02x02 - Mormon Story

[bunniefuu]

[theme music]

[music continues]

[male narrator] 1868, a terrible Civil w*r was three years in the past.

The Golden Railroad spike

which was to tie two oceans together

would be pounded home one year in the future.

And the first great herd of cattle

was driven up the dusty trails from Texas.

It was a time of expl*sive enterprise

and enormous tension

for the Civil w*r had left thousands

homeless and impoverished.

Peaceful religious sects were still facing

dreadful persecution.

And the bitterness between Indian and white

was reaching a cl*max.

The West, once a land of possum but tranquil beauty

had become a battleground for a hundred diverse reasons.

And in the midst of these conflicting process

stood the settlers.

Among them, one family named Macahan

and a man called Zeb.

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

Macahan's coming in!

[door hinges creak]

Major?

[Drake] 'Yo, Mac!'

Macahan's on his way in, sir.

- Oh, thank the Lord. - I know what you mean.

We're all getting a little edgy.

Get him in here the moment he arrives.

- Yes, sir, but-- - I know.

When he understands how important this is

he's gonna be alright.

I'll bring him in, sir.

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

- Hi, Mr. Macahan. - Hi, Jeff.

You sure have been sweating your rival, sir.

- Is that so? - Yeah.

Rope him down good, Jeff. He's earned it.

Yes, sir. Come on, boy.

- Howdy, Zeb? - Mac.

- Where the heck you've been? - Just doing what they told me.

That there's a Romanov flag flying there, isn't it?

Sure is. How'd you know that?

I spent me some time with the Ruskies

out in Fort Ross. What's going on?

The major will explain it to you.

Wait a minute, you've gotta set me straight here.

When I was ridin' in, there was a hell of a good-looking woman

up there on the ramp, parts the glass of champagne in her hand.

What you boys renting up here, bawdy house or something?

Come on, I'll show you.

See for yourself.

[indistinct chattering]

[woman laughing]

[indistinct chattering]

[cork pops]

[ukulele music]

[woman laughing]

[indistinct chattering]

I'm not sure I believe that, Mac.

I don't blame you, Zeb. I can't get used to it either.

Well, look what we have here.

[Valerie] 'I bet he's the one we've been waiting for.'

I suspect you're right.

Looks like he's been raised in a hollow tree.

I think he's magnificent.

Sorry to interrupt, old friend but the major awaits, remember?

Dang shame.

Valerie, my dear, your basic instincts are beginning to show.

Why, Your Highness

I thought it was my baser basic instincts that attracted you.

Good Lord.

The more polish we try to put on you

the more your peasant background keeps asserting itself.

Well, Your Highness, it appears our wait maybe over at last.

[speaking in Russian]

Uh-uh, shame on you, uncle.

You made us all promise to speak nothing but English

in the presence of our hosts.

You are quite right, Sergei. You are, of course, quite right.

Forgive me, Captain Poynton.

Not at all, Your Highness.

Was that our guide?

I believe it is.

I'm told his name is Macahan.

He's somewhat of a legend out here.

The Indians have a great respect for him.

They call him "White Eagle."

White Eagle?

How droll.

- How very droll. - Hmm.

[door hinges creak]

Zeb, I can't tell you how glad I am to see you.

Major.

[Drake] 'I expected you last week.'

[Zeb] 'You didn't say nothin' about any hurry getting back.'

Well, when you left, there wasn't any hurry.

But you hadn't been gone 48 hours

and I got a message from Washington about them.

[Drake] 'Now, that is a royal hunting expedition.'

I expected three or four people.

Looks like they brought the whole Russian court with 'em.

Who are they?

Well, the big g*n is his imperial highness

'The Grand Duke Dmitri.'

'He's brother to the Tsar, no less.'

'The young one's his nephew Sergei.'

'He's the Count of Kiev.'

Now, they've been invited here by the American government.

And I have orders to supply them with the best available guide.

Guide?

That's you.

Now they've been here for five days

and they're beginning to get indignant.

I gather they're not accustomed waiting for anything.

Where am I supposed to guide them to?

[Drake clears throat]

Now, Zeb, I know you did not hire out to be a nursemaid

to a bunch of Russian blue bloods, but this is important.

You said something about a hunting expedition.

- What are we hunting? - Well, buffalo.

Now, that's what the state department sent 'em here for.

They don't have buffalo over in Russia.

We don't have a lot of 'em left out here

in case the state department don't know that.

That's exactly why we need you, Zeb.

Look the Civil w*r bled this country dry.

We can't afford trouble with the Russians or anybody else.

'There's been saber-rattling in the last couple of months.'

All you gotta do is take those Russians out

let them sh**t a few buffalo and that's it.

[sighs]

How many is a few?

Well, couple of hundred head.

He just wants a few trophies to take back--

Couple of hundred head?

Major, I don't know much about diplomatic relations

and I don't give a damn.

But I know that those Indians that we've driven off

of their hunting lands are starvin'.

'Because the rations that the government's supposed'

'to send 'em never seemed to show up.'

You're suggesting that we go out and k*ll the animals

that'll keep 'em alive this winter.

Zeb, for the love of heaven, will you be practical?

Practical? In the last five years, every White hunter

in this country and plenty of 'em that never shot a g*n before

have been out k*lling buffalo.

As a result of that, I ain't seen a buffalo

within 50 miles of this fort in the last year and a half.

There's buffalo in the Black Hills.

Let me tell you something, major, in case you forgot.

In April of this year, the United States government

signed a treaty with the Sioux Nation guaranteeing

that no White man had ever set foot in the Black Hills again.

That's their sacred land. It's the home of their Gods.

I am not suggesting we break the treaty

but those hills aren't fenced.

I'm sure you can find a herd wandering across the line.

Zeb, this hunt is the state department's

number one priority.

Hell with their priority.

Now, if them Russians wanna fight

we'll kick their backsides off.

I'm damned if I'm gonna go out and help 'em k*ll buffalo

for the fun of killin'.

Now, where you goin'?

I'm going up into the high country.

'Try and forget what's going on around here.'

So long, Mac.

Zeb.

I tried to warn you, Harry.

Macahan, I order you to come back here!

I'm not one of your soldier boys, Drake.

You can't order me.

You are still in the army payroll!

Not anymore. I just quit!

[Sergei] 'One moment.'

You're the guide we waited for for five days.

It's the matter of money, just name your price.

Not money?

Well, every man has a price.

Perhaps it is women?

Sonny, you best get your hand off my arm before you lose it.

[dramatic music]

It seems that we can put very little faith in your promise.

I'm dreadfully sorry, Your Highness.

Buffalo hunting requires very specialized skills and uh..

...Macahan is the best guide in these parts.

I'll get another man. I'll give you my word.

How long do we have to wait this time?

A few days.

A few days at the very most.

Perhaps in the meantime you can order some more champagne.

[scoffs]

Unless, of course, that too is beyond your capabilities.

[bottle clinks]

I'll see to it, Your Highness.

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

Uncle Zeb.

Luke!

What are you doing up this way?

Been looking for you.

Luke, you're a sight for sore eyes.

Been trying to get on to your track for close to three weeks.

I-I have been moving around quite a bit.

What's the matter? Luke, is something wrong?

Is there trouble?

It's more than just trouble, Uncle Zeb.

Some real bad news.

[sighs] Ma's dead.

What?

I can't..

I can't quite believe it even now. None of us can.

How did it happen?

[sighs]

[dramatic music]

'The barn caught fire one night.'

I-I wasn't at home.

Family tried to save the stock and..

Well, they did but..

Well, Jessie got trapped, and ma..

Luke, I'm powerful sorry.

It was such a freak accident, Uncle Zeb.

- I-- - You don't have to go on, boy.

Ma saved Jessie's life but..

...she died of burns that night.

Your ma was one of the finest women I ever knew.

What about the rest of the family?

Uh, nobody else was hurt.

But, Uncle Zeb, Josh and the girls..

I don't know, I..

They're so upset about it that I-I figured you oughta be told.

Maybe you could see 'em.

Make 'em feel better.

Maybe they wouldn't feel so alone.

I'll saddle up.

[instrumental music]

[buffaloes mooing]

[g*nsh*t]

[g*nshots]

[g*nshots]

[g*nsh*t]

Which one would you prefer, my dear?

That one, Your Highness.

k*ll that one, near the front. He's the biggest.

Ah!

Uncle..

...these people say, "Right behind the shoulder", you know?

Yes, Sergei, I am aware of that.

Thank you.

[g*nsh*t]

Congratulations, Your Highness, you'll make a fine trophy.

Well, could we not get a little closer, captain

and use lighter g*ns?

- Brinkerhoff. - Spoil the stand.

He would what..

- What? - You got a good bunch.

Stand easy, this distance.

Start moving in on 'em

they'd take to runnin'.

But why don't they run now?

They just wait.

[Valerie] 'It's stupid not to run away from danger.'

[g*nsh*t]

A clean k*ll.

[speaking in Russian]

[rumbling]

Oh! What a shame.

What a shame.

There will be others, of course, captain.

[Poynton] 'Of course, Your Highness.'

Mr. Brinkerhoff will locate another herd if you wish.

Excellent. Well, it's been a good day sh**ting.

Captain, would you see that the ladies

are taken back to the camp?

Certainly, Your Highness. This way, ladies, please.

[dramatic music]

[instrumental music]

[sighs]

I want you girls to listen up here.

'I know we've talked a lot about not needing anybody'

'to look after us'

But it's ma's sister comin' in.

And she's come a long way.

All the way from Chicago, and I want you girls to be polite.

'We don't know all the answers, you know?'

Besides, maybe she'll be like ma.

There ain't no one like ma except Uncle Zeb.

Luke should have had him back by now.

- It's been forever. - They'll be alright.

Probably just had trouble finding Uncle Zeb. That's all.

[male #1] 'Hut.'

Hyah.

Hut.

[Rocky] 'Whoa! Howdy, Amos?'

[Amos] 'Hey, Rocky, had some trouble, didn't ya?'

Bridge washed out again.

Had to come by way of Curry.

'Don't know why in tarnation'

'they can't fix that thing proper.'

Remember what I said now, she's kin.

We gotta act like we're glad to see her.

[instrumental music]

Well, I sincerely hope that you three go by the name of Macahan?

