North and South
Episode 5
English version Dec 9, 2024
Contents
05.03 - The Dictor Visits Madeline
05.05 - Orry Looks After Madeline
05.07 - Politics At The Wedding Reception
05.08 - Ashton Plots Against Billy
05.11 - James' New Orleans Speech
05.12 - In Madame Conti's Etablissement
05.13 - Bent Gets Informations On Madeline
05.20 - Development Considerations
05.21 - Greene Gets Virgilia Out
05.22 - Greene Questions Virgilia
05.23 - Election Parade At Lehigh Station
05.24 - Election Preparations In Philadelphia
05.27 - Orry Quarrels With Brett
05.29 - Hotheads In The Streets
05.30 - Brett In Huntoon's House
05.32 - Election Party In Charleston
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Start 2.41, Length 2.03
Participants:
Location opening: Mont Royal, veranda
Location scene: Mont Royal, Brett's room
In 1858, Ashton talks with Brett about her upcoming wedding with James. To Brett's lack of understanding, Ashton paints the event not to an act of love but a way to achieve her very own goals.
Ashton....................... (humming to herself)
Brett............................ Well' I'm glad to see you in such a lively mood today. You must be feeling better.
Ashton....................... Oh, there's nothing wrong with me, thank you very much. I just had a touch of the marsh fever. But I'm feeling fine now, just fine. Well enough to go riding today with Forbes LaMotte.
Brett............................ Why, your wedding is only a few weeks away. I'd have thought, you'd be spending all your time with James. After all, he is the man you're marrying.
Ashton....................... Just because I'm honoring him with the privilege of marrying into our family doesn't mean I'm obliged to spend my last days of freedom with his boring company.
Brett............................ (shakes her head) You make marriage sound like a jail sentence. Won't be that way for Billy and me.
Ashton....................... Billy Hazard is no different than the rest of them. You silly fool, you believe in all those lies he writes in his letters about how he loves you and he wants to marry you? Why, he said these very words to me once upon a time.
Brett............................ You only hate Billy, 'cause he wants me now instead of you.
Ashton....................... Oh, Brett, that's not true. I'm trying to protect you. You're my sister, after all.
Brett............................ Well, then try to understand that I love Billy, and that we are gonna been married, soon.
Ashton....................... Of course you are.
Brett............................ And we'll have a big family and a dozen children. (tears rolling)
Ashton....................... Hm, that's twelve more than I'll be breeding. Well, you just make sure that he marries you - first. (leaves)
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05.03 - The Doctor Visits Madeline
Madeline's health is getting worse. The doctor called by Justin finds on food refusal and prescribes her a strengthening tonic.
Doctor........................ (to Madeline) If you can hear me, Mrs. LaMotte, I want you to know, I'm here to help you. (sounds her off) You're safe. You're husband's here, he's terribly worried. Now, I'll do all I can, but you must do everything I ask.
Madeline.................... (weakly) Yeah.
Doctor........................ You must force yourself to eat.
Justin.......................... I've tried everything I could to persuade her about it. But she refuses. Don't you, dear?
Madeline.................... I will try to eat something, if the doctor tells me to.
Doctor........................ Good. You must follow my regimen to the letter. Plenty of rest, hot tea, some solid food when you're feeling up to it.. But more importantly, you must drink some of my celery tonic every day without fail. (to Justin) You'll see to it that she gets her medicine?
Justin.......................... I'll spoon-feed it to her myself.
Doctor........................ And this room must be aired out.
Justin.......................... Certainly. In her delirium she wouldn't let anybody in here to clean it for her.
Doctor........................ (to Madeline) You'll recover, my dear. (walks out with Justin) I can't believe it, she's practically starved herself.
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Without Madeline to hear, the doctor warns Justin on the addivtive effects of the follow-up tranquilizing medicin he also prescribed on Justin's description about her behavior. This comes handy to Justin.
Doctor........................ After a week or so, your wife will be accustomed to the celery tonic. Then you may substitute the other formulation.
Justin.......................... The one containing the laudanum?
Doctor........................ Yes. On your description of her behavior before the mental collapse, I consider the treatment entirely necessary.
Justin.......................... I wish there was some other way, but I can't think of anything else to calm her nerves. I'm afraid to what she might do to herself, if I'm not here to watch out for her.
Doctor........................ Of course. You understand, there will be symptoms. Fatique, signs of early aging, all which can be accountable to natural causes, the stress and strain of normal living. Mrs. LaMotte need never know, she's taking laudanum.
Justin.......................... One more question, Doctor: How long can this treatment be continued?
Doctor........................ Indefinetly. But I'm afraid that after a while she won't be able to function without it.
Justin.......................... Hm. Thank you, Doctor. (walks him to the door) Good day, Doctor.
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05.05 - Orry Looks After Madeline
Orry rides over to Resolute and finds Madeline apatically sitting on a bench. But she hardly recognizes him. When Justin appears, Orry repeats the invitation to Askton's wedding.
Orry............................. (rides up, dismounts) Madeline. Madeline.
Madeline.................... (absensely) Orry, how nice to see you again.
Orry............................. What's wrong with you? Did you change your mind about leaving? I've waited at the chappel for you every day. I know it's dangerous to come here, but I had to see that you're alright. Meet me tomorrow. I have to know what's wrong.
Madeline.................... I'm sorry, it's too difficult.
Orry............................. Ma...
Justin.......................... (appears) Orry.
Orry............................. Justin. I've ah... come about the invitation to Ashton's wedding. It's next week, and we hadn't gotten your reply yet, so...
Justin.......................... My appologies. I've been hoping that Madeline will be well enough to attend.
Orry............................. Is there anything I can do?
Justin.......................... No, she's under a doctor's care. He says, it's nothing serious, just a weekness in the blood, one of those mysterious ailments, that women are heir to. (to Madeline) I think you should go back into the house now, my dear. You've been out here long enough.
Orry............................. Well, we hope, you'll both be at the wedding. It's Sunday after next, remember.
Justin.......................... We'll surely try. Madeline, say goodbye to Orry.
Madeline.................... Goodbye, Orry. (they walk off)
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Start 10.33, Length 0.30
Participants:
> Supporting roles: James Huntoon, Ashton Main --> Huntoon, Clarissa Main, Orry Main, Brett Main, Justin LaMotte, Madeline LaMotte
> Statists: guests
Location: Mont Royal: veranda
Ashton and James Huntoon hold their wedding at Mont Royal. Besides the family, the LaMotte's and other neighbours are present. A Photographer takes a group picture of all.
Photographer............ Ladies and Gentlemen, maintain your posture, please. (uncovers the lense) One-thousand-one - one-thousand-two - one-thousand-three - one-thousand-four - one-thousand-five. (covers the lense) Thank you. (applause)
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05.07 - Politics At The Wedding Reception
Start 11.03, Length 3.02
Participants:
> Supporting roles: James' campaigners
> Statists: Justin LaMotte, guests
Location: Mont Royal, driveway and surrounding gardens
At the wedding reception, Madeline acts more distant than ever and this way, Orry is unable to start a conversaion with her. Ashton enjoys the hype around her and gets predicted a bright political future at James' side.
Forbes........................ (to two young ladies) Would you lovely ladies excuse me for just a second? (both handkiss, walks over to James and Ashton)
Orry............................. (walks up to Madeline, carefully) Madeline. Madeline? I'm ah... I'm glad you came.
Madeline.................... (absendly) I beg your pardon.
Orry............................. Why have you shut me out? I wish you'd tell me what I've done.
Madeline.................... Have you seen my husband anywhere? I must find him.
Orry............................. Talk to me. Let me help you.
Madeline.................... There's no need.
Orry............................. Then just let me see you again, just once.
Madeline.................... No, that's impossible.
Orry............................. Madeline, I will not give up.
