Épisode Mort ou vif (1/2) S04E17 - Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman Saison 4

"Dead or Alive"

Part I



Written by
Carl Binder



Directed by
Chuck Bowman






CBS ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTIONS Prod. #2244-0418
in association with PRODUCTION DRAFT
THE SULLIVAN COMPANY October 5, 1995
(C) MCMXCVI Rev. Blue, October 17, 1995
CBS Inc. Rev. Pink, October 19, 1995
All Rights Reserved Rev. Yellow, October 26, 1995
Rev. Green, November 1, 1995
Rev. Goldenrod, November 7, 1995
Rev. Salmon, January 15, 1996
Rev. Buff, January 18, 1996

CBS INC. IS THE AUTHOR OF THIS PROGRAM
FOR THE PURPOSE OF COPYRIGHT AND OTHER LAWS

No portion of this material may be copied or distributed without the prior consent of CBS Inc.



DR. QUINN, MEDICINE WOMAN

"Dead or Alive - Part I

Cast List


MICHAELA QUINN
SULLY

MATTHEW
COLLEEN
BRIAN

LOREN
DOROTHY
REVEREND

JAKE
HANK
PRESTON

ROBERT E

CLOUD DANCING

EZRA LEONARD
CALEB
DR. CASSIDY

NOAH MCBRIDE
WALKS ALONE
MAN (WITH PREGNANT WIFE AND SMALL CHILD)


FEATURED EXTRAS: LEONARD'S AIDE
LEONARD'S COOK
MAN'S PREGNANT WIFE
MAN'S SMALL CHILD


BACKGROUND: TOWNSFOLK


HORACE, MYRA AND GRACE DELETED*

TEASER


FADE IN:


EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 1

A festive atmosphere envelopes the station as PRESTON supervises the hanging of a banner declaring: COLORADO SPRINGS SAYS "YES!" TO STATEHOOD! A makeshift podium has been set up, with colorful streamers. The crowd, dressed in their Sunday best and holding miniature American flags, waits anxiously for the train to arrive. Among them are JAKE, LOREN and DOROTHY. Also here are MATTHEW and BRIAN, who reads the banner, a bit confused.

BRIAN
"Colorado Springs says 'Yes' to statehood."
(to Matthew)
Thought Colorado was a territory.

MATTHEW
It is.

JAKE
Not for long.
(waves his flag)
Pretty soon we're gonna be another star on the flag.

BRIAN
But what's the difference between a territory an' a state?

Jake pauses. He hasn't a clue.

JAKE
Well, uh... a state is...

Preston steps forward, taking the ball. He kneels in front of Brian, like a father coaching his son.

PRESTON
Have you learned about the Revolutionary War yet, Brian? How our country was once a British colony?

BRIAN
Sure. We fought the British to get our independence.

(CONTINUED)

2.


CONTINUED: 1

PRESTON
That's right. Well, what we have here in Colorado is a similar situation. As a territory, we're very much like a colony of the federal government, not allowed to make our own decisions.

BRIAN
Taxation without representation.

Preston smiles, impressed -- Can you believe this kid?

PRESTON
Very good. But as a state, we'll finally have a voice in Congress. And we'll be able to decide on our own who our governor will be. Someday, that might even be you.

Preston hands Brian a flag. Brian takes it, beaming.

PRESTON
Until now statehood for Colorado was only a dream. But with Ezra Leonard at the helm, it's about to become a reality.

BRIAN
Who's he?

Preston stands, stares off down the train tracks, his excitement building.

PRESTON
The man we're waiting for.


INT. CLINIC - DAY ONE 2

COLLEEN'S at the window, staring out at the street with curious interest as MIKE examines the REVEREND'S sore throat. She feels under the Reverend's chin for swollen glands.

MIKE
Can you open your mouth?

The Reverend gingerly opens his mouth.

COLLEEN
You goin' to the statehood speech, Ma?

(CONTINUED)

3.


CONTINUED: 2

MIKE
I'm afraid I can't. I'm going to be away most of the afternoon on house calls.
(peering into the Reverend's throat)
Ah-ha, there's the culprit.

Colleen steps over, and Mike allows her a look.

COLLEEN
Tonsillitis?

MIKE
Excellent, Colleen.

REVEREND
Is it serious?

MIKE
Well, your fever is low, that's a good sign. I'll mix you some Dover's powder to drink with water. That should help relieve the symptoms. Hopefully, you should be back to normal in a week or so.

Sully enters holding a paper bag.

COLLEEN
Hey, Sully.

SULLY
Hey, everybody.

Sully hands the bag to Mike, who reacts, confused.

MIKE
What's this?
(suddenly remembering)
Lunch. I'm sorry, Sully, I was supposed to meet you...

SULLY
It's all right.

MIKE
I've been so busy today, I completely lost track of time.

COLLEEN
You goin' to the statehood speech, Sully?

(CONTINUED)

4.


