DR. QUINN, MEDICINE WOMAN "Dead or Alive" Part I Written by Carl Binder Directed by Chuck Bowman CBS ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTIONS Prod. #2244-0418 in association with PRODUCTION DRAFT THE SULLIVAN COMPANY October 5, 1995 (C) MCMXCVI Rev. Blue, October 17, 1995 CBS Inc. Rev. Pink, October 19, 1995 All Rights Reserved Rev. Yellow, October 26, 1995 Rev. Green, November 1, 1995 Rev. Goldenrod, November 7, 1995 Rev. Salmon, January 15, 1996 Rev. Buff, January 18, 1996 CBS INC. IS THE AUTHOR OF THIS PROGRAM FOR THE PURPOSE OF COPYRIGHT AND OTHER LAWS No portion of this material may be copied or distributed without the prior consent of CBS Inc. DR. QUINN, MEDICINE WOMAN "Dead or Alive - Part I Cast List MICHAELA QUINN SULLY MATTHEW COLLEEN BRIAN LOREN DOROTHY REVEREND JAKE HANK PRESTON ROBERT E CLOUD DANCING EZRA LEONARD CALEB DR. CASSIDY NOAH MCBRIDE WALKS ALONE MAN (WITH PREGNANT WIFE AND SMALL CHILD) FEATURED EXTRAS: LEONARD'S AIDE LEONARD'S COOK MAN'S PREGNANT WIFE MAN'S SMALL CHILD BACKGROUND: TOWNSFOLK HORACE, MYRA AND GRACE DELETED* TEASER FADE IN: EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 1 A festive atmosphere envelopes the station as PRESTON supervises the hanging of a banner declaring: COLORADO SPRINGS SAYS "YES!" TO STATEHOOD! A makeshift podium has been set up, with colorful streamers. The crowd, dressed in their Sunday best and holding miniature American flags, waits anxiously for the train to arrive. Among them are JAKE, LOREN and DOROTHY. Also here are MATTHEW and BRIAN, who reads the banner, a bit confused. BRIAN "Colorado Springs says 'Yes' to statehood." (to Matthew) Thought Colorado was a territory. MATTHEW It is. JAKE Not for long. (waves his flag) Pretty soon we're gonna be another star on the flag. BRIAN But what's the difference between a territory an' a state? Jake pauses. He hasn't a clue. JAKE Well, uh... a state is... Preston steps forward, taking the ball. He kneels in front of Brian, like a father coaching his son. PRESTON Have you learned about the Revolutionary War yet, Brian? How our country was once a British colony? BRIAN Sure. We fought the British to get our independence. (CONTINUED) 2. CONTINUED: 1 PRESTON That's right. Well, what we have here in Colorado is a similar situation. As a territory, we're very much like a colony of the federal government, not allowed to make our own decisions. BRIAN Taxation without representation. Preston smiles, impressed -- Can you believe this kid? PRESTON Very good. But as a state, we'll finally have a voice in Congress. And we'll be able to decide on our own who our governor will be. Someday, that might even be you. Preston hands Brian a flag. Brian takes it, beaming. PRESTON Until now statehood for Colorado was only a dream. But with Ezra Leonard at the helm, it's about to become a reality. BRIAN Who's he? Preston stands, stares off down the train tracks, his excitement building. PRESTON The man we're waiting for. INT. CLINIC - DAY ONE 2 COLLEEN'S at the window, staring out at the street with curious interest as MIKE examines the REVEREND'S sore throat. She feels under the Reverend's chin for swollen glands. MIKE Can you open your mouth? The Reverend gingerly opens his mouth. COLLEEN You goin' to the statehood speech, Ma? (CONTINUED) 3. CONTINUED: 2 MIKE I'm afraid I can't. I'm going to be away most of the afternoon on house calls. (peering into the Reverend's throat) Ah-ha, there's the culprit. Colleen steps over, and Mike allows her a look. COLLEEN Tonsillitis? MIKE Excellent, Colleen. REVEREND Is it serious? MIKE Well, your fever is low, that's a good sign. I'll mix you some Dover's powder to drink with water. That should help relieve the symptoms. Hopefully, you should be back to normal in a week or so. Sully enters holding a paper bag. COLLEEN Hey, Sully. SULLY Hey, everybody. Sully hands the bag to Mike, who reacts, confused. MIKE What's this? (suddenly remembering) Lunch. I'm sorry, Sully, I was supposed to meet you... SULLY It's all right. MIKE I've been so busy today, I completely lost track of time. COLLEEN You goin' to the statehood speech, Sully? (CONTINUED) 4. CONTINUED: (2) 2 SULLY Can't. On my way out to the reservation. From outside, we HEAR the distant train whistle blow. Mike turns to Colleen. MIKE I have an idea, Colleen. Why don't you go to the speech? Then you can fill us in on anything important. COLLEEN (pleased) Sure. And out she goes. EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 3 The train pulls into the station and stops, to the APPLAUSE of the crowd. Colleen hurries over and stands next to Matthew and Brian, just in time to see EZRA LEONARD disembarking. In his 50's, Leonard is a charismatic gentleman who knows the importance of a smile and handshake. But, like all politicians, there's something artificial about his demeanor. With him is his 12-year-old son, CALEB, dressed in a fancy suit and tie, looking bored and uncomfortable. Behind Leonard comes his entourage: AIDE, COOK, etc. Preston moves in, shaking Leonard's hand, as Jake and the other townsfolk hover around. PRESTON Welcome to Colorado Springs, Mr. Leonard. LEONARD Preston, how many times must I tell you -- call me Ezra. PRESTON Ezra. LEONARD You remember my son, Caleb. PRESTON (ruffling the boy's hair) Of course I do. LEONARD How's the bank? (CONTINUED) 5. CONTINUED: 3 PRESTON Picking up steam. LEONARD Why doesn't that surprise me? (to Jake and others) The man comes to Denver, asks for advice in starting up small "financial enterprise." (looks back at Preston) The next think I know, he's running his own bank. PRESTON (feigning modesty) A small bank, I assure you. LEONARD But not for long. (back to the townsfolk) Mark my words, folks -- this man is going places! JAKE (under his breath) Not soon enough. Preston heard that. He gives Jake a quick look as he ushers Leonard to the podium. PRESTON Well, I know your time is limited in our fair town, so... (gesturing) ... the podium is all yours. LEONARD Podiums are for speech-makers, son. And I don't give speeches. And with that, he raises his voice to the crowd, launching into his speech. LEONARD What I do is speak my mind, and for the last ten years, my mind has been focused on one subject and one subject only -- statehood for Colorado! (cheers) Twice in the last decade the issue has been launched, and both times a small and very vocal group of nay-sayers has managed to sink it. But I for one am not about to concede. (CONTINUED) 6. CONTINUED: (2) 3 Leonard pulls out a sheaf of papers and holds them up. LEONARD I'm on my way to Washington to present this statement, signed by a number of prominent citizens, to the Senate Committee on Territories. With it I hope to -- no, I will -- push through enabling legislation that will place the future of this territory in the hands of the good people of Colorado! More CHEERS from the crowd. Leonard continues, but as he speaks: +BRIAN 4 finds his attention drawn to Caleb, who stands back behind his father, fidgeting, bored out of his mind. LEONARD This statement says we are tired of being occupied by a government of office-seeking Carpetbaggers dumped on us by the vote-starved opportunists in Washington! More CHEERS. Seeing that everyone's attention is on his father, Caleb slowly inches his way to the edge of the crowd. Certain that no one's watching him, he then quietly ducks off into the bushes. But Brian's watching, and he's curious. So he follows him. EXT. WOODS - DAY ONE 5 Brian follows at a distance as Caleb wanders down the path. Caleb tosses off his hat, undoes his tie, then picks up some rocks and begins tossing them, trying to hit tree trunks with them. Brian feels for this lonely kid. He steps forward, about to introduce himself, when suddenly: +TWO LARGE HANDS 6 reach out from a thicket and grab Caleb. Swiftly and silently, one hand covers his mouth as the other drags him into the brush. With barely a rustle of branches, the boy is gone. Brian reacts, horrified. 7. EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 7 The speech continues... LEONARD ...and as gentlemen, we'll take our fight to the floors of Congress. And fight we shall! (cheers) Surrender is not an option! BRIAN Help! Somebody help! Everyone turns to see Brian running up in a panic. LOREN What is it, boy? BRIAN (to Leonard) Your son... Leonard looks around, sees Caleb is gone. He turns back to Brian. LEONARD Where is he? What happened? BRIAN Somebody kidnapped him! As the crowd reacts with shock, we: FADE OUT. END TEASER 8. ACT ONE FADE IN: EXT. WOODS - DAY ONE 8 Brian leads Leonard and several of the townsfolk to the spot where Caleb was kidnapped. Among the group are Matthew, Preston, Jake, Loren, and Dorothy. BRIAN He was throwin' rocks over here, an' then somebody grabbed him from the bushes. Brian finds Caleb's hat and hands it to Matthew. MATTHEW Which way did they go? BRIAN (points) That way, I think. It happened so fast -- LEONARD How many were there? BRIAN I don't know. Only saw some arms. MATTHEW I'm gonna get a posse together. PRESTON I'll go. JAKE Me too. DOROTHY (seeing something) Look! The men look up, startled to discover an INDIAN WOMAN (30's) standing about twenty yards away, watching them. She's not from the reservation -- this woman looks like she just stepped down from the mountains. Her expression is calm, her stare silencing the men for a moment. Finally: MATTHEW Who are you? (CONTINUED) 9. CONTINUED: 8 WALKS ALONE I am Walks Alone. I have come with a message. LEONARD Do you know what happened to my son? WALKS ALONE He is safe. Leonard suddenly starts toward her, his anger surfacing. LEONARD Where is he?! WALKS ALONE (unruffled) Do not come further, or he will be harmed. Leonard freezes. The men look around, scanning the trees for any accomplices. But Matthew keeps his eye on Walks Alone. MATTHEW What's the message? WALKS ALONE (to Leonard) You will ride to Cache Creek. There you will hand over the statement you have prepared for the Senate Committee on Territories. LEONARD What? WALKS ALONE You will also promise to withdraw from the Colorado statehood movement. LEONARD Look... you people have always been treated fairly by me -- WALKS ALONE You have four days. LEONARD Four days? Wait a minute... (takes out papers) Here, I can give them to you now. (CONTINUED) 10. CONTINUED: (2) 8 WALKS ALONE Cache Creek. In four days. Only then will your son be returned to you. LEONARD (anger returning) I don't believe this! How dare you tell me what -- MATTHEW (to Walks Alone) He'll be there. For the first time, Walks Alone looks at Matthew, who still holds Caleb's hat. WALKS ALONE You are being watched. If you follow me, the boy will be harmed. And with that, she disappears into the trees. Leonard calls after her. LEONARD You touch him and I'll kill you! Do you hear me? But she's gone. Matthew stares down at the hat in his hands as we: CUT TO: EXT. GENERAL STORE - DAY ONE 9 A MAP of the local region is unfurled across the railing. WIDEN to REVEAL Loren, Matthew, Leonard, Preston, Jake, and HANK, as they lean in to study it. The mood is rushed, urgent. LOREN Never heard 'a Cache Creek. HANK Never heard such a stupid ransom demand. MATTHEW (searching the map) Don't see it anywhere. LOREN Maybe we should call in the Marshal. Or the army. (CONTINUED) 11. CONTINUED: 9 MATTHEW We don't have to call the army. Walks Alone made it clear what we gotta do. Hank reacts to the name with familiarity. HANK Walks Alone? That who we're dealin' with? PRESTON You know this woman? HANK No... but I heard 'a her. She's Noah McBride's squaw. Reactions all around -- this name is legendary to everyone... all except Preston, that is. PRESTON Who's Noah McBride? JAKE Trapper. Mountain man. LOREN Thought he was dead. HANK I did, too... then word come down he killed a ten foot griz with only a skinner. Made a necklace from the claws. PRESTON And where does this charming character live? JAKE Back country, off the map. Matthew rolls up the map, handing it back to Loren. MATTHEW Which is prob'ly where Cache Creek is. LEONARD Well, is there anyone in town who would know how to find it? As the men exchange a look: SMASH CUT TO: 12. INT. HOMESTEAD - LATE AFTERNOON - DAY ONE 10 CLOSE ON SULLY, as he enters to discover Mike in the kitchen, hard at work preparing supper (stew). Sully comes over, sniffs the stew, then kisses her. SULLY Smells good. MIKE I'm paying you back for missing lunch. SULLY Kids home? MIKE Not yet. SULLY (re: supper) Let me finish this. You go sit down. He gently steers her to the table. MIKE I'm all right. SULLY I know you are... but the baby needs a rest. Mike smiles as Sully sits her down. We FOLLOW SULLY as he goes back to the stove. MIKE (O.S.) I think you're right. She's been kicking me all afternoon. SULLY She? No response from Mike as Sully tests the stew, adds a little salt. He turns back to the table, but pauses when he sees: +MIKE 11 who now has her stethoscope out and is listening to her stomach. She looks up at him, motions him over. He sits beside her. She places the stethoscope over his ears and presses the chestpiece against her stomach. Mike watches for Sully's reaction as he listens intently... and then he hears it. (CONTINUED) 13. CONTINUED: 11 SULLY (amazed) What is that? MIKE A heartbeat. Sully listens some more... and as he does, a big smile spreads across his face. Mike caresses his cheek as he continues to listen, thrilled. The SOUND of horses riding up outside catches Sully's attention. He looks out the window. SULLY Somebody's comin'. He goes out the door to investigate. EXT. PORCH - CONTINUOUS - DAY ONE 12 Sully steps out to discover Matthew, Leonard, Preston and Jake riding up. MATTHEW Hey, Sully. You know where Cache Creek is? SULLY Yeah. JAKE Can you take us there? PRESTON That won't be necessary. (to Sully, as he unfurls the map) If you could just show us on the map, I'm sure we'll be able to find -- MATTHEW We're not goin' up there without a guide. PRESTON Then we'll hire one who's adequately qualified. JAKE Nobody knows these mountains better than Sully. (CONTINUED) 14. CONTINUED: 12 SULLY What's all this about? The men are surprised. JAKE You mean you haven't heard? PRESTON We've some business to attend to with Noah McBride. Sully reacts to the name. PRESTON I see you know him, too. SULLY Not personally. An' I got no quarrel with him -- LEONARD He kidnapped my son. This hits Sully hard -- he can't believe it. SULLY Kidnapped? MATTHEW It's true, Sully. Sully stands there a moment, absorbing this. Then: SULLY Be dark soon. We'll ride