TURN: Washington's Spies (2014–2017): Season 2, Episode 2 - Hard Boiled - full transcript
Abe continues his mission in New York, while Simcoe adjusts to his punishment. Mean while Andre seduces Peggy.
- ( chatter ) - ( seagulls screeching )
Abe's voice: Brooklyn Ferry, October 14.
Troop number is lower since my last trip,
but naval presence still strong.
I count two dozen warships in the harbor,
including one ship of the line--
the Eagle, Lord Howe's flagship with 60 guns.
The rest are lesser armed frigates and sloops.
Mr. Woodhull.
Abe's voice: Land defenses on the Brooklyn side include--
- Mr. Woodhull, sir! - Hmm?
He wants your papers.
Oh, yeah.
There you go.
As you can see, I have permission
from Major Hewlett of Setauket to enter the city.
"For legal studies," eh?
The next ferry should be here soon.
You can wait over there.
Don't see why I've got to lurk about here
when I could be getting my Thomas milked in holy ground.
I'm afraid your pilgrimage will have to wait.
My bag, please.
Seems odd you need protecting all the way here
only to hoof it about alone in the city.
Makes me wonder what you're really up to
with your legal studies.
Don't wonder too hard. You might hurt yourself.
My bag.
If Captain Simcoe were here--
Your orders are from Major Hewlett, not Captain Simcoe.
And I suggest you follow them
unless you want to end up like him.
- ( distant applause ) - ( chatter )
( distant flute playing )
( crowd cheering )
- ( applause, cheering ) - ( feet marching )
( gasps, growls )
Man: Your attention, please!
It seems we have a poet in our midst.
Shall we pause in our labors to better appreciate his verse?
- Clerk: Hear, hear. Yes. - Ahem.
"Say,
must I all my joys forgo
and still maintain this outward show?"
- ( men laughing ) - "Say,
shall this breast that's pained to feel
be ever clad in horrid steel?
Shall no fair maid with equal fire
awake the flames of soft desire?"
( men laughing )
"'Fond youth,' the god of love replies,
'your answer take from Anna's eyes.'"
( men laughing, applauding )
Oh, dear.
What a mess you've made.
All those forms will have to be redone.
This came for you.
Perhaps it's your true love writing you back.
( laughs ) Boys.
Man: God, I'm knackered.
( chatter )
You should have seen this girl.
Voluptuous breasts. You know what I mean?
Right? ( making squeaking noises )
( laughing )
So, I showed her the silk.
Said there's more where that came from.
( whistles ) Never saw a woman drop her knickers so fast.
You like to read aloud? Read this.
"To whom it may concern."
That'd be you. Pray continue.
"Captain John Simcoe
is hereby relieved of all other duties
and is ordered to report posthaste to Major John André."
Posthaste. That means immediately.
I'm afraid I won't be able to finish today's forms.
Oh, dear. What a mess you've made.
Ah!
- ( music playing ) - ( crowd cheering )
♪ Hush, hush ♪
♪ There's snakes in the garden ♪
♪ Soul for sale ♪
♪ Blood on the rise ♪
♪ Hush, hush ♪
♪ Know there will come a day ♪
♪ As they hide in the cover of night ♪
- ♪ I can't wait anymore ♪ - ♪ Soul for sale ♪
♪ I can't wait anymore ♪
♪ Hush, hush. ♪
- ( music playing ) - ( distant dog barking )
- ( horse neighs ) - ( chatter )
( music continues )
Franklin calls it an armonica.
It mechanically recreates the tones
made by rubbing a wet finger around the rim of a wine glass.
So he mechanized a parlor trick.
Perhaps, but this parlor
is testament to the man's genius and industry.
Take his lightning rod. Placed on a roof,
it guides the energy from a bolt harmlessly to the ground.
And these eyeglasses.
The lenses are split,
offering corrections for both close
and distant viewing.
You can have the house, John.
I had no idea you admired the man so ardently.
What I admire is how he imposes no bounds
on either his curiosity or his invention.
And now he wants to invent an alliance with France,
which could turn this little rebellion into a genuine war.
