

### NED HICKEY

A hero of two revolutions

A script-novel adapted by

JOHN O'NEILL

from

THEY FIRST AROSE

by William Nolan

### NED HICKEY

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © John O'Neill 2012

Published December 2012 by:

John O'Neill

kiwijohn@xnet.co.nz

blog: www.childrenofthecromlech.wordpress.com

Formatted by Peter Harris at the New Leaf Network bindery,

Kaiwaka, New Zealand. Cover design by Peter Harris.

Editing, book and cover design,

Printing & binding of remarkable books and limited editions:

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Email wizardofeutopia@gmail.com

FOREWORD

This story is written for readers who love to dream, to imagine - scenes, faces, settings and yet do need a story on which to hang their vision of how the earth moves for ordinary humans in extraordinary times or circumstances.

It is not a screenplay in the approved format required by the production units of the film industry, the minimalist offering on which is let loose the horde of specialists who turn out a film which may have little in common with the original.

Neither is it a novel in the conventional and perhaps outworn form in which the author defines every thought, action, scene to impress her visions on the acquiescent and passive reader.

Each format has its place but there is space between for those who would enjoy creating their personal special mental images on and between the story. It then becomes theirs in a way that is encouraged not barred. The flesh with which you, the reader, clothe the skeleton is uniquely you.

There will be as many Ned Hickeys, Betsy Mahers, Robert Proctors, Sir Philip Butlers, Thomas Jeffersons as there are readers. I look forward to hearing from all of them and you via my blog. Enjoy.

John O'Neill

Kaiwaka, NZ

December 2012

### NED HICKEY

### By John O'Neill

Adapted from the novel They First Arose

### by William Nolan

INT.- SITTINGROOM, PHILADELPHIA, 1826 - DAY

FX. Sounds of horse traffic on cobbled streets. Distant fife band music. Holiday atmosphere.

Large period desk in window light. Candles, inkwells, quill-pens. Camera from POV (Point of View) of seated man, scans desk. Examines the newspaper - Philadelphia Courier, July 4, 1826. Notes headline - 50 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE. Passes on to an opened letter. An old man's hand picks up the letter.

NED HICKEY

(off-screen (OS) as camera scans the letter)

Monticello, Virginia. June 29, 1826.

My dear Hickey,

On the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, I recall all the gallant and noble men who made that declaration a reality. Many have gone to their reward, as I will shortly, but you, I understand, remain in vigorous good health. May you long retain it for surely health is our greatest blessing with the possible exception of freedom. This scribbled message will convey to you my deepest appreciation of the service of which you and few others are aware and heartfelt thanks of

Thomas Jefferson

Postscript. I am told that you and your good wife will be feted on Independence Day at the City Hall of Philadelphia. May it be an occasion to rejoice in your life's achievements which deserve to be recorded as an inspiration to those who follow. Perhaps you can be persuaded to see to it?

Jefferson

**Ned falls into reverie, remembering and reliving the course** **of the life which has brought him to this point.**

NED HICKEY(OS)

I've spent the last twenty years trying to forget. Now he wants me to go over all the ancient history. Posterity won't give a damn, of course, but maybe it's time I rattled old bones if only for my own understanding. But, where to start?

He opens a drawer, takes out an old cross and holds it in the palm of his hand, idly and unconsciously stroking it with his thumb.

NARRATOR (VO) (VOICE OVER)(quietly)

1770, it must have been, almost 60 years ago, when I first left home....

FADE OUT

EXT. - PROCTOR'S FARMYARD - DAY

NARRATOR (VO)(contd) ...

Thirteen years old and out into the world to work my way. There was little choice then and none at all for my father, the poor destroyed man. He had no hope left for himself but tried to give me the chance that had been denied him.

Proctor, an elderly but sprightly tenant-farmer, is busy amid a heap of rough-cut stones, building a wall for a new out-house. A man and a boy approach his gate and enter. The man is of middle age, tall, thin and melancholy. The boy is almost as tall but gangly and dressed in clothes long outgrown and with no shoes.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Well, if it isn't James Hickey. How are you, James, and who have you traveling with you?

JAMES HICKEY

I'm well indeed, Mr Proctor, and this is my son Ned I spoke to you about. Say hello to Mr Proctor, Ned.

NED HICKEY

I'm pleased to meet you, sir.

ROBERT PROCTOR

You look a likely lad, Ned. Had some schooling, your father tells me. But how about work? Have you been out working yet?

NED HICKEY

I help me father at times when he gets work at Ballintemple, building the new walls around the estate for Lord Butler.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Do you indeed? Maybe you can help me then to lift this brute of a stone I need to finish the course and make a corner? I was set to build a ramp and slide it up but maybe the two of us?

Ned sets himself, crouches, lifts the rock up and rests it on his knees. Then, with a smooth lift up to his chest and lowers it into its place on the wall. His father smiles. Proctor gapes.

ROBERT PROCTOR

It looks like you've got the job, lad. If we're all agreed you'd better come along and meet Mrs Proctor.

JAMES HICKEY

I'll be leaving you, son. Work well for your new master. I have no doubt he will be more than fair with you. Sure, we'll see you on the Sundays.

James turns to walk away. Then, on an afterthought, he comes back. He takes a worn wooden cross on a leather necklace from his pocket and gives it to Ned.

JAMES HICKEY

This is all I have left of your poor mother. She would have wanted you to have it.

He pats Ned on the shoulder and takes his leave. Ned stuffs the cross in his pocket in some embarrassment. Proctor leads Ned to the door of the farmhouse where his wife Rebecca is waiting with their servant-girl.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Rebecca, this is Ned Hickey who will be working for us. Will you see to him and set up a bed for him in the tackroom, seeing that it is the driest place we've got? And maybe you might find a pair of boots big enough? And maybe an extra shirt? And a trousers?

REBECCA PROCTOR

Anything else you can think of, Robert Proctor?

ROBERT PROCTOR

No, no, I don't think so. Have I forgotten something? Yes, indeed I have. Ned, this is Betsy Maher who, small and all as she is, does a power of work around the place and allows Mrs Proctor all the time she needs for her prayers and good works.

He winks cheerfully at all in turn, wins a smile at last from Rebecca and goes whistling down the yard.

NARRATOR(VO)

Seven happy years I spent at Proctors. They were kind and good people of the Quaker persuasion and although Rebecca thought all Papists were doomed, that did not prevent her from spoiling everyone around her with the love she would have spent on children of her own.

FADE OUT

EXT. - PROCTOR'S FARM \- DAY

**Montage of shots, unheard discussions, FX (sound effects),** **showing activities on the farm to accompany narrator.**

NARRATOR (VO)

I learned all the arts of farming, milking the cows, handling draught horses, broadcasting the grain-seed, scything and harvesting. Mr Proctor gradually came to trust me and I him despite our differences in age, station and religion.

FADE OUT

INT. - PROCTOR'S KITCHEN - DAY (two years later)

Table set for midday Sunday dinner. Robert at head, Rebecca at foot, Ned (now 15) sits beside Betsy (13).

All seated - soup served with bread basket filled in centre of table. Robert bends his head - all follow.

ROBERT PROCTOR

We thank you, Lord, for our health and happiness and the food you have provided.

REBECCA PROCTOR

And we pray thee, Lord, to care for all those in peril and in want where-ever they may be.

(all respond)

Amen

Ned and Betsy bless themselves with the sign of the cross. They eat soup quietly.

NED HICKEY

A good soup, Mrs Proctor. What's the secret?

REBECCA PROCTOR

No secret, Ned. It's easy when you just give Betsy the run of the kitchen. She will make some lucky man a good wife some day.

NED HICKEY

(laughs) And who would be bothered waiting for her to grow up?

Betsy blushes, angry, and leaves the table abruptly, hiding her annoyance at the open kitchen fire where she takes a roast of meat from the pot, serves it on a wide dish before Robert Proctor, who admires it, savours the aroma, nods approval to Betsy and sets to carving.

Betsy, meanwhile, grabs the soup dishes off the table and serves out the vegetables on four plates for Mr Proctor to add the slices of meat.

Betsy resumes her seat beside Ned and, without looking up, she remarks -

BETSY MAHER

From what I hear about the dances and ceilis, Ned doesn't seem to be interested in the girls or they in him.

NED HICKEY

(seething) And what would you know, little brat? You aren't even big enough to go out at night.

REBECCA PROCTOR

Enough, I say. Betsy doesn't go only because I say no. Dancing and frivolity is not what we do in the service of the Lord. And if you're not careful, Ned Hickey, you will stay home at nights too and see how that suits you.

Robert Proctor throws a warning glance at Ned and attempts to cool the argument.

ROBERT PROCTOR

This is no way to enjoy a Sunday dinner and you should be ashamed to have started it, Ned, especially with Betsy so fond of you ... and all of us..

(he added hastily)

There was a long silence, broken by Ned, turning to Betsy.

NED HICKEY

I'm sorry, kitten. I was only teasing.

Ned puts his arm across Betsy's shoulders in a brotherly way to which she smiles forgiveness.

Robert and Rebecca exchange smiles. He, brightly (problem solved). She, hesitantly, (problem looming).

(Later, table cleared of dinner dishes)

ROBERT PROCTOR

Well, you two, I expect you are away to your people for the rest of the day? Go carefully and get back before dark for the roads are not safe with all the rogues about.

NED HICKEY

Sure I'll just go across the fields and up the Mass-path to see my father and Andy. I'll be safe as houses.

BETSY MAHER

Tom and the rest of them will be waiting for me at the river crossing, and from there sure it is only a step across the bogs.

REBECCA PROCTOR

God be with you then.

(as they hurry away out the door)

FADE OUT

EXT. - HICKEY'S COTTAGE - DAY

Ned's father, James, stands at the door, obviously waiting for Ned. Ned approaches.

NED HICKEY

Good day to you, father.

JAMES HICKEY

Failte romhat, Eamon. I thought you might not get away.

James turns and calls in to the cottage.

JAMES HICKEY

Andy, your brother is here.

Andy Hickey appears, blinking in the sunlight. He is a slighter member of the family. He carries a book in his hand, one finger marking the page.

ANDY HICKEY

Would you look at this, Ned.

The book is a translation of the 'The Social Contract' by Rousseau. Andy is excited and voluble.

ANDY HICKEY

This is the way, Ned. Some day we will all live this way, all equal under the law, with equal rights and opportunities and obligations to each other. No more bowing and scraping to the gentry and hiding our religion and education for fear of what they may do to us.

NED HICKEY

Is this what you're teaching the children who pay you the odd penny or sod of turf for their chance to read and write?

JAMES HICKEY

You're dreaming again, Andy. There is no justice here and never will. There was no recourse when Bully Dysart evicted us from our little farm as your mother gave birth to your sister. No one we could turn to then and none now. I'm glad they died for I've never made a decent living since.

NED HICKEY

Didn't you do all you could for us, father. Haven't I got a good position at Proctors and Andy a well-respected schoolmaster.

Ned looks at Andy and shakes his head. Their father's obsession with the past is wearing him down. His health and strength are obviously failing.

JAMES HICKEY

Well, there's a rabbit stew on the fire and maybe you would come in and share it with us?

NED HICKEY

(hesitates briefly) I will and gladly, father, and thank you for it.

James goes inside. Andy turns to Ned with a smile and a wink.

ANDY HICKEY

Sometimes the children catch more than the sod of turf along the way.

They go inside.

FADE OUT

INT. - PROCTOR'S TACKROOM - DAY

Ned's bed is in one corner with few possessions. The cross hangs on a nail. Horse tackle hangs neatly on pegs from the walls of the long, narrow building. There is a bench under the window.

Robert Proctor enters with Ned, carrying two guns of the period, (flintlocks and muzzle-loaders), and a pistol-case. They place the guns carefully on the bench.

ROBERT PROCTOR

I haven't cleaned these for a while, Ned, and a dirty gun is more of a danger to the one who fires it than to the target. I'll show you how it's done.

He proceeds to open the guns, squinting down the barrels, oiling the cleaning pads and pull-throughs, gets Ned working on the cleaning. Flints are examined for wear and replaced and mechanisms tested. Robert pays special attention to the fowling-piece which is the only one he uses.

ROBERT PROCTOR

This gun was given to me last year by the old lord, Richard Butler himself. We had been here in this tenancy for fifty years, since I was a child. Now isn't that a long time to be in a place?

NED HICKEY

(mutters under his breath) And we've been here over two thousand years!

ROBERT PROCTOR

What's that, Ned?

NED HICKEY

Nothing, Mr Proctor. Sure it is a long time indeed.

Robert then opens the case on the bench, takes out one pistol of the pair and examines it. Ned is excited.

NED HICKEY

Are these the real things? The pistols that the gentlemen use in the duels?

ROBERT PROCTOR

Real enough, boy. My father had to defend himself with them once but I have never used them in anger, thank the Lord. I'm supposed to keep them in working order, just in case.

NED HICKEY

(keenly) I've never handled a gun.

ROBERT PROCTOR

I know that, Ned, with you being Catholic but, under my supervision, I don't think anyone will take you away for it.

They examine and clean the pistols. Ned picks one up, raises it and sights through the window. He sees Robert looking and puts it down quickly and in embarrassment.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Would you like to have a shot then, Ned? Come, we'll set up a target and I'll show you how it's done.

He sets up an open barrel on a bench at the end of the room, lays a paper across the mouth of it, comes back and loads the two pistols, showing Ned the procedure as he goes.

ROBERT PROCTOR

I'd better tell Rebecca or she'll think the French have landed.

He goes out. Ned is fascinated by the pistols as they lie on the bench, reaches out but resists the temptation to touch them. Robert returns.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Now, lad, this is how to use the pistol.

He hefts one of them, examines it carefully, seems almost afraid of it.

ROBERT PROCTOR

'Tis good insurance even if you never need it or are never allowed to use them.

He stands side-on to the target, raises his arm, sights slowly and carefully along the trembling barrel and pulls the trigger. A rock chip flies from the wall close by the barrel. Ned is startled by the noise and smoke but keen as ever.

ROBERT PROCTOR

That wasn't very good, was it, Ned? I'm out of practice. But, still, 'twould scare them off if nothing else. Now let's see if you can do better.

Robert hands the other pistol to Ned, who hefts it nervously, takes a deep breath, raises his arm swiftly and lets fly.

ROBERT PROCTOR

That'll never do, boy. You must take your time and aim.

This without looking at the target.

Ned points. Robert looks and sees a hole very close to the centre. Taken aback.

ROBERT PROCTOR

A lucky shot, Ned. You really must do it properly to master the pistol. Here, we'll reload and try again.

They reload. Robert sets Ned in position, raises his arm slowly, lets go and encourages Ned to aim. Ned does just that and places a shot just inside the rim of the target. He is plainly uncomfortable with the stance and procedure.