in the mornin', at first light. LEONARD Can we make it there in four days? SULLY Three, if the weather holds. PRESTON I think we should leave now. We'll save time. SULLY No. Trail's rough in spots. Easier to move in daylight. Preston turns to Leonard. (CONTINUED) 15. CONTINUED: (2) 12 PRESTON Look, I know of some expert trackers who work out of Denver. I can wire them, have them here first thing in the morning. LEONARD No. It's settled. Sully's leading us. (starting off) We leave at daybreak. Preston looks to Sully, giving him a cold look. EXT. GENERAL STORE - DAWN - DAY TWO 13 The men pack their saddlebags, getting ready to ride out. Loren and Dorothy watch from the porch as Jake adjusts his stirrup straps, and Hank finishes stuffing a bottle of whiskey and hunk of chaw into his pack. LOREN You boys know I'd be ridin' with you, if it weren't on account 'a my health. Jake and Hank nod, understanding. JAKE Will you keep an eye on my shop while I'm gone? Loren nods. DOROTHY I want a full description of McBride when you get back. Not many folks 'round here have set eyes on him. HANK -- An' lived to tell about it. JAKE Heard he scalped a whole Blackfoot war party once. DOROTHY Now, Jake, that's just tall tales. I want the facts. (CONTINUED) 16. CONTINUED: 13 JAKE It's true. (back to the men) Four of 'em he scalped while they was still alive. PRESTON (stepping up) His mother must be so proud. (then, to Loren) Loren, I'd like to make a purchase if I may. Preston leads Loren into the store, as Leonard walks past leading his (recently purchased) horse. Leonard's expression is serious -- the man is ready for anything. Behind him are his Aide and Cook, riding in a buckboard wagon. Hank turns to Jake, leaning close. HANK How much you s'pose he's worth? JAKE From just his minin' business, or his family's money too? Hank whistles, impressed. EXT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS 14 Matthew's out front with Colleen and Brian, who help him finish packing his bags as Leonard steps up. LEONARD Are we ready, Sheriff? (CONTINUED) 17. CONTINUED: 14 MATTHEW Almost. Just waitin' for Sully. (then) Don't worry, Mr. Leonard. We'll get your son back, safe an' sound. LEONARD Ever since his mother passed away, he's all I've got... and I'm not about to lose him. The intensity of Leonard's emotions makes Matthew uneasy. He gives Leonard a quiet nod, then looks over, reacting with surprise to see Robert E approaching, leading his horse. ROBERT E Like to ride with you. Before Matthew can respond: LEONARD I don't think that will be necessary. We have more than enough men accompanying us. But thank you for your concern. Leonard's patronizing tone is not lost on Robert E... nor Matthew. MATTHEW (to Leonard, with conviction) If Robert E wants to come along, then he's comin'. Leonard stares at Matthew for a moment, then shrugs it off. LEONARD Whatever you say, Sheriff. (to Robert E) Just don't get in the way. Leonard moves off. Robert E watches him, his dislike of the man building. Matthew turns to him. MATTHEW Sure you wanna do this? ROBERT E A child's been kidnapped... can't sit back and do nothin'. PRESTON (O.S.) Gentlemen, what do you think? 18. +ANGLE ON PRESTON 14A coming out of the store, brandishing a shiny new revolver. PRESTON My first "peacemaker." (off their looks) Well, that's what you call it, don't you? JAKE You mean to tell me you never fired a gun before? PRESTON First time for everything, Jake. HANK (to Matthew) He's carryin' a gun in town, Sheriff. Ain't you gonna arrest him? MATTHEW I'll allow it, seein' as we're ridin' out. HANK Hell, in that case... Hank and Jake strap on their revolvers with a smile. INT. CLINIC - DAY TWO 15 Mike hugs Sully, feeling apprehensive about the journey. MIKE I want you and Matthew to look out for each other. SULLY Should be all right, long as nobody does anythin' stupid. MIKE Do you think Caleb is safe? SULLY McBride said he wouldn't hurt him. MIKE But can you trust him? Sully pauses, clearly strugging with this. (CONTINUED) 19. CONTINUED: 15 SULLY I don't know. Still can't believe he'd do somethin' like this. (beat) But he's known to be a man of his word. It's all I got to go by. (picks up his bundle) Either way, I'm not comin' back without that boy. Matthew opens the door, sticks his head in. MATTHEW Everybody's ready. Mike hugs Sully again, kisses him. Sully looks into her eyes. SULLY Make sure you get plenty 'a rest while I'm gone. Don't be workin' so hard. MIKE You just worry about getting the two of you back home safely. Then I'll be able to rest. EXT. CLINIC/STREET - CONTINUOUS - DAY TWO 16 Mike, Sully and Matthew come out and join Brian and Colleen for final AD-LIB good-byes. As Matthew hugs Colleen, Sully crouches, puts his hands on Brian's shoulders. BRIAN Wish I could go with you. SULLY Somebody's gotta stay behind, look after the family. (touching Brian's necklace) While I'm gone, you're the man of the house. Brian nods, taking this responsibility to heart. Sully stands, gives Mike one last kiss. SULLY See you in a week... He glances over, sees Leonard's Aide struggling to mount his horse. Sully turns back to Mike. (CONTINUED) 20. CONTINUED: 16 SULLY ... give or take a few days. Mike nods, fighting her emotions. Sully and Matthew head over to: +THE MEN 17 who are mounting their horses, ready to ride out. Sully stops by Leonard, eyeing his entourage. SULLY What's all this? LEONARD My personal Aide and Cook. SULLY Cook? LEONARD Venturing into a savage land need not make us savages, Mr. Sully. I'll deliver the ransom to McBride... but I will not play his game. OMITTED (18) 18 Sully mounts his horse, looks to the group -- nine men in all, including himself, Matthew, Preston, Jake, Hank, Robert E, Leonard, his Aide and Cook, driving the wagon. SULLY Let's go. +MIKE 19 calls out to Sully and Matthew from in front of the clinic. MIKE Be careful! +ON THE MEN 20 as Preston raises his revolver with a smile. PRESTON Tell that to McBride! (CONTINUED) 21. CONTINUED: 20 Sully looks at Preston, then back at Mike, who watches with concern. Sully then leads the men out of town, riding off into the hills as we: FADE OUT. END ACT ONE 22. ACT TWO FADE IN: OMITTED (20A) 20A EXT. TRAIL - DAY TWO 21 The trail is wide and well-formed. The men ride several abreast, making their way through the rolling hills. The Cook and Aide bring up the rear in the wagon. Leonard and Preston are deep in conversation as the men arrive at a small stream. LEONARD ... a modest operation at best, but it was a start. SULLY We'll stop here, water the horses. Preston continues the conversation as the men dismount, allowing the horses to drink. PRESTON You were based in San Francisco? LEONARD Originally. But I came in too late, business was slow. Then rumors spread about the Russell brothers' finding gold at Dry Creek, so I moved my entire company out here. JAKE Because of a rumor? PRESTON (impressed) The greater the risk, the greater the triumph. MATTHEW Or the greater the fall. (CONTINUED) 23. CONTINUED: 21 LEONARD No. You mustn't allow failure to enter the picture. (back to Preston) Quitting is not an option. Preston nods, agreeing. Leonard turns to Sully. LEONARD That is why I won't quit until my son is safe and McBride is brought to justice. MATTHEW Let's just