THE SCOTTISH EMPIRE
FADE IN:
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
WILLIAM PATERSON is in his mid-sixties, grey-haired and
speaks with a soft Scottish accent owing to the many years of
being away from his homeland in Dumfriesshire.
He is alone in a library, surrounded by books, desk and
antiques (some exotic from across the Globe). He has a
decanter filled with a rich whiskey-coloured drink on a small
round table next to his deep green tall-backed chair. He is
sat, contemplatively, looking out to the middle-distance
struggling to recall some memory.
His attention is brought back sharply to an imagined figured
sat opposite him. The INTERVIEWER.
PATERSON
The English? To blame? Well, in
part maybe. In full, no! It would
be easy, too simple, to justify the
position of our great nation by the
acts of the old enemy.
(beat)
It would be cheap. I would be
creating yet another falsehood.
There’s been enough I think.
Paterson reclines in his chair.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
I used to be able to tell a tall,
and handsome, tale in my time. And
with good reason! Those were some
times. They were innovative! We
were embarking on new ways to raise
capital. We had vision; we had
passion. We knew there was
something out there greater for us.
Greater for all to prosper! Not
just the rich English merchants –
though I was one, and an important
one Ð no, the gentleman with the
tailor shop; the widow with her
hopes for her children; the baker
and the local clergy all realising
that we ought Ð no, we had the
right for better.
(beat)
God knew our desires.
He knew what we had suffered with
the famine and he brought us
guidance. I was his instrument.
There had to be a place on this
world stage for our people and I
had the means to find that place.
Some opposed, others doubted but I
knew we would succeed.
Paterson pauses introspectively
PATERSON (CONT’D)
God’s hand was with us and guided
us all the way…
A collision of different images flash in front of Paterson.
The foreboding images that summarise the factors contributing
to the failures of the project: James Smyth (Merchant);
Captain Pennecuik (Fleet Commander); Mrs Paterson ill on a
bed; Spanish Galleons; Unruly Highlanders; a Hurricane;
Soldiers carrying gold to Edinburgh castle being pelted with
stones.
Holding his whiskey in his hand he seems lost somewhere. His
gaze less mid-distant and more introspective.
Still in his chair, he raises his eyes to the Interviewer.
Poised to say something, he holds back, relaxes, takes a sip
of whiskey then breaths.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
I should probably explain the full
story. Sometimes we find ourselves
taking things out of context. I’ll
resist that temptation.
(beat)
Have you ever been to the West
Indies? No, I guess not. For a lad
from Dumfriesshire the Bahamas
opened up a whole new world to me.
Have you ever seen the sea so still
and so blue?
(beat)
Yes, but rare. We have beauty, I
know. You can look out from any
window on any given day and see
hope and wait for a glimpse of blue
to shine through and burst the
vessels in your eyes, reminding you
of how beautiful this world is.
(beat)
But in the Indies. Throughout those
islands. Every day blue. Deep blue,
rich blue, velvety blue.
The sea, the water, the air itself
shone blue. I have never felt so
quiet or so peaceful as I had in
those days at the edge of the
world. I consider myself a rational
man but sometimes reason falters
when too much light enters your
life.
(beat)
Seeds were planted.
(beat)
From that wonderland, from those
lapping shores and the beauty that
enveloped me, I paused. I breathed.
(beat)
I asked God why had he told me to
come to this paradise?
(beat)
And I waited for the answer. It
never came, well not directly. I’m
not proposing that our divine Lord
has time for my flawed soul to
furnish me with a written decree of
deeds I must manifest. No. It was
on the second week of my stay that
a small flotilla of Spanish ships
passed not ten leagues off the
Easterly coast that it struck me.
Paterson inhales deeply, frustrated at the interviewer’s
regard.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
(angrily)
Nothing to do with Gold!
(beat)
There is more in the wealth in
honest learned activity and the
subsequent knowledge gained (if one
has the faculties) than in all the
Inca halls and palaces that so
blight the Spanish people. Blunted
is their religion to the point
where wars rage across this
bloodied continent for the true
path to God.
(beat)
But what I saw as those ladened
ships that passed my paradise was
not gold; it was the opportunity,
the future of our country.
(whispers)
The dream that so many would die
for.
(beat)
The first of many outposts, trading
Scottish goods to those indigenous
to their lands and to those
colonies set about extracting the
wealth from their lands. The first
outpost: New Caledonia. The
embryonic plan that would unveil
across the globe the Scottish
Empire!
(beat)
An empire based on commerce and
free-trade, build upon good
principled ideals made by stout,
virtuous men from those fine
weathered lands from the Borders to
Argyll, from Skye to Lanarkshire.
The breadth and depth of men, and
women, who would come to celebrate
in our glory: envisaged by this
humble soul, ordained by our Lord
and executed by the good people of
Scotland.
(beat)
We would cut through the lands that
part those two mighty oceans and
provide safe passage to all cargo
to and from the Indies. To open
such a gateway for our neighbours
would be a good, neigh a great
service indeed.
(beat)
I knew of such a place. That
anthropologist adventurer of our
time, Sir William Dampier, the man
who captured our hearts and
imagination with his sketches and
descriptions of Africa and the
Americas first described it as ever
I have since imagined it. “Paradise
on this good Earth could be no
place else”. He was right.
(beat)
So: a vision; a paradise; desire
and passion. Throw them all
together and take me to God’s
greenest place on Earth. Take me to
DARIEN!
EXT. STREETS OF LONDON – DAY
The bustling streets of London in the late 17th Century, a
mix of wigs and muck, rich and poor. We follow Paterson in a
wig as he makes his way through.
He dodges through the crowd and is nearly knocked over by two
boys scuttling through the crowd chasing each other.
The crowd are a mix of fruit and vegetable vendors. As he
makes his way to a busy road a preacher confronts him.
PREACHER
Have you seen your soul? Do you
know why God has brought you to
this hell?
Paterson shakes his head in contempt and pushes his way
passed the man.
He crosses the road nimbly between horse and carts across to
the other side of the street.
View of the imposing building of the Bank of England as
Paterson’s character pauses, then strides up the steps to its
main entrance, purposefully, confidently.
INT. BANK OF ENGLAND – DAY
Paterson walks through the main front desks of the Bank of
England, up the wide stairs, through wide freshly decorated
corridor to a large, imposing set of doors.
INT. BANK OF ENGLAND BOARD ROOM – DAY
Both doors fling open to the sight of a large oval table
where are seated the board of the Bank of England. Twelve
wigged governors of the Bank sit. Some allow themselves to
make brief eye contact with Paterson. Most avoid contact
completely.
The room is stuffy and a window is opened as Paterson enters.
Several clear their throats in a nervous manner, implying a
foreboding encounter.
GOVERNOR OF THE BANK OF ENGLAND, SIR
JOHN HOUBLON
Err, mmm. Impeccable timing Mr
Paterson as always. We are
eternally grateful for all your
efforts during your time at this
bank and in its conception and
assisting in navigating it through
its trickier times. It is therefore
with great heart…
EXT. STREETS OF LONDON – DAY
Paterson strides through the streets a little less diligently
than earlier but with direction still.
GOVERNOR OF THE BANK OF ENGLAND, SIR
JOHN HOUBLON (V.O.)
…that we part ways due to
(beat)
irreconcilable differences. But all
the same, we thank you greatly for
you expertise, loyalty and clarity
of mind. We wish you all the best
in your future endeavours and
should you ever require assistance
from this bank I am sure we shall
be able to come to a common ground
of satisfaction for all parties
concerned.
Paterson reaches a Public House
INT. THE ARGYLL ARMS, LONDON – DAY
Smoking, choking but clean location for a Public House.
Slightly unruly atmosphere but nothing intimidating,
certainly Paterson is comfortable with the environment. He
makes his way to a table where is sat Mr James SMYTH.
James Smyth is a thin and tall character, dressed in fine
attire with a somewhat European style: rather flamboyant.
PATERSON
James, how are you? Good to see a
friendly face!
JAMES SMYTH
William. Did it go as you
anticipated?
PATERSON
Exactly as anticipated!
They both smile.
Paterson signals for an ale and is duly delivered one.
JAMES SMYTH
So now what are your designs?
(beat)
Are they what we spoke about?
Paterson’s remains stone-faced.
JAMES SMYTH (CONT’D)
Surely, such an opportunity still
exists?
Paterson begins to grin.
PATERSON
Of course James! Nothing will ever
deter me from my dream. The Bank of
England has been a very useful
stepping-stone. Nothing comes by an
easy path; no one treads without
breaking glass. We shouldn’t let
our dreams falter or the demons in
our heads raise us above our fellow
man. There are many opportunities
for the likes of us. We are indeed
the future of this World. We know
that. Let’s start a new beginning,
today, here, at this table. Two
friends…loyal!
Ale is delivered to Paterson.
JAMES SMYTH
To friends, loyalty and DARIEN!
Paterson and Smyth clash ale mugs.
INT. DENMARK STREET RESIDENCE – NIGHT
Cut to a scene where a clash of filled wine glasses pull back
and the cheerful collection of merchants celebrate their
inaugural meeting. In attendance: James CHIESLY, Thomas
COUTTS, Joseph Cohen D’AZEVEDO, James Smyth, Daniel LODGE, W.
Paterson.
PATERSON
May I just say what a pleasure it
is to be joined with such like
minded merchants as yourselves.
ALL
“Here, here!”
PATERSON
I thank you good gentlemen for
requesting my small contribution to
this effort to establish a Company
here in London. I hope this scheme
will aid in our hopes to establish
a trading company fit for the fine
countries of both Scotland and
England.
General murmur of approval and nods from those in attendance.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
I would like to point out though,
that we do not live in isolation in
this world. We are creature of the
greater world. We have taken the
opportunities afforded us by this
great city of London. We enjoy her
virtues, we suffer her sewers, but
would find a world difficult to
perceive and attain without her.
(beat)
Here you will find the best and the
worst of all forms of living. And
while we dream of our ancestral
lands and estates, and indeed many
of us desire that dour setting
sooner than others…
Laughter around the room.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
…we know this place is pivotal to
our success as merchants of the
seas, traders of the waves and
designers of the world to come!
Several vocal loud endorsements of Patersons words.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Joseph here is an absolute genius
when it comes to dealing within
these tricky London markets Ð we
need his expertise, likewise for my
good friend James Smyth who has a
great European history of ventures
and trading companies.
Repeated nodding.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Let us neither enter this venture
with our eyes closed, obscuring
what is clearly in front of us.
Until this Company is firmly
established as dictated by our good
King William’s Act we are assured
of nothing. I fear we have some
great hurdles ahead, not least the
East Indian Company.
A more sobering atmosphere takes hold of the room.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
England and Scotland are two
different countries with a common
monarch but there is a new future
without borders, where finance
brings great opportunity to those
willing to take it. Above all it is
needful for us to make no
distinction of parties in this
great and noble undertaking, but
that of whatever nation or religion
a man be (if one of us) he ought to
be looked upon to be of the same
interest and inclination.
(beat)
Once this Company is established
and a subscription book opened to
the good people of London,
Edinburgh and all the other major
cities of Europe, we shall face
challenges. But I am sure between
us we can overcome these.
(beat)
But for now, friends,
(triumphantly)
let us toast once again to the
Company of Scotland.
Chairs scrape against the wooded floor as they all stand and
raise their glasses once again in a toast.
JAMES SMYTH
Fine words William.
ALL
The Company of Scotland!
INT. HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT – DAY
Raucous jeering introduces the scene. The commons are in
debate. The men of the house return to their seats.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE
The Right Honourable Thomas
Osborne, Duke of Leeds.
LEEDS
Mr Speaker, it brings me great
distress to find myself in such a
position following news that has
arrived to me of recent activities
concerning a certain Scotch
enterprise.
Murmurs around the house from discontented voices.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
Permit me to read this Scottish
Act: “The said Company is hereby
empowered to equip, fit, set out
and navigate ships from any port or
place not in hostility with His
Majesty to any lands or places in
Asia, Africa or America and there
to plant colonies, build cities,
towns or forts in any other place,
by consent of the Natives and not
possessed by other European
Sovereign, Prince or State.”
Leeds waves the paper high in the air to the assembled
commons.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
This Act is a travesty to the trade
in this realm. It is a monopoly.
A chorus of jeers rise from the floor.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
…for thirty-one years; tax
exempt…
Stamping of feet increase the din.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
…for twenty-one years; they have
a license to settle anywhere they
wish but so long as they do not
offend any of our European
neighbours.
Huge jeers rise in the House.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
(bellowing)
But there is offence!
(calmly)
Though we must be fair.
(beat)
We must be reasonable. For such an
enterprise to exist we must respect
those that already exist and
already bring great wealth to His
Majesty William in order that he
may fight for the liberation of men
across this continent and indeed
this globe.
(rising)
This act is against the interests
of our finest trading companies;
against the interest of our
sovereign; against the interests of
the Scots themselves, for in such
an undertaking they are sure to
fail.
Roars of approval.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
(exalted)
I bring this to the house and
request that this Act be mercifully
put to rest such as one would an
ailed and fated gutter pup that it
is!
Further roars, stamping and waving of papers across the
house.
EXT. DENMARK STREET – NIGHT
Paterson and Smyth hurriedly make their way on foot to the
Denmark Street meeting place.
JAMES SMYTH
Can the King change his mind about
our Act?
PATERSON
If he has a mind-to, he will change
it.
JAMES SMYTH
Do you think the Company is ruined?
Paterson halt abruptly in the street. Smyth too. Paterson
looks Smyth straight in the face.
PATERSON
We can only deal with facts in
front of us. Speculation is a
dangerous game, we’re in it, but
you need to understand what to read
and when it is appropriate. If
telling the future were so easy,
every fortune-teller would be
ruling a kingdom with his or her
crystal ball.
Paterson strides off again at pace. Smyth follows close
behind.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
We deal with facts so there are no
surprises.
INT. DENMARK STREET MEETING PLACE – NIGHT
The same meeting room as before. This time a large, greater
than life gentleman is sat opposite the door behind that
table. Paterson and Smyth walk in.
PATERSON
(startled)
Lord BELHAVEN!
Lord Belhaven is a Scottish Laird, wearing a thick black wig
and smoking a long pipe. He controls the room effortlessly.
LORD BELHAVEN
Things have to change Paterson.
This is not going as you planned!
Paterson breathes deeply and closes his eyes in resignation.
EXT. CARRIAGE RIDE – DAY
Travelling north through England.
Paterson and Belhaven travel together in the same coach.
Rough and uncomfortable, the pair wince their way up-country.
LORD BELHAVEN
(sympathetically;
patronisingly)
I understand you have a lot of
effort and emotion tied into this
project but we must truly
acknowledge where best situated
this company must manifest. It is
within the heart of Scotland.
(snorts)
We are a nation of great people, we
have achieved much with our
neighbours but it is truly time for
us to take this opportunity for
ourselves. Nothing will be gained
by meddling with these London
merchants. Yes, they are all of
Scottish descent, apart from a
couple,
(snorts)
but they look for money, they look
for a prosperous household but not
a prosperous Scotland.
Paterson stares idly out of the window, mid-distance.
LORD BELHAVEN (CONT’D)
Do you doubt us?
PATERSON
Never!
Paterson turns to Belhaven.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
My Lord, it is without doubt that
this venture will turn the fortunes
of our great nation to fresher,
richer pastures. With the designs
in place, the expertise from the
smartest merchants and the grand
and illustrious support of the
great men of Scotland, I only see
the challenge of when we should
stop colonising this world in order
to rest our feet and poor souls for
a day of contemplation and thanks!
Belhaven chuckles lightly.
LORD BELHAVEN
You are as good as the best of them
Paterson. I admire you.
(snorts)
Many men don’t have your vision and
without that they remain in the
melee of middle life. You will
serve us well.
Both fall silent and the carriage continues along the rocky
road.
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
Paterson in his leather chair. Talks to Interviewer.
PATERSON
Are you clear up to that point? I
haven’t dragged it out at all have
I? At times I have been accused of
dragging things out a bit…
(enthusiastically)
Good. Well, Edinburgh proved a
spectacular success. We couldn’t
have imagined it.
WALTER HERRIES
(mockingly,
rhythmically)
They came in their shoals from all
corners of the Kingdom to
Edinburgh, rich, poor, blind and
lame, to lodge their subscriptions
in the Company’s House, and to have
a glimpse of the man Paterson!
Paterson turns to another chair in the club and sees Walter
Herries aged like himself peering around his chair. Paterson
is astonished.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
Please continue this is
fascinating! And, yes, you are
dragging it out.
Walter disappears back behind his high-backed chair where he
has clearly been hearing the whole conversation. Paterson
stumbles to regain his pose.
PATERSON
I apologise for my old
(struggling for the
appropriate word)
companion. We tend to disagree on
many points both trivial and
fundamental to the time.
Paterson coughs, reaches for his whiskey, takes a re-assuring
inhale of fumes and sips. The stress drains from his face.
The thought of Walter Herries with it.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Where was I? Hmm, aye, the
subscription in Edinburgh. There
had to be much effort carried out
before that could happen. Word
needed to spread throughout the
land. We needed everyone to invest,
from those with something hidden
under a mattress to a lost uncle’s
inheritance. We had a lot of
groundwork to do.
(beat)
We started from the ground.
INT. EDINBURGH CAFƒ – DAY
Bustling cafŽ, with James Smyth and Patterson sat at a round
table receiving people. A large man appearing to be a member
of the cafŽ staff is marshalling people. A lady sits down.
The men at the table uncomfortably try to rise before she
sits. They fail to do so in time.
MARGARET ADAMSON
A pleasure to meet you finally Mr
Paterson. I do hope a woman at the
table does not offend your fiscal
inclinations?
PATERSON
Not in the slightest madam. A
breath of fresh air as I’m sure my
colleague will agree.
(beat)
Are you the daughter of Patrick
Adamson?
MARGARET ADAMSON
I am indeed.
PATERSON
I had the great fortune of hearing
of his wonderful work yet never the
joy of meeting him. I am sorry for
his passing.
MARGARET ADAMSON
Thank you. I am not convinced it
would have been a joy…but it is
the future we are here to talk
about. I wonder, if I were to
subscribe to this, what feels, a
ludicrous venture, at what stage
would I actually receive any return
on the capital I invest?
Paterson smiles contently.
PATERSON
Madam Adamson, you are clearly well
versed in this financial world and
are able to ask the right
questions.
(beat)
The answers, though, as you
probably already suspect are a
little trickier. The expedition, in
whatever shape it takes, will need
to support the company financially
and in due course establish
settlements that will trade and
provide profits back to the
company.
Dividends shall subsequently be
returned to the shareholders.
(broadly smiling)
And handsome returns if our designs
and prayers are with us.
MARGARET ADAMSON
A little vague wouldn’t you say Mr
Paterson?
PATERSON
I would not mislead you. There are
risks but with the Company of
Scotland making the right
decisions, providing for the best
maritime vessels that we can afford
and provisioning them with the
appropriate trading goods, I see no
reason why anyone able in this land
would not invest personally into
the future of our great country.
MARGARET ADAMSON
(smiling)
I never doubted you Mr Paterson.
You shall see my subscription when
the book opens in Edinburgh.
Margaret rises from the chair. All the men at the table rise
with her. She leaves them with a smile and nod of
appreciation.
EXT. EDINBURGH SUBSCRIPTION HOUSE – DAY
The street is busy with horse-drawn carriages. Mrs Purdie’s
house has a sign above it: “The Company of Scotland”.
Anne, Duchess of Hamilton steps out of an elaborate carriage
among a throng of people. The crowd is made up of mainly
merchants and gentlemen and leads to Mrs Purdie’s House. A
footman makes a path through the crowd and the Duchess walks
up to and enters the house.
INT. MRS PURDIE’S HOUSE – DAY
The entrance hall of Mrs Purdie’s house has been taken over
by the Company of Scotland. A large desk with a large
subscription book is sat towards the rear. Three clerks fuss
around the main desk. Paterson is anxiously pacing back and
forth.
The double doors open and the Duchess of Hamilton, a tall
striking woman with a hard-face, enters.
ANNE, DUCHESS OF HAMILTON
Good morning. Am I the first?
PATERSON
Indeed, Your Ladyship, you are. And
it is a pleasure to…
ANNE, DUCHESS OF HAMILTON
Aye, aye. Of course Peterson.