(Much later)

ROBERT PROCTOR

Don't be discouraged, boy. It takes years of practice and more powder and ball than we can afford.

NED HICKEY

Mr Proctor, can I try it just once more, my way? It just seems natural to me.

ROBERT PROCTOR

(jokingly) Well, alright, Ned, but you pay for the charge if you don't hit the spot.

Ned takes up the pistol, turns and fires in one smooth motion. Another hole appears dead-centre. Robert Proctor's face reflects astonishment, pride in his protegee and a vague apprehension.

NARRATOR (VO)

Little did I think then how Mr Proctor's well-meaning lesson in pistol shooting was to determine the direction of my life and change it forever.

FADE OUT

EXT. - PUBLICHOUSE YARD - NIGHT

Circle of onlookers, surrounded by others standing on barrels, sitting on walls etc. In the circle, Chicken Jackson, stripped to his tights, pacing, flexing, challenging. He is past his prime but formidable. His assistant, Bruiser McCoy, revs up the crowd, announces a prize of five pounds to any man who can take a fall out of Chicken.

BRUISER MCCOY

Is there a man among you? Anyone to take one fall out of Chicken Jackson? For five pounds, what can you lose?

ONLOOKER

Only your head.

(LAUGHTER)

A challenger steps in. A big, soft man, showing off to his drinking companions. Bruiser starts to take bets on the outcome.

BRUISER MCCOY

Two to one I'm offering. Double your money if the big man wins. Come along there, what chance does little Chicken have against your man? You sent him in. Are you not going to support him? Mr Doyle here knows a fighter when he sees one. He is putting a pound on him. Who else wants to make money the easy way?

Bruiser takes the bets, calls in the fighters and rings the bell. The challenger advances in wrestling style. Chicken waits, allows him to close, wrestles a few moments and breaks. Chicken nods to Bruiser and at the next attack, quickly floors his man, pins him for the count and taunts the crowd. Bruiser calls for the next challenger. No one volunteers. It looks like the entertainment has fizzled out. Ned is called from the back and pushed forward. He reluctantly agrees, strips and steps into the ring. Bruiser pushes his way through the crowd, taking bets from Ned's admirers and rings the bell. They circle, Ned comes in low, takes Chicken and attempts to trip him but Chicken breaks away. They close again. Chicken tries a hold but by sheer agility, Ned breaks away. They circle again. Chicken decides it is now-or-never, feints to the right, moves left but Ned is too fast, quickly takes his arm, slips underneath and heaves Chicken over his shoulder for a heavy fall. Before Ned can pin him down, Bruiser rings the bell furiously while the onlookers boo and hiss. Chicken recovers, Bruiser rings, Ned advances but Chicken evades, spins him round and throws Ned down but Ned rolls in the fall and is away before Chicken can pin him. Bruiser rings bell.

(LATER)

Chicken and Bruiser in fierce whispered argument. Clearly Bruiser wants to call it off and sacrifice the money. Chicken won't have it. Bruiser rings the bell reluctantly. Chicken comes out slowly - clearly tired. Ned comes out fast. He feints left and right and attacks from the left. Chicken is caught and slowly folds to the ground. Ned falls on him, pinning his shoulders down. The crowd roars and starts to count -

one-two-three-

Ned sees Chicken looking, not at him, but at Bruiser, desperately. There is more than a loss in wrestling here, more at stake than the money. There is humiliation and an ending. The count goes on -

six-seven-eight-

Ned relaxes his hold slightly. Chicken turns him over and pins him while Bruiser counts hurriedly.

The crowd disperses leaving the combatants sitting exhausted on the barrels.

FADE OUT

EXT. - PUBLICHOUSE YARD - NIGHT

Bruiser takes the coins from the betting into the pub to be changed. Serving boy appears from the pub, bringing two jugs of beer.

SERVING BOY

Mr Doyle sends you these with his compliments on a great fight.

He looks at them with admiration and departs reluctantly. They drink great draughts, sigh and stir themselves experimentally.

CHICKEN JACKSON

(In Cockney accent) So well 'e might, 'e'll take more dosh out of this than either of us tonight.

Bruiser returns, hands over the money, goes back inside. Chicken straightens up slowly and goes to his clothes hanging on the door, Puts the money away but takes out five pounds. He offers it to Ned.

CHICKEN JACKSON

You let me out of that hold, so the money is yours, fair and square. What puzzles me is why you did it. Can you afford to throw away five pounds?

NED HICKEY

You beat me, Mr Jackson. That's the way it turned out and I'll not have your money.

Chicken tries to force it on him. Ned protests.

NED HICKEY

Are you looking for another session then?

CHICKEN JACKSON

Indeed I'm not. I couldn't face that serving boy in the state I'm in, and I still have to fight in Myshall tomorrow night.

They finish their drinks.

NED HICKEY

I'll tell you what. Here is a proposition for you. Teach me how to box and some of your tricks of wrestling and we'll forget the five pounds and even have another jug on it.

CHICKEN JACKSON

(thoughtfully) Your name on it, lad and it's a deal.

NED HICKEY

It's Ned, Ned Hickey, Mr Jackson, and thank you.

They shake hands and open the door of the pub to a great cheer from those already inside.

FADE OUT

INT. - PROCTOR'S KITCHEN - DAY

Breakfast setting, porridge bowls and milk jug. Robert, Rebecca, Ned and Betsy seated at table.

ROBERT PROCTOR

You were late coming in last night, Ned. Rebecca was worried about you and Betsy was up and down to the window.

NED HICKEY

I went up to Myshall and stayed late. Sorry to disturb you.

REBECCA PROCTOR

Don't let it happen again, young Ned.

Silence for a moment.

NED HICKEY

I went up there to take some lessons in wrestling and boxing from Chicken Jackson. I had to wait until his bouts were finished.

ROBERT PROCTOR

(excited) Who did you say? Chicken Jackson? Surely he is not fighting around here. He was champion of England a few years ago.

NED HICKEY

That's him, Mr Proctor. He is traveling the country, doing the towns and challenging all-comers for five pounds.

ROBERT PROCTOR

And why would Chicken Jackson take you on as a pupil? How much did you pay him?

NED HICKEY

(awkwardly) Well, nothing at all. You see they made me challenge him the other night in Ballon and he offered to show me a few tricks - for nothing.

REBECCA PROCTOR

You've been out fighting, Ned Hickey, and I'll have none of that.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Wait now, Becky. There's fighting and there's prizefighting. One is stupid and the other is as good a trade as any and better than most. It'll do Ned no harm at all to learn to defend himself.

Rebecca is silent but unhappy. Betsy's eyes are round and fearful.

ROBERT PROCTOR

We can't have you walking home in the middle of the night. I think you'd better take the mare. Maybe that way, we'll get some work done next day.

NED HICKEY

I'll take care of her, Mr Proctor, and thank you.

NARRATOR (VO)

For the next few weeks I followed Chicken Jackson and his nephew, Ken, Bruiser, McCoy all over the county, taking lessons from him and becoming more and more friendly for, despite his act, Mr Jackson was an honest tradesman and a decent man. Ken, it turned out, was his nephew, the son born to his sister who had been abandoned by the father and died soon after. Chicken had been looking after him ever since for Ken was a dependent by nature and looked to his uncle for support and direction in everything. It was coming home from one of these sessions that the course of my life was changed forever.

CUT TO: INT. - PROCTOR'S TACKROOM - DAY

Ned, agitated, cleaning some harness. Robert bursts in.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Ned, what did you do to the mare? She's looking terrible - and you're no better. What's going on here? Had you any part in the murder of Grimes, the yeoman, last night?

NED HICKEY

Oh, no! He's not dead, is he?

ROBERT PROCTOR

So that's it. Tell me what happened, boy, and nothing but the truth now.

NED HICKEY

(slowly) I was coming home from Newtownbarry over the Boggon Hill. I heard this group of men and horses in front of me. They could only be there to enforce the curfew so I turned off to pass them behind the hedge. The mare stumbled in the dark. They heard me and sent one in to flush me out ....

CUT TO:

EXT. UNDERGROWTH - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)

A yeoman with pistol drawn walks confidently through the undergrowth, searching. The mare shifts nervously. He hears and moves closer, senses Ned in hiding, turns and points the pistol, Ned strikes it aside and they struggle for it. The gun goes off. The yeoman sinks to the ground. Ned grabs the mare and escapes.

CUT TO:

INT. - PROCTOR'S TACKROOM - DAY

NED HICKEY

(contd) He found me and we fought for the pistol he was carrying. It went off as I took it from him and he fell down. I ran, leading the mare, and then galloped home across the fields. I threw the pistol in a boghole as we crossed the river. God forgive me if I killed him.

Robert and Ned are silent for a moment.

ROBERT PROCTOR

I know you, Ned. I'll choose to believe you didn't mean to kill him. But now we must act quickly because they will take the country apart. Depend on it, they will be here before the day is out. (pause) You've cleaned up the harness? that's good. Now go out quickly - brush the mare - brush out all the marks of harness and saddle - brush her roughly and throw some dust over her, as if she's been out in the paddock or a month. Take her shoes off for they will be looking for tracks. (pause) Then go, yourself, down the fields. Take the hedging tools and work away down there until I come for you. (pause) Do exactly as I say now, Ned, and quickly, for your life may depend on it.

FADE OUT

EXT. - PROCTOR'S FARMYARD - DAY

Robert Proctor making himself busy. A troop of horsemen come to the gate. Robert meets them.

SIR RICHARD BUTLER

Proctor, a sorry business. I suppose you have heard of the murder at Boggon Hill. Mr Cornwall has asked me to accompany some of his men in a search for the criminal. Imagine someone on horseback and armed with a pistol taking the life of an honest yeoman and on my estate.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Sir Richard, you know we are peaceful people here and I will vouch for all who live with us. There are no murderers here.

YEOMAN

We will search your place, farmer, just in case.

ROBERT PROCTOR

Sir Richard, if you wish them to ransack your property, I have no objection. But, as you know, the only pistols here are safe in their case which I will show you at any time. The only riding horse we have is the old mare you see below in the paddock and she is not fit. I haven't been on her for months. In fact, she hasn't even been shod.

The yeoman rides down the yard to look at the mare. She scarcely raises her head. He examines her hoof-prints.

Robert goes into the house and returns with the pistol-case which he opens for Sir Richard.

SIR RICHARD BUTLER

Thank you, Proctor. We are wasting our time here. Let us move on before nightfall. None of my people involved, I'll warrant.

The riders move on. Robert watches from the yard.

FADE OUT

INT. - PROCTOR'S TACKROOM - DAY

Betsy enters. Ned is kneeling by his bed. He is in shock, trembling and crying. Betsy kneels beside him, puts her arms around him.

BETSY MAHER

I just overheard Mr and Mrs Proctor talking about the yeoman. Sure, 'twas him or you, Ned. Don't take it so hard. You didn't set out to kill anyone, only to go the roads in peace.

They cling together, Betsy stroking his hair, wiping away his tears. He grows calmer. They stand up and separate but move close again, this time with kisses which graduate from tenderness to passion. They both know that childhood and mere friendship have gone forever.

Rebecca enters, ignores what she sees.

REBECCA PROCTOR

Ned, we just heard that the yeomen have gone up the hill. They've got Bully Dysart leading them, so there will be mischief this day. We thought that maybe there are people you should warn.

Ned runs out. Rebecca comforts Betsy.

CUT TO:

EXT. - HICKEY'S COTTAGE - DAY

Ned approaches, slows, stops when he hears the keening of the neighboring women. Andy is sagged against the wall by the door. Their father lies in the yard, bleeding from a head-wound. He is dead.

NED HICKEY

What is it, Andy? Are you alright?

ANDY HICKEY

It's the father, Ned. Bully Dysart just shot him and for nothing. Sure he never gave offence to anyone in all his life. Dysart first evicted him and now has killed him for not telling where I was to be found.

NED HICKEY

God, damn the man to hell.

Ned and Andy cling to each other while the neighbors surround and support them, praising the memory of their father and cursing the killer.

NED HICKEY

He can count the days until he meets his Maker. I will kill Bully Dysart.

ANDY HICKEY

I know you will, Ned, but now we must look after the wake and the funeral. Dysart's time will come.

The people raise the body and carry him into the cottage. Father Quinn arrives, rushes in for the anointment and the last prayers.

ANDY HICKEY

We should go in, Ned. We have to be there in spite of everything. I need you with me for I don't know what I might say to the priest when he tells me again to turn the other cheek.

They go together into the cottage.

FADE OUT

EXT. - CHURCHYARD CEMETERY - DAY

JAMES HICKEY's body is carried in long procession down the hill from cottage. The priest waits by the church gate. The mourners with Andy and Ned take turns carrying the bier. As they arrive at the church, a troop of yeomen gallops up from the village with Bully Dysart at its head.

BULLY DYSART

We want you, Andy Hickey, and now we've got you, without your father's help. Come out here and confess to murdering Clarence Grimes. You have talked sedition and treason for years and now you will hang for it.

The crowd mills around the coffin and those bearing it. The yeomen present their weapons: blunderbusses, muskets and pistols. Father Quinn steps into the space between them.

FATHER QUINN

Mr Dysart, please leave us to bury our dead. Isn't one Hickey enough for you today?

BULLY DYSART

I want the killer and no priest will prevent me from getting him. Out of my way, papist, or you'll swing beside him.

FATHER QUINN

You are wrong, Mr Dysart. On the night of Mr Grimes' sad end, I was with Andy Hickey. We played chess well into the night as my housekeeper will confirm. There are villagers who saw him enter my house and leave it. You have no evidence.

He faces Dysart for a long moment.

BULLY DYSART

You will burn, Mr Quinn, in this life and the next and I will drink to that.

Dysart wheels his horse around savagely and leads his men away at the gallop. The crowd cheers. The priest signals for quiet and the funeral moves through the gate and to the graveside where the keening of the women fills the air.

FADE OUT

EXT. - PROCTOR'S FARMYARD - DAY

(one year later) Young Sir Philip Butler and his party ride up to the gate.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Proctor. Are you in, man? I say, Proctor.

**Robert Proctor emerges from the house, Ned Hickey** **follows.**

ROBERT PROCTOR

Sir Philip, I'm glad to see you. We haven't met since Sir Richard's untimely passing.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

He always spoke very highly of you, Proctor, and of the coveys of partridge you raised for him. Have you any sport for us today?

ROBERT PROCTOR

Indeed I do, Sir Philip. Young Ned here always knows where to find them and will show you gladly, won't you, Ned? And he can load for you as you go.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Excellent, Proctor. Before we go, allow me to introduce Lieutenant FitzHenry who has shown the good sense to come over to me from Burton Hall. Deuced good fellow. Will be looking after things on the estate while I'm away at Parliament betimes.