[music continues]

[instrumental music]

[Molly] 'Now, I see your mother's eyes in Laura.'

'It's a striking resemblance.'

'And of course, I see Grandmother Macahan'

'in all of you.'

'The hills are so green this time of the year.'

'Have you been having much rain?'

[Laura] 'Good spring rains, Aunt Molly.'

[Molly] 'Oh! And I'll bet that's just a happy omen for every farmer.'

'Spring rains.'

[Josh] 'It's been a bad way, no rains, Aunt Molly.'

[Molly] 'Oh, I can see that, Josh. Indeed I can.'

My, such a lovely young lady, Laura.

Tell me, is there any special young man calling at the house?

Guess not.

I mean, nobody special.

Well, I'm prepared to guess that that situation will change, hmm?

[music continues]

Plan on staying with us very long, Aunt Molly?

Well..

...my plans are, um..

...flexible, Josh.

But I do like this country.

Indeed I do.

"Gone to town to pick up Aunt Molly."

Your ma's sister?

- Did you send for her? - No.

We wrote to her saying ma had been k*lled.

We figured she had the right to know.

But none of us dreamed of this.

Did you ever meet her?

Well, a long time ago about when your ma was gettin' ready

to marry Tim, but she wasn't more than 15-16 year old then.

Right pretty little thing, as I recall.

Why would she wanna come all the way out here from Chicago?

Looks like we're about to find out.

It's Luke and Uncle Zeb!

Uncle Zeb! Uncle Zeb!

Jessie, be careful.

Ha!

[sobbing] Uncle Zeb! Uncle Zeb!

Whoa. Whoa.

- Oh, Uncle Zeb! - Honey.

Alright.

[Laura and Jessie sobbing]

I kinda know how you girls feel.

We're all gonna miss your mother.

Now, look, grieving ain't gonna help any.

Dry up them tears. That's how your ma'd want it.

[Josh] Uncle Zeb.

Josh.

Girls.

- Hello, Molly. - Hello, Zebulon.

[Jessie] 'Oh, Luke, it's been so awful without ma.'

I know, Jessie.

But I think we're all gonna get along just fine.

'Hey, she taught us how, didn't she?'

Well, Molly, it's...it's sure nice of you to

come all this way to be with us.

It was a mistake, Zeb.

I should never have come.

[dramatic music]

- Good mornin'. - Morning, sir.

- The stage passed through yet? - Yeah.

Did you see who was on it by chance?

Yeah.

I'm looking for a married couple.

Wasn't on it.

Just a couple of drummers and a woman from Chicago.

- No Mormons? - Mormons?

Mister, ain't no Mormon

gonna come through this town on no stage.

Is that so?

We don't like Mormons here, mister.

Last one of them come through here got run out on a rail.

Hunting down Mormons, are you?

If somebody was riding a wagon westward through these parts..

'...and wanted to bypass the town..'

...what part of the country would he be passing through?

Most likely he'd be passing through homestead sections.

Fact is there's a wagon road going through those parts.

Be the one passing directly by the Macahan homestead.

Macahan homestead?

But they ain't Mormons, you know?

The Macahans ain't Mormons, mister.

They're good people.

[intense music]

[Molly] 'You can't pretend my arrival'

'was anything short of a disaster, Zeb.'

[Zeb] 'Been shock to 'em, Molly.'

Kate dyin'. They've never seen you before.

I reckon it'll just take 'em a little time.

Get used to the idea of you being here.

Oh, the blame is mine.

I had no right expecting to be treated

as a member of the family.

[chuckles] Why, you are a member of this family.

You're just gonna have to give them a chance

to get to know you.

You know, when I heard of Kate's death

all I thought of was children being left alone

and needing help.

But they're not children at all. They're all grown up.

Well, they're not that grown up, Molly.

They need help more than they think they do.

Oh, Zeb, it's really me who needs the help

if I'm honest with myself.

I don't get your meanin', Molly.

Well, you know, it's been almost six years since my husband died.

Lately, I felt frightened.

- Frightened of what? - Oh.

Of loneliness.

Of not having any roots.

Of nobody needing me.

I guess that's why I didn't ask if I was wanted or needed.

I was afraid the answer might be no.

So I just came.

Molly, let me tell you somethin'.

I think there are roots for you right here.

You know, I got a suggestion or two

that I think might just help to thaw things out a bit.

[instrumental music]

It's delicious.

Hmm-hmm.

Josh, I believe you asked me this afternoon

'how long I planned on staying with you.'

Well, Molly, gee, I...I reckon

we'd all like to have you stay as long as you can.

Ain't that right, kids?

Well, you bet.

Well, truth is I had planned to be back

by the first of the month, which would mean I'd be leaving

in about, oh, seven or eight days.

But, Aunt Molly, all the way out here.

I mean, only staying a week with us?

We thought you'd be with us at least two weeks.

In two weeks our cow will be calving.

'You ever seen a cow give birth, Aunt Molly?'

No, dear, I haven't.

What's the big deal about a calf being born?

It's the first one born on this farm, smarty.

Aunt Molly, tell us about Chicago.

Yeah, I hear that place is full of bawdy houses.

[choking]

Bawdy houses, Josh?

Uh, that one just kind of slipped out I guess.

[chuckles]

[all laughing]

[knock on door]

Come in.

Aunt Molly..

Yes?

Here's just the place for them.

Josh, Jessie and I went and picked them after supper.

After supper you picked wild flowers in the dark?

Lots of moonlight, Aunt Molly.

Aunt Molly..

...we were very rude.

Oh, no. You are young.

I fully understand.

A stranger coming into the Macahan house.

But, Aunt Molly, I have to say this..

Well, maybe it was all so sudden, I mean, ma dying

and then you sayin' you were comin' out from Chicago and..

- Well, we were just.. - Upset.

Over the thought of someone taking the place of your mother.

Yes.

Well, I'm delighted to find that the Macahan children

are total human beings.

We're trying to say..

...we don't want you leaving right away.

Please.

We'd like you to stay long enough

so that we can get to know each other.

Thank you, Jessie.

Well, how about a man to man bargain?

I mean, woman to man.

Uh, woman to woman.

[chuckles]

[chuckles]

'Right.'

'I guess what I'm trying to say is that..'

...I'd like a chance to get to know all of you

and for you to get to know me better.

And then at some future time, we can have another talk.

Goodnight, Aunt Molly.

Goodnight, Jessie.

It's so good to have you here, Aunt Molly.

Thank you, dear Goodnight.

Goodnight, Aunt Molly.

I was just thinking you're..

...you're very pretty.

Thank you.

[buffaloes grunting]

[g*nsh*t]

[g*nsh*t]

[g*nshots continue]

- You look worried, sir. - 'No, I'm just a little sick.'

Huntin' is one thing, but this kind of slaughter

turns my stomach.

They're royal guests, and if they wanna k*ll

every buffalo in the territory, all we can do is keep smilin'.

Maybe we can discourage the Grand Duke

from takin' home the whole country as souvenirs.

It's up to you, captain.

Up to me, I would have me no buffalo sh**t.

No, sir. I'd have me a Sioux sh**t.

I'd give them Russkies some Indian heads

'to take back to hang as trophies in their rooms.'

Well, that's where we disagree too, Brinkerhoff.

There's an old sayin'. "Live and let live."

And we better sure start followin' that adv..

[w*r cries]

[dramatic music]

Well, captain, looks like we might have

some negotiatin' to do.

Negotiate? What for? We're not on their land.

No, but we done k*lled a heap of their buffalo.

'They don't look none too friendly.'

Listen, you be tactful.

And I do mean, Brinkerhoff, tactful.

[w*r cries continue]

Uncle, look, Indians.

Coachman, stop.

The American savages.

'Aren't they superb?'

Be careful, Sergei. They are armed.

[Sergei] 'Oh, I'm sure they're harmless, uncle.'

Perhaps we can persuade them to entertain us for a little fee.

[speaking in Russian]

Drive on.

[dramatic music]

[speaking in Sioux]

Says these here buffaloes belongs to Satangkai.

Whose buffaloes?

Satangkai is the w*r chief of the Sioux Nation.

They're claimin' the buffalo belong to them.

[captain] 'Tell them it's a mistake.'

We didn't know they considered the buffalo their property.

[speaking in Sioux]

[Sergei] 'Mistake? What mistake?'

'sh**ting wild animals on the open land.'

Ridiculous.

[whispers] Sergei.

[speaking in Sioux]

He wants to know what we're doing here on their treaty land?

Their land? Of course, we're 20 miles..

We are 20 miles?

I ain't no damn surveyor, major.

[speaking in Sioux]

Uh, Brinkerhoff, ask what compensation they'd like.

Yes, captain, pay them whatever compensation

they require and let us go.

Your Highness, under duress, we must submit to demands?

'The House of Romanov has never negotiated terms under threat.'

- Never. - 'Sergei, control yourself.'

Can you imagine how ridiculous it'd look

to the rest of the world if two nobles of the House of Romanov

were harmed by aborigines.

Please, Your Highness, I'm sure there's no real great danger

and the US Army will pay the cost of compensation.

It's just a minor matter. Well, not quite minor, but..

This bed of lies dictates to us.

Tell him he trifles with the powers of the Czar.

[speaking in Sioux]

Well, bucko here wants the whole party

to ride in and talk with Satangkai.

The royal huntin' party, 20 or 30 miles into the Black Hills?

That's what he wants.

Captain, I wish to leave this place immediately.

Uh, yes, Your Highness, uh..

Brinkerhoff, might we kinda ease back here.

Valerie..

...come away.

[g*n c*ck]

Valerie.

[speaking in Sioux]

[w*r cries]

[screaming]

How dare they!

[w*r cries continue]

[dramatic music]

[speaking in Russian]

[g*nshots]

Captain.

Macahan.

Find Z-Zeb Macahan.

He's gotta get the Russians back.

'If the count is harmed..'

...we could have a w*r on our hands.

[grunting] Find Macahan.

'He can talk to Satangkai.'

Is he dead?

He's dead, alright.

He was talkin' to you. He said something?

Nothin'.

Nothin' I can understand.

Hey, Molly.

You know this Friday is Josh's birthday.

I figured this huntin' knife

might be a good gift comin' from you.