Where’s Basil?
Paterson has a look of confusion on his face.
PATERSON
It’s Paterson..err..Basil?
(beat)
Oh, his Lordship! We were not
expecting him, Your Grace.
ANNE, DUCHESS OF HAMILTON
Well, I was!
Lord Basil Hamilton stumbles through the entrance to Mrs
Purdie’s house in his haste.
BASIL HAMILTON
Mother!
Lady Hamilton swivels and throws her son a glare.
BASIL HAMILTON (CONT’D)
I mean: Your Grace!
(beat)
I apologise for my tardiness. The
streets are chaos.
ANNE, DUCHESS OF HAMILTON
You are chaos. Now Peterson.
(beat)
Well? Where do I sign?
The Duchess signs.
PATERSON
Thank you, Your Grace.
She turns and makes her way out through the doorway.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
(to himself)
It’s Paterson Your Grace…
EXT. OUTSIDE MRS. PURDIE’S HOUSE – DAY
The Duchess leaves the house with her son Basil Hamilton in
toe. As they climb into the crowd begin to push through the
main double-doors into the house.
PATERSON (V.O.)
The Hamiltons were the landed
gentry and the most influential
family in Scotland. They provided
the wings that allowed this scheme
to lift from its muddied
beginnings.
(beat)
The rest soon followed. Society,
guilds, cities themselves all
rolled up to the opportunity
presented to them: a stake in the
future of Scotland. Ministers,
widows, nobles all looked to this
project as the future of our
wondrous land. We raised £400,000
through subscriptions – four times
the revenue of the Scottish
government. Yes, a miracle. Never
before had so much of any single
country’s money been placed
directly under the control of one
individual company.
(beat)
We could not fail them!
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
WALTER HERRIES
But you did.
Paterson looks coolly into his whiskey. He rolls it around in
his hand. He looks through it, examines it.
PATERSON
Failure and success. Perspective I
suggest.
WALTER HERRIES
Take the perspective of those who
lost their inheritance or life
savings to this ridiculous scheme.
Paterson slams his glass down in frustration.
INT. MILNE SQUARE (COMPANY HQ) – NIGHT
A raucous occasion. Directors and the Company celebrating the
closure of the subscription book. Belhaven, Basil Hamilton
and Robert MacKenzie share a joke. Paterson enters and
Belhaven catches his eye, breaks from the other directors and
heads to Paterson.
Belhaven and Paterson greet and firmly shake hands. Both a
little worse for weather after too much ale/wine.
Robert MacKenzie looks suspiciously in the direction of
Paterson.
LORD BELHAVEN
A fine thing we have accomplished
here; would you not say so
Paterson?
PATERSON
Indeed, My Lord, a day everyone
should be proud of.
LORD BELHAVEN
But it was you that pulled this off
Paterson. No one else! Just you. We
won’t forget that. You are the
Prize of Scotland. They are writing
ballads about you in streets.
(beat)
I’m rather jealous!
PATERSON
That’s only because there are
easier rhymes for my name.
LORD BELHAVEN
Ha! Well we have another task for
you Paterson. We need to raise more
money.
(beat)
Amsterdam and Hamburg for a start.
If you can wield your magic there
and conjure up a book or two filled
with European gold.
Belhaven grabs Paterson’s shoulder and looks his sternly in
the eye.
LORD BELHAVEN (CONT’D)
We will be unstoppable! Truly
unstoppable!
EXT. STREETS OF LONDON – DAY
Following a coach that pulls up outside the Denmark Street
residence.
PATERSON (V.O.)
The English pound has collapsed
that year, due to the wars William
insisting on waging. We transferred
the equivalent of £17,000 to London
to my friend James Smyth in order
to take advantage of a weak pound
and to facilitate purchases in
Hamburg and Amsterdam.
INT. DENMARK STREET RESIDENCE – NIGHT
Smyth opens a chest filled with cash and bank notes. He is
shocked at the sight. He runs his hands across the notes
stacked within the chest and lifts a medium sized sack, eyes
wide.
PATERSON (V.O.)
Some decisions you can’t take back.
INT. CARRIAGE RIDE – DAY
Travelling from London to Harwich. The carriage rocks
steadily on the uneven road.
James Smyth, Paterson and John Haldane of GLENEAGLES sit
inside. Gleneagles is an ex-military Scot who warms to people
very slowly. He is dressed as a Laird and retains military
order of matters.
GLENEAGLES
Are you English Smyth?
JAMES SMYTH
No. It’s quite a complicated
background actually.
GLENEAGLES
How?
JAMES SMYTH
Well, I was born in Belgium and
moved to Germany soon after. Lived
a life in several European cities
learning the languages and dialects
on my way. And mastering, as best
one can, some of them.
GLENEAGLES
Like English
JAMES SMYTH
Yes
GLENEAGLES
(dissatisfied)
Hmm. I thought you were English.
Carriage continues to rock as they make their way through the
rough terrain of the English countryside.
PATERSON
You’ll find James is exceptional
with trade and money in many
languages.
GLENEAGLES
Damn pleased to hear it. I’m
useless.
JAMES SMYTH
How did you find London Sir?
GLENEAGLES
Well. In fact, I found some
interesting fellas there who I
think would be very useful for our
future endeavours. An English
Captain by the name of Pincarton
who seems very well versed
regarding West Indian trade, as
well as a Glaswegian surgeon by the
name of Walter Herries, though a
rather dour chap. I’ve asked him to
meet us at Harwich.
(thoughtfully)
For a long time there has been
nothing like this that has made
greater a splash as we shall see.
And the eyes of the world are upon
us!
(eagerly)
I have been informed by several
well-respected individuals that
there is great prospect of our
getting foreign subscriptions.
PATERSON
(sceptically)
Let us hope it to be the case.
EXT. AMSTERDAM. COFFEE HOUSE FUNCTION ROOM – AFTERNOON
The room is has rectangular mahogany table at its centre and
those in the room sit casually around it. Not too formal.
There is a feeling of mutual respect and opportunity to be
had. The sun streams in through the windows, while jugs and
glasses full of wine sit around the table.
Company of Scotland: Paterson, Gleneagles, Smyth, Walter
Herries (clearly a younger version that the one seen in the
Westminster Club)
Dutch Merchants: Jacob Larwood, Henry Wylenbrock, Isaac
Coassart, Alexander Henderson.
The group lightly chatter.
JAMES SMYTH
(aside to Paterson)
It feels like we’ve been here
before…
Paterson lightly ignores Smyth’s comment, smiles and stands
tapping his glass as he rises. The gathering fall into
respectful silence.
WALTER HERRIES
Speech time!
PATERSON
Gentlemen, thank you for your
esteemed attendance. As you all
know we are here in this great City
of Amsterdam in order to give you
the opportunity of joining with us
in our Joint-Stock venture. As
such, it gives me the honour to
toast you all in our current and
future business together.
All cheer and raise their glasses to the toast.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
And may I say, as we look to the
future, the shape of the world
looks more like this than it has to
me ever before. Borders melting
away and trade emerging as the
common and conquering language that
unites disparate nations.
(beat)
Dare I venture further, to a point
beyond our present meagre venture,
to a place on the horizon where the
world is no longer ruled by the
whims of individuals but by the
collective interests of all people?
A world without these poisonous
wars that destroy lives and our
trade in equal measure.
(beat)
In peace we prosper Gentlemen. In
peace we must build our future!
Hesitation and silence. Gleneagles is wide-eyed.
GLENEAGLES
(loudly supportive)
Well-said Paterson!
All burst into cheers and another clash of glasses.
Gleneagles leans across to Paterson.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
(in a low voice)
Almost treasonous lad! Careful. I
know you didn’t mean it.
EXT. CARRIAGE RIDE – DAY
Two carriages pull away from Amsterdam
Walter Herries, Paterson, Gleneagles and Smyth share a
carriage. Herries has his head out of the window.
WALTER HERRIES
“Vaarwel” little Amsterdam! Bye for
noo!
Herries chuckles to himself as he pulls his head back in from
the window.
GLENEAGLES
We were always going to face
opposition.
PATERSON
Indeed.
GLENEAGLES
In fact, we are the opposition.
Gleneagels smirks. The others join in with the smirk and turn
to a mild chuckle.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
They may have missed out on the
biggest opportunity of their lives!
I mean who’s ever heard of the
Dutch East Indian Company? Nothing
will come of them.
Smiles all around. Smiles fade a little too quickly.
JAMES SMYTH
(lightly)
I always found the Hamburgese a
much more fascinating people. More
open to new ideas. Dutch were
always a little dull.
Laughter again in the carriage. The mood lightened.
INT. RYCAUT RESIDENCE. HAMBURG – DAY
Sir Paul RYCAUT. A fat English diplomat with large bushy
eyebrows that he uses frequently. He is sat in his office.
His secretary, a skinny, wiry fella with a thin moustache, is
standing at the open door to his office.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
Paterson? Here? I’ll have nothing
to do with him. He’s a swindler, a
peddler of lies. He’d be able to
trick Lucifer himself with his
stories. Is he still pitching
Darien?
RYCAUT’S SECRETARY
Sir, they merely wish to pay their
respects and introduce their
business to the City. It could be
useful…
Rycaut raises an eyebrow.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
I see.
INT. GRAND RESTAURANT IN CENTRAL HAMBURG – EVENING
Rycaut, Paterson, Smyth, Gleneagles. Dinner plates are
cleared from the table by waiters after luncheon.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
May I say, this meal has been
adorable and your company
exquisite, gentlemen.
I just wish I managed to get to
this place more often, it is quite
a wonder, would you not agree?
GLENEAGLES
It is rare to find a gem such as
this.
PATERSON
If I may be so bold Sir. I would
like to inform you clearly and
without prejudice the nature of our
business here in Hamburg.
Rycaut raises his eyebrows.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
Gentlemen, I wouldn’t pry if you
did you feel it was in all
interests to discuss such matters.
PATERSON
I feel it is in all parties’
interests and indeed in His
Majesty’s interests to discuss our
plans with you Sir.
(beat)
Our designs are intended not to
interfere with those designs of
other interested parties who share
his Majesty’s interests
(beat)
if you appreciate our position.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
Splendid.
(beat)
You are eloquent Mr Paterson. I
think if I understand you correctly
we are all good servants to His
Majesty. The rest of this trading
madness that surrounds us to be
honest blinds me. I doubt that I’d
be able to add up the number of
glasses of wine I drink every day,
let along venture into such wild
territories as you brave gentlemen
intend.
A gentle laughter ripples around the table.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT (CONT’D)
Where on this Earth are you going
to head to though? I thought it had
all been discovered!
PATERSON
We have found a beautiful spot in
Central America, named Darien by
the Spanish.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
Spanish land? Sounds dangerous!
PATERSON
It poses no threat to the Spanish.
They are not interested in this
stretch of the isthmus. But it
could provide trade to many of the
surrounding islands and ports.
Rycaut’s eyebrows oscillate wildly.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
Sounds wonderful. Speaking of
which, have you seen the Hanoverian
Princess.
Rycaut waves to the Princess who is walking to a table to be
sat for lunch. The directors gently breath in holding their
frustration.
INT. MILNE SQUARE (COMPANY HQ) – DAY
Directors: Belhaven, Robert MacKenzie and Lord Basil
Hamilton.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
We have correspondence from the
European efforts.
LORD BELHAVEN
Well, read.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
It appears that the Dutch East
India Company has closed all
options for raising capital within
any of their major cities. A
subscription book was opened in
Rotterdam but all who wished to
partake were discouraged with
enthusiasm, lest the wrath of the
Dutch East Indian Company be
unleashed.
LORD BELHAVEN
And?
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Good news from Hamburg. Our trusted
men have made contact with Sir Paul
Rycaut and have found an old weak
man and neither he nor the English
have any great interest in Hamburg.
They expect to see a more positive
response from this burgeoning City.
BASIL HAMILTON
Doesn’t appear that they are
achieving anything.
An awkward shuffling of papers.
INT. RYCAUT RESIDENCE. HAMBURG – DAY
Sir Paul Rycaut finishes writing a letter, folds it carefully
and pours red wax on the fold. He takes a stamp and presses
firmly. He turns it over and writes: “Thomas Osbourne, Duke
of Leeds”. He powders the ink, blows and hands it to his
secretary.
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
With all due haste.
EXT. DOCKYARDS OF HAMBURG – DAY
Ships in early stages of construction being built. Paterson
and Gleneagles stroll along the dockyard casually inspecting
the two ships being built
GLENEAGLES
The Unicorn and the Saint Andrew.
Fine beasts these will be Paterson.
PATERSON
Aye
GLENEAGLES
I’ve had some worrying news.
PATERSON
Oh?
GLENEAGLES
I received this.
He pulls a letter out of his inner pocket of his jacket,
opens it and reads:
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
“We are very surprised at the
receipt of a protest from London
for non payment of a bill of £500
Sterling which we drew on Mr James
Smyth.
(beat)
We fear further protests which
reflects not only upon our credit
and reputation but will cause a
very considerable charge to the
Company of Scotland”
He folds the letter back up and returns it to his pocket.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
These fine ships we are looking at
may never be finished, let alone
break the waves on the open sea.
Paterson has a confused, worried look on his face.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
You vouched for Smyth didn’t you
William.
PATERSON
There must be some mistake. A
clerical error. Surely not James?
GLENEAGLES
Well, either way, we’ll find out
soon enough. I’m having Herries
pick him up from his residence.
(beat)
Now, William, can you assure me
that in no way you have
unfortunately become tangled up in
this mess?
PATERSON
On my word John! Nothing galls me
more than this. If it is proved a
scandal, truly our reputation here
in Hamburg is in tatters. We are a
fledgling enterprise, no footing.
We must keep this within the
company John.
A carriage clatters up next to them. Walter Herries jumps
out.
GLENEAGLES
And where’s Smyth?
WALTER HERRIES
The rat’s fled his hole. Papers and
everything. Guilty as King Charles
in an oak tree. I’ve sent word out
to Rotterdam and Amsterdam that he
is wanted. He’ll not find a safe
home tonight.
GLENEAGLES
Discretion would have been
appreciated…
(aside to Paterson)
If the English or the Dutch
companies get wind of this, we’re
finished here.
INT. PRIVATE PRISON IN AMSTERDAM – NIGHT
The door to a cell swings open and Smyth is pushed through
it. He sits on a bench inside, head in his hands.
JAMES SMYTH
Merde!
EXT. LEITH DOCKS: ONBOARD THE UNICORN – NIGHT
Paterson, his wife and clerk embark the Unicorn. Gleneagles
is on-board. Lord Belhaven; Lord Basil Hamilton and Robert
MacKenzie are in hearty conversation nearby on the dockside.
MRS PATERSON is finely dressed with parasol and a small bag.
She has a slender figure and has a refined lower class London
accent.
Paterson sees Gleneagles at the helm and excuses himself from
his wife making his way to him. Gleneagles turns to Paterson.
GLENEAGLES
It seems that we have been able to
keep the destination a secret from
the English and the Dutch. It
appears Rycaut was as disinterested
in our affairs at he made out.
Instructions are with each Captain
and are to be opened as when they
out of Leith.
(beat)
The Council of Directors has
expanded again. We now have fifty
directors! Everything is a
committee meeting, it’s amazing
that we’ve managed to get this far.
PATERSON
The Company, all but in name, runs
this country now.
Gleneagles look to the shore where Belhaven, Hamilton and
MacKenzie are gathered.
GLENEAGLES
We really need you here at the
reigns of this wretched company
William.
PATERSON
No you don’t. There’s enough
directors and management in this
company to run all the companies in
Scotland. They won’t miss me.
Besides, penance for Smyth if the
truth be told.
(beat)
And I know the area from a few
years ago and old acquaintances
that may prove useful.
GLENEAGLES
Well, you’re a braver man than I
am! I’ll see what I can do with
this lot here on my own. Your
guidance will be missed.
PATERSON
But put to better use elsewhere.
GLENEAGLES
Safe voyage my friend.
PATERSON
The best to you!
They shake hands. Gleneagles makes his way off the ship
passing Mrs Paterson who is heading to see her husband. He
tips his hat to her as they pass.
MRS PATERSON
Are you sure about this William?
PATERSON
Ah, Mrs Paterson. Never more so my
dear!
Paterson takes his wife’s hand and pulls her closer.
MRS PATERSON
William!
(nervously embarrassed)
Public displays of affections!
PATERSON
We have a long sea journey ahead of
us.
MRS PATERSON
I think I have found myself a new
man.
PATERSON
I think this journey will be good
for us both.
He squeezes Mrs Paterson close, she lets herself be absorbed
by his frame.
EXT. LEITH DOCKS – DAY
Roger OSWALD, an enthusiastic and well-presented young
gentleman, takes his luggage handed down to him by a stage
coach driver. His mother is sobbing barely able to contain
herself. His father looks in the opposite direction towards
the ships that line the quay. He turns impatiently to his
son.
OSWALD’S FATHER
Move along Roger. It’s important
that you don’t slouch and always
keep away from the scum below
decks.
Roger Oswald stops handling his bags and stands to attention
in front of his father.
ROGER OSWALD
Yes Sir.
OSWALD’S FATHER
Well, I said move along!
Young Oswald breaks from his stance and grabs one of his
bags. A ships steward approaches the family trailed by an
assistant juggling parchment, quill and ink pot.
COLIN CAMPBELL
May I have your name young Sir?
ROGER OSWALD
Oswald Sir, Roger Oswald. I’m a
volunteer.
COLIN CAMPBELL
Ah yes. Our volunteers are
especially appreciated. You shall
be bunking down with three others.
Quite roomy.
OSWALD’S FATHER
I hope he is not sharing a cabin?
COLIN CAMPBELL
The only person who doesn’t share a
cabin is Captain Pincarton,
commander of this ship. We are at
sea now Sir, not in a luxury
country estate.
OSWALD’S FATHER
Well I never!
COLIN CAMPBELL
Move along.
Roger Oswald’s mother bursts into tears and grabs hold of her
son.
ROGER OSWALD
(embarrassed)
Mother!
OSWALD’S FATHER
Winnie!
Oswald’s father prises his wife off of his son. Roger Oswald
picks up two large cases and looks at his parents.
ROGER OSWALD
Father. Mother. I shall not
disappoint.
OSWALD’S FATHER
Don’t come back if you do.
ROGER OSWALD
(beat)
Sir.
He formally turns and makes his way on board.
EXT. LEITH DOCKS – DAY
Five handsome ships sail off from the Leith surrounded by a
flotilla of smaller boats. Sails are being raised and crowds
are cheering “Caledonia, Caledonia!”.
Families and children running around in the warm summer.
Picnics are set out throughout the meadows that line the
Leith.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Much activity on the St Andrew as the seamen raise the main
sail. The Surgeon, Walter Herries, comes to the bridge of the
ship. Sea Captain Robert PENNECUIK is in his fifties and
large but in a sense that he use to be a strong, athletic man
in his youth.
PENNECUIK
A bonnie day, wouldn’t you agree Mr
Herries?
WALTER HERRIES
Aye Sir, the weather is rather
favourable.
PENNECUIK
I see a lot of great things being
achieved through this venture,
would you not agree Herries?
WALTER HERRIES
If I may, as your ship’s medical
officer, I would suggest that we
ought to have provided a little
better in case of sickness and
disease in more challenging
climates.
PENNECUIK
What?! Do you seriously doubt the
strength of your shipmates and
their ability to suffer a little
tropical heat?
(beat)
The Company has given ample
provision to supply these ships
with precisely what is required.
(beat)
We’ll discuss this later at a more
unpleasing time.
Herries consciously refrains himself from responding and
instead nods obediently and makes his way back to the lower
decks.
EXT. WATER OF LEITH – DAY
Extended view of the fleet leaving Edinburgh and Leith on
journey into the North Sea. A boy scuttles to the top of a
hill overlooking the fleet.
PATERSON (V.O.)
It was a fine and dignified sight
to see those wondrous and
spectacular ships finally depart
our greyed shores to their hope and
our salvation. No course can ever
be completely predicted. And this
appeared to differ in no way.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DAY
Members of the Council: Major James CUNNINGHAM; Captain
Robert JOLLY; Daniel MACKAY; Captain James MONTGOMERIE;
Captain Pennecuik; Captain Pincarton. Apart from MacKay they
are all in their military colours. Blue for Navy; Red for
Army.
