North and South s02e01 Episode Script

Lieutenant Freeman? Mrs.
Hazard, ma'am, how are you? Just fine.
Have you seen my husband? He left an hour ago.
He's positioning a battery over by the Rock Creek area.
Thank you.
Do you really think the Southern army will invade Washington? Well, with the Rebs Excuse me, ma'am, the Southern army only 20 miles away Well, better to be safe than sorry.
But I'm sure your husband knows more about a possible battle now that he has his transfer to the sharpshooters.
Sharpshooters? I'm sorry, ma'am.
I thought you knew.
No, I Thank you, sir, for the information.
Why don't you let me get you an escort.
I can find my way, lieutenant.
Thank you.
Little Miss Molasses with her darky.
What you hear from Jeffie Davis, honey child? Something wrong with your hearing, Reb? We don't want any trouble.
Please just leave us alone.
Why don't you tell that to your people that attacked our troops coming through Baltimore.
- Take your hands off that bridle.
We're white men.
You can't talk to us like that.
You're talking to us like we're slaves.
Giddap! Primary field of fire, all four guns, is across the river.
Georgetown to the Chain Bridge.
The secondary position will be to cover the northern approaches.
I'm looking for my husband, Lieutenant Hazard.
Thank you, sir.
Excuse me, sergeant.
Brett! Billy! I got a transfer.
I'm gonna be in the 1 st U.
S.
Sharpshooters.
It's a new regimen just authorized by Congress.
I didn't want to tell you until it came through.
Isn't it great? You'll be in the thick of the fighting.
Why couldn't you stay with the engineers? Brett, I'm a soldier.
Soldiers are supposed to fight.
Our ancestors fought so the U.
S.
Could be free.
I could make history.
By killing Southerners? I didn't mean your family.
I know a lot of Southerners love the Union and don't want war.
But they're gonna fight for the Confederacy.
Good people will be killed.
Is that the kind of history you want to make? It's gonna be all right.
Everybody says the war will be over in one big battle.
When I leave for camp, go to Belvedere and stay with my mother.
What about Semiramis? I'll make arrangements for her to get safely to Mont Royal.
Why are we fighting? Because you never told me any of this, Billy.
I don't want anything to happen to you.
If I'm to believe the Charleston recruiting officer I'd better ride day and night to reach Virginia before the war's over.
- It won't be that easy, Charles.
- Most of us were born on horseback.
We'll ride circles around those Yankees.
There's three of them to every one of us.
I'll take those odds any day.
It's a shame you gotta rub shoulders with the president of the Confederacy instead of riding with Wade Hampton's Legion.
Orry I'm gonna miss you.
You're a lot more than a cousin to me, Charles.
You're like a little brother.
So I don't want you taking any unnecessary chances.
- You know me.
- That's what worries me.
Charles reminds me so much of Orry when he went off to fight in Mexico.
He came back from that war.
And they'll come back from this one.
I can't believe what happened.
Our dearest friends, the Hazards.
Billy, my son-in-law - Torn apart by war.
- Maybe it won't last very long.
I do hope so, my dear.
The two handsomest men in the Confederacy.
You even make those uniforms look good.
Watch out, Aunt Clarissa! I may take you with me.
I can't live without your corn bread.
Dear Charles.
I'm not ready to say goodbye.
I never wanted this war.
But we'd be without pride and honor if we let the North tell us how to live.
There are things worth fighting for, Madeline, this land our families, our way of life And you.
I can't wait till you become Mrs.
Orry Main.
And once your divorce is final I'll get you to a preacher quicker than you can say, "I do.
" I do.
Sport, the war will be over before that general gets through saying goodbye.
Charles can't wait to get on the road now that he's heard Virginia belles outshine even our South Carolina beauties.
Mother.
You take care of yourself.
Oh, Orry, I promised myself I wouldn't cry.
Now There'll be no time for tears.
You'll be too busy running this plantation.
There's a war waiting on us.
Time's a-wasting.
Cuffey.
Don't worry, Mr.
Orry.
I'll take care of everything.
I know you will.
Race you to the war! Take care, Charles.
I must say, gentlemen, I consider this a great honor, and I thank you.
You do us the honor, Mr.
LaMotte, accepting your commission.
All of us on the militia general staff feel your qualifications make you an ideal colonel to turn our green volunteers into soldiers to defend South Carolina.
I shall start recruiting in my district immediately, sir.
May I tell you how much we've enjoyed your hospitality Colonel LaMotte, although I must say I did miss seeing your lovely wife.