Madeline.................... Please, leave me alone. (walks off slowly)
Ashton....................... (to her listener) Of course, James expressed to me his interests in politics. But to be called upon to help guide the secessionist movement, well, I just had no idea I'd be marrying such a powerful and influential man. And as his wife, I hope I can only live up to such an honor.
James..........................
You'd make a mighty fine first lady of the
Ashton....................... Do you agree, Brett?
Brett............................ Of course, if that's what you want.
Ashton....................... James' happiness is what I want.
Campaigner 1............. And if we could get the rest of the southern states to secede, who knows, James, you may be elected president of something a lot bigger. (1)
James.......................... And the first thing I'd do is to put an end to those damned Northern abolitionists. (campaigner nods). Like that Hazard woman.
Brett............................ Perhaps you have forgotten, that the Hazard family are our friends.
Ashton....................... I'm afraid I neglected to tell you that Brett's keeping company with Virgilia's brother Billy.
Brett............................ We plan to be married.
James.......................... Well then, please accept my apology, (handkiss) ... and my deepest regrent. (turns off with Ashton)
(1) Historical: South Carolina turned to another secession attempt at this time. And with other states having similar movements, the idea came up, to form a new Union from these states with an adapted constitution, to act together stronger against the Uninated States.
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05.08 - Ashton Plots Against Billy
Start 14.05, Length 1.52
Participants:
> Statists: James Huntoon, guests
Location: Mont Royal, garden
Even on this day, Ashton cannot step aside from flirting with Formes, and wants to make use of him in her revenge on Billy.
Ashton....................... (to two young ladies) Isn't it the most beautiful little ring you ever saw? (all laughing) And when the sun shines, it just...
Forbes........................ (appears) I swear I've never seen anything so beautiful.
Ashton....................... Forbes, I'd thought you'd left. And without saying goodbye to me.
Forbes........................ I'm here to pay you my final respects and to escort you over to your husband. James seems unable to escape the attention of his political allies. May I? (leads her along) I wonder if your husband would be gracious enough to let me escort you to your bedroom. That is, if you felt a sudden headache coming on real suddenly.
Ashton....................... It would be rude of me to desert our guests.
Forbes........................ You once told me that if you married James, you'd still want me. Is that wold true?
Ashton....................... I never say anything I don't mean, Forbes, but... well, there is something, I want in return.
Forbes........................ Anything.
Ashton....................... It involves my sister and Billy Hazard.
Forbes........................ That sure is a crime, Brett wanting to marry that Yankee when she could have me.
Ashton....................... I might have married Billy, if it weren't for little sister, and the fact that he caught you and me in the cotton dock.
Forbes........................ He never said anything about that, did he?
Ashton....................... No. But it doesn't mean, he won't. James would divorce me quicker than a snake's smile, if he found out. And kill you. Now, there is a way to get rid of that Yankee, and not have anything to worry about... if you help me.
Forbes........................ What is going on in that devilish mind of yours.
Ashton....................... (laughs flattered) You find out... another time. I refuse to talk business on my wedding day.
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The wedding night does not turn out the way as James hoped for. Ashton refused herself, argueing with her inexperience.
Aston......................... James, no, oh James...
James.......................... Oh, Ashton.
Ashton....................... (struggles him off) No.
James.......................... Oh, Ashton. (Ashton turns away) Are you alright?
Ashton....................... Oh, must you talk about it? I'm so embarrassed.
James.......................... Oh, there's nothing to be ashamed of. Come, this being your first time and all, it's only natural.
Ashton....................... I had no idea, it would be so... discomforting.
James.......................... Ah, you'll learn to enjoy our lovemaking, I promise.
Ashton....................... You're not disappointed by my lack of experience, are you?
James.......................... No, on the contrary, I wouldn't have had it any other way.
Ashton....................... I saved myself for you, James. But you have to learn to be gentle with me and... and let me grow accustomed to my duty as your wife. A little patience and understanding is all I ask for.
James.......................... I'll try to make it easy on you. (kiss)
Ashton....................... There's no rush now, James. We have plenty of time for-- that. We have our whole lifes ahead of us, James.
James.......................... Why, yes of course, but we won't have to wait that long, will we?
Ashton....................... A whole life, James dear. Remember that now. (kiss) You go to sleep. Go on. Good night.
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One year later, Ashton complains to Orry over her role as a wife left back home, while James is out on campaign in New Orleans. But Orry does not give in.
Ashton.......................
It's as if I weren't even married. Having to move back while my husband having
a gay old time in
Orry............................. (concentrated at his desk, startles) What? - Out of question.
Ashton....................... Why? I wanna spend some time with my husband. We didn't even have a proper honeymoon.
Orry............................. Well, the secessionist movement is obviously of greater importance to James.
Ashton....................... It's important to both of us. I happen to share his views.
Orry.............................
Well, then you should realize the danger of what your husband is advocating for
Ashton....................... Well, maybe a raging fire is just what we need to get people like you to join our fight.
Orry............................. What is it gonna take, to make you understand, that we need Northern industry to survive? The seperation of states will only mean the South's downfall.
Ashton....................... What about slavery? Are you willing to do away with it? (Orry is silent) I hardly think so. It just wouldn't look right, you out there in the fields, side by side with Mom and Brett. (laughs)
Orry............................. You're right. You do belong to your husband.
Ashton.......................
(excited) Then you're gonna take me to
Orry............................. (rises) No. You're just gonna have to wait for him at his plantation, not this one. (goes off)
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05.11 - James'
Start 20.01, Length 1.51
Participants:
> Major Elkanah Bent (no text)
> Supporting roles: music band
> Statists: audience
Location opening 1: harbor, Mississippi steam boat
Location opening 2: entry with colums
Location scene: New Orleans, gathering hall
Simultanously,
James enters the stage in New Orleans and delivers a firy speech over the
rights of the individual states, that would not be recognized fully by
Washington. Sitting among the louldly applauding people in the audience, there
also is Elkanah Bent.
James..........................
(at the lectern) Let us not forget, my friends, we fought a revolution against
tyranny to form this nation. (audience: 'Yeah') Will we let the federal
government dictate to the state of
(1) Historical: James uses one of the factually used argument path in his speech to demand and justify secession. In this argument, states claim certain rights for themselves, granted by the U.S. Constitution. One of these rights woudld be the right to chose over the ownership of slaves. Now that the U.S. Government has taken this issue onto himself, so the Southern states argue, that Washington has violated the Constitution and thereby cannot be able to lead the Union accordingly. On these grounds, a secession from the Union or a dissolvation of the Union would be permitted and possible.
(2) Historical: The music band plays the song "Dixieland", or in short "Dixie", which rose to a fight song of the South before the war and to an inofficial hymn during the war, being a symbol of recognition for the Southern states up to this day.
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05.12 - In Madame Conti's Etablissement
Start 21.52, Length 4.16
Participants:
> Major Elkanah Bent
> Supporting roles: 2 of James' campaigners, 4 - 6 love ladies, servant Paul
> Statists: more Gäste of the house
Location opening: New Orleans, in the streets, at night
Location scene: noble brothel, parlor
After the event, James and his companions visit the noble Brothel of Madame Conti. By chance, Bent gets a glimpse of James' wedding picture, recognizes Orry, and questions on the remarkable woman in the back.
Campaigner 1............. (in a carriage) That was a fine speech.
Campaigner 2............. Yes, it was.
James.......................... (laughes)
Campaigner 1............. (entering) Your speach tonight was unqualified success, James.
Campaigner 2............. The crowd rose to their feet so many times, I lost count.
Bent............................ I consider myself extremely fortunate, Sir, to have heard you express your views - our views - so eloquently.
James.......................... Thank you, Major Bent. I'm glad you share our sentiments and not those of Mr. Jefferson Davis. (2, 3)
Bent............................
Well, many of us in the military abhor
Campaigner 1............. I will give him credit for his past herorism.
Campaigner 2............. 'Past' ist right. Now all he wants is peace, as if there could be such a thing.