Cunningham (Army) is tall and skinny has a long moustache and
an air of distain about his surroundings. Jolly (Navy) is
plump and red-cheeked always looking rather tired. MacKay is
dressed in a brown outfit. Pincarton (Navy) is has a well
balanced frame and a kindly manner about him.
Pennecuik is looking over some papers on his desk. He is
fuming.
PENNECUIK
Gentlemen, thank you for your
inventory lists. It is plain to see
that we only have enough provisions
for four months at sea, not nine!
How, by God’s name, did this
happen?
The room is silent. Jolly raises his hand to his forehead and
breaths deeply. Cunningham scoffs.
CAPTAIN ROBERT JOLLY
Seems like much was taken up while
we were docked.
PENNECUIK
Aye. But not half of the whole
stock, wouldn’t you agree Captain
Jolly?
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
This looks like a right naval cock
up as far as I can tell.
PENNECUIK
Don’t be impertinent Cunningham.
You land officers should have no
place on this council. I am
commander here. This is my fleet.
You will respect that.
CAPTAIN MONTGOMERIE
Should we consider turning back?
PENNECUIK
Not likely. What on Earth would
they think back in Leith, hum? If
we turn back with our tails between
our legs like some runt… No!
We’ll set course for the Orkneys
and replenish our provisions there.
Try and reverse this ‘cock-up’ as
you put it Cunningham.
(beat)
Well, the Company may be clueless
but at least your naval masters are
in control of the situation. We
should be making good progress
tomorrow.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Foggy North Sea with no visibility. Bells ring out from
ships. Men shouting out in anguish.
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
(frantically)
Sir, we’ve lost contact with the
other ships in this fog. What shall
we do?
PENNECUIK
No need to panic Lieutenant. All
good planning involves a little
improvisation. We’ll head straight
to the Atlantic. Have no fear.
(quietly)
And I would appreciate it if you
didn’t spread any fear on this
ship. Fire a cannon shot every
fifteen minutes to let the other
ships know where we are. If you
need me, I’ll be dining in my
cabin.
INT. ST ANDREW BELOW DECKS – DAY
A cannon shot rings out from the St Andrew. A faint musket
shot is returned from a ship. Below decks are the land men
huddled tightly together. Private HENDERSON is about sixteen
and full of enthusiasm. Corporal MCALLISTER is about eighteen
and acts like the re-assuring older brother. Sergeant PEARSON
is negative and sceptical.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
I can’t see a thing out there.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
We appear to be losing the other
ships as well.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Why won’t they let us on deck?
We’re packed worse than cattle for
the slaughter in here.
SERGEANT PEARSON
I’m afraid it’s those naval
officers. They don’t want the likes
of us land-loving folk getting to
breath their fresh air.
(beat)
Don’t worry. They’ll get us through
this.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
And did you see that Thomas
Drummond is on the Caledonia? His
brother is the ship’s captain.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
The infamous Captain Thomas
Drummond from the Massacre of
Glencoe?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
The very same.
SERGEANT PEARSON
There are a lot of Highlanders out
there who would like to see his
head on a pike.
A highlander sat in the corner overhears the conversation and
simply raises his eye level to the direction of conversion,
makes no expression and lowers it.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
The Unicorn breaks out of the fog and into the clear blue
skies of the Atlantic Ocean.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
Pincarton and Paterson observe from the rear deck the bank of
fog they have appeared from.
PINCARTON
Thank God for that mercy. We may
have missed Orkney but we’re out of
the soup.
PATERSON
Where do you think we are Captain?
PINCARTON
I think we’ve passed the Outer
Hebrides and are into the Atlantic
Ocean. And I’d wager, we’re ahead
of the others too.
PATERSON
How do you rank Pennecuik?
PINCARTON
(thoughtfully)
He’s a stubborn fool to be sure but
he knows his way around ships and
keeps control of his men Ð which is
important, especially on a long
journey as the likes of ours.
(beat)
I wouldn’t tackle the man head-on
Paterson.
PATERSON
Oh, I’m not that foolish.
PINCARTON
Look, that’s Jolly and the
Endeavour I believe.
They watch the Endeavour break from the clutches of the fog.
PINCARTON (CONT’D)
Wind’s stirring! We’ll tack back to
the Endeavour but then we can’t
wait, not when this winds offers
herself up.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
Ships breaking through the waves making their way across the
Atlantic Ocean. The wind is strong and two ships are in full
sail: the Endeavour and the Unicorn.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
Paterson and Captain Robert Pincarton stand on the bridge.
Mrs Paterson strolls the deck wearing a long brown dress.
Nothing too elegant but fits well against her waist.
PATERSON
There’s something about the Ocean
that reminds you that you are
mortal.
PINCARTON
A freak wave and we are gone.
PATERSON
I remember my first voyage. I was
so young, full of intrigue in this
world; the wonders that lay ahead.
No fear.
He surveys his wife walking around the lower deck. As she
looks over the starboard a spray of sea water splashes of the
side onto the deck. She yelps and jumps back to safety. A
little too late.
PINCARTON
Are you in fear for your wife?
PATERSON
I suppose I am.
PINCARTON
It’s true; there are a lot of
ladies. It brings a slightly more
humane environment but our work at
the other end of this journey is
likely not to lend itself to the
skills of our delightful company.
PATERSON
What made you sign up to this
expedition Captain? You will have
noticed few Englishmen if any.
PINCARTON
A simple wage I suppose. This is
what I do. I live on the sea. It is
my home.
Great storms I respect but I do not
fear them. Find yourself in the
doldrums and a crew dying of thirst
Ð that’s something to worry about.
The sea is fair and good. Respect
it and hope that it respects you.
(pause)
May I ask why you are onboard?
PATERSON
My dream has been to establish a
colony – a trading post. In a way,
it seems that everything is drawing
me to this point. Though the
turbulent times up to now were
enough to make even a seasoned
master of the seas as yourself sick
as a dog, I feel it was all for a
just purpose. Maybe I never
originally expected me to actually
be here in body, at my age, sailing
the impressive and daunting ocean.
But, it is just. It is God’s will
that I should be here with those
people who I had in mind designed
to send to take this new land for
our blessed Country.
PINCARTON
With Gods Will, your Vision and
some crafty navigational handling
from myself, I think we are in safe
hands.
Both gently chuckle. Paterson’s wife continues to stroll the
decks patting herself dry from the wave that soaked her.
PATERSON
If you’d excuse me Captain.
Pincarton nods, steps away and Paterson makes his way down to
his wife. She turns as she senses his arrival.
MRS PATERSON
(smiling)
You seem in good humour. I hope
it’s not due to me!
PATERSON
Just conversing with the Captain,
making sure he’s got it all under
control!
He winks. She laughs.
MRS PATERSON
Well, out of the fog and into the
great wide perilous sea. But I feel
very safe with you here my darling.
I wouldn’t want to be anywhere
else.
She pulls in closely to him for warmth.
PATERSON
You’re soaked. And now so am I!
He takes his coat off and wraps it around his wife.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Things are looking very well. We’ll
rendezvous with the rest of the
fleet at Madeira; take on fresh
provisions and head down to the
Indies. There should be nothing to
it really.
MRS PATERSON
And what if it’s not the Indies?
PATERSON
Then I shall eat one of the many
hats I have seen in those
storerooms and have myself
keelhauled for utter incompetence.
MRS PATERSON
Thank you William – for always
being you. Never has a more
honourable man set forward with a
more honourable task than that man
whom I hold close to me now.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
The Unicorn and the Endeavour continue to crash through the
waves.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
A shout from the crow’s nest.
SHIP’S LOOKOUT
Land, ahoy!
EXT. MADEIRA DOCKS – DAY
Unicorn and Endeavour are docked. Large barrels are being
hauled on board. Mrs Paterson and Captain Pincarton are in
conversation. Paterson strolls the decks.
MRS PATERSON
That is an awful lot of wine
wouldn’t you agree Captain?
PINCARTON
Company’s orders ma’am. Nothing to
be done about it I’m afraid.
(beat)
Mind you, does come in handy in
those council meetings. Quite a
dull affair.
MRS PATERSON
You need more women organising
these ships if you ask me.
PINCARTON
You may be right there, ma’am.
A pipe of wine slips and is caught by Pincarton and another
sailor. Pincarton rolls it away with the sailor safely.
Paterson approaches his wife.
PATERSON
Challenging our great company my
dear?
MRS PATERSON
Never, my love! Just it’s
reasoning.
COLIN CAMPBELL
Captain! The Saint Andrew is
entering the harbour.
The Saint Andrew steadily makes its way into the harbour
closely followed by The Caledonia and The Dolphin.
Cheers go up from those on board the Unicorn. Followed by
cheers on the neighbouring vessel, The Endeavour.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – NIGHT
Wine is generously poured out to all the members of the
Council by Douglas, Pennecuik’s cabin boy. There is one empty
chair at the table.
Members of the Council: Major James Cunningham; Captain
Robert Jolly; Daniel MacKay; Captain James Montgomerie;
Captain Pennecuik; Captain Pincarton.
PENNECUIK
Well, if that’s settled…
He looks each member of the council in turn.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Douglas, could you ask Mr Paterson
to join us please? He should be
waiting on deck.
Douglas, Pennecuik’s cabin boy heads out of the door and
closes it behind him.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Well, it is now my duty to unseal
our orders. Where are they…ah,
yes. Here we go.
Door opens, Paterson steps through.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Paterson, delighted you could join
us. We’ve had a spare place on the
Council, due to Captain Vetch
falling ill and all that. So, we’ve
had a little vote and it was nearly
unanimous. If you’d be so inclined,
we could really use your expertise
on this Council?
PATERSON
I’d be honoured Captain.
PENNECUIK
Well, grab a chair, there. I’m just
opening our orders.
Paterson sits while Pennecuik breaks the seal on the letter,
unrolls the scroll and reads to himself muttering. The
councillors shuffle.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
We are to head to Crab Island, in
the Caribbean, to pick up fresh
supplies and then on to the Bay of
Darien and Golden Island.
He rolls the scroll back up.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
There we have it gentlemen. It
appears it is all official now; we
are indeed headed to Mr Paterson’s
Darien. I suggest we let the crew
know tomorrow and set sail soon
after, assuming we have all the
provisions loaded. Meanwhile, I
think we should hear more of Darien
Mr Paterson, why don’t we chat over
a glass of Madeira wine. There
seems to be quite a bit of it going
around at the moment.
They laugh and Pennecuik pours Paterson a glass of wine.
EXT. DOCKS OF MADEIRA – NIGHT
The docks are filled with seamen, landmen and merchants. The
seamen and landmen are drinking heavily, singing songs and
generally having a good, drunken time.
Private Henderson staggers violently but is caught by
Sergeant Pearson.
SERGEANT PEARSON
Let’s be freshening you up Lad!
He takes the man and plunges his head into large barrel of
water on the dockside.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
Man is hauled from the water, gasping. He is being dunked
from the main yard of the ship, on a rope, as a celebration
of crossing the Tropic of Cancer. Cheers from his colleagues.
COLIN CAMPBELL
No stop! You can have my rations!
He is dunked back into the sea. Roars of approval all around.
Mrs Paterson, Pincarton and William Paterson look on.
MRS PATERSON
Can’t you let the poor fella go?
PINCARTON
We are entering the Southern
Hemisphere. The first time for this
unfortunate soul. It’s just a
tradition of the sea.
MRS PATERSON
I don’t understand you men.
PINCARTON
I don’t think you need to.
PATERSON
I think there is little mystery in
us. We all have different dreams
and aspirations, and are equipped
differently in order to try and
fulfil them. But apart from that we
are simple creatures of this world;
now the complex weaving of a
women’s mind Ð that is a deep, dark
mystery will, with luck, remain
unexplored, for I am sure it will
never be conquered.
MRS PATERSON
Really? Huh. Well, I shall leave
you gentlemen to whatever this
ritual is and find something less
aspirational to do in my cabin.
(beat)
Good day gentlemen.
They both nod to her as she departs.
PATERSON
I’m going to propose to the Council
a little detour.
PINCARTON
Really?
PATERSON
Yes, I know a Captain on the island
of St Thomas. He will be able to
pilot us to Golden Island safely.
We can rendezvous with the other
ships at Crab Island Ð it should
only delay us by a day or two.
PINCARTON
Sounds reasonable. It’s true that
no one in this fleet has ever been
to the Spanish Main. We’ll have to
take one of the other ships as
well, of course. We don’t want to
find ourselves in difficulty on our
own in this Ocean.
PATERSON
Agreed.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
The fleet of five ships make their way through the sea. Two
ships, The Unicorn and The Dolphin peel off and head further
North. The others maintain their course.
EXT. ON DECK OF THE SAINT ANDREW – DAY
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
Crab Island Captain
PENNECUIK
Well, let’s find safe harbour; get
ashore and take a claim for Bonny
Scotland. What do ya say?
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
I’ll ready the men Sir.
The Lieutenant scuttles off.
PENNECUIK
This Scottish Empire has just got a
whole lot bigger!
EXT. ANCHORED OFF THE BEACH OF CRAB ISLAND – DAY
One boat is lowered from each of the three ships. Ten
soldiers in each with four sailors. On the boat from the
Saint Andrew, once lowered, the sailors nudge themselves away
from the bow of the ship. They settle into place and row
towards shore.
EXT. BEACH OF CRAB ISLAND – DAY
Two boats beach themselves through the surf. A dozen men leap
out of the boats, splashing through the shallow water and
drag their vessels safely away from the waves. Captain Thomas
Drummond takes the Scottish Standard and plants it deep into
the sand.
The men roar. Large smiles all around.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Pennecuik smiles broadly as he watches the scenes onshore.
WALTER HERRIES
That was a brave decision captain
sending a Drummond to take the
Island.
PENNECUIK
What do you mean?
WALTER HERRIES
Just that he is ambitious.
(whispers)
Word has reached my surgeon ears
that we’ll have a mutiny on our
hands before the end of this
voyage.
PENNECUIK
Pish-paff!
SHIP’S LOOKOUT
Ship ahoy Captain!
Pennecuik moves to the other side of the ship and sees a
small sloop approaching flying Dutch colours.
PENNECUIK
Hmm.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DAY
Pennecuik is sat behind his desk, thoughtful. Opposite is a
delegation of Dutch seamen, led by Captain Van Kelp.
PENNECUIK
Seems like everything is in order.
We may have been a little
enthusiastic regarding ‘claiming’
this Island for Scotland.
(beat)
I shall have our lads remove the
flags.
(beat)
We aren’t aiming to stay here long,
just enough time to regroup and
refresh some of our supplies.
CAPTAIN VAN KELP
Oh, please, stay as long as you
desire. Crab Island has charm has
it not? In fact, it would be of
considerable benefit if you did.
(lowering his voice)
You see the Spanish are quite
active around here and you would
act as a very important buffer
between them and us!
Pennecuik coughs, his eyebrows begin to lose control.
PENNECUIK
Really?
(beat)
Well, as I say, we’ll load up with
fresh water and press on anyway.
Thank you so much for offer though.
(resentfully)
Care for another glass of wine
Captain?
Van Kelp pushes his glass forward grinning for Pennecuik to
pour.
EXT. BEACH OF CRAB ISLAND – DUSK
Scottish Standard is hurled into a boat next to large
barrels. The six seamen push the boat back into the oncoming
surf. Thomas Drummond stands on the beach looking back to the
ships.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
(frustratingly)
Pennecuik!
EXT. TAPHUS, HARBOUR OF ST THOMAS – DAY
A hive of activity. The street is lined with ale houses.
Dutch flags fly from multiple buildings. Paterson and
Pincarton stroll purposefully along the promenade.
Captain Robert Alliston is an old, grey-haired man; tall and
fit for his age. His skin is weathered. He wears a long,
threadbare, black cloak and carries a limp.
Paterson sees Alliston.
PATERSON
Captain Alliston!
ALLISTON
William!
They embrace. Alliston has a West Country accent.
PATERSON
Good to see you looking so well.
These climes do suit you. Allow me
to introduce Captain Robert
Pincarton of The Unicorn.
ALLISTON
A pleasure to meet you Captain. I
have heard rumours of a great
expedition undertaken by the great
Scottish nation.
PINCARTON
Indeed, we are the fortunate ones
to take part in such a prestigious
affair.
ALLISTON
Well, I wish you all the best.
Darien is it?
PATERSON
Absolutely – but how did…
ALLISTON
Word travels fast around these
parts. Darien, a beautiful part of
the world – though a little too
damp for my ageing bones. I had the
pleasure of travelling across the
Isthmus a few years ago with
Captain Sharpe.
PINCARTON
Is that the same Captain Sharpe
that the Portuguese have imprisoned
for 99 years?
ALLISTON
Yeah, I never like those Portuguese
either!
Alliston laughs heartily. Pincarton remains cautious.
ALLISTON (CONT’D)
Alas, I have even more interesting
news that I think you would both be
interested in. Follow me.
They follow Captain Alliston through some streets to a
tavern. Off of the main street, things are a little wilder
but not intolerable to the Scots.
INT. TAPHUS TAVERN – DAY
Filled with a variety of buccaneers, ex-convicts and
drunkards, the tavern is choking with tobacco smoke.
ALLISTON
William, I believe you know our
fellow Captain, on his way from New
York.
(beat)
Richard!
A man is in conversation at a table with two other merchants.
He turns around to address Alliston.
RICHARD MOON
Alliston! What are you after now?
(shocked)
Blimey! It’s Paterson in the flesh
and blood! Unbelievable!
He stands up and embraces Paterson. Moon is younger than
Alliston, Paterson’s age.
PATERSON
Captain Richard Moon. It has been
so many years!
RICHARD MOON
Yep. Fifteen I’d say Ð at least.
What the devil are you doing here?
This is no sort of town for the
likes of you. Get out before you
get yourself killed.
PATERSON
Ha! I’ll be fine. Everyone knows a
Scotsman doesn’t carry any money
with him.
They laugh. Pincarton only manages a wry smile. He is
agitated about his surroundings and his new company. He’s on
edge.
RICHARD MOON
Sit down please.
He turns to the men he had been conversing with.
RICHARD MOON (CONT’D)
Gentlemen, would you mind if we
pick up our conversation tomorrow.
If that is not of any
inconvenience.
The gentlemen (who look rough but mercantile) dutifully move
out of their seats, tipping their hats to all and depart.
Pincarton, Paterson and Allison join Moon at the table.
RICHARD MOON (CONT’D)
So, Darien then? Yes?
PINCARTON
How could you know?
RICHARD MOON
Don’t worry. I won’t tell a soul!
Moon and Alliston both laugh and Paterson manages to break
into a smile.
PATERSON
And how is life treating you?
RICHARD MOON
Well. I’ve got my own ship and
we’re trading wherever we can. I’ve
a boatload from New York as it
happens.
PATERSON
What sort of supplies?
RICHARD MOON
Grain, meat, the usual. I’m heading
to Curacao; pick up some slaves
from there and then back here.
That’s the meeting you interrupted
was about. The market here is huge.
Those sugar plantations just can’t
get enough of those Negros.
PATERSON
Well, Richard, we have goods to
trade should you wish to save on
the journey to Curacao.
RICHARD MOON
That could prove useful to be
honest.
PATERSON
We’re heading to meet the rest of
our fleet at Crab Island within the
week.
RICHARD MOON
Okay. A deal. I’ll stop by. See
what you have. But now, gentlemen
(beat)
let me invite you to a little of
our local specialities and you can
tell me all about Darien. Max!
Bring me that rum you’ve been
hiding!
A bar steward brings out a cask of rum that he places on the
table. All smile with good humour. Pincarton still reticent.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
The ships weigh anchor and departs the Island of St Thomas.
They are accompanied by a Jamaican sloop. Cannons are fired
as ceremony dictates both from ship and from shore.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DAY
Council meeting. Cunningham; Jolly; MacKay; Montgomerie;
Pennecuik; Herries. Pennecuik in a fuming rage.
PENNECUIK
Insulted by the Dutch! Disgusting
business. And those mutinous
Drummonds are at it again. We shall
send them back to St. Thomas. There
they can carry on with the
conniving ways. Here no longer! Not
under my command.
CAPTAIN ROBERT JOLLY
They are different creatures to us.
That’s all. We shouldn’t act
hastily.