worry 'bout gettin' your boy back, first. Leonard doesn't acknowledge this -- he's still watching Sully. LEONARD Tell me, Mr. Sully. You're a former mountain man, why do you suppose McBride kidnapped my son? SULLY Pretty clear. He doesn't want the territory becomin' a state. LEONARD But why? SULLY Lotta people think statehood's gonna change things. PRESTON (interjecting) Of course it is. It's the symbol of progress. LEONARD He can't stop this, you know. It's inevitable. SULLY He doesn't know that. All he knows is what he sees -- minin' companies tearin' up the hills, dryin' up streams, scarin' off game... (CONTINUED) 24. CONTINUED: (2) 21 PRESTON (to Leonard) You'll have to excuse Sully. He has a tender spot in his heart for squirrels and bunnies and such. Leonard looks back to Sully. LEONARD Yes, well, the only "tender spot" I have is for the future of Colorado... the success of which is tied to two things, and only two things -- mining and statehood. Preston smiles... PRESTON Hear, hear. But Leonard doesn't look at him. His eyes are still locked on Sully, who says nothing. EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY TWO 22 Brian is hard at work, attempting to fix the handle on the front door, which is loose. He works diligently as Mike hangs rugs over the rail and cleans them with a rug beater. MIKE What're you doing, Brian? BRIAN Sully's been talkin' 'bout the door handle bein' loose, not shuttin' right. So I'm gonna fix it for him. MIKE I'm sure it can wait until he gets home. BRIAN No, I'm the man of the house. I can do it. Colleen comes out carrying two more rugs. COLLEEN (to Mike) Ma, Miss Grace was askin' if she could bring Anthony in tomorrow mornin'. (CONTINUED) 25. CONTINUED: 22 MIKE That's fine. COLLEEN But you already got a full day scheduled. MIKE One more patient won't be a problem. Especially Anthony... Mike stops short, leaning against the rail, suddenly light-headed. COLLEEN You all right, Ma? The dizziness quickly passes, and Mike composes herself, manages a smile. MIKE Yes. I'm fine. COLLEEN Maybe you should lie down. MIKE It's all right. I'm just a little tired. She turns back to the rug and resumes cleaning it. BRIAN Finished. Brian steps back, then proudly demonstrates his handiwork by slamming the door shut. Mike and Colleen give him a smile... ... but then the door pops open again. Off Brian's scowl... EXT. CAMPSITE ONE - NIGHT TWO 23 The men have made camp, and thanks to Leonard's Aide and Cook, it has all the comforts of home. The men sit around a table, eating an elaborate dinner served on fine china by the Cook, while the Aide pours wine. LEONARD More wine, Mayor Slicker? JAKE Yeah. Thanks. The Aide pours, and Jake drinks. (CONTINUED) 26. CONTINUED: 23 HANK You run a fine camp, Ezra. LEONARD Thank you. It's all part of my motto -- Bringing civility to an untamed land. SULLY Enjoy it tonight, 'cause in the mornin' -- (gestures to Cook and Aide) -- I'm sendin' them back home. PRESTON What? SULLY Tomorrow the trail gets rougher. No room for a wagon. The men quiet, clearly disappointed. PRESTON (a pointed look to Sully) Soon enough, these trails are going to be roads, and these hills will be towns, and a man like McBride will be no more than an amusing anecdote in a history book. SULLY (evenly) Like I said, that's why he took the boy. Leonard reacts, incredulous. LEONARD Are you defending him? PRESTON That man is an outlaw! SULLY I'm not defendin' him. I'm just sayin' I understand why he did it. The men quiet. Sully looks to Leonard. (CONTINUED) 27. CONTINUED: (2) 23 SULLY Kidnappin' Caleb was wrong... but in his mind, McBride prob'ly thought he had no other choice. (stands) The Indians have always said he's a man of honor, and I wanna believe that if we ride to Cache Creek an' hand over that statement, McBride'll let Caleb go, unharmed, just like he said. Sully starts off. LEONARD You're as naive as McBride, you know that? (off Sully's look) I'll hand over the Senate statement, and I'll give my word as a gentleman to withdraw from the statehood movement, if that's what he wants. But once my son is returned, what's to stop me from getting on that train and continuing right on to Washington? Sully gives him a look. SULLY Your word... as a gentleman. Leonard falls silent, staring back at Sully. INT. GENERAL STORE - DAY THREE 24 Loren's stocking shelves *as Mike and Colleen enter. MIKE Excuse me, Loren, but I need to order some new sheets for the clinic. Loren turns to her with a big smile. LOREN Look at you. Gettin' bigger every day. [Mark my words... it's gonna be a girl. MIKE (smiles) A girl? (CONTINUED) 28. CONTINUED: 24 LOREN It's the way you're carryin'... Just like Maude. The Reverend enters.] REVEREND Good morning, everyone. MIKE Good morning, Reverend. How're you feeling? REVEREND My throat's still sore. But the powder seems to be helping. LOREN What is it, your tonsils? (Reverend nods) You know what they say -- only one cure when the tonsils start actin' up. Loren snips the air with a pair of scissors. The Reverend's eyes flare. MIKE That's not necessary, Loren. (to the Reverend) We'll remove them only as a last resort. But right now your condition doesn't warrant it. (CONTINUED) 29. CONTINUED: (2) 24 Mike leans against the counter, suddenly light-headed again. [LOREN You all right, Dr. Mike?] Once again, the dizziness passes, and Mike tries to brush it off. MIKE I'm... just tired. (turns to Colleen) I think I'll lie down for a moment. Will you order the sheets? COLLEEN Sure. Mike goes out. Colleen turns to [Loren and the Reverend]. COLLEEN She's been pushin' herself awfully hard. She keeps sayin' she's all right, but... She trails off, *looking out the window, concerned. INT. CLINIC RECOVERY ROOM - MOMENTS LATER - DAY THREE 25 [Colleen steps tentatively in to discover Mike sitting on the edge of the bed, her back to her. COLLEEN Ma...? Mike looks over, and although she's trying very hard to hide it, the worry in her eyes is evident. Colleen comes over, standing beside her. MIKE Colleen, I... I don't think there's any reason for you to worry. (trying to convince herself) I'm sure this will pass. COLLEEN What will? (sitting beside her) Ma, tell me what's wrong. (CONTINUED) 30. CONTINUED: 25 MIKE (difficult) I've... I've been experiencing a little bleeding. COLLEEN Bleeding? MIKE It's very mild. This happens sometimes during pregnancy... COLLEEN You gotta slow down, Ma. You been pushin' yourself too hard.] MIKE I haven't been pushing myself any harder than I have in the past.