Titanic: Blood and Steel (2012) s01e06 Episode Script
The Imposter
1 (UNINTELLIGIBLE CHATTER) All I ever get are stolen moments.
I've never spent more than one hour with him.
What do you think he wants from you? Nothing.
Of course he does.
I don't understand what you mean.
Oh, Sofia, you weren't born yesterday.
Maybe he likes me.
Have you thought of that? Wait! When was the last time you saw him? Where does he go when he isn't with you? Is he married? Have you asked yourself any of these questions? No.
Well, maybe you should.
Have you seen Conor? No.
Why? I know where he'll be.
(DOOR OPENS) (DOOR CLOSES) What is it? What's happened? I just left some money on the dresser for food.
God know it wasn't much.
It was only sixpence.
And you think Conor took it? I don't know.
It was there.
He went out and it was gone.
He can't have.
He knows all we have are mine and Michael's wages.
You! You have some explaining to do.
What's the matter with you? Not here.
Not in front of Violetta.
You can say it here.
I have nothing to hide.
Fine! You're a thief.
You stole money from your own mother and you're spending it on drink.
(CHUCKLES) I didn't steal it, I borrowed it.
In the meantime, your family go hungry, is it? Sorry about this.
Don't apologise to her, apologise to me.
I'm paying it back.
It's a misunderstanding.
He's.
.
! What are you paying it back with? You got no job 'cause you messed that up as well.
Home, now! Mother's in tears.
Come on! Hey! What's the matter with you?! Don't do that to me in front of her! What?! You're frightened she'll see you for what you really are? She's a decent girl from a decent family.
Why can't you leave her alone? Don't you dare call me a thief again.
Especially not in front of her.
There's only one McCann she's interested in and it isn't you.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) What are yous following me for? We like to know who we're dealing with.
We're interested in men like you.
Are yous now? What have I done that's so special? We've heard you talk.
We know what interests you politically.
We also know you were kicked out of the British Army for hitting your commanding officer.
I'm proud of that.
And we know you're out of work.
Who are yous? Can you keep your mouth shut? And what kind of an answer is that? It's a very serious question.
Because if the answer is no, then we're speaking to the wrong man.
I can keep my mouth shut.
What do you know about the Fenians? A Republican Brotherhood that believes in nationalism for Ireland.
Do you believe in the cause? I believe in a free Ireland.
It shouldn't belong to Britain.
Would you pick up arms? Against the Brits? It's possible, yes.
We're only looking for men who are serious and committed to the cause.
Well, I think yous have found one.
We'll be in touch.
You'll need to meet the leadership.
Remember what I said.
Keep your mouth shut.
(DEEP SIGH) You alright? Yes.
Sure? Yes, just me.
Sorry.
I'll see you soon.
Hey, boys.
I've got a new man for your squad.
This is Neil Sullivan.
He's a skilled rivetter.
You won't find me lacking, boys.
I'm a hard worker.
Michael McCann.
- Bill Armstrong.
- McCann? Another one from the wrong side of Belfast.
Beggars can't be choosers.
I've got plenty more who want this job.
Mate! Good luck.
Outside of this yard I don't know you.
Is that clear? Gentlemen, we have a larger problem than we thought.
I've written a report outlining my areas of concern.
When you say 'larger problem', Dr Muir, what exactly do you mean? It's in the way the ships are being built.
Now we can't do anything about the Olympic, but unless we make changes, this could have SERIOUS consequences for Titanic.
How serious? We found cracks in the steel plates of the Olympic.
Cracks in the plates are understandable.
It had been hit by another ship.
These cracks were found nowhere near the impact area.
Now, small cracks, so small that you can't see them, are caused when you cold punch the rivet holes in the steel plates.
Now, as you know, the shockwave of the collision is sent right the way down the length of the ship, with each weak point getting weaker and weaker and each crack getting wider as a result.
The collision between the HMS Hawke and the Olympic took place at low speed.
Imagine the consequences had they been in open seas at normal cruising speeds.
With the existing cracks in the steel plates, even a single violent blow at 21 knots could have severe repercussions well beyond the impact area.
You bring up truly valid issues, some of which I have raised with the Board.
Yet nothing has happened.
(FIRMLY) As I've told you .
.
it's the tale between the Engineer and the Accountant.
Yes, but my findings on the Olympic tell you the accountants are wrong.
So.
.
what do you suggest we do? Heat the steel plates before you punch the rivet holes.
It prevents the cracks forming, just as the Admiralty insists happens on all Navy ships.
We'd have to take the whole ship apart.
The Hawke only lost her prow.
Had no other significant damage.
That should tell you something.
Well, do you have a second option? 50 years ago, our friend Brunel built ships with two hulls.
A second hull within the first with watertight compartments in between.
We don't build double hull ships because we don't need to.
You know as well as I do, it simply costs too much.
Yes, and Brunel's Great Eastern was torn apart when it hit rocks and it did not sink, avoiding a financial and maritime disaster.
How much is the delay to the Olympic costing White Star? 250,000 pounds.
250? That's more than I thought.
I estimated 200,000 pounds.
Now the cost of a double hull is 375,000 pounds.
And God knows what it might save.
Perhaps the entire ship.
We live in a commercial world, Dr Muir.
Cunard doesn't build ships with a double hull.
But Cunard heat the steel plates before they punch rivet holes.
You do not.
They only do so in order to obtain a grant from the British government by adhering to Admiralty regulations.
White Star is an American company.
It doesn't have that luxury.
This isn't about luxury.
This is about sound engineering.
Andrews, you know about this ship.
Explain it to him.
Lord.
.
! T-Thank you, Dr Muir.
We need time to consider and digest your report.
You leave it with us and if we need anything clarified, we'll ask.
No, no, leave it.
I want to consider it all.
Thank you.
(DOOR OPENS) Michael McCann.
Bill Armstrong.
Neil Sutherland.
How are we supposed to survive on this? Derek Crozier.
Is he right? A double hull would be safer.
But the ships haven't been double hulled in the last 50 years.
And the rivets? To use these steel ones in the bow section would mean to get the furnaces closer to where they're working.
To keep them hot enough.
That's if we can find them.