FitzHenry nods to them superciliously, absorbs all information, says nothing.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

We'll away then and leave the horses in your stables. Give them a rubdown and a bite of your best oats. Come along, Ned, where are these birds?

The party dismounts, walks through the yard into an adjoining field. Ned carries a spare gun for Sir Philip.

(Later, same day)

The shooting party returns, in jovial mood, with some birds.

ROBERT PROCTOR

So you got some shooting, Sir Philip.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Indeed we did, Proctor. Splendid day. And your man, Ned, here bested us all. I told him to have a go and, bless me, he took one down from eighty paces, didn't he, Fitz?

FITZHENRY

A lucky shot, Sir Philip, as he admitted himself.

ROBERT PROCTOR

(eagerly) No luck about it. I've never seen any man shoot as he does. You should see him with the pistol.

Ned looks fiercely at him but too late.

FITZHENRY

How can that be? And he a Papist, surely?

ROBERT PROCTOR

(flustered) Well, I know 'tis unusual but I feel more secure now that I'm getting on in years to have someone able to protect the farm if needs be. So, I taught him all I know.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

It's alright, Proctor. I trust your judgment. Let's see what he can do then.

CUT TO:

INT. - PROCTOR'S TACKROOM - DAY

Robert Proctor brings the pistol-case. Ned sets up the target.

ROBERT PROCTOR

I've loaded the pistols, Sir Philip. Do you want to have a shot?

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

No, Proctor. We came to see your protegee. Let's get on. Pay attention, Fitz.

FitzHenry puts down the book he had picked up from a shelf above Ned Hickey's bed. It is "The Social Contract". He makes no comment but watches Ned with greater interest.

ROBERT PROCTOR

No need to be nervous, lad. Remember what I taught you.

Ned steps up, checks the pistol, turns, aims and fires with rather more than usual care and deliberation.

FITZHENRY

One inch left, Sir Philip. Not bad. But I bet you five he cannot do it again.

Ned quickly takes the second pistol, turns and fires without even a pause to aim.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

That's five pounds on my side of the ledger, Fitzy. He scored a bull.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. - DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT

A ball is in progress at the home of Sir Edward Crosby. Dancers float by the drawingroom door to music and laughter.

Sir Philip Butler is in party mode, drunk and getting more so. FitzHenry is worried.

FITZHENRY

Would you step outside, Sir Philip? For a moment.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Go away, Fitz. I'm enjoying myself here with Captain Beevor. He tells good stories of the Americas and holds his drink like a gentleman.

FITZHENRY

An urgent matter, Sir Philip. Most urgent.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Oh, alright, Fitzy. I might as well be married, having a nag like you along. Hold there, Captain Beevor. Secure another bottle for us on my return.

**FitzHenry and Sir Philip go out on the terrace where** **FitzHenry speaks to him quietly but urgently.**

CUT TO:

EXT. - TERRACE - NIGHT

Sir Philip and FitzHenry stand outside the drawingroom window, in conversation. Captain Beevor watches intently.

FITZHENRY

There is some mischief brewing, Sir Philip. I feel it gather. Since when has a lackey of the Dysarts and the Burtons made friendly with you and especially now that they are fighting for their political lives. Be aware. Go carefully, for I know they would destroy you.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Lieutenant FitzHenry, you overstep your place. I came here to enjoy myself and have a drink in congenial company and I will do so. Do not interrupt me, sir.

Sir Philip goes back inside.

FADE OUT

INT. - DRAWING ROOM - NIGHT

(Later) Sir Philip at table with a beautiful, vaguely theatrical woman. They laugh and drink together familiarly. Sir Philip is increasingly drunk.

FITZHENRY

(to Sir Edward Crosby) Have you seen this lady before, Sir Edward?

SIR EDWARD CROSBY

No, Lieutenant, I have not, nor do I recall inviting her. If it were not for the circumstances, I would wager she is no lady.

They watch as the conversation becomes more animated. Just as they notice the appearance of Bully Dysart, the lady rises to her feet in a dramatic pose of horror.

BULLY DYSART

What is it, Catherine? What has happened?

CATHERINE

(Weeping) He insulted me, Bruce, most grievously. I cannot repeat his request but I have never been so addressed. Please take me home.

BULLY DYSART

You scoundrel, Butler. Did you think the lady was alone and unprotected? You'll answer for this and at dawn tomorrow.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

(confused, slurred, swaying) Fight you anytime, Dysart. I did nothing - nothing.

Sir Edward pushes through the crowd now gathered.

SIR EDWARD CROSBY

There must be some mistake, gentlemen. Can we not discuss this with cool heads, later?

BULLY DYSART

There is nothing to discuss. This man is no gentleman and on any remaining honor he may have, he must answer for it.

SIR EDWARD CROSBY

(reluctantly) I will wait upon you shortly to make the arrangements. Can we not, at least, postpone the meeting for twentyfour hours? Sir Philip, as you can see, is not in fit condition.

BULLY DYSART

He has already accepted, Sir Edward. Would you over-ride his wishes?

Sir Edward shakes his head. The gathered onlookers are silent, already convinced that Sir Philip cannot survive. The music stops.

Dysart leaves with Catherine through a silent gathering on the ballroom floor.

Sir Philip is now comatose.

SIR EDWARD CROSBY

(to FitzHenry) He will not live through this. It is murder - ritual murder. He couldn't face Dysart at the best of times but like this ....

FitzHenry has been uninvolved, aloof, calculating. He has a plan and instructs Sir Edward, who has none.

FITZHENRY

When Dysart's second arrives, Sir Edward, tell him we meet at the gate of Doyne's estate in Tullow Green and at dawn exactly. If Dysart is not there at the appointed time, we will go home and claim default. I am going back with Sir Philip right away to Ballintemple. I'll put him to bed for a few hours and meet you at dawn in Tullow.

Without any further discussion, FitzHenry has Sir Philip carried out.

CUT TO

INT. - PROCTOR'S TACKROOM - NIGHT

Ned is sleeping. FitzHenry bursts in. Shakes Ned awake.

NED HICKEY

For God's sake, what is it? 'Tis the middle of the night.

FITZHENRY

It's Sir Philip, Ned. He has been set up for murder. Made utterly drunk and then challenged to meet in a duel in Tullow at dawn. He is in no condition.

NED HICKEY

Is that all? Just tell him not to go. 'Tis silly games anyway.

FITZHENRY

Games or not, Ned, he will go or be called a coward all his life. He will not be able to show his face in Parliament and the Tories will have won again. We have no time to discuss the rights and wrongs. There is only one way to save him.

NED HICKEY

How, then?

FITZHENRY

You remember last month, you came down to Ballintemple on a message for Proctor. I met you at dusk in the courtyard and said "Tis you, Sir Philip". For a long moment I mistook you, for there is a likeness in build and the way you walk. What I can mistake at dusk, others will at dawn. You can step in for Sir Philip and save his life.

NED HICKEY

No, no, Captain. I work for him betimes but I'll not play by his rules. Even if I'm not discovered and survive, I will have the blood of an innocent man on my hands for the rest of my life.

FITZHENRY

The man you call innocent, Ned, is Bully Dysart. He arranged to get Sir Philip drunk, forced a duel on him and will kill him this morning for his own pleasure and the political needs of the Burton Tories. And I know what Dysart has done to you and your family. This is your only chance for revenge, within the law.

NARRATOR (VO)

This was the moment when my fate was decided. I look back and would like to blame others for the road I took but, ultimately, the choice was mine - to accept all that life and circumstance threw at me, as my gentle father had done, or to strike out when revenge offered her sweet self.

Ned takes the cross from the wall and slowly puts it round his neck.

NED HICKEY

I cannot forget. Can you get me in and out of Tullow?

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. - TULLOW GREEN - DAY

As dawn breaks, FitzHenry descends from a carriage.

The Dysart party is waiting and have picked the ground.

Sir Edward Crosby approaches. FitzHenry takes him aside urgently and explains the plan. Sir Edward takes some convincing but finally nods agreement.

Sir Edward approaches the carriage, opens the door and escorts Ned in Sir Philip's clothing toward the dueling ground.

SIR EDWARD CROSBY

This is chancy, Ned. Damned chancy. If things go wrong, I will be unable to help you. Do you shoot as well as I'm told you can and maybe we will see it through.

They reach their station. Sir Edward goes over to the Dysart party. Captain Beevor detaches from the group and goes through the ritual. They check the pistols and the marks and call forward the principals in the drama. A Captain Roche, appointed to manage the encounter, takes charge.

CAPTAIN ROCHE

You have selected your weapons. Now, on your marks, gentlemen, and turn your backs.

(Pauses) I will count "one, two, three and fire". On the word "fire" and not before, you will turn and deliver your shots, each in his own time. In the event that one holds his fire and survives the shot of the other, he may advance on the other and demand satisfaction. If this is not forthcoming, he may then shoot the other at pointblank range. All clear? Get ready.

(loudly) One-two-three-FIRE

Ned pivots smoothly, points and fires. Dysart pulls the trigger wildly in a spasm of injury and falls to the ground. Beevor rushes to him with the attending doctor. Beevor shakes his head in astonishment and anger. The onlookers crowd around Dysart. Ned and FitzHenry are left standing alone.

DOCTOR

Mr. Dysart is dead.

FADE OUT

EXT. - ROADWAY - DAY

A carriage waits by the side of the road. FitzHenry watches Ned who is ill with shock, retching into the ditch. FitzHenry waits impatiently.

FITZHENRY

Come, Ned, pull yourself together, man. You did only what was necessary.

Ned composes himself slowly, climbs back in the carriage.

FITZHENRY

Now to get you away - out of the country.

NED HICKEY

What did you say? There was no mention of this. Why should I leave? Sure, only you, Sir Philip and Sir Edward know the truth and they are not likely to let it escape.

FITZHENRY

And you, Ned, unfortunately. We need to be sure of your silence now and in the immediate future. There are two ways of ensuring it and I have chosen the more acceptable option. We are on our way to Kilkenny barracks where I have already enlisted you with the 4th Foot Regiment which sails to the American war under General Burgoyne in a few weeks. You will make a fine soldier, Ned, and come back with great stories of your adventures. Those ungrateful colonists will be whipped in no time. Six months or so and you'll be home and well-rewarded for your service.

(Pauses) Before you turn down the offer, Ned, consider the alternative.

FitzHenry indicates the platoon of cavalry riding close behind with weapons at the ready.

FITZHENRY

(contd) Don't even consider making a dash for it. Should you by any chance escape, there is always the matter of the yeoman you killed on Boggon Hill. Don't bother to deny it, Ned lad. It does not need a high level of proof to hang a man in these times - or his brother, if needs be.

Ned slumps, bewildered and helpless. The coachman touches up the horses and they trot away down the road.

NARRATOR (VO)

So, that was the way I left Ireland. Perhaps I should have listened to Father Quinn, the good man, who implored me to leave vengeance to God when my father was murdered. I asked him how long I would have to wait. He had no answer. So, I was separated from all that I loved and could only exact a promise from FitzHenry that he would inform the Proctors and concoct a suitable tale to cover my sudden conversion to defender of the empire.

(angrily) It was only later that I realized how FitzHenry had used me, not only to save Sir Philip, but to place him entirely in his power. FitzHenry's knowledge of Sir Philip's default was to establish him firmly in the Butler estate for as long as it suited him. I have few memories of the next few months, drills, marching, weapons-training, fitting-out, embarkation and sailing for Canada. I was a clockwork man. They wound me up and I did as I was told, automatically. My only resolve was to desert to the Americans at the earliest opportunity and I bided my time.

FADE OUT

INT. - SITTINGROOM, PHILADELPHIA, 1826 - DAY

Ned Hickey returns to the Philadelphia Courier second headline - Champlain Canal Opens Way to Canada. He stands up from the desk and moves to look at maps on the wall and describes what he sees as Narrator (VO). Camera looks over his shoulder at a map of the Adirondacks. Ned traces the waterway used by Burgoyne from Quebec south through Lake Champlain. His finger wanders, indicating the optional route not taken through Lake George.

NARRATOR (VO)

We sailed up the St Lawrence to Montreal at the end of May, 1777 and Burgoyne had our campaign planned and ready. We were to take a few warships and miscellaneous boats south into New York through Lake Champlain. Then over the short portage to Lake George and follow the old and well-traveled Indian trail across the ten-mile ridge between us and the Hudson River which would float us down to Albany to join up with General Howe's army coming up from New York town. A great scheme, indeed, which would have cut the American states in half had it been carried out as planned. I was there when it all fell apart.

CUT TO:

EXT. - BRITISH CAMP, ADIRONDACKS - DAY

An orderly, military scene of bustle and preparation for the campaign. Long view of tents, cooking-fires, drilling-grounds on the shores of a lake in the forests, mounted officers in splendid uniforms, many with wives and camp followers. Boats being unloaded. Ned Hickey identified among the ranks.

CUT TO:

INT. - BRITISH ARMY TENT - DAY

(evening) General Burgoyne is seated with his senior officers at a dinner table in his tent. They are taking port and cigars after dinner. They are content with their campaign and confident about a successful outcome.

BURGOYNE

Gentlemen. Now that we have celebrated our successful campaign, we must decide on the next stage of the journey. Happily for those who are not accomplished sailors, we now proceed on horseback as befitting a British army. Twenty-three miles, I measure on the maps, four or five days, and we shall be on the banks of the Hudson and with an easy run downriver to Albany where we join General Howe and his New York army with the colonies dissected and emasculated. (pause) To Albany, gentlemen, and King George.

(ALL)

Albany and King George.

BARON VON RIEDESEL

(in German accent) General, I wish to question if it is wise to take this route which is a departure from the planned and accustomed trail through Lake George. One day's sailing will take us back to the head of the lake and we can resume from where we diverted in pursuit of the enemy. That overland trail is shorter and well-traveled. Here we enter unknown territory.

BURGOYNE

My dear Baron, I expect your Hessian soldiers will have no difficulty in keeping up with my men. When we left Quebec, I vowed publicly that this army would never retreat. I stand by that, sir. We took Ticonderoga from the damned colonials and have pressed on. We will not go back.

BARON VON RIEDESEL

At least, let me propose that we send out a scouting party before we commit our troops to the march. We must know more about the terrain and the enemy forces which may defend it.

BURGOYNE

(looks around the table, sees nods of agreement)

Right, gentlemen, if you must be so careful. We will do that. Arrange for a scouting party to look it over but we will not delay. They must return within two days, no more.

CUT TO:

EXT. - BRITISH CAMP, ADIRONDACKS - DAY

An officer calls for volunteers from Ned Hickey's platoon for scouting duty. Ned steps forward. A few others are selected by the sergeant. They move out on the run along with a group of Indians and disappear into the forest.