[ COLLEEN] In the past you weren't pregnant. [This quiets Mike for a moment, absorbing the weight of Colleen's words. ]From downstairs, we HEAR the bell ring. Mike stands, composes herself. MIKE That must be Grace, with Anthony. [COLLEEN Ma], you need to lie down. MIKE I will, I promise... (going out) As soon as I've seen Anthony. EXT. TRAIL - DAY THREE 26 The men, (now minus the Cook, Aide and wagon) ride through a grove of trees and stop abruptly when they come upon: +A TINY HOMESTEAD 27 in the middle of nowhere. The front door is open, smoke billows from the chimney... but aside from that, the place looks deserted. LEONARD Would you look at that. (CONTINUED) 30A. CONTINUED: 27 MATTHEW (calling out) Hello? Anybody home? No answer. PRESTON It appears the Seven Dwarfs are still at the mine. MAN (O.S.) What do you want? (CONTINUED) 31. CONTINUED: (2) 27 The men look over to discover a MAN (late 40's) standing nearby, his PREGNANT WIFE and small CHILD cowering fearfully behind him. Although the man looks tough and at home in the wilderness, there is a definite nervousness in his voice. He holds a rifle in his hand, at the ready. MATTHEW Relax, folks. We're not lookin' for trouble. MAN Then you best keep on ridin'. SULLY Trail to Cache Creek passable? MAN Here an' there. SULLY Then we'll be on our way. Sully leads the group as they continue on. Preston calls back to the man as they go. PRESTON Are there many other families living out here? MAN No. An' I wanna keep it that way. Preston smiles at this, amused. PRESTON Good luck. +ON SULLY 28 deep in thought as they ride. Preston rides up beside him. Leonard is on the other side of Sully. PRESTON Interesting character. (no response) Remind you of someone you know? Mountain man turned family man? (smiles) Once a legend of the rugged back country, now cooking supper for his pregnant wife... Sully gives him a look, not amused. (CONTINUED) 32. CONTINUED: 28 PRESTON Don't get me wrong, Sully. I want nothing but the best for you and Michaela. I can even picture you with the baby, rocking him to sleep, changing his little buckskin diapers... Leonard chuckles at this... which makes Preston smile all the more. PRESTON (to Leonard) They're the most fascinating couple. She, a cultured doctor from Boston, and he... (back to Sully) What is your occupation, Sully? I know you build things on occasion, and visit Indians at the reservation from time to time... (to Leonard) But with his wife's income, I suppose he doesn't have to work much. Again, Sully gives Preston a cold look. Leonard reads it, turns to Preston. LEONARD If I were you, I'd keep my mouth shut. Preston gives Leonard a confident grin, then looks to Sully. PRESTON What do you say, Sully? You think I should keep my mouth shut? SULLY Don't think that's possible. PRESTON Sure it is. But it's up to you. Sully keeps riding, but then Preston reaches over and grabs his reins, stopping his horse. Sully yanks the reins back from him, giving Preston an angry look. Leonard reacts, amazed at this bold move. Preston looks to Leonard, then back to Sully. The other men watch with varying degrees of concern as the two face off. (CONTINUED) 33. CONTINUED: (2) 28 PRESTON (smile vanishing) Go ahead, Sully. Shut me up. Sully stares at him a long moment... but refuses to take the bait. SULLY Some other time. And he rides on. Leonard turns to Preston, impressed, as they and the men follow behind. Preston, feeling victorious, calls after Sully. PRESTON That's right... "Some other time." Admit it, Sully -- your fire's gone out. This hits home with Sully, but he tries not to show it. He just keeps riding, picking up the pace. PRESTON You're just like this country -- once wild and untamed... now slowly becoming domesticated! +CLOSE ON SULLY 29 not looking back as he drives forward, leading the group deeper into the woods as we: FADE OUT. END ACT TWO 34. ACT THREE FADE IN: EXT. HOMESTEAD - DAY FOUR 30 Brian's outside, once again diligently working on the front door, which is off its hinges and leaning against the steps. Colleen comes out, carrying a plate of food for him. COLLEEN It's Saturday. Aren't you goin' fishin'? BRIAN Can't. Too many things to do. Colleen sits on the steps, handing him the food. COLLEEN Here, you missed breakfast. BRIAN Thanks. Got up early to clean the barn. Brian eats as Colleen looks at the front door. COLLEEN Think it'll hold this time? BRIAN Won't quit 'til it does. MIKE (O.S.) Colleen! Could you come here, please? That came from upstairs, and the tension in Mike's voice causes Colleen to jump to her feet and hurry inside. INT. MIKE AND SULLY'S BEDROOM - DAY FOUR 31 Colleen enters to find Mike sitting on her bed, dressed for work, searching through her medical bag. Several medicines and her stethoscope are laid out on the bed beside her. COLLEEN Ma? What's wrong? Mike looks up at her. The fear in her eyes can no longer be hidden. (CONTINUED) 35. CONTINUED: 31 MIKE Will you ride to the clinic for me? I need some belladonna... and also some ice... COLLEEN Are you bleedin' again? MIKE It's... increased. I thought it had stopped on its own... Colleen reacts with concern, but then composes herself, meeting the challenge. She helps Mike put her feet up, reclining back on the bed. COLLEEN Stay in bed, keep your feet up. I'll wire Denver for Dr. Bernard. MIKE I'm all right. Just bring me the ice and the belladonna -- COLLEEN -- An' then I'm wirin' Denver. MIKE Colleen -- COLLEEN Just stay in bed an' don't move. I'll be right back. And out she goes. Mike leans back on the bed. She sees the stethoscope lying nearby... then looks at her stomach, her face clouding with worry. After a beat, she picks up the stethoscope, puts it back in her medical bag and closes it, not allowing herself to think the worst. EXT. CAMPSITE TWO - LATE AFTERNOON - DAY FOUR 32 No more comforts of home. Jake stirs a pot of beans that cooks over a campfire as Hank watches, chewing on a hunk of jerky between sips of whiskey. Sully stands off to the side, looking over the written statement to the Senate that Leonard will hand over to McBride. Leonard stands beside him, along with Preston and Robert E. Matthew comes over. MATTHEW That the Senate statement? (CONTINUED) 36. CONTINUED: 32 LEONARD (nodding) A small price to pay for my son's life. (back to Sully) That's not only my voice in that statement. It speaks for the forty-thousand residents of this territory, who are ready to vote for themselves. ROBERT E What 'bout colored folks? LEONARD It's difficult enough getting the voting legislation approved. Don't worry, a few years down the line, your people will be cleaned up and better educated, and then you'll have your say. Robert E can't believe what he just heard. ROBERT E Cleaned up? LEONARD Socially, I mean. No offense intended. Robert E gets up, walks off, trying to cool his anger. Leonard looks at the others with a shrug -- What'd I say? PRESTON Will you run for Governor? LEONARD Perhaps. Although my driving passion is the Senate. PRESTON As was my father's. He ran unsuccessfully in '60. (chuckles) Then tried to pass his ambition down to his sons. HANK (coming over) You got brothers? PRESTON Four. I'm the youngest. (CONTINUED) 37. CONTINUED: (2) 32 LEONARD Five brothers. Must've been difficult to get a word in. PRESTON There was a fair amount of competition. (a fond reflection) My father encouraged it. He loved watching his sons battle to gain his favor... (quieting a bit, almost to himself) ... He drove us very hard... Sully reacts to this revelation with silent interest. JAKE (sarcastic) Sounds like a happy home. PRESTON (smiles again) Oh, we had our moments of discord. But my father never allowed it to descend into all-out warfare. Instead, whenever two of us quarreled, he would settle it in a civilized fashion. MATTHEW How's that? PRESTON (proud smile) Boxing. MATTHEW Boxing? Civilized? PRESTON New rules have been drafted in England by the Marquis of Queensberry that emphasize skill and agility over raw strength and savagery. My father taught us to