CAPTAIN MONTGOMERIE
I concur with Robert. We shouldn’t
make waves with these men. They are
battle-hardened soldiers with a
deep history in our country. They
haven’t actually done anything yet,
have they?
PENNECUIK
Pish-paff! They are insolent! They
have been constructing schemes that
I dare not divulge to all here lest
it get back to those conspirators
by disloyal means.
DANIEL MACKAY
Gentlemen! This is a ridiculous
state of affairs. The Drummonds
prove an insignificant threat. But
should they be a threat, I would
like them to be it on the ground,
in our colony against any
adversaries. Not on board these
ships.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
There could be a sensible means to
solve this.
On our council we are somewhat
biased to the sea-skilled
professionals…an adjustment to
more fairly represent the landmen
would be sensible.
PENNECUIK
Are you utterly insane? I lead this
fleet. This is a naval undertaking
and there will be no subordination
here by petty land officers. They
may be landed gentry but they have
no eye for the sea. They have their
lines, ditches and parapets but
while we brace the mother Ocean,
they will not have voice on this
council.
General muttering around the table. Pennecuik is the bully
and will not listen.
WALTER HERRIES
More wine please! Let’s get this
awful taste of mutiny off this
table and some of that wonderful
Madeira wine onto it!
Chuckles. A melee of noise and bottles being exchanged while
Herries pulls Pennecuik towards him and whispers.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
Commander, you are no longer aboard
a King’s ship. Those you address or
those you insult are gentlemen,
gentlemen of influence back home.
This ship is owned by the Company
of Scotland…
Pennecuik looks at Herries momentarily startled. Then his
expression changes as he stands and addresses the room.
PENNECUIK
Gentlemen, let’s toast the health
of us all on this voyage.
Mutterings from the room in agreement.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
The Unicorn approaches Crab Island along with the Dolphin and
Captain Moon’s Jamaican sloop. Pincarton and Paterson on
desk.
PINCARTON
How much can we trust that pirate
of yours Paterson?
PATERSON
Oh, I know he looks rough enough
but he certainly will know these
waters better than anyone else.
PINCARTON
That’s not saying much though is
it?
PATERSON
No. True.
INT. ST ANDREW STOREROOM – DAY
Richard Moon is examining the inventory lists.
RICHARD MOON
Captain Pennecuik, this inventory
is shocking.
PENNECUIK
In what way?
RICHARD MOON
How many wigs do you really need in
order to trade with Indians? You
have shoes and slippers, none of
which will be suitable for the
tropical weather you will encounter
in Darien; stockings, plaiding.
(beat)
And if I were interested in these,
I certainly would not be interest
in them at these prices. You are
going to have a hard time of
finding a buyer for any of this
lot.
PENNECUIK
There are plenty of colonial
outposts up and down the Americas
who would be very pleased to
purchase many of these items. We
have absolutely no intention of
selling these to the Indians. Don’t
be preposterous. As for the price,
that has been set by the Council
and we shall not move on it.
RICHARD MOON
Then I wish you good day Sir and
shall continue my voyage to
Curacao. There I shall find goods I
can sell.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Richard Moon makes his way across deck to his sloop.
PATERSON
Richard!
RICHARD MOON
Sorry William. There’s not really
anything on board these ships that
I can sell on and certainly not at
a profit. The prices are as
outrageous as the attitude of that
Captain Pennecuik of yours.
PATERSON
I know. I’ve spoken to some of the
council members and they won’t
compromise on the prices set out by
the company. Promise me this
though: you’ll bring supplies to
Darien for us once we’ve
established a foothold?
RICHARD MOON
(beat)
Sure. Look, I’ve got to go while
the wind is with us. God be with
you and your expedition William.
PATERSON
You too Richard. Farewell.
Moon makes his way down to his sloop that is tethered to St
Andrew.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – MOMENTS LATER
Pennecuik, in fowl mood, grabs Paterson by the arm.
PENNECUIK
Has the awful English Moon gone
yet?
PATERSON
He is just leaving now.
PENNECUIK
Right, let’s press on.
(beat)
Well! Off you go Paterson back to
the Unicorn. I have your pirate.
He’d better know what he’s doing.
(beat)
Lieutenant! Make ready to sail to
Golden Island. Alliston!!
As the ships begin to set sail, the dead are thrown overboard
with a quick sermon from a minister.
EXT. BEACH OF CRAB ISLAND – DAY
Captain Thomas Drummond’s company are on the beach. A cannon
shot is fired from the Saint Andrew.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Right! That’s the signal. Everyone
back to the ship.
(under his breath)
Let’s not keep our Naval masters
waiting!
Lieutenant Pascal runs along the beach towards Thomas
Drummond rifle stiffly against his side.
LIEUTENANT PASCAL
Sir, there’s a problem with
Pearson. He’s refusing to leave.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
What?
LIEUTENANT PASCAL
He’s been rambling on about death
and mayhem. He wants to stay. What
shall we do?
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
I’ll have that fool flogged.
They stroll briskly over to a group of soldiers on the beach
where a raving Sergeant Michael Pearson is shouting and
wielding a pistol.
SERGEANT PEARSON
Lads! This has been hell to get
here. We were caged like wild dogs
for weeks at a time. No peace, no
information. The food is completely
insufficient, the water reeks.
The naval officers treat us like
shit and no one does anything to
stop them. Do you know what’s
ahead? More pain, more discomfort,
more high-ranking dumping on us
regulars and more bodies thrown
overboard.
Thomas Drummond slows to listen to the ranting.
SERGEANT PEARSON (CONT’D)
If that’s your future I shall be
leaving you to it for I, Michael
Pearson says farewell to you all.
May you each find you God and make
your peace with him.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
(aside)
With luck he’ll shoot himself.
He takes his musket. Turns his back and runs off into the
thicket of trees, shouting:
SERGEANT PEARSON
Goodbye Darien! Goodbye Officers!
Goodbye rations! Welcome freedom!
Drummond makes his way through the company.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Don’t worry; Pearson’s just had a
little too much exposure to the
sun. The Dutch will look after him;
the island is theirs. Let us re
embark.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
How will he survive sir?
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Crabs!
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Alliston, Pennecuik observe the horizon from the helm. No
land can be seen. Just the clear blue sky meeting with the
deep blue sea.
PENNECUIK
These waters are hard to read
Alliston; I do confess that much.
ALLISTON
Indeed they are. Gales come from
nowhere and you can be stuck in the
doldrums for weeks with not a
breath of air to fill ye sails.
PENNECUIK
Are we close?
ALLISTON
We’re close to land.
PENNECUIK
Are we close to Darien?
ALLISTON
That is a trickier question.
PENNECUIK
How long have you been a pirate
Alliston?
ALLISTON
I am not pirate.
(proudly)
I’m a buccaneer. I was once a
privateer, working for His Majesty.
And maybe before that, a long time
ago, there was a little lifting of
burdens from the Spanish for our
company’s sake.
PENNECUIK
Like the sacking of Santa Maria?
ALLISTON
That was one hell of a tough march,
I’ll tell you. Captain Sharpe was a
fearsome character.
(wryly)
No less than yourself Sir!
Pennecuik remains stone-faced.
SHIP’S LOOKOUT
Land ahoy! Land ahoy!
Lieutenant McDonald scuttles up to the helm.
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
Captain. More dead Sir.
PENNECUIK
Well? Throw them overboard with a
prayer.
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
The last minister has been taken
ill Sir.
PENNECUIK
Oh. Such inconvenience! I’ll do it.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
The fleet follows a cliff face southwards. The Caribbean Sea
crashes against the coastline against sharp impenetrable
rocks.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
The deck is being washed down. Smoke emits from the lower
decks and creates a low fog across the deck of the Unicorn.
PINCARTON
Still Paterson, the death toll
could have been worse.
PATERSON
Agreed. It is a pity though. So
many lives that held so much hope.
PINCARTON
I haven’t seen any pistol shots
coming from the St Andrew. Have
you?
PATERSON
No. How do you mean?
PINCARTON
Well, I didn’t think Alliston would
manage to suffer Pennecuik this
long to be honest. “Pirate and the
Sea Lord!”
Mrs Paterson arrives at the helm.
MRS PATERSON
No jokes at my expense I hope
Captain?
PINCARTON
No, ma’am. Us sea-creatures don’t
laugh at treasure but we do tend to
gaze at it too long for our own
good. You look radiant today ma’am.
PATERSON
Flattery Captain will get you
everywhere!
MRS PATERSON
And as your reward Captain…
Mrs Paterson brings her hands from behind her back and
presents a apple tart.
PATERSON
My word.
PINCARTON
Splendid.
They reach for the plate.
MRS PATERSON
Oh no. After your dinner boys.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
A stubborn Alliston stands resolutely pointing in the
direction that he believes Darien is. Pennecuik is animated,
frustrated and crashes his way through some of his crew as he
makes to create space between Alliston and himself.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
Pincarton looks to the sails. The sails hang lifeless while
the sun bakes down on his face. His lips show signs of
dryness.
INT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
Men lie about in the lower decks in their cramped
surroundings. Some are sick with the pox others are pale and
gaunt.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
How much longer?
A strut of wood has several scores of marks on it. McAllister
looks up.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
It won’t be long now lad.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
I have to get out of here.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
They won’t let you.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
So much water – everywhere. It’s
just not fair.
McAllister gets up and takes a look out of the porthole.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
You’re not dead yet, we’ve got
enough for another few weeks I
would wager.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Weeks?
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
A minister stands at the alter under the sun mumbling
prayers. Pennecuik paces the deck.
He stops and looks to the sails. They remain lifeless.
A heavy body is carried across the decks partially covered by
a blanket. Highland braids can be seen hanging from the body.
Herries walks up to Pennecuik.
WALTER HERRIES
No ceremony Commander?
PENNECUIK
Not for the heathen.
The body is hauled overboard.
A wisp of air hits Pennecuik and Herries in the face. The
minister has fallen silent. They look to the sail. It
flutters in the breeze.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Gentlemen! To the rigging!
Sea men scramble across the decks. The minister crosses
himself with a final prayer before picking up his precious
alter pieces and scurrying off below decks.
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN – DAY
The ships enter the bay of Darien. A large lagoon stretches
before them. The shores are a deep, rich green hue and
beaches protrude sporadically along the shoreline.
Exotic birds fill the skies, flying fish leap in the mid
distance while dolphin tussle with the breaking waves across
the bowes of the ships.
The Unicorn enters the bay and scrapes against a hidden rock
at the entrance to the bay. Men cry out in alarm and the
Unicorn lists to her starboard.
INT. THE UNICORN BENEATH DECK – DAY
The hull suddenly buckles and water bursts through washing
two men off their feet. Shouts ensue barking commands and
several planks for wood are pressed against the hull and
nailed into place. The water subsides.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Native Indians clamber aboard the St Andrew. One is finely
decked out in bird-bone vest and feathers. Pennecuik
ceremonially presents the Tule leader with a razor, a pen and
a Caledonian flag. The Tule are short, tanned and proud.
The Tule leader waits smiling.
PENNECUIK
(mutters to Herries)
What more do they want?
The Tule leader makes drinking mime.
WALTER HERRIES
I think you’ll find some of that
famous Scottish whiskey may come in
handy Commander.
PENNECUIK
Pish-paff! Give them a keg of
Madeira.
The Tule company row away gleefully happy with their hoard.
EXT. DARIEN WOODS – DAY
Daniel MacKay (donned in a straw hat and waistcoat), Thomas
Drummond and two other officers are walking through the thick
undergrowth astounded by their surroundings. Monkeys swing in
the trees. The surface is slippery and Daniel MacKay slips.
He sinks knee deep and is pulled out by the two officers.
Drummond watches from a safe distance.
DANIEL MACKAY
What fortune! With bog like this we
are sure to find this new world
teaming with all sorts of new
undiscovered creatures. An absolute
paradise.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
MacKay! Stop fooling around. This
is a scouting mission not a
botanist’s playground.
DANIEL MACKAY
(chuckling under his
breath)
Oh, but it is dear Drummond.
EXT. CALEDONIA – DAY
Soldiers dig ditches for fortifications. It is hot. The men
are thirsty and suffering in the humidity.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Is there any water left?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Not on this shore. Plenty on those
boats though and they’re not giving
it up easily.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Why are we digging here? This is
far too sandy.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
It’s easier for the boats from the
ships to come here than anywhere
else along this shore. Sailors
aren’t that good when it comes to
making land.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
What are you men wingeing about?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Nothing Sir.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Nothing Sir.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Keep it that way or I’ll have you
both flogged.
Captain Thomas Drummond takes a close look at the ditches
being dug. He walks away.
EXT. PATERSON’S HUT – DAY
Smoke from pipes billow out from Paterson’s hut. A Council
Meeting is taking place.
The council has expanded. They are the original: Major James
Cunningham; Captain Robert Jolly; Daniel MacKay; Captain
James Montgomerie; Captain Pennecuik; Captain Pincarton.
Plus: Captain Thomas Drummond (Army).
They sit on wooden deck chairs with a round table at the
centre. Wine glasses and a large wine jug sit on the table.
PENNECUIK
The position of fort shall not be
changed!
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
It simply has to. The ground falls
away at every spade full of sand
removed. A structure such as we
wish to build will not stand.
PENNECUIK
Nonsense.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
Our men are toiling out there every
day, burning their backs for no
success.
PENNECUIK
Pish-paff! I suggest if they don’t
know what success is it is simply
that you have not shown them it.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
This Council must move the site.
PENNECUIK
To the vote!
(eyeing the naval
officers)
And make sure it’s the right vote
Gentlemen.
(beat)
Ayes?
DRUMMOND/CUNNINGHAM/PATERSON
Aye
PENNECUIK
Nays?
JOLLY/PINCARTON/PENNECUIK/MACKAY/MO
TGOMERIE
Nay
PENNECUIK
That’s settled. Meeting adjourned!
All storm out of the hut, Paterson and Cunningham remain.
INT. THE UNICORN STOREROOM – NIGHT
Ten men break into the store on the Unicorn and take muskets
and provisions.
EXT. DARIEN WOODS – NIGHT
The ten men scurry through the woods with their loot.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Pennecuik fumes from the top deck. A lieutenant stands near
to him.
PENNECUIK
What! These land-lovers were all
born without a spine. Send word to
that Drummond that they are his
responsibility and if he doesn’t
have them back by nightfall, I’ll
have him locked up in irons.
EXT. FORT CONSTRUCTION – DAY
Landmen continue to dig in the sand. Drummond is yelling in
the distance to some officers near the woods.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
At least Drummond will be busy
today!
PRIVATE HENDERSON
I’m not digging any more. This is
utter madness. What the hell are we
achieving?
McAllister sits down. Sweat drips off of him.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
We’re not being whipped.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
We should have run with those
loafers.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
There’s nowhere to run to here. Why
would they try to flee? Two days on
your own out there and you’re dead
Ð for sure.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Do all paths lead to death?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
For a dunderheed that’s pretty
philosophical.
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN – DAY
There is thunder and lightening. The whole bay is dark
despite being daytime and is illuminated by periodic flashes.
The rain begins and is a torrent.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – NIGHT
Heavy rain thuds against Pennecuik’s cabin window. Inside he
has several military uniforms laid out, a rack of swords, a
large four-poster bed and a gold-enamelled desk upon which he
is writing a letter. A bottle of scotch whiskey is open on
his desk and his glass is half full.
PENNECUIK (V.O.)
It is with great pleasure that I
inform the Company that we are
successfully establishing the town
of New Edinburgh within the
settlement of Caledonia. The
climate is perfect for foraging,
hunting, farming and building. The
bay itself is capable of containing
a thousand sail of the best ships
in the world. And without great
trouble wharves may be run out, to
which ships of the greatest burden
may lay their sides and unload.
INT. SHARED QUARTERS – NIGHT
Colin Campbell, Pincarton’s apprentice writes at his desk.
The room moves gently with the swell of the waves and is
dimly lit with candles.
Hammocks are strung between the rafters with twenty in this
room. Three men are playing cards while the others sleep in
their hammocks.
COLIN CAMPBELL (V.O.)
I yearn to get off of this wretched
vessel. Every day I see the shore
and the men toiling their labour
for our Caledonia. Yet, our
officers would see none of it. For
on shore, the landsmen are full of
pox and flux. We are forbidden to
engage them and if I did then
Captain Pincarton would never own
me or speak to me any more.
INT. SHARED HUT – NIGHT
A tent shields the occupants from the thunderous rain. It is
peppered by the torrential onslaught. Candles flicker as
McAllister writes.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER (V.O.)
Hell is Darien.
EXT. DARIEN WOODS – NIGHT
MacKay in the dark with lanterns stumbles through the Darien
woods. Corporal McAllister is one of the men following him
with a lantern.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER (V.O.)
We know no break in the weather. It
rains a day here more than we may
see in a year at home. This
Promised Land is nothing but a
swamp bringing disease by the day
and taking corpses by the night.
EXT. COMMUNAL PIT – MOMENTS LATER
The torrential rain continues and two men swing a corpse into
the communal pit. One slips at the edge after releasing the
body. He is caught and pulled away by the other.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER (V.O.)
The stench rising higher every day,
fuelling the heavens that pour down
misery to our beaten and starved
souls. God is punishing us Ð though
for what I cannot tell. All the
minsters are with their Lord.
INT. SHARED HUT – NIGHT
Roger OSWALD writes on a parchment in his hammock. The ink
balances precariously on his thigh as he scribes the words.
Oswald is slight, about 16 years of age and has a sweet face.
However, his face turns to a scour when he begins to write.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
A queue of land men, shoulders hunched line up to a large
black cauldron on the beach under the rain. The cauldron,
officer and chef are covered by a small make-shift tent.
ROGER OSWALD (V.O.)
When boiled with a little water,
without anything else, big maggots
and worms must be skimmed off the
top of the broth. In short a man
might easily have destroyed his
whole week’s rations in one day and
have but one ordinary stomach
neither.
EXT. FORT CONSTRUCTION – DAY
Men drive axes and shovels into the ground under the
blistering sun.
ROGER OSWALD
Yet for all this short allowance we
were every man (let him never be so
weak) daily turned out to work by
daylight, whether with a hatchet,
wheelbarrow, pick-axe, shovel,
hammer or any other instrument the
case required. My shoulders have
been so worn with carrying burdens
that the skin has come off them and
grew full of boils.
INT. PATERSON’S HUT – NIGHT
Animated councillors argue. Pennecuik stands up yelling
indistinctly at Thomas Drummond.
ROGER OSWALD
(bitterly)
Our Councillors all the time lying
at their ease, sometimes divided
into factions, being swayed by
particular interest, ruined the
public.
INT. DANIEL MACKAY’S CABIN – NIGHT
Writing (to the Earl of Leven), Daniel MacKay, sits in his
cabin surrounded by books, plants and stuffed animals. He
smiles gleefully. A small exotic parrot sits in a cage on his
desk eyeing MacKay, hopping from foot to foot. The rain
pounds at his cabin window.
DANIEL MACKAY (V.O.)
(chirpy)
Darien is one of the most fruitful
spots of ground on the face of the
Earth. It will make the Scots
nation more considerable in the
balance of Europe than ever, and
you’ll have such a settlement in
the Indies in a few years as scarce
any European nation could brag of.
EXT. POINT LOOK OUT – DAY
Steady rains. Two ships: a Frenchman and a Dutchman (types of
ship) wait outside the bay. A longboat is making its way
towards the bay.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
The rain continues. The Dutchman, named the Maurepas,
approaches the St Andrew, French colours flying. Captain
Duvier Thomas boards the St Andrew bringing a certain panache
and a strong French accent.
PENNECUIK
Captain. To whom do I have the
pleasure of greeting?
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Captain Duvier Thomas of his
majesty King Louis service. May we
discuss some matter somewhere a
little drier Captain? I have
pressing news for your…
Thomas scans the shoreline.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS (CONT’D)
(questioningly)
colony?
PENNECUIK
Certainly. Follow me.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DAY
Pennecuik is behind his desk. Thomas is sat on a chair with
two of his seamen either side of him. Thomas is flamboyant.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
So, Captain Pennecuik, you see the
Spanish are preparing to mount an
attack on any European shipping
they come across. Already two
English ships have been detained by
the Spanish. We are seeking a safe
and friendly harbour.
PENNECUIK
Well, I shall have to discuss this
matter with the council but I
suspect that won’t be a problem. A
formality shall we say. Your news
is quite unsettling for all in
these parts, I imagine.