Bent............................
If the union is dissolved and a new Southern nation falls under
James.......................... That would be a great loss to the South, Major Bent. So we must make shure that Mr. Davis is never in a position to cost us the service of men like you.
Madame Conti........... (appears with four of her ladies) Good evening, Gentlemen. I hope I haven't get you waiting.
Campaigner 2............. Your ladies are worth it, Madame Conti.
Madame Conti........... I like to think so. (to Bent) Otille will be available in half an hour or so. Perhaps one of the other girls?
Bent............................ Otille is the only one worth waiting for, as far as I'm concerned.
James.......................... (takes out his wallet) These gentlemen are my guests this evening, Madame Conti.
Madame Conti........... Gentlemen, make your selection. (the campaigner pair off) You'll excuse me, Gentlemen, but Mary-Lou is so new in the field, she doesn't know how to to fend for herself. And that's not good for my business. (leaves with the remaining girl)
Bent............................ (to James) You're a generous man, Sir.
James.......................... A man in my position likes to take care of his friends. (puts back his wallet, picture falls out)
Bent............................ (picks up the picture, astonished) Is this Orry Main?
James.......................... Yes. Do you know him?
Bent............................
Very well. We were at
James.......................... I'm proud to say so. My lovely wife there is Orry Main's sister.
Bent............................ Oh, she's beautiful, indeed. You're a lucky man. And who is this lady? I recall seeing her before.
James.......................... Madeline LaMotte. Close friend of the family.
Bent............................ That's peculiar. I don't recognize the name. Only the face is familiar. Of course, such beauty would be hard to forget. It'll come to me in time where I remember that face. But for now, Sir, my congratulations on your beautiful bride.
James.......................... Thank you, Major.
Madame Conti........... (returns with a lady) Will it be Suzanne again?
James.......................... Ah, yes, thank you, Madame. (pairs off)
Bent............................ Since I must wait for Otille, Madame, why don't we share a bottle of champagne in your office. I have a sudden desire to see that room again.
Madame Conti........... (walks along with Bent, to a servant) Paul, bring the finest bottle of champagne.
(2) Historical: Jefferson Davis, former U.S. Secretary of War, contemporary U.S. Senator from Mississippi. More on him see footnote to Episode 7 scene 9.
(3) Historical error: At the time of this scene (about mid 1859), Davis was still a senator in Washington. He finally resigned on Jan 9th, 1861 and went to Mississippi, where he was appointed as provisional President of the Confederacy on Feb 18th, 1861. There is no proof, that he already considered for the office of President at the time of this scene and how his policies would be in that case.
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05.13 - Bent Gets Informations On Madeline
Having
James' informations, Bent gets the brothel owner Madame Conti into a
conversation in her office and over the portrait of a woman looking similar to
the one on the photograph. Madame Conti tells him, that this was Lorette, a
quarter negro, wo has worked here, then married a customer and died at child
birth.
Bent............................ (looks at the portrait)
Madame Conti........... You've always admired that painting, Major?
Bent............................ Yes, I have. Didn't you once tell me, she used to work for you?
Madame Conti........... Oh, she was even more beautiful then Otille... and more expensive.
Bent............................ (takes a glass) To you, Madame. Your love of beauty is exceeded only by your love of money.
Madame Conti........... (smiles charmed) How true.
Bent............................ Whatever became with the woman?
Madame Conti........... She died quite a while ago. She was very special to me. I was lonely when she left. But she loved him, and there was nothing I could to.
Bent............................ Who was it that she loved?
Madame Conti........... A customer, with slightly less exotic tastes than yours. Why are you so curious?
Bent............................ Because the woman in that portrait remindes me of someone that I once loved, and lost. You and I share a most painful memory, Madame. Please, tell me about her.
Madame Conti........... Well, his name was Nicholas Fabray. He was a respected, very wealthy man. When Laurette told me, he'd ask her to marry him, I... I couldn't help but laugh. I told her, he didn't have to marry her to sleep with her. He'd already paid for that privilege.
Bent............................ But did they marry?
Madame Conti........... Yes. They had a child, a little girl. The birth was very hard. She died soon after.
Bent............................ What happened to the child?
Madame Conti........... Fabray left town soon after Laurette died, took their daughter. It was the best thing. Too many people knew, what her mother was. (1)
Bent............................ You mean, what she had been.
Madame Conti........... Was. A one-quarter Negress, a quadroon.
Bent............................ Then the child has nigger blood in it.
Madame Conti........... Laurette was never that to me.
Bent............................ It is indeed a tragic story, Madame. A sorry ending to the woman, who inspired that beautiful painting. You know, where the child is today?
Madame Conti........... (shakes her head) She must be a woman now. I only hope she's kept her secret. If it ever got out...
Bent............................ Now, certainly, it's safe with me, Ma'am. I asure you that.
Madame Conti........... Well, (rises) I'm sure, Otille is ready for you now. (leave)
(1) Script error: According to Madame Conti, Nicholas Fabray and new-born Madeline must have left New Orleans at least 15 years earlier to the first meeting of Orry and Madeline. This does not fit to Madeline's statement in episode 1 scene 4, where she told him, she just arrived from New Orleans recently, and that her driver was not used to South Carolina roads.
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Start 29.46, Length 2.45
Participants:
> Supporting roles: newspaper boy
> Statists: passengers
Location: train running
In 1859, Orry rides a train up North to George for paying him out his share from their cotton mill. Brett accompanies him to meet Billy in Philadelphia on their return trip. The tension between North and South gets shown in the conductor, who declines Orry's request even in Maryland already.
Brett............................ Billy's only got a short leave. You don't suppose, we could miss each other, do you?
Orry.............................
(playful sourly) No, I don't, Brett. We haven't even gotten to Belvedere, yet.
We won't be seeing Billy till we catch our train in
Brett............................ (they laugh) Well, I guess, I'm a little anxious.
Orry............................. No. (Brett laughs). I do know how you feel. 'Cause I hardly can't wait go give George his first share of the profits from the mill.
Brett............................ It'll be wonderful to see George and Constance again.
Orry............................. Yes, it will.
Brett............................ Thank you for letting me come along, Orry.
Orry............................. Well, it is more pleasant with a travelling companion, as you so astutely pointed out back home. (Brett laughts)
Porter.......................... (appeares) Train's due in the station in five minutes, folks! Five minutes!
Orry............................. Excuse me, Sir. We'll changing trains when we arrive and we have a lot of luggage. Could you find the baggage man for us in the depot?
Porter.......................... Couldn't say. May be you should have brought some of your slaves to help ya. (wants to leave)
Orry............................. I asked you a civil question.
Porter.......................... (pauses, then) I'll call the car porter. (leaves)
Orry............................. What is wrong with these people? We've run into nothing but his kinds since we've started this trip. Is it me? Am I doing something wrong?
Brett............................ You're speaking with a Southern accent.
Orry.............................
We are in
Brett............................ There are a lot of people here more Yankee than Southern. Everything has changed, Orry, since we visited the Hazards. I can feel it. We're not welcome here anymore.
Orry............................. And you still wanna marry Billy?
Brett............................ Just as much as you wanna remain friends with George.
Orry............................. (thinks) I want that, yes. But can I have it?
(2) Historical: The state of Maryland, being between Virginia, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania, had about half of it's inhabitants alligned to the cause of the South and the North. This indecisiveness at the doorsteps of Washington led to the Union to use political and military force to prevent Maryland from joining the Confederation. With Maryland being south of the Mason-Dixon-Linie, it is often referred as a Southern state, but the events of the following war tied it in effect to the North.
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Start 32.31, Length 7.25
Participants:
> Supporting roles: servant at the door
Location: Belvedere, study and parlor
First,
George is flabbergasted that their cotton mill shows so much profit and that
Orry delivers it to him in person. But with Virgilia appearing, who was at Belvedere
at that time, the situation quickly escalated by her accusations, and Orry
leaves the house with Brett in anger.