We've got a hard enough time trying to find suppliers for the steel rivets we've got.
Plus the fact that Morgan and Ismay will refuse to pay.
But perhaps it's something we should invest in.
The board will fight you all the way.
You are prepared for that? We have to do something.
What? Go on the streets and have the Army on us? If that's what it takes.
We can't go on like this.
I'm not even paying the rent with this.
Why should we suffer because they've got a ship to prepare? Unskilled men are a liability.
Aye, they're also cheap.
They make us even cheaper.
But they need us.
Right now, with two ships in, we are very valuable.
Think how far behind schedule they'd be if we decided we'd had enough.
We'd just get the sack.
All of us? And bring in even more unskilled men? This is their pride and joy out there.
We have the power to make them do what we want.
But we have to act now.
All those in favour, raise your hands.
All those against? In which case, we withdraw our labour until our demands for fair play have been met.
Riveters of Harland & Wolff .
.
we're now on strike.
They want an increase in the amount per rivet.
The average riveter is earning about 36 schillings a week.
Since we've brought the unskilled men in, it's almost halved.
So our bringing in more men to repair Olympic has meant they suffer? Yes, it seems so.
We have been here before! You cannot give into blackmail! This is not blackmail! It's an industrial dispute.
It's tantamount to blackmail.
You should sack them all.
And what good will that do? All the skilled men will be outside the gates and all the unskilled inside.
We are building the biggest ship in the world.
Which is why we need them! Our manpower is stretched enough with Olympic needing repairs.
Each day we fall behind schedule costs us MORE than paying them their dues.
Sacking them? It's a false economy.
You don't spoil the ship for a ha'p'orth of tar.
If you give into their demands, you'll be sending a signal to every worker in this yard - in this city - that to strike is right! Has it ever occurred to you they may have a genuine grievance? (SCOFFS) Are you out of your mind, William? We've brought in labour that effectively means they earn less.
We set the terms and conditions.
They agreed to them.
(ANGRILY) THEY HAVE NO CHOICE! If you pay the riveter by the day, they have a reason to be slack.
Being paid by the rivet gives them an incentive to get the job done.
You have a responsibility to your shareholders.
(ANGRILY) AND I AM WELL AWARE OF THAT! I am equally aware of my responsibility to the workforce and their families.
I will strike a balance if I can.
I believe in profit AND protection of the workforce.
Not one before the other.
Well, nevertheless, I move that this Board vote, 'No negotiation shall take place'.
I'm off to work, Papa.
See you tonight.
(SIGHS) I hate what she does.
I really do.
At least both of yours are working.
You don't have one on strike and the other sitting at home doing nothing.
And eating you out of house and home.
I'd almost prefer she didn't work than work in a pub.
Times are changing, Pietro.
You've two fine, strong young women there.
You should be very proud.
I don't know.
I sometimes dream Marianna is looking down on me thinking I have failed.
No.
You've done a wonderful job.
All on your own.
I don't know a man who could've done any better.
Andrea is a good man with a good trade.
Sofia, she want to be happy.
Everybody wants.
No one is prepared to give.
You spend too much time on your own, Pietro.
We have lives to live, you know.
Besides, maybe wanting to be happy is not such a bad thing.
Life can be difficult.
At least happiness doesn't have to cost anything.
If they were serious about negotiating, they would've made contact with us already.
Our demands were clear and simple.
Why should we be penalised because the men they insist we work with can't do the job the way they want? (UNINTELLIGIBLE CHATTER) I know this is hard.
And I know you're coming under pressure from your families to return to work, but if we stand together on this, they WILL bow to our demands.
(CHEERING) (UNINTELLIGIBLE CHATTER) And we'll settle for nothing less.
(CHEERING) Walter would be so proud of you.
- Thanks.
- Thank you.
- Bye bye.
- Bye I might not be around as much.
Is there something wrong? No, no, just I might need to go away.
For how long? For a while.
But you got a job? No.
Yes.
Kind of.
Down south.
I just have to see if I'm up to it and if they want me.
What is it? I hate secrets.
It's Why is it you have to know everything? Look, all you have to know is that you're my girl.
Alright? (KNOCK AT THE DOOR) Ah, Muir.
We need to find a solution to this strike.
I believe you're just the man who can help me do it.
Me? I find myself between a rock and a hard place.
In the normal course of events, I would personally open talks with the riveters.
But the Board is adamant I can do no such thing.
But your history gives you a link to the men behind the strike.
But nobody knows about my history.
I thought we were gonna keep that confidential.
Absolutely agreed.
But others have noticed your sympathies.
I want to see if you can open up a channel through which I can talk.
Will I have to betray anyone's trust? No.
I give you my word, I will be as frank and open as I can be.
But the bottom line is I need YOU to talk to Michael McCann.
Mr.
Silvestri, milady.
Ah, Pietro.
Do come in.
- Come in.
- Thank you, milady.
What can I do for you? I wonder if I might beg a favour.
Oh.
My daughter Violeta What about her? Well, she was working at your husband's electrical company.
She was dismissed.
I ask as your humble servant if you may use your influence to What were the grounds for her dismissal? She behaved foolishly.
Went on the Larkin march.
Well Could she not get some other sort of work? She has got work In a public house.
It would almost be better to be destitute.
Or a lady of a night.
Besides My husband has very strong views on those who withdraw their labor and rabble-rouse with the Unions.
And I'm afraid I agree with him.
She was under a bad influence.
She's so young.
But my husband's company has rules.
Rules that have to be obeyed.
I know, milady.
I agree.
Allow me to offer you a word of advice, Pietro.
In this country, those who know their station and who obey the rules are those most likely to prosper.
Your daughter has now learned this the hard way.
I am very sorry for what has happened, but I do think it's fair.
She deserved her punishment.
- Maybe she did.
- Thank you.
I must tell you A lot of people in the city are angry.
What is that supposed to mean? Not all rules are fair.
Those that are not, are not worth following.
Good day, Lady Katherine.
Come away with me.
I'd love to.
Hmm-mmm.
Where would we go? Anywhere.
'Anywhere' sounds good.
When? Ahthat's the problem.
Well, some day it won't be a problem.
We can just go.
You and me.