Not if I have any say in the matter.
( door opens )
Ah, here are our libations.
Good. Enough anticipation.
I'd like a report with my port.
Starting with your mole in the rebel camp, Charles Lee.
( sighs )
I admit, General Lee was a poor investment.
I may yet use him, but for now
I have my sights set on a bigger fish.
Thank you, Abigail. That'll be all.
I realized what we need isn't a rival to Washington,
but a man who has his trust, a friend.
Indeed, such friends as only the comradeship of war can make.
And who might this friend be?
A man whose leadership inspires both respect
and affection.
General Benedict Arnold.
( scoffs ) Ridiculous.
Unlikely.
Arnold is the best field commander the rebels have.
Yes, but as with many men driven to succeed on the battlefield,
his virtues are often matched by his flaws.
Consider this. It's a report from one of my field agents
detailing Arnold's role in the rebel victory at Saratoga.
"We were on the verge of winning the battle
when Arnold, forced to serve under General Gates,
asked to lead a last charge.
When Gates ordered him to stay in camp,
Arnold disobeyed."
Clinton: The man is insubordinate.
( chuckles ) To Burgoyne's misfortune.
"Ignoring a volley of fire,
he single-handedly rallied the rebel troops,
turning a rout into a win."
Clinton: Poor Johnny Burgoyne.
Whipped by an apothecary.
But here's the rub. Gates took full credit for the victory.
What did Arnold get for his troubles?
He was shot in the same leg
he'd already been wounded in twice before.
It'll be some time before Arnold sees another battlefield.
Time enough for that wound to heal,
but for the many slights to his vanity
to fester.
Well, supposing he is ripe for turning,
how will you turn him?
I think of it as a dance.
Right now I'm just trying to select the proper music.
Speaking of which, there's an affair
at the house of Edward Shippen this week.
- Will you be attending? - Yes, yes.
Well, that is a dance, this is war.
- There is a difference. - Trust me, General.
The key to victory is having the right man.
Our man in the heart of the enemy camp.
Abe's voice: York City.
The city feels changed.
Petty vice and deeper corruptions have taken their toll.
That should work in my favor.
( chatter )
Abe's voice: An acquaintance from Oyster Bay
recommended a modest boardinghouse.
I figured breakfast was as good a time as any
to get the lay of the land.
Morning.
I wondered if you could hard-boil a dozen of these for me.
A dozen?
Yeah, I got a lot of books to read.
These help me get through the long afternoons in the library.
Thank you, sir.
Abe's voice: The city's inhabitants seem tired, on edge.
By my estimate, a sudden attack of 5,000 men
could take them all and end the war.
- Here you are, Mr. Woodhull. - Thank you.
The last time I was here, you couldn't take a step
without tripping over a soldier.
Now there are so few, a man barely feels safe on the streets.
Where are they all hiding?
Best to keep to your porridge, sir.
Damn! Not again.
May I make a suggestion?
You could hardly make things worse.
My father used to make me cry over this game all the time
until I learned a few tricks for myself.
He'll take my piece.
Sacrifice for the greater good.
( laughs )
King me, you unlucky bastard.
I don't know about any soldiers,
but those sailors, as you say,
are on a tear.
- Navy, huh? - Mm.
Building new ships over at the west wharf.
Making it hard for a man to get his goods to market.
Well, I'll steer clear of the west wharf.
I like to study in quiet.
Good luck.
Thank you. And have fun with your books.
What a lovely cross-stitch.
Isn't it lovely, Rachel?
Yes, very.
I'm so glad Mary invited you to join us.
It was Major Hewlett's suggestion.
I had-- I had assumed that Mrs. Strong was too busy
to be frittering away time with us.
You poor thing. You must be overwhelmed.
I can only imagine how hard it was to abandon your husband
and be forced to serve as a barmaid in the tavern he used to own.
I didn't mean to sound disparaging.
Honest work is honest work.
No offense taken.
And as for my husband,
I could hardly have gone on living with a traitor.
All men are rebels at heart.