How can I ever thank you enough, Zeb?

I think he's comin' along.

Well..

...it's still too early to tell for sure.

But I think maybe.

So do I, Molly.

Thanks, Zeb.

[indistinct chattering]

[male #1] 'Injuns got hold of them royal Russians.'

Alright, folks, no need to shove. Just take your time.

And everybody will get a chance to read it.

[chattering continues]

Any word on them Russkies taken prisoner?

Last I heard, Zeb, was the secretary of w*r

ordering the US Second Cavalry to Fort Sully.

'You were up there recently, weren't you?'

A couple of weeks ago. The whole regiment ordered to Sully?

'Latest over the telegraph.'

'Brigadier General Stonecipher himself is leading 'em.'

If I know O'Brandy Jack, the Sioux Nation

will have about six minutes to return those captives

or have a w*r on their hands.

They say where this ruckus took place?

Yeah, they were saying approaches to the Black Hills.

Meanin' nobody's admittin' bein' on tribal lands.

Figures.

Alright, folks. Make way, make way.

Make way.

[dramatic music]

I don't understand any of this, you mean you're going off

to some Indian w*r when you've hardly been here a week?

Molly, I don't have time to explain.

Well, what kind of a man are you, Zebulon Macahan?

These children need you. They just lost their mother.

You saw the way Jessie went to pieces

'the moment she laid eyes on you.'

Jessie will be alright and so will Laura.

Faith Katherine was right about you.

You've no sense of responsibility at all.

Molly, you sure are Kate's sister, alright.

'Now, let me try and explain somethin' to ya.'

Those Sioux are friends of mine.

In a way, I feel responsible for the fix they are in right now.

I gotta go there, see if there's anything I can do to help.

Well, your help is needed right here.

I can't for the life of me see what one man

would do in stopping an Indian w*r.

I'm not saying there is anything one man can do, but I gotta try.

- Zebulon-- - Molly.

You take care of those kids.

[intense music]

Say goodbye to Luke for me.

[instrumental music]

What are your plans for today, Luke?

I figured I'd do some huntin'.

Get a good supply of meat on hand.

I'll probably be out overnight.

Oh, then you should have something to eat.

Aunt Molly.

Did Uncle Zeb ever say anything to you about me bein' wanted?

Wanted, Luke? You mean by the law?

Yeah.

I don't stay around home too long.

At any one time, I mean.

What law did you break?

Well, in my way, I think that I didn't break any.

But I shot a sheriff who was dead set on lynchin' me

for stealin' a horse I, I didn't steal.

You k*lled a lawman?

No, no, I only wounded him in the arm, but..

...I guess he is never gonna forget it.

You see, it's been more than five years now and..

...and wanted posters on me keep showin' up

all over the territory.

Oh, Luke.

I guess what I wanted to say, Aunt Molly, is..

...I'm kinda glad you're around.

'You see, my brother and sisters..'

...uh, they all think they don't need anybody

keepin' an eye out on them, but..

[laughs] ...well, they sure do.

And it's not just a matter of them needin' anybody either.

I mean..

Well, I think you're a real nice lady and..

...I'm sure glad you came to stay with us.

Why, thank you, Luke.

I take real pleasure in being here.

I'll see you in the mornin', Aunt Molly.

[instrumental music]

- Howdy, Zeb. - Cool my mount down, will ya?

And saddle another horse for me?

- Have 'em ready in ten minutes? - Yes, sir, Mr. Macahan.

Macahan, what the hell are you doin' here?

I come here to find out what's going on.

I don't see that's any of your business now.

The hell it's not my business, major.

I was one of the men that persuaded Satangkai

to sign that treaty guaranteein' that the white man

would never go into the Black Hills.

Well, whatever you did or didn't do, it's out of your hands now.

One moment, major.

Captain Poynton told us this man was a friend of the Sioux.

He may be able to help us.

My nephew and a young woman have been abducted by the Indians.

I understood that. I didn't know the reason why.

Well, the reasons, I'm told, have to do with the fact

that the Duke's party was killin' buffalo.

Inside the reservation?

That hasn't been confirmed.

Well, I'll confirm it for ya right now

'if this bucket of scum was leadin' them.'

You wanna pull that, Brinkerhoff, do ya?

Go ahead. I'd love to carve you up.

Don't you know he's an Indian hater?

He's always been sayin', "The way to get rid of the Sioux

is to k*ll all the buffalo and starve 'em?"

Major, I don't have to stand here and take this.

You've come to insult Brinkerhoff

or you got some purpose to your visit?

Whether I got a purpose to my visit is up to him.

Did you wanna see the Sioux punished for what they've done

or you wanna get your nephew and the girl back?

I want Sergei back.

I told these gentlemen that they've got to negotiate

but they, they said they're waiting.

They're waiting for some general and his army.

Well, the Sioux won't negotiate with no army.

But they will with you.

Well, they might. I can't guarantee it.

Zeb, get him down here.

We'll talk to him, man to man.

He won't come in here, major.

Besides, it wouldn't do any good anyway.

- He don't speak any English. - Very well then.

If this chief won't come to us, then we must go to him.

Major, I want you to call off the troops immediately.

Your Highness, I don't have the authority to call off an attack.

'I mean, I cannot speak for the general.'

Well, sir, I can speak for the Czar and all the Russian people.

If Sergei Alexandrovich, Count of Kiev

and noble of the Imperial House of Romanov

'an honored guest of your government'

'and under its protection'

if he is harmed because of a stupid..

...precipitated military attack upon his captors

then I can assure you that there will be very serious

international complications between my country and yours.

You better listen to him, Drake.

If you don't feel Stonecipher is a man

that'd listen to common sense

you better get an authorization from Washington right now.

I'm headin' for Satangkai.

- Mac. - Sir.

I want you to compose a dispatch to the secretary of w*r.

'Now you tell 'em that Macahan is negotiating with the Sioux'

for the release of the prisoners and we would like to

delay Stonecipher's attack till we hear from Macahan.

Yes, sir. It'll be in Washington by midnight, sir.

[sighs] Well, Your Highness, now, is-is there anything I can do for you?

Nothing, thank you.

I can only pray that your w*r department has more concern

for its foreign visitors than this garrison here

has displayed up to now.

Good day to you, major.

Snotty old egg sucker, ain't he?

Brinkerhoff, would you get the hell out of here?

It's thanks to you we're in this mess.

No, you're not gonna lay this on me, major.

It was made plenty clear to me to find them Russians buffalo

or else..

And there weren't no bloody buffalo

except on that Sioux reservation.

Just get out, will ya?

[sighs]

[dramatic music]

[horse snorting]

Luke.

I heard you're shootin'. I've been lookin' all over for ya.

- What's the matter? - Ah!

Saw someone watchin' the house this morning.

Like he was waitin'.

Did you get a good look at him?

Mean lookin'. Figured you ought to be warned.

Instead of just ridin' into the house without knowin'.

Bounty hunter more than likely.

Just a matter of time before one showed up I guess.

Somethin' I want you to take home for me.

A goin' away present.

Wait a minute, Luke.

Maybe I can ask questions in town.

'Find out if any stranger's been askin' about ya.'

Not too smart to be hangin' around so long anyway.

Luke, can I ride with ya?

You don't ever ride with a man who's runnin' from the law.

I told you that, didn't I?

You ever get tired of runnin', Luke?

Yeah, I get tired.

But it don't look like I got much choice, does it?

Not even comin' home to say goodbye, are ya?

I can't go through it again, Josh.

You do it for me, huh?

Tell Laura and Jessie I love 'em, and..

...make sure you keep makin' Aunt Molly at home.

You hear?

Sure.

Remember somethin'.

You're the man of the house now.

I'm countin' on you to look after 'em.

I will, Luke.

Okay.

Take care.

[instrumental music]

Here.

- Shewelah. - It's you, White Eagle.

Well..

The seed of Satangkai. You're strong.

He grows like the snow flower. Overnight.

Yes, one day he will be a mighty warrior like his father.

You'll find him by the river.

- He knew I was coming? - 'He knew.'

In peace.

In peace.

[music continues]

My heart soars.

My spirit flies.

It has been five months since the treaty.

How is it with the Sioux?

Better than w*r.

Worse than peace.

They do not keep the law, your people.

No, our chiefs change often.

Those that follow

do not always honor the words of those that went before.

It is hard to understand.

Your people are many like the leaves of the forest.

Can you not find one wise enough to lead until his vision dims?

A man whose words will be kept by all.

To explain is like trying to catch the running dog.

My chiefs are angry.

It is less than five moons

'that white man has said this land shall be'

for the Sioux alone until the stream no longer runs.

Yet, already he has come into that which was to be ours..

...to k*ll our buffalo for the love of k*lling.

'And when my warrior spoke to him that he must come to answer'

he has refused

and spat upon the sacred buffalo.

'Because of this, men died.'

In the councils, many spoke

for the death of the white man and his woman.

I understand.

But it is not wise.

When the heart is angry

the mouth often speaks with the tongue of a child.

Then, you do not believe they should be k*lled.

I believe they should be k*lled.

But I also believe it is not wise.

Already many soldiers are coming.

My scouts have seen them.

More soldiers than they have ever looked on.

The one you have taken, the one called Sergei?

Well, he is a great chief from another land

across the big water.

If you k*ll him..

...my people may have to go to w*r with his people.

If you let him live..

...the soldiers may put away their g*ns.

And if I do not, they will k*ll us.

I'm afraid it may be.

No one speaks for peace.

They say it is better for the Sioux to die in battle

than to live in shame.

If like the water reed, we bend to this wind

we must bend to all winds forever..

...or be cut down.

You have something precious to them.

Is there anyway to make them bend?

Perhaps.

Always before the white man has taken what he wants

and if we resisted

he brought the soldiers as he brings them now.

But as you say, we have something he wants.

Perhaps this time, we may win a kind of victory.

I listen.

Then, hear.

We shall release this great one from across the big water

and the woman, but we will not return them

to men with w*r parties at their back.

They will meet us on our ground, at Painted Meadows

with no more men than can stand in one teepee.

There will be no fire sticks.

And they will make a paper with words to say

that it was the white man who broke the treaty.

Who would not stand to what they had done.

I hear.

Then hear more.