FADE OUT

EXT. - ADIRONDACK FOREST - DAY

The scouting party moves south along the river. Relatively easy going and no sign of the enemy. Ned works his way up the slope and into the forest. He walks warily, searching for a contact. He feels observed but sees no sign. He stops, puts down his musket, steps away and waits with hands on his head.

NED HICKEY

(quietly) I am Irish. I have no quarrel with Americans. I want to fight alongside you not against you. My name is Ned. Come and talk to me.

Ned waits quietly. He senses an approach from behind but does not turn around. He feels a gun in his back.

AMERICAN SCOUT

So, Irish, what game are you playing?

NED HICKEY

No game. This is not my kind of sport. I am what I say, an Irishman caught up on the wrong side of this war.

AMERICAN SCOUT

It's too easy, Irish. We can't afford to take chances.

Ned twists, grabs the gun and throws his opponent over his shoulder in a classic wrestling move, takes the rifle and holds it at the neck of a huge man, dressed in deer skins and fur hat.

NED HICKEY

I tell you again. I'm with you. I could shoot you now and get a medal for it. But I won't. Here's your rifle, and my hand if you'll take it.

AMERICAN SCOUT

Well mebbe that'll make us square. I've had you in my sights ten times since you started out. We'll talk to the Captain and see what he makes of you but mind, I'm right behind. Now walk quietly, if you can. You make more noise in the bush than a bull-moose in the rut. Up the hill now.

The American picks up Ned's musket, looks at it disparagingly, steers Ned up the hill. They walk into denser cover. The American calls quietly with a bird-call. It is answered from close by. They enter a clearing and wait. After a moment, a man comes out of the forest, He is clothed similarly to the other but wears a peaked cap with the words "Liberty or Death" inscribed on it.

AMERICAN SCOUT

He is one of yours, Captain Reilly, or claims to be. Wants to join up with us, he says.

CAPTAIN REILLY

So, one of us, are ye? What part of the country are you from then?

NED HICKEY

I'm Ned Hickey, from the County Carlow, and with a name like yours, you'd be from Cavan or further north.

NARRATOR (VO)

I thought I had it all worked out. Contact made without getting killed. Nothing left but turn my coat and fight for the republic. But nothing in my life has been simple and this was no exception. Captain Tom, as they all called him, accepted me but took the greatest chance on his judgment by refusing to allow me to join up. He had a better idea. I was to return to the British, at least for a while.

CAPTAIN REILLY

Are ye scouting all the way to Fort Edward and the Hudson, then?

NED HICKEY

No. The General is in a tearing hurry. Maybe he's afraid of running out of supplies. At any rate, our orders are to be back with a report tomorrow morning and that will only allow us to go a few more miles.

CAPTAIN REILLY

That suits us very well, Ned. You go back now with the best report you can muster. The Indians will give no thought to the transport of cannon and such. You will be expected to cover that and you will find no problem whatever in advancing down this way. Get them out here, Ned, and we will deal with them. Keep your head down and stay away from the officers and maybe you'll survive to cross over to us later. Good luck now, Ned, and God keep you.

FADE OUT

EXT. - ADIRONDACK FOREST - DAY

Army on the march. Selective scenes of infantry soldiers, mounted officers, horse-drawn wagons and cannon, some women (wives and camp-followers). An orderly advance in confident mood. Relatively open and easy terrain.

(later) Ambush. Trees felled across the trail. Rifle shots pick off officers and horses. Confusion. Platoons ordered into the forest to search and destroy. Firing ceases and no sight of the enemy. Advance resumes but now more slowly with trees, rocks to be removed from the trail.

(repeat) Attacks from cover grow more frequent. Terrain degenerates to marsh. Heavy and persistent rain. Wagons and cannon have to be lifted over and around obstacles. Progress is slow and losses mount.

(days later) The army is in disarray. Morale is gone. The mud, obstructions, scarcity of horses, constant rain, quality of food, the constant danger from an unseen enemy all take their toll. The senior officers gather around General Burgoyne.

BURGOYNE

Gentlemen, we are in some difficulty here. I will make two observations to any of you who might have plans to the contrary. We will not retreat. We will reach Fort Edward and win this campaign. I have decided to release our Indian allies to do what they have most wanted to do all along. That is to burn out and destroy all settlers they may find in the area. This will punish those who have aided the rebels and divert their efforts to the protection of their families. There will be no further discussion of these matters, gentlemen. Go back to your troops and drive them them where you cannot lead them. That is all.

NARRATOR (VO)

Burgoyne's second mistake was setting his Indians upon the people. The memories of the French and Indian wars were still fresh and the repetition of the Indian methods of warfare raised hundreds of settlers from the entire area to come out as independent militia or join the regular American armies. Burgoyne advanced at less than a mile a day, losing officers, transport, wagons and supplies all along the way. He made it to Fort Edward but severely mauled, beyond all reach of new supplies and to find that the army from New York, with which he was to link, had never advanced to meet him as planned. But he was always a gambler and again over-ruled his advisers and started a pontoon-bridge across the Hudson from which he would attack Albany and re-establish his supplies and capacity. His obstinacy in the face of his circumstances cost him dearly. His army, now a dispirited rabble, never did get the rest and recuperation they needed. They were harassed all the way to Saratoga and there they were finally defeated and Burgoyne surrendered.

FADE OUT

INT. - SITTINGROOM, PHILADELPHIA, 1826 - DAY

**Ned Hickey turns from the maps, walks to a cabinet, takes a** **bottle and glass, pours a drink in leisurely manner. Returns** **to his desk and sits.**

NARRATOR (VO)

I was taken prisoner with the others but not for long. I wasted no time in contacting Captain Reilly again and very soon was learning the very different ways of the Virginian riflemen. (pauses) (takes a drink) Little did I think then that one day I would be instrumental in the construction of the canal which now takes goods and travelers in one or two days of ease and safety across that strip of land which buried Burgoyne and the British hopes of retaining their American empire. (pause) The war went on, ebbing and flowing across the thirteen colonies but now with a tide that ran against the British. The king of France was finally convinced of probable advantage and sent troops and fleets of ships to our aid. I was attached to Morgan's Rangers with many another Irishman and survived many actions. (pause) Yorktown was the final struggle and I had an involvement there which is probably that which led old Jefferson to send this letter. It was certainly the key to the salvation of many of my friends twenty years later.

FADE OUT

EXT. - MONTICELLO, EXTERIOR - DAY

Two horsemen ride up the avenue to the mansion at Monticello. They are travel-stained but cheerful.

DANIEL MORGAN

Well, here we are, Ned. Isn't that a fine sight? Do you think that in the new Republic, we'll all live like this?

NED HICKEY

I doubt it, colonel. But I must say it makes a change for me to ride up to the front door of such a place instead of round the back to the servant's entrance as I did so often back in Ireland.

DANIEL MORGAN

You just behave yourself, Sergeant-major Hickey. No slurping tea from the saucer here, Ned. This is a different campaign to any we have fought before.

NED HICKEY

Not a worry, Colonel Morgan, sir. I have seen more gentry than you have bottles of rum and that's saying a lot. Mind you, I had little time for any of them.

DANIEL MORGAN

This one you will find different, Ned. Mark my words.

They are met at the steps by two small black boys who take their reins and lead the horses away. A formally-dressed major-domo welcomes them at the entrance and escorts them to a waiting room.

CUT TO:

INT. - MONTICELLO, RECEPTION ROOM - DAY

The majordomo leaves Morgan and Ned

seated in the elegant reception room. He then goes away to announce them. A very beautiful black woman of middle years brings them drinks of cold lemonade. Morgan watches her every movement as she pours. He takes his glass without any acknowledgment and places his hand familiarly on her hip as she stands beside him. She turns to move away but he holds her skirt.

BETTY, A SLAVE WOMAN

We belong to Mr Jeffehson, suh. He does not share.

Morgan releases her slowly. She moves to pour for Ned Hickey

NED HICKEY

Thank you, ma'am.

She looks at Ned quizzically, surprised by his courtesy, smiles quickly and leaves the room. Colonel Morgan shakes his head and laughs at Ned's reaction. The major-domo returns.

MAJORDOMO

Sergeant-major Hickey, Mr Jefferson asks your indulgence while he meets Colonel Morgan. He requests that you remain available. Colonel Morgan, Mr Jefferson will see you now.

He escorts Morgan up the stairs. Ned occupies his time examining the paintings, admiring the garden etc. (later) The majordomo returns, escorts Ned upstairs.

CUT TO:

INT. - MONTICELLO, STUDY - DAY

Thomas Jefferson, a mild and unimpressive gentleman in dressing-gown and slippers, is standing at a large table filled with maps, letters and documents. He shakes hands with Ned Hickey and then silently studies his reaction to the proposition which Morgan introduces.

DANIEL MORGAN

Ned, I have sent you into many ticklish situations. Sometimes I have even asked you first. This is another situation where you must exercise your own discretion whether you will accept the task which Mr Jefferson and I place upon you.

NED HICKEY

Colonel, Mr Jefferson, I have not refused you yet. What have you got for me this time?

THOMAS JEFFERSON

Sergeant Hickey, I place great faith in the judgment of Colonel Morgan. He has told me of your origins and background and I have already made some assessment of you. It is my hope, indeed, my belief, that you can achieve something for the Republic which will ensure its survival and end the war on our terms. It will be dangerous but this is not new to you. However, it may be also distasteful for it requires that you resume your military career in the British army. Would you accept such a commission?

NED HICKEY

I have been told you are an honorable man, sir. In that belief, I have no reason to refuse any of your undertakings.

THOMAS JEFFERSON

Well said, Hickey. In this case, however, we nibble at the edges of dishonor, at least as we might have defined it in theoretical discussions of kinder times. I have decided that I can live with the manner of the project because I cannot conceive of a better recourse. We will put it to you for your own conscience to rule on it.

NED HICKEY

Thank you, sir.

Jefferson nods to Colonel Morgan, who explains the project to Ned. Jefferson picks up a document and reads as if his every moment is valuable.

DANIEL MORGAN

We need Cornwallis and his army at Yorktown for a few weeks longer and we believe that he is preparing to disengage his forces and embark by sea for the northern campaign. If we can persuade him to hold, we will have him. In order to achieve this, we must find a way to deliver false dispatches to Cornwallis from General Clinton in New York, dispatches which countermand previous instructions to evacuate and which promise him reinforcements. You are to be the messenger, Ned. You can put on the British uniform again, present yourself at Yorktown as the survivor of a party sent down from New York and see that Cornwall receives the orders which we want him to act on.

NED HICKEY

This cannot work, colonel. Apart from the difficulties of getting through undetected, how are we to write a dispatch which can be mistaken for the genuine article? How are we to obtain signatures? And I may well be recognized if any of my old regiment are at Yorktown.

DANIEL MORGAN

We know the practical problems, Ned, and we will deal with them. But the first essential is your agreement to work with us. Without that, there is no point in prolonging this meeting.

NED HICKEY

I will do whatever is needed. The truth is that I must look after some personal affairs in Ireland and the sooner the war is ended the better.

Despite appearances, Jefferson has obviously been listening.

THOMAS JEFFERSON

The problem of getting you through the British lines as a credible dispatch carrier is difficult but, with luck, you can succeed. We have devised a plan which has sufficient probability. The preparation of the dispatches in a form which will rouse no suspicion is more difficult but there are means available to us in the form of a British prisoner, a Captain FitzHenry, who will be told that he has been selected for execution in reprisal for the similar hanging of one or our officers by the British some weeks ago.

NED HICKEY

We do not execute prisoners, Mr Jefferson. Surely we do not need to do this?

THOMAS JEFFERSON

I have every reason to believe that we will not. We think, and I am confident the prisoner shares the belief, that a live coward will be more valuable than a dead hero. Captain FitzHenry is not by nature a fighting man. He has spent his military campaign as secretary to General Clinton in New York and only fell into our hands by misadventure. If we apply sufficient pressure he will save himself by writing a credible set of orders. We have the services of an excellent copier who will make an acceptable Clinton signature. It will be made clear to FitzHenry that his release will be entirely contingent on Cornwallis' acceptance of the orders as genuine. You will be part of that pressure, Ned. We will send you to FitzHenry as his bodyservant. You will guide him, if he allows, in the direction of his survival and you will learn all you can from him of his connections and procedures in order to maintain your disguise in the Cornwallis camp.

NED HICKEY

I don't know how many officers there are in the British army with the name FitzHenry. It may be that this man is known to me from Ireland and, if he is the same, I have a lever with which to bend him. We may just be lucky in this enterprise.

THOMAS JEFFERSON

Fortune favors the brave, they say. In which case I doubt if she will be on the side of Captain FitzHenry.

FADE OUT

INT. - PRISONER'S ROOMS - DAY

Ned is ushered in to FitzHenry's simple but comfortable prisoner's rooms by the guard.

NED HICKEY

Why, it is Captain FitzHenry from County Carlow, after all. I wondered if you were the one and the same, sir.

FITZHENRY

Ned?- Ned Hickey! Are you a prisoner also in this awful place?

NED HICKEY

Indeed I am, sir, and trying to make the best of it. They said they needed someone to look after you and I thought it better than staring at four walls. Besides, don't we have a few things in common?

FITZHENRY

I suppose we do, Hickey. The army has served you well. I knew it would be the making of you. Now see to my shirts and stockings, would you? I need to put up a good appearance before those thugs in gentlemen's clothes who take pleasure in torturing me with false threats and accusations. They have the temerity to tell me that they are about to hang me - an officer and a gentleman. Never heard of such a thing. It will not be allowed.

NARRATOR (VO)

As I look back at my life now, the good times and bad, it is clear to me that the very worst were the next ten days which I spent in the company of that arrogant, self-centered excuse for a gentleman. His contempt for Americans was only exceeded by his hatred for all things Irish. I could not find for him any element of pity for the fate which awaited him and yet was forced to play the servile role of sympathizer and confidant. After the announcement of the sentence of death by hanging which had been passed upon him, he, at first, was incredulous. That this should happen to one of his noble race was unthinkable. He refused to believe that the Americans would do as they had threatened. I suggested a stratagem to Colonel Pearce, who was in charge of the project, which might assist the Captain to an appreciation of the realities. And so it happened.

Ned is occupied polishing FitzHenry's boots under that gentleman's critical eye. There are sounds of sawing and hammering outside. FitzHenry pays no attention at first but, as it persists, expresses annoyance and goes to the barred window to look out at the assembly area.

FITZHENRY

What are they doing? What on earth are they building out there?

Ned works away silently. FitzHenry paces back and forth, wall to wall, restlessly, as the noise continues outside. He looks out again.