George........................
Eighty-thousand-dollars! I can't believe it, Orry. I can't wait till
Orry............................. Sort of like that train ride north.
George........................ (while walking over to the parlor) Will you relax? You ran into some ignorant people on the train. You know we're not all like that. Well, some of us are. What remindes me, that my sister's here.
Orry............................. (sits down) Virgilia's home?
George........................ Temporarily. She only comes home when she needs to. For money... (hands out a drink to Orry)
Orry............................. Thank you. (drinks).
George........................ ...and supplies for the cause. She looks like hell.
Orry.............................
Is ahm... she still living in
George........................ (sits down) You mean, if she's still married to Grady? (Orry nods) I think so, although she hasn't seen fit to tell us.
Orry............................. Must be very difficult for you.
George........................ It was terrible for my mother. I don't think, she'll ever get over Virgilia marrying a Negro.
Orry............................. You? What about you?
George........................
I could accept Virgilia's marriage if I understood her reasons for doing.
(drinks) -- Enough of that. How's Charles? Is he still down in
Orry.............................
No, past history. He has now crossed the
George........................ Ha! Thank God, there's one person in our two families that knows who he's fighting and why. (they laugh, drink)
George........................ (rises, admiring) It's beautiful.
Orry............................. (rises) Uh, I should say, you have never looked more lovely.
Brett............................ (spellbound) A Charles Worth original... (3)
Brett............................ Oh, it's beautiful.
Maude........................ It looks absolutely lovely on you, dear.
Isabel.......................... (approaching from the stairway) Virgilia, I warn you. Just this once, keep you dreadful opinion to yourself.
Virgilia........................ Get out of my way.
George........................ Virgilia, what a surprise.
Virgilia........................ Hello, Brett. Hello, Orry.
Orry............................. (low) Virgilia.
Brett............................ I hadn't heard, you were visiting.
Virgilia........................ Well, no wonder. I'm the best-kept secret in this family. Do you know, that George tried to lock me away in the attic? But I managed to escape, because I found this teeny tiny window and I crawled out. (laughes crazily)
Maude........................ Virgilia, please.
Virgilia........................
Well, you'll all be happy to hear that I'll be leaving first thing in the
morning for
Orry.............................
Who hasn't? He and his five sons butchered slavery settlers in
Virgilia........................ I expected, you'd say something like that, to slander anybody who dares to do something about slavery.
Isabel.......................... (to George) You should never alowed her to stay.
Orry............................. Is planning massacres the way you're gonna help him?
Virgilia........................ John Brown is the new messiah. And one day, he'll lead your slaves in a great revolution. And any man that stands in our way will die in blood and fire. And you'll be the first.
Orry............................. (to Brett) We're leaving now. Come on, Brett.
Maude........................ Oh no, Orry. Wait, please. (to Virgilia) You are my flesh and blood, but this time, you'd gone too far. Now I want you out of this house.
Virgilia........................ No, mother! Let them go. They won't listen to the truth. That one thing too much for a Southener to bear.
Orry............................. The truth? You don't even know the meaning of the word. And I am sick and tired of taking the blame for every wrong that's ever been done in the South. And I will not stand here and be lied by some filthy, twisted...
George........................ Orry, that's enough.
Orry............................. ...crazy woman. You and your black breeding farms - where do you get such fantasies? From yellow-back novels? Does just thinking about it arouse you? Is that why you married Grady, to find out for yourself?
George........................ I told you, to stop it.
Virgilia........................ You are an evil man, and evil sees evil in everything. But you and your kind are finished. I warned you, this day would come, and it's here!
Orry............................. Shut up! Shut you mouth! And get back to you nigger husband, where you belong!
George........................ I think, that apologies are in order.
Orry............................. This time, I won't accept them.
George........................ This time, you'll offer one to all of us.
Orry............................. You are taking her part on this?
George........................ I take issue with her word and her ways. But my sister's on the right side.
Orry............................. Then we have nothing more to say to each other.
George........................ You're right, we haven't.
Orry............................. Kindly have my luggage delivered to the Manor House Hotel. We will be leaving for home in the morning. Come on, Brett. (leaves with Brett)
Isabel.......................... (to George) If I didn't know better, I could swear, he deliberately provoked Virgilia in order to embarrass our family.
George........................ (furious) Not another word, Isabel! Not one more word! (leaves)
(2) Historical: Juan Cortina, 16.05.1824 - 30.10.1894, mexican rancher, 1859-61 guerilla leader against Texas. (Wikipedia)
(3) Historical: Charles Frederick Worth, 13.10.1825 - 10.05.1895, british and contemporary most renowned haute couture designer in Paris. (Wikipedia)
(5) Historical: John Brown in fact prepared in Chambersburg from Juni to Oktober 1859 for his raid on Harper's Ferry. Orry comment about him having killed slave-owning settlers in Kansas is correct as well. More in footnote to scene 19.
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Later on, George shows to be deeply affected by the friends tension between each other.
George........................ I don't believe, he did that. How could he just leave and not apologize for what he said?
George........................ Well, you're the one who keeps insisting we let her in, everytime she comes scratching at the door.
George........................ Are you sure, it's marriage, and not just a political statement?
George........................ I want to believe that. I know, it's easier to blame Virgilia for everything, but it doesn't change the difference between Orry's and my believes.
George........................ (lays down beside her)
George........................ I know that, but my feelings are just as strong as his. I'm not advocating Virgilia's or John Brown's methods. But I don't believe, that a man should be held in bondage simply because his skin is black. Now, how can I oppose everything that Orry stands for and still be his friend?
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Start 41.53, Length 2.44
Participants:
> Lt Billy Hazard
> Statists: passengers, waiting people, railroad staff
Location: Philadelphia Depot
As
planned, Billy and Brett meet at the depot of Philadelphia. But Orry refuses
his consent to marry Brett even directly to Billy. Just before the train
leaves, Billy sees Virgilia boarding another car of the same train.
Billy............................. (to Brett) I love you.
Brett............................ I love you, too.
Billy............................. Well, wish me luck. (walks over to Orry) Orry? I wanna thank you for letting Brett see me. (Orry nods) I know, it wasn't something you found easy to do.
Orry............................. She told you about what happened at Belverere?
Billy............................. Yes. That's between you and my brother. It's got nothing to do with Brett and me.
Orry............................. No, Billy, I disagree.
Billy............................. We wanna be married. You can't withhold your consent because of what happened with George.
Orry............................. No, of course not. But I was and still am unsure about your marriage for the very reason your brother and I disagreed on.
Billy............................. You expect us to wait until the problems of this country are solved?
Orry............................. That might be a very wise decission.
Billy............................. And what if we decide to go ahead and get married without your permmision?
Orry............................. I don't believe, my sister will go against the wishes of her family. But of course, you're free to ask her.
Billy............................. Thank you, I intend to do just that.
Orry............................. Excuse me. (walks over to Brett) Come on.
Billy............................. (follows, to Brett) It's alright. We work it out somehow. (kiss)
Brett............................ I'll write to you.
Billy............................. Alright. Goodbye.
Porter.......................... Board! Board on, please!
Orry............................. Let's go. (boards the train with Brett)
Billy............................. (turns to leave the station) Virgilia! What are you doing here?
Virgilia........................ (appears) I'm going back where I belong, Billy. (boards the train)
Billy............................. What?
Porter.......................... Board on! (train leaves)
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Shortly, Brett revolts against Orry's subborn stance on the marriage.
Brett............................ (arroused) It's my life. I should be the one to decide, not you.
Orry............................. Now you're talking like Ashton. If you intend to defy me, you tell me straight out.
Brett............................ (calmer) No, I won't do that. At least not while there's still a chance you might change your mind.