The paper is not all.

For what they have done

they must make big tribute to the Sioux.

Tribute in the green paper

that the white man loves even more than gold.

How much tribute?

You must tell us.

How much will pain them?

So much that every white man will know they would not make

this much tribute unless they were wrong.

That is good.

That is very good.

Tribute that men will speak of for many snows.

Ten thousand of the green papers.

Ten thousand?

More than all the Sioux

the Cheyenne and the Arapaho put together.

They will have this much of the green paper?

They will have it.

It is good.

Ten thousand green papers shall be the tribute.

It is good.

[instrumental music]

- Morning. - Ssh!

Are they bitin'?

Can I help ya?

Yeah, seems I got myself lost.

Is there a town around here?

There, Jimson's Break.

Yonder there, just over the top of the ridge.

Thanks.

Alright, take care of yourself, boy.

- Oh, by the way-- - Ssh!

'They aren't hittin' here.'

I saw a couple of real good potholes upstream a ways.

Oh, thank you. I'm after Elmer.

Elmer?

Biggest rainbow trout you ever seen.

He's layin' up right in front of that rock there.

'Where them ripples are.'

'Just where he's always there.'

Mind ya, he keeps tryin' to make me believe

that he ain't there anymore, but he is.

'Just layin' there, takin' shade.'

He's smart. Smart. Awful smart.

He keeps gettin' smarter every year too.

Every year?

You mean, you've been fishing for that trout

for more than a year?

Nine years all total.

Whoo!

You can take a dozen pan sizes

out of this stream anytime you want.

But it's Elmer, makes your fishin' worthwhile.

Well, good luck to you.

You too, boy.

Ssh. Get off the water. Get over there.

It's him!

I got him.

'I got Elmer! I got him!'

I got Elmer! I got him!

Help! Help, boy! Help!

I can't hold much longer.

If he gets any slack, he's gone.

'Hurry up, boy. Hurry up.'

If I lose him again, I'll k*ll myself.

Come on, hurry up, boy. I got my foot under a rock.

Reel in, boy.

[indistinct chatter]

[panting]

[indistinct]

Push me back this way so I can get on the rock.

Don't push me down.

The stream's taking me out there.

- Hey, you got him. - Yeah.

Get that net, huh?

- Here he comes. - Alright.

You got him. Ha ha.

'Come on.'

[laughing]

Come on.

Come on.

- There we go. - Whoo!

Hey!

Didn't I tell you he was a big one, huh?

I caught you again, Elmer. I caught you again.

Again? You mean you caught him before?

Twice.

Caught him first time nine years ago.

You know that, Elmer, huh?

Yeah, then I caught ya three years after that.

I've been workin' on you now for..

...let me see, five years three months.

And I'm gonna get you again, Elmer.

[laughing] I'm gonna get you again.

[kisses] Goodbye, boy.

Yeah, thought you was too smart for me, didn't ya, huh, Elmer?

[laughing]

Oh, thank you, boy.

I'd have never caught it without ya.

Alright, got yourself all wet, didn't ya? Huh?

- It's alright. - You come on home with me.

Get yourself dried off.

No, no, I-I better be movin' along.

Hey, don't worry about me. Clothes will dry in the sun.

But thanks anyway. Here you go.

[laughing]

I'm gonna get you again, Elmer. I'll get you again.

[laughs]

What's all the excitement about?

Nothing much. Just a horse race.

Oh, that so?

What are they racing for, money or fun?

For a girl.

A girl?

Yeah, dumb, ain't it?

By the way, your horse practically threw

a left front shoe on you.

Oh. You got a good eye, son.

There a smith in town?

Yeah, down the street at the stables.

Except smith ain't likely to get to you until after the race.

Hey, what do you mean they're racing for a girl?

It's for my sister.

If Tobe Harker wins, he takes her to the dance Saturday night.

Huh, must be some girl.

What happens if she don't wanna go with this...Tobe Harker?

Oh, she already agreed on it.

And us Gants never back down on our word.

- Oh? - Dumb, ain't it?

What? Keeping your word?

No, having a horse race over a stupid dance.

[chuckles]

Yeah, well listen. Take this.

Take my horse to the forge

and see if they can start when the race is over.

Sure, mister.

You tell 'em I'll be back in an hour or so to pick him up.

[crowd cheering]

Whoa! Whoa!

Hey, you okay, cowboy?

Are you the idiot that belong to that horse?

Uh, yes, ma'am. Uh, the boy--

What are you, crazy?

Everybody knew we're having a race right through here.

Hey, hey. Listen, listen. I just got here.

Well, the sooner you get out the better.

Huh, I'd have pa arrest you as a public menace.

Your pa?

The sheriff.

Too bad, Hillary.

Looks like I'm the winner.

You did not win either, Tobe Harker.

I had half a length on you.

Well, it ain't my fault you can't stay up on your horse.

Now, you made the bet. Are you gonna stand by it?

Well...well, let's run it again.

Nope, I'm satisfied.

I hope you ain't too bruised up to dance and...what all.

Well, I'm warning you, Tobe Harker

you can damn well forget your "what all".

If that's your horse, mister, I reckon I owe your for a favor.

Anytime.

Well, now I reckon I owe you too.

Ow!

Ain't she a sweet little thing?

[intense music]

Well, well.

If that isn't our reluctant guide.

You've come to affect our release, I hope.

Something like that. If the army agrees to the terms.

Terms?

Terms?

These savages will find out the meaning of terms

'when the Czar learns what's happened here.'

The nephew of the Grand Duke of the Imperial House of Romanov..

..caged and fettered like..

...like an animal.

Mister, I reckon somebody gotta set you straight.

Out here, who a man is

ain't worth a tick in a buffalo's rump.

It's what he is and what he stands for.

Now, if you were to tell these Indians

you'd give 'em your word you wouldn't escape

'they'd probably take that rope off you and make you a guest.'

[scoffs] A Romanov give his word to savages?

[scoffs]

Never.

Your Highness, please.

Be quiet, woman.

Well, then I reckon you're gonna have to get along

with what you've got.

If it's any consolation, ma'am

you'll probably be out of here in 48 hours.

Forty eight hours?

I think there's a good chance of it.

If your friend there don't talk himself

into a scalping in the meantime.

That man will pay for his arrogance.

And that's a promise I swear to over my father's grave.

If there is any fault here..

..it is certainly not that man's.

He was right from the very beginning.

I meant no rudeness, Your Highness. I mean--

I know what you meant and do mean, my dear.

It will also be discussed at a future time.

Now, right here will do just fine..

Yeah, this is the place.

[laughing]

Whiskey, barkeep, and keep it comin'.

Yes, sir.

And get us some clean glasses.

Come on, speedy, we don't have all day.

You there.

What day is it?

It's Tuesday.

Tuesday? Ha ha.

Whatever happened to Sunday and Monday?

[laughing]

Something wrong with you?

[laughs nervously]

Booster McDonald's the name, boy.

Me and Hub, and Nugget over there

we've been working up at that gold mine for sl*ve wages.

But we happened to quit 'em last Friday. Quit 'em cold.

So we're prime for a long drunk

and some white women.

[laughing]

Maybe you'd like to join us.

Sounds fun, but I'm leavin' town.

Somethin' about me you don't like to look at, boy?

No. You look fine to me.

Hear that, Hub. Boy says I look just fine.

Why, boy, you must be blind.

Blind as a bat.

I'm so ugly, I sour milk.

I make women scream and dogs howl, I'm so ugly.

I take pride in my ugly, boy.

Now, how do I look to you?

Pretty ugly.

[laughing]

Now, that's more like it.

You there, speedy, put another drink when he's drinking.

How about it, Charlie?

He won't have time for drinking.

You're going with me, Macahan.

What's the problem, sheriff?

I mean, me and the boy here just took a likin' to each other.

I don't know, but if you're lookin'

for a piece of this trouble

you can have all you want.

Well, I didn't take that much of a liking to him.

- Come on, Macahan. - Look, sheriff.

We'll talk later. Now, come on.

[sheriff] I wish it were like this.

To keep you on your toes, I reckon.

Sit down, boy.

I don't understand.

I've been a lawman for 30 years.

Learned a lot about men in that time.

About the good ones and the bad ones.

You don't seem like a bad one.

'But that paper they got out on ya says you done some shootin'.'

'About six years ago.'

My, you could hardly have been 18.

That's a little young to start shootin' up lawmen, ain't it?

[scoffs]

I didn't have much choice.

You see, they were Southern sympathizers.

I was a Yankee soldier.

It was either sh**t or get lynched.

Hmm.

I suppose you'd tell me your side of it.

[sighs] It's a long story.

Well...I don't think

either of us is goin' anywhere until I've heard it.

Go ahead.

[Luke] 'I woke up in a barn the next morning with the sheriff'

'and three Southern gentlemen standing over me.'

'Turned out the dead man's horse I was riding was stolen.'

So they decided a trial wasn't necessary.

I got my hands on the sheriff's g*n and shot him in the arm.

I just kept movin'.

'I've been runnin' ever since.'

If you send me back to Missouri, they're gonna hang me.

Yeah, I reckon they will.

I gotta lock you up, boy.

I got some friends back in Missouri

who can maybe check out that story of yours.

If you're tellin' the truth, I wish you no harm.

You'll be free to go.

Or you can stay around here, for that matter.

Pa, I need to know what you're gonna be..

Hello, there, sugar.

You don't have to tell him to lock me up.

He took it on himself.

How do you know each other?

We don't really know each other.

It seems your daughter here

blames me for losing a horse race.

She almost broke my shin.

Wish I had.

I heard about that race, young lady.

I've told you I won't stand for that kind of commotion.

- Think lady like. - Pa.

You're gonna get yourself hurt one of these days.

It's just me and Tobe Harker.

Tobe H...and you lost?

If it wasn't for him and his damn..

Now, sheriff, I was only..

Hold it now, hold it.

Enough of that kind of language.

What's he in here for, anyway?

That's none of your concern.

Now, you get along now, sugar.

And warm up some of that beef pie.

I'll get along directly.

Alright, pa.

Oh, and, uh, fix up a plate, uh..

..for the young man here.

And that apple cobbler that you got hid away in the pantry.

'And what's wrong with the cafe food?'