It takes a strong woman to steer them
toward a proper understanding of their obligations.
- But such is our burden. - ( women laugh )
I had an idea last night.
I think that we should organize a charity.
A charity?
To buy provisions for families of soldiers
who've died during battle
such as poor Ensign Baker.
What sort of provisions?
Basic necessities-- flour, salt,
good cloth, Bibles, perhaps.
I think that's a wonderful idea.
Still, I wonder how far our money will go
with everything so dear these days.
Lydia: It's a pity about the poor soldiers.
But more the pity for us if our own families suffer for it.
There could be a way to lighten the burden.
As you all know, my employer
Mr. DeJong is tight with his guineas.
The man makes a vice of frugality.
Which is why he also buys his rum and supplies from a privateer.
A privateer? You mean a pirate?
A privateer is licensed by the British
to prey on rebel shipping, so it's all quite legal.
We could use Mr. DeJong's contact
and with the money we save,
the cost of Mary's charity could be quite manageable.
I don't approve of consorting with thieves
no matter what they call themselves.
Surely you approve of helping widows and orphans.
( chuckles nervously )
It's settled, then.
Good day, ladies.
Um, Mary,
has there been a delivery of a package for me?
What type of package?
I've been eagerly awaiting the delivery
of an item from London by way of New York.
It would be quite heavy.
Not yet, but I will keep an eye out for it.
Thank you.
And I am very pleased to see you
among this august company, Mrs. Strong.
Thank you, Major.
I'm very pleased to be here.
( women giggle )
It seems Anna has an august admirer.
( laughing )
Hello.
Have you seen Major André?
No, I'm sorry. I was at the market.
I'd like to know when he'll see me.
I've already been waiting an hour.
I'll go find out, sir.
Setauket.
That's where I know you from.
You were working at Strong Manor.
Tell me, do you miss Long Island?
No, sir.
I'm happy here.
I do.
I can picture it in my mind even now.
The last time we met, you stabbed a man in the neck with this over dinner.
An enemy spy I was hoping to turn double.
Your behavior was savage.
It was that same savagery, apparently, that landed you a court-martial.
Thank you, sir.
There's no need to remind me of that night.
It's still fresh in my mind.
- But... - Yes?
I must confess to wondering why you've summoned me here today.
The Queen's Rangers lack a commander.
The last murdering savage who had that job went rogue on me,
so I need a new one.
Someone who can bridle these men
and ready them for a special mission I'm planning.
( voices continue muffled )
A demotion?
The Queen's Rangers are provincial forces, aren't they?
Don't touch that.
If I accepted that post, I'd no longer be a royal officer.
You'll retain your rank, Captain.
But not my uniform.
And at the risk of sounding mercenary,
I imagine my pay will be cut as well.
( voices continue muffled )
Would you rather go back to the commissary?
I'm offering you one last chance at resurrection.
I suppose that depends on how you look at it.
It seems to me that while murdering savages
can be purchased on any corner,
those that can command other murdering savages
are a rarer commodity.
What do you want?
Whilst we await this special mission,
may I base my Rangers wherever I choose?
You'll have a ship at your disposal,
so as long as I can reach out to you quickly,
that shouldn't be a problem.
Then consider me at your disposal.
I already do. You may leave at once.
Oh, and good luck with your new men.
Rogers trained them to hate British officers even more than the rebels.
I suppose I'll have to charm them.
Thank you, Major.
I'll tell your former mistress that you're happy here.
André: A detestable man.
But sadly sometimes such men can serve a purpose.
Abigail?
You want something?
Sir, I bought this at the market
with the money you paid me.
It's for my son.
He's never had anything so fine.
- I was hoping-- - Say no more.
I'll have it sent out at once
with a dispatch rider headed for New York.
Thank you, sir.
I'll wrap it up right away.
Abe's voice: October 16.
My fellow boarder's tip proves well-founded.
Heavy naval activity at the west wharf.
Cannon emplacements at the Battery.
Nine-pounder on a naval carriage
and a six-pound field piece.