FITZHENRY

Good God. It is a gallows. They are building a gallows, Hickey. Come and see. Is that a gallows or am I mistaken?

NED HICKEY

(walks to the window) Indeed it is, sir. Not a very good one. We have many better back in Ireland. But it is certainly a gallows.

NARRATOR (VO)

I was his only apparently sympathetic contact and he began to voice his terror and use me as a sounding board in his search for an avenue of escape. I pretended shock at his predicament and horror that a person of his nobility should have his life and career so ended. I opened his mind to the futility of an early death and the promise of valuable services he might yet offer if he only survived.

FITZHENRY

This cannot be. It is not allowed. I am a gentleman. I thought they knew that. God help me, what am I to do? Is there any escape from here, Ned? Can you assist me? You will be well rewarded.

NED HICKEY

There has never been a good escape from here, Captain. Many a man has tried but there is only one road through a swamp full of alligators and that is heavily guarded. They have tracker dogs that follow a man like they would any animal. No, sir, that is not the way. I know you, sir. You can be a very persuasive man. Perhaps you can convince them as you did me to your way of thinking. You'll need to drive a hard bargain but maybe not impossible.

FITZHENRY

Yes, Hickey. You are not a stupid man after all. That is my only hope now.

FitzHenry sits at his table, deep in thought. Ned continues his work.

(later) Colonel Pearce enters the prisoner's room. FitzHenry is sitting at his desk with his head in his hands. Ned gives the colonel the nod that the time is right. He dismisses Ned and the guard and sits with Captain FitzHenry.

COLONEL PEARCE

Captain, this situation is new and abhorrent to me. I will, of course, comply with my orders when the time comes but I assure you that it is most distasteful.

FITZHENRY

You appear to be a gentleman, sir. Yet you involve yourself in this act. It is an outrage, sir. My family connections will prevail in this and secure not only my life but my freedom.

COLONEL PEARCE

I wish it were so simple, Captain. Unfortunately the approach has already been made and firmly denied. I'm afraid there is no recourse. Your death will serve as a warning to your people that hangings will not go unavenged. There is nothing personal here - only that you serve a purpose. (pause) The only possible solution would lie in finding a higher purpose, a greater benefit, if this were available. (pause) If you could offer any slight service which would mitigate against your execution, who knows?

FITZHENRY

Slight service, you say. Of what do you speak, sir? I will not be known as a traitor.

COLONEL PEARCE

Your honor is not in question here, Captain, I assure you, and treason is for matters of great moment. But there might be a small service which would be completely confidential and which would therefore never be allowed to affect the great future which we all expect for you in the service of the King. Surely such a proposal must be weighed carefully in the present unfortunate circumstances.

FITZHENRY

I really have a duty to return to my family. They would not live without me, Colonel Pearce.

COLONEL PEARCE

This has been a long war and will continue to drag on with minor confrontations favoring one side or the other. We both know that. We have an army in the north under General Washington which has been mauled many times by your troops and which we do not wish to see routed even if it has been rendered impotent to carry out any effective action. We believe that Lord Cornwallis is about to embark his southern army for New York with the intention of joining General Clinton to chase Washington out of the highlands. We would prefer to maintain the present situation for a time, let things consolidate, as it were.

FITZHENRY

How could I affect these plans - from here - even if I wished?

COLONEL PEARCE

You have been principal secretary to General Clinton since you arrived. You know procedures. You could cast your eye over a dispatch which we are writing to Lord Cornwallis ordering him not to come north at this time. We will see about its signature and delivery. All we might ask of you would be in the wording and presentation of a document which we are writing, with or without you. Should it be accepted as genuine and acted upon, I would undertake to ask my superiors for your freedom. You will not be responsible for the slight change of plan effected since the dispatch is already prepared and will be delivered, regardless of your assistance. All we ask is your attention to the details of how it is to be presented.

FitzHenry is silent. Colonel Pearce rises, as if to stretch his limbs, moves to the window. The hammering starts again.

FITZHENRY

I suppose - if it is as you say - no irreparable damage done. I would need a guarantee of freedom and confidentiality.

COLONEL PEARCE

I am empowered to give you those guarantees, Captain, as one gentleman to another, but effective only if Cornwallis is still in Yorktown one month from today. Shall we start immediately before events overtake us, either here or at Yorktown.

FITZHENRY

Very well, Colonel, if you will bring me the document.

(Later) Ned Hickey comes and goes in his role as Captain FitzHenry's servant while he and Colonel Pearce sit at a table, drafting and rewriting the dispatch. Once started, FitzHenry assists wholeheartedly in the preparation of the forgery.

FADE OUT

EXT. - SWAMPY FOREST - DAY

Montage of shots showing the difficulties and dangers of the travel, canoe on the water, portages overland, avoidance of all human contacts, parting with the guides and proceeding alone and on foot, now in British uniform for last lap of the journey.

NARRATOR (VO)

With the dispatches safely wrapped in oilcloth and strapped to my chest and armed with a directive to a fictitious Captain Esmonde to convey the dispatches into the hands of Lord Cornwall, I set out to approach Yorktown from the north as if I came from New York. In the early stages, I traveled with two experienced backwoodsmen posing as trappers, by Indian canoe and on foot, making our way north east through lands already ravaged and partially abandoned because of the various campaigns fought over them. I intended to cover the last hundred miles alone and, saying goodbye to my companions, I turned south towards the British lines. Three days later, I called out to a British patrol and embraced them as my saviors. They passed me rapidly on through the chain of command and to Lord Cornwallis' headquarters.

CUT TO:

INT. - CORNWALLIS' HEADQUARTERS - DAY

Ned Hickey is escorted by Lord Cornwallis' secretary to the drawing-room of the commandeered mansion which now serves as Lord Cornwallis' headquarters. Cornwallis and two officers stand at a table littered with maps and documents.

LORD CORNWALLIS

What is it, man. You know we are occupied with the embarkation.

CORNWALLIS SECRETARY

An urgent dispatch, my lord, from General Clinton.

The secretary lays Ned Hickey 's dispatches on the table. Cornwallis motions him to open them. He does. Cornwallis reads. His face lights up.

LORD CORNWALLIS

Great news, gentlemen. Read and be comforted. (to Ned Hickey) Well done, soldier. What has become of this Captain Esmonde?

NED HICKEY

Tis a long story, melord. But the fact is we were caught by some of the militiamen in an ambush and poor Captain Esmonde was badly hit. He charged me with the task of completing the mission and I hope that it's now done to your honour's satisfaction.

Ned is indeed in poor shape but puts on an act of fainting with exhaustion.

NED HICKEY

(continues) I will tell you the whole adventure from beginning to end, but, if it please your lordship, after I have some rest and food.

LORD CORNWALLIS

We may not have time for the recital, soldier. (to the secretary) Look after this man for us. He has done a valuable service and with a few thousand more like him on the way, we will take back the colonies in short order.

Ned is escorted out. The officers draw in to make new plans.

NARRATOR (VO)

(montage of shots of war) Luck comes in waves, I've noticed. The trouble is we never know when it is about to turn. I would have taken my leave of the British immediately but there was a grave danger that Cornwallis or one of his officers might take the notion of hearing the details of our mission whether from idle curiosity or any suspicion. I had to remain visible and available if the plan was to work. So I was attached to an under-strength platoon of the infantry and went to work digging the trenches and emplacements which, under the new orders, were to defend Yorktown in case of attack. Spirits were high. There was no immediate threat from the American land forces. The British fleet controlled Chesapeake Bay. Cornwallis and his army were secure in their present circumstances and confident of a successful campaign to come. When rumors came of a French fleet on its way across the Atlantic there was some uncertainty as to the point at which they might try to land, New York or the south. But the British had controlled the seas in recent years and expected to blow the frogs out of the water quickly. Admiral Hood could not wait to engage with them and took his fleet out of the Chesapeake to meet the French on the high seas. Sadly, he did not sight them and, in his absence, they sailed into Chesapeake Bay with 24 ships of the line, including many transporters of infantry-men, cannon and munitions. When Hood returned after his fruitless search, the French fleet sent him packing with superior firepower and a lucky off-shore wind. Hood was forced to retire to New York to refit, leaving Cornwallis to his own devices. When the French slipped upstream above Yorktown in the night, Cornwallis was in real danger. His doom was sealed when General Washington left New York and came south by forced marches to encircle Yorktown with overwhelming numbers and armament. The British fought bravely under the greatest bombardment yet seen in the Americas but had no alternative but to surrender. We marched out of Yorktown into prison camps and the Revolution was won.

FADE OUT

EXT. - KILKENNY STREET \- DAY

**(One year later) Ned Hickey and many others are demobbed** **from the army after repatriation from America. Their uniform** **coats are taken from them at the gate of Kilkenny barracks** **and they rush into the streets, hurrooing and larking like** **children. An unruly mob, they knock on doors, peer into** **windows, surround the women, frighten the horses and cause** **pandemonium in the town.**

INT. - KILKENNY PUB - DAY

Some of the soldiers are intent on getting drunk as completely as possible. Ned is anxious to get moving and go home.

NED HICKEY

Another jug each of this best Kilkenny beer and we'll make a start. If we walk through the cool of this moonlit night we'll all be home by daybreak.

DEMOBBED SOLDIER

Sure, what's your hurry, Ned? She's waited five years or she hasn't. A few more hours'll make no difference at all.

NED HICKEY

Have ye no home to go to? One more for the road and I'm off.

They lower their drinks, take their leave of all the others, promise to see each other again and go out into the street.

CUT TO:

EXT. - ROADWAY - DAY

They start to march, out of habit, then realize what they are doing and fall out of step as if embarrassed. At first they hoot and act like larrikins but gradually their numbers diminish as, one by one, they reach the roads and lanes leading to their old homes. Only two are left and they are getting tired. They stop for a drink under a bridge over a rocky stream.

DEMOBBED SOLDIER

Have you ever played at bowls, Ned. It's a great way to travel a long road.

NED HICKEY

Indeed I have and I'll take you on any time.

They pick out two rounded stones from the stream, check that they are similar in weight, climb back to the road and start lofting the stones down the road in competition.

NED HICKEY

(gaily) The man to reach Drea's tavern at Fenagh with the most throws will buy the drinks - and it won't be me.

They throw and walk, throw and run, out of the scene, arguing and laughing.

FADE OUT

EXT. - HICKEY'S COTTAGE - DAY

(dawn) Ned Hickey breaks into a run as he sights the cottage, then slows and hesitates as he enters the yard. It is early. There is no sign of life except a trickle and smell of smoke from the chimney. He braces himself, knocks, at first quietly and, failing a response, more and more desperately. A voice from inside.

ANDY HICKEY

For the love of God, who is it at this time of the morning? Can a man not sleep around here any more?

The cottage door opens. Andy appears, sleepy, disheveled, disoriented. He looks and looks again.

NED HICKEY

'Tis only me, Andy. I'm sorry if I frightened you.

ANDY HICKEY

Ned, Ned. I'm dreaming still. Is it you yourself?

Andy reaches out almost fearfully, touches Ned on the arm, leaps out to him and hugs him tight. They cry, embrace, kiss each other's cheeks, and dance about the yard, Andy still in his nightshirt. Doors open in neighbors cottages and all the community of Ballon Hill are soon assembled in Hickey's yard, marveling at the wanderer's safe return.

(later)

ANDY HICKEY

Will you let the man have some breakfast? Can't you see the cut of him. Sure there'll be time enough for the talking tonight and you're all welcome. (to Ned) Come inside, man and take your ease. I'll put on the kettle and we'll get you to bed. Come in, Ned. Come in.

NED HICKEY

There's a thing I must do before I rest. I'll go down to Proctor's and ask their forgiveness for disappearing on them.

ANDY HICKEY

Too late, Ned. Sure old Proctor died years ago and his wife moved back up north to her own people.

NED HICKEY

And Betsy Maher? What of her?

ANDY HICKEY

I don't know for sure. I think I heard she moved back to live with her brothers in Ardristan, to look after her mother, as I recall. Who knows where she might be now.

NED HICKEY

That's where I'll go then.

ANDY HICKEY

What's the hurry? Oh, yes, now I remember. Well, at least have some breakfast with me before you set off again.

They go into the cottage.

FADE OUT

EXT. - MAHER'S FARMYARD - DAY

Ned walks over the bogs to the Maher farm which is now more like a village, with three houses for the extended family. He meets the older brother, Tom.

NED HICKEY

Tom, I'm glad to see you, looking well .... It's Ned, Ned Hickey. (Tom is not responding) .... surely you remember me.

TOM MAHER

Ned Hickey, I remember you well. You've filled out and there are the marks of living on you. You've come back at last.

NED HICKEY

Yes, Tom. I'm back and a lot has happened over the years.

TOM MAHER

You left a lot of pain behind you when you disappeared so suddenly. Could you not have done it better? Are you expecting all that to be forgotten?

NED HICKEY

No, Tom. I'm not expecting or deserving anything but if there is any hope, I have to follow it. Any explanation I have will not be for you but for Betsy, if she will hear me.

Betsy hears the voices in the yard and appears in the door of one of the houses to see who is there. She starts to run, then stops, walks quietly to stand beside her brother.

BETSY MAHER

I thought I heard the voice. You're back, Ned.

NED HICKEY

I need to tell you how it all happened, Betsy. Will you hear me? Please.

Tom looks at Betsy for her signal, then walks slowly inside. Betsy and Ned talk in the yard for a long time. He sags, walks to the gate and turns back. Ned gesticulates, paces back and forth, sometimes looking at Betsy, other times staring away into the distance. Betsy stands still, arms folded, hearing him out. Tom comes out to look at them anxiously, sees them embrace and walk back towards the house. Betsy's mother, now a frail old woman, her other brothers and Tom's young wife and children gather round the pair, in a watchful, protective way.

BETSY MAHER

Ned has told me all there is to know about his going and his return. He has asked me to marry him and I have said yes. We will marry as soon as we can get a priest for we have wasted too much time already. And you will love him as I do or see me angry. Now, bring the man inside for he has walked many a long mile to be here today.

They go into the cottage shared by Betsy and her mother

FADE OUT

INT. - BETSY'S COTTAGE \- DAY

Betsy sees Ned's exhaustion and takes him into the cottage where he sits on a settlebed. It is now late evening. She makes tea for him and gives him bread. Her mother sits by the open fire, tending the black kettle hanging from the crane and the Dutch oven on the ashes beside the fire. Ned stands up to get another cup of tea. Betsy notices him limping badly, brings him the tea.

BETSY MAHER

What ails you, Ned? You were not limping earlier.

NED HICKEY

'Tis nothing. Just a few blisters from the walking. I should've stopped along the way to wash my feet and rinse out the stockings. My old sergeant would have killed me for neglecting my feet but six weeks on the ship took all the marching out of me.