box under those rules. Unfortunately, as the youngest, I spent much of the time on the floor. (laughs) But I did learn how to box. Hank gives him a patronizing smile. (CONTINUED) 38. CONTINUED: (3) 32 HANK Care to show us some a your moves? Hank mimes a few jabs (while holding the whiskey bottle). Preston casts a glance at Leonard, then turns back to Hank. PRESTON Against you? HANK Why not? Been some time since I mixed it up. JAKE Yeah, least a week. Preston thinks about this... and smiles. Leonard's interest is piqued. LEONARD This I've got to see. Preston takes off his hat and coat, begins rolling up his sleeves. HANK That's it. Don't wanna go ruinin' your fancy suit. PRESTON Yes. I'm afraid some of your blood might splatter on it. Hank hands the whiskey bottle to Jake, who forms a circle with the other men to watch. Even Robert E comes back over, intrigued. Matthew's growing uneasy about what's transpiring here. MATTHEW Look... you guys don't have to do this. PRESTON It's just a pleasant diversion. (raising his fists) Right, Hank? Hank raises his fists, and the two move in on each other, circling. Both are smiling, pumped up, ready to go at it. Hank is the first to swing... and the first to miss, as Preston easily dodges the punch. Hank swings again, and again Preston dodges it. PRESTON Skill and agility, Hank. (CONTINUED) 39. CONTINUED: (4) 32 Another swing, and another miss. Preston counters, landing two quick jabs. Preston's still smiling, but Hank's smile quickly fades. He moves in again, eyes locked on Preston. He fakes with a left, Preston falls for it and dodges, only to have Hank slam him with a right hook that drops Preston like a rock. He hits the ground hard. HANK Raw strength. Hank turns to Jake with a victorious smile. Jake hands him the whiskey bottle, giving him a slap on the back. But as Hank takes a sip: PRESTON (O.S.) Fight's not over. Hank turns to see Preston back on his feet, fists raised, ready to continue. And that smile is still there. Hank hands the whiskey back to Jake and moves in on Preston. He takes a swing, but Preston dodges. Another swing, this one connecting to Preston's jaw. Preston's rocked, but he stays on his feet. OMITTED (33-34) 34 Hank throws a right-left combination, both connecting squarely. Blood trickles from Preston's lip, but he's still standing... and still smiling. HANK Gonna knock that smile off your face. PRESTON You just keep trying, Hank. Hank lunges forward, slamming Preston with two body blows but Preston withstands the onslaught, letting Hank expend a lot of energy. Hank steps back, trying to catch his breath. PRESTON (smiling) You're breathing hard, Hank. Hank is angry now. He moves in, slamming Preston hard. He winds up, throws a strong right hook, but this time Preston dodges it and Hank misses, stumbling off-balance. Preston suddenly counters with an explosive barrage of punches that sends Hank reeling backward. Preston surges forward, keeping up the onslaught, driving Hank up against a tree as he slams punch after punch, until finally, Hank drops to the ground, out cold and bleeding from his lip and forehead. (CONTINUED) 40. CONTINUED: 34 LEONARD (impressed) Well done, Preston. Jake and Matthew move in to see if Hank's all right. Jake pours some whiskey into his mouth, and he starts coming to. Preston is bleeding, and his knuckles are raw and sore... but he's thrilled. PRESTON Who's next? Jake? Matthew? Robert E? No takers. Robert E just walks off. Preston turns to Sully, who's watching him in silence. PRESTON How about you, Sully? (no response) I know, I know... "Some other time." The two exchange a look -- that "other time" is fast approaching. Preston turns back to Leonard with a smile as he pulls on his coat and hat, the picture of civility. INT. HOMESTEAD - SULLY AND MIKE'S BEDROOM - DAY FIVE 35 Mike lies in bed, her medical bag on the table beside her. The door opens, and Colleen steps in, an uneasy look on her face. COLLEEN Ma... the Doctor's here. MIKE It's really not necessary, Colleen... Mike stops short as DR. CASSIDY steps past Colleen, entering the room. Mike reacts, stunned, as he removes his hat with a smile. MIKE Dr. Cassidy... CASSIDY (professional courtesy) Good morning, Dr. Quinn. I received your daughter's wire yesterday and got here as soon as I could -- MIKE (not pleased) Where's Dr. Bernard? (CONTINUED) 41. CONTINUED: 35 CASSIDY He's away, unfortunately. Family business back east. But don't you worry... I've treated my share of pregnant ladies. He removes Mike's medical bag from the table and sets his own in its place. As he opens it and takes out his stethoscope: CASSIDY What's it been since our last meeting? Two years? MIKE Are you still racing horses? CASSIDY Of course. Are you still dressing up as men to ride them? He chuckles, pulls up a chair. CASSIDY It's a fine home you've got here. I must say, it's good to see you've finally decided to settle down and raise a family. MIKE I still have my practice, Dr. Cassidy. This pregnancy hasn't affected my work. CASSIDY But it appears your work may have affected your pregnancy. And it very well might be the reason for the threatened miscarriage. This hits Mike hard -- it's the first time the word has been spoken. CASSIDY Yes, Dr. Quinn, as all doctors know, any bleeding during pregnancy suggests potential miscarriage. MIKE Yes... Yes, I know. CASSIDY What have you done for the bleeding? (CONTINUED) 42. CONTINUED: (2) 35 MIKE I stopped it with an application of belladonna and ice. CASSIDY Are you in any discomfort? MIKE No. CASSIDY Good. Let's have a look. Cassidy leans forward and starts to pull the blanket off Mike, but she stops him. MIKE I... there's no need for an examination. Cassidy gives her a strong look. CASSIDY I am a Doctor. MIKE So am I. And I've controlled the bleeding. Silence, as a momentary stand-off ensues. Finally, Cassidy leans back, tosses his stethoscope back into his bag. CASSIDY Fine. (standing) You need to remain in bed for several days. MIKE But I have to go to the clinic. I have patients to see -- CASSIDY The health of your baby is more important than playing doctor. If you could set your vanity aside for one moment and concentrate on that, you'd know I'm right. Stay home... (starting out) ... where mothers belong. He goes out, shutting the door behind him. Mike just lies there, frustrated. 