♪ The rat's in the corner in the hot mad sun ♪
♪ Was waiting on the day for something to believe in ♪
♪ I was in the northern, dust in the eye ♪
♪ Keep your eyes open ♪
♪ Keep your eyes open ♪
♪ 'Cause you'll never take us alive ♪
♪ Ah... ♪
October 17.
South Ward.
Two frigates, the 32-gun Alarm
and 28-gun Sybil moored at Peck's Slip
along with the 18-gun sloop Tobago.
General Howe may have taken most of the army,
but he's left his mercenaries here.
Hessians, 200 foot.
More cannon on the Battery.
A dozen 24-pounders and half as many 16-pounders.
...Canal Street.
Pits being dug every 50 yards,
three or four feet deep and lined with stakes.
No doubt to wound men who attempt a night attack.
Troop barges moored at Old Slip.
They're secured by chains and booms to keep off fire rafts.
- Hello there. Ahem. - Oh, pardon.
This isn't-- your room is the next one.
Is, uh--
is there something wrong with the eggs I've boiled for you?
No, I just--
I like my eggs warm.
( exhales )
( knocking )
( knocking )
Who is it?
Major Hewlett.
Ah, Mrs. Strong.
I was afraid it would be too late, but then I saw your light.
How can I help you, Major?
I have received a package
from Major André from Philadelphia.
I believe it to be another gift
from your former slave Abigail to her son.
Cicero is asleep now, but I'm sure he'll be very excited to receive it.
I thought to bring it personally because I have some news
which I think you'll be pleased to hear.
Yes?
Seeing you with Mrs. Woodhull's coterie made me realize anew
how difficult this ordeal must have been for you.
Forced from your home and unable to take part
in the ordinary life of the town,
all by the treachery of a man
whose name you have to drag behind you like a sea anchor.
So, I saw the judge.
And he sees no impediment to you securing a divorce.
Oh.
You can argue desertion.
I hadn't considered it yet, but here, let me--
The only caveat is that it might take more than a year.
And so in the meantime, I thought
that I might make you a proposal.
A proposal?
I of course don't mean
in the formal sense of the word.
I, um...
thought that if perhaps you might be open
to establishing a friendship.
Entirely platonic, of course.
"Play-tonic"?
Yes, owing to the ideals of Plato
that is attributed to his feelings
with the prophetess Diotima.
Feelings, he felt,
unencumbered by the base Eros,
was a surer way to the contemplation of the divine.
Major.
Yes.
Yes, of course.
I didn't mean to presume.
Uh, good night.
Major.
Abigail's gift.
Oh.
Yes, how foolish of me.
Good night.
- ( violin playing ) - ( quiet chatter )
Clinton: Ah, a whiff of civilization.
- Why, it almost reminds me of Paris. - London.
Tell me about our host in case I'm forced to converse with him.
The Shippens are the cream of Philadelphia society.
This ball is their way of welcoming us.
So clearly there can be no doubt about their loyalties?
Actually, it is a bit unclear.
Judge Shippen opposed the extension of royal authority,
at least where taxation is concerned.
But he also opposed last year's Pennsylvania constitution.
Though perhaps because it threatened his own authority
as much as the Crown's.
So is the man for us or against us?
Families such as the Shippens imagine they are above us, sir.
Well, above you, maybe.
And yet, with hair like that, they can't help but tower.
It's a miracle it doesn't topple.
- Who is-- - Margaret Shippen, their youngest.
And as for the high roll, it's the latest fashion.
Looks French to me.
Oh, there's Cornwallis.
I can't resist a chance to tweak Charlie
about how Washington foxed him at Trenton.
A pleasure, Lieutenant.
Likewise, Miss Shippen.
The very instant I saw you did my heart fly to your service.
Do you quote Shakespeare to all the ladies?
Only the ones that stir a tempest in my heart.
I think you do, for that was well-rehearsed.
( women giggling )
At least they don't kiss in the continental style.
It disorders one's high roll,
and I've already put poor Freddy through enough today.
Have a care, Peggy. You'll scare off all the eligible men.