BETSY MAHER

Right then, get your boots off and we'll see how bad it is.

Ned is reluctant, is not accustomed to being fussed over. Betsy insists, kneels down in front of him, unlaces the boots and takes them off. Ned winces but protests no further. She then attempts to take off his stockings but they are stuck to his skin.

BETSY MAHER

We'll have to soak them off. Stay there, Ned Hickey

.NED HICKEY

(smiles wryly) Sure where could I go without me boots?

Betsy takes a basin and fills it with boiling water from the black kettle. She looks at her mother as she does so. The mother says nothing, throws her eyes to heaven as if acknowledging an inevitable outcome, then smiles an acceptance. Betsy tempers the hot water by ladling cold from a wooden bucket inside the door. She places the basin on the floor, takes one stockinged foot after the other and lowers them into the basin.

NED HICKEY

You don't have to do this, Betsy. I can look after myself.

BETSY MAHER

Don't I know that. I'm sure your sergeant didn't go around washing your feet, did he? But you're home now. Get used to being looked after.

Betsy sees the blood seeping into the water. She takes off the socks slowly but decisively, never looking up at Ned until they are off. Only then does he see that she is crying. She dashes away her tears, sniffs, puts a towel on the floor for him to rest his feet on, takes the basin outside and pours the bloodstained water deliberately on a rose outside the door. Betsy refills the basin, pours some salt into it and puts Ned's feet again in the water. She massages and washes them gently. When she looks up again, Ned has slumped in the corner of the settle and is fast asleep. She dries his feet and raises his legs on to the settle to make him comfortable. She empties the basin and refills it with cold water. She rinses his socks over and over until the water is clear, then hangs them to dry on the crane over the fire.

BETSY MAHER

Are you thinking I'm mad, mother, taking him back like that? You're sitting there shaking your head and sighing as if the world was coming to an end.

The mother takes Betsy's hand, pulls her down to her and kisses her gently on the cheek.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. - BETSY'S COTTAGE \- NIGHT

(Nightfall, same day) Ned is asleep, drugged with exhaustion. Betsy sits by the fire darning his socks. Her mother and she are silent, wrapped in their thoughts. Tom enters, joins them at the fire.

TOM MAHER

Are you two going to be alright here tonight? Is he staying?

BETSY MAHER

We'll be alright, Tom. Don't we have another man to look after us? Mind you, I doubt if he would wake up now if Gabriel blew his trumpet. Would you give me a hand with him though. He looks very uncomfortable there on the bare boards. You lift him up while I open the settle. At least he'll have a mattress to lie on.

Tom looks at their mother who nods agreement. Tom lifts Ned up bodily and stands back while Betsy opens the settle to form a bed upon the floor. They lower Ned into it. He stirs restlessly but does not waken. Betsy covers him with a blanket and pushes her reluctant brother out the door. She sits again by the fire and waits. Her mother sighs, gathers her things, puts her hand on Betsy's shoulder, says goodnight and goes up to her room and her bed. Betsy puts turf on the fire, covers it with the ashes, lowers the kettle above it and generally fiddles about while making a decision. Then she stands by the settle, watches and listens to Ned sleeping, strips down to her shift. She steps in to the bed and lies beside Ned, gently pulls the blanket over her and lies watching him breathe into her face. She finally falls asleep.

FADE OUT

INT. - BETSY'S COTTAGE \- DAY

(dawn) Betsy is awake, She looks at Ned, still sleeping, smiles ruefully and gets up quietly. She dresses and tends the fire, makes tea and takes a cup to her mother in the room. She is sitting at the table when Ned wakes and orients himself to his strange surroundings. He climbs out of the settle, walks gingerly to the table.

BETSY MAHER

So, you're finally awake then. Don't you ever be ashamed of yourself, lying around while the woman does all the work?

Ned says nothing. He seems troubled. Betsy pours a cup of tea for him and places the bread on the table. She sits down again and looks at him in amusement.

NED HICKEY

I dreamt last night. At least I think it was a dream. I thought you were lying beside me in the settle.

BETSY MAHER

(mock sternly) Shame on you, Ned Hickey. You have spent too long among the heathen and their wild women. I never heard of such a thing. Don't you even think about it until we're married.

**Ned is confused. She leans across and kisses him, suddenly** **serious again.**

NED HICKEY

I'm sorry, Betsy. But it seemed so real. When can we get married, do you think? Will you come over with me to see the priest ... today?

BETSY MAHER

I'm not walking the streets of Ballon with a cripple on my arm. (pause) But I'll have a word with Tom. Maybe he'll yoke up the horse and drive us over in style. Father Quinn will see to it.

Tom comes in, sits at the table with them. He is still protective of Betsy.

TOM MAHER

Are you two still thinking of getting married, then?

BETSY MAHER

No, Tom. We've stopped thinking about it. You're coming over with us today to see the priest and give your blessing and we'll be wed as soon as it can be done. Sure Father Quinn is used to rushed weddings and for all sorts of reasons.

Tom studies them both, considers objecting, gives up on the idea and accepts the inevitable. He saves face by demanding a concession.

TOM MAHER

(to Ned) I'll be dropping you off at your brother's then.

Betsy starts to object but Ned leaps in quickly.

NED HICKEY

Aye, Tom. That will be kind of you. I have a few things to sort out there anyway.

TOM MAHER

Right, then. I'll get out the horse and we'll be off.

Tom goes out. Betsy rounds on Ned.

BETSY MAHER

Do I not have a say in this? I know what Tom is at, trying to protect my reputation, no less. As if I cared. And you let him separate us again.

NED HICKEY

Tom is a good man, Betsy. He loves you too and he is the head of the family. So, let's go along with him this time if only to make peace for I know he distrusts me yet.

BETSY MAHER

My God, when will I be my own woman?

NED HICKEY

When I become my own man, Betsy. I promise ye.

Her mother comes in. Betsy winks at Ned. He puts on his socks and boots gingerly as Betsy sees to her mother's breakfast. Ned goes down on one knee beside the mother. She puts her hands on his and smiles. Ned and Betsy go out to meet Tom.

FADE OUT

EXT. - HICKEY'S COTTAGE - DAY

Tom Maher drives into Hickey's yard with Ned and Betsy. Andy is at the door.

ANDY HICKEY

Failte roibh go leir. 'Tis a fine day for it, whatever it is.

Ned climbs down from the cart, turns to help Betsy but Tom beats him to it. Betsy shakes her head. Tom goes across the yard to water the horse.

NED HICKEY

(looks pointedly at Tom across the yard) Andy, Betsy, there are things I will tell you and nobody else about my time in America. You will never talk about them to anyone, not even Tom. My life will depend on it. (to Andy) Andy, this is Betsy Maher. The same Betsy we knew at Proctors but different. She has agreed to be my wife and we are to be married on Wednesday - a week today. Father Quinn has agreed to cut out all the rigmarole. Says we have waited long enough.

ANDY HICKEY

Sure I'll wish you every happiness but who did the match for you, Ned? Does she bring her dowry?

NED HICKEY

It never crossed our minds, Andy and shame on you for raising the matter.

BETSY MAHER

A woman should bring something, Ned, and I thought my little cottage as a place for us to live wouldn't be slighted.

ANDY HICKEY

Like you say, Betsy. I'll go talk to Tom about it, just to make things formal.

Andy walks over to Tom. They converse a while and shake hands. They walk back to Ned and Betsy.

BETSY MAHER

Well, have you two sold me off then?

ANDY HICKEY

Tom tells me there's no point in shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted. Am I invited to the wedding then?

BETSY MAHER

Of course you are, Andy. I'm sure Ned would have no one else.

ANDY HICKEY

There's something else in case you have given thought to small matters like earning a living. Sir Philip heard in the village that you were home, Ned, and came up here looking for you. He wants you to go over to Ballintemple. Said something about settling an old debt.

TOM MAHER

We'd best be on our way, Betsy. You'll have a lot to do to get ready. We'll see you on Wednesday then, boys.

Tom goes to help Betsy up on the cart. She holds her hand out to Ned, kisses him full on the mouth, smiles sweetly at Tom and Andy and leaps up nimbly with assistance from neither. Tom climbs up beside her and they trundle out of the yard.

ANDY HICKEY

By God, Ned. You have a live one there and no mistake.

Ned doesn't argue. They go in to the cottage together.

FADE OUT

EXT. - COURTYARD, BALLINTEMPLE ESTATE - DAY

Ned is waiting in the courtyard of Ballintemple House. Sir Philip comes quickly to meet him. He looks more mature.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Ned, I was delighted to hear you were home safe from the wars. You're looking well man. I hope the spell in the army suited you.

NED HICKEY

Sir Philip, let me just say I'm glad to be home.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

I'm sure you are, Ned. My brother Peirce writes me occasionally from the Carolinas. He has done well there with plantations and ships but I must say there is no place for me like Carlow.

NED HICKEY

(pause) Am I still an embarrassment to you, Sir Philip?

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

An embarrassment, Ned? Surely not. Whatever makes you ask that?

NED HICKEY

The way you and FitzHenry shunted me off to the army and America.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

FitzHenry told me you volunteered.

NED HICKEY

He told me to go or be hanged along with my brother. Call that volunteering?

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

(pause) The man used us all, Ned. Come, sit over here in the sunshine. There is a certain breed of man, Ned, who knows no principle or belief beyond his own immediate advantage. I regret to say that Lieutenant FitzHenry is an outstanding example. I am ashamed beyond measure of my conduct which led to your involvement. I will forever be in your debt for attending to Bruce Dysart even if it served to settle old scores for you. I had no part in sending you away for I would have bet my life on your integrity and can only hope that you will believe me in that.

NED HICKEY

Captain FitzHenry now, Sir Philip. He is reaping the rewards he works for.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Ned, I asked your brother to have you call on me because I have a need for a man of your quality. I am away too much at Parliament and other business. There is also a tide of conflict swelling in Ireland, partly as a result of the Americans' victory, partly out of republican sentiments in France. Worse still, a fear among those who feel so threatened by the ideas of liberty that liberal thinking, such as mine, endangers their supremacy. I am fast being seen as an enemy by the Tories, the Burtons and the remaining Dysarts. What I need, then, is a man who will act as my personal steward in all things, the running of the estate, the good relations with tenants, even the protection of my wife and family. I try earnestly to narrow the inevitable gap between this landlord and his people. In my fantasies of the future, I even see this structure dissolve and the gap become history. But there will be a hard and perhaps cruel transition and I know no one I would trust more to help us through the difficult times. (pause) Will you accept?

NED HICKEY

I am out of touch here, Sir Philip. It may be that I will never be the same again in the eyes of my friends and neighbors after my time away. But, I will do what I can to keep the peace for I surely am sick of war. I am to be married on Wednesday. My loyalties may not be always undivided.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Congratulations, Ned. I'm happy for you. Who is the lucky woman?

NED HICKEY

Tis Betsy Maher. You might remember her from her time with the Proctors. We had an understanding before and, God be thanked, she waited for me.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

(Slaps Ned on the back). I know the family well. Good and honest people. She'll be good for you, Ned. Now, come inside and have a drink to celebrate everything.

They walk toward the house, Sir Philip gesticulating and excited.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

The wedding will be at Mahers? I'll send Mary, our cook, over to offer any assistance with the celebration - she'll help with the cooking, bring over some cutlery, extra table-cloths, all the usual wedding supplies. If they need extra provisions, food or liquid, they have only to let her know. Is it alright if I make an appearance? This a new start for us all, Ned. Come and drink to it.

FADE OUT

EXT. - MAHER'S FARMYARD - DAY

(Afternoon on the wedding day) The guests, children, dogs mill around the cooking fires. People who have not met for years are renewing acquaintance. Ned, with Andy at his side, is circulating. He is congratulated and wellwished by all the guests.

Betsy emerges from her cottage, armlinked with her brother Tom. She is dressed in blue silk with lace at neck and sleeves. She wears a wreath of flowers on her head. The crowd cheers and rushes to greet her. Only the priest remains. He takes up a position on the steps of the barn, takes a stole from his pocket and puts it round his neck. Ned and Betsy walk toward him followed by the crowd. He calls Ned forward. Ned kneels before him. The priest bends over him. There is a murmured conversation and the priest blesses him. Betsy comes forward as Ned moves back beside Andy. Again, the murmur and the blessing. The priest beckons Ned forward to kneel beside Betsy. The priest takes a pyx from a pocket and gives communion to both Ned and Betsy. They stand for the marriage ceremony.

FATHER QUINN

My dear people, this is a happy day. We are here to be witnesses to the marriage of Ned and Betsy. Please join with me in the ceremony of our beloved church. (pause) Edward Hickey, do you take Elizabeth Maher, here present, for your lawful wife?

NED HICKEY

(smiles at bride) I do.

FATHER QUINN

Elizabeth Maher, do you take Edward Hickey, here present, for your lawful husband?

BETSY MAHER

I do, indeed I do.

FATHER QUINN

Who gives this woman in holy matrimony?

Tom takes Betsy's hand off his arm and places it on the arm of Ned.

FATHER QUINN

Now, join your right hands.

The priest wraps the end of his stole loosely around their joined hands.

FATHER QUINN

Now repeat after me. I, -Edward - Elizabeth -, take thee, -Elizabeth - Edward -, for my lawful, husband - wife -, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part. By the authority of our holy Church, I bless the marriage you have contracted, in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Andy produces a gold wedding ring. The priest makes a sign of the cross over it and blesses it. Ned puts it on Betsy's finger.

FATHER QUINN

Let us pray together. May Almighty God bless you and unite your hearts forever.

The priest takes off his stole, signaling the end of the ceremony, shakes hands with Ned and Betsy, Andy and Tom Maher. The crowd cheers and closes in to congratulate them. The children have been given some wheat grain which they throw over them. Ned leads Betsy through the crowd to her mother who is seated in the doorway of the barn. They kiss her gently and she lays hands on them as if adding her own blessing.

TOM MAHER

(from the barn door, to the crowd) Right, then, come and peel your own, for that's all you're getting.

The crowd press into the barn, following Ned and Betsy.

CUT TO:

INT. - MAHER'S BARN - DAY

The barn has been emptied of all agricultural equipment, swept clean, walls whitewashed and green boughs attached to the rafters. The double doors, front and rear are open to the light. Tables have been assembled in line down the long axis. Table cloths have been procured with cutlery and dinner settings from Sir Philip, neighbours, friends. There are hams and geese, breads of many types (soda, barmbrack, boxty etc) to be admired before they are whipped away for the carving and serving. The guests note with approval the barrels of porter, ale and a keg of whisky, all tapped and waiting. A glass of wine is poured at each place. A fiddler and a piper are seated at one corner waiting for the signal.