Anywhere.
Alright? Yeah.
Can I ask you a favour? Sure.
Anything.
Can you get a message to Michael McCann for me? Lord Pirrie wants to speak to him about resolving the strike.
Why me? Well, because you know him, and Lord Pirrie needs to speak to him privately without his Board finding out.
Were you just buttering me up? (CHUCKLES) No! No.
Promise, I wasn't.
This is totally separate.
Okay? I will.
Thank you.
Let's walk.
What's wrong? I've one cup of oats, two grown men and you to feed.
They wait while we starve? This is what the fight is? Tomorrow there'll be no food at all.
Is this strike really can be won? I believe it can.
And Michael does too.
He's always a fighter, Michael.
Even when he was a baby.
We nearly lost him, you know.
When he was 6 months old.
The doctor said he'd surely die.
I just hold on to him.
Your da and I Just praying to God not to take him.
Then he just stopped crying.
.
And he looked upon me.
With his big blue eyes, shining.
He was a miracle for sure.
And now look at him.
Leading a strike, big and strong.
And we all starving.
Feed Michael first.
I'll go to Sofia, get us something to eat, Connor will look after himself.
They'll not break Michael.
He'll win.
Suigh sÃos.
('Sit down' in Irish) You come highly recommended.
Do I? We only want people who are committed to the cause of independence and who aren't afraid of the consequences.
Well, I can handle myself.
Is that why you joined the British Army? I joined the Army to get out of a place where I'm treated like a second class citizen in my own country, where I'm persecuted for my beliefs, where the man working next to me is paid more than me because I'm from a different part of town, and I've got a different surname.
That's why I joined the Army.
How did you find prison? It was worth it to watch a British sergeant's blood spill on my boot.
Can you use a gun? Fire it, dismantle it, clean it, reassemble it.
Yes.
Could you kill a man? It's what I was trained to do.
We need to raise money.
We negotiated the purchase of a cache of arms from a contact in Germany.
Well? I'm in.
Take the bible and the gun in your left hand.
Raise your right hand.
Repeat after me.
I warned you.
I said he wanted something off you, didn't I? I said it and this is it.
Soyou and Dr Muir? It's not what you think.
It's exactly what you think.
Emily.
So what's this message then? Lord Pirrie wants to meet you.
Privately.
Without anyone knowing.
It's a trap.
He wants to promise you something in private and deny it in public.
Why don't you trust anyone anymore? How can you even ask me that? My husband died because he believed and trusted too much and they betrayed him and shot him.
My trust died with Walter.
Alright.
I'll meet him.
When and where? (LAUGHTER AND CHATTER IN BACKGROUND) (INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC) Coat, sir.
Thank you.
Okay.
Thank you.
Evening.
(CHUCKLES) Um, there's Mark.
Let's say hello.
Excuse me.
Doctor Muir.
Kitty.
We've come to rescue you.
You look lost.
(CHUCKLES) I don't need any rescuing, thank you! And congratulations.
To both of you.
Thank you, Muir.
Mmmm.
Have you been introduced to Ashley's cousin? I hear she's very good at sport.
No, thank you.
I'm quite alright on my own.
Ashley.
Yes? Come here.
Excuse me.
You look very happy.
Well, it's a lie.
It told you, this is all part of the grand business arrangement.
As an only female child, Daddy needs someone to pass his money onto.
It is a nice ring, though.
You will keep in contact, won't you? No.
But thank you for the offer.
Who is she? Does it have to be somebody else? I can't imagine you're unattached.
My darling Kitty.
Can I whisk you away? You may whisk me anywhere, God- papa, with the exception of Aunt Edith's company.
(CHUCKLES) Will you excuse us? Yes.
Er, we've made contact.
Well done, Muir.
You will have Lord Pirrie's thanks.
It's not his thanks I'm looking for.
It's an answer.
Soare we going to double-hull Titanic? Perhaps when the riveters get back to work, he'll have more time.
.
! When the riveters are back, an answer will be even more important.
Muir, you continue to forget, I'm on your side.
But we must give it time.
How long? I don't know.
Come on.
Let's get you a drink.
This way.
Hello.
It's all here.
Let's see them.
Mauser rifles.
The German Army doesn't know they're missing.
No offence.
They're genuine.
I know.
I'm just showing you what'll happen if you try and cheat us.
(CHUCKLES) They're good.
(RINGS BELL) Thank you for coming.
No disrespect, but I was expecting the organ grinder, not the monkey.
Hmm.
He's on his way.
I'm just here to ensure fair play.
On both sides.
So you and Miss Silvestri know each other? That's correct.
You do right by her.
You have my word.
But like this meeting, for her sake, you'll keep what you know private.
(FOOTSTEPS) Mr McCann.
Thank you for meeting me.
I'll make this quick.
I fear that, to end this dispute, we both need to claim victory.
I believe we do.
But you know our demands.
And I think, deep down, you know that they are fair.
I wouldn't dispute that, but I have a shipyard to run with ships to build and ships to repair and to that end, I need something from you.
So I will guarantee your demands if, in return, you will guarantee that the riveters will train the unskilled men so that we can make up the backlog of work and deliver these ships to White Star on time.
And on budget.
You let me worry about the budget.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) (SIGHS) You gave in? On the contrary, I've gained an agreement that enables us to deliver on time.
The Board won't sanction the extra money.
They won't have to.
We're saving money by controlling the stock and raw materials we're ordering in advance.
It's called prudent housekeeping.
(SCOFFS) Others might call it a step too far.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) Lord Pirrie sends his personal thanks.
To me? You are Miss Silvestri, aren't you? Yes, I am! Then I have the right person.
My father is going to Derry this weekend.
To a job.
We can go away.
If you still want to.
Darling, I really don't care about politics.
It's quite the most tedious thing in the world, apart from religion.
I do hope you're not going to be like father and become obsessed by them both.
What I need is a drink, Ashley.
Sir Henry.
Ashley.
The coal miners in Wales have gone on strike.
Where will all this end? I hear they're sending in the Army.
Quite right.
By the way, I, uh, did some digging about our friend Dr Muir.
And what did you discover? Very interesting.
I don't know if the whole thing is completely bogus, but there's something not right about him.