CONTINUED: (2) 2

SULLY
Can't. On my way out to the reservation.

From outside, we HEAR the distant train whistle blow. Mike turns to Colleen.

MIKE
I have an idea, Colleen. Why don't you go to the speech? Then you can fill us in on anything important.

COLLEEN
(pleased)
Sure.

And out she goes.


EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 3

The train pulls into the station and stops, to the APPLAUSE of the crowd. Colleen hurries over and stands next to Matthew and Brian, just in time to see EZRA LEONARD disembarking. In his 50's, Leonard is a charismatic gentleman who knows the importance of a smile and handshake. But, like all politicians, there's something artificial about his demeanor. With him is his 12-year-old son, CALEB, dressed in a fancy suit and tie, looking bored and uncomfortable. Behind Leonard comes his entourage: AIDE, COOK, etc.

Preston moves in, shaking Leonard's hand, as Jake and the other townsfolk hover around.

PRESTON
Welcome to Colorado Springs, Mr. Leonard.

LEONARD
Preston, how many times must I tell you -- call me Ezra.

PRESTON
Ezra.

LEONARD
You remember my son, Caleb.

PRESTON
(ruffling the boy's hair)
Of course I do.

LEONARD
How's the bank?

(CONTINUED)

5.


CONTINUED: 3

PRESTON
Picking up steam.

LEONARD
Why doesn't that surprise me?
(to Jake and others)
The man comes to Denver, asks for advice in starting up small "financial enterprise."
(looks back at Preston)
The next think I know, he's running his own bank.

PRESTON
(feigning modesty)
A small bank, I assure you.

LEONARD
But not for long.
(back to the townsfolk)
Mark my words, folks -- this man is going places!

JAKE
(under his breath)
Not soon enough.

Preston heard that. He gives Jake a quick look as he ushers Leonard to the podium.

PRESTON
Well, I know your time is limited in our fair town, so...
(gesturing)
... the podium is all yours.

LEONARD
Podiums are for speech-makers, son. And I don't give speeches.

And with that, he raises his voice to the crowd, launching into his speech.

LEONARD
What I do is speak my mind, and for the last ten years, my mind has been focused on one subject and one subject only -- statehood for Colorado!
(cheers)
Twice in the last decade the issue has been launched, and both times a small and very vocal group of nay-sayers has managed to sink it. But I for one am not about to concede.

(CONTINUED)

6.


CONTINUED: (2) 3

Leonard pulls out a sheaf of papers and holds them up.

LEONARD
I'm on my way to Washington to present this statement, signed by a number of prominent citizens, to the Senate Committee on Territories. With it I hope to -- no, I will -- push through enabling legislation that will place the future of this territory in the hands of the good people of Colorado!

More CHEERS from the crowd. Leonard continues, but as he speaks:


+BRIAN 4

finds his attention drawn to Caleb, who stands back behind his father, fidgeting, bored out of his mind.

LEONARD
This statement says we are tired of being occupied by a government of office-seeking Carpetbaggers dumped on us by the vote-starved opportunists in Washington!

More CHEERS. Seeing that everyone's attention is on his father, Caleb slowly inches his way to the edge of the crowd. Certain that no one's watching him, he then quietly ducks off into the bushes.

But Brian's watching, and he's curious. So he follows him.


EXT. WOODS - DAY ONE 5

Brian follows at a distance as Caleb wanders down the path. Caleb tosses off his hat, undoes his tie, then picks up some rocks and begins tossing them, trying to hit tree trunks with them.

Brian feels for this lonely kid. He steps forward, about to introduce himself, when suddenly:


+TWO LARGE HANDS 6

reach out from a thicket and grab Caleb. Swiftly and silently, one hand covers his mouth as the other drags him into the brush. With barely a rustle of branches, the boy is gone.

Brian reacts, horrified.


7.


EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 7

The speech continues...

LEONARD
...and as gentlemen, we'll take our fight to the floors of Congress. And fight we shall!
(cheers)
Surrender is not an option!

BRIAN
Help! Somebody help!

Everyone turns to see Brian running up in a panic.

LOREN
What is it, boy?

BRIAN
(to Leonard)
Your son...

Leonard looks around, sees Caleb is gone. He turns back to Brian.

LEONARD
Where is he? What happened?

BRIAN
Somebody kidnapped him!

As the crowd reacts with shock, we:

FADE OUT.

END TEASER




8.


ACT ONE


FADE IN:


EXT. WOODS - DAY ONE 8

Brian leads Leonard and several of the townsfolk to the spot where Caleb was kidnapped. Among the group are Matthew, Preston, Jake, Loren, and Dorothy.

BRIAN
He was throwin' rocks over here, an' then somebody grabbed him from the bushes.

Brian finds Caleb's hat and hands it to Matthew.

MATTHEW
Which way did they go?

BRIAN
(points)
That way, I think. It happened so fast --

LEONARD
How many were there?