Is Mrs.
LaMotte ailing? Mrs.
LaMotte is no longer residing at Resolute.
You'll have to forgive Mr.
Clay.
He's been in legislature at Columbia since the Fort Sumter crisis and wasn't aware of your domestic situation.
My domestic situation is of no concern to anyone, sir.
Gentlemen, good day.
Good day, sir.
Well, sure and you're a fine figure of a man, George Hazard.
You look as handsome in that uniform as you did the first night we danced together in Mexico.
After the Mexican War, I swore I'd never wear a uniform again.
But I just can't sit here in Lehigh Station while the country's being torn in half.
I agree with the president.
The Union must be preserved.
But regulations or not they'll have to court-martial me before I wear this ridiculous hat.
Even I'd have to think twice before wearing that thing.
I shouldn't be going to Washington.
I should have requested a field command.
Now, George, the president wants you on his staff.
Not just because you're a West Pointer.
It's because he knows an exceptional man, just as I do.
My brother's close to Lincoln, and he feels the president will mobilize us and not just the military, but the private sector too.
That includes Hazard Iron Isabel, I hope we're doing the right thing.
There is a war on.
A party like this might be in bad taste.
We're just celebrating the departure of our very own hero.
After all, we're the most prominent family in this part of the state.
People will see it as our patriotic duty.
I'm not sure how happy George is with all this fanfare.
The army's best officers have resigned and gone south, which they'll regret.
Because the Confederate cause may already be lost.
Those of us who run important companies create the engine that'll power the Union to quick victory.
As a matter of fact, I've already drawn up plans I'm afraid you're going to have to be the colonel.
Thank you very much, but I haven't done anything yet to deserve this.
I'd like to think that this is not only for those of us who are going off to war but for those who've already left including my younger brother, Lt.
William Hazard and especially for those who are staying here at home working for the Union cause with the same dedication and spirit.
Including my eldest brother, Stanley, who will run Hazard Iron in my absence.
Thank you very much.
- We have confidence in you, Stanley.
- Thank you, George.
- You'll do a great job.
Good luck.
- Thank you.
All of this makes me know you really are going to leave us.
I'm going to miss you both so much.
- Your guests are eager to meet you.
- Thank you, Isabel.
Mother.
Don't let sentiment interfere with our plans, my darling.
Now isn't just a chance to profit from this foolish war but for you to be the man you've always wanted to be.
General.
President Davis is waiting.
Mr.
President, I appreciate your sentiments but we simply cannot afford to temporize.
The North will strangle the South if we do.
Excuse me.
I was told to join you Indeed, sir.
Gentlemen, Brigadier General Orry Main.
General Robert E.
Lee, my military adviser, and members of my Cabinet.
Our agents in the federal capital have shown us how the North plans to crush us in the coils of a giant water snake.
That is precisely the situation, sir.
All down the Eastern seaboard to the Florida Keys then along the gulf to New Orleans.
Their navy would seal off the Confederacy.
They will send their western army south to secure the Border States.
- And cut the Confederacy in two.
- Never.
Never.
But it would be daring.
They could squeeze us to death by cutting off our supplies and weapons from Texas, the ports of Mexico and Europe.
Scott, their general in chief and a Virginian opposed this far-fetched strategy.
The man is a traitor to the South.
To be a Southerner and believe in the Union does not make one a traitor, sir or I would not be here.
I realize you turned down Lincoln's offer to command the Yankee armies but I had no idea - Mr.
President I believe secession is unconstitutional and slavery is a moral and political evil in any society.
Then why have you joined us? Because I could not draw my sword against Virginia.
My loyalty and my affections and those of my family for five generations belong to her.
That is why I'm here, sir.
Now, if we are to have any chance at all to defeat the North we must enlist our own snake and strike like a cobra, right at their vitals.
- The federal capital of Washington - Sir, I do not agree with you! Many of our state militias would refuse to join an invasion of the North.
Mr.
President, if you allow the individual states to dictate our Lincoln maneuvered us into firing the first shot at Fort Sumter.
I'll not let him brand me the aggressor again.
Next time, the North will be the first to fire! Enough for today, gentlemen.
General Main? You must be wondering why I summoned you here.
- To be honest, sir, yes.
- Your cotton mill in South Carolina was one of the first in the South and very successful.
We showed excellent profit, but now the mill is producing war materials.
My partner and I had to liquidate, as he's from Pennsylvania.