43. EXT. TRAIL - DAY FIVE 36 The trail is much less defined now... almost indistinguishable. The men wait (off their horses) as Sully walks ahead, surveying the surroundings. Hank and Preston are bruised and swollen, but Preston wears his wounds with pride. HANK Don't look like no trail to me. PRESTON Don't tell me we're lost. SULLY We're still on it. Sully points to: +A SMALL ROCK CAIRN 37 very simple, very crude, stacked nearby on the ground. SULLY (O.S.) Trail markers. +BACK TO SCENE 38 Leonard looks at the cairn, then turns to Sully, impressed. SULLY (to Leonard) Should make it to Cache Creek by mornin', just in time for the ransom exchange. Leonard nods somberly, then glances at Sully's tomahawk, hanging at his side. LEONARD You know how to use that thing? SULLY When I have to. PRESTON (interjecting) Of course he does. He's very adept at hitting fence posts, aren't you Sully? Sully doesn't answer. Matthew looks off, spotting something nearby. (CONTINUED) 44. CONTINUED: 38 MATTHEW Look at that. +ANGLE - AN OLD, DILAPIDATED MINE 39 The men walk over, peer into it. JAKE It's abandoned. ROBERT E Must'a gone dry. LEONARD The gold rush is over, gentlemen. Colorado's future now lies with silver. Deep-ore drilling, that's where miners get rich. Hank turns to Sully with a smile. HANK How 'bout it, Sully. You used to be a miner, why don't you go work for Ezra? Leonard turns to Sully, surprised. LEONARD You were a miner? SULLY Long time ago. PRESTON Before his domestication. Sully gives Preston a look, then starts back to the horses, with Leonard and the men following close behind. LEONARD I'd like to talk to you about it sometime. SULLY Not much to tell. PRESTON (interjecting) Which is fortunate for us, seeing as we're pressed for time. As the men mount up, preparing to ride off, Preston stops Sully and steps close to him, a private moment. (CONTINUED) 45. CONTINUED: 39 PRESTON Just a reminder... when we get to Cache Creek, your job is over. SULLY Don't worry about it. PRESTON (quieter) But you see, that's just it -- I do. Your friends may have faith in you, but I don't trust you for a second. And if you do anything that might jeopardize the life of that boy -- SULLY (quiet intensity) Don't threaten me. Preston says nothing as he and Sully exchange a long look, eye-to-eye. Sully then turns back to the horses. Preston follows, the charm returning to his voice as he speaks to Sully in a voice loud enough for the others to hear. PRESTON Have you thought about what you're going to say to McBride when you finally meet him? Sully says nothing, just checks his pack. PRESTON I'm sure there's a part of you that would like to stay out here, ride off into the hills with him. (chuckles) But no, I'm sure Michaela's leash is too tight for that. Sully keeps working, adjusting straps, checking his pack again and again and again... PRESTON But then, with a girl like Michaela, who could blame you for heeling when she calls? She's really something. Spirited, firey, yet remarkably sensual -- Sully suddenly lashes out, punching Preston in the face. Preston staggers backward, then comes at Sully. He takes a swing, but Sully grabs Preston's arm and throws him to the ground in anger... (CONTINUED) 46. CONTINUED: (2) 39 ... but then he freezes, catching himself. Preston's not smiling anymore. But he's not afraid. His look is cold and intense. PRESTON What're you going to do, scalp me? Sully stares hard at Preston... then composes himself. He gets up and walks away, passing by Leonard, who watches him in awe. Preston sees the look on Leonard's face, which burns him up. He stands, dusting himself off as he turns back to Sully. PRESTON It appears I was wrong about you, Sully. You haven't been domesticated. You're still a savage. Sully doesn't respond. Just mounts his horse. PRESTON (points at the hills) You belong out there... with the other savages... Sully rides off, continuing up the trail. PRESTON (calling after him) ... With McBride! The other men mount up and follow Sully, disappearing into the trees as we: FADE OUT. END ACT THREE 47. ACT FOUR FADE IN: EXT. CAMPSITE THREE - MORNING - DAY SIX 40 Preston (knuckles bruised and swollen) finishes cleaning his revolver, begins loading it. Hank gives him a cool look from across camp. Preston says nothing, just keeps loading. The rest of the men break camp, preparing to ride out as Sully moves among them, pointing off at the hills. SULLY Cache Creek is just over that ridge. Cuts through a narrow valley. Once we get there, we can take up positions inside the treeline. MATTHEW (to Leonard) I'll go with you to make the exchange. LEONARD No. I want Sully. Preston reacts, comes over. PRESTON Do you think that's wise? LEONARD Sully knows how this man thinks. PRESTON That's my point. If he's in any way sympathetic toward McBride -- SULLY All I want is to get the boy back -- PRESTON (continuing, to Leonard) You need someone you can trust -- LEONARD This discussion is finished. Sully is going with me. Leonard moves off to his horse. Sully and the other men follow. (CONTINUED) 48. CONTINUED: 40 Matthew pauses by Preston as he goes, noting the cold look Preston is giving Sully. MATTHEW (lowering his voice) What do you got against Sully? PRESTON (beat, eyes still on Sully) Ever since I arrived in town, he's been in my way... (looks to Matthew) ... and I'm growing tired of it. Preston walks over and mounts his horse. INT. CLINIC - DAY SIX 41 Colleen and Brian come in to discover Mike stocking linens in a cabinet. COLLEEN What're you doin' here? MIKE (smiles) I work here, remember? COLLEEN But what about what Dr. Cassidy said? Mike stops working and comes over to them, her tone reassuring. MIKE I'll be careful not to overdo it. But the bleeding's stopped and I'm feeling fine. BRIAN Doc Cassidy doesn't want you comin' to work 'cause he don't like women doctors. Mike smiles at this and resumes working, but Colleen's still a bit unsure. COLLEEN I'll stop by after school to help you out. MIKE I'd appreciate that. (CONTINUED) 49. CONTINUED: 41 BRIAN Wait 'til you get home. I finished fixin' the front door. Good as new. MIKE That's wonderful, Brian. I can't wait to see -- Mike suddenly doubles over in pain, grasping her stomach. BRIAN Ma! COLLEEN What is it? Mike doesn't answer, just shakes her head, in obvious pain. Colleen turns to Brian. COLLEEN Ride out to the reservation an' get Cloud Dancin'. Brian nods, runs out. Colleen looks back to Mike. COLLEEN Dr. Cassidy's in the saloon. Should I go get him? Mike looks at her... then nods. Colleen runs out, leaving Mike alone. She struggles to make it to her desk, sitting heavily in her chair. The pain, fear, guilt and frustration quickly boil to the surface, and she swipes at her desk, knocking everything off. She then breaks down into tears, clutching her stomach. EXT. CACHE CREEK - DAY SIX 42 A gentle stream cutting through a narrow, wooded valley. Sully and the men tie off their horses and move behind some thick brush. Their voices are hushed. SULLY Stay outta sight. An' keep quiet. (to Leonard) Ready? Leonard takes out the papers... LEONARD Let's get this over with. ... then pulls out his rifle. (CONTINUED) 50. CONTINUED: 42 SULLY Leave it. LEONARD We're going to be sitting ducks out there -- SULLY You walk out there with a gun an' your son is as good as dead. The intensity in Sully's voice causes Leonard to back down. He angrily shoves his rifle back into the saddle. SULLY All you gotta do is hand over the papers an' give 'im your word. (starting off) Let's go. Preston gives Sully a quiet stare as Sully pushes past him, leading Leonard down to the creek. The rest of the men move to the edge of the trees, where they have a good view of the creek. +ANGLE - THE CREEK 43 as Sully and Leonard walk out into plain view. They head down to the creek, coming to a stop at the water's edge. They look around, scanning the thick foliage. After a beat: LEONARD Where is he? SULLY He's around. Prob'ly watchin' us right now. Leonard scans the trees again, getting nervous. LEONARD So what are we expected to do? SULLY Nothin'. Just wait. The men stand there. The only sound HEARD is the trickle of the CREEK. INT. CLINIC - RECOVERY ROOM - DAY SIX 44 CLOSE ON