work, but enjoying it. Young Ian is completely lost in the moment. Brighid is as well, until --

The QUIET CLANK of something tipping over inside the shop. A shuffle of feet. Not loud, but Brighid freezes.

YOUNG IAN
Dinna stop.

BRIGHID
(whispers) D’ye no’ hear that?

YOUNG IAN
Nae.

So they go back to it. But then a loud -- CLUNK.

Brighid, now thoroughly spooked, hops off of Young Ian, who bolts up in the cot and pulls up his breeks.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
That I heard.

Young Ian moves to the back room window. Brighid falls in behind him. They peer into the main room and see --

A MAN. His back is turned to them. He’s searching a corner of the shop near the HIDDEN PANELS by the fireplace. But he hasn’t discovered the PANELS -- he’s looking for casks.

Young Ian, worried for Brighid’s safety, wraps her shawl around her shoulders. Whispers:

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
Ye’d better go now.

BRIGHID
But what about you?

YOUNG IAN
I’ll be fine. Run out the alley door and dinna turn back.

Brighid nods. Young Ian looks out at the man, who still has his back turned to them.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
Go. Now.

As Brighid sprints out the alley door, the Man turns -- it’s the Blind-Eyed Man who was with Sir Percival at the brothel. Young Ian, more angry than scared, confronts him, emboldened by ale and sex.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
What are ye doin’ trespassin’ in my Uncle’s shop?

The Blind-Eyed Man dismisses Young Ian as a threat.

BLIND-EYED MAN
You know fine well what I’m doing, boy. Where are the casks?

YOUNG IAN
There are no casks as ye can see wi’ yer own eyes.

The Blind-Eyed Man starts to peek under a table. Young Ian, hot-headed, rushes to him, pushing him with all his weight.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
There’s nothing here. Now get out!

The Blind-Eyed Man grabs Young Ian.

BLIND-EYED MAN
I know you’re party to your Uncle’s smuggling -- tell me where he’s hiding the liquor!

The Blind-Eyed Man pushes Young Ian hard up against the wall into one of the secret panels and -- the panel SWINGS open.

He roughly pushes Young Ian aside and investigates what’s behind the panel door.

BLIND-EYED MAN (cont’d)
What have we here?

YOUNG IAN
Get away from there!

Young Ian rushes the Blind-Eyed Man again, but he grabs Young Ian and heaves him away HARD -- sending the lad stumbling backwards, past the forge, landing in a heap on the floor. The Blind-Eyed Man opens the panel further, REVEALING boxes of SEDITIOUS PAMPHLETS. He picks up a handful, scanning them, realizing what they are...

BLIND-EYED MAN
Your uncle’s been a busy man. Betraying Sir Percival is one thing. But inciting sedition...

He greedily grabs more pamphlets. Young Ian, desperate to stop him, gets to his feet, preparing to charge him again.

YOUNG IAN
Leave! Now!

Fed up, the Blind-Eyed Man pulls a PISTOL from his belt and levels it at Young Ian.

BLIND-EYED MAN
Stand down, or I’ll put a ball between your eyes!

Young Ian glances around for a weapon. As he reaches for the LEAD LADLE atop a TABLE FORGE on the nearby table, the Blind- Eyed Man SHOOTS at Young Ian --

Ian ducks and the shot goes wide, SHATTERING a POT of ALCOHOL, spraying ACCELERANT across the table and floor.

BLIND-EYED MAN (cont’d)
(cursing the pistol)

Bloody hell!

The Blind-Eyed Man angrily moves towards Young Ian, intending to bludgeon him with his PISTOL, when -- Young Ian grabs the lead ladle, knocking over the table forge, sending HOT COALS into the accelerant -- Young Ian FLINGS the lead ladle at the Blind-Eyed Man, striking the LEFT side of his face!

The Blind-Eyed Man HOWLS in pain as HOT LEAD sears his flesh as -- FLAMES dance atop the accelerant, spreading quickly across the table and floor between Young Ian and the staircase, creeping towards a POT OF ALCOHOL on the floor.