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Start 45.29, Length 10.31
Participants:
> Oliver, one of Brown's men
> Garrison Grady (†)
> Priam (†)
> Supporting roles: man and woman at the platform, riding messenger, running messenger, militia men
> Statists: passengers, railroad staff, more of Brown's men
Location: train running, then Harper's Ferry depot
At
the small depot of Harper's Ferry, the passengers are woken up suddenly and
ordered to get out by the forced of guns. The leader of the men is a tall,
bearded man callim himself "Captan Smith, president of the provisional
U.S. Government". Orry recognizes him as John Brown, whom Virgilia has
talked about. When Orry refuses to comply the orders, he gets threatened by
Grady with a gun. Then Virgilia disboards her car as well. Suddenly, Priam runs
up and pleads Grady to spare Orry on the grounds that Orry had let him rum off
years ago. When miltia was approaching, Brown ended the action and lets the
train roll on. The miltia attacks, Priam and Grady were killed by gunshots, and
Virgilia was taken hostage.
Raider......................... (to the engineer) Lock those brakes and get out here!
Raider......................... Get running! (shot)
Raider......................... Let's go! Make sure nobody gets off the train! The second car. (steps into the wagon with a shotgun) Just stay were you are! (shot outside)
Conductor.................. (appears) Ladies and Gentlemen, you have to get off the train.
Brett............................ Where are we?
Conductor.................. We'd been detoured. We're at Harper's Ferry, Miss. Now please hurry. They already shot one man. Come on. (all unboarding)
Oliver.......................... (at the platform) Step lively, now. We're gonna make you slavers dance to a different tune.
Raider.........................
We're here to free the slaves in
Passenger 1............... I demand to know, why we're being held like this.
Oliver.......................... (Orry hits his gun away, Oliver aims at him) One more move, and you won't be travelling on, slaver.
Brown......................... (appears) Put down your gun, Oliver. We have no quarrel with these people.
Orry............................. I take it that you are the leader here, Sir.
Brown.........................
I am, Sir. And I advice you, to use a more respectful tone, when speaking to me
and my men. You have the honor of addressing Captain Smith, commander-in-chief
of the provisional government of the
Orry............................. You talk as though we're at war, Sir.
Brown.........................
We most certainly are at war. My men and I came all the way from
Passenger 2............... What will you do to us?
Brown......................... Mean you no harm. But the militia must be convinced of our purpose, to free the slaves of this state. When they call for a truce, then we'll negotiate for your release. But I warn you: one move is made against me and my men, we shoot to kill. (turns off)
Oliver.......................... Alright, Slavers. Into the station house.
Raider......................... You heard the man.
Raider......................... Move on, ladies, get in there.
Raider......................... Step lively, now. (all leave except Orry and Brett)
Virgilia........................ (unboards, joins Grady) He's magnificent, isn't he?
Orry............................. Virgilia.
Virgilia........................ I was taking your advice, Mr. Main. I was going back to my 'nigger husband'. But Grady found me first, along with his brave soldiers.
Orry............................. Don't you see, you're in terrible danger here?
Grady.......................... (ains his shotgun on Orry) Stay where you are. We got orders to shoot anyone who gives us trouble.
Virgilia........................ And surely you can guess who issued those orders, Mr. Main. He may call himself Captain Smith, but we know who he is, don't we? We once talked about the man who would save this country. And I am so happy you had finally met the great John Brown.
Orry............................. Grady, you have to get her away from here. Don't you know what's gonna happen to all of you? Listen to me.
Grady.......................... Don't wanna hear nothing from you. So go on with the others, before I kill you. --
Orry............................. (imploring) Put the gun down, Grady, and get Virgilia outta here.
Grady.......................... I don't take orders from trash like you, not anymore. Thousands more slaves, just like I was, gone join us here. Captain say so. Anybody try to stop us, their blood gone run in the street.
Virgilia........................ That's right, blood is going to run.
Orry............................. Grady, Grady, don't you see, you can't win. The blood will be your's.
Grady.......................... (pulls the cocks) Then, white man, I'll have your's first.
Brett............................ NO!
Priam........................... (appears) Grady, no! Leave him be.
Orry............................. (puzzled) Priam.
Priam........................... Yes, Mr. Orry. You never expected to see me again, did you?
Orry............................. Oh, Priam.
Priam........................... I belonged to his daddy. But it's Mr. Orry here let me go free. If it wasn't for him I'd be dead these ten years.
Virgilia........................ (imploring) Priam, you're with us now. You're a free man and you don't owe him anything.
Priam........................... Freedom up North is just not what I thought it would be. Most folks don't treat Negroes no better. I come to the Captain cause I ain't have nowhere else to go and I just got so sick and tired of running and hiding and... I just wanted to fight like a man and die like one.
Raider......................... (rides up) Captain! Captain! I heard the militia is on it's way. Some of them townfolks got guns, too.
Brown......................... Alright, get these people back on the train, we're going to move it out.
Oliver.......................... What about hostiges?
Brown......................... Take them out of the town. MOVE! We don't have much time.
Oliver.......................... Alright, get those people back on the train.
Grady.......................... Your heard him. Move! (Orry and Brett board the train, the other passengers come back and follow) Virgilia, you've gotta get back on the train. This no place for you.
Virgilia........................ No, I'm not leaving.
Grady.......................... It too dangerous.
Virgilia........................ I love you, I wanna be with you.
Grady.......................... Virgilia, don't. Gotta let me go.
Raider......................... Alright, get them logs out of there!
Raider......................... We ain't got much time now.
Raider......................... (with John Brown a-horse) Come on, let's go! Quick! To the town! (ride off)
Raider......................... Do a little work.
Raider......................... (to the engineer) Get up there. (train leaves)
Raider......................... (appears running) Grady! Grady! Priam! You better make tracks. The militia be is almost here! (runs by)
Grady.......................... (to Virgilia) You heard that. Now you gotta hide. I'll come back for you later.
Virgilia........................ No, I want to stay with you and fight.
Grady.......................... Virgilia, please.
Priam........................... (frantic) Please, Ma'am, you got to.
Militia leader.............. (takes position in the bushes with his squads) There's some of them renegades. Ready - aim - fire. (volley, Priam shot)
Grady.......................... (takes cover with Virgilia) Stay down!
Militia leader.............. Second squad - advance. (squad advances, Grady shoots, squad halts) Ready - aim - fire! (volley) First squad - advance. (Grady shoots) Take care of that man.
Virgilia ....................... (steps out of cover, takes Priam's gun) I'll show you I can fight. (shoots)
Grady.......................... (steps out of cover) Virgilia! (grabs her)
Militia leader.............. Ready - aim - fire! (volley, Grady shot)
Virgilia........................ Grady!!
Militia leader.............. Second squad - advance.
Grady.......................... (shaking voice) At least I was a free man, but I am...
Virgilia........................ Oh not, Grady, you're not gonna die.
Grady.......................... Virgilia, ... always ... remember ... I ... love ... you (dies)
Virgilia........................ Nooooo!! (militia advances up to her) Murderers! You're all murderers!
Militia leader.............. Come on, come on.
Virgilia........................ Don't you touch my husband. I'll see you rot in hell first. You think he's dead, don't you? He's not dead, he's free.
Militia man................. Come on, Missy, let's go.
Militia man................. Come on, Ma'am. (they carry her away)
Virgilia........................ Grady! Grady! Grady!