Bogus? No, it can't be that.
One doesn't become as knowledgeable in his field by making the whole thing up.
I'm not following you, Ashley.
Well, it turns out that Imperial College, London, has never issued a doctorate to anyone called Mark Muir.
(FOOTSTEPS) I shall have to emigrate.
The rain ruins every pair of shoes I own.
Where's my drink, Ashley? Do they want to see me about my proposal, the double hull? No, I was just asked to return these to you.
- Any other message? - No.
Should there be? Going away, are we, Dr.
Muir? Dr.
Muir.
Lord Pirrie wants to see you.
When? Now.
Well, Muir, I've given some thought to your proposal and I agree with a double hull for Titanic.
However, it involves such an increase in costs that I can't make a unilateral decision.
I need the approval of the Board of Governors.
So I'm going to put it to them at our next meeting.
That's excellent news, sir.
Now we must examine everything in detail.
Do you have the time? Of course.
Good.
(SIGHS) I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
We can still make the train.
Alright? (SOFTLY) Okay.
Let's go.
If you could do anything in the world, what would you do? I'd design.
- Design? - Mm-hmm.
Design what? Things.
Beautiful things.
Functional, but but beautiful too.
- What? - Nothing.
What's wrong with that? Only you could think of something like that.
What do you dream of? Nothing.
That's not true.
It's true.
No, you're always dreaming at work.
I dream of perfection.
I've never seen it until I've met you.
I'm not perfect.
Good of you to come, Albert.
A pleasure, Sir Henry.
You know my son, Eddy? Lord Carlton.
Mmm-hmmm.
(DOOR CLOSES) My future son-in-law Ashley Stokes.
Well, please, er, sit.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Now, gentlemen, the government is in trouble and undoubtedly will seek a further mandate.
So, er, I would like you to consider standing for Parliament.
Me, Sir Henry? Well, I don't need to tell you how important this coming general election is for those of us on this side of the water.
There are some hidden agendas at work.
There is no doubt about that.
Indeed.
The Conservative and Unionist Party need a strong candidate.
Someone with forthright views who speaks the language of our people.
And we think that person is you.
Well, I'm flattered, of course.
(CHUCKLES) Unless we stick up for ourselves, we are in danger of being cut adrift by London.
And if the Liberals get in, so does Home Rule.
Exactly.
The unrest in the workforce is being manipulated.
If we Protestants are not careful, we'll find ourselves as a minority.
But be under no illusion, this election will be a very hard fight.
But aren't all elections, Sir Henry? Perhaps.
But this time they have support from some very powerful people.
But we, and Belfast, need you.
I would be deeply honoured.
Thank you.
Mother will be very excited.
Really? And how is your mother? A little flat since Dr Muir left us.
Did you say, 'Muir'? Papa, do you have.
.
! Oh! Did you say Muir? The scientist at the shipyard? Has he been lodging with you? Not any longer.
He moved out a while ago.
So you do know him quite well? (IRRITATED) What do you want, Kitty? Nothing.
It's alright.
He kept himself to himself.
Him and Mrs Hatton used to sit and talk.
He had some rather peculiar views in my opinion.
In what way? Politically.
Too sympathetic with the strikers and workers.
Catholic sympathies.
Eddy knows more about him.
Well, Eddy? Turns out Mr Muir was not what he told us he was in the first place.
Do go on, Eddy.
Do you know how long I've dreamed of this? No.
How long? I probably shouldn't say.
Might be a tad indelicate.
Indelicate? Hmm.
Why indelicate? You might be shocked to know all the wild imaginings I had buzzing around in my head.
(CHUCKLES) I wouldn't be shocked.
I had the same thoughts, it might surprise you to know.
(CHUCKLES) Reality is so much better, isn't it? (SIGHS) Yes.
(CHUCKLES) Yes.
Thank God for Derry and thank God your father is there.
Come here.
The train! I just don't see what any of this has got to do with the Board.
Dr Muir has raised some fundamental issues.
Surely it's THOSE we should be discussing.
This goes to the very heart of what this company stands for- the probity of its management and the accountability of its officers.
I ask you again, when Dr Muir was appointed, were his credentials examined? He came with a glowing reference from J P Morgan himself.
And the Royal Navy.
Dr Muir is very qualified.
Is he? Because a small amount of investigation would've led you to the fact that Imperial College have never awarded a doctorate to anyone called Mark Muir.
Either the man is a fraud or it is not his real name.
Isn't it rather premature to be discussing this man's proposals when his very credibility is in question? I have reason to believe the police have information about his identity.
I think the Board would appreciate your candour.
Then perhaps you know already that his name is Marcus Malone.
Thank you.
And he does have a doctorate at Imperial College.
In New York, he changed his name to Muir.
And, yes, he is a Catholic.
Exactly.
A man's religion should have no bearing on his ability and skill to do a job! (SCOFFS) He's committed no crime! On the contrary, I believe we have all been deceived.
Either by him or by you.
(ANGRILY) That is an outrageous allegation against me! Withdraw it immediately! But it is inconceivable, is it not, that a man of Muir's religious persuasion should hold a position of responsibility within this company? Five o'clock at the latest, please.
Thank you very much.
Doctor Muir.
(EXHALES) Lord Pirrie and Mr Andrews wish to see you.
Have they presented my ideas to the Board? I believe there was some kind of meeting, yes, 'Dr Muir'? Right.
Shall we? Come.
That will be all, Mr Hatton! Is this about my proposal? No, Dr Muir.
I'm afraid it's on another matter altogether.
What's that? The Board has decided that we are obliged to terminate your employment with this company.
Your true identity is now known.
We have no option.
I see.
Personally, I'm sorry.
I think you will be a great loss.
Well there's nothing more to be said.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) This is a very foolish decision.
And one that I'm sure we will regret.
I'm telling ya, he's a Catholic.
He spent all his time pretending he was a Protestant just so he could work here.
I told you, we can't trust the Catholics.
But you know what's worse? He left a girl pregnant to go to the mainland.
She died in the convent and he never came back for her.
(VERY LOW) He just abandoned her? Typical feckless Catholic.