As the Blind-Eyed Man staggers towards the alley door, still clutching a few seditious pamphlets in his fist, FLAMES IGNITE ANOTHER POT OF ALCOHOL on the floor and --

WHOOSH -- the pot EXPLODES -- reams of paper and other flammable materials within the print shop erupt into FLAMES! Young Ian backs away from the conflagration into the back room unable to escape as the Blind-Eyed Man, who is on the less intense side of the blaze, manages to flee through the alley door.

18INT. BROTHEL - JAMIE’S ROOM - NIGHT (N1)18

Jamie enters and finds Claire glaring at him --

JAMIE
The years apart couldna erase the meanin’ behind that look --

CLAIRE
Since when do you lie to your family?

She isn’t scolding him, just confused and concerned.

JAMIE
I couldna verra well tell him that the lad’s been helpin’ wi’ my smuggling, could I?

CLAIRE
At least you could have told him you had seen his son. He and Jenny
must be in agony --

JAMIE
But the lad is safe --

CLAIRE
Safe? He’s been risking his neck working for you without his parents’ blessing --

JAMIE
Och -- ye dinna ken what ye’re haverin’ about. I’ve tried to send him home. Twice. He keeps coming back to me. Better he run off to be wi’ his Uncle, than to some godforsaken place surrounded by strangers -- on the  streets of Aberdeen or Dundee.

CLAIRE
But you could tell them.

JAMIE
Trust me, Claire, Jenny and Ian dinna ken what’s best for the lad.
I’m the only one teaching him the ways of the world.

He’s coming from a good place, but Claire doesn’t see it.

CLAIRE
This has nothing to do with the ways of the world. Young Ian ran away from home. Of course Ian and Jenny want to know where their son is. And you lied to them.

JAMIE
Aye. And ye shouldna judge me for it. Have ye forgotten all the deceptions we’ve colluded in? We lied our way through Paris, did we not? Did we no jes lie to Ian about where ye’ve been for the past twenty years?

CLAIRE
A white lie to conceal something that Ian couldn’t possibly understand is entirely different --

JAMIE
(calling her out) Well, I didna ken that lies come in shades.

CLAIRE
You have no idea what it’s like to be a worried parent -- you’re not the boy’s father.

JAMIE
(stung)
Nae. I’m Brianna’s father. But I didna get to raise her, did I?

Claire momentarily holds her tongue. He’s got her there.

JAMIE (cont’d)
I didna have a say in how you and Frank brought her up, wearin’ that wretched thing ye call a “bikini” in front of that gomeril ye say is her “friend”. Even whores have enough decency to keep from paradin’ about in the like --

CLAIRE
Christ -- I’d forgotten how rigid this century can be -- a woman is either a Madonna or a whore. I suppose if Frank and I had raised her to be a criminal -- taught her how to smuggle booze and write treasonous materials -- then you’d approve?

JAMIE
At least her virtue wouldna be endangered!

CLAIRE
Says the man who lives in a brothel! I’ll have you know Frank was a wonderful father to Brianna!

Claire’s defense of Frank irritates Jamie. His insecurities about her life with Frank over the past twenty years surface.

JAMIE
Was he now? And was he a wonderful husband to you as well?

CLAIRE
What’s that supposed to mean?

JAMIE
Ye didna return to me until after he died --

CLAIRE
I didn’t return to you until I knew you were still alive --

JAMIE
Ye asked me if I fell in love with anyone -- did ye fall in love wi’ him? When ye went back?

CLAIRE
I cared for Frank very much and yes I loved him, but that was before you --

JAMIE
And yet ye were wi’ him for years -- ye said ye were happy wi’ him –

CLAIRE
You’re twisting my words -- I told you that I was happy raising Brianna with him --

JAMIE
Did ye share his bed?

CLAIRE
Yes. For a time. I tried to make the marriage work -- for Brianna’s sake, but it didn’t last. If you must know -- I slept alone for most of the marriage!

Claire is near tears, the stress of the day overwhelms her.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
I left my entire life to be with you...

Jamie doesn’t know what to say. And right when it seems as though things couldn’t get worse --

MADAME JEANNE (O.C.)
Fire!