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN – DAY
Rain continues. The five ships manoeuvre into a line across
the bay. The Maurepas and the Dutchman sail into the bay.
INT. THE CALEDONIA DECK – DAY
Robert and Thomas Drummond observes the Maurepas. It lies low
in the water.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Dear brother, I see our prize.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
She is fat, isn’t she.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – NIGHT
A hearty dinner is laid out and much rum and wine is passed
around the table. Captain Thomas is in good humour and talks
enthusiastically about his knowledge regarding the Spanish.
In attendance: Pennecuik; Pincarton; Paterson and Cunningham.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
The Barliavento Spanish Fleet is
being fitted out in Cartagena.
Rumour has it that it will head to
Portobello. As soon as we are
certain of that we shall slip out
of your gentle harbour and bother
you no more.
PINCARTON
More wine Captain?
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Yes. Thank you. Your Scottish
reputation is wholly unjustified.
Thomas inspects the contents of the glass, give it a deep
sniff, takes a sip, washes it around his mouth and swallows.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS (CONT’D)
Hmm. The President of Panama
appears to have wildly over
estimating the number of Scots that
have settled here. They believe you
are a bridgehead in order to
develop an attack on its ports
within the Gulf of Mexico.
PENNECUIK
We shall have to double our efforts
on the fort Cunningham Ð just in
case.
PINCARTON
Captain, I couldn’t fail to notice
your ship, the Maurepas, is
carrying a heavy load indeed. It
lies low in these waters. Have you
by chance been lightening the loads
of other Spanish ships in the area
that would otherwise have been
hauling gold back to that ailing
Spanish King?
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Captain, I appreciate your
directness. All I can possibly say
is that we have a variety of goods
on board. All are now the
possession of King Louis within
whose favour I shall intend to
always keep.
PENNECUIK
And none of our business Captain
Thomas. I’m surprised at you
Pincarton.
Pincarton shrugs and reaches for his wine.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
I do have one favour though. When
you do depart would you be so kind
as to take some dispatches with you
to your next port?
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
With pleasure Commander.
PENNECUIK
Also, my surgeon has been pestering
me for weeks now and is determined
to see himself out of this place.
Would you be so kind as to provide
him with safe passage to some
nearby port? He has a few things
and a couple of others in his
attendance. He’s no fuss at all. A
rather affable chap.
Pincarton splutters his wine in astonishment. Paterson
lightly, with a smirk, taps Pincarton on the back as he
recovers.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Certainly, Commander. That won’t be
a problem. May I ask: how are your
defences coming along?
PENNECUIK
Well, since I relocated the
position of the fort things have
moved along a lot quicker.
Cunningham is animated and throws his serviette to the table
but says nothing. Pennecuik ignores the silent outburst.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Excellent Commander. I can see you
are a man who understands both the
land and the sea.
EXT. THE MAUREPAS DECK – DAY
Walter Herries orders his subordinate to haul his belongings
onto the Maurepas.
WALTER HERRIES
Would you be careful with that, ya
fool. That’s all the liquor we’ve
got ’til we hit port. I’m not
staying in this infested swamp one
day longer than I have to.
EXT. FORTIFICATION OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
Men are nailing into place split trunks for the palisades.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
How much do you reckon?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
She’s lying so low, there’s almost
enough for us to share!
PRIVATE HENDERSON
I don’t share.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
That we can, at least, agree upon.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Do you reckon they raided a ship or
a port?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
When are you going to stop thinking
about gold?
PRIVATE HENDERSON
When my pockets are so full of it,
it weighs me to the ground and
buries my under it.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Poetic.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DUSK
Fully stuffed once again and Captain Thomas is very drunk. In
attendance: Pennecuik; Pincarton; Paterson and Cunningham. A
bottle slides across the table and is caught by Pincarton.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Messieurs!
Thomas stands to leave. Wobbles and falls back into his
chair.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS (CONT’D)
Encore une fois!
He concentrates and gets up this time.
PENNECUIK
We’ll have you safely on board your
ship very soon Thomas. Still got
your sea legs I hope.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Indeed I have Captain. Just a
little spiny!
He makes his way over towards the door. Pincarton get up and
helps him through it.
PINCARTON
I’ll see him to the transport boat.
Pincarton closes the door behind him.
PENNECUIK
The French do get dull when they’re
drunk. You were quiet this evening
Paterson.
(sympathetically)
Anything the matter?
PATERSON
No. Just tired. I think I’ll head
back to shore. I’ll be in my hut if
there’s nothing else?
PENNECUIK
Be careful on shore Paterson,
disease is strife out there. I
wouldn’t risk any of my men to that
swamp. Rest on the Unicorn for a
few days.
PATERSON
No, there’s a lot of work that I
need to ensure is done. Besides pox
or the wrath of my beloved wife – I
don’t know what I fear the most.
PENNECUIK
As you see fit.
Paterson gets up to leave.
EXT. THE MAUREPAS DECK – DUSK
Rain has stopped. Captain Thomas barks some orders in French
to his crew. They weigh anchor and the unfurl the top sail.
It immediately fills and the Maurepas lurches northwards
towards the line of ships.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DUSK
Paterson sees the Maurepas moving towards him.
PATERSON
Captain Pennecuik! Captain
Pincarton!
The officers from the cabin rush on board deck. Pincarton is
already on deck and rushes over to where Paterson is. Captain
Thomas is visible at the helm of his ship.
PENNECUIK
What, by God’s name, is that fool
doing?
The captain is singing in French. He steers the ship between
the St Andrew and the Unicorn. He gives himself a mighty
cheer as he passes the astonished captains of the Scottish
fleet.
CAPTAIN DUVIER THOMAS
Vive l’ƒcosse!
The Maurepas continues and heads to the mouth of the bay.
PINCARTON
He’s going straight for that hidden
rock that ripped off the skin of
the Unicorn.
PENNECUIK
He’s a mad man.
The ship is tossed about by the difficult currents at the
mouth of the bay. It lurches towards the rock. A loud
cracking sounds can be heard all the way to the deck of the
St Andrew.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Lieutenant! Four of your strongest
swimmers if you please? Looks like
we’re going to have to save this
lunatic before he kills the whole
crew.
PATERSON
Are you sure Commander?
PENNECUIK
This is what leadership is about
Paterson.
Pennecuik, his Lieutenant and four seamen climb down the
ropes on the side of the ship to an awaiting longboat. They
board. They row their way up to the Maurepas. Paterson, and
the others, are in a state of shock seeing Pennecuik in
action.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
What do you think he’s going to do?
PATERSON
Not sure he can do anything.
EXT. THE MAUREPAS DECK – DUSK
Two of the seamen in Pennecuik’s longboat grab onto the rope
ladder run off the side of the Maurepas. The longboat is
pulled against the ship and tethered. Pennecuik hauls himself
up the ladder with surprising ease onto the deck and up to
the helm.
PENNECUIK
(mutters)
Fool
Pennecuik punches Captain Thomas who falls to the floor.
Pennecuik wrestles with the helm. The other sailors from the
Unicorn are on board. French sailors are diving overboard.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Lieutenant! Drop anchor! Bow and
stern!
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
Drop anchors lads!
They release the anchors and steady the twisting ship in the
rough water. The rock is barely visible but white foam from
breaking waves can be seen.
Herries comes running onto deck.
WALTER HERRIES
In God’s name, what’s going on?
PENNECUIK
You have chosen a rather wayward
Captain Mr Herries.
(beat)
Thomas, we’ll need to pull the ship
safely away from the rocks.
Lieutenant, signal for some more
longboats from all the ships to get
over here.
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
Aye Captain.
WALTER HERRIES
I don’t like the look of this.
The ship lurches and is snapped back into position by the
anchors. The sailors are knocked off their feet while
Pennecuik holds onto the helm.
PENNECUIK
Keep her steady Lieutenant!
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
Trying Captain!
PENNECUIK
Always trying. Start achieving. Are
those longboats coming?
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
They’re coming Captain.
Herries scurries down below.
PENNECUIK
Right Thomas! I want to see you
take some order on this ship. You
are an embarrassment to the
profession.
Ship takes another violent jerk and both anchor lines snap.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Lieutenant!!
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
Nothing to be done Captain! We’re
heading for the rock again!
Herries scrambles back up with a chest and is accompanied by
his companion. French men running across the deck in panic
now.
FRENCH LIEUTENANT
Capitaine! Le bateau est perdu! Et
l’or aussi!
WALTER HERRIES
I knew there was gold on this ship
somewhere.
The ship uncontrolled is bashed against the rock again. This
time the hull splits and the ship begins to pitch.
PENNECUIK
Right, abandon ship!
Herries hesitates while in two minds about the gold but
scurries into the longboat along with his companions.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Untie yourselves before you’re
pulled down as well.
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
But Captain!
PENNECUIK
You haven’t disobeyed me before
Lieutenant. This is not the time to
start!
LIEUTENANT MCDONALD
Captain.
Lieutenant McDonald descends to his longboat.
Pennecuik grabs hold of Thomas and puts him over his
shoulder. He finds a raft and ties the captain to it. The
ship lists further. The captain heaves the raft over board.
Crew are diving overboard.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DUSK
The council and officers of the St Andrew look in awe at what
they are witnessing. Then, Pennecuik stands tall on the helm,
takes his jacket and shirt off. Takes his trousers off as
well.
PINCARTON
Unbelievable.
PATERSON
If I hadn’t see this with my own
eyes…
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
Finally, I may just have found some
respect for that sea dog.
As the deck gets in line with the water, Pennecuik dives into
the water.
PINCARTON
Unbelievable
Paterson looks to Pincarton then back to the sea.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
Can anyone see him?
The waves and dusk make it difficult to see much. Then, a
clear sight of an arm arcing through the water.
PATERSON
There he is. Stubborn as always!
(beat)
We’re not going to hear the last of
this.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – DUSK
Pennecuik emerges from the surf, dragging the raft with
Captain Thomas strapped to it. Officers and men from the
shore come to meet him and take the raft from him dragging it
higher onto the beach. Thomas choking severely.
PENNECUIK
Hang him by his angles until the
water has rung out of his lungs!
Pennecuik walks stark naked across the sand.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Any chance of a spare uniform?
EXT. FORT ANDREW – DAY
Landmen continue the work on the fort. Things are looking
more complete now but it is far from finished. Henderson and
McAllister lean on shovels staring out to the bay.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
60,000 gold and silver pieces of 8!
Would you believe it?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Those Drummonds have been trying to
dive for it.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
I’m sure we won’t see a penny of
it.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Neither will the Drummonds.
Pennecuik told them that anything
they find is his.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Once this damn fort is finished,
we’d better be heading to those
gold mines that the Tules have been
talking about.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
I wouldn’t count on getting a sniff
of that either.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
That’s why we’re here isn’t it?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
You haven’t been listening
carefully have you?
Henderson looks to McAllister quizzically for an explanation.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER (CONT’D)
Righteousness!
PRIVATE HENDERSON
What do you mean?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Everything the Company says is
about being upstanding and moral,
aye? Well, you lust for gold, don’t
you?
PRIVATE HENDERSON
As every man!
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Well, lust is a sin. Sinners don’t
get anything. It’s all in the
declarations. Did you read them
before coming on this little
soiree?
PRIVATE HENDERSON
No. But…
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
No buts. Simple. You will get a
plot of land that you can till to
your dying days but don’t think the
likes of Pennecuik will be handing
out gold to the likes or you or me.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
I think I need to stop thinking
about this.
(beat)
60,000 pieces of eight!
(beat)
Almost enough to share…
They laugh.
PRIVATE HENDERSON (CONT’D)
Anyway, what are you getting me for
Christmas?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Brains
INT. ST ANDREW – DAY
Christmas Day. The weather is fine. No work. Celebrations on
the St Andrew, Unicorn and Endeavour. Three ships tied
together. A lot of drinking can be seen above deck, below
deck. A feast for all. The Tule captains have been invited.
PATERSON (V.O.)
We had made it to Christmas. Too
many had died and command in the
settlement was irresponsibly
wielded by the sea captains. But we
had made it. And for one day
merriment was had throughout the
ranks and divisions that existed
between landmen and seamen. The
night took its toll though. The
Tules, unbeknown to us, were not on
good terms. A fight occurred but no
one could remember why. The
following hung-over morning the
Tules could not be found until
someone stumbled across the Captain
Andreas who was found in the hold
below the main hatchway. His head
was bloodied and he was badly
beaten. No one had the stomach or
inclination to take much care for
him. Eventually a boat came to pick
up his weak body.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – DAY
Pennecuik stands at the helm watching Richard Moon’s sloop
departing.
PATERSON (V.O.)
On more positive news Richard Moon
kept his promise and returned with
fresh provisions. He sailed away
with the constitution and Walter
Herries who had become
disillusioned with the colony.
EXT. SHORE OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
The vast majority of the men are on shore. Pennecuik reads
out from a scroll. Cunningham, Pincarton and Paterson stand
next to him.
PENNECUIK
…a full and free liberty of
conscience in the matter of
religion, so as the same be not
understood to allow, connive at, or
indulge the blaspheming of God’s
holy name…
INT. SHARED HUT – MOMENTS LATER
Ten beds are set out with men lying, some coughing, some in
fever. Mrs Paterson walks between them.
Pennecuik can be heard faintly from outside.
PATERSON (V.O.)
(solemnly)
All were witness to the birth of
the Scottish Empire.
EXT. SHORE OF NEW EDINBURGH – MOMENTS LATER
The faces of the landmen and the seamen gathered onshore are
pained. Some have poxy faces, others are weak and drained.
Their clothes are tattered.
PENNECUIK
And now, by virtue of the before
mentioned powers to us given, we do
here settle and in the name of God
establish ourselves, and in honour
and for the memory of that most
ancient and renowned name of our
Mother Country, we do, and will
from henceforward call this country
by the name of Caledonia, and
ourselves, successors and
associates, by the name
Caledonians!
The men on shore begin to drift off back to their work or
ships with no ceremony.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
A fleet of seven Spanish ships sail along the Spanish Main
towards the Bay of Darien.
END OF PART ONE
PART TWO
INT. PRIVATE PRISON IN AMSTERDAM – DAY
James Smyth sits with his hands in his head. His clothes are
tattered and his eyes red. A small window allows sunlight
through from the outside.
There is a heavy thud at the door.
JAILOR
Stand in the light!
Smyth slowly yet obediently stands up and underneath the
shaft of light from outside. His shape casts an ominous
silhouette. A pause as the jailor ensures Smyth is in the
right place then keys rattle into the lock. Cluck and door
opens inside. The jailor stands back from the door and
Gleneagles walks through.
GLENEAGLES
Smyth
JAMES SMYTH
(surprised)
Gleneagles
GLENEAGLES
Time for a chat
JAMES SMYTH
Of course
GLENEAGLES
Sit
Smyth makes his way back the bench. Sits and looks up to
Gleneagles at an awkward angle.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
It’s going to be a simple chat
James. I’m not one to mince my
words, I’m sure you know that.
(beat)
Where’s the money?
JAMES SMYTH
Gone.
GLENEAGLES
All of it?
JAMES SMYTH
Most of it. Some is back in Denmark
Street.
GLENEAGLES
No it’s not. I’ve had it searched.
JAMES SMYTH
Hidden.
GLENEAGLES
Where?
JAMES SMYTH
I can show you.
GLENEAGLES
That seems a little hopeful doesn’t
it? How much is hidden.
JAMES SMYTH
Maybe a thousand.
GLENEAGLES
And the other £16,000?
JAMES SMYTH
I promise I can get it back to you.
I have monies owed me that I can
cash in but only if I’m back in
London. I can do nothing here.
GLENEAGLES
And let you loose to hide it out in
London? Take me for a fool?
JAMES SMYTH
Never my laird.
GLENEAGLES
Where did you spend the other
sixteen thousand?
JAMES SMYTH
I had some short-term debts that
had unfortunately caught up with
me. And there was genuine expenses
to cover both in London and
Denmark.
GLENEAGLES
Of which there is much outstanding
still.
You are a liar, a cheat and a
fraud. Your name isn’t even Smyth,
it’s Smitten isn’t it.
Smyth looks aware awkwardly.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
You have debts in every major city
in Europe and should be strung up
for embezzlement.
JAMES SMYTH
(meekly)
I can help. I promise.
Gleneagles yells in frustration.
JAILOR
(Dutch accent)
Everything okay Sir?
GLENEAGLES
Fine. Thank you.
He sits down on the bench next to Smyth. He takes in a deep
breath and straightens his back.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
You will come to London and we will
have our money back.
He stands, walks to the door and knocks three times. Smyth
stands and resumes his position beneath the shaft of
sunlight.
GLENEAGLES (CONT’D)
Paterson was too trusting. Make up
for your failures now. Redeem
William.
JAMES SMYTH
I shall.
The door clangs with keys again and opens. Gleneagles looks
back to Smyth.
GLENEAGLES
(gruffly)
Hmm.
EXT. FORT EDINBURGH – DAY
A dry and hot day. Men are driving wooden palisades into the
ground.
They are exhausted and their skin is peeling, leaving it red
and sore. Supervising officers stroll around inspecting and
instructing.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
This may keep out a wild boar but
I’m not so convinced it’ll keep the
Spanish at bay.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
What would the Spanish want with
us?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
We’re in their territory – simple
as that.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
But we haven’t done anything to
upset them.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Not yet.
More palisades are raised. Men carrying large buckets of
water between two poles arrive. They upturn the bucket into a
large tank. When the bucket is empty they walk back the way
they came.
Nearby Henderson and McAllister a man collapses. Henderson
makes to run to the man – McAllister holds him back.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER (CONT’D)
Not so fast. Wait.
The man who fell rolls over and his face is puffed and red.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER (CONT’D)
Keep away from that one.
Henderson looks deeply into the pained face.
MRS PATERSON
Someone bring me a stretcher
please.
Two men rush over with a stretcher as instructed. They place
the stretcher down and lift the man onto it.
MRS PATERSON (CONT’D)
Thank you. To the medical tent if
you’d be so kind.
They lift up stretcher and walk off. Mrs Paterson follows
directly.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
They buried ten last week. I reckon
more this.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
There will be more food for us.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
And more work.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Stop gawping you two! I want to see
the whole east-side complete today.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
(mumbles)
Then lift a finger.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
What was that Corporal.
McAllister stands stiff to attention.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Nothing sir. Just sizing up the
work.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
(intense)
Don’t make me double it.
INT. PATERSON’S HUT – DAY
Paterson is at his desk writing. He places his quill down and
leans back. Mrs Paterson enters.
MRS PATERSON
William, they are dropping like
flies out there.
PATERSON
I know.
MRS PATERSON
Something has to be done. They need
more and better food.
PATERSON
They are on strict rations.
MRS PATERSON
Pennecuik isn’t. He’s feasting on
his ship while these men burn,
starve and die for their country.
PATERSON
My hands are tied by the council.
MRS PATERSON
And your conscience?
Paterson takes a deep breath.
PATERSON
(sincerely)
I’ll see what I can do.
MRS PATERSON
Thank you William.
She wraps her arms around him. A red rash can be seen on her
neck.
MRS PATERSON (CONT’D)
You’re the best.
EXT. DECK OF SAN MARIA – DAY
Don Juan Pimienta stands on deck looking out to the shoreline
where a company of men are disembarking. Pimienta has hair to
his shoulders and a large moustache. He is in military
uniform.
The shoreline is a mass of thick, green, lush vegetation and
trees. Men (a combination of black slaves and Spanish
soldiers) hold machetes in their hands; turn to the shrubs
and begin to hack their way through.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – NIGHT
Pennecuik sits behind his desk. Paterson and Thomas Drummond
are seated in front of him.
PENNECUIK
Pish-paff!
Pennecuik stands up and begins to walk around the room.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
If we increased their rations we’d
be out of food in a week. Besides,
their stomachs aren’t use to any
greater consumption than their
present allowance.
To increase that would probably do
them more harm than good.
PATERSON
The malnutrition is compounding the
issue of disease on the mainland.
The men don’t have the strength to
fight off the pox.
PENNECUIK
Then give them the strength. With a
strike of your boot Paterson. Don’t
let them get the better of you. And
I’m surprised at you Drummond –
coming in here begging for those
wretches.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Paterson has a point and I’m not
use to agreeing with him either.