(ANGRILY) How dare you! Why don't you join him? You're fired too! What about you, Sofia? You wanna join your friends?
I've never spent more than one hour with him.
What do you think he wants from you? Nothing.
Of course he does.
I don't understand what you mean.
Oh, Sofia, you weren't born yesterday.
Maybe he likes me.
Have you thought of that? Wait! When was the last time you saw him? Where does he go when he isn't with you? Is he married? Have you asked yourself any of these questions? No.
Well, maybe you should.
Have you seen Conor? No.
Why? I know where he'll be.
(DOOR OPENS) (DOOR CLOSES) What is it? What's happened? I just left some money on the dresser for food.
God know it wasn't much.
It was only sixpence.
And you think Conor took it? I don't know.
It was there.
He went out and it was gone.
He can't have.
He knows all we have are mine and Michael's wages.
You! You have some explaining to do.
What's the matter with you? Not here.
Not in front of Violetta.
You can say it here.
I have nothing to hide.
Fine! You're a thief.
You stole money from your own mother and you're spending it on drink.
(CHUCKLES) I didn't steal it, I borrowed it.
In the meantime, your family go hungry, is it? Sorry about this.
Don't apologise to her, apologise to me.
I'm paying it back.
It's a misunderstanding.
He's.
.
! What are you paying it back with? You got no job 'cause you messed that up as well.
Home, now! Mother's in tears.
Come on! Hey! What's the matter with you?! Don't do that to me in front of her! What?! You're frightened she'll see you for what you really are? She's a decent girl from a decent family.
Why can't you leave her alone? Don't you dare call me a thief again.
Especially not in front of her.
There's only one McCann she's interested in and it isn't you.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) What are yous following me for? We like to know who we're dealing with.
We're interested in men like you.
Are yous now? What have I done that's so special? We've heard you talk.
We know what interests you politically.
We also know you were kicked out of the British Army for hitting your commanding officer.
I'm proud of that.
And we know you're out of work.
Who are yous? Can you keep your mouth shut? And what kind of an answer is that? It's a very serious question.
Because if the answer is no, then we're speaking to the wrong man.
I can keep my mouth shut.
What do you know about the Fenians? A Republican Brotherhood that believes in nationalism for Ireland.
Do you believe in the cause? I believe in a free Ireland.
It shouldn't belong to Britain.
Would you pick up arms? Against the Brits? It's possible, yes.
We're only looking for men who are serious and committed to the cause.
Well, I think yous have found one.
We'll be in touch.
You'll need to meet the leadership.
Remember what I said.
Keep your mouth shut.
(DEEP SIGH) You alright? Yes.
Sure? Yes, just me.
Sorry.
I'll see you soon.
Hey, boys.
I've got a new man for your squad.
This is Neil Sullivan.
He's a skilled rivetter.
You won't find me lacking, boys.
I'm a hard worker.
Michael McCann.
- Bill Armstrong.
- McCann? Another one from the wrong side of Belfast.
Beggars can't be choosers.
I've got plenty more who want this job.
Mate! Good luck.
Outside of this yard I don't know you.
Is that clear? Gentlemen, we have a larger problem than we thought.
I've written a report outlining my areas of concern.
When you say 'larger problem', Dr Muir, what exactly do you mean? It's in the way the ships are being built.
Now we can't do anything about the Olympic, but unless we make changes, this could have SERIOUS consequences for Titanic.
How serious? We found cracks in the steel plates of the Olympic.
Cracks in the plates are understandable.
It had been hit by another ship.
These cracks were found nowhere near the impact area.
Now, small cracks, so small that you can't see them, are caused when you cold punch the rivet holes in the steel plates.
Now, as you know, the shockwave of the collision is sent right the way down the length of the ship, with each weak point getting weaker and weaker and each crack getting wider as a result.
The collision between the HMS Hawke and the Olympic took place at low speed.
Imagine the consequences had they been in open seas at normal cruising speeds.
With the existing cracks in the steel plates, even a single violent blow at 21 knots could have severe repercussions well beyond the impact area.
You bring up truly valid issues, some of which I have raised with the Board.
Yet nothing has happened.
(FIRMLY) As I've told you .
.
it's the tale between the Engineer and the Accountant.
Yes, but my findings on the Olympic tell you the accountants are wrong.
So.
.
what do you suggest we do? Heat the steel plates before you punch the rivet holes.
It prevents the cracks forming, just as the Admiralty insists happens on all Navy ships.
We'd have to take the whole ship apart.
The Hawke only lost her prow.
Had no other significant damage.
That should tell you something.
Well, do you have a second option? 50 years ago, our friend Brunel built ships with two hulls.
A second hull within the first with watertight compartments in between.
We don't build double hull ships because we don't need to.
You know as well as I do, it simply costs too much.
Yes, and Brunel's Great Eastern was torn apart when it hit rocks and it did not sink, avoiding a financial and maritime disaster.
How much is the delay to the Olympic costing White Star? 250,000 pounds.
250? That's more than I thought.
I estimated 200,000 pounds.
Now the cost of a double hull is 375,000 pounds.
And God knows what it might save.
Perhaps the entire ship.
We live in a commercial world, Dr Muir.
Cunard doesn't build ships with a double hull.
But Cunard heat the steel plates before they punch rivet holes.
You do not.
They only do so in order to obtain a grant from the British government by adhering to Admiralty regulations.
White Star is an American company.
It doesn't have that luxury.
This isn't about luxury.
This is about sound engineering.
Andrews, you know about this ship.
Explain it to him.
Lord.
.
! T-Thank you, Dr Muir.
We need time to consider and digest your report.
You leave it with us and if we need anything clarified, we'll ask.
No, no, leave it.
I want to consider it all.
Thank you.
(DOOR OPENS) Michael McCann.
Bill Armstrong.
Neil Sutherland.
How are we supposed to survive on this? Derek Crozier.
Is he right? A double hull would be safer.
But the ships haven't been double hulled in the last 50 years.
And the rivets? To use these steel ones in the bow section would mean to get the furnaces closer to where they're working.
To keep them hot enough.
That's if we can find them.
We've got a hard enough time trying to find suppliers for the steel rivets we've got.