Since when did we start feedin'

every saddle bum you lock up in here?

Now, this one here.

He helped me catch Elmer today.

And that, by God, is worth a good supper.

No matter what he might have done.

'Because of that silly little fish'

I gotta cook supper for a criminal?

No, it's alright, it's alright, sheriff.

Considering her temper, I don't know

if I'm willing to risk her cooking.

Huh!

Might be poisonous.

Well, let me tell you Mr. Whoever You Are

or wherever you came from

that my cookin' has won ribbons in this dang county--

That's enough, Hillary, that's enough.

Now, I told you to go, now you go.

I hope you're not looking forward to grandkids, sheriff.

She's got her mother's blood in her, alright.

She can be a hellcat.

She's choosy.

None of the boys in this town can suit her.

And I'll tell you another thing about that little girl.

If she once sets her sights on some young fellow

he better be ready to marry her.

Or head for high timber.

[laughing]

[sighs]

Yeah, high timber would look pretty good about now.

[door opening]

Hi there.

Don't you say one word to me.

Suit yourself.

I just think we oughta say somethin' to one another.

I wanna make one thing clear

that servin' supper to a gunfighter is not the way

I usually enjoy my evenings.

And who said I was gunfighter?

Pa said you gunned down a sheriff.

I didn't g*n down anybody. It wasn't like that at all.

That's what they all say.

Pa said he might even send you to Missouri.

And if they do, they'll probably just string you up.

It sure is pleasant talkin' to you.

Why, you don't even much look like a gunfighter to me.

And what's that supposed to mean?

Oh, you know, gunfighters' supposed to look

all squinty eyed and dangerous.

You look sort of...harmless.

Harmless?

- Well, is it poisonous? - What?

Your supper, you said before

you thought my cookin' might k*ll you.

Oh, it's very good.

I apologize for what I said.

Now, you apologize for kickin' me.

That'll be the day.

Tell me somethin'.

Do you ever think about behavin' like a girl?

Don't you think I can behave like a girl when I want to?

I didn't say you couldn't.

I just don't think you gave it much of a try.

Well, that's how much you know.

Except tonight, maybe.

Tonight?

What do you mean, "Tonight, maybe"?

Well, you put on that dress for me, didn't ya?

I hope pa does send you back to Missouri.

And when you get there

I hope they do put a rope around your neck.

Oh, Hillary.

You wouldn't have more of that cobbler back home, would you?

Huh.

Impressive.

Oh, very.

Yup.

That be the way to take care of Satangkai.

'Lose the whole regiment among the Sioux.'

'Anything that walks or talks'

or smells Injun

you don't let it get away breathin'.

h*!

Welcome, general. You made good time.

We didn't expect you until tomorrow.

Yes, I got your message, major.

I don't believe in coddling the troops, you know.

When they ride with me, they ride.

This is Captain MacAllister, my adjutant.

- MacAllister. - General, how are you, sir?

Well, Drake, I hope you're a brandy drinker.

Captain stays one case ahead of you, sir.

Mm-hmm.

Is that the jackass who decided he'd to have 200 buffalo heads?

Yes, sir, it is.

He also speaks English very well, sir.

Oh, he does?

It wouldn't be that bad if he could hear me.

Might save a lot of wasted motion.

'He gets the impression right now.'

There are only two of us in authority

me and God almighty.

Your Highness.

However, if you ever make general

you'd find that you spent half your time smiling at idiots.

h*!

h*!

Mr. Macahan.

My nephew, Sergei.

He's doing about as well as can be expected and the lady.

It might be a good idea if you come with me

when I see the general.

Might help to keep his temper down when he hears these terms.

Yes, thank you.

You, what?

I said $10,000 as damages against the Sioux

and Satangkai accepted.

Well why not 20,000 or 30?

'Cause I knew you wouldn't have trouble coming up with the 10.

How'd you figure that?

It wasn't hard. I just figured out how much wages

he'd have bring along for his men plus a bonus.

Come up with a round number.

How close was I, general?

Too damn close, Macahan.

Just who gave you the right to name

and approve terms on my behalf?

I didn't approve nothin', general.

You're gonna have to do that. I'm just a messenger boy.

I'll tell you one thing.

I don't think His Highness here is gonna take too kindly to..

..you pow-wowing with the Indians over the money

while his nephew sits up there without Champagne and caviar.

Precisely.

General..

...do you consider that this trifling sum of money

is too great to pay for the life of Count Sergei?

And that helpless child with him?

Oh, certainly not, Your Highness.

I'm a trifle disturbed at not having been consulted, is all.

What we have here, is a matter of face with the Indians.

'Not that I put undue value on facades myself.'

But our children of the plains do have to be humored.

"Children of the plains." Hell.

Satangkai, Sitting Bull, Yellow Hand...children? Ha.

You got a surprise coming, general.

Those men are warriors.

You have to mount a campaign against them

you're gonna find out

they command the finest cavalry in the world.

And this outfit can lick anything that moves.

Gentlemen, this is absolutely fascinating but..

...can we please get back to my nephew.

Who at this moment is at the mercy

of these barbarians of yours.

Alright.

I'll recommend to Washington

that we concede a payment of 10,000.

Major, will you get that on the telegraph

immediately after the meeting.

Yes, sir.

'With all due credit to Mr. Macahan here'

with ringing that astonishing concession from the Sioux.

Now, where is this release to take place?

- Painted Meadows. - Where's Painted Meadows?

It's on the edge of the tree territory.

Just north of Bear Creek, general.

Hmm.

And what are the conditions?

To be no more men in your party

than can stand upright in a tepee.

What the hell kind of limit is that?

That's very precise, general.

It means no more than 12 men.

Satangkai is gonna be there with 10 of his braves.

Now, there is to be no firearms on either side.

I agree.

If there's been an agreement then why doesn't

the chief of the savages bring them here, to the fort?

Ha.

Well, Your Highness..

...seems like our children of the plains

don't put too much faith in the words of the US army.

Might be a case of too much humoring in the past.

Zeb, you're treading on very dangerous ground.

Only ground I wanna tread on is Painted Meadows, tomorrow.

No more than 12 men, general?

I said I agree. You want it in writing?

No, but now that you mentioned it

Satangkai does want something in writing.

He wants a written statement saying that it was

the White men that broke the treaty.

I think he wants something written saying it was

the US government that started this whole mess

and not the Sioux.

You didn't agree to that.

I keep telling you, general. I ain't the agree-er, you are.

But if I was you, I'd agree to it. You haven't much choice.

Now listen to me, Macahan.

And hear me good.

As far as I'm concerned this whole thing started

because you...wouldn't act as a guide

for the royal hunting party.

If you'd been there

this wouldn't have kicked up much of a fuss.

'So from this point on'

if anything goes wrong and that mean anything

it's gonna be your hide, understand.

- You agree to the terms? - Yes. I agree.

And I always keep my word.

Now you bear that in mind, pertaining to your hide.

Agreement contingent on word from Washington, sir?

'As a formality that will be observed, major, thank you.'

We don't have the luxury of Zeb Macahan

and free reigning it.

Now you will be our guest, won't you?

While great minds ponder small matters back east?

I told Satangkai I'm gonna be right here

till the agreements reached.

Excellent.

Now, gentlemen.

Let us fervently hope that our red brothers don't get nervous

while we're all waiting.

Indians don't get nervous, general.

They've been taught the meaning of the word, wait.

[dramatic music]

[music continues]

Excuse me, ma'am.

But, uh..

...we used the last drop of our water yesterday noon.

'We were wondering if we could possibly impose upon you to..'

Of course.

The well's right over there.

And why don't you both come inside out of the heat.

Thank you kindly, ma'am, but if you don't mind

we'll just fill up and be on our way.

You're welcome to stay here until you're rested.

Tell her, Jeremiah.

We'd like nothing better than to accept, ma'am.

But I think you should know we've been refused water

at four homesteads in the past 50 miles.

- Refused water? - Yes, ma'am.

We're Mormons.

[instrumental music]

Is it like leprosy then?

Beg your pardon, ma'am?

I've always believed that a man's religious persuasion

is his own business.

You and your lady are welcome here.

- Jeremiah. - Of course, Maggie.

We thank you, ma'am. From the bottom of our hearts.

My name is Jeremiah Taylor.

This is my wife, Maggie.

Well, Jeremiah and Maggie Taylor.

You're at the Macahan homestead.

I'm Molly Culhane. Now come on inside both of you.

Mrs. Culhane, if you don't mind

I'll water the animals first.

Oh, of course.

Thank you.

[dramatic music]

Just ignore 'em.

We'll never get this done if you don't help some.

Besides, I'd rather be out any day

than in that house washing dishes or scrubbing floors.

Well, if you don't mind I prefer doing neither of 'em.

'I swear I don't think anything changes anymore.'

Not a difference between one day and the next.

Aunt Molly promised us a trip to Chicago someday.

Someday. Everything is someday.

Planning to take all day on this little chore? Girls?

'Listen, John Macahan.'

This is your chore we're doing.

And if you think that I..

Excuse me.

Mrs. Culhane said I might use the well.

Oh, sure. I'll give you a hand.

Thank you.

Ladies.

- Oh, my. - Laura.

Oh, no.

Aunt Molly.

Why didn't you tell me we had company? I could've died.

There he was and I was standing there

'smelling like a stable and looking like..'

Aunt Molly he's absolutely the handsomest man

I've ever seen in my life.

Laura!

This is Mrs. Taylor.

She and Mr. Taylor stopped to water their animals.

And they're going to stay for supper.

Excuse me.

She so want's to be a lady.

But it's very isolated here.

I've only been here a short time myself.

But I gather that there aren't very many visitors.

I understand.

I love the sound of young people around a home.

Oh!

Whiskey.

The name's Hale Burton.

'What's yours?'

Unless we have some business

my name shouldn't be important to you.

I heard you were asking around about some Mormons

who were supposed to be coming through here.

That so?

Mister..

Don't make sport of me.

Like most decent people, I hate Mormons

worse than I hate liars, cowards and thieves.

If I had my way, I'd hang every last one of 'em.

If I was a Mormon

that might make this meeting a little more interesting.

- I'm not. - I never figured you were.

But if you're after Mormons..

...I wanna know about it.