Claire and Jamie hear FOOTSTEPS hustling down the hallway. Jamie opens the door and sees --

Madame Jeanne moving down the hallway, spreading the word --

MADAME JEANNE (cont’d)
There’s a fire in Carfax Close!

A FEW WHORES and their JOHNS, in various states of undress hurry out into the hallway, eager to go witness the action.

Jamie looks out the window in his room, noting the origin of the blaze. That’s not just any fire in Carfax Close --

JAMIE
The print shop.

19EXT. PRINT SHOP - NIGHT (N1)19

Jamie and Claire plunge through a crowd of ONLOOKERS gawking at the print shop. It’s entirely engulfed in flames. Jamie, suspecting the worst, takes action, dashing towards the print shop steps --

CLAIRE
What are you doing?!

JAMIE
Young Ian sleeps in the back room!

And with that, Jamie charges up the steps, opens the front door, but is quickly driven backwards by a belch of smoke.

Jamie pulls his HEAVY WOOL WRAP up around his head like a hood and charges into the print shop.

As Jamie disappears inside the print shop, the FIRE BRIGADE, made up of SIX strapping Scots, arrives, towing a BRASS FIRE ENGINE. The CAPTAIN of the Brigade orders the crowd to --

CAPTAIN
Make way! Make way!

Claire and other Onlookers part for the Fire Engine. As the Fire Brigade starts dousing the fire, we --

20INT. PRINT SHOP - CONTINUOUS20

PICK UP Jamie swiftly entering the flame engulfed catwalk and taking in the fire. He glances into the back room and sees -- YOUNG IAN curled up on the floor. Smoke inhalation has rendered the lad unconscious. Jamie, adrenalized, vaults over the catwalk balcony, landing on his feet.

He quickly packs a TRAY of TYPE SET MOLDS into a BAG, then scoops Young Ian up and heads towards the staircase, when -- Parts of the ceiling fall onto the flame engulfed staircase!

Jamie quickly assesses another escape route, glancing up at the back room window that leads to the front of the shop. He sets Young Ian down, then performs an impressive feat of strength as he PUSHES a PRINTING PRESS into position underneath the window, intending to use it as a ladder. Jamie picks up Young Ian and starts climbing up the press.

21EXT. PRINT SHOP - CONTINUOUS21

Claire anxiously watches as the print shop continues to be devoured by flames when Fergus and Mr. Willoughby join her.

FERGUS
Milady! We came as soon as we heard --

MR. WILLOUGHBY
Left pints behind at the Blue Boar.

Fergus glances around --

FERGUS
Where is Milord?

CLAIRE
He went inside to get Young Ian.

Fergus and Mr. Willoughby take in the fire, now sharing Claire’s anxiety.

Claire is desperate for Jamie and Young Ian to appear – the disagreements she’s had with Jamie are a distant memory now that he’s in mortal danger.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Where are they?

FERGUS
(pointing) There they are!

And sure enough, there’s Jamie, blackened by smoke and soot, exiting the burning print shop with Young Ian passed out over his shoulder. The lad is covered in grime from the fire.

CLAIRE
Thank Christ.

Claire tries to cut through the crowd towards Jamie with Fergus and Mr. Willoughby in her wake as --

CAPTAIN
(to the crowd) Get back! Get back! Move yerselves! The roof’s goin’!

Jamie hustles Young Ian to safety as the roof collapses, sending a whorl of incandescent sparks into the night sky.

22EXT. PRINT SHOP - MOMENTS LATER22

The Fire Brigade continues to extinguish the fire as Claire performs rescue breathing on Young Ian, while Jamie, Fergus and Mr. Willoughby watch. They surround Claire, shielding her from any onlookers.

FERGUS
(worried) Will he live?

CLAIRE
Yes. His heartbeat is strong.

MR. WILLOUGHBY
How does blowing wind into his mouth help?

CLAIRE
I’ll explain how it works later.

Claire blows more air into Young Ian’s mouth.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Come on, Ian -- breathe, dammit...

Young Ian finally gasps for air. A relieved Claire helps him sit up as he coughs violently, catching his breath.

CLAIRE (cont’d)
Thank God. Are you all right?

YOUNG IAN
I think so.