TOM MAHER

Well, you know there is no potato like an Ardristan potato, but we did manage to gather a few other things for you. But first, will you all raise your glasses and drink to my sister, Betsy, and to Ned Hickey, who is welcome back among us. May they live long and happy.

The toast is drunk and the guests sort themselves at the table. Father Quinn is at the head, despite token protest. Ned and Betsy at each side, followed by old Mrs Maher, Tom and his brothers, and Andy opposite. The volunteer servers bring heaped plates of meat. The musicians strike up some traditional airs and the celebration continues.

FADE OUT

INT. - MAHER'S BARN - NIGHT

The tables are now cleared and taken away. The floor is open for the dancing. Father Quinn is seen to take his leave with a last blessing on the gathering. The musicians strike up a slow traditional dance - The Rinnce Fada. Betsy digs Ned in the ribs with her elbow and he leads her out hesitantly in the complicated dance. They do a turn and the guests join them. (later) The ice is broken. Dancers whirl in reels and set-dances. The drink is flowing but good-nature prevails. (later, toward midnight) Ned and Betsy attempt to leave. The crowd obstructs them playfully. They slip away quietly and go into the cottage. The music and the dancing continue in the distance.

FADE OUT

INT. - BETSY'S COTTAGE \- NIGHT

Ned and Betsy enter her bedroom in the cottage. They are happy, excited, nervous. In the candlelight they kiss. Betsy breaks away.

BETSY MAHER

Ned, love. That was a lovely wedding and Father Quinn was great, but there is something else I want said. Do you mind?

NED HICKEY

What is it, Betsy? Haven't we said it all?

BETSY MAHER

My mother once showed me the pledge she made with my father when they couldn't find a priest to marry them, back in the bad times. It's a traditional thing but lovely in its way and I would like to share it with you. Will you do it?

NED HICKEY

If it means so much, of course I will.

BETSY MAHER

Here it is then, copied from my mother's old bible. I'll start, then maybe you'll come in at the end? Ned, I pledge to you the first bite of my food and the first drink from my cup. I pledge to you that yours will be the name I cry aloud in the night and the eyes into which I smile in the morning. I pledge to you my living and my dying, each equally in your care.

NED HICKEY

I shall be the shield for your back and you for mine. I shall not slander you, nor you me. I shall honor you above all others, and when we quarrel we shall do so in private and tell no strangers our grievances. (both) This is my wedding vow to you. This is the marriage of equals.

They move together and kiss, at first to seal the promises then with growing hunger.

Just then, a great knocking at the door and window, lights from just outside, shouting and hurrooing. They look out the bedroom window and see grotesque figures capering and yelling in the yard.

BETSY MAHER

Oh, God. 'Tis the strawboys, come to annoy us. They will stay for hours.

NED HICKEY

That's easy fixed. I'll scare the living daylights ...

BETSY MAHER

No, Ned. 'Twould bring us the worst of bad luck. Sure, only for that, Tom and the others would have chased them away. (pause) I know what. Just do as I say, soldier man, and we'll win out yet. Just pick up a blanket or two and follow me.

They go out through the darkened kitchen and into the mother's bedroom at the other end of the house. Betsy's mother is already in bed in the moonlit room. Betsy bends over her in the bed and whispers. Her mother laughs, her hand over her mouth. Betsy kisses her and beckons to Ned who is now getting worried by the turn of events. Betsy looks out the window which opens out into the orchard at the back of the house. She raises the lower half quietly and signals Ned to go through. He nods courteously to the giggling mother, clambers across her bed and struggles out the small window, headfirst.

CUT TO:

EXT. - MAHER ORCHARD AND FARM - NIGHT

Ned lands painfully in a gooseberry bush underneath the window. He swears, the mother bursts out laughing, Betsy shushes them both and climbs out expertly, feet and bum first. They make their escape in the shadows of the trees and, coming to the open fields they run through the moonlight, gasping with laughter.

FADE OUT

EXT. - ON THE SLANEY RIVER - NIGHT

They walk down a steep and winding path between massive rocks and stop at the bank of the river. There is a tiny island in midstream. Ned is not familiar with it but Betsy knows it well.

BETSY MAHER

Many a time we came down here in the night, me and the brothers, sneaking out through the same very window, when we were small. I thought it was enchanted. All Tom and the boys wanted was the occasional salmon they could take from the pool. We were lucky we were never caught by the gamekeepers. The mother would cook it up next day and serve it up to my father, God rest him, and he would eat it without a word. If anyone came in while we were eating, he would invite them heartily to have some chicken. Sure the word "salmon" never passed our lips. So, let's find out, husband, if the magic is really there.

Betsy stands in the moonlight, takes off her wedding dress, folds it carefully. She takes off all her clothes, wraps them in the blanket. She steps into the current and wades out into waist-deep water. She holds her clothes above her head and turns to Ned who watches in astonishment and wonder.

BETSY MAHER

Ned, are you coming with me or am I to spend my wedding night alone?

Ned recovers his wits, turns around and strips down, picks up his clothes and steps into the cold Slaney water. It is only a short distance to the island but the current is strong. He is only too conscious of Betsy watching and waiting for him. As he emerges from the water, she walks along the beach which surrounds the tiny island. He follows and she is sitting on the blanket at the downstream end in a tiny sandy bay. Ned takes courage from hers and sits beside her, takes her carefully in his arms. She pulls the blanket over them both.

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. - ON THE SLANEY RIVER - DAY

Dawn has broken over the idyllic scene. Betsy stirs and lies for a moment absorbing the sights and sounds of the river. She steals out of the blanket and, more circumspect in the daylight, she puts on her shift and goes down to the river to wash. When she returns, Ned is awake and watching her. He reaches out for her hand and tries to draw her down to him.

BETSY MAHER

Ned, not here in broad daylight. God, me mother always said the quiet ones were the worst and you are the quietest.

They settle down. Betsy kisses him quietly.

BETSY MAHER

Did you feel the old people all around us last night? I always do when I come to this place. Many's the time I came here to sit and think about you and they sat with me and lifted my loneliness.

NED HICKEY

Maybe those were the times when I couldn't get you out of my mind over there. Betsy, I do love you and I swear we'll never be separated again. Maybe we should be getting back or we'll have Tom chasing us up as if we were still courting.

BETSY MAHER

Yes, I suppose. Promise me, Ned, we'll come down here betimes, maybe when reality becomes too much.

NED HICKEY

.All my life I've lived every moment seriously, in my father's house of mourning, in Proctor's house of prayer and then in the armies of destruction. Be patient with me, Betsy, and I'll learn how to enjoy the gifts of life.

BETSY MAHER

And won't I enjoy teaching you! Put a shirt on, you shameless man and let's make a start.

FADE OUT

INT. - SITTINGROOM, PHILADELPHIA, 1826 - DAY

NARRATOR (VO)

So it was that I found extraordinary happiness and contentment in doing ordinary things. Betsy and I were as happy as lovebirds. Her cottage was a haven to which I came home each evening with joy and thanksgiving. If, over the years, the children did not come for us, it was not for lack of effort. Betsy never complained, nor did I, and in the way that things transpire, it provided an opportunity which we never foresaw. Sir Philip and I developed a trust and friendship which was never shaken, even in the terrible years which were to follow. The Butler estate prospered and I developed the financial skills which I clearly lacked at the beginning. The tenants were given a new security in their tenancies and so made investments in their farms and houses which benefited them personally and the estate as a whole. It was a model which, if it only had been followed, might well have made peace possible. Looking back now, my years at Ballintemple estate gave me all the experience which has led us to the prosperity we now enjoy. But the storm-clouds gathered, particularly after the failed invasion by the French in 1796. The Tories, driven by fear, organized a campaign of terror against anyone who sympathized with the new movement coming out of Ulster, the United Irishmen who combined North and South, Protestant and Catholic, in a movement for political liberty and economic freedom from England. It scared the gentry witless. Andy, of course, took to the ideals of the new movement like a duck to water.

CUT TO:

INT. - HICKEY'S COTTAGE - NIGHT

Andy and Ned sit by the fire. Andy is excited and persuasive. Ned listens sceptically.

ANDY HICKEY

I tell you, Ned, this is the salvation of Ireland. At last we have a partner for the Catholics. The Presbyterians of the North are as sick of English rule as we are. They are just as convinced of the injustice of paying tithes to the established government church as we are. They are leading the republican movement and opening doors for Catholics to join their vision of a free and united Ireland. Will you not join us? You have all the qualities and experience we desperately need.

NED HICKEY

I have no great faith in these grand plans, Andy. England will never let Ireland go, especially now that they are scared out of their wits by the revolution in France. A republican government in Ireland is not an option.

ANDY HICKEY

England will not decide our future forever. This is our Ireland and not to be administered at their pleasure. We can take it from them with help from the French.

NED HICKEY

And you expect the French to go home satisfied after they liberate Ireland. You're dreaming, Andy. You will need to keep a French army and navy here in Ireland indefinitely to stop the English from coming back. You'll swap one foreigner for another and the way the revolution is heading, I'm not sure we'd be any better off.

ANDY HICKEY

If we let this chance go by, we will have no other. I know you're not afraid to fight. Is it that you have become too comfortable in the service of the Butlers?

A painful silence follows which Andy ends with a gesture of apology

NED HICKEY

Andy, you have great dreams of changing the system from the top down. I've been working for years alongside Sir Philip to change it from the bottom up. And we have changed it here on this estate. We have shown that an Irish landlord can prosper on the basis of fair and enlightened dealings with his tenants and neighbors. Others will follow. What have you got against Sir Philip other than that he's Protestant? That's not enough, Andy, in your dream of a tolerant society and you know it.

ANDY HICKEY

He owns the land, Ned. Therefore he owns us. I don't want his liberal kindness. I need justice.

NED HICKEY

And you will turn the world upside down in the hope, and it is only a hope, that when the pieces are put back together, there will be a new pattern of perfect peace. Look at the realities, Andy. You will take on the might of an English professional army, supported by almost every landowner in Ireland, each with his own volunteer armed militia, backed by the authorities of our own Catholic Church. And all you have to call on is an unarmed, untrained, undisciplined bunch of farmers. It'll be a slaughter, Andy, and I will have no part in it.

ANDY HICKEY

You fought alongside the Ulster Presbyterians in America and won. What's so different now, here in your own country?

NED HICKEY

Over there, every man had a rifle gun and experience of using it in the French and Indian wars. There was the opportunity of hitting and running in the vast interior. The time and place for battle was of our choosing. There was a population virtually undivided where loyalists to the crown were easily isolated. There was no church authority bought off by the promise of a relaxation of injustice. Do I need to go on? And if I did, would it make any difference?

ANDY HICKEY

No, Ned. It would make no difference. However good your analysis, the fact remains that we must come out or the very idea of liberty will be lost forever. It's been over a hundred years since we last struck a blow. Even if we lose, as you believe we must, they can only kill the body. The memory will not die but will rise again and again until it finally prevails. We are only the custodians of that spirit. Can you not feel that, Ned?

NED HICKEY

I'm sorry, Andy. I'm just a soldier. I've seen too much.

They lapse into silence, share another drink and stare into the flames. (Later) Ned stands, puts on his coat.

ANDY HICKEY

Remember, Ned. Your man, Sir Philip is a popular landlord but when it all starts he will be in danger from both sides. The Tories hate him for being liberal. The landless people hate all landlords. I will do what I can but the moderates will suffer from both sides.

NED HICKEY

I know, Andy. That's why I am training a group of men to defend him and his estate and why I'm moving into the gatehouse at Ballintemple. I'm not too fussed if some of the men are sworn into the United Irishmen as long as I know they are honorable. I have no fear that you, for instance, would order the murder of Sir Philip. There should be no conflict that I cannot resolve between their duties and loyalties. Are we agreed on that, at least?

ANDY HICKEY

Agreed, Ned. Freedom first, land-rights later. Good luck to you, and remember this - the burst will come on the day the Dublin coach fails to arrive at Carlow.

FADE OUT

INT. - SITTINGROOM, PHILADELPHIA, 1826 – DAY

Ned Hickey gets up from his desk, paces the floor in agitation, looks without seeing out the window.

NARRATOR (VO)

Living through it then, it seemed like a chaotic jumble of unverified reports, rumors, incidents. We could not make sense of it all. The absence of good information bred panic in some and unreasonable hope in many others. The arrests of virtually all the leaders of the United Irishmen in Dublin elated a few and depressed the many. For me, it only confirmed what I had feared, that the movement was riddled with spies and informers. General FitzHenry, yes, my old nemesis, had been given charge of all military and civil operations in Kilkenny and Carlow and had granted free rein to the Tory gentlemen and their armed militia to discover and exterminate rebels where and how they saw fit. Their tortures were the tried and true - floggings, half-hangings to slow death and a new variation of cruelty, the pitch-capping of suspects with a mixture of gunpowder and pitch in their hair. Few withheld information with a torch to their heads.

**(montage of shots depicting the tortu** **re)**

The country was ravaged all round but, in Sir Philip's estate, apart from hit-and-run raids, we kept the yeomen at bay. Finally came the news that his trusted friend, Sir Edward Crosby, had been arrested on trumped-up charges, taken to Carlow and hanged on the same day. It was now clear that no liberal, however noble, was safe. Moderation was not an option. I prevailed on him over all objections to take his wife and children and leave the county but before he went I took pains to write a lengthy letter which he took with him under an agreement that he would open it only in the event of my death. I detailed an escort to go with them and they got away safely. At that point, I moved Betsy and her mother into the big house at Ballintemple for their safety for I knew her brothers were all sworn United Irishmen and in danger. In fact, they were picked up the very next day in Tullow and taken to the barracks at Carlow. On the same day the mail-coach failed to arrive. The signal was out. Andy sent me word that they were marching on Carlow that very evening. I didn't join them. I wrestled with my conscience, with my reason and experience, and I didn't join them. And even though it was the right and reasonable decision, it has tortured me ever since. Later on that eventful day, I sat and imagined how it would work out and I knew then what I could contribute.

CUT TO:

EXT. - COLLEGE GATE, CARLOW - NIGHT

Ned and his men enter the College grounds via back streets. There is a sudden eruption of gun and cannon fire on nearby Tullow Street. The rebels are crowded into a narrow street with shot pouring into them from every house and escape routes barred front and rear. The shouting of rebel slogans dies away and turns to panic. The night sky is lit up by the guns. Ned opens the locked gates of the college with tools brought for the purpose and sends his men out into College Lane to overcome the Yeomen set to guard it and holds it while rebels escape down the lane and through the gates. They hold the only outlet until no more rebels appear, then close the gates behind them and run for their lives. The gunfire is now sporadic. Women and children wail above the sound of crackling fires as the cabins on the outskirts of the town are burned to the ground. The burst is finished.