That's another tragedy in all this: The destruction of old and dear friendships.
George and I hope to continue that friendship someday, sir.
Son My government desperately needs your expertise.
I needn't tell you how few factories we have in the South.
- And the shortage of raw materials - I know, sir.
I know.
That's why I need you.
To make our war machine as efficient as possible.
I'll do my best.
You have my word.
That's all any of us can do.
The Union has a substantial force here, beyond the Blue Ridge Mountains 60 miles to the west of their capital.
So we've had to post 11,000 of our men to stop them from invading the Shenandoah Valley.
Now the main Yankee army is massing here, outside Washington.
Looks like they'll drive through eastern Virginia.
That's probably where we'll have to fight them.
Captain Main, ride north of Centerville.
See how big a force they have, and if they appear ready to move south.
Don't take risks trying to take a prisoner.
I need information not dead scouts.
- Yes, sir.
- Good luck, captain.
Oh, that's just fine, corporal.
- A haircut? - A trim.
Just because there's a war on doesn't mean we stop being gentlemen.
- Thank you, corporal.
- Ambrose, you never cease to amaze me.
Well, thank you, Charles.
Come on.
I need a volunteer, and you're it.
A volunteer.
Yankees.
Stay off to the woods.
Maybe we can lose them.
It's a woman.
We got enough trouble without borrowing more.
Took you long enough to decide to help me.
Might at least say thank you.
Just get me out of this mess.
I gotta get these medicines through to your troops.
I'll take her.
You detour the Yankees.
- We'll meet at the fork near the river.
- I see rank has certain privileges.
Boys! Back! I can take care of myself, captain.
I'm sure you can.
- About time you got here.
- Those Yankees could double back.
Last time I saw them they were chasing their tails.
My farm's a few miles up the road.
Let's not sit here.
That does it.
You could show us a little gratitude.
I'm sorry.
Augusta Barclay, captain.
Charles Main.
- Ambrose Pell.
- I am grateful, more than you know.
I've been smuggling quinine and morphine from Union hospitals.
If they'd caught me Couldn't let anything happen to a Virginia belle, could we? We'll see you get home safely, ma'am.
Hello! Ma'am, we were worried about you.
I ran into these officers on the road, and I must say, I'm awful glad I did.
Captain Main, Lieutenant Pell, this is Washington and his son, Boz.
We'll see to your horses.
- We'd best be on our way.
- Let me offer you some supper.
It's the least I can do.
- Thanks, but - We'd be honored to accept your offer.
A man has to eat, and I have a feeling the lady's cooking's better than yours.
I'm not fighting for the South if it means keeping slavery.
I'm fighting for the place where I live.
That's why most of the men joined up.
Sometimes I wonder if Mr.
Davis understands that.
- I think he does, deep down.
- Like you? I don't believe in this war.
Just doing what I can to make things easier for those who have to fight it.
Yes Thank you for the fine meal, ma'am, but we have to leave.
I want to reach the Yankee encampments before morning.
Well, I'll get the horses.
Excuse me, ma'am.
Does your husband object to the work you're doing? It seems a bit dangerous.
My husband died a few years ago.
He was a good man.
Older than me.
Learned a great deal from him.
Sounds like you really miss him.
With all the work there is to do, and my other activities there's not much time to be lonely.
Thank you again, Mrs.
Barclay.
It's Augusta, captain.
- Good luck.
- Goodbye.
- Take care of yourself, Washington.
- Goodbye, captain.
- Thank you very much, ma'am.
- Goodbye, Boz.
Captain, lieutenant.
That is some kind of lady.
Good night.
Mrs.
Grady? I'm sorry to keep you waiting so long.
I had difficulty finding your letter of application.
I sent it when I first heard about the nursing corps.
I have many skills, and I can learn others very quickly.
- I'm afraid there's more to it than that.
- I don't understand.
Sit, please.
Mary? We make it a point to find out as much as possible about the women who apply to us.
Perhaps you've heard that Mrs.
Dix is quite concerned that we don't attract well, the wrong sort of woman.
Are you saying that I'm the wrong sort of woman? Let me be direct, Mrs.
Grady.
We've learned you spent three months in an asylum for the insane.
That was after my husband's death.
That doesn't mean I'm crazy.
Nursing in wartime is difficult and dangerous work.
There'll be hideous suffering and death.
We can't send a nurse who might break under the strain.
My husband was murdered at Harpers Ferry.
Surely you can understand the grief of a woman.