Historical: Harper's Ferry, VA (today in WV): 16.10.1859, Brown's men take several town people hostage, hold up a Baltimore & Ohio RR (the colored car porter Hayward Shepherd is being shot), but let it continue it's ride unmolested, which carried the news of the event to Washington next morning; the spontaneous joining by local blacks - as hoped by Brown - did not occur; 17.10. captures the Harper's Ferry arsenal, but surrounded my militia and citizens; President Buchanan orders Brevet Colonel Robert E. Lee (on family visit at Arlington, VA that time) out; 18.10. after unsuccessful deliberations, Lee's miltia storms the arsenal; 10 of Brown's men dead, 7 captured (Brown among them), 5 escaped, besides 6 civilians and 2 militia dead. (Wikipedia)
(1) Historical error: The real train stopped by John Brown at Harper's Ferry was on it's journey to the East, so to carry the news of the event to Washington, D.C. According to the film story, the train came from Philadelphia and travelled to the South. A detour (according to the conductor) to Harper's Ferry would have been way to far to the West, and according the contemporary train network would never have gone to Washington or on to Virginia. Besides, this train would have run in the opposite direction.
(2) Historical: John Brown, 09.05.1800 - 02.12.1859, militant abolitionist, 24.05.1856 Pottawatomie Massacre (killing of 5 slavery supporters in Kansas in retalliation of the beaten-down slave uprising in that region), calls himself Isaac Smith, 16.-18.10.1859 unsuccessful raid on Harper's Ferry to free slaves and start an uprising, 02.12.1859 executed at the gallows after verdict, then made a martyr in the North (song: "John Brown's Body"). (Wikipedia)
(3) Historical: Brown man "Oliver" could be his joungest son Oliver Brown (21, wo would be badly wounded in the upcoming seizure of the arsenal and died because on that the next day. Siehe Wikipedia article above.
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05.20 - Development Considerations
Orry and Brett read in the newspaper, that John Brown had been executed, and they fear his change in the North from a fellon to a martyr.
Orry............................. (reads newspaper) They never should've hung him. 'Cause while he lived, he was just a lunatic, and now they turn him into a martyr. Emerson's even calling him a saint. (1)
Brett............................ I have nightmares thinking about that night at Harper's Ferry. And yet, bad as it seemed, I feel sorry for those men.
Orry............................. Sorry? Brett, don't you understand where he got the support for his raid? From Northern abolitionists. They gave him money to arm slaves. The Marines found hundreds of guns in this farmhouse where he stayed.
Brett............................ Weapons for the slaves he thought would join him?
Orry............................. Yes. The South will stand for a lot of things, but not for Yankees giving Negroes guns to murder white men. Now even the Southeners who don't own slaves will go get against the North.
Brett............................ You're talking about a war, between us and people that we love.
Orry............................. I'm afraid, there may be no way to stop it now. (stumps down) How stupid.
(1) Historical: Ralph Waldo Emerson, 25.05.1803 - 27.04.1882, philosoph, preacher and influencal contemporary author (Wikipedia). Orry's remark is correct. According to an article from Nov 11th, 1859 in the abolitionistic newspaper "The Liberator" (publisher: William Lloyd Garrison, see footnote on scene 22), Emerson calls John Brown in a lecture "the saint, whose fait yet hangs in suspense, but whose martyrdom, if it shall be perfected, will make tha gallows as glorious as the cross" (to the article)
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05.21 - Greene Gets Virgilia Out
Start 58.00, Length 3.51
Participants:
> Sam Greene, congressman
> Supporting roles: 2 prosin guards, choir
> Statists: inmates, coach driver
Location: insane assylum, outside, inside, cell
Congressman Sam Greene visits Vorginia in an insane assylum in Washington and offers his help to get her out. Hesitantly, Virgilia accepts.
(choir sings "John Brown's Body")
Greene........................ (arrives, walks up, is brought to Virgilia's cell) Hello, Virgilia.
Virgilia........................ (looks up) Congressman Greene.
Greene........................
It's been a long time since that night you made a speech in
Virgilia........................ What do you want here?
Greene........................ I come to take you out. All the arrangements have been made.
Virgilia........................ I don't understand.
Greene........................ You're free to go, my dear.
Virgilia........................ No. No, there was an insurrection in Harper's Ferry. I wanna stand trial for my part on it.
Greene........................ As far as the world is concerned, you had no part on it.
Virgilia........................ That isn't true.
Greene........................ Your enemies are not going to give you the platform of a trial. They realized now, it was a fatal error to condemn and execute John Brown. Virgilia, please. They hear those voices outside the window, too. They don't want another martyr right now, especially not a woman. (reaches out) Virgilia, you can't help the cause, or yourself, by staying here. Come with me. Please. (Virgilia slowly takes his hand) (2)
(2) Historical: The change of view presented by Greene, where the execution of Brown has heated the North-South conflict unnecessarily, is given historically correctly. Thereby, all details of the event at Harper's Ferry and the following judical proceedings were kept close until after the Civil War.
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05.22 - Greene Questions Virgilia
Start 1.01.51, Length 5.32
Participants:
> Statist: servant
Location: Washington, Greene's house, dining room
Sam
offers Virgilia a bath and a small meal, questions her and expresses his
feelings on her again. Virgilia acts reserved, thanks him, but again refers to
his marital status.
Virgilia........................ How did you know, where to find me? You never knew me by the name I use now. (sits down)
Greene........................
I admit, you made it difficult. I'd heard some time ago, you'd taken residence
with a former slave named Grady, that you'd helped to escape from
Virgilia........................ (starts to eat) Most people did.
Greene........................ Then I read an account of the raid at Harper's Ferry. The name 'Garrison Grady' appeared on a list of the dead. I wasn't sure if it is the same Grady. Because that first name is very unusual for a Negro.
Virgilia........................
He took his name from Garrison, the great
Greene........................
That thought occurred. So I made some inquiries. I asked about the woman who
was questioned but not held in
Virgilia........................ They put me in this, so everyone would think I was crazy.
Greene........................ And are you?
Virgilia........................ What do you think?
Greene........................ (pauses) I assume, you used the name Mrs. Grady to spare your family embarrasment.
Virgilia........................ (laughs bitterly) My family? Those hypocrits? No, my dear congressman.
Greene........................ Please... call me Sam.
Virgilia........................ If you prefer, Sam. (Greene nods) I didn't want my family to know where I was, not to spare them emparresment, but to keep them - especially my brother George - from interfering. I wanted my day in court.
Greene........................ I understand that.
Virgilia........................ But the reason for calling myself Missis is, because that's what I am. And I'm proud of it.
Greene........................ You mean to say, that you acually married... that is to say, you and Grady took legal vows?
Virgilia........................ We loved each other. He was a good, good man.
Greene........................ I'm sure, he was. And he died in a good cause, a noble cause.
Virgilia........................ His death will be avenged.
Greene........................ Many people in the North are already demanding it, for all the heroes of Harper's Ferry.
Virgilia........................ Well, I'm not one of those. So why did you bother to get me out?
Greene........................ My dear Virgilia, you may remember that some years ago, I expressed by interrest in you.
Virgilia........................ I do. When I gave my first speech, you were kind enough to compliment me on it.
Greene........................ I complemented you on more than your speech, if you recall.
Virgilia........................ And I recall reminding you of your marriatal status. Has that changed?
Greene........................ No. I'm as married as I ever was. But my dear Virgilia, I'm not asking you to forget that.
Virgilia........................ I'm glad, you're not. Sam, I may never get over Grady's death. But if I ever do think about another man, I would have to think about another marriage.
Greene........................ Don't make your terms to hard and fast, my dear.
Virgilia........................ Meaning what? Meaning, I've had lost some value, some bargaining position by marrying Grady?
Greene........................ No, it's not that. No, I mean that the man you should be with, ought to be a man who can best serve your needs. He may prove to be married. He may even prove to be me.
Virgilia........................ I never asked you for your help, Sir.
Greene........................ But some day you might. And I would be in the position to help you. I'm rapidly becoming one of the most powerful men in Congress, and I generally get what I want.