BRIAN
I don't know. Only saw some arms.

MATTHEW
I'm gonna get a posse together.

PRESTON
I'll go.

JAKE
Me too.

DOROTHY
(seeing something)
Look!

The men look up, startled to discover an INDIAN WOMAN (30's) standing about twenty yards away, watching them. She's not from the reservation -- this woman looks like she just stepped down from the mountains. Her expression is calm, her stare silencing the men for a moment. Finally:

MATTHEW
Who are you?

(CONTINUED)

9.


CONTINUED: 8

WALKS ALONE
I am Walks Alone. I have come with a message.

LEONARD
Do you know what happened to my son?

WALKS ALONE
He is safe.

Leonard suddenly starts toward her, his anger surfacing.

LEONARD
Where is he?!

WALKS ALONE
(unruffled)
Do not come further, or he will be harmed.

Leonard freezes. The men look around, scanning the trees for any accomplices. But Matthew keeps his eye on Walks Alone.

MATTHEW
What's the message?

WALKS ALONE
(to Leonard)
You will ride to Cache Creek. There you will hand over the statement you have prepared for the Senate Committee on Territories.

LEONARD
What?

WALKS ALONE
You will also promise to withdraw from the Colorado statehood movement.

LEONARD
Look... you people have always been treated fairly by me --

WALKS ALONE
You have four days.

LEONARD
Four days? Wait a minute...
(takes out papers)
Here, I can give them to you now.

(CONTINUED)

10.


CONTINUED: (2) 8

WALKS ALONE
Cache Creek. In four days. Only then will your son be returned to you.

LEONARD
(anger returning)
I don't believe this! How dare you tell me what --

MATTHEW
(to Walks Alone)
He'll be there.

For the first time, Walks Alone looks at Matthew, who still holds Caleb's hat.

WALKS ALONE
You are being watched. If you follow me, the boy will be harmed.

And with that, she disappears into the trees. Leonard calls after her.

LEONARD
You touch him and I'll kill you! Do you hear me?

But she's gone. Matthew stares down at the hat in his hands as we:

CUT TO:


EXT. GENERAL STORE - DAY ONE 9

A MAP of the local region is unfurled across the railing. WIDEN to REVEAL Loren, Matthew, Leonard, Preston, Jake, and HANK, as they lean in to study it. The mood is rushed, urgent.

LOREN
Never heard 'a Cache Creek.

HANK
Never heard such a stupid ransom demand.

MATTHEW
(searching the map)
Don't see it anywhere.

LOREN
Maybe we should call in the Marshal. Or the army.

(CONTINUED)

11.


CONTINUED: 9

MATTHEW
We don't have to call the army. Walks Alone made it clear what we gotta do.

Hank reacts to the name with familiarity.

HANK
Walks Alone? That who we're dealin' with?

PRESTON
You know this woman?

HANK
No... but I heard 'a her. She's Noah McBride's squaw.

Reactions all around -- this name is legendary to everyone... all except Preston, that is.

PRESTON
Who's Noah McBride?

JAKE
Trapper. Mountain man.

LOREN
Thought he was dead.

HANK
I did, too... then word come down he killed a ten foot griz with only a skinner. Made a necklace from the claws.

PRESTON
And where does this charming character live?

JAKE
Back country, off the map.

Matthew rolls up the map, handing it back to Loren.

MATTHEW
Which is prob'ly where Cache Creek is.

LEONARD
Well, is there anyone in town who would know how to find it?

As the men exchange a look:

SMASH CUT TO:


12.


INT. HOMESTEAD - LATE AFTERNOON - DAY ONE 10

CLOSE ON SULLY, as he enters to discover Mike in the kitchen, hard at work preparing supper (stew). Sully comes over, sniffs the stew, then kisses her.

SULLY
Smells good.

MIKE
I'm paying you back for missing lunch.

SULLY
Kids home?

MIKE
Not yet.

SULLY
(re: supper)
Let me finish this. You go sit down.

He gently steers her to the table.

MIKE
I'm all right.

SULLY
I know you are... but the baby needs a rest.

Mike smiles as Sully sits her down. We FOLLOW SULLY as he goes back to the stove.

MIKE (O.S.)
I think you're right. She's been kicking me all afternoon.

SULLY
She?

No response from Mike as Sully tests the stew, adds a little salt. He turns back to the table, but pauses when he sees:


+MIKE 11

who now has her stethoscope out and is listening to her stomach. She looks up at him, motions him over. He sits beside her. She places the stethoscope over his ears and presses the chestpiece against her stomach. Mike watches for Sully's reaction as he listens intently... and then he hears it.

(CONTINUED)

13.


CONTINUED: 11

SULLY
(amazed)
What is that?

MIKE
A heartbeat.

Sully listens some more... and as he does, a big smile spreads across his face. Mike caresses his cheek as he continues to listen, thrilled.

The SOUND of horses riding up outside catches Sully's attention. He looks out the window.