Even if others consider it madness.
There is also the matter of your abolitionist views.
- Some of your causes, we just - Such as marrying a Negro? That was not a cause, Mrs.
Reilly.
That was love.
Your marriage has nothing to do with this.
I'm sorry, but I must reject your letter of application.
Then I must inform you I have highly placed friends in the government.
I'm afraid this isn't a matter of personal influence.
You and Mrs.
Dix have not seen the last of me.
I promise you that, Mrs.
Reilly.
We were married in such a hurry, I never had time to get your ring engraved.
"Forever.
" I think that calls for a toast.
Yes.
To the Hazards.
And the Mains.
May God keep our families safe and bring us together when this is all through.
Hear, hear.
Isn't that your family at the far end? Yes, it is.
Could we please find our table? - Who's she with? - Sam Greene.
He's a congressman.
Constance, that dress.
Isn't it your Worth gown? Yes.
Virgilia liked it so much that I gave it to her.
Excuse me.
That's all right, don't get up.
I just wanna say goodbye to my sister.
I leave in the morning, Virgilia.
I may not see you until the war's over.
I just want to wish you all the best.
Billy.
Take care of yourself.
One member of the Hazard family seems to care about you.
I prefer not to discuss my family.
We have more important things to discuss.
I have missed seeing you.
Why did you wait so long to tell me you were in Washington? Because I wasn't ready to see you yet.
And now you are? I need your help again, Sam.
I want to be a nurse.
It seems to be the only way a woman can fight this war.
And I've run into difficulty that I didn't plan on.
Why? You're certainly charming enough.
I can attest to that.
Dorothea Dix sets very high standards for her nursing corps.
And charm doesn't seem to be a prerequisite.
I know that a number of women have been turned down, but I haven't even gotten past her aide, Sam.
Why? Thank you.
What's the problem? Have you forgotten that I was in an asylum? Her aides found out about it.
And you want me to talk to Mrs.
Dix on your behalf.
Would you, please, Sam? Well Sam, your recommendation would override anything her staff might say.
And you could explain to her My reward will be? My friendship and support, as always.
You never fail to amaze me.
You could ask for the moon and not even offer a kiss in return.
So does this mean you'll help me? Yes.
Why, George.
What a surprise.
I doubt that, since you saw me earlier this evening.
Was that you? I did see a man in a uniform that looked a lot like you.
But then I thought, "No, George would never take up arms against his beloved Southern friends.
" You haven't changed, have you? A constant in this time of change.
Why are you here, George? Did your wife send you? What are you doing in Washington? Do you really care? I want Sam Greene to help me get into the nursing corps.
Why didn't you see me first? - Oh, George, don't patronize me.
- I'm not.
I've been concerned about you.
Well, I'm fine.
At least let me loan you money so you can find a decent place to live.
You might have shown such brotherly concern when Grady was alive.
I'm sorry your husband was killed, but nobody in our family's to blame.
We're not a family, George, we never have been.
We were close when we were younger.
I'm not sure how or why that changed.
When I began to think for myself which is something women aren't supposed to do.
It amazed me.
Everyone would listen to Stanley's most ridiculous ideas but no one cared to hear what I might think.
Do you know how that feels, George? To spend your life becoming educated only to be overlooked because you're not male? I've always been interested in what you had to say.
The only opinion you wanted to hear was your own.
Oh, George! You, of all people, should've seen what I was trying to do.
You dismissed me like the rest.
"An abolitionist fanatic.
" You moderates still don't hear the drums.
You say all you want to do is preserve the Union, that slavery isn't the issue.
- And I say it's the only issue, George.
- I despise slavery as much as you do but I'm not here to argue right or wrong or anything else! I am here because you are my sister! I care about you! And to let you know your family's there if you need them! Is that so difficult to understand?! Is it so hard for you to understand that I just want to be alone? Virgilia, we can't change what is past.
- But we can make a new beginning.
- No.
It was too late for that a long time ago.
- Virgilia.
- Lf you'll excuse me, I'd like to turn in.
Give my regards to Constance.
If you ever need me you know how to find me.
Don't hang too close to me tonight, James.
You'll meet more people if you don't monopolize my time.
You seem to have damn little of that for me, in public or private.
It's for your own good, James.
A loyal wife always helps her husband's career.
And tonight's the perfect opportunity.
Imagine! You and me at a party given by Jefferson Davis.
Davis is bound to recognize my vision and courage and realize he needs me in the war effort.
Flattery, James.