Plus the fact that Morgan and Ismay will refuse to pay.
But perhaps it's something we should invest in.
The board will fight you all the way.
You are prepared for that? We have to do something.
What? Go on the streets and have the Army on us? If that's what it takes.
We can't go on like this.
I'm not even paying the rent with this.
Why should we suffer because they've got a ship to prepare? Unskilled men are a liability.
Aye, they're also cheap.
They make us even cheaper.
But they need us.
Right now, with two ships in, we are very valuable.
Think how far behind schedule they'd be if we decided we'd had enough.
We'd just get the sack.
All of us? And bring in even more unskilled men? This is their pride and joy out there.
We have the power to make them do what we want.
But we have to act now.
All those in favour, raise your hands.
All those against? In which case, we withdraw our labour until our demands for fair play have been met.
Riveters of Harland & Wolff .
.
we're now on strike.
They want an increase in the amount per rivet.
The average riveter is earning about 36 schillings a week.
Since we've brought the unskilled men in, it's almost halved.
So our bringing in more men to repair Olympic has meant they suffer? Yes, it seems so.
We have been here before! You cannot give into blackmail! This is not blackmail! It's an industrial dispute.
It's tantamount to blackmail.
You should sack them all.
And what good will that do? All the skilled men will be outside the gates and all the unskilled inside.
We are building the biggest ship in the world.
Which is why we need them! Our manpower is stretched enough with Olympic needing repairs.
Each day we fall behind schedule costs us MORE than paying them their dues.
Sacking them? It's a false economy.
You don't spoil the ship for a ha'p'orth of tar.
If you give into their demands, you'll be sending a signal to every worker in this yard - in this city - that to strike is right! Has it ever occurred to you they may have a genuine grievance? (SCOFFS) Are you out of your mind, William? We've brought in labour that effectively means they earn less.
We set the terms and conditions.
They agreed to them.
(ANGRILY) THEY HAVE NO CHOICE! If you pay the riveter by the day, they have a reason to be slack.
Being paid by the rivet gives them an incentive to get the job done.
You have a responsibility to your shareholders.
(ANGRILY) AND I AM WELL AWARE OF THAT! I am equally aware of my responsibility to the workforce and their families.
I will strike a balance if I can.
I believe in profit AND protection of the workforce.
Not one before the other.
Well, nevertheless, I move that this Board vote, 'No negotiation shall take place'.
I'm off to work, Papa.
See you tonight.
(SIGHS) I hate what she does.
I really do.
At least both of yours are working.
You don't have one on strike and the other sitting at home doing nothing.
And eating you out of house and home.
I'd almost prefer she didn't work than work in a pub.
Times are changing, Pietro.
You've two fine, strong young women there.
You should be very proud.
I don't know.
I sometimes dream Marianna is looking down on me thinking I have failed.
No.
You've done a wonderful job.
All on your own.
I don't know a man who could've done any better.
Andrea is a good man with a good trade.
Sofia, she want to be happy.
Everybody wants.
No one is prepared to give.
You spend too much time on your own, Pietro.
We have lives to live, you know.
Besides, maybe wanting to be happy is not such a bad thing.
Life can be difficult.
At least happiness doesn't have to cost anything.
If they were serious about negotiating, they would've made contact with us already.
Our demands were clear and simple.
Why should we be penalised because the men they insist we work with can't do the job the way they want? (UNINTELLIGIBLE CHATTER) I know this is hard.
And I know you're coming under pressure from your families to return to work, but if we stand together on this, they WILL bow to our demands.
(CHEERING) (UNINTELLIGIBLE CHATTER) And we'll settle for nothing less.
(CHEERING) Walter would be so proud of you.
- Thanks.
- Thank you.
- Bye bye.
- Bye I might not be around as much.
Is there something wrong? No, no, just I might need to go away.
For how long? For a while.
But you got a job? No.
Yes.
Kind of.
Down south.
I just have to see if I'm up to it and if they want me.
What is it? I hate secrets.
It's Why is it you have to know everything? Look, all you have to know is that you're my girl.
Alright? (KNOCK AT THE DOOR) Ah, Muir.
We need to find a solution to this strike.
I believe you're just the man who can help me do it.
Me? I find myself between a rock and a hard place.
In the normal course of events, I would personally open talks with the riveters.
But the Board is adamant I can do no such thing.
But your history gives you a link to the men behind the strike.
But nobody knows about my history.
I thought we were gonna keep that confidential.
Absolutely agreed.
But others have noticed your sympathies.
I want to see if you can open up a channel through which I can talk.
Will I have to betray anyone's trust? No.
I give you my word, I will be as frank and open as I can be.
But the bottom line is I need YOU to talk to Michael McCann.
Mr.
Silvestri, milady.
Ah, Pietro.
Do come in.
- Come in.
- Thank you, milady.
What can I do for you? I wonder if I might beg a favour.
Oh.
My daughter Violeta What about her? Well, she was working at your husband's electrical company.
She was dismissed.
I ask as your humble servant if you may use your influence to What were the grounds for her dismissal? She behaved foolishly.
Went on the Larkin march.
Well Could she not get some other sort of work? She has got work In a public house.
It would almost be better to be destitute.
Or a lady of a night.
Besides My husband has very strong views on those who withdraw their labor and rabble-rouse with the Unions.
And I'm afraid I agree with him.
She was under a bad influence.
She's so young.
But my husband's company has rules.
Rules that have to be obeyed.
I know, milady.
I agree.
Allow me to offer you a word of advice, Pietro.
In this country, those who know their station and who obey the rules are those most likely to prosper.
Your daughter has now learned this the hard way.
I am very sorry for what has happened, but I do think it's fair.
She deserved her punishment.
- Maybe she did.
- Thank you.
I must tell you A lot of people in the city are angry.
What is that supposed to mean? Not all rules are fair.
Those that are not, are not worth following.
Good day, Lady Katherine.
Come away with me.
I'd love to.
Hmm-mmm.
Where would we go? Anywhere.
'Anywhere' sounds good.
When? Ahthat's the problem.
Well, some day it won't be a problem.
We can just go.
You and me.
Anywhere.
Alright? Yeah.
Can I ask you a favour? Sure.
Anything.