PENNECUIK
Have you found any of my gold yet?
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
(affronted)
I’m not sure what you are driving
at Pennecuik.
PENNECUIK
Commander I shall remind you!
Drummond stands to leave.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
So you have found some.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
I’ll have no more of this
ridiculous farce. You’re a madman.
You’re obsessed. How many hours
have you spent onshore? How many
bodies have you seen tossed into
that pit? How much wine do you get
through in your regal cabin while
my men toil like slaves for your
precious Caledonia?
PENNECUIK
You’re out of order Drummond.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
What will you do when the Spanish
do attack?
You will hide here surrounded by
your ivory carvings and mahogany
furniture? It will be me and my men
at the front. You’ll be quivering
like a coward safely offshore.
PENNECUIK
That’s enough. Guards!
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Don’t bother. I’m out of here.
PENNECUIK
Oh no. I shan’t risk this sort of
militant behaviour from one of my
officers. Guards!
The door opens and four armed guards rush through. They are
armed with muskets and swords.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
Place Captain Drummond under
arrest. Hold him in the new jail
house until he learns some respect.
They move to restrain Drummond but he throws them a stern
glare.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
We’re not finished.
PENNECUIK
No, but you are.
Drummond turns and is escorted out of the cabin.
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
The company of Spanish soldiers hack their way through thick
undergrowth. DON MELCHOR DE GUEVARA walks a few paces behind
the soldiers hacking away.
DON MELCHOR OF GUEVARA
Cambia!
The men who were hacking at the undergrowth stop and with a
clear sigh of relief are replaced by other men who were
behind Don Melchor who, in turn, begin to hack away.
DON MELCHOR OF GUEVARA (CONT’D)
Mas fuerte. No tenemos todo el dia.
INT. PATERSON’S HUT – DAY
Paterson and Pincarton sit in two wicker chairs and are
drinking the madeira wine.
PINCARTON
It’s all getting out of hand.
PATERSON
Indeed. I know the Drummonds are a
nuisance but they could be handy.
PINCARTON
They certainly have the loyalty of
their men.
PATERSON
And that is more that our Commander
has at the moment.
PINCARTON
Well, I’ll be glad to be out of
here for a while to be honest.
PATERSON
Still set for Cartagena?
PINCARTON
Yeah. We should be able to sell
something there. Our supplies are
bottoming out again.
PATERSON
Still – there’s plenty of madeira
wine left!
Paterson refreshes the glasses.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
To a safe and successful trip.
PINCARTON
Your health!
EXT. NEW EDINBURGH JAIL HOUSE – DAY
Thomas Drummond sits on a basic bench within a small bare
jail. The ground beneath his feet is sodden and his uniform
is dirty, loosing it sharpness. He reclines in the corner
with one leg on the bench.
The rattling of keys in a lock can be heard. The jail house
door opens and Robert Drummond steps through.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
Father would have Pennecuik hanged
for this.
The jailor closes Robert Drummond inside and locks the door.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Pity father isn’t here.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
There’s nothing I can do. I’m
sorry. There’s a lot of support but
I need control of the fort.
Thomas Drummond gets up and walks to the bars of the jail.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
I’ve never paid for my sins.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
Brother…
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
No, it’s true. I haven’t. I’m not
sure I should but then I guess it
wouldn’t be a sin…
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
That was many years ago.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
I was instrumental in Glencoe.
There was very little instruction.
I took decisions there that will
haunt our family name for
generations to come.
(signs)
But I don’t regret it. Look around
you. This company of dysfunctional
Scottish merchants; laird’s sons;
savages and task-less women. They
live in hatred of each other and
are only ever united when opposed
to the English.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
Or Catholics.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
True.
(beat)
We have to leave.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
I know. Likely there will be relief
ships soon and we can be on our
way. Pennecuik will look like a
fool in Edinburgh and we can get
back to our rightful lives.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
No, I mean we need to leave
Scotland.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
We’re not in Scotland dear bother.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
You know what I mean.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
Do I?
Thomas Drummond looks Robert Drummond intensely in the eyes.
Robert reels.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND (CONT’D)
Oh no…
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN – DAY
A longboat makes its way to the jetty at the port of
Edinburgh. A rather proud and flamboyant Alexander Campbell
of Fonab stands at the helm of the boat. The boat draws to
the jetty and he lightly steps onto it and surveys New
Edinburgh.
The town has a series of huts scattered along the coastline
for the manual labourers. Other huts are slightly larger and
built more sturdily. Then, there is the fort. Now, looking
like a good, strong wooden fort with palisades, wrought iron
gates and cannons protruding from holes placed periodically
along the ramparts.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
I like it!
He strides to the end of the jetty and steps onto Caledonia
soil for the first time. His boot sinks a couple of inches
into the sodden ground and he pulls a perplexed face.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Hmm.
(smiling)
Fertile.
Paterson steps out of one of the larger huts and see the
impressive figure striding across the beach: cutlass and
musket flapping but his hips.
PATERSON
(to himself)
Alexander Campbell?
Paterson looks surprised and then smiles. Relief washes over
his face. Campbell is headed for the fort, Paterson strides
forward to intercept him.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Colonel! Colonel Campbell.
Alexander Campbell stops in his tracks, turns to the voice of
Paterson and quizzically looks at the man who shouted –
puzzled.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Ah! Paterson! My apologies, you’re
hardly recognisable in this
paradise!
He takes a few steps towards Paterson as Paterson reaches
him.
PATERSON
It all takes it’s toll after a
while. I’m not sure we’ll ever
civilise paradise…
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Have faith.
PATERSON
I keep as much of it as close as I
can at all times.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Where’s Pennecuik?
PATERSON
On the St Andrew. Did you not pay
your respects?
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
No! My blunder. I assumed he’s be
lording it in his castle.
PATERSON
Ah.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Trouble?
PATERSON
We have mitigating circumstances.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
You sound like a politician now.
What happened to the visionary we
have all been following?
PATERSON
Well…
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DAY
Pennecuik is reclining in his captain’s chair drinking a
glass of Madeira wine. His lieutenant stands opposite him.
PENNECUIK
What the hell!
He slams the glass down.
INT. PATERSON’S HUT – DAY
Paterson and Alexander Campbell are sat on two wicker chairs
each with a glass of wine. The decanted bottle sits between
them. There is a third empty wicker chair.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
I see…
A commotion can be heard from outside. Paterson and Campbell
wait. Pennecuik bursts through the thick tapestry that acts
as a door to Paterson’s hut furious.
PENNECUIK
Colonel! I believe you should have
visited me first at my cabin as
Company protocol dictates.
Campbell stands. He is clearly well over six feet tall and a
formidable presence. His hands rests comfortably on his
cutlass and his gait shows no lack of confidence.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
(coldly)
You should be in your fort.
PENNECUIK
(stuttering)
The accommodation doesn’t suit my
tastes Colonel I’m afraid.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
That horrific. Who is the culprit?
PENNECUIK
Err. Just a rogue that needs to be
taught to respect authority.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
(lightly)
Ah, my friend Thomas Drummond!
Pennecuik looks shocked.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Pull up a seat. Tell me what my
rogue has been up to.
Alexander Campbell tugs at the available wicker chair.
Pennecuik remains startled.
INT. NEW EDINBURGH JAIL HOUSE – DAY
Alexander Campbell stands hands on hips staring straight at
Thomas Drummond behind bars. Campbell is laughing heartily.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
You are always messing up my
friend!
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
(resigned)
Just get me out of here…sir.
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
The Spanish trudge their way up a steep hill. The men are
exhausted. The hacking is less ferocious and exaggerated
efforts are made periodically to get through stubborn
undergrowth. Sweat drips intensely from their foreheads. One
man slips down about ten feet before stopping himself and
regaining his footing.
DON MELCHOR OF GUEVARA
Arriba!
From a safe distance the small unnoticed figure of Captain
Pedro, the Tule leader, sits and observes. He is camouflaged
by the jungle and makes no movement. He is not visible to the
Spanish but he observes them.
INT. ROBERT DRUMMOND’S CABIN – NIGHT
Captains Thomas and Robert Drummond sit in silence opposite
each other. Two full wine glasses sit in-front of them but
they do not drink.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
(hesitating)
But after all we have worked for.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
We’ve worked for…
(beat)
…nothing.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
When we have these crazy ideas…
(stammers)
…I.I.I just remember our parents
and what they would think.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
At some point we need to break from
that. Break from everything. Take a
chance. Nobody ever asks. Anyone
who asks is denied. Seek
forgiveness not permission.
Robert Drummond places his head in his hands. He pauses. He
tilts slightly and then begins to laugh.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
You are poisonously addictive – my
_dear_ brother!
They both laugh and crash wine glasses together.
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN – DAY
A Tule boat approaches the St Andrew. Within it is Captain
Pedro the Tule leader. He stands proud at the helm of his
boat.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DAY
Pennecuik sits behind his desk and turns to the Tule leader
Captain Pedro.
PENNECUIK
How many?
EXT. SHORE OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
Troops run up the beach to form lines. They are armed with
muskets and cutlasses. A drummer stands in the souring heat
beating an attacking march to muster the troops. His beat
loses time a couple of times and as he tries to regain
composure.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Hear me!
The company of soldiers stand erect and proud in front of
their commander. The drummer stops.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
You have finished your ditches; you
have finished your fort. One thing
left – those abhorrent Catholics!
They’re heading this way to wage
war against a fair and just
settlement. A settlement for
people, for real people. For people
who simply want a better life.
Campbell walks along his line of men: ten wide and five deep.
They are tired and dirty but retain their military discipline
in front of Campbell.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
But most of all, today, be with
your brothers. Those stood beside
you. Those that you have trained
and believed in throughout
everything. They are your blood on
this day. They are your victory!
A cheer comes up from the soldiers. They turn and march along
the beach.
Alexander Campbell approaches Paterson.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Where’s Drummond?
PATERSON
Reports from the Caledonian say
that Thomas Drummond is still
recovering from his ordeal.
Paterson turns to the Bay of Darien.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
The Unicorn steadily makes its way through the sea it’s sails
full as it approaches a large imposing fortress citadel of
Cartagena. Near the city the waves crash over rocks. The
cliffs are steep and the navigable passage narrow.
EXT. THE UNICORN DECK – DAY
Pincarton observes the great Spanish city.
PINCARTON
(smiling broadly)
Keep it friendly boys!
They round the head and find an inviting harbour. A
congregation of men are awaiting them. The harbour has half a
dozen other vessels of various sizes docked. Non are as large
as the Unicorn.
The Unicorn draws near, men jump off the ship and secure the
ropes. Captain Pincarton descends and is greeted by a local
official: Don Juan Pimienta.
DON JUAN PIMIENTA
Buenos dias mis escociases!
(sub-titled)
Welcome my Scottish friends.
PINCARTON
(apologetically)
Perdon se–or. Mi espa–ol…
(sub-titled)
Excuse my Spanish Sir…
DON JUAN PIMIENTA
(smiling)
No te preocupes. Tienes tiempo.
(sub-titled)
No worries. You have time.
INT. CELL IN CARTAGENA – DAY
Bars close onto Pincarton and his crew. Pincarton stares back
out of the bars while his dejected crew muddle around.
Pincarton is infuriated.
PINCARTON
Quiero hablar con el ambasador!
(sub-titled)
I want to speak to the Ambassador
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
The Spanish have set up camp. Several fires are going and
food being cooked in large pots. The main bulk of the
soldiers sit in dispersed groups, jackets open due to the
heat and heads low through exhaustion.
Don Melchor has a tent erected flying the Spanish flag.
INT. DON MELCHOR TENT – DAY
Melchor sits cross-legged with his captain: Fernandez.
DON MELCHOR OF GUEVARA
Es imposible.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ
El dios gusta el imposible.
(sub-titled)
God loves the impossible.
DON MELCHOR OF GUEVARA
Mitad de los hombres tienen fiebra.
Y los otros estan discontentado.
Quantos negros salido hoy?
(sub-titled)
Half the men have fever and the
other are on the brink of
desertion. How many of the slaves
deserted today?
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ
Doce
(sub-titled)
Twelve
Melchor picks the mud from his boots with a short stick.
DON MELCHOR OF GUEVARA
Hemos hecho una venganza?
(sub-titled)
Has there been a retribution?
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ
Non
(sub-titled)
No
Melchor stops picking at his boot and looks to Fernandez
directly.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ (CONT’D)
Entiendo.
(sub-titled)
I understand.
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
Hysterical shouting can be heard from the black slaves. The
Spanish soldiers are holding muskets up to them. Fernandez
stands with a musket in his hand that is smoking.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ
Silencio!
They calm to an agitated silence. A black slave lies dead on
the ground with a gunshot wound to the head, blood streaming
into the ground.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ (CONT’D)
Todo el mondo intendir que pasa
cuando pena’s demasiado mucho?
(sub-titled)
Does everyone understand what
happens when you think too much?
Anxious nods are the response from the slaves.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ (CONT’D)
Vale. Vamanos.
The soldiers put their arms to their side and the black
slaves scurry to their packs and prepare to march.
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
Alexander Campbell stands atop a hill looking out across the
Darien Jungle. Movement of vegetation can be seen down the
hill. He eyes the territory with a steely eye. Behind him his
men wait in silence, patiently awaiting his next command.
He kneels and signals for all to kneel with his hand, still
retaining his gaze on the opposition.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
(to himself)
We have the advantage.
EXT. DECK OF CALEDONIAN – DAY
Thomas and Robert Drummond stand at the helm. They look to
each other and nod.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Crew ready?
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
More than ever.
Robert Drummond turns to his crew.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND (CONT’D)
Make sail. We’re headed out of this
swamp. Anyone interested in gold?
The crew cheer and set to their places on deck. Sail are
raised.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Our future is in our hands now
brother.
The Caledonian flag is lowered from the mast.
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
Poised at the top of the hill Alexander Campbell draws his
sword. His men ready themselves.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
(war-cry)
For Caledonia!!
The men, led by Alexander Campbell, charge down the hill.
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
WALTER HERRIES
(mockingly)
For Caledonia!
He laughs uncontrollably. Regaining his composure he clears
his throat.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
(feigning sincerity)
The greatest military victory of
the Scottish Empire!
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
The sounds of screaming men can be heard from the Spanish
camp. The black slaves immediately flee off into the jungle.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ
Corbardes!
He turns to face up the hill.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ (CONT’D)
Sin miedo!
Around him some soldiers are rapidly stuffing their muskets
with powder. Others are ready, muskets raised. Fernandez
draws his sword.
The Scottish approach striding fast down the hill. A Young
Spanish Soldier with his musket raised can be seen shaking
visibly.
CAPIT‡N FERNANDEZ (CONT’D)
Dispara!
A series of unsynchronised shots are released. The Spanish
soldier previously shaking closes his eyes and fires blindly.
A volley of shots are returned by the Scottish and several
Spanish fall. The Young Spanish Soldier swaggers back and
forth slowly, noise around him becomes a mixture of cries and
gunshots. He drops his musket and places both hands to his
stomach. Blood oozes through his fingers.
EXT. SHORE OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
Mrs Paterson watches a body being carried across the beach
from outside the Paterson’s Hut. Suddenly she keels over in
pain, holding her stomach. She stops herself from dropping to
her knees. She grabs hold of the curtain that makes for a
door to the hut and pulls herself inside.
EXT. DARIEN JUNGLE – DAY
Alexander Campbell stands tall in the centre of the Spanish
camp. He holds his sword in his hand still and surveys the
spoils of victory. He wipes the blood on his sword off on the
tunic of a Spanish soldier. He looks to his men. Some wounded
but many just stripping the corpses of their valuables.
He places his hand over his left side and winces. As he
removes his hand a welling of blood fills his white shirt. He
regains composure as a fight breaks out between two of the
scavenging men.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Men!
They stop their thieving momentarily.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
That is the taste of victory.
Savour. There will be many more to
come.
The men respectfully wait a couple of seconds before rushing
back to the stripping of the corpses. The fight has been
forgotten.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – EVENING
The men and women of Caledonia are revelling. A large bonfire
burns ferociously on the beach and people are dancing and
drinking around it. A cannon fires out from the fort to the
bay in celebration. The recoil from the canon knocks a
soldier off his feet and down to the lower area of the
fortification. He groans, his comrades swigging from bottles
laugh hysterically.
INT. PATERSON’S HUT – NIGHT
The council convene. Paterson, Pennecuik, Cunningham,
Alexander Campbell of Fonab. All hold wine glasses and are
wearing wide grins.
PENNECUIK
Tonight gentlemen…has been a
great victory for the Scottish
nation. It cements our status here
as an established colony. The
Spanish will fear us; the English
will envy us and our good King
William will reward us when we
bring him his spoils – Darien,
Caledonia and New Edinburgh. Shame
will be brought upon those whose
faith failed them.
Pennecuik sits back down heavily.
PENNECUIK (CONT’D)
(aside to Paterson)
I shall ensure those Drummonds are
hung for this mutiny, no matter who
holds them in favour.
EXT. DECK OF CALEDONIAN – DAY
Thomas and Robert Drummond stand at the helm. Their faces are
parched from the sun more than before. They observe in
silence the approaching scooner. It’s crew are in panic. The
crew of the Caledonian are armed with muskets and cutlasses.
The Caledonian crashes into the side of the scooner and the
crew throw grappling hooks across and pull the vessels closer
together.
The boats are anchored together and men drop ladders from the
Caledonian. Other fire their muskets. The crew of the scooner
fall and lie lifeless.
The Caledonian crew rip across the scooner opening up storage
and breaking through doors. Shots continue to be fired
periodically.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
(melancholily)
Well, I guess that’s it.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
It’s a lot easier than digging
ditches.
EXT. ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH – NIGHT
A huge bonfire is ablaze along the royal mile and people are
celebrating with drinking and dancing. Songs to Caledonia and
Darien are sung; people link arms and ceilidh around the
fires. A lot of drinking is going on.
A man staggers up the street. He is dressed as a merchant.
Two other men come towards him carrying jugs of ale.
DRUNK MAN 1
Hey, why’s this guy not drinking?
DRUNK MAN 2
Because he doesn’t believe in
Caledonia!
MERCHANT
Kind gentlemen – you couldn’t be
more wrong. I am exhausted from the
revelry. I couldn’t touch another
drop.
DRUNK MAN 1
He’s says we are lying.
DRUNK MAN 2
Drink this!
MERCHANT
No, seriously I couldn’t.
DRUNK MAN 1
(insistent)
For Caledonia.
MERCHANT
I couldn’t.
DRUNK MAN 2
You mean you won’t – are you
English?
MERCHANT
(insistent)
No! Of course not.
DRUNK MAN 2
Then drink.
DRUNK MAN 1
Here.
The drunk man hands him a jug and the Merchant accepts it
reluctantly. He brings it to his lips.
DRUNK MAN 2
All of it.
He tips the jug back and ale pours down his throat and the
sides of his cheeks. He empties the jug and lowers it looking
at the two drunks in despair and frustration.
DRUNK MAN 1
(elated)
He is Scottish!
The drunks cackle and stagger passed the Merchant. He in turn
take a couple of steps, falls to his knees and throws up.
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN – NIGHT
Bonfire burns brightly from the beach.
INT. BELOW DECKS ON THE DOLPHIN – NIGHT
Three sailors are on the lower deck carrying empty kegs and
lanterns. They make their way to the store room, where the
first unlocks the door. All three walk inside. Barrels are
stacked high. Straw is strewn across the floor. Bales sit
beneath the barrels. Sailor 1 and Sailor 2 sit while Sailor 3
begins to fill up the kegs.
SAILOR 1
I think we should treat ourselves
to a dram or two of this rum before
we head back.
SAILOR 2
I second that. If we can’t
celebrate now when can we?
Sailor 1 picks up a mug that is sat next to the barrel and
fills it from another cask. He take a gulp and passes it to
Sailor 3. Sailor 2 takes out a cigar (a stub), lights it and
takes a deep drag.
SAILOR 2 (CONT’D)
Ah! Beautiful.
(beat)
My cousin got married before we
came out here.
SAILOR 1
Oh aye?
SAILOR 2
He’s a real traditional highlander:
kilt and everything.
SAILOR 3
What was the tartan?
SAILOR 2
Oh, she was in some shabby dress
her mother gave her!
They roll about laughing hysterically.
SAILOR 1
Hold on, hold on. How many literate
bishops are there in the Catholic
Church?