All men like flattery.
Use whatever charm you can muster.
Stop treating me like a child.
My views are my strength.
Being a clerk to the first assistant in the treasury? It's not good enough for you.
I want more for you.
Much more.
For me? Or for yourself? Isn't it all one and the same? Excuse me, but I must ask Mrs.
Davis where she got that simply interesting dress.
Mr.
Huntoon, in time of war a central government must enforce stern measures necessary to our military operation such as the use of slaves as laborers, regardless of its unpopularity.
Then I submit, with all due respect to yourself and to your office that it must not happen.
Only the sovereign states can decide policy.
If they are forced to surrender freedom to a central power why, we'd be like that circus in Washington.
May I remind you, sir, that I am charged with making this new nation strong and successful.
We must have a central government stronger than its separate parts.
- Never! The states will not tolerate it.
If that be so, Mr.
Huntoon then the Confederacy will not last out the year.
You can have independent states, or you can have a strong new nation.
You cannot have both! A choice must be made.
It is my choice not to be party ever to autocratic ways! Furthermore If you'll excuse me, Mr.
Huntoon.
Well done, James.
He's afraid to argue political philosophy because he knows he's wrong.
James! Ashton Don't "Ashton" me! I heard everything.
Is that flattery to you? Arguing with the most important man in government? He behaves like a dictator.
I have a strong conviction To hell with your conviction! You probably ended your political career just now.
That is, if you ever really had one! Glass of champagne, please.
I simply can't abide punch that's lost its potency.
Good evening, Mr.
Huntoon.
Good evening, sir.
I'm afraid you have the advantage.
Have we met before? Well, I'm not surprised you don't remember me.
The last time I saw you I was wearing the uniform of a major in the Union army.
- In New Orleans, after my speech.
- Precisely.
After which we adjourned to Madam Conti's house where we enjoyed the favors of certain ladies.
- Yes, of course You told me you could not serve the Union.
But if Jeff Davis were elected, you'd not serve him either.
As you can see, I'm still a man of my word.
And you, sir, are still a man of vision.
Thank you.
I appreciate your graciousness.
Not at all.
I overheard your discussion with that arrogant jackass.
You were completely justified in what you said to him.
I'm afraid my wife doesn't share your opinion.
Well, she certainly is beautiful.
Which probably means you'll have to forgive her.
Come, then.
Let me introduce you to her.
Well I'd love to, sir.
But business before the pleasure of meeting your wife.
If you will.
I confess I have a particular reason for wishing to renew your acquaintance.
To come to the point, Mr.
Huntoon, I'm organizing a small group of men.
Men of vision and stature like yourself to finance a confidential venture that I guarantee will provide incredible profit.
- You mean some kind of investment? - A maritime investment, sir.
You see, I think the Yankee blockade provides a golden opportunity for men of the will and wherewithal.
- You're suggesting running the blockade? - Yes, I am.
I already have an interest in one ship.
And I've just located a very fast steamer called the Water Witch.
Now she can be refitted in Liverpool to suit our purposes, at a fair price.
Your share of the profits will be equal to your share of the investment.
The Confederacy will need more arms and ammunition.
Sir, I'm referring to luxuries.
Luxuries are where the money is.
Of course, the danger to the ship is tremendous.
So, what we are looking for is the short term, Mr.
Huntoon, not the long term.
But with the right cargo only two successful runs will bring in a profit of 500 percent.
After that, let the Yankees sink her, if they can.
And if not, our potential earnings are astronomical.
I must decline, sir.
I want no part of such a scheme.
May I ask why, sir? I have several reasons, but one is enough.
It is unpatriotic.
Since when are perfume, silk and good sherry unpatriotic? - The answer is no, sir! - No to what? We're disagreeing on a business venture, although we do share the same politics.
And, evidently, the same love of beauty.
My dear, may I present Elkanah Bent, sir, at your service.
Mr.
Bent, my wife, Ashton.
You went to the wrong person, Mr.
Bent.
My husband would never invest in something like that.
Because of his patriotism? No.
Because he's a coward.
But I'm not, and I have my own money.
How can that be, madam? Your husband is a lawyer.
And the law says your money became his the moment you were married.
I control my money, Mr.
Bent, because I control my husband.
Well, I can believe that.
And I think he was very wrong to refuse you.
Does that mean that you would not? Perhaps we should discuss it later in private.
Left! Left! Left, right, left! Left! Left! Left, right, left! Left! Left! Left, right, left! Left! Left! Left, right, left! Carter, keep your cadence! Captain Durham! Put them in line.