FADE OUT

EXT. - ROADWAY - DAY

Ned is driving his exhausted men, encouraging and helping them in their retreat from Carlow. They come across a group by the roadside. One of the group recognizes Ned and takes him by the arm to where a wounded man is lying. It is Andy, mortally wounded. Ned bends over him.

NED HICKEY

Andy, what can I do for you? We'll make up a stretcher and take you home. You'll be grand.

ANDY HICKEY

No, Ned. It's the end of the road for me. But you came with us at the last. I knew you would.

NED HICKEY

Yes, Andy. I was there.

ANDY HICKEY

Tell Betsy how sorry I am about her brothers.

NED HICKEY

What do you mean, Andy. Sure they only went in to Tullow to deliver a few horses to the soldiers.

ANDY HICKEY

(haltingly) They were accused of being United Irishmen, taken to Carlow and flogged near to death, with not a word out of them to incriminate any of us. Then they hanged and beheaded them, one after the other. Tom waited 'til last to keep up the courage of the younger ones.

NED HICKEY

It's too much .... Too many good men.

Andy coughs up a gout of blood, smiles grotesquely. Ned holds him until his life ebbs away.

NED HICKEY

(to his men) We will not leave him here to be mangled by the yeomen and the dogs. We'll bury him on Ballon Hill.

They make up a stretcher from two ash saplings and two coats, place Andy upon it and set out for home.

FADE OUT

EXT. - KILKENNY STREET, BY THE CASTLE - NIGHT

Three men ride through the evening on tiring horses. They are dressed in military style and wave dispatches in the faces of any guards that attempt to stop them along the road and ride on. They enter the city of Kilkenny and dismount in an alley near the castle.

NED HICKEY

Well done, boys. Now you wait. There's one way in and out of this place that every soldier knows that ever served here. Give me until the rising of the moon and if I'm not back you must return to Ballintemple and tell Betsy. She will know what to do.

Ned leaves his horse and makes his way on foot. In a hidden corner of the walls there are hand and footholds carved out by generations of soldiers thirsty for the solace of beer or women. Ned climbs up and over.

CUT TO:

INT. - KILKENNY CASTLE, INTERIOR - NIGHT

Ned, in his British uniform, makes his way by boldness and stealth through the castle to the door of the Commander's apartment. There is a light visible under the door. He knocks firmly and officiously and waits with papers in hand as if they were dispatches for delivery. General FitzHenry, in his dressing gown, opens the door. Ned holds out the papers in one hand and producing a pistol in the other, pushes into the room, closes and bars the door. The general is speechless. Ned draws a second pistol and takes control.

FITZHENRY

Who the devil are you and what do you want? By God, you'll hang for this, soldier.

NED HICKEY

Is your eyesight failing you, FitzHenry? Look again and remember the green at Tullow.

FITZHENRY

Ned, Ned Hickey, isn't it? Why man, you were of service to me in that cursed American prison. Why would you turn a gun against me now?

NED HICKEY

I need payment, FitzHenry.

FITZHENRY

You shall have it. I see you're still a private soldier. We can't have that. I can order your promotion, to sergeant? officer training? Anything you want, I can arrange.

NED HICKEY

I'm glad to hear your offer and I'll take you up on it. What I need is a letter which reinstates Sir Philip Butler as military and civil master of his estates and secures his safety against all enemies. That's not much to ask, is it?

FITZHENRY

The man is a traitor to his class and country, just like that criminal Sir Edward Crosby. He will be hanged for it as Crosby was. And what has he to do with you, soldier?

NED HICKEY

These pistols are the only explanation you need. Now, sit down at your desk and consider your situation. I know precisely what you did to bring about the defeat of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown. I was part of the team that persuaded you to treachery, though you needed little persuasion. This letter is a copy of my statement of the full details including the names of those who can corroborate the facts, people like Colonel Pearce and even Thomas Jefferson on the American side. Several other copies have been written and signed. They are in the hands of people who will publish them if you do not do as I tell you or if I do not return from this place. You have one minute to decide.

FitzHenry is an intelligent man, single-minded in defence of his own interests. He sits in silence for only a moment, then takes up a quill and starts to write. Ned watches as FitzHenry signs the order, shakes sand over it to dry it. Ned motions him to push it across the desk where Ned reads it.

NED HICKEY

You were always a good letter-writer. That will do. Now a letter of safe conduct for private soldier Ned Hickey to get me home.

FitzHenry complies, writes the safe-conduct, throws it across the desk.

FITZHENRY

You will pay for this outrage, Hickey.

NED HICKEY

Forget it, General. There are many copies of my account in many places. You cannot move against me or my people because you can never know from where the evidence will emerge. Take advice, Fitzy, sit quietly at your desk here in Kilkenny and see that no one contravenes this order. If you are very lucky, you will come out of this with a general's pension and retire to enjoy it - far from here, I suggest.

Ned puts away his pistols, challenging FitzHenry to raise the alarm, then walks quietly out the door.

FADE OUT

INT. - SITTINGROOM, PHILADELPHIA, 1826 - DAY

Evening approaches. Ned is still sitting at his desk. A voice from the hallway outside.

BETSY MAHER

Edward, what on earth are you doing in there? We must be at City Hall within the hour.

NED HICKEY

It's alright, Elizabeth. I'll be with you soon. Just gather up the grandchildren. We wouldn't want them to miss the occasion.

BETSY MAHER

I've left out your best clothes and a dress shirt on the bed. Don't forget your medals and such, if you can find them.

NED HICKEY

Alright, Elizabeth. Don't fuss.

NARRATOR (VO)

It's near the end. When I got back to Ballon, I sent a courier to Sir Philip telling him he was needed there and it was safe to come home. Then I collapsed for a day and a night. When I woke, it was clear to me what I must do, so I packed a pistol and a rifle and set off for Wexford where the rebels were out in force.

FADE OUT

EXT. - BARRACKS GATE, WEXFORD - DAY

Ned walks through the streets of Wexford. There are green flags flying at every house. The people wear green ribbons on their hats and chests. There is great optimism and good cheer and remarkably good public order. Men and women are gathered at the gate of the army barracks, now empty of British soldiers. They are reading a Proclamation.

NED HICKEY

What is it then?

WEXFORD WOMAN

Sure, isn't it the Declaration of the Republic of Wexford. Isn't it the great day? Will you look at the names on it? Catholics and Protestants, noblemen and common. Sure 'tis America come to Ireland. I never thought I'd live to see the day.

Ned moves back to the edge of the crowd. Watches in silence. Turns and absorbs the sights and sounds and feeling of the new republic. Then hoists his gun and walks through the gates to report to the governing Directory and offer his services.

FADE OUT

INT. - SITTINGROOM, PHILADELPHIA, 1826 - DAY

NARRATOR (VO)

After many battles in defence of the Republic it all came down to the siege of Arklow. Had we won it, the way would have opened to Dublin. Despite the confusion and loss of leadership in the city, they would have come out with us. But, it was not to be. We could not break through and, apart from the late skirmishes in Ulster, the revolution was already lost. I made my way back through the Wicklow mountains to Ballintemple.

CUT TO:

EXT. - GATELODGE, BALLINTEMPLE ESTATE - NIGHT

Ned approaches the gate-lodge with care. A guard is in place by the door. Ned whistles. The guard recognizes the signal and beckons. Ned comes forward. They touch hands briefly and Ned knocks and enters the house.

CUT TO:

INT. - GATELODGE, KITCHEN - NIGHT

NED HICKEY

Betsy, It's only me, love. Are you alright?

Betsy rushes into his arms and cries hysterically. Ned comforts her. A child starts to cry in the bedroom.

BETSY MAHER '

Tis little Molly. Sure she wakes up in the night crying out for her father. She knows he is dead but still cries. I'll go get her up.

Betsy goes to the bedroom and returns quickly with the little girl in her arms. She sits by the fire, soothing the child until she falls asleep again.

BETSY MAHER

Ned, I thought I'd never see you again. I've been so frightened. Never in all my life have I been so lost. My mother died only a few days ago. She never recovered from the killing of her sons. Sure 'twould wring tears from a stone to see her setting the table for the three of them every day. Tom's wife, Mary, is with her own people. She will never be the same woman we used to know so I'm looking after the children. The world has come to an end, Ned, and I can't cope anymore. What are we to do?

NED HICKEY

There is only one place for us, Betsy, and I'm going now to get us there. Will you come away with me if I can arrange a ship to America?

BETSY MAHER

Anywhere, Ned, anywhere I can put my life together again and live without fear. But we have Tom's family to look after. I cannot leave them.

NED HICKEY

I cannot be seen to go up to the big house. It would put Sir Philip in danger. As soon as it's daylight, will you go up and make it your business to see him. Tell him I'm here and need to talk to him urgently.

Betsy gives Ned some bread. They sit close by the little fire.

FADE OUT

INT. - GATE-LODGE, KITCHEN - DAY

Ned is in the kitchen/living room. He is sharing breakfast with Tom Maher's children, two half-grown and young Molly. Betsy and Sir Philip enter.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Ned, I am delighted to see you home but have no wish to know where you have been. Welcome back. I hope that we can put things together again now that all this upheaval has ended. Remember the great plans we had?

NED HICKEY

Indeed I do, Sir Philip, and I'll never cease to be grateful to you for all you did to protect me and mine. But you must know as well as I do, that Ireland will never be the same. Too much hatred, too much fear. So many of us have had this little taste of freedom and can never put it out of our minds again.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

So, what will you do, Ned?

NED HICKEY

We must leave. There is no recourse. You cannot protect us forever, Sir Philip, and I would not place that burden on you anyway. I'm taking Betsy and the children to America and I wonder if, as one last favor, you can find a way to get us there?

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

(thinking) You're right, of course, Ned. It is the only sensible course, but I will miss you, man. (pause) Remember I mentioned my brother, Pierce, to you? He lives in the Carolinas and has plantations and a shipping business. I had a letter from him that he was sending me a keg of Virginian tobacco which is to be landed on the open beach after they discharge the legitimate cargo at Waterford. I expect a message from Waterford daily to arrange the time and place. Why should they not take you back with them if I issue the request?

NED HICKEY

How are we to travel? with the children?

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

I'll have the carriage prepared and I will go with you to the coast. You have no chance of getting out by stealth. Boldness and good fortune are attributes I learned from you, Ned, so let us put them to the test again.

NED HICKEY

I'll be your coachman and it would not be unusual in these times to have one of your militiamen with me as guard.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Betsy and the children can get some of the family's clothes and act like they are mine. I'll go with them inside the carriage and threaten anyone who might stop us on our way.

NED HICKEY

Can you keep their mouths shut, Betsy? And act the lady?

BETSY MAHER

Sure the poor things hardly open their mouths these days anyway. (she manages a smile) And I'm always a lady.

SIR PHILIP BUTLER

Indeed you are, Betsy. Indeed you are. I'll get the carriage prepared, with a uniform for you, Ned, and clothes for Betsy and children. Then we can only wait for the message from Waterford. (pause) I've been here long enough. We must tell no one and you, Ned, should sleep out in the woods and not here. I'll take a wander with the gun from time to time and bring you some food. God be with us all.

BETSY MAHER

And with you, Sir Philip.

Sir Philip leaves the gatehouse.

NED HICKEY

He was always a good man but he doesn't understand. He never will understand. (pause) I've got to pay my respects at Ballon Hill before we leave.

BETSY MAHER

Yes, I know, Ned. At least you have a proper grave to visit. My lovely brothers are with six hundred others in the Croppy Grave of Carlow.

FADE OUT

EXT. - BALLON GRAVEYARD - NIGHT

Ned is kneeling in the moon-shadow of a tombstone close by an unmarked grave. He crosses himself and says a silent prayer.

NED HICKEY

Andy, you would have been so proud of us. We were free for three whole weeks in an Irish republic. The green flags waved over every building in the town of Wexford while an elected committee governed us well and truly without fear or favor - four Protestant and four Catholic. We tore down every emblem of the king of England. We listened to the mass, there in the public square. We spoke our own language and with pride. We walked the streets with our heads up and moved aside for no-one. When we gathered in an alehouse, we spoke our minds openly and not in the codes we learned over the bad years. We were what you saw always in your imagination and what I was blind to until others revealed it to me. I'm going away, Andy. I wanted to tell you that I understood you at last. Keep a place for me where-ever you are, Andy, for we have a lot to talk about yet.

FADE OUT

INT. - CITY HALL, PHILADELPHIA - NIGHT

The Mayor of Philadelphia stands at the lectern of the Assembly Hall. Ned is seated on the podium above the audience. Ned is called. Then the mayor comes forward and puts a chain with a golden key around his neck, shakes his hand and leaves Ned at the lectern. He looks out quietly at the audience and smiles down to his family in the front row.

NED HICKEY

Mr Mayor, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for the great honor you have bestowed on me tonight, the freedom of my beloved city, Philadelphia. (applause) I accept it gratefully on behalf of all those who suffered and died in the great and worthy cause. (applause) I thank my brave and lovely wife, Elizabeth, who sits here among us. Stand up, Elizabeth. Let them see you and all my family. (prolonged applause)

(pause) I need to talk to you tonight, out of my simplicity or arrogance - you will decide - on the idea of freedom of which you have heard so much today. Many among you have thanked me personally for my part in bringing freedom to this great republic. I appreciate that. But I wonder at the blindness of some eminent persons who celebrate with us today and will return tomorrow to their plantations and estates which function only on the bondage of slaves. (silence) Is freedom divisible? Of course not. Freedom is universal or it is nothing but the plaything of politicians. There are families represented here who first achieved power and nobility on the backs of serfs like me in the old country from which I came. They continue to prosper on the backs of slaves in this new and shining republic. Before we next gather to celebrate freedom, we must grant it - as if it were ours to grant. This cancer must be removed from the body of America before it destroys us.

( **he holds the golden key)**

Thank you for this symbol of freedom which you have so kindly given me. And no, you cannot have it back! God bless us all.

There is applause from some, boos and hisses from others, silence from the majority. Ned bows to the Mayor, walks quietly to the steps of the podium where Betsy meets him, kisses him and walks proudly beside him out of the hall.

THE END

FADE OUT

Credits roll to an unaccompanied male voice singing the last verse of Boolavogue and on a background image of the line-drawing by Brocas - "This is the Head of a Traitor".

FADE OUT

John O'Neill has also written a novel, Children of the Cromlech:

Three young Irish growing up the mid-20th century, victims of post-colonial poverty and religious autocracy, struggle to survive in the depths of degradation and despair...

This was not the romantic Ireland of the poets and visionaries who sparked the revolution.

From childhood to maturity, the three endured their private hells to find at last their own hard-won enlightenments.

This is their story.

_See the blog for more details and links to buy the print or ebook:_ **www.childrenofthecromlech.wordpress.com**