SULLY
Somebody's comin'.

He goes out the door to investigate.


EXT. PORCH - CONTINUOUS - DAY ONE 12

Sully steps out to discover Matthew, Leonard, Preston and Jake riding up.

MATTHEW
Hey, Sully. You know where Cache Creek is?

SULLY
Yeah.

JAKE
Can you take us there?

PRESTON
That won't be necessary.
(to Sully, as he unfurls the map)
If you could just show us on the map, I'm sure we'll be able to find --

MATTHEW
We're not goin' up there without a guide.

PRESTON
Then we'll hire one who's adequately qualified.

JAKE
Nobody knows these mountains better than Sully.

(CONTINUED)

14.


CONTINUED: 12

SULLY
What's all this about?

The men are surprised.

JAKE
You mean you haven't heard?

PRESTON
We've some business to attend to with Noah McBride.

Sully reacts to the name.

PRESTON
I see you know him, too.

SULLY
Not personally. An' I got no quarrel with him --

LEONARD
He kidnapped my son.

This hits Sully hard -- he can't believe it.

SULLY
Kidnapped?

MATTHEW
It's true, Sully.

Sully stands there a moment, absorbing this. Then:

SULLY
Be dark soon. We'll ride in the mornin', at first light.

LEONARD
Can we make it there in four days?

SULLY
Three, if the weather holds.

PRESTON
I think we should leave now. We'll save time.

SULLY
No. Trail's rough in spots. Easier to move in daylight.

Preston turns to Leonard.

(CONTINUED)

15.


CONTINUED: (2) 12

PRESTON
Look, I know of some expert trackers who work out of Denver. I can wire them, have them here first thing in the morning.

LEONARD
No. It's settled. Sully's leading us.
(starting off)
We leave at daybreak.

Preston looks to Sully, giving him a cold look.


EXT. GENERAL STORE - DAWN - DAY TWO 13

The men pack their saddlebags, getting ready to ride out. Loren and Dorothy watch from the porch as Jake adjusts his stirrup straps, and Hank finishes stuffing a bottle of whiskey and hunk of chaw into his pack.

LOREN
You boys know I'd be ridin' with you, if it weren't on account 'a my health.

Jake and Hank nod, understanding.

JAKE
Will you keep an eye on my shop while I'm gone?

Loren nods.

DOROTHY
I want a full description of McBride when you get back. Not many folks 'round here have set eyes on him.

HANK
-- An' lived to tell about it.

JAKE
Heard he scalped a whole Blackfoot war party once.

DOROTHY
Now, Jake, that's just tall tales. I want the facts.

(CONTINUED)

16.


CONTINUED: 13

JAKE
It's true.
(back to the men)
Four of 'em he scalped while they was still alive.

PRESTON
(stepping up)
His mother must be so proud.
(then, to Loren)
Loren, I'd like to make a purchase if I may.

Preston leads Loren into the store, as Leonard walks past leading his (recently purchased) horse. Leonard's expression is serious -- the man is ready for anything. Behind him are his Aide and Cook, riding in a buckboard wagon.

Hank turns to Jake, leaning close.

HANK
How much you s'pose he's worth?

JAKE
From just his minin' business, or his family's money too?

Hank whistles, impressed.


EXT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS 14

Matthew's out front with Colleen and Brian, who help him finish packing his bags as Leonard steps up.

LEONARD
Are we ready, Sheriff?

(CONTINUED)

17.


CONTINUED: 14

MATTHEW
Almost. Just waitin' for Sully.
(then)
Don't worry, Mr. Leonard. We'll get your son back, safe an' sound.

LEONARD
Ever since his mother passed away, he's all I've got... and I'm not about to lose him.

The intensity of Leonard's emotions makes Matthew uneasy. He gives Leonard a quiet nod, then looks over, reacting with surprise to see Robert E approaching, leading his horse.

ROBERT E
Like to ride with you.

Before Matthew can respond:

LEONARD
I don't think that will be necessary. We have more than enough men accompanying us. But thank you for your concern.

Leonard's patronizing tone is not lost on Robert E... nor Matthew.

MATTHEW
(to Leonard, with conviction)
If Robert E wants to come along, then he's comin'.

Leonard stares at Matthew for a moment, then shrugs it off.

LEONARD
Whatever you say, Sheriff.
(to Robert E)
Just don't get in the way.

Leonard moves off. Robert E watches him, his dislike of the man building. Matthew turns to him.

MATTHEW
Sure you wanna do this?

ROBERT E
A child's been kidnapped... can't sit back and do nothin'.

PRESTON (O.S.)
Gentlemen, what do you think?


18.


+ANGLE ON PRESTON 14A

coming out of the store, brandishing a shiny new revolver.

PRESTON
My first "peacemaker."
(off their looks)
Well, that's what you call it, don't you?

JAKE
You mean to tell me you never fired a gun before?