By company into line! March! Excellent.
That will be enough for today.
You and your men are to be congratulated, Captain Durham.
Just shows how quickly our Southern boys take to soldiering.
Permission to speak, sir.
What is it, soldier? Well, sir, I want to be released from my enlistment.
It's my wife, sir, she misses me.
And my young'uns.
Sir, I gotta be honest with you, I'm not cut out for this militia life.
I can shoot rabbits and possum but I sure don't think I could pull the trigger on no human, not even a Yank.
What's your name, soldier? - Burnett, sir.
- Well, Private Burnett.
What do you think would happen to our Confederacy if every man decided he was not "cut out for this militia life"? Ours is a glorious cause, young man.
Freedom.
Independence.
The supremacy of the white man.
Every one of us must be willing to give his last breath to that end.
Your request is denied, soldier.
- But, sir - That's easy for you to say no, colonel.
You ain't got no family no more.
Colonel! Colonel! Colonel.
Sergeant, dismiss the men! Right face! March! "For thy sweet love remember'd such wealth brings then I scorn to change my state with kings.
" You love my son very much.
He means everything to me.
I never want to hurt him.
Madeline, you bring him such happiness, you could never hurt him.
It's something else, isn't it? I just don't want to ever bring shame to this family.
You never could.
There's something that you don't know.
My mother She had Negro blood in her My dear, Orry already told me.
Oh, Mrs.
Main, then you know that if anyone ever found out All that matters is that my son loves you.
So do I.
Don't you think it's time you stopped saying, "Mrs.
Main"? Call me "Clarissa," if you wish.
Or maybe just "Mother.
" Do exactly what we say, boy, or you'll be in hell damn quick.
Have this nigger saddle up a horse.
Not a word, or I'll slit your throat and the old lady's too.
You're going home, Mrs.
LaMotte.
And this time, you're going to be a dutiful wife.
Miss Madeline Get her on a horse! Take her home.
Give me that.
Fire! Fire! Fire in the cotton barn! Pump up the water from the well! Get a bucket line moving! Get that ladder from the horse barn! We gotta get water on that roof! - You gonna get - Now's not the time! - Cuffey, this fire needs both of us! - Let's go! Fire! Fire! Get on this side! Come on, get a move on! Get a move on! More water! Cuffey, you gotta move this wagon! More water! More water! Hurry! Hurry! Keep them moving! Keep them moving! Keep these buckets moving.
I'm gonna get Miss Clarissa! What's she gonna do, spit on the fire and put it out? Get back on that pump! - Come on! - Quickly! Move it on over there! Gotta get more water! Where's Cuffey, Ezra? Miss Clarissa, he went back inside the barn, down on that end.
Keep the buckets moving! We gotta get more water in here! - How'd it get started? - Justin threw a lantern on the roof! Then he run off and took Miss Madeline with him! Look out! Miss Clarissa.
Miss Clarissa.
We better get her in the house.
Cuffey, you better get out there and help fight that fire.
The cotton's gone, boy.
I ain't wasting more sweat saving things don't even belong to me.
You better never let Miss Clarissa hear that kind of talk.
Let her.
We're killing ourselves, and them folk don't even care about us.
Miss Clarissa? Don't try to move, ma'am.
You took a terrible lick on the head.
We sent for the doctor.
Did you find Miss Madeline yet? We looking for her.
You just rest now.
We get word to Miss Brett.
We going to take care of everything.
Welcome home, my dear.
This was never my home.
I've had time to think, and now I realize how much I want you.
Justin You're mine in the eyes of your God, your church and the law.
No piece of paper is going to change that.
Justin, please.
It's too late.
Please.
Don't be afraid.
I'll be patient for now.
Though I will keep you under guard.
You'll be my lady, and I'll treat you as such.
You'll see how much I've changed.
Justin.
You're guilty of abducting me against my will.
People will know I'm here.
They'll find me.
Every white man at Mont Royal, including your precious Orry is away fighting for our glorious cause.
There is no one, Madeline.
Good night.
Where were you, Mr.
Bent? I don't like to be kept waiting.
I've risked my reputation coming here without my husband's knowledge.
I must say, you do look ravishing, Mrs.
Huntoon.
If you intend on flattering me, sir, you'll have to do much better than that.
May I offer you something to drink? Champagne will do nicely, thank you.
Well, our tastes are similar.
Surely that must mean something.