- Freddy: She's right. - That's because to Becky all men are eligible.
And I expect when we're her age, we'll feel the same.
- Thank you, Becky. - You're welcome, Becky.
By the time I'm Miss Redman's age,
I expect to be on my second husband.
Ever the romantic.
But first you may want to find number one.
And who would you pick, Freddy, from this pool of too eager candidates?
I guess that depends on what one looks for in a man.
If I were Peggy,
I would choose someone
tall and dashing.
Maybe someone with an elegant little braid.
Then again, I'm sure our Peggy is immune
to such superficial inducements.
Why, Peggy, he didn't even smile at you.
A man immune to the charms of Margaret Shippen.
What has the world come to?
I suspect he's more Freddy's type after all.
One can dream.
It's your deal, Becky.
Age before beauty.
Youth before wisdom.
I'll deal.
Now what is that infernal man doing?
( playing up-tempo music )
Killing the ambiance, apparently.
Not so, apparently.
Major John André at your service, ladies.
What service are you offering, Major?
Why, a dance, of course.
May I have the pleasure?
May I have the pleasure, Miss Franks?
General, I heard a rumor
that you can lead a minuet as expertly as a charge.
- Is it true? - Perhaps.
But would your father approve, Miss Shippen?
Do you require his approval?
I thought you were the highest authority in this room
if not this city.
( music continues )
- ( music ends ) - ( applause )
( music resumes )
Major André.
Miss Shippen.
So you know my name after all.
I know your family quite well.
Or of them anyway.
And I know nothing of you.
Except perhaps that you asked my friend to dance
in an attempt to induce jealousy.
Do you really think women are so easily manipulated?
We're dancing, aren't we?
There's a fine line between confidence and arrogance, Major.
I'm sure you'll tell me if I cross it.
I'm reserving judgment.
Still, why not aim directly at what you're after?
When I saw you turn away other men, I knew a stratagem was called for.
If not to pique your jealousy, then at least your curiosity.
You like to play games, don't you?
As do you.
This may be a game to a man,
but to a woman, the stakes are very real.
Even to a very lovely young woman?
A woman's allure rests on her saying no.
But no matter how lovely, she can only say no for so long
or she ends up like my poor Becky, an old maid at 26.
( music ends )
You may have won this dance, Major,
but who's to say there'll be another?
Is this the fate of every man to fall under your spell?
One whirl around the dance floor and then oblivion?
How many others do you think there have been?
I won't hazard a guess, but I'm sure you entertained
some rebel officers before we came to town.
More tolerated than entertained.
What about that scamp who gave us so much trouble at Saratoga?
Benedict Arnold.
I hear he once stayed at your house.
When I was 14.
If my eyes are any judge,
I imagine he must still think of you.
Do you?
I wonder, what games are we playing now?
( music resumes )
Boccherini's minuet.
Dare I request another dance?
Just one more, perhaps.
No breakfast? You paid for it.
Uh, no. I can't, I'm afraid. Long trip back.
Best be on my way.
How about some bread for the road?
Fine.
Let's see.
Here you go.
Law studies off to a good start?
I hope so.
It's not really for me to judge.
For a man cocooned with his books,
you managed quite a sunburn.
Old habits, I suppose.
I was a farmer before I took up the law.
I thought why waste the whole of a lovely day indoors
when I could be out committing my case to memory?
Thank you.
I had a lovely stay.
And I expect I'll be back soon.
- ( chatter ) - ( seagulls screeching )
You look like the cat that ate the cream.
I think the law agrees with me.
I'm glad someone enjoyed himself.
Well, you keep dreaming of holy ground, Mr. Eastin.
Someday you'll get your just reward.
Hold on there. Need to see those bags first.
Right.
There you go.
What's this?
- Lunch. - Let's see it.
If you must.
Looks like someone's robbed the henhouse.
Can you spare a couple?
Help yourself.
Just avoid the brown ones, though. They're a little sour.
What brown ones? All right, then. Off you go.
- Hyah. Hyah. - Wait, wait, wait.
I think I left something in my room.