PRESTON
First time for everything, Jake.

HANK
(to Matthew)
He's carryin' a gun in town, Sheriff. Ain't you gonna arrest him?

MATTHEW
I'll allow it, seein' as we're ridin' out.

HANK
Hell, in that case...

Hank and Jake strap on their revolvers with a smile.


INT. CLINIC - DAY TWO 15

Mike hugs Sully, feeling apprehensive about the journey.

MIKE
I want you and Matthew to look out for each other.

SULLY
Should be all right, long as nobody does anythin' stupid.

MIKE
Do you think Caleb is safe?

SULLY
McBride said he wouldn't hurt him.

MIKE
But can you trust him?

Sully pauses, clearly strugging with this.

(CONTINUED)

19.


CONTINUED: 15

SULLY
I don't know. Still can't believe he'd do somethin' like this.
(beat)
But he's known to be a man of his word. It's all I got to go by.
(picks up his bundle)
Either way, I'm not comin' back without that boy.

Matthew opens the door, sticks his head in.

MATTHEW
Everybody's ready.

Mike hugs Sully again, kisses him. Sully looks into her eyes.

SULLY
Make sure you get plenty 'a rest while I'm gone. Don't be workin' so hard.

MIKE
You just worry about getting the two of you back home safely. Then I'll be able to rest.


EXT. CLINIC/STREET - CONTINUOUS - DAY TWO 16

Mike, Sully and Matthew come out and join Brian and Colleen for final AD-LIB good-byes. As Matthew hugs Colleen, Sully crouches, puts his hands on Brian's shoulders.

BRIAN
Wish I could go with you.

SULLY
Somebody's gotta stay behind, look after the family.
(touching Brian's necklace)
While I'm gone, you're the man of the house.

Brian nods, taking this responsibility to heart. Sully stands, gives Mike one last kiss.

SULLY
See you in a week...

He glances over, sees Leonard's Aide struggling to mount his horse. Sully turns back to Mike.

(CONTINUED)

20.


CONTINUED: 16

SULLY
... give or take a few days.

Mike nods, fighting her emotions. Sully and Matthew head over to:


+THE MEN 17

who are mounting their horses, ready to ride out. Sully stops by Leonard, eyeing his entourage.

SULLY
What's all this?

LEONARD
My personal Aide and Cook.

SULLY
Cook?

LEONARD
Venturing into a savage land need not make us savages, Mr. Sully. I'll deliver the ransom to McBride... but I will not play his game.


OMITTED (18) 18

Sully mounts his horse, looks to the group -- nine men in all, including himself, Matthew, Preston, Jake, Hank, Robert E, Leonard, his Aide and Cook, driving the wagon.

SULLY
Let's go.


+MIKE 19

calls out to Sully and Matthew from in front of the clinic.

MIKE
Be careful!


+ON THE MEN 20

as Preston raises his revolver with a smile.

PRESTON
Tell that to McBride!

(CONTINUED)

21.


CONTINUED: 20

Sully looks at Preston, then back at Mike, who watches with concern. Sully then leads the men out of town, riding off into the hills as we:

FADE OUT.

END ACT ONE




22.


ACT TWO


FADE IN:


OMITTED (20A) 20A


EXT. TRAIL - DAY TWO 21

The trail is wide and well-formed. The men ride several abreast, making their way through the rolling hills. The Cook and Aide bring up the rear in the wagon.

Leonard and Preston are deep in conversation as the men arrive at a small stream.

LEONARD
... a modest operation at best, but it was a start.

SULLY
We'll stop here, water the horses.

Preston continues the conversation as the men dismount, allowing the horses to drink.

PRESTON
You were based in San Francisco?

LEONARD
Originally. But I came in too late, business was slow. Then rumors spread about the Russell brothers' finding gold at Dry Creek, so I moved my entire company out here.

JAKE
Because of a rumor?

PRESTON
(impressed)
The greater the risk, the greater the triumph.

MATTHEW
Or the greater the fall.

(CONTINUED)

23.


CONTINUED: 21

LEONARD
No. You mustn't allow failure to enter the picture.
(back to Preston)
Quitting is not an option.

Preston nods, agreeing. Leonard turns to Sully.

LEONARD
That is why I won't quit until my son is safe and McBride is brought to justice.

MATTHEW
Let's just worry 'bout gettin' your boy back, first.

Leonard doesn't acknowledge this -- he's still watching Sully.

LEONARD
Tell me, Mr. Sully. You're a former mountain man, why do you suppose McBride kidnapped my son?

SULLY
Pretty clear. He doesn't want the territory becomin' a state.

LEONARD
But why?

SULLY
Lotta people think statehood's gonna change things.

PRESTON
(interjecting)
Of course it is. It's the symbol of progress.

LEONARD
He can't stop this, you know. It's inevitable.

SULLY
He doesn't know that. All he knows is what he sees -- minin' companies tearin' up the hills, dryin' up streams, scarin' off game...