You presume too much, sir, on such an early acquaintance.
Perhaps I do presume.
I have been expecting you for days.
Money like this doesn't grow on trees, you know.
Besides I haven't decided whether I trust you.
Maybe I should tell you that when I renewed my acquaintance with your husband I had a much deeper motive.
- And that was? - You and I.
You never laid eyes on me until four days ago.
But I've seen your image.
The one he carries in his wallet.
My wedding picture? - The one where your brother is there - Orry? I don't wanna hear about Orry.
- How do you know my brother? - We were cadets together.
At West Point.
Why, he's talked about you since I was a little girl.
"Bent the bastard" is the term I most remember.
Your brother and his friend George Hazard were my enemies.
They conspired to have me discharged from the academy.
I wouldn't be surprised at anything those two might do.
Well, then, you know George Hazard too.
His younger brother married my sister.
I hate all the Hazards, including her.
Evidently, your hatred extends all the way to your own brother.
Orry actually ordered me off the plantation, all because I just tried to interfere with my sister's marriage to that damn Yankee.
You saw my wedding picture? Once.
After one of your husband's speeches.
My sister, Brett, was that drab little thing to my right.
I don't recall it all that well, except for you, of course.
And there was some other woman with dark hair.
- You have another sister? - No.
That was Madeline LaMotte, the whore.
- She's living with my brother now.
- Illicitly.
And openly.
He claims he's giving her sanctuary from her crazy husband.
But from what I hear they plan on being married as soon as she can get a divorce.
Better and better.
- Don't tell me you know her.
- I know something about her that I'll keep to myself for a while yet.
Now I would appreciate it if you gave me that bank draft.
How masterful.
- A man who takes what he wants.
- And he wants it all.
My, my, my, Mr.
Bent.
We are greedy for all the good things in life.
After all, money is but one.
It's the one that buys all the rest.
I'm not that easily bought, sir.
You must show me profits before you deserve what you've just stolen.
You'll have your profits and you'll have more.
Much more.
I must run.
James expects me home when he returns from the treasury.
Send your card around, sir when your ship comes in.
You won't be able to leave today, Semiramis.
The blockade stopped the coastal steamers and the rail lines south are closed because fighting's expected.
Are you still going to Pennsylvania? No, I'll stay here with you until after the battle.
One way or the other, we'll find a way to get you home.
- Excuse me, ma'am, are you Mrs.
Hazard? - I am.
This message passed through Union lines and I was hired to deliver it.
- Thank you, sir.
- Good day, ma'am.
Mother's very sick and Madeline's gone.
We have to find a way to get back to Mont Royal.
- But you just said the fighting? - We can pack the buggy.
Once we get past Union lines, we'll be safe in Virginia.
Miss Brett, your mama don't want you in no danger, or Mr.
Billy He'll understand.
He'd do the same thing.
We have to try.
There's nobody else.
Mama needs us.
Morning.
You all right? Beat just caught on me, lieutenant.
- You in the sharpshooters? - Yeah, I'm just reporting in.
- Name's Billy Hazard.
- Tom Larson.
I'm on the way to your camp too.
I wanna be a drummer.
What about your folks, Tom? Ain't got any.
Aren't you a little young? Don't matter how old you are if you're the best.
I know every last command there is.
No matter how many guns go off you'll hear me, I can promise that.
- Come on.
I'll give you a ride.
- Much obliged, lieutenant.
You ready? One, two, three.
- Stack those rifles! - Look smart! We're ready, sir! This is a regiment.
Think those men are impressive, do you? - Best in the army, right? - Wrong, lieutenant.
Not the best by any measure and neither are you.
Your boots are dusty.
- I've been on the trail.
- You wipe them off before you enter the camp.
- Look, I've had - Your gear isn't packed properly.
- I don't like the way - lf you're Lieutenant Hazard, you're late.
My orders didn't arrive on time.
Why am I defending myself to a sergeant? I am Colonel Hiram Berdan, sir, your commanding officer.
Colonel, sir! I'm sorry, sir.
I can't hold you to account for not recognizing me but as for the already noted derelictions, I can and do.
This regiment will become the best and damn quick.
Yes, sir.
Wait, colonel.
I wanna be a drummer.
Sorry, boy.
You need experience and you're too young.
I came all the way from Baltimore.
At least give me a chance.
Baltimore? Well, make it quick.
Good luck.
Assembly! Forward march.
Retreat.
- What are you laughing at? - You.
That was some introduction.