Can you get a message to Michael McCann for me? Lord Pirrie wants to speak to him about resolving the strike.
Why me? Well, because you know him, and Lord Pirrie needs to speak to him privately without his Board finding out.
Were you just buttering me up? (CHUCKLES) No! No.
Promise, I wasn't.
This is totally separate.
Okay? I will.
Thank you.
Let's walk.
What's wrong? I've one cup of oats, two grown men and you to feed.
They wait while we starve? This is what the fight is? Tomorrow there'll be no food at all.
Is this strike really can be won? I believe it can.
And Michael does too.
He's always a fighter, Michael.
Even when he was a baby.
We nearly lost him, you know.
When he was 6 months old.
The doctor said he'd surely die.
I just hold on to him.
Your da and I Just praying to God not to take him.
Then he just stopped crying.
.
And he looked upon me.
With his big blue eyes, shining.
He was a miracle for sure.
And now look at him.
Leading a strike, big and strong.
And we all starving.
Feed Michael first.
I'll go to Sofia, get us something to eat, Connor will look after himself.
They'll not break Michael.
He'll win.
Suigh sÃos.
('Sit down' in Irish) You come highly recommended.
Do I? We only want people who are committed to the cause of independence and who aren't afraid of the consequences.
Well, I can handle myself.
Is that why you joined the British Army? I joined the Army to get out of a place where I'm treated like a second class citizen in my own country, where I'm persecuted for my beliefs, where the man working next to me is paid more than me because I'm from a different part of town, and I've got a different surname.
That's why I joined the Army.
How did you find prison? It was worth it to watch a British sergeant's blood spill on my boot.
Can you use a gun? Fire it, dismantle it, clean it, reassemble it.
Yes.
Could you kill a man? It's what I was trained to do.
We need to raise money.
We negotiated the purchase of a cache of arms from a contact in Germany.
Well? I'm in.
Take the bible and the gun in your left hand.
Raise your right hand.
Repeat after me.
I warned you.
I said he wanted something off you, didn't I? I said it and this is it.
Soyou and Dr Muir? It's not what you think.
It's exactly what you think.
Emily.
So what's this message then? Lord Pirrie wants to meet you.
Privately.
Without anyone knowing.
It's a trap.
He wants to promise you something in private and deny it in public.
Why don't you trust anyone anymore? How can you even ask me that? My husband died because he believed and trusted too much and they betrayed him and shot him.
My trust died with Walter.
Alright.
I'll meet him.
When and where? (LAUGHTER AND CHATTER IN BACKGROUND) (INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC) Coat, sir.
Thank you.
Okay.
Thank you.
Evening.
(CHUCKLES) Um, there's Mark.
Let's say hello.
Excuse me.
Doctor Muir.
Kitty.
We've come to rescue you.
You look lost.
(CHUCKLES) I don't need any rescuing, thank you! And congratulations.
To both of you.
Thank you, Muir.
Mmmm.
Have you been introduced to Ashley's cousin? I hear she's very good at sport.
No, thank you.
I'm quite alright on my own.
Ashley.
Yes? Come here.
Excuse me.
You look very happy.
Well, it's a lie.
It told you, this is all part of the grand business arrangement.
As an only female child, Daddy needs someone to pass his money onto.
It is a nice ring, though.
You will keep in contact, won't you? No.
But thank you for the offer.
Who is she? Does it have to be somebody else? I can't imagine you're unattached.
My darling Kitty.
Can I whisk you away? You may whisk me anywhere, God- papa, with the exception of Aunt Edith's company.
(CHUCKLES) Will you excuse us? Yes.
Er, we've made contact.
Well done, Muir.
You will have Lord Pirrie's thanks.
It's not his thanks I'm looking for.
It's an answer.
Soare we going to double-hull Titanic? Perhaps when the riveters get back to work, he'll have more time.
.
! When the riveters are back, an answer will be even more important.
Muir, you continue to forget, I'm on your side.
But we must give it time.
How long? I don't know.
Come on.
Let's get you a drink.
This way.
Hello.
It's all here.
Let's see them.
Mauser rifles.
The German Army doesn't know they're missing.
No offence.
They're genuine.
I know.
I'm just showing you what'll happen if you try and cheat us.
(CHUCKLES) They're good.
(RINGS BELL) Thank you for coming.
No disrespect, but I was expecting the organ grinder, not the monkey.
Hmm.
He's on his way.
I'm just here to ensure fair play.
On both sides.
So you and Miss Silvestri know each other? That's correct.
You do right by her.
You have my word.
But like this meeting, for her sake, you'll keep what you know private.
(FOOTSTEPS) Mr McCann.
Thank you for meeting me.
I'll make this quick.
I fear that, to end this dispute, we both need to claim victory.
I believe we do.
But you know our demands.
And I think, deep down, you know that they are fair.
I wouldn't dispute that, but I have a shipyard to run with ships to build and ships to repair and to that end, I need something from you.
So I will guarantee your demands if, in return, you will guarantee that the riveters will train the unskilled men so that we can make up the backlog of work and deliver these ships to White Star on time.
And on budget.
You let me worry about the budget.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) (SIGHS) You gave in? On the contrary, I've gained an agreement that enables us to deliver on time.
The Board won't sanction the extra money.
They won't have to.
We're saving money by controlling the stock and raw materials we're ordering in advance.
It's called prudent housekeeping.
(SCOFFS) Others might call it a step too far.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) Lord Pirrie sends his personal thanks.
To me? You are Miss Silvestri, aren't you? Yes, I am! Then I have the right person.
My father is going to Derry this weekend.
To a job.
We can go away.
If you still want to.
Darling, I really don't care about politics.
It's quite the most tedious thing in the world, apart from religion.
I do hope you're not going to be like father and become obsessed by them both.
What I need is a drink, Ashley.
Sir Henry.
Ashley.
The coal miners in Wales have gone on strike.
Where will all this end? I hear they're sending in the Army.
Quite right.
By the way, I, uh, did some digging about our friend Dr Muir.
And what did you discover? Very interesting.
I don't know if the whole thing is completely bogus, but there's something not right about him.
Bogus? No, it can't be that.