MIKE'S FACE, enduring an examination by Dr. Cassidy. (CONTINUED) 51. CONTINUED: 44 CASSIDY You're experiencing uterine hemorrhaging. MIKE Have you administered the belladonna? CASSIDY It's not working. I'm treating it with ergot now. MIKE Isn't that dangerous? CASSIDY Only at high levels. (beat) There. It's stopped. WIDEN as Cassidy finishes the examination and pulls down the bedsheet. Behind him stands Colleen, feeling helpless. CASSIDY Are you still feeling pain? MIKE (quiet) No. CASSIDY You're lucky. Maybe now you'll listen to me. Brian enters with CLOUD DANCING, who quickly moves to Mike's side. CASSIDY Hold on a minute, what's this? Who said you could come in here? BRIAN He's a friend. CLOUD DANCING (to Mike) How are you feeling? Cloud Dancing takes her hands in his. She fights the tears. MIKE I'm all right... CASSIDY I don't care if he's a friend, I don't want him in here. (CONTINUED) 52. CONTINUED: (2) 44 Cloud Dancing turns to Cassidy, his voice even, but firm. CLOUD DANCING Then you will have to remove me. Cassidy decides to re-think his stance. He backs off. Cloud Dancing turns back to Mike. CLOUD DANCING Has the bleeding stopped? Mike casts a look at Cassidy, then: MIKE Yes. CLOUD DANCING Good. Now you must make your body well again. CASSIDY What she needs is rest. CLOUD DANCING I agree. (to Mike) You must let your body heal. (smiles) And then you will be strong for when your little one arrives. Cassidy steps in, his voice laced with sarcasm. CASSIDY (to Cloud Dancing) Are you finished? (turning to Brian) Now why don't you go fetch a wagon, take your ma on home. MIKE Wait... what about my patients? CASSIDY I'll take care of them. MIKE What? CASSIDY I'll wire my clinic in Denver. My associates can manage without me for a few days. (CONTINUED) 53. CONTINUED: (3) 44 Mike falls silent, not liking this one bit... but then she puts her hand on her stomach. She looks back up at Cassidy... and nods. Cassidy smiles. EXT. CACHE CREEK - DAY SIX 45 Sully and Leonard still stand down by the creek, waiting. +BEHIND THE TREES 46 the men also wait, guns at the ready in case of trouble. They continue to scan the foliage, looking for McBride. +BACK TO SULLY AND LEONARD 47 as Sully suddenly turns. He's heard something. LEONARD What? SULLY Somebody's comin'. Leonard follows Sully's stare over to: +A THICK GROVE OF TREES 48 where Walks Alone emerges from the brush. With her is Caleb, seemingly unharmed, but looking very frightened. Walks Alone holds his hand. Leonard sees him and brightens. LEONARD Caleb! He starts forward, but Sully holds him back. The two wait as Walks Alone and Caleb move closer, stopping about fifteen feet away. Walks Alone does not let go of the boy's hand. SULLY Where's McBride? WALKS ALONE Watching. Leonard looks around, but sees no one. WALKS ALONE He is close enough to hear your promise. Sully looks to Leonard, urging him with a nod. Leonard looks to the trees, raising his voice. (CONTINUED) 54. CONTINUED: 48 LEONARD I hereby give you my word, as a gentleman, that I will end my involvement with, and withdraw my name now and forever, from the Colorado statehood movement. +BEHIND THE TREES 49 the men wait, wondering what's next. +AT THE CREEK 50 Leonard is also looking around, waiting. But there is no response. Walks Alone extends her hand. WALKS ALONE The Senate statement. Leonard takes out the statement... but then hesitates. LEONARD Where's McBride? WALKS ALONE Watching -- LEONARD I know he's watching, I want to see him. (holding up the papers) I want to give these to him personally. WALKS ALONE You will give them to me. SULLY Give 'em to her -- LEONARD I want to see him -- SULLY (sharp) Give 'em to her! Now! Sully's eyes bore into Leonard's, until finally, he relents. He starts toward Walks Alone, his anger toward her building. He walks right up to her, facing her... then slowly holds out the papers. But as she reaches to take them from him... Leonard suddenly pulls a pistol from inside his coat and grabs Walks Alone, pulling her to him. (CONTINUED) 55. CONTINUED: 50 LEONARD Run, Caleb -- A GUNSHOT immediately rings out, and Leonard is hit in the shoulder, driving him backward. CALEB Father! Walks Alone lunges for Caleb, grabbing his arm and dragging him back to the woods. Sully starts after them, but a volley of GUNSHOTS sends him diving for cover behind a rock. +BEHIND THE TREES 51 The men scramble to get their guns, taking aim in the direction of the shots. Preston FIRES first, followed by the others. They're quickly met with return FIRE. Matthew's the only one not firing. His eyes are still on: +WALKS ALONE 52 who drags Caleb into the thick brush. CALEB Father! And they're gone. Sully sees Leonard writhing on the ground nearby. Seeing that the men are drawing the GUNFIRE away from him, he makes his move. He races out, grabs hold of Leonard and begins dragging him back to safety. BULLETS tear into the ground around him, but he manages to haul Leonard safely back behind the rock. +BEHIND THE TREES 53 the men continue to FIRE. Matthew backs away from the group (unnoticed by the men) and circles around, heading in the direction Walks Alone went. +AT THE CREEK 54 Sully ducks behind the rock, waiting. Finally, the shooting stops, and the valley falls silent. Sully looks back out, scanning the area. SULLY (calling to the men) Where is he? 56. +BEHIND THE TREES 55 the men peer out from their position. ROBERT E I don't know! +BACK TO SULLY 56 as he ducks back down and rolls Leonard over, examining his wound. SULLY Can you walk? LEONARD Caleb... SULLY (angry) Can you walk? Leonard manages a nod. Sully hoists him to his feet and helps him back into the cover of the trees. +ON MATTHEW 57 pushing through the brush alone, rifle in hand, still moving in the direction of Walks Alone. He suddenly stops, looks around -- Did he hear something? He turns TOWARD CAMERA, but as he does -- The BUTT OF A RIFLE slams Matthew in the face, knocking him unconscious. He falls to the ground as a pair of BUCKSKIN MOCCASINS step up. A HAND reaches down and rolls Matthew over, revealing the Sheriff's star pinned to his chest. TILT UP to reveal NOAH MCBRIDE. Tall, bearded and weathered by years in the mountains, this is an imposing man whose appearance alone is enough to give rise to his legend. Around his neck is a necklace made from the claws of a grizzly bear. McBride stares down at Matthew, his eyes piercingly intense, burning with anger. +BEHIND THE TREES 58 Sully helps Leonard back to the group, where he drops him on the ground. PRESTON Is he all right? SULLY (to Leonard) You coulda got us killed! (CONTINUED) 57. CONTINUED: 58 ROBERT E (looking around) Where's Matthew? Sully and the men realize Matthew is gone. JAKE Matthew? HANK Where'd he go? SULLY (calling) Matthew! The men begin combing the area, looking for Matthew, except for Preston, who stays behind with Leonard. Sully pushes frantically through the brush, followed by Robert E, Jake and Hank, as they continue searching. ROBERT E Matthew! SULLY Matthew, where are you?! A TOMAHAWK suddenly cuts through the air, digging into the ground nearby. Sully looks to it and freezes... +CLOSE ON THE TOMAHAWK 59 tied to the handle is Matthew's Sheriff's star. +BACK TO SULLY AND THE MEN 60 reacting with dread as we: FADE OUT. E