- I work alone. - Mister, I own this town.

Most of the land around it, for a day's ride

in every direction.

'If you knew where there were Mormons on my land'

'and you're keepin' it from me'

I wouldn't take kindly to that.

I'll remember that.

Now, if you don't mind I not only work alone..

'...I drink alone.'

[dramatic music]

Get the boys.

I want every foot of this land searched every box canyon

'every draw, every water hole, every ranch and homestead.'

Everything within 50 miles of this town.

Sure, boss.

[music continues]

[instrumental music]

- Afternoon, Orville. - Afternoon.

Are you just gonna lie there like a sloth

or you gonna get up and save the taxpayers some money?

- You heard back. - 'Yes.'

Federal Marshall in St Joseph, an old friend of mine.

He's heard of that rib sheriff that you shot

says he's a mean one.

You wouldn't have been the first Yankee he's strung up.

I wanna thank you, sheriff.

Oh, I got none comin'.

I just did my job.

What're you gonna do now, son?

Well, it's not that I..

...didn't enjoy your hospitality, but..

...well, I reckon I'll be movin' along.

'Or maybe you oughta stay here.'

- Stay? - Mm.

I don't understand.

Where can you go that you won't run a chance of getting caught?

And when happens again..

...could cost you your neck.

Well, I've had my say, I won't mention again.

Why don't you ...come home with me, son.

Have supper, huh?

I got a...guestroom and you can, uh

spend the night on a soft bed for a change, huh?

Hmm?

You see dark pictures.

To meet with the Whites.

How many chiefs have sat in White councils

and their women have wept for them?

I have given my word.

How little I have seen of him?

I must find time, to be with my son.

'He must hear my voice more.'

Even before he understands my words.

He knows your voice now.

There are nights here when he's awake

and he hears your voice from the council fire.

His eyes turn in that direction

and he smiles.

It is good..

...when the young listen to the old.

It is good they learn respect for the old voices.

'When the children of a Sioux are men'

how they live will be decided by the wisdom

they have taken from the old.

Our nation is..

...what we pass on to our children.

You must return to me.

I will always return to you.

[door closes]

Take your filthy hands off me.

Let go!

[speaking in Sioux]

[indistinct]

...you insane dogs!

'You're getting your ransom.'

I want my hands freed.

They still haven't had about enough outta you.

Are you gonna get on that horse and behave

or am I gonna have these braves tie you under it's belly?

- You threatenin' me? - I'm tellin' ya.

You wanna ride on top or underneath?

[Zeb] 'With the lady along, it's an overnight trip.'

Please, Your Highness, do as he says.

None of this will be forgotten...Macahan.

Mister, you can be sure that nobody's gonna forget

your visit to these parts.

[intense music]

- Maggie? - Hmm?

You sure it's alright for me to leave you alone like this?

I'm sure, Jeremiah.

I just got a little too much sun

I'll be alright in the morning.

I know you will.

I'll, uh, extend your apologies to them.

Thank you.

I don't know why we're making such a fuss over these people.

These people, as you call them, are our guests.

Aunt Molly, I told you.

Last time I was in town they were taking about the Mormons.

They wanna form their own state

and have nothing to do with the U.S. government.

In addition to that they're anarchists.

[knock on door]

I hope I'm not too early.

Not a bit, please come in.

Uh, Mrs. Taylor?

I'm sorry and so is she, she's not feeling well

asked to be excused.

Oh, well, is there anything we can do for her?

Thank you, all she needs is a good night's rest

it was a difficult trip for her.

Oh, well then, perhaps we should all sit down.

- Mr. Taylor. - Thank you.

Oh, that certainly smells good.

Well, the compliments belong to Laura

she cooked most of the dinner.

And beautiful too.

May I take the liberty of saying grace?

Yes, it is the custom of this house, Mr. Taylor.

We'd be delighted for you to give thanks.

Blessed be the name of our God let us sing to his praise.

'Yay, let us give thanks to his holy name'

for he doth work righteousness forever.

Amen.

Amen.

- Amen. - Amen.

Why, that it lovely, Mr. Taylor.

What part of the Bible is it from?

It's from the Book of Mormon.

Alma, chapter 26, verse eight.

- Is that your Bible Mr. Taylor? - 'It's holy scripture.'

Delivered into the hands of our prophet, Joseph Smith.

It's part of our heritage, along with the Bible.

'It might interest for you to know, in the book of Mormon'

America's history was foretold 2,500 years ago.

'There are references to the puritans'

the Indians and the..

[chuckles] Forgive me.

I'm so used to teaching.

Oh, no, no, I think it sounds fascinating.

[Laura] 'I'd love to read some of it sometime.'

Well, if it's alright with your aunt, Mrs. Culhane..

...I'll see that you get my copy.

[sighs]

Are there many of the Mormon faith

in these parts, Mr. Taylor?

No, ma'am.

Most abide people are in, West and Utah and Oregon.

[Jeremiah] 'I came back here to build a new settlement.'

A Mormon settlement?

The correct designation is

"the settlements of latter day saints."

[Jeremiah] 'We're members of the church of Jesus Christ'

'of latter day saints.'

'Others may see only buffalo grass and spring flats'

but...but I see..

...farms...and town.

A new tabernacle.

'May seem like an impossible dream to you but--'

Oh, no, it doesn't at all.

I think it...it sounds wonderful.

Thank you, Ms. Laura.

'You see, it's more than just a dream to us.'

'It's a necessity.'

'We've been driven out of so many places'

that we must create our own settlements in the wilderness

or be destroyed again as we were in Nauvoo.

Nauvoo?

Yes, it was a Mormon town in Illinois, near Carthage.

Where the Gentiles k*lled our leader, Joseph Smith.

Two weeks later they attacked Nauvoo and..

...m*rder*d many more of our people.

That's awful.

These things must be put behind us now.

But, perhaps now..

...you can understand how much we appreciate your hospitality.

Well, it's an honor to extend it, Mr. Taylor.

And you are welcome here as long as you care to stay.

Thank you, Mrs. Culhane.

[instrumental music]

Well, here's the book..

Thank you.

[laughs]

They sure are getting along fast, huh?

She isn't paying much attention

to him already having a wife either.

[knock on door]

Come in.

Oh, Josh, you're still up?

Yes.

I'm troubled about Laura, Aunt Molly.

Oh!

Since, we haven't got ma to turn to anymore..

...I think you ought to have a talk with her.

Oh and what would this talk be about?

Well..

[clears throat]

About, uh, things that, uh..

...girls should know when they aren't anymore.

Uh, girls, I mean.

[breathing deeply] Oh.

You can't blame a man for wanting to do more than look

when a woman tosses the goods in his face.

Josh!

'Oh, you know what I mean Aunt Molly.'

Laura was doin' nothin' but makin' doe eyes

at him all during dinner.

It's just plain sickening.

And Aunt Molly...he was lookin'.

Uh.

Well..

Yes, um.

Your sister is a very pretty girl, Josh.

If you were a stranger in the house

wouldn't you look too?

That isn't the point, Aunt Molly.

Oh.

Well, I do appreciate what it is you're trying to say, Josh

indeed, I do.

And I'll have a talk with Laura, since you seem to think I ought.

Good, cause if she carries on like that with every man

she runs into, she's gonna get herself into a lot of trouble.

[instrumental music]

Well, I have to congratulate you, Mr. Macahan.

How's that?

It's quite an accomplishment to start off in jail

and in no time at all end up at the sheriff's dinner table.

'And sleepin' in his house.'

Does this happen to you every time you get arrested?

Well, not every time.

What'd you mean "Not every time", and how many--

[sheriff] 'Give the boy a rest.'

He's my guest and you'll behave like the lady of the house.

Huh, I'd like to see the day she acts like a lady.

Why, you little scoundrel, get..

Don't pay her to whine, Luke, she was weaned on a pickle.

- You-- - Uh, easy there.

Easy.

Boys will be boys.

[Hillary sighs]

It's about time that child had a good stick to his backside, pa.

[sheriff] 'Oh, yeah, I reckon so.'

I gave up on the two of you a long ways back.

Well, I guess I'm sort of imposing here.

I'll give you a hand.

Why, at least you're good with somethin'.

Hey, put them dishes down, young man.

Ain't no guest in this house gonna be doing kitchen work.

I'm makin' my rounds.

Wanna walk along with me?

Sorry.

I tried.

Alright, Luke.

What do you think of our town, from outside the jail cell?

Doesn't seem like there's much to keep you busy.

Used to be a really sleepy little town

most of the time still is, but..

...come the end of the month and the miners get there pay.

Boy, oh, boy, they all come ridin' here

hell bent for election.

And they do their damage to drink the town dry.

That's when the sheriff business picks up.

Miners?

Yeah, you was holdin' a conversation with couple of them

when I arrested you.

Oh, yeah, I remember.

Uh, two years ago, Hank Jimson hit that gold vein up there

in head waters of Stone de Creek.

Not far from where I was fishing.

[instrumental music]

Ah, except for that, uh

gruff bunch that he's got workin' for him though.

Well, mostly farm people come from the border states

uprooted by the w*r.

Ah, you know enough about it I guess.

I don't have to tell you about that.

But this is a.. This is a good town.

It's gonna be somethin' one of these days.

Got plenty of fresh water.

A whole kingdom of land out here in the valley, just

just waitin' to be cleared.

And the stock of the Union Pacific

layin' a spur through here.

And when that happens, watch out.

Yeah, be a great place for a young fellow

to start a new life.

Get, uh, get himself a nice piece of land...build..

Well..

If he was to play his cards right

in no time he could be, uh..

Why, he could be an important man in the territory.

Uh, you aren't...suggestin' anybody in particular, are you?

Who, me?

[both laughing]

[violin music]

Heya, hey!

[laughing loudly]

That's for me, mister, I'm all used up.

[laughing]

Come to me, little man.

Oh, there you go.

'Well, the problem is, my friend'

'is that I, just got started.'

Booster McDonna is the name.

You don't stop sawin' on that thing till I tell you to.

I can see you're a music lover, mister.

But, I think the man's earned himself a rest.

[sheriff] 'Take it easy, Henry.'

[McDonna] 'Why, boy, I thought you was jailed.'

Sheriff, what do you mean, lettin' a dangerous criminal

walk the streets like the rest of us?