One doesn't become as knowledgeable in his field by making the whole thing up.
I'm not following you, Ashley.
Well, it turns out that Imperial College, London, has never issued a doctorate to anyone called Mark Muir.
(FOOTSTEPS) I shall have to emigrate.
The rain ruins every pair of shoes I own.
Where's my drink, Ashley? Do they want to see me about my proposal, the double hull? No, I was just asked to return these to you.
- Any other message? - No.
Should there be? Going away, are we, Dr.
Muir? Dr.
Muir.
Lord Pirrie wants to see you.
When? Now.
Well, Muir, I've given some thought to your proposal and I agree with a double hull for Titanic.
However, it involves such an increase in costs that I can't make a unilateral decision.
I need the approval of the Board of Governors.
So I'm going to put it to them at our next meeting.
That's excellent news, sir.
Now we must examine everything in detail.
Do you have the time? Of course.
Good.
(SIGHS) I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
We can still make the train.
Alright? (SOFTLY) Okay.
Let's go.
If you could do anything in the world, what would you do? I'd design.
- Design? - Mm-hmm.
Design what? Things.
Beautiful things.
Functional, but but beautiful too.
- What? - Nothing.
What's wrong with that? Only you could think of something like that.
What do you dream of? Nothing.
That's not true.
It's true.
No, you're always dreaming at work.
I dream of perfection.
I've never seen it until I've met you.
I'm not perfect.
Good of you to come, Albert.
A pleasure, Sir Henry.
You know my son, Eddy? Lord Carlton.
Mmm-hmmm.
(DOOR CLOSES) My future son-in-law Ashley Stokes.
Well, please, er, sit.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Now, gentlemen, the government is in trouble and undoubtedly will seek a further mandate.
So, er, I would like you to consider standing for Parliament.
Me, Sir Henry? Well, I don't need to tell you how important this coming general election is for those of us on this side of the water.
There are some hidden agendas at work.
There is no doubt about that.
Indeed.
The Conservative and Unionist Party need a strong candidate.
Someone with forthright views who speaks the language of our people.
And we think that person is you.
Well, I'm flattered, of course.
(CHUCKLES) Unless we stick up for ourselves, we are in danger of being cut adrift by London.
And if the Liberals get in, so does Home Rule.
Exactly.
The unrest in the workforce is being manipulated.
If we Protestants are not careful, we'll find ourselves as a minority.
But be under no illusion, this election will be a very hard fight.
But aren't all elections, Sir Henry? Perhaps.
But this time they have support from some very powerful people.
But we, and Belfast, need you.
I would be deeply honoured.
Thank you.
Mother will be very excited.
Really? And how is your mother? A little flat since Dr Muir left us.
Did you say, 'Muir'? Papa, do you have.
.
! Oh! Did you say Muir? The scientist at the shipyard? Has he been lodging with you? Not any longer.
He moved out a while ago.
So you do know him quite well? (IRRITATED) What do you want, Kitty? Nothing.
It's alright.
He kept himself to himself.
Him and Mrs Hatton used to sit and talk.
He had some rather peculiar views in my opinion.
In what way? Politically.
Too sympathetic with the strikers and workers.
Catholic sympathies.
Eddy knows more about him.
Well, Eddy? Turns out Mr Muir was not what he told us he was in the first place.
Do go on, Eddy.
Do you know how long I've dreamed of this? No.
How long? I probably shouldn't say.
Might be a tad indelicate.
Indelicate? Hmm.
Why indelicate? You might be shocked to know all the wild imaginings I had buzzing around in my head.
(CHUCKLES) I wouldn't be shocked.
I had the same thoughts, it might surprise you to know.
(CHUCKLES) Reality is so much better, isn't it? (SIGHS) Yes.
(CHUCKLES) Yes.
Thank God for Derry and thank God your father is there.
Come here.
The train! I just don't see what any of this has got to do with the Board.
Dr Muir has raised some fundamental issues.
Surely it's THOSE we should be discussing.
This goes to the very heart of what this company stands for- the probity of its management and the accountability of its officers.
I ask you again, when Dr Muir was appointed, were his credentials examined? He came with a glowing reference from J P Morgan himself.
And the Royal Navy.
Dr Muir is very qualified.
Is he? Because a small amount of investigation would've led you to the fact that Imperial College have never awarded a doctorate to anyone called Mark Muir.
Either the man is a fraud or it is not his real name.
Isn't it rather premature to be discussing this man's proposals when his very credibility is in question? I have reason to believe the police have information about his identity.
I think the Board would appreciate your candour.
Then perhaps you know already that his name is Marcus Malone.
Thank you.
And he does have a doctorate at Imperial College.
In New York, he changed his name to Muir.
And, yes, he is a Catholic.
Exactly.
A man's religion should have no bearing on his ability and skill to do a job! (SCOFFS) He's committed no crime! On the contrary, I believe we have all been deceived.
Either by him or by you.
(ANGRILY) That is an outrageous allegation against me! Withdraw it immediately! But it is inconceivable, is it not, that a man of Muir's religious persuasion should hold a position of responsibility within this company? Five o'clock at the latest, please.
Thank you very much.
Doctor Muir.
(EXHALES) Lord Pirrie and Mr Andrews wish to see you.
Have they presented my ideas to the Board? I believe there was some kind of meeting, yes, 'Dr Muir'? Right.
Shall we? Come.
That will be all, Mr Hatton! Is this about my proposal? No, Dr Muir.
I'm afraid it's on another matter altogether.
What's that? The Board has decided that we are obliged to terminate your employment with this company.
Your true identity is now known.
We have no option.
I see.
Personally, I'm sorry.
I think you will be a great loss.
Well there's nothing more to be said.
(DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) This is a very foolish decision.
And one that I'm sure we will regret.
I'm telling ya, he's a Catholic.
He spent all his time pretending he was a Protestant just so he could work here.
I told you, we can't trust the Catholics.
But you know what's worse? He left a girl pregnant to go to the mainland.
She died in the convent and he never came back for her.
(VERY LOW) He just abandoned her? Typical feckless Catholic.
(ANGRILY) How dare you! Why don't you join him? You're fired too! What about you, Sofia? You wanna join your friends?