SAILOR 2
No idea.
SAILOR 1
Just Juan!
Fits of laughter again.
SAILOR 3
Oh, come on let’s go before they
all get grumpy.
All get up to leave. Sailor 3 half-heartedly stubs out the
remainder of his cigar. It falls to the floor, still alight.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – NIGHT
Drunkenness continues on the beach and the men dance around
the bonfire. Paterson watches from the shoreline out to the
bay. A red hue emits from the Dolphin.
PATERSON
Commander!
He rushes back through drunken men trying to make his way to
the council tent. He reaches the door but suddenly there is a
massive explosion from the bay. He turns back to see debris
falling to the water and a fire ripping across the deck of
the Dolphin.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – MORNING
The burnt out wreck of the Dolphin lies with its fore rising
from the sea.
The beach is scattered with men who have fallen asleep where
they fell. Paterson walks along surveying the debris and
makes his way to his hut.
INT. PATERSON’S HUT – DAY
He goes to his bedroom quarters where his wife is lying with
her back to him.
PATERSON
They just don’t seem to have any
self-control.
Mrs Paterson coughs a couple of times. Paterson pauses.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Are you okay?
There is no response from Mrs Paterson.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Mrs Paterson – I said – are you
okay lass?
He rolls her over towards him, blood is left on the sheets
from where her mouth has been and she is sweating profusely.
MRS PATERSON
William.
INT. ALEXANDER CAMPBELL’S HUT – DAY
Alexander Campbell is dressing. A large bandage is wrapped
around his waist. He winces as he puts his arms through his
shirt sleeve. His aide is stood observing him concerned.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Don’t fret Oswald.
ROGER OSWALD
Of course not Sir. Thank you for
giving me this opportunity.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
You may regret your youthful
enthusiasm.
ROGER OSWALD
Just trying to make my father
proud.
Alexander Campbell buttons up his shirt.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
They will be very proud of what you
have been a part of. But stay too
close to me and you could wind up
dead. Any normal parents wouldn’t
thank you for that.
Roger Oswald looks doubtful. He wakes himself from his
momentary daydream.
ROGER OSWALD
The Council are ready for you Sir.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
(feigning fear)
Am I ready for them? That’s the
question.
Campbell affectionately ruffs up Roger Oswald’s hair.
INT. PENNECUIK’S CABIN – DAY
The Council convene to celebrate the victory at Toubacanti.
In attendance are Pennecuik, Robert Jolly, Montgomerie and
Alexander Campbell.
PENNECUIK
Colonel, congratulations on a
splendid victory.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Victory? That was simply a
skirmish. A Spanish advance party.
I fear your celebrations last night
were premature. They will want
vengeance.
PENNECUIK
Then we shall be prepared for them!
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Unlikely. They can attack from
several sides. We don’t have enough
men to cover all areas.
PENNECUIK
Have faith Colonel. Should the
Spanish be foolish again, the fort
shall hold.
EXT. OPEN SEA – DAY
Three Spanish men-of-war pass Golden Island.
EXT. DECK OF SAN MARIA – DAY
Don Juan Pimienta checks the wind and observes the entrance
to the Bay of Darien. The deck is crowded with Spanish
soldiers. He nods to his Lieutenant who barks orders to the
men. They clamber over the side of the ship and descend the
ropes to two large transport boats.
INT. PATERSON’S HUT – DAY
Paterson dabs the head of his wife with a damp cloth. She
continues to sweat intensely.
MRS PATERSON
Too much idle time. God is
punishing me for having no labour
to bring to this world.
PATERSON
I fear you have been overworked
here on the shore and I should have
taken greater care of you. You
should have stayed on one of the
ships.
MRS PATERSON
There’s much work to be done here
still.
He places his finger to her lips silencing here. She smiles
weakly. Mrs Paterson wriggle uncomfortably. Paterson soothes.
PATERSON (V.O.)
My beloved wife did not improve in
condition. She struggled. She
fought. I knew she would. She was
simply the best in me. She had
calmed me when others frustrated
me.
She had loved me when I thought a
selfish man like myself was
unlovable. And she worshipped me,
which gave me such strength to
reach beyond the horizon.
(beat)
But all this self-indulging
behaviour had led me to this point
where she, my love, was slipping
away. I realised what I was about
to miss. And then…
(beat)
I was frightened. I would be alone.
How selfish of me once again.
EXT. DARIEN WOODS – DAY
Paterson stands over the grave of his wife. The Council and
officers are in attendance along with a good few men from the
colony. A minister reads out prayers. Cannon shots are fired
in honour of Mrs Paterson from the fort.
PATERSON (V.O.)
I accepted God’s choice. But I
loathed it. From that day forward I
found waking up that much more
difficult. I found conversation all
the more tedious. I found the taste
of meals all the less appealing. I
missed her.
(beat)
May God take her soul into his
embrace. For I long for the day
when I will hear her laugh again.
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
Paterson sits silently – whiskey glass in hand. Herries is
looking at him from around his chair, lowers his eyes in a
moment of respect and recedes back into his chair without a
sound.
EXT. POINT LOOK OUT – DAY
A soldier at Point Look Out shelters from the wind with his
back against the wooden tower. He is at the top level of the
observation point but cannot see out to see due to his
position.
LOOK OUT SOLDIER 2
What the hell! Douglas get your
eyes open.
Douglas stands from his high observation point and looks out
to see.
DOUGLAS
Oh my god!
He begins to rattle a large bell in the centre of the
observation tower furiously.
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN (CARIBBEAN COAST) – DAY
Six large transport boats filled with Spanish soldiers crash
through the surf. Soldiers leap out and haul the boats to the
shore.
CAPITçN RODRIGUEZ
Segura los barcos!
A distant bell can be heard.
The boats are dragged further up the beach. Muskets and
rifles are unloaded and handed throughout the men. Rifles are
secured to the backs of the leading men. They draw their
cutlasses.
The supporting men ready their rifles. Capit‡n Rodriguez
cooly examines his musket.
CAPITçN RODRIGUEZ (CONT’D)
Adelante!
They advance, hacking their way through the vegetation.
EXT. FORT EDINBURGH – DAY
Men rush around. Some headed for the fort. Alexander Campbell
makes his way across the beach, closely accompanied by Roger
Oswald.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Not that way! We fall back to the
fort only if absolutely necessary.
The men rally to him.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Second company to remain on the
beach this side of the ditch. First
and Third companies to me. Let’s
send these Catholics back to whence
they came.
He heads off at pace to the woods along the shoreline of New
Edinburgh. His men follow.
EXT. DARIEN WOODS – DAY
Four columns of Scottish soldiers march through the woods.
They reach a ditch. It is six feet deep and fifteen feet
wide. They climb and slip down, march across and assist each
other to clamber out the other side.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
(sarcastically)
Well, this has turned out to be a
pleasant day out.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Do you think we’ll win again?
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Our luck can only last so long
against the wrath of the Spanish
Empire.
McAllister stops hearing something.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER (CONT’D)
(quietly)
It appears our Campbell has stuck
his oar into a wasps nest.
Suddenly a shot thunders passed and strikes a soldier in the
throat.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Down!
The struck soldier grabs his throat and collapses. Indistinct
Spanish shouts can be heard in the distance. Suddenly a
volley of shots fire through the woods, taking chips off the
bark of trees. The Scots remain low.
ROGER OSWALD
(whispering to Alexander
Campbell)
Sir, I think we’re pinned down.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
I think I can tell that Oswald.
Campbell surveys the area while crouched. He puts his hand to
his side and winces.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Sergeant – that hillock over there.
We need that ground. Take ten men
and secure it.
The Sergeant nods and signals to some of the other men. They
scurry off away from the main group.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Give me your rifle Oswald.
Oswald passes his rifle. Campbell raises it to eye level
rested against a trunk of a tree. He observes the woodland
ahead.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
(to Private Henderson)
Here comes the big shot!
A twinkle of sunlight dances off something metallic from
where the shots came. Campbell fires and a yelp goes out from
a distance followed by a breakage of foliage.
Campbell sits down behind a tree and winces, resisting places
his hand to the pain.
Suddenly a volley of shots rings out from the hillock.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Very good.
He squats to observe the hillock only to see a skirmish ensue
as soldiers slash at each other. The Scots reel back. Two
break away to try and make it back to the main group. Both
are shot in the back by musket fire and fall face-forward to
the wood floor.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Damn.
The Scots are becoming agitated and some stand up unsure
whether to fight or flee. Another volley fly through the
woods from the Spanish and several Scots are cut down. The
others hunker down even lower.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Evens to me! Four deep. Threes
defend the flank from the hill.
Alexander Campbell steps forward through the undergrowth and
men stagger in formation behind him. Oswald follows closely
behind Campbell.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Set!
He kneels and the first of the four rows take aim in front of
them.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL (CONT’D)
Fire!
They fire through the woods and some yelps can be heard from
the Spanish line.
EXT. DECK OF SAN MARIA – DAY
Don Juan Pimienta observes the headland from the helm. He can
see the look out and the opening to the bay.
DON JUAN PIMIENTA
No es possible. Demasiado
peligroso.
(sub-titled)
It’s not possible. Too dangerous.
He turns to his lieutenant.
DON JUAN PIMIENTA (CONT’D)
El otro lado.
(sub-titled)
The other side.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
Paterson makes his way to Fort Andrew and enters its gates.
Men rush around carrying cannon balls and boxes to the upper
levels of the fort via the stairways. Other men are taking
large buckets of water. They upturn these to the large tank
in the centre of the fort.
Pennecuik bursts out of one of the doors to an inner
building.
PENNECUIK
Ah, there you are Paterson. I’ll
leave you in charge here – from the
Company perspective of course.
PATERSON
Where will you be Commander?
PENNECUIK
Where a captain should be. With his
ship.
Pennecuik strides passed and through the main gates of the
fort. Paterson watches in astonishment.
EXT. DARIEN WOODS – DAY
Capit‡n Rodriguez signals his men to divide by parting his
palms. They quietly separate as the well-drilled fighters
they are.
Alexander Campbell makes his way forward, his troops by his
side. The trees appear thinner ahead and he signals to the
troops to halt.
Silence.
Then shots ring out around them from two directions. The
Scots are cut down.
From the perspective of those ‘odds’ that Campbell had left
behind a series of shots can be heard. They wince. A series
of sporadic shots continues but it is impossible to tell what
is happening.
Smoke can be seen in the distance. Corporal McAllister
squints to make out shapes. Through the smoke bounds Oswald
who is pulling at Campbell who is staggering behind him.
ROGER OSWALD
Retreat!
EXT. DITCH AT DARIEN – DAY
The Scots collapse into the large ditch they had previously
clambered through. Campbell is clutching his side where blood
is visible. Oswald doggedly pulls him through the ditch and
up the other side.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
The Scots break from the woods onto the beach shouting
incoherently and running fast.
EXT. FORT EDINBURGH – DAY
Paterson observes from the fort as the Scots retreat. Major
Cunningham strides along the upper level of the fort.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
Wait for my command!
The soldiers manning the cannons crack open the boxes to
reveal gunpowder. Simultaneously cannonballs are stacked in
preparation. Men continue to run back from the Darien Woods,
across the Beach of New Edinburgh, passed the huts of New
Edinburgh to Fort Edinburgh.
The Scots clear the woods and are shortly followed by a
series of flashes of sunlight against metal.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM (CONT’D)
Second battery – fire!
Four cannons fire across New Edinburgh. Some of the shots
reach the wood, others fall short bringing up large plumes of
sand and foliage.
The Spanish soldiers retreat back into the woods.
EXT. DECK OF SAN MARIA – DAY
Don Juan Pimienta stands on deck looking to the strip of land
that the Scots have inhabited. He can make out the look-out
high on the hill and the fort since at its highest it peeks
above the height of many of the trees.
He nods to his lieutenant.
SPANISH LIEUTENANT
Corbardes!
(sub-titled)
Fire!
A series of cannon shots are fired from the starboard of the
ship one immediately after another. The shots whistle through
the tree-tops and shatter through the wooden palisades.
Shouts of panic raise from the Scots.
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
Walter Herries is standing in front of a large portrait of
King William. He holds a glass of red in his hand and admires
the portrait.
WALTER HERRIES
Remind me again? Darien? In the
heart of the Spanish Empire…just
never range true with me.
PATERSON
We were peaceful.
WALTER HERRIES
You went against our dear King
William, William.
He turns and strides towards Paterson who is still sat in
chair. Paterson avoids eye contact.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
Did you really think one tiny
Scottish trading post was going to
survive when you threatened to take
trade and gold from Spanish? Spain
was King William of Scotland’s
ally. France were the enemy.
PATERSON
It didn’t need to come to fighting.
WALTER HERRIES
It always comes to fighting. It
always has. It always will. Whether
on the sea, on the land, in the
boardroom or at home with wife,
power and control is only obtained
through fighting.
PATERSON
A small spot.
WALTER HERRIES
A spot that was troublesome and
itched at the King of Spain as a
blistering wound. He had to pick
it, otherwise every overseas
territory would have been at peril
of some upstart nation with ideas
of grandeur above their station.
(closing in on Paterson)
Why?
PATERSON
(inaudible)
WALTER HERRIES
What?
PATERSON
(clears his throat)
A canal.
WALTER HERRIES
A canal?
Herries clutches his stomach as he howls with laughter.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
(mockingly announcing)
Mr William Paterson, the great
banker of our time, a visionary on
world trade and commerce, was going
to establish a port in Darien,
heart of the Spanish Empire in
order to build a canal!
He rallies back to Paterson.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
(in confidence)
Were you going to link the Pacific
and the Atlantic Oceans?
Paterson nods, still avoiding eye-contact with the mocking
attack from Herries.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
(mockingly announcing)
To build the greatest man made
structure every seen….wait, wait,
what would we call it…the Darien
Canal! No, no, the Paterson Canal?!
Herries pirouettes off balancing his glass daintily. He stops
and takes a sip.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
Wait…is this Madeira wine?
Standing back underneath the portrait of King William,
Herries nods sagely.
WALTER HERRIES (CONT’D)
(solemnly)
So my dear King William. I hope
that answers all your questions: a
canal. Paterson wanted Scotland to
build a colossal canal to levy the
Spanish for their transportation of
gold and bring success to the
Scottish nation. And what did he
bring?
EXT. FORT EDINBURGH – DUSK
The palisades to the east of the fort are severely damaged.
Soldiers man the cannons but are exhausted. A queue of men
has formed in the centre of the fort. A broth is ladled into
a each man’s copper mug from a cauldron. A lumpy substance
floats across the surface.
A cannon ball strikes the east wall and splinters of wood fly
through the air. The men wince but remain in line.
Major Cunningham and Paterson observe from the west side of
the fortification.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
We’re running out of ammunition
Paterson.
PATERSON
We’re running out of more than that
Major.
(sarcastically)
Any word from our brave leader?
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM
Nothing.
A boat can be seen rowing from the St Andrew to shore.
MAJOR CUNNINGHAM (CONT’D)
Unless, of course, he’s coming to
our rescue right now.
EXT. BEACH OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
Pennecuik and Don Juan Pimienta sit behind a desk on the
beach with three large pieces of parchment in front of them.
Pennecuik scrawls a signature across the bottom of each. He
stands up and addresses a small group of officers.
PENNECUIK
Gentlemen, our position here is
untenable. We shall, with full
honours, depart these shores and
seek to venture another day.
Land men line the beach, most sick, others injured, all
dejected. Small boats huddle the shoreline where men under
the orders of the sea men begin to board.
Pimienta stands and salutes Pennecuik.
A stretcher is carrying a delirious Alexander Campbell across
the beach to the boats.
ALEXANDER CAMPBELL
Pennecuik – you coward! What have
you done! To the last man I said.
(coughing)
Someone get me a musket.
PENNECUIK
(mumbles)
Pish-paff.
EXT. BAY OF DARIEN – DAY
Boats make their way backwards and forwards to the ships
ferrying the men from the shore.
All that remains on the beach are half a dozen Spanish
soldiers and a large Spanish flag flying from its flag pole.
Daniel MacKay is frantically hauling crates of birds and
small animals into a boat.
PENNECUIK
That’s enough MacKay!
DANIEL MACKAY
These are so precious Commander. I
couldn’t possible leave them.
Pennecuik is down-beaten and turns to a small boat and climbs
in. Two seamen push the boat from the shore, jump in and row
him out to the bay. He is only passenger. As they row against
the surf Pennecuik scratches furiously at his neck where a
blister has developed.
EXT. ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH – EVENING
Crowds of people are shouting in unison. Bonfires are lit up
and down the Royal Mile.
CROWD
Caledonia forever! Caledonia
forever!
A man stamps on a broadsheet into a puddle where the title
reads: “Caledonia deserted!”. In smaller font: “The Company
of Scotland on the brink of collapse.”
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – MORNING
A large bag is being hauled up the stairs from below deck by
a sailor. Another sailor pushes the bag onto the deck. He
gets to his feet and the two, together, take either end of
the bag and carry it to the starboard side of the ship. They
throw the bag onto of a large pile of other bags of similar
size. Limbs can be seen sticking out of some of the bags. The
two men, exhausted, make their way back beneath decks.
Private Henderson and Corporal McAllister walk over to the
pile of what is clearly seen now as bodies. They pick one up,
place it on a plank that is leant against the starboard side.
McAllister lifts the plank up and raises it above his head.
The body slips out of the bag and plops into the sea. It
floats there on the surface face-down.
Henderson moves to begin picking up another body. The bag
slips and the face of Pennecuik is revealed.
PRIVATE HENDERSON
Oh my God!
McAllister puts the plank down and walks to the pile of
bodies.
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Pennecuik?
PRIVATE HENDERSON
I think so.
(thoughtfully)
Then whose…
CORPORAL MCALLISTER
Not sure it will matter anymore.
EXT. ST ANDREW DECK – EVENING
The crew on deck are wrapped up tight in their winter clothes
as they look out to a cold, wet and windy ocean. Land can be
seen ahead, mountains in the distance.
PATERSON
Home.
EXT. ALLEY IN EDINBURGH – NIGHT
A man is being chased by a mob of six angry men. The man is
caught and beaten. A door opens and a women steps out.
LANES WOMAN
What are you’z all up to know? Be
off with ya.
The mob scuttle off leaving the man lying in the mud.
LANES WOMAN (CONT’D)
And what are you doing there?
He rolls over as she walks closer.
SAMUEL TUCKEY
They just set upon me, ma’am. I
didn’t do anything.
LANES WOMAN
Where ya from?
SAMUEL TUCKEY
England?
Women takes a closer look at his bloodied face and quivering
arms. She spits on him.
LANES WOMAN
Then you know where to go next.
INT. PUBLIC HOUSE ROYAL MILE – NIGHT
Young colonist takes his first sip of Ale in his home town.
Closes his eyes to savour the moment. His skin is yellow from
yellow fever.
A fist crashes into the side of his face and he tumbles to
the floor.
ROYAL MILE THUG
Coward! You fucking coward!
Man launches into a frenzied attack on the colonist.
EXT. OSWALD HOMESTEAD – EVENING
Roger Oswald his skin yellow and his clothes ragged walks to
his family’s ancestral home. It’s an impressive size three
storeys and seven windows across, detached in its rural
location.
He stumbles his last steps through a gate. His mother and
father are waiting at the door. Warm light from inside
illuminates out of the house. He smiles only to realise
something is wrong.
His father turns his mother away. She is sobbing. A young
child runs out of the farmhouse enthusiastically. The father
shouts something indistinct but with clear intent. The child
runs inside. The door is closed.
INT. ALEHOUSE IN AFRICA – NIGHT
The ale house is grubby and assorted with thugs and
criminals. There is a large contingent of black people
working and being served. The Drummonds sit at a small table,
their red and blue uniforms faded, their faces cracked and
weather-beaten.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
Are you sure about this dear
brother?
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
Yes. I grant you Captain Smiley is
a little unwholesome but he’s an
innovative soul with great
prospects for our future.
Captain Smiley a tall, gangly man approaches the table. He
has a thick black beard, carries multiple scars and wears a
long black coat. He ambles confidently to the table where the
Drummonds are sat and pulls himself up a chair from another
table where others are drinking without their consent.
CAPTAIN SMILEY
(smiling)
You must be little Robert.
He laughs showing a clear void of teeth.