At least you made an impression on old ramrod.
Rally.
I guess it was pretty funny.
Rudy Bodford.
This is Jamie Powell.
- Nice to meet you.
- Stephen Kent.
Mess call.
William Hazard.
Friends call me Billy.
Well, I can see you're gonna keep us constantly entertained.
First you get your foot stuck in your mouth and then you try to palm off some kid as a drummer boy.
I think he can do the job.
He'll run at the sound of the first cannon.
Billy! Billy! Colonel put me on the muster roll.
I made it! - Congratulations.
- Congratulations.
Corporal! I'm from Wade Hampton's legion.
Real fighting about to get started.
- Manassas Junction.
- How many Yankees are we up against? McDowell's 35,000 strong to Beauregard's 30.
Should be pretty equal.
Gotta get to Richmond.
The boys at the War Department always want a report.
Good luck.
Too late for Ashton.
Better make tracks for Manassas.
Meet him there.
General Beauregard has been bringing his rebel troops to the railroad junction here at Manassas near Bull Run.
They're obviously massing for a major movement north against the capital.
I don't think so, sir.
They'll wait to see what we intend.
While we wait to see what they intend.
Isn't it possible, Mr.
President, that the blockade you ordered of their ports will bring them to their senses before any more blood need be spilled? The Southern hotheads hoot at my blockade as loudly as they question my ancestry.
We cannot expect a blockade to bring them down.
There are certain domestic political considerations as well.
Our people believe it's high time to whip the rebels and end all this.
That traitor Davis has proclaimed their cause the Second American Revolution.
What he's talking about, Mr.
Cameron, is the right to revolt.
We'll crush them with our numbers and be in Richmond by August.
Numbers alone won't be enough.
This will be a people's war.
Brother against brother.
Our greatest test.
Those boys moving south deserve the best arms and cannon we can give them.
I've just tuned in my munitions report.
Our people will work day and night to give them what they need.
Not that so-called Spencer repeating rifle.
Think of the bullets it'd waste.
Stick to the tried and true in battle.
You can't go wrong.
Noted.
Gentlemen, General McDowell had a full meal last night then polished off a whole watermelon for dessert.
If he can polish off Beauregard with as much relish we have nothing to fear.
You'd think this was some sort of picnic.
General, we've been rushed into battle by the public.
The South holds strong defensive positions on their own soil.
The rebels have already retreated to Henry House Hill.
My old classmate Tom Jackson's holding that hill.
I would expect there to be formidable Confederate opposition.
Nonsense, colonel.
Undisciplined rabble cannot stand against a great nation's army.
That's what King George said in 1776.
Gentlemen, please cease fire.
Now you can see why I insisted we come along too.
Somebody has to keep the peace.
That's an odd expression to use on a battlefield.
General, Mrs.
Harper, isn't it exciting? Molly, I didn't think you were coming.
I made Mama change her mind.
She's setting up our picnic.
I wanted to get a good look.
I've never seen a battle before.
Don't worry, I'll keep up.
You're the last one I'm worried about, Tom.
General wants us to move closer to that Confederate battery.
Don't interrupt an artist at work.
I just dropped a Reb artillery captain! Why is Colonel Hazard so concerned? His younger brother is in the sharpshooters.
Company, prepare to advance! Advance while firing! I can't see a thing with all the smoke and the trees and the hills.
Company, halt! - There's their destination, sir.
- Henry House.
Wade Hampton's Legion? To the right, sir, the Hodam's branch.
Let's show them how to whistle Dixie.
Draw sabers! I'll send you back with a message.
Ain't leaving you or my post.
No matter what happens.
We're a team.
Yes, sir.
- That's not our legion.
- Doesn't matter.
It's our war now.
Company, advance! Beat a rally, Tom.
Loud as you can! Come on! Ready! Aim! Fire! We need doctors! Are there any doctors here? We need you.
Take horses and follow me.
Private, what is happening? With respect, sir, all hell is breaking loose.
The wounded are coming in fast.
We're trying to run for home.
Run from the damn rebels? We've no choice sir.
They're whipping us.
- How bad is it? - It's over.
We can't hold them.
I suggest you get the women and children out before they block the road.
You salute a superior officer before taking your leave.
Private! We have to go now before we jam up the road.
Corporal, quickly! Let's go! Fall back! Corporal! Come back here! Corporal! Grab the reins.
- What are you doing? - Move over! Oh, my God! My God, the whole world's gone insane, George.
Completely insane.