Virgilia........................ I understand. I'm grateful for the help you gave me tonight. (rises) Please don't bother to get up. I prefer to leave on my own power. And if I do ever need your help again, I thank you for telling me your terms in advance. (leaves)
(1) Historisch: William Lloyd Garrison, 13.12.1805 - 24.05.1879, journalist, publisher of "The Liberator" and abolitionist. (Wikipedia)
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05.23 - Election Parade At Lehigh Station
Start 1.07.23, Length 3.04
Participants:
> George Hazard (now with a mustache)
> Statists: Participants in the parade, viewers and pedestrians
Location: Lehigh Station, in the streets, at night
Autumn
of 1860, the election campain is in full swing. At Lehigh Station, followers
for the candidate Abraham ("Honest Abe") Lincoln parade the streets.
George and Constance are watching this with mixed feelings between admiration
and fear. Then, Constance opens to her husband, that she finally is pregnant
now.
Chant.......................... Put Abe in the White House!
Chant.......................... Abe's our man!
Chant.......................... Abraham Lincoln for president!
Chant.......................... Volte for Honest Abe!
George........................
I know that,
George........................ And if he is, the next marching that boy does will be off to war.
George........................
I'm all for a Republican victory,
George........................
Yes, but everything that I do is opposed to what Orry stands for. That's what
makes it so hard for me to go to him. And if we go to war, what's wrong between
us will never been made right. Orry will be my enemy. War is killing,
George........................
(unsure)
George........................ But this time it's true?
George........................ (laughes) Oh, I love you.
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05.24 - Election Preparations In Philadelphia
Start 1.10.27, Length 0.58
Participants:
> Statists: more campaign helper
Location opening: Philadelphia, street, at daytime
Location scene: basement room
In
Philelphia, campaining is active as well. Here, Virgilia tries to gather votes
for Gerrit Smith, who wants to redeem John Brown.
Virgilia........................ After we do that, we must continue to remind people, that Gerrit Smith was a supporter of John Brown.
Helper 1...................... Do you think that's wise, Mrs. Grady? I just meant that, committing himself to an asylum after the raid... (1)
Virgilia........................
It was because he was afraid that he might be assassinated by a Southern
slaver. Don't you believe, that Mr. Smith will defeat that
Helper
2...................... Of course we do, Mrs. Grady.
Virgilia........................
Helper 2...................... I know, Mrs. Grady. But Gerrit Smith won't forget it.
Virgilia........................ I won't let anyone forget. We will finish what we began at Harper's Ferry.
(1) Historical error: This motive is historical, but place, time and person is not. It wasn't Gerrit Smith after Harper's Ferry in 1859, but William Lloyd Garrison, wo seclured himself for one night in 1835 in the Boston Prison in hiding from a mob, after being unwelcomed as guest speaker at the lokal anti slavery society. A direct contact or any participation of John Brown or a presidential run of Gerrit Smith is unknown.
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At Resolute, there are different moods. Madeline has lost heir strength and longs for her tonicum, of whish she has grown addicted by now.
Leah............................ (enters the room)
Madeline.................... Where have you been?
Leah............................ I'm only a few minutes late, Miss Madeline.
Madeline.................... Where's my tonic? Give it to me. (grabs the bottle, dinks)
Leah............................ I'm supposed to measure it out.
Madeline.................... Where's Maum Sally? She wouldn't have kept me waiting. Where is she? I need her.
Leah............................ Maum Sally? She.. she died, Miss Madeline. Don't you remember? (leaves)
(1) Übersetzungsfehler: Leah sagt hier im Original wörtlich: "Ich soll es für Sie abmessen."
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dt Start 1.11.44, Length 1.10
en Start 1.12.44, Length 1.10
Participants:
> Statists: slave
Location: Resolute, veranda
On the other hand, Justin and Forbes are patriotically and hopefully looking forwart to secession.
Justin..........................
(reads the newspaper) Good for them. Our boys are leaving
Forbes........................ How long before the war? What's your guess?
Justin.......................... No more than a year. I'm planning to raise a personal regiment, which I intend to offer to... (Madeline appears and walks along the veranda) Evening, dear. Would you care for some refreshment?
Madeline.................... No, thank you. I don't care for any. (walks by)
Justin.......................... (watches her) Still a handsome woman.
Forbes........................ A bit pale for my taste. But the change in her disposition is remarkable, Uncle. She seems so much calmer the last year or so.
Justin..........................
Yes, I'm a fortunate man. Now tell me, what is the news? What are they saying
in
(1) Historical: When the division between North and South seems a war to be unavoidable, many cades and officers from Southern states left West Point and the army for their home states. But in reality, this exodus started in ernest only when the first states factually left the Union (autumn of 1860 to spring of 1861).
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05.27 - Orry Quarrels With Brett
Start 1.13.54, Length 4.14
Participants:
Location opening: Mont Royal, veranda, at night
Location scene: Mont Royal, study
Orry
is deeply depressed. Ne not only is unable to fulfill his desire on Madeline,
now his friendship to George is in shambles as well, just as the whole country
seems to drown in pure chaos. When Brett ultimatively asks for his approval, he
slaps her in the face. He instantly regrets this, but Brett wouldn't accept his
appologies.
(Orry throws a glass into the fireplace, Brett enters the room)
Orry............................. What do you want?
Brett............................ I thought the house had fallen down.
Orry............................. (laughes) Just give it time, Brett. (rises) A house devided cannot stand, (staggers) ... neither can I. Didn't I tell you to stay outta here? (1)
Brett............................ Orry, you can't avoid me forever. You know what I wanna talk to you about.
Orry............................. Well, I don't wanna talk about Billy Hazard, or any Hazard. (sits down) The entire subject is just distasteful to me, and therefore closed.
Brett............................
No! Orry, I had been waiting for a time when you would be sober and
sympathetic, the kind of brother you used to be. Now I'm not sure if that will
ever happen, and I can't wait any longer. I've had a letter from Billy. He's
coming here to
Orry............................. What?
Brett............................
He's been assigned to
Orry............................. I forbid it.
Brett............................ Orry, I want peace in this family, and I want your approval. But now I'm not even sure that it matters.
Orry............................. You explain that.
Brett............................ I don't think, you're qualified to make my decissions anymore. Or even your own. George Hazard was the only real friend you ever had. Ever since you quarreled with him, you've been mad at the world. You shut yourself off, you drink alone, you never smile. Well, I'm sorry for you, but I'm not gonna let you ruin my life, too.
Orry............................. (jumps up) Then you intend to marry Billy Hazard and forget about your family?
Brett............................
Family? Mother's on my side. And Charles is still Billy's best friend, even if
he's off in
Orry.............................
Brett, if
Brett............................ Well, I'd rather be a fool that what you are, somebody who doesn't care.
Orry............................. Brett, I do care.
Brett............................ Then why can't you understand what we feel. Is it because you've never let yourself be human enough to fall in love?
Orry............................. Whether I love or whether I do not love, is none of your concern.
Brett............................ I pity you, Orry. You're afraid to let a woman mean something to you.
Orry............................. (slaps her in the face) -- Brett! Brett, I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
Brett............................ Maybe you are, but it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter at all. (leaves)
(1) Historical: Orry cites from the famous "House Devided"
speech of Abraham Lincoln at his nomination to presidental candidate in 1860.
In this speech he said, "A house
devided against itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure,
permanently, half slave and half free. I do not expect the
(3) Historical: Sullivans Island is a peninsula in the harbor opening of Charleston, the location of U.S. Fort Moultrie. Today it is a hostorical landmark. (Wikipedia)
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Start 1.18.08, Length 0.54
Participants:
> Jed, slave
Location opening: Mont Royal, veranda
Location scene: Mont Royal, study
Am nächsten Morgen erwacht Orry nach schwerem Alkoholgenuss und erfährt, dass Brett Mont Royal verlassen hat und zu James und Ashton nach Charleston gezogen ist.
Jed...............................
Mist'r Orry, Mist'r Orry. Mist'r Orry, Miss Brett, she's gone. She's gone to
Orry.............................
Jed............................... Yes, Sir. Miss Brett, she took four trunks, and Cuffey to drive her.