Ah, listen, I got better things to do with my time

than to nursemaid the likes of you.

You get out of line again..

...you're gonna wake up in a cell.

That so.

That so, but sheriff, uh..

I-I'll give you fair warnin'

I'm gettin' tired of lookin' down

the barrel of that scattergun.

Yeah, well, all you gotta remember

is it can go off any time.

[McDonna] 'I just wonderin' why you towed it everywhere, sheriff.'

Uh, that, uh, shotgun I mean.

Uh, I mean, what's wrong with that, hand g*n of yours?

Don't get the job done anymore?

My job gets done, mister.

[sheriff] 'I wouldn't'

The sheriff's a friend of mine, mister, if it comes to that.

Why, boy, I thought you, you and me were friends.

You're a fundamental disappointment to me, boy.

Get outta here, Luke.

[laughing loudly]

What're you tryin' to do? Get yourself k*lled?

- I was tryin' to help you. - Yeah, that was a mistake.

What are you talkin' about, they would've k*lled you.

You're sure about that, are you?

I'll tell you somethin' else, Luke.

'It's the stubbornness, that makes the lawman.'

To hold your ground, no matter what.

So the man you're facin' knows that he's gonna have to bury you

or be buried.

That's what keeps scum like that with an air

from makin' a play.

Well, he was goin' for it.

I could feel it.

Maybe.

Maybe not.

Come on.

[instrumental music]

Well, I guess Hillary's in bed?

Good idea, think I'll turn in myself.

How about you?

To tell you the truth, I'm kinda hungry.

[sheriff] 'Well, there's the kitchen right there, help yourself.'

'I'll see you in the mornin', boy'

'Goodnight, Orville.'

Pa.

No, it's just me.

[gasps]

Oh.

I'm sorry.

- 'I..' - 'What are you tryin' to do?'

I'm sorry, I didn't know you were takin' a bath.

Don't you ever knock?

I was just gonna get a bite to eat.

[Luke] 'Your pa said you were in bed.'

I'm sorry, I...I told you I'm sorry.

[Hillary] 'Would you keep your voice down?'

'I don't think you want pa to hear and have to explain'

'things and all.'

Explain what?

There is a name for men who go sneakin' about the way you do.

Sneaking?

[whispering] Sneaking?

Are you crazy, I wasn't sneakin' anyplace.

And how come you're takin' a bath so late?

Well, come to think of it

you knew I was gonna be coming back tonight.

What are you tryin' to say?

I'm sayin' that if you wanted to take a bath, you could've waited

till tomorrow, when you knew I wasn't gonna be here.

- There's a name for girls who-- - Is that so?

- Why, you.. - Ah!

Were you gonna strike me?

No.

But, it's about time, somebody did.

[instrumental music]

When all this is concluded do you think we'll be able

to say, hail and farewell to the royal pain in the butt there?

Lord, I hope so.

Those so called "ladies" in the royal quarter

driving my men to drink.

Look, but don't touch?

Yes, it means at the point.

"Look, but don't touch."

Well, I think some arrangement could be made, general.

You...been to the world for yourself, have you?

Huh, no, sir, I don't think my wife will understand it.

Ooh, well...that's something every army man should have

early on, an understanding woman.

Only way you can make it without climbing walls.

I see me young, in these hills.

My father taught me to hunt.

I see those times.

Soon you will teach your son how to hunt in these hills.

Maybe, I will teach the son to speak English

as I could not teach the father.

If there is honor in the White man today.

The son and the father will learn together.

[rooster crowing]

[woman crying]

Oh, my God, no.

Oh, sheriff.

Sheriff.

Sheriff.

Sheriff.

Sheriff. Sheriff

Sheriff.

Sheriff.

Oh, sheriff!

Sheriff.

Sheriff. Sheriff.

[Mina] 'Sheriff Gant, please.'

- 'Please, hurry.' - 'Alright, alright.'

[Mina] 'Sheriff Gant, hurry.'

I'm comin'.

- Oh, sheriff. - Mina.

Sit down here a minute.

Calm down, girl, calm down.

What's all the Commotion?

It's ruined, sheriff, I think they k*lled her.

- She bleedin' so bad. - Who, Mina, who, who k*lled?

It was them miners, the one you had that run in with

that great big one?

Alright, alright, now tell me. What happened?

It was Ruth, she didn't wanted nothin' to do with him

cause she thought he was, he was crazy.

And he was drunk too.

And then takes out this big knife.

- We took her on down to docs.. - Where are they?

Well, there down at the saloon.

And they got Angie.

Fix Mina somethin' to drink.

Settle her down.

Alright, Mina, alright.

Pa, what are you gonna do, pa?

Don't you worry about it now.

'I'll be back directly.'

- 'Oh, no, you can't' - Stay out of this, Hill?

Take care of her.

- Where are you goin'? - With you.

In a pig's eye. You're staying here, out of trouble.

- There's three of them. - I'm the law in this town.

It's my job if they are three or 33.

'And I'm tellin you, stay out of it.'

Oh, pa, please wait..

Who are they? Who could do such a terrible thing like that?

How long's it been since he used a g*n, any g*n?

I don't know.

[Hillary] 'It's been years since we had this kinda trouble.'

Please help him. Please.

[intense music]

Alright, McDonna.

Let that girl go.

And you and your friends come out with your hands up.

[laughing]

Why, sure, sheriff.

Anything to oblige.

[McDonna] 'I knew you'd come, looking for us.'

Throw your g*ns down.

[McDonna] 'Oh, come on, sheriff, come on.'

Can't we talk little-little thing over you and me, huh?

Throw 'em down.

[sheriff] 'Easy now.'

Orville, behind ya!

Ah!

[g*nsh*t]

Drop it.

Stay still, I'll get the doc.

Calm down, boy, calm down, I'm gonna be alright.

You sure ain't what you want to take it on..

I tell you, I'll be alright.

Now let's get this one to..

[dramatic music]

Are you serious?

Me, a lawman?

Now, don't go gettin' all excited, nothing permanent

just till I get back on my feet again.

I haven't even decided to stay on in town.

The truth is, I was about to push on.

Don't you hear, boy, I ain't askin' for no lifetime pledge.

'I just need some temporary help.'

'You'll get paid a fair wage.'

And it doesn't matter that my name and face

is on "wanted" posters all over the territory?

If you had any sense, you'd see that's a positive advantage

for a man in your situation.

Who's gonna be lookin' for a wanted man behind a badge?

'If every lawman who had paper on him at one time or another'

was chucked outta office it wouldn't be no law

worth speaking of west of the Mississippi.

Are you gonna do it, or am I gonna have to..

...look elsewhere.

[instrumental music]

Alright.

Alright, you get yourself a deputy.

Well..

'Now, maybe you, uh oughta go, uh'

'fetch that jug of whiskey in the kitchen, we'll..'

...pound down the bargain nice and firm like, huh?

Yes, sir.

Uh, Luke.

'Bout what you did for me out there this morning..

Thanks, son.

[music continues]

[General Stonecipher] 'It was a matter of two small pigs, Your Highness.'

'The farmer insisted that the army had taken the pigs'

'without permission.'

And the court decided he was right and awarded him damages.

'Course you would never permit that attitude in my country.

Even if you're in the wrong..

General, the royal family is never in the wrong.

Oh, yeah.

And let's put it this way.

What if the serf isn't wrong either?

Would you punish him for disagreeing with you?

Well, naturally.

It is one of the weaknesses of your country general

if I may say so, that there's an authority continually having

'to explain that actions to the commoners.'

If you permit a serf to consider himself your equal then

he will start to complain that he's not dining as well as you

which is heart is not as warm as yours is in winter.

Very true, I just never quite thought of it in those terms.

Well...all's gone well I see.

'Right on time.'

[dramatic music]

[horses neighing]

'What the hell is the matter with you, Sylvester?'

If you can't do that without scaring them, get out!

Get out!

[dramatic music]

General, this is Satangkai w*r chief of the Sioux nation.

I've heard of this great chief

I welcome him.

Wishing that the circumstances of our meeting were different.

[speaking in Sioux]

Now that we're here, will someone cut us loose.

- General, would you order-- - Matter earlier apology first.

Captain?

Yes, sir.

He wants you to say the words, general

same as he would if he was apologizing to you.

The written explanation is what I agreed to, Macahan.

Explanation?

[speaking in Sioux]

He wants to know if you are down and promise to take the blame.

No. We admit that a mistake was made.

- Mistake, hell. - Read the statement, Captain.

Yes, sir.

[clears throat] "Greetings to the chief.."

He doesn't want to hear the words from a sub-chief.

He wants to hear them from you. One chief to another.

General, you will be good enough to read that document.

Very well, Your Highness.

[clears throat]

"Greetings to the Chief of the Sioux

"This is to acknowledge an inadvertent error

"on the part of this authority.

'"In the incident occurring on south-west sector of the lands'

'"held in the trust with the Sioux nation'

'"It is with personal regret, that we acknowledge'

'"the unfortunate misunderstanding'

'"which has led the unhappy relations between our peoples.'

"Signed this day for General John Marcus Stonecipher

"on behalf of Fort...Sully personnel."

Lot of words that say, damn little.

Macahan, if I hear one more derogatory word out of you

I'll put you under military arrest.

I'm gonna recommend to Satangkai

that he accepts that mealy-mouth statement

'cause it's the only one he is ever likely to get.

But it damn sure wouldn't have hurt you to make out of a piece

of paper with some meanin' to it.

[speaking in Sioux]

He says he gathers from your attitude that you're not happy.

He wants to know from you.

Do you agree that it was the White man's fault.

Satangkai.

It was wrong, it was indeed wrong

and I assure you personally that it will never happen again.

'This payment that we make ...can only in a small way'

'compensate you and your people for your losses.'

But we trust that the payment will acknowledge to all

that a serious...misjudgment was made.

Fair statement, general.

[speaking in Sioux]

- Make the payment to the chief. - Yes, sir.

Like to count the money, Macahan?

I think you're a bigger man than try to cheat these people.

[speaking in Sioux]

- Am I free now, uncle? - Yes, Sergei, yes of course.

- No more formalities, general? - No!

I am under the protection of your government again?

- That sir is a guarantee. - Hm.