I don't want to risk getting caught after dark. Hey!
( panting )
Back already?
Yeah.
I think I left something in my room.
It's already been rented out.
- Oh. - You don't look well, sir.
Here you go. I still owe you breakfast.
I didn't order this.
I know, but you didn't stick to your porridge either, did you?
I wondered if you could hard-boil a dozen of these for me.
Owner: How about some bread for the road?
Abe: Fine.
( heart beating )
It was hard-boiled.
That one had a bitter taste. I couldn't serve it.
Then why did you take it in the first place?
Would you rather I had served it to that gentleman?
I'm sorry, I-- I never got your name.
The name's Townsend. Robert Townsend.
And I don't care to see you here again.
Hey, boy.
Boy.
My name ain't boy.
You calling me a liar, boy?
Oh, yeah, it's Aak-- Aak-in-balls, right?
Akinbode.
Major Rogers' pet monkey.
You and that Indian.
What was his damn name?
- Awass-hole. - Awass-hole.
Aak-in-balls and Awass-hole, that's right.
Only the Indian left when Rogers did.
But you're still here. Why are you here, boy?
I earned my place just like the rest of you.
Right.
You're good with sticks.
Take it.
Go on.
See if I don't add your scalp to my friends here.
- Man: All right, Cager. - ( chatter )
Whoa.
Well, what have we here?
If you're looking for Philadelphia,
head to the river and make a right.
- ( men laugh ) - Thank you.
But I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.
My name is Captain John Graves Simcoe
and I'm your new commander by orders of Major John André.
That's a nice hat you got there, your lordship.
But it might get a little dirty where we go.
- ( men laugh ) - Trust me,
I've no more desire to lead a provincial force
than you have to serve under a royal officer.
These are my orders and yours are to obey mine.
If you do, I promise to mold you
into the finest light infantry in the land.
Now...
let's line up and fall in.
I think what they're saying, Captain,
by not saying sod,
is why should we obey a fop
in silly togs?
I take it, then, that you already know
all there is to know about fighting.
More than you, dandelion.
Then kill me, if you can.
You worry about the consequences, I see.
But who would ever know all the way out here?
You could kill me and then stuff my body in some animal's burrow
and say you never saw me.
That is, of course, if you can kill me.
( grunts )
- ( cracks ) - ( screams )
( grunts )
- ( groans ) - Thank you.
( screams )
One more for your collection.
Now then, where were we?
No!
( groaning )
My hope, of course,
is that our lessons won't have to be repeated.
( pistol cocks )
( gunshot )
Now, let's try this again.
Fall in.
( theme music playing )
Abe's voice: Brooklyn Ferry, October 14.
Troop number is lower since my last trip,
but naval presence still strong.
I count two dozen warships in the harbor,
including one ship of the line--
the Eagle, Lord Howe's flagship with 60 guns.
The rest are lesser armed frigates and sloops.
Mr. Woodhull.
Abe's voice: Land defenses on the Brooklyn side include--
- Mr. Woodhull, sir! - Hmm?
He wants your papers.
Oh, yeah.
There you go.
As you can see, I have permission
from Major Hewlett of Setauket to enter the city.
"For legal studies," eh?
The next ferry should be here soon.
You can wait over there.
Don't see why I've got to lurk about here
when I could be getting my Thomas milked in holy ground.
I'm afraid your pilgrimage will have to wait.
My bag, please.
Seems odd you need protecting all the way here
only to hoof it about alone in the city.
Makes me wonder what you're really up to
with your legal studies.
Don't wonder too hard. You might hurt yourself.
My bag.
If Captain Simcoe were here--
Your orders are from Major Hewlett, not Captain Simcoe.
And I suggest you follow them
unless you want to end up like him.
- ( distant applause ) - ( chatter )
( distant flute playing )
( crowd cheering )
- ( applause, cheering ) - ( feet marching )
( gasps, growls )
Man: Your attention, please!
It seems we have a poet in our midst.
Shall we pause in our labors to better appreciate his verse?
- Clerk: Hear, hear. Yes. - Ahem.