Orry............................. (picks himself up from the floor) Was she going to a hotel?
Jed............................... No, Sir. She said, she'd be with Miss Ashton, I mean: Mrs. Huntoon. Miss Brett say, she don't know when she coming back.
Orry............................. (slowly rises from the floor) Ahm, Jed, clean this up and get the windows opened here.
Jed............................... Yes, Sir.
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05.29 - Hotheads In The Streets
Start 1.19.02, Length 0.25
Participants: ---
> Supporting roles: two merchants, driver of a show carriage
> Statists: pedestrians
Location: Charleston, in the streets
In the streets of Charleston, merchants sell cockards for the citizens to show their patriotism and by that their rejection to the politics of the North.
Merchant 1................ Support the secession, buy a cockade for your bonnet. (1)
Merchant 2................ Cockade here, Sir, for your bonnet, for your lapel?
Merchant 1................ Wear cockades.
Merchant
2................ (carriage with
Merchant 1................ Save your Southern way of life, buy a cockade for your bonnet or lapel.
Driver.......................... Here, he is, here's the gorilla. Here's gorilla Abe.
(1) Historisch: In South Carolina, in fact there were distributed cockades made of fabric colored in red, white and blue. Wearing these, you showed support to Southern way of life und secession. Later, the North developed similar pins, this time to mark the support for keeping the Union together and to identify political partners at first sight. (Wikipedia unrelating to the Civil War). Later, the looks of these cockards faded into oblivion, but were rediscovered by historical studies for this miniseries. DIe cockades used in this film are on display now at the Museum on Fort Sumter.)
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05.30 - Brett At Huntoon's House
Ashton shows herself euphoric because she senses secession and by this the rise of her husband to be eminent. When she hears from Brett, that Billy will be stationed near Charleston, she pretends to be a helpful and understanding sister.
Ashton....................... (enters the room, smashes the door) Ah, good, you're up.
Brett............................ (stirred) I am now.
Ashton....................... Isn't this the sweetest hat you ever saw? You see this here? This is what makes it a secession bonnet. Isn't it sweet?
Brett............................ It's lovely, Ashton, except for the name.
Ashton....................... Well, I'm on my way now, but I'll have some coffee sent up for you. It's way past noon, I won't be back before supper.
Brett............................ I guess we can talk tonight, then? About Billy and the wedding.
Ashton....................... Why, yes, I think we should. Now, honey, you know that you're welcome to stay here as long as you like, as far as I'm concerned, but... well, it's just a good thing that James is in Columbia helping organize the secession convention.
Brett............................ Why's that?
Ashton....................... So we have time to make up a story. We can't tell James that you came here just to marry Billy Hazard. I think, the last time they saw each other, Billy knocked James down and called him a custard-face son-of-a... something-or-other.
Brett............................ I'm sorry, Ashton. Maybe I shouldn't have come to you.
Ashton....................... Oh you hush now. James is an old custard-face. (both laughing) But don't you fret, I'll handle him, and old brother Orry, too.
Brett............................ Dear Ashton.
Ashton.......................
And we'll think of some way to make Billy feel welcome, in spite of what some
folks here say about the Yankee vermin at
Brett............................ Billy and I know what we face, in both parts of the country. But we love each other, so we're not gonna let it matter.
Ashton....................... It's your life, little sister.
Brett............................ It's not just mine. We hope, our marriage is gonna bring our families together again. Ashton? You don't still care for Billy, do you?
Ashton.......................
(laughes) Why, that was just a silly little infatuation. I have the marriage I
need to get where I'm going. And we're soon have you married, too. (kiss) Right
now, I've got to run. I have never seen
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Start 1.22.20, Length 2.48
Participants:
> Statists: pedestrians (opening)
Location opening: LaMotte's house, outside
Location scene: LaMotte's houseHaus, bedroom
Ashton directly walks to Forbes LaMotte's town estate and therein directly into his bed. There she pushes Forbes to do something about Billy.
Ashton....................... Well, it was all I could do not to do slap her silly face. Imagine her even thinking of marrying that Yankee. But of course, I pretended to sympathize.
Forbes........................ You did?
Ashton....................... Well, naturally. So that I can have them both where I want them, when time comes.
Forbes........................ Time for what?
Ashton....................... For getting even. Forbes LaMotte, you haven't forgotten? You promised, that you'd help me to get even with Brett and Billy Hazard. Now, you know, that that's the only reason why I come here.
Forbes........................ The only reason?
Ashton....................... Maybe not the only reason. You are a wonderful lover, Forbes. Not like James. Even if I wanted to sleep with James, he's either too busy or too tired or too far away. I think he put's all he's got into politics.
Forbes........................ Honey, James Huntoon doesn't know what he's got. Or if he does, doesn't know what to do with it. Let's not talk about him, or Brett, or that Yankee. (kiss)
Ashton....................... Now, don't get previous. I wanna know what you're prepared to do.
Forbes........................ Can't you tell, darling?
Ashton....................... I mean about stopping Brett from marrying Billy Hazard. And from that Yankee telling James about you and me in the cotton dock.
Forbes........................ Well, I got no objection about killing Hazard, or any other Yankee, for that matter. But if he's posted to do that Yankee fort, and that baboon Lincoln's elected, there's gonna be war. And the Yankees in the harbour will be the first ones to die. So what's the worry?
Ashton....................... Well, I just don't like leaving something so personal for some old war to take care of it.
Forbes........................ Of course, I could let him marry her and then kill him. Then I'd have a wealthy widow and I'd be rich no matter how the war turns out.
Ashton....................... Even after she passed you over for him? Don't you have any pride, Forbes?
Forbes........................ I guess, not. I leave the pride (kiss) and the thinking (kiss) up to you. (kiss) Just tell me what you want and I'll do it - like always (sex)
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05.32 - Election Party In
Start 1.25.08, Length 3.16
Participants:
> Lieutenant Billy Hazard
> Lieutenant Meade
> Lieutenant Snyder
> Supporting roles: music band, shouting viewers
> Statists: viewers, pedestrians
Location: Building and open place in Charleston
James
Huntoon deliviers a public secession speech in Charleston. As a signal, he
replaces the U.S. flag of the building with the state flag of South Carolina,
whilst the music band plays "Dixie". Billy is in the crowd watching
this, until he is met and excorted to the fort by two other officers without a
chance to see Brett.
James..........................
(speech from a balcony) And if the Yankees want to elect
Meade........................ (appears among the spectators) Lieutenant Hazard?
Billy............................. At your service.
Meade........................ Lieutenant Meade. This is Lieutenant Snyder.
Billy............................. (salutes) Sir.
Meade........................
We're here to provide your safe conduct for
Billy............................. It's beginning to feel like I'm on foreign soil.
Snyder........................ There are some safer tours of duty for Northern officers these days.
Billy............................. Why, I didn't think it would be this bad already.
James..........................
(from the balcony) This is what secession really means, my friends! That we get
to keep what's ours: our honor, our pride, and our slaves! (applause, band
plays "
Spectator 1................. We want our slaves.
Spectator 2................. Let the yankees come down here.
Spectator
3................. And if Abe Lincoln don't like it, he can go back to
Billy.............................
They're ready to fight, and
Meade........................ We're to hold the fort, no matter what happenes.
Snyder........................ We'd better get back. (they walk along)
Billy.............................
So I was wondering if I... I might take a short leave to visit fmy fiancée.
She's staying very near here in
Meade........................
Your fiancée is in
Billy............................. Yes, Sir.
Meade........................ Then you send her home at once.
Billy............................. This is her home.
Meade........................ She's a Southern girl?
Billy............................. Yes, Sir, she is, and we want to be married here, first chance we get.
Meade........................ Well, that's another problem, Lieutenant. As to seeing your fiancée now, I'm afraid that's out of the question.
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Start 1.28.24, Length 1.19
Episode 5
Start 0.00, Length 1.29.43
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