[dramatic music]

[exclaiming]

[ululating cry]

- Aah. - Oh.

Aah.

[speaking in Sioux]

[instrumental music]

[g*n shot]

No, stop it! What did they say?

He says if it's to be w*r the Sioux know how to die.

'And they know how to fight too.'

If you are looking for me, I'll be with 'em.

Macahan! I'll have his head. Do you hear?

His head you tell that to your Indian friend.

[dramatic music]

[horse galloping]

General's ordered me to tell you that if you gonna stay

'with the Indian's, you gonna have to walk.'

I'm sorry, Zeb. Sorry as hell.

[music continues]

[horses galloping]

- You know what? - What?

Sam Church at the mercantile just got in some peanut candy.

Well, that's really interesting.

But I never cared much for peanut candy.

- You didn't? - No.

I never knew no one who didn't like peanut candy.

I know something I bet you'd like to know.

What?

You sure you don't like peanut candy?

- Tommy? - It ain't all that much.

Heard a fella sayin' you might have to bushin' him out.

What fella?

Forget just now.

You forget what's so important?

Like that them sister of mine's always sayin'

it's gone clean out of my head.

And peanut candies good for remembering.

It might be.

Now, tell me exactly what did you hear?

I heard Tobe Harker talking to some of his friends.

He don't think it's fitting you living

in the same house with my sister.

Well, Tobe Harker doesn't have anything to worry about.

Your sister hasn't said more than four words to me

since I've put on this badge.

Well, you gonna fight him?

Of course not.

That's too bad. I bet he'd be a humdinger.

But Tobe will probably whip ya.

Oh!

Pa says it don't matter that Tobe ain't too bright

'cause he don't have to outsmart anybody.

'He can fight like hell.'

Hey, you too young to be saying hell.

How old do you have to be?

You're too old to have to ask.

What about Tobe and you?

Well, I hate to disappoint you, Tommy, but you're Pa hired me

to keep the peace.

Not disturb it.

Isn't it a little early for you to be up and around?

If you're trying to sound like a doctor

you ain't doing much of a job of it.

Anyway, I was getting bed rot on my back side laying up at home.

Well, it's your hip.

You can wreck it if you want to.

Nobody wrecking anything.

And how come these half-a-davies ain't been over to Yankton yet?

Because they just got in this morning

and you're suppose to sign 'em

'I was gonna take him home with me tonight.'

If you don't like the way I do my job, get somebody else.

Calm down, son, calm down.

Don't get sensitive on me.

You're doing a fine job it's just that..

...uh, I've been uh..

...been feeling kind of useless I guess.

Pa, what are you trying to do with yourself?

The doctor said that there's a danger of infections setting in.

- And you? - Me?

What are you crazy letting him come hoppin' down here--

I didn't have anything.

Hold up, girl. hold up.

It was my own idea.

Between you and the doc and his wife

I was about to get nursed to death.

Pa..

Just get on home, Hillary. I'll be fine.

Be fine. Get.

Alright.

You better be back in 15 minutes.

Because if you'll not, I'll send the doc's wife after you.

And you better make sure he gets there.

She is little on the bossy side, that girl.

It's time she had a man to put it in place.

All the young fellows around here, they got no notion how to

'handle a spirited woman.'

- You're her father. - I don't count.

She quit paying much attention to what I say long time ago.

What I can't figure out is why you and her

don't seem take to each other. What's the matter?

Ain't she pretty enough for you?

Well. Well, sure she is.

I...I don't know, I..

Ya, I kind of..

I don't know. You know, I mean she's kind of--

Well, I don't break out the rash, son.

I'm not trying to ramrod into a weddin'.

None of my business, anyway.

There's so many of them.

- Hey, Tobe. - Huh?

Here he comes.

What you gonna do, Tobe?

Please, don't you worry about it, Jess.

'Hey?'

Hi, Tobe.

I've been meaning to talk with you.

Well, here I am.

It's about Hillary Gant.

Her and me is the next thing to engaged.

That's funny, she never mentioned it.

'Congratulations.'

He's making fun of you, Tobe.

If I was you, I'd give him a lick upside the head.

Shut up, C.L.

What I'm saying is that ...I don't like the idea

of you livin' in the same house with her.

Might put ideas in your head.

'Seeing her all the time that way.'

Tobe I give you my word.

Nothing's happened between Hillary and me.

And nothing is ever going to.

I'm just staying there till Orville gets back on his feet.

'That's all.'

- Nothing? - Nothing.

Well, alright.

Just you remember what I said.

There's dance tomorrow night down at the hall.

Anybody going?

Well, with the miners coming down for a spree.

Looks like I'm going to be working.

Hm.

How about you, sugar?

- I'm going alright. - Who with?

Tobe Harker, I wouldn't if I had a choice though.

What do you mean?

You don't have to go with nobody in this town she don't want.

Well, I've to, pa. I made a bet with Tobe and lost.

Thanks to him.

I didn't have anything to do with that.

Alright, let's not talk about it anymore, it's in the past.

Speaking about Tobe

I was talking to him today.

'He had some news.'

Oh, what's that?

He happened to mention that Hillary and him are engaged.

Engaged?

Pa, I swear to you it is a lie.

'He must have been drunk or asleep.'

Actually what he said was next thing to engaged.

Oh, good luck, Tobe. He's gonna need it.

You know I just want to know one little thing.

When have you and Tobe Harker become so close, close friends?

We aren't.

What were the two of you talking about?

You.

He's worried that I might take unfair advantage

of the situation.

I mean me bein' here in the house

'and you bein' so available and all.'

Available?

I told him he didn't have anything to worry about.

I suppose you think that real funny, don't you?

Well, I don't happen to find it very amusing at all.

Mr. Macahan.

[instrumental music]

You better watch yourself, son.

I got a feeling that daughter mine is grown fond of you.

[instrumental music]

Gentlemen, we're setting forth to punish the heathen.

And punished he'll be.

We've to teach him a lesson that he'll not forget.

So, we'll attack, we'll harry

we'll pursue him and we'll pin the savage

And when his pinned he'll be destroyed understood?

[all] Yes, sir.

Expect our marching orders in 48 hours.

Long before that time, gentlemen.

I want every soldiers in this post prepared to move out

at a moment's notice.

I'll eat raw the liver of any officer

who's not 100 percent prepared. Is that understood?

- Yes, sir. - Dismiss.

Major, you can inform his Imperial Highness

I'll avenge his idiot nephew, soon as I get my orders.

You really think, you'll get your orders in 48 hours?

Oh, yeah.

Every news paper in the country has been screaming

about this thing ever since it happened.

And every politician wasn't screaming right along with them

won't be in office very long.

We'll get our orders.

We might even do better than 48 hours.

You don't think there's any hope in stopping this thing?

Well, major, we've to be realistic.

Now we, are dead wrong.

Anyway you look at it.

We blundered very badly.

The only way that we can save face is to hurl us in the battle

roaring righteous in the ignition

of the treachery of the red man.

I am ashamed.

I've never fought Indians before.

Only have to look in the face of the w*r chiefs Satangkai.

See the pride in him.

He won't be subdued easily.

Well, major. I have things to do.

[clears throat]

[dramatic music]

Macahan's coming in.

[dramatic music]

'Come in.'

What is it, McAlister?

You're not gonna believe this sir but Macahan just came in.

The hell I'm not gonna believe it?

Tell Major Drake he owes me a month's pay.

What's he doing here, sir?

He might have come for his property, his horse to be exact.

Don't stand just there. Collect my bet from your officer.

Yes, sir.

Howdy, Jeff.

You know where my horse is?

- Yes, sir. It's in the stable. - Get him.

I don't have the authority to give you--

That horse is my property. what is mine nobody takes from me.

Get him, saddle him and bring him here now.

Talk about the authority later.

Yes, sir.

What you think you're doing here, Macahan?

I've come for my property, general.

- I figured. - You aim to keep me from it?

I could.

I can've your tongue on the end of this boye knife

before you manage the two.

I believe you'd try.

- You aim to go after Satangkai? - Soon as I get my new order.

'I'll have the Sioux by the scalp blocks'

'before this week is out.'

You talk a good fight, general.

I'll fight a good fight, Macahan.

Your Indian friends will find that out.

'You gonna make a whole Sioux nation suffer'

'because of one man, general.'

It's a miracle he didn't get k*lled years ago.

You!

How dare you speak of Sergei in that manner?

Mister I'm sorry, he's dead for your sake.

If ever a man asked for it, he did.

I'll not tolerate this, general.

Sergei lost his life as direct result

of this man's miscalculations

and he is paid to know that the savage can't be trusted.

You know as well I do, we'll wanted to get that man

back here alive and safe.

We damn near did until he went and slashed Satangkai

with that whip.

If I were you, I'll get on that horse and ride out.

- While you can. - You cannot let him go.

I insist that he be punished.

General, look.

It was one Indian brave that did that k*lling.

Now why not find that man and make him pay for it?

Not the whole Sioux nation.

Don't be a damn fool.

These decisions are not made by people like you and me.

Washington decides what will be done

and Washington will order me to march against the Sioux.

Now, will you get out before I've to throw in irons?

You cannot let him go? I insist that he be punished.

[dramatic music]

[speaking in foreign language]

General, we gotta stop this.

'Major Macahan, just come 30 miles on foot.'

He's in no condition to defend himself.

Oh, I think he'll do more than defend himself.

That man's wearing a steel breast plate.

[dramatic music]

[grunting]

[grunts]

[dramatic music]

Uh-hum!

[panting]

I wish to leave this place, major.

At sun rise tomorrow.

'You'll make the arrangements immediately.'

Yes, Your Highness.

You are fools, all of you.

Do you really imagine that you can have a society

where every man considers himself the equal

of every other man?

'Where every serf and every peasants, oppose his betters'

'with impunity.'

When a man like Macahan can defy your authority

'and walk away without any fear of being punished?'

'No, gentlemen'

'This is folly, shear folly.'

One day...soon..

...this nation will crash around you ears.

And I for one ...will await that day..

...with great pleasure.

[instrumental music]

You do not understand, any of you?

He's gone to the Indians.

And he'll fight with them.

Against you.

[instrumental music]

[music continues]

[instrumental music]

[music continues]