(CONTINUED)

24.


CONTINUED: (2) 21

PRESTON
(to Leonard)
You'll have to excuse Sully. He has a tender spot in his heart for squirrels and bunnies and such.

Leonard looks back to Sully.

LEONARD
Yes, well, the only "tender spot" I have is for the future of Colorado... the success of which is tied to two things, and only two things -- mining and statehood.

Preston smiles...

PRESTON
Hear, hear.

But Leonard doesn't look at him. His eyes are still locked on Sully, who says nothing.


EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY TWO 22

Brian is hard at work, attempting to fix the handle on the front door, which is loose. He works diligently as Mike hangs rugs over the rail and cleans them with a rug beater.

MIKE
What're you doing, Brian?

BRIAN
Sully's been talkin' 'bout the door handle bein' loose, not shuttin' right. So I'm gonna fix it for him.

MIKE
I'm sure it can wait until he gets home.

BRIAN
No, I'm the man of the house. I can do it.

Colleen comes out carrying two more rugs.

COLLEEN
(to Mike)
Ma, Miss Grace was askin' if she could bring Anthony in tomorrow mornin'.

(CONTINUED)

25.


CONTINUED: 22

MIKE
That's fine.

COLLEEN
But you already got a full day scheduled.

MIKE
One more patient won't be a problem. Especially Anthony...

Mike stops short, leaning against the rail, suddenly light-headed.

COLLEEN
You all right, Ma?

The dizziness quickly passes, and Mike composes herself, manages a smile.

MIKE
Yes. I'm fine.

COLLEEN
Maybe you should lie down.

MIKE
It's all right. I'm just a little tired.

She turns back to the rug and resumes cleaning it.

BRIAN
Finished.

Brian steps back, then proudly demonstrates his handiwork by slamming the door shut. Mike and Colleen give him a smile...

... but then the door pops open again. Off Brian's scowl...


EXT. CAMPSITE ONE - NIGHT TWO 23

The men have made camp, and thanks to Leonard's Aide and Cook, it has all the comforts of home. The men sit around a table, eating an elaborate dinner served on fine china by the Cook, while the Aide pours wine.

LEONARD
More wine, Mayor Slicker?

JAKE
Yeah. Thanks.

The Aide pours, and Jake drinks.

(CONTINUED)

26.


CONTINUED: 23

HANK
You run a fine camp, Ezra.

LEONARD
Thank you. It's all part of my motto -- Bringing civility to an untamed land.

SULLY
Enjoy it tonight, 'cause in the mornin' --
(gestures to Cook and Aide)
-- I'm sendin' them back home.

PRESTON
What?

SULLY
Tomorrow the trail gets rougher. No room for a wagon.

The men quiet, clearly disappointed.

PRESTON
(a pointed look to Sully)
Soon enough, these trails are going to be roads, and these hills will be towns, and a man like McBride will be no more than an amusing anecdote in a history book.

SULLY
(evenly)
Like I said, that's why he took the boy.

Leonard reacts, incredulous.

LEONARD
Are you defending him?

PRESTON
That man is an outlaw!

SULLY
I'm not defendin' him. I'm just sayin' I understand why he did it.

The men quiet. Sully looks to Leonard.

(CONTINUED)

27.


CONTINUED: (2) 23

SULLY
Kidnappin' Caleb was wrong... but in his mind, McBride prob'ly thought he had no other choice.
(stands)
The Indians have always said he's a man of honor, and I wanna believe that if we ride to Cache Creek an' hand over that statement, McBride'll let Caleb go, unharmed, just like he said.

Sully starts off.

LEONARD
You're as naive as McBride, you know that?
(off Sully's look)
I'll hand over the Senate statement, and I'll give my word as a gentleman to withdraw from the statehood movement, if that's what he wants. But once my son is returned, what's to stop me from getting on that train and continuing right on to Washington?

Sully gives him a look.

SULLY
Your word... as a gentleman.

Leonard falls silent, staring back at Sully.


INT. GENERAL STORE - DAY THREE 24

Loren's stocking shelves *as Mike and Colleen enter.

MIKE
Excuse me, Loren, but I need to order some new sheets for the clinic.

Loren turns to her with a big smile.

LOREN
Look at you. Gettin' bigger every day. [Mark my words... it's gonna be a girl.

MIKE
(smiles)
A girl?

(CONTINUED)

28.


CONTINUED: 24

LOREN
It's the way you're carryin'... Just like Maude.

The Reverend enters.]

REVEREND
Good morning, everyone.

MIKE
Good morning, Reverend. How're you feeling?

REVEREND
My throat's still sore. But the powder seems to be helping.

LOREN
What is it, your tonsils?
(Reverend nods)
You know what they say -- only one cure when the tonsils start actin' up.

Loren snips the air with a pair of scissors. The Reverend's eyes flare.