CAPTAIN SMILEY (CONT’D)
Do we have a deal?
The brothers look to each other, turn back to Smiley and nod.
Smiley draws from his cloak a sack of coins and pushes them
across the table.
CAPTAIN SMILEY (CONT’D)
Don’t open them here!
(scanning the room)
Not everyone is as trustworthy as
your Captain Smiley.
INT. ROGER OSWALD’S LODGINGS – NIGHT
Roger Oswald yellow-skinned is sat at a desk, quill in hand,
parchment in front of him staring at a photo in front of him
of his mother and father. They are puritan and extremely
stern looking. He shakily begins to write.
ROGER OSWALD (V.O.)
I am mightily sorry that I should
have angered my father, but
necessity has no laws. I wish he
would forget my fault when I am
gone.
He looks up to the window in front of him into the night.
ROGER OSWALD (V.O.)
I know not whither but certainly it
is to more misfortune, for I see
plainly that my life is composed of
a labyrinth of my own, out of which
I will never get an out but by
death’s door.
EXT. ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH – DAY
Roger Oswald walks down the Royal Mile with a large sailor
sack slung over his shoulder. A couple point and glare at
him. A man walks by and spits at his feet.
ROGER OSWALD (V.O.)
I design not to go back to
Caledonia, but to somewhere else
wherever my fate leads me, though
it was one of my resolutions to go
back and lay down my life
cheerfully for my country’s sake.
EXT. PUBLIC HOUSE ROYAL MILE – DAY
Roger Oswald climbs into a carriage, the driver closes the
door shut. Oswald takes a look out to the streets for one
last time. A woman heckles him.
WOMAN
Ah, you’ve got money for a carriage
have you? We have nothing. Where’s
the gold ya thieving scum?
Roger reclines back into the safety of the carriage.
ROGER OSWALD (V.O.)
I never intended, nor do intend, to
trouble my father any more.
INT. CARRIAGE – DAY
He looks to a photo of his father.
ROGER OSWALD (V.O.)
Only I hope you will acquaint him
that I wish him long life, wealth
and happiness, and more comfort in
the rest of his children than he
has had in me.
INT. MILNE SQUARE (COMPANY HQ) – DAY
Lord Belhaven, Basil Hamilton and Robert MacKenzie sit behind
a bench in a stately room. Paterson walks towards the bench
and is assisted in being seated by an attendant. His skin is
yellow and blotchy. He struggles to sit down and appears to
be in pain. The council observe.
Behind Belhaven, Hamilton and MacKenzie stand the other
directors of the company, forty in total. They mutter to each
other as Paterson settles down.
LORD BELHAVEN
Welcome home William.
PATERSON
(struggling)
Thank you my lord.
LORD BELHAVEN
We have your thorough and clear
account. We thank you. However,
there are a couple of points we’d
like to cover.
PATERSON
Of course my lord.
LORD BELHAVEN
But first, our condolences
regarding the late Mrs Paterson.
She was a rock for you and a fine
woman.
PATERSON
Thank you my lord.
LORD BELHAVEN
Hmm. Well. Robert?
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Yes. A couple of issues Mr
Paterson.
MacKenzie stands up and begins to make his way around the
table.
BASIL HAMILTON
Robert this is no trial, please be
seated.
MacKenzie affronted makes his way back to his seat.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Of course my lord.
(beat)
Five ships sailed, three relief
ships supported, yet only one ship
has returned. What do you account
that to?
PATERSON
God.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
You believe that God was not with
you? And that God sought to thwart
our mission?
PATERSON
Most of our ministers were dead
before we found land. With little
moral guidance the men were to find
no solace under the heat or the
rain.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Is that the only reason.
PATERSON
No. We were poorly provisioned for
the voyage, poorly supplied with
trading goods and locked out of all
the English ports where no
assistance was to be found.
Gasps from the greater council members.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
Mutiny ran rife throughout. From
the common landmen to, well – as
I’m sure you are aware, the
shameful Captains Robert and Thomas
Drummond.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Shameful? They have carried out
several successful operations off
the coast of Africa it should be
stated.
The council members murmur approval from behind the bench.
PATERSON
Are we a nation that turns to
piracy? Not fit to trade but fit to
steal?
ROBERT MACKENZIE
You are confusing piracy with
privateering. These are very
different: one legitimate, the
other the actions of villains and
low-life. Do we appear to you as
‘low-life’ Mr Paterson?
LORD BELHAVEN
What MacKenzie is trying to say is
that like any good business we have
had to diversify.
(beat)
Move on please.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
The location Mr Paterson. We’ve
had, er, mixed reports. Some, a
certain Walter Herries in some
unmentionable pamphleteering, have
suggested it was a…swamp.
PATERSON
Never has a more bountiful paradise
existed on Earth. It is lush and
fruitful, with an abundance of
varieties of edible vegetation and
wildlife. To this Gentlemen I
insist we have not been misled.
Paterson coughs uncontrollably. Belhaven waves to an
assistant who brings Paterson a jug of something. Paterson
takes a slurp of what appears to be ale.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Hmm. One final question.
Murmurs rouse from those behind the bench.
ROBERT MACKENZIE (CONT’D)
(raging)
Have you got any other stupid
idiotic ideas?!
Paterson sits shocked. The council break out into what cannot
be determine is derision of MacKenzie or Paterson.
LORD BELHAVEN
Enough.
(nodding)
Enough!
Lord Belhaven stands, his large frame moving furniture. The
crowd fall silent.
LORD BELHAVEN (CONT’D)
A second expedition has been
dispatched. It will restore the
failing of the first. It has a
pious, instructed leadership. And
we will retake the land from the
Spanish.
He retakes his seat and leans forward.
LORD BELHAVEN (CONT’D)
Paterson. You have done us well.
Thank you.
(raising his voice)
But we know where the real fault
lies in this undertaking.
The pantomime continues and the directors raise a cheer.
LORD BELHAVEN (CONT’D)
(snarling)
The English!
A greater cheer erupts.
LORD BELHAVEN (CONT’D)
And we cannot let them get away
with it. They starved our
countrymen, they refused to buy our
wares!
(innocently)
When a neighbour asks for help
would you not assist?
The directors in unison respond affirmatively.
LORD BELHAVEN (CONT’D)
And did ours?
DIRECTORS
No!
LORD BELHAVEN
Is that acceptable?
DIRECTORS
No!
LORD BELHAVEN
Then let’s take our stand.
DIRECTORS
Yes!
LORD BELHAVEN
We are the Company of Scotland. We
are Scotland. We are the party for
the Country. And we have found no
help and neither do we seek any
help from our neighbours.
DIRECTORS
Yeah!
LORD BELHAVEN
Scotland. For now and FOREVER!
EXT. OPEN SEA – AFTERNOON
Two ships are grappled together. Captain Smiley stands on the
rail of one with one foot and the rail of the other with the
other foot. He surveys the two ships looking to the rigging
and looks closer to one. He points his sword to its rigging.
Dead bodies are strewn around the decks.
CAPTAIN SMILEY
Aye lads. I think we’ll take this
one.
The crew cheer and begin to gather valuable from dead bodies.
Barrels are handed across from one ship to the other.
CAPTAIN SMILEY (CONT’D)
But in true naval tradition
(beat)
I’m afraid we shall have to depart
with this blessed ocean beast.
Smiley jumps to the ship he has chosen and sheaths his sword.
CAPTAIN SMILEY (CONT’D)
Prepare to scuttle!
EXT. DOCKSIDE – EVENING
The Drummonds and Captain Smiley are stood in conversation.
Some of Smiley’s crew are mulling around behind him.
CAPTAIN SMILEY
Tragic dear lads. I almost wept as
her stern waved farewell beneath
the swell – that I did. But it
couldn’t be helped ye see. It was
in poor condition and likely to
burst a leak at any moment. Once
the Beatrice had put a couple more
holes in her – well, maybe a mercy.
Thankfully, your good friend
Captain Smiley was on hand to deal
with her departure with dignity.
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
And the Beatrice?
CAPTAIN SMILEY
Yes, she’s a beauty, isn’t she?
CAPTAIN THOMAS DRUMMOND
She’s ours now.
Smiley’s crew straighten up and begin to pay attention.
CAPTAIN SMILEY
Ah, that would be a frightening
mistake to assume such a thing.
Those are not the laws around these
parts my dear friend. Don’t get
yourself wrangled up in thieving
now. I see more honour in you than
that.
Thomas Drummond’s moves towards Captain Smiley, Robert
Drummond restrains him.
CAPTAIN ROBERT DRUMMOND
(whispers)
Leave it brother.
CAPTAIN SMILEY
(smiling broadly)
Wise lads.
Smiley turns and takes a couple of paces, then turns back to
the Drummonds.
CAPTAIN SMILEY (CONT’D)
Sadly, I lost a couple of good men
during that skirmish. If a hard
day’s work is what you’re after I
have some vacancies.
Captain Smiley gives them a broad, open mouth smile.
INT. PUBLIC HOUSE ROYAL MILE – NIGHT
Captain Thomas Green an English sea captain of the Worcester
is drinking heavily with his three officers, all of them
Scottish. He is a young captain in his late twenties with
shoulder length blond hair. They are in high spirits and
Green’s English accent is noticeable within the busy bar.
Robert MacKenzie sits alone in a shady corner of the bar
watching the English captain and his officers. His face is
stern and bitter.
THOMAS GREEN
Yes, that’s right we were off the
coast of Africa weren’t we!
The four men fall about laughing, holding onto each other as
they try to remain seated.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Africa? Perfect.
MacKenzie breaks into a large sinister smile.
INT. LANES LODGINGS – MORNING
In the lodgings in his rooms lies Captain Thomas Green in
bed.
A large thud is heard at the door to the main room. Next, the
door crashes open and twenty soldiers storm the room armed
with muskets and bayonetted rifles. The soldiers pile through
into the room and into the bedroom. Rifles point to the
startled Thomas Green.
SOLDIER
In the name of their majesties King
William and Mary of Scotland, I
hereby arrest you for the
treasonous act of piracy and
purposefully destroying property of
the Company of Scotland.
EXT. ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH – AFTERNOON
The Royal Mile is packed with people. They cover all the
streets leading from the Leigh Gate up to the gate to the
Edinburgh Castle. They are angry.
ALL
No reprieve! No reprieve!
They are shouting. They wave pieces of newspaper.
ALL (CONT’D)
Kill the English! Kill the English!
They look towards Edinburgh Castle. A carriage makes its way
through the crowds. The anger of the crowd begins to become
focussed on the carriage. Lord Belhaven sticks he head out.
LORD BELHAVEN
No reprieve! No reprieve!
The crowd abate and allow the carriage to proceed. They
return their focus to Edinburgh Castle where the carriage
heads.
A figure walks in parallel to the carriage as it makes its
way up the Royal Mile. It is Roderick MacKenzie.
He is darkly clocked and retains eye-contact with the
carriage. The laird recognises him and is momentarily
startled. He nods in obedience to MacKenzie.
INT. PRIVY COUNCIL – AFTERNOON
The Privy Council chambers are dark and dusty. It is formed
of a series of benches stacked vertically and a pulpit for a
speaker to address the Council. There are noticeable empty
seats within the chamber.
LORD BELHAVEN
The people want blood.
BASIL HAMILTON
And I’d rather it be English blood
to be honest. I don’t have enough
for what they’re after.
LORD BELHAVEN
Then we send the innocent to their
death my lords?
There’s an awkward grumbling around the chamber.
INT. EDINBURGH CASTLE JAILHOUSE – AFTERNOON
Thomas Green and his crew stand behind bars in the jailhouse.
He strides back and forth, head back with confidence.
THOMAS GREEN
Have no fear. Our King will save
us.
INT. PRIVY COUNCIL – AFTERNOON
The Privy Council continue their debate.
BASIL HAMILTON
Our sources do mention something
about the Drummonds making a deal
with a pirate just before the
recorded loss of the ship.
LORD BELHAVEN
Those sources have been found to be
unreliable. Thomas Green by his own
confession was sailing the
Worcester in that very area and we
have witnesses from the Rat’s
Castle that corroborate this.
Murmurs between the council and nods of agreement.
EXT. ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH – AFTERNOON
Thomas Green and three of his officers are marched from the
Gate of Edinburgh Castle down the Royal Mile. They are
surrounded by the Kings Guards preventing any contact from
the jeering crowd. People spit wildly. One catches a soldier
who reacts taking the butt of his rifle to the head of the
assailant.
Thomas Green remains defiant and confident.
ALL
No reprieve! No reprieve!
THOMAS GREEN
God and His Majesty know of my
innocence. You shall not have your
pound of flesh today.
MacKenzie watches Green as he is escorted down the Royal
Mile.
EXT. LEIGH – DUSK
The crowds have followed the small party all the way to Leigh
where a hangman awaits.
Thomas Green and his three officers line up along the
gallows. Green is more anxious now. He looks towards the
Gates of Edinburgh, straining, for some movement.
The crowd are in full voice.
ALL
Hang the English! Hang the thieves.
Have no mercy! No reprieve!
Thomas Green falls to his knees.
THOMAS GREEN
No! Have mercy! Please I am
innocent.
The crowd grow quiet.
THOMAS GREEN (CONT’D)
I am a mere Captain of a small
vessel that has never had dealings
with your beloved ship. So God be
my witness.
The crowd begin to jeer and shout.
ALL
Hang the English!
THOMAS GREEN
No, please!
MAN 1
Murderer!
MAN 2
You’ll never rule over us!
Green breaks down into tears as the hangman places the noose
around their necks.
THOMAS GREEN
(feebly)
No, please.
The trap doors are opened one at a time. Thomas Green the
last one. Chocking and dangling the crowd roar with approval.
They begin to dance and sing.
INT. PRISON IN SEVILLE – DAY
Pincarton and three other officers are held within a cell
with a long bench at the back and four low beds covered with
grey blankets. Keys rattle in the thick wooden windowless
door, it unlocks and opens.
Paul Rycaut walks through.
PINCARTON
(surprised)
Rycaut!
SIR PAUL RYCAUT
I thought it sounded dangerous!
You’re all free. The King has an
alliance with the Spanish now.
Let’s not be causing any more
trouble for them.
INT. HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT – DAY
The House of Commons is packed. Raucous jeering introduces
the scene. The men of the house return to their seats.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE
The Right Honourable Thomas
Osborne, Duke of Leeds.
LEEDS
Mr Speaker, it brings me great
honour to present to the house this
Bill.
The Commons quietens down.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
It is without precedence that I
offer to the house a unique and
worthy Act that will embrace our
Scottish neighbours under the
safety and stability of a Union. It
is without prejudice that I
heartily back such a Union of two
great Kingdoms.
HOUSE OF COMMONS
Here, here.
LEEDS
Our great and wise King himself
already reigns over these two
Kingdoms and is baffled as to why
we are not already united in our
common struggles against our common
enemies.
HOUSE OF COMMONS
Here, here.
LEEDS
It is time to put down the weapons
of war and the plots of prejudice.
It is time to open our doors to our
neighbour, open our ports so to
enhance their trade and open our
coffers to pay their debts!
Raucous laughter throughout the House.
LEEDS (CONT’D)
And…and…to secure these isles.
For indeed we know where lie the
real dangers.
(Leeds nods knowingly)
Across the channel to the Catholic
King who is mad as a monk
sunbathing in winter in Hampton
Court!
HOUSE OF COMMONS
Here! Here!
LEEDS
So, I hereby put forward to this
House – the Act of Union between
England and Scotland!
The members of the House stand.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE
Division!
The members make their way down from their seats to behind
the Speaker’s chair.
INT. SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT – EVENING
The Scottish Parliament has assembled. There is a distinctly
different atmosphere to that of the English House of Commons –
it is very subdued.
LORD BELHAVEN
My lords. I hereby put forward to
this House the Act of Union between
England and Scotland.
Grumblings from the members of parliament. Belhaven sits down
despondent.
EXT. ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH – DAY
Six carts are led up the Royal Mile by donkeys. The carts are
covered by thick brown blankets and tied in place securely by
rope. Sixty foot soldiers of the King’s Guards walk alongside
the carts, armed and vigilant. At the head is a Lieutenant on
his horse.
The crowd is jeering but not violent.
WOMAN
You won’t buy me with your filthy
English gold!
The woman spits on the ground in front of the troops.
INT. VAULT IN EDINBURGH CASTLE – DAY
In the vault soldiers struggle to carry small sacks. They
place them onto a table where a serious looking clerk takes
opens the bag and begin to pile the gold coins into neat
columns. A large ledger sits on an adjacent table where a
clerk is scribing with quill.
Two soldiers bring in a large box. The serious looking clerk
stops his piling and motions for the box to be opened. A
soldier un-sheaths a short dagger and prises the box open.
The other soldiers assists in pulling the lid free.
Within the box are a series of large notes with the marking
of the Bank of England.
EXT. ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH – DAY
The carriages led by donkeys still return down the Royal
Mile. Their loads are empty save loose blankets and rope. The
soldiers less formally escort the carts which are still led
by the Lieutenant.
The crowd’s volume increases.
WOMAN 1
Traitors!
MAN 1
Nothing for the poor then?
A small rock is thrown from the crowd hitting a soldier on
the side of his head. He stumbles and blood flows from his
skull.
A volley of rocks follow suit and the convoy breaks into a
trot, then a rout. Donkeys braying; the lead horse neighing
and the lieutenant struggling to regain control.
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
WALTER HERRIES
(broadly smiling)
So, you got your gold after all?
EXT. QUAYSIDE – DAY
A carriage pulls up alongside the dockside and Gleneagles
bounds out. He takes his hat of in frustration and throws it
to the ground.
GLENEAGLES
Ah! Damn you.
EXT. ON BOARD A SHIP – MOMENTS LATER
A figure stands at the helm of the ship, relaxed, leaning
over the side of the ship. He cocks his head to one side.
Then raises his head and back to the shore. It is James
Smyth.
Smyth salutes Gleneagles.
JAMES SMYTH
The name’s Mac…
(pondering)
McKay.
Smiling he turns his back to Gleneagles and towards the sun
setting on the sea horizon.
EXT. MRS PURDIE’S HOUSE – DAY
Lady Hamilton makes her way up the steps to Mrs Purdie’s
house trailed obediently by her son Basil Hamilton. They
enter the house.
INT. MRS PURDIE’S HOUSE – DAY
Robert MacKenzie stands behind a large table. He looks up as
Lady Hamilton approaches, Basil Hamilton shadowing behind.
She stands opposite MacKenzie.
ANNE, DUCHESS OF HAMILTON
Well, you certainly made of mess of
that.
ROBERT MACKENZIE
Hmm. All monies have been returned,
with a fair, if not handsome,
return.
ANNE, DUCHESS OF HAMILTON
At what cost?
INT. PRIVATE CLUB IN WESTMINSTER, ENGLAND – DAY (1707)
Paterson sits on his chair staring forward, the whiskey glass
empty and the bottle nearly empty.
PATERSON
(stuttering)
We had struggled through those
times. It is true. Famine after
famine broke our people and we
needed a way out. We saw a glimpse
at that future. And we dared to
hope. We dared to venture and in
the most unfortunate way we failed.
But that is not to say that we
didn’t know where we needed to go.
(beat)
This ‘Union’ has brought the
Scottish people the future they
sought. Upon this we will make our
name across the globe and find a
foothold in every English port.
We shall see the world as an
opportunity not the enemy and we
will sew our ideas, our ideals and
our hopes in more lands than ever
we could have achieved by
ourselves.
Paterson gets up to stand, placing the whiskey glass on the
table. He elongates his back as though he is waking and
walks, slowly at first, towards the double doors. When he
reaches the doors he puts his hands to two large door nobs
and pauses. He closes his eyes and then opens them quickly.
He turns his head to the library within which he has been
drinking. There is no interviewer and there is no Walter
Herries.
PATERSON (CONT’D)
We carry no burdens going forward.
Our sins are wiped clean.
(smiling)
We are now licensed: British.
He turns back to the door, takes a deep breath and turns the
nobs. With a large clunk both doors open and he walks through
light streaming in from outside.
FADE TO WHITE
[Music: Zadok the Priest]
EXT. SHORE OF NEW EDINBURGH – DAY
The fort with Spanish flags flying slowly disintegrates and
falls into ruins. The vegetation around the fort begins to
overgrow the area where nature takes over from man.
THE END
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The Darien Scheme 