Claire examines a mild burn on his right forearm. She digs into a pocket of her dress and pulls out bandages. As she wraps Young Ian’s arm, she looks up at Jamie.

CLAIRE
Nothing too serious. I’ll need to apply a poultice... but clean bandages will do for now --

YOUNG IAN
(stifling his cough) Thank you, Auntie Claire, but it isna me ye need to worry about --

Young Ian looks around then lowers his voice for privacy.

YOUNG IAN (cont’d)
(urgently to Jamie) A man with a blind eye broke into the print shop, Uncle. He found yer pamphlets!

 

JAMIE
How?

YOUNG IAN
We started fighting -- he threw meagainst the panels and they opened!

JAMIE
All right, lad. Calm down.

YOUNG IAN
But the man works for Sir Percival!

Jamie nods, recalling that he saw a blind eyed man.

FERGUS
Milord, if he gives the material to Sir Percival, he will be able to arrest you for more than smuggling.

JAMIE
Aye. Sedition is a far worse. High treason is a capital crime. If Percival arrests me, he’ll be awarded a king’s ransom.

YOUNG IAN
I’m heart sorry, Uncle Jamie – I tried to stop him!

JAMIE
Dinna fash, lad. Is no yer fault.

FERGUS
(concerned) What will you do, Milord?

Jamie’s devastated, his life in Edinburgh is in ruin.

JAMIE
I’ll take Claire and Young Ian to Berwick tonight --

CLAIRE
Jamie, we need to take Young Ian home -- to his parents – where he’ll be safe.

While that’s the last place Jamie wants to go at the moment, he can’t argue Claire’s logic considering the circumstances.

JAMIE
Aye. We’ll take the lad to Lallybroch -- Sir Percival wilna be able to trace me there as Jamie Fraser -- he only kens me as Alexander Malcolm of Edinburgh. (then) I have business to settle with Fergus and Willoughby.

 

CLAIRE
Of course.

Claire continues to tend to Young Ian as Jamie pulls Fergus and Mr. Willoughby aside, out of earshot of Claire and Young Ian. Jamie pulls out his coin pouch and pays Mr. Willoughby.

JAMIE
Yer profits from the sale of the casks -- as well as what is owed to Lesley and Hayes -- will ye get it to them for me?

MR. WILLOUGHBY
I will.

JAMIE
Make sure ye stay out of sight. It’s likely there’s a target on yer backs, as well as on mine.

Mr. Willoughby nods, then heads off to execute Jamie’s marching orders as Jamie hands COINS to Fergus.

JAMIE (cont’d)
And here’s yer share. See if ye can intercept the man wi’ the blind eye before he gets to Percival -- lie low while ye do it.

FERGUS
Of course, Milord.

JAMIE
And tell Ned Gowan to bring news regardin’ the matter I inquired after to Lallybroch --

FERGUS
(lowers his voice) Perhaps there is a better place for you to take Milady?

JAMIE
Dinna fash, Fergus -- Balriggan is miles away from Broch Mordha.

FERGUS
Milady does not yet know about -- your other wife?

JAMIE
Nae. No yet.

So that’s the secret that Jamie’s been keeping from Claire! He glances at her, hit with a pang of conscience, but he pushes it away, he has more pressing issues to deal with.

JAMIE (cont’d)
But I will explain everything -- once Claire and Young Ian are safely at Lallybroch. Send word when ye can.

Fergus nods, then peels off. Jamie takes in his burning print shop as he heads towards Claire and Young Ian – his life in Edinburgh is literally going up in flames. Claire, sensing that Jamie is upset, joins him. He puts on a brave face, but inside he’s reeling --

JAMIE (cont’d)
I ken this isna what ye had in mind when ye returned to me, Sassenach --

Claire takes his hand.

CLAIRE
All that matters is that we’re together.

Jamie forces a smile, hoping to heaven that will still ring true once he tells Claire about his other wife.

JAMIE
One thing we can agree upon.

Jamie and Claire move to Young Ian and help him to his feet. OFF Claire, Young Ian and Jamie leaving Edinburgh behind...

FADE OUT.


END OF EPISODE