MIKE
That's not necessary, Loren.
(to the Reverend)
We'll remove them only as a last resort. But right now your condition doesn't warrant it.

(CONTINUED)

29.


CONTINUED: (2) 24

Mike leans against the counter, suddenly light-headed again.

[LOREN
You all right, Dr. Mike?]

Once again, the dizziness passes, and Mike tries to brush it off.

MIKE
I'm... just tired.
(turns to Colleen)
I think I'll lie down for a moment. Will you order the sheets?

COLLEEN
Sure.

Mike goes out. Colleen turns to [Loren and the Reverend].

COLLEEN
She's been pushin' herself awfully hard. She keeps sayin' she's all right, but...

She trails off, *looking out the window, concerned.


INT. CLINIC RECOVERY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER - DAY THREE 25

[Colleen steps tentatively in to discover Mike sitting on the edge of the bed, her back to her.

COLLEEN
Ma...?

Mike looks over, and although she's trying very hard to hide it, the worry in her eyes is evident. Colleen comes over, standing beside her.

MIKE
Colleen, I... I don't think there's any reason for you to worry.
(trying to convince herself)
I'm sure this will pass.

COLLEEN
What will?
(sitting beside her)
Ma, tell me what's wrong.

(CONTINUED)

30.


CONTINUED: 25

MIKE
(difficult)
I've... I've been experiencing a little bleeding.

COLLEEN
Bleeding?

MIKE
It's very mild. This happens sometimes during pregnancy...

COLLEEN
You gotta slow down, Ma. You been pushin' yourself too hard.]

MIKE
I haven't been pushing myself any harder than I have in the past.[

COLLEEN]
In the past you weren't pregnant.

[This quiets Mike for a moment, absorbing the weight of Colleen's words. ]From downstairs, we HEAR the bell ring. Mike stands, composes herself.

MIKE
That must be Grace, with Anthony.

[COLLEEN
Ma], you need to lie down.

MIKE
I will, I promise...
(going out)
As soon as I've seen Anthony.


EXT. TRAIL - DAY THREE 26

The men, (now minus the Cook, Aide and wagon) ride through a grove of trees and stop abruptly when they come upon:


+A TINY HOMESTEAD 27

in the middle of nowhere. The front door is open, smoke billows from the chimney... but aside from that, the place looks deserted.

LEONARD
Would you look at that.

(CONTINUED)

30A.


CONTINUED: 27

MATTHEW
(calling out)
Hello? Anybody home?

No answer.

PRESTON
It appears the Seven Dwarfs are still at the mine.

MAN (O.S.)
What do you want?

(CONTINUED)

31.


CONTINUED: (2) 27

The men look over to discover a MAN (late 40's) standing nearby, his PREGNANT WIFE and small CHILD cowering fearfully behind him. Although the man looks tough and at home in the wilderness, there is a definite nervousness in his voice. He holds a rifle in his hand, at the ready.

MATTHEW
Relax, folks. We're not lookin' for trouble.

MAN
Then you best keep on ridin'.

SULLY
Trail to Cache Creek passable?

MAN
Here an' there.

SULLY
Then we'll be on our way.

Sully leads the group as they continue on. Preston calls back to the man as they go.

PRESTON
Are there many other families living out here?

MAN
No. An' I wanna keep it that way.

Preston smiles at this, amused.

PRESTON
Good luck.


+ON SULLY 28

deep in thought as they ride. Preston rides up beside him. Leonard is on the other side of Sully.

PRESTON
Interesting character.
(no response)
Remind you of someone you know? Mountain man turned family man?
(smiles)
Once a legend of the rugged back country, now cooking supper for his pregnant wife...

Sully gives him a look, not amused.

(CONTINUED)

32.


CONTINUED: 28

PRESTON
Don't get me wrong, Sully. I want nothing but the best for you and Michaela. I can even picture you with the baby, rocking him to sleep, changing his little buckskin diapers...

Leonard chuckles at this... which makes Preston smile all the more.

PRESTON
(to Leonard)
They're the most fascinating couple. She, a cultured doctor from Boston, and he...
(back to Sully)
What is your occupation, Sully? I know you build things on occasion, and visit Indians at the reservation from time to time...
(to Leonard)
But with his wife's income, I suppose he doesn't have to work much.

Again, Sully gives Preston a cold look. Leonard reads it, turns to Preston.

LEONARD
If I were you, I'd keep my mouth shut.

Preston gives Leonard a confident grin, then looks to Sully.

PRESTON
What do you say, Sully? You think I should keep my mouth shut?

SULLY
Don't think that's possible.

PRESTON
Sure it is. But it's up to you.

Sully keeps riding, but then Preston reaches over and grabs his reins, stopping his horse. Sully yanks the reins back from him, giving Preston an angry look. Leonard reacts, amazed at this bold move.

Preston looks to Leonard, then back to Sully. The other men watch with varying degrees of concern as the two face off.

(CONTINUED)

33.


CONTINUED: (2) 28

PRESTON
(smile vanishing)
Go ahead, Sully. Shut me up.

Sully stares at him a long moment... but refuses to take the bait.

SULLY
Some other time.

And he rides on. Leonard turns to Preston, impressed, as they and the men follow behind. Preston, feeling victorious, calls after Sully.

PRESTON
That's right... "Some other time." Admit it, Sully -- your fire's gone out.

This hits home with Sully, but he tries not to show it. He just keeps riding, picking up the pace.

PRESTON
You're just like this country -- once wild and untamed... now slowly becoming domesticated!


+CLOSE ON SULLY 29

not looking back as he drives forward, leading the group deeper into the woods as we:

FADE OUT.

END ACT TWO




34.


ACT THREE


FADE IN:


EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY FOUR 30

Brian's outside, once again diligently working on the front door, which is off its hinges and leaning against the steps. Colleen comes out, carrying a plate of food for him.

COLLEEN
It's Saturday. Aren't you goin' fishin'?

BRIAN
Can't. Too many things to do.

Colleen sits on the steps, handing him the food.

COLLEEN
Here, you missed breakfast.

BRIAN
Thanks. Got up early to clean the barn.

Brian eats as Colleen looks at the front door.

COLLEEN
Think it'll hold this time?

BRIAN
Won't quit 'til it does.

MIKE (O.S.)
Colleen! Could you come here, please?

That came from upstairs, and the tension in Mike's voice causes Colleen to jump to her feet and hurry inside.


INT. MIKE AND SULLY'S BEDROOM - DAY FOUR 31

Colleen enters to find Mike sitting on her bed, dressed for work, searching through her medical bag. Several medicines and her stethoscope are laid out on the bed beside her.

COLLEEN
Ma? What's wrong?

Mike looks up at her. The fear in her eyes can no longer be hidden.

(CONTINUED)

35.


CONTINUED: 31

MIKE
Will you ride to the clinic for me? I need some belladonna... and also some ice...

COLLEEN
Are you bleedin' again?

MIKE
It's... increased. I thought it had stopped on its own...

Colleen reacts with concern, but then composes herself, meeting the challenge. She helps Mike put her feet up, reclining back on the bed.

COLLEEN
Stay in bed, keep your feet up. I'll wire Denver for Dr. Bernard.

MIKE
I'm all right. Just bring me the ice and the belladonna --

COLLEEN
-- An' then I'm wirin' Denver.

MIKE
Colleen --

COLLEEN
Just stay in bed an' don't move. I'll be right back.

And out she goes. Mike leans back on the bed. She sees the stethoscope lying nearby... then looks at her stomach, her face clouding with worry. After a beat, she picks up the stethoscope, puts it back in her medical bag and closes it, not allowing herself to think the worst.


EXT. CAMPSITE TWO - LATE AFTERNOON - DAY FOUR 32

No more comforts of home. Jake stirs a pot of beans that cooks over a campfire as Hank watches, chewing on a hunk of jerky between sips of whiskey. Sully stands off to the side, looking over the written statement to the Senate that Leonard will hand over to McBride. Leonard stands beside him, along with Preston and Robert E. Matthew comes over.

MATTHEW
That the Senate statement?

(CONTINUED)

36.


CONTINUED: 32

LEONARD
(nodding)
A small price to pay for my son's life.
(back to Sully)
That's not only my voice in that statement. It speaks for the forty-thousand residents of this territory, who are ready to vote for themselves.

ROBERT E
What 'bout colored folks?

LEONARD
It's difficult enough getting the voting legislation approved. Don't worry, a few years down the line, your people will be cleaned up and better educated, and then you'll have your say.

Robert E can't believe what he just heard.

ROBERT E
Cleaned up?

LEONARD
Socially, I mean. No offense intended.

Robert E gets up, walks off, trying to cool his anger. Leonard looks at the others with a shrug -- What'd I say?

PRESTON
Will you run for Governor?

LEONARD
Perhaps. Although my driving passion is the Senate.

PRESTON
As was my father's. He ran unsuccessfully in '60.
(chuckles)
Then tried to pass his ambition down to his sons.

HANK
(coming over)
You got brothers?

PRESTON
Four. I'm the youngest.

(CONTINUED)

37.


CONTINUED: (2) 32

LEONARD
Five brothers. Must've been difficult to get a word in.

PRESTON
There was a fair amount of competition.
(a fond reflection)
My father encouraged it. He loved watching his sons battle to gain his favor...
(quieting a bit, almost to himself)
... He drove us very hard...

Sully reacts to this revelation with silent interest.

JAKE
(sarcastic)
Sounds like a happy home.

PRESTON
(smiles again)
Oh, we had our moments of discord. But my father never allowed it to descend into all-out warfare. Instead, whenever two of us quarreled, he would settle it in a civilized fashion.

MATTHEW
How's that?

PRESTON
(proud smile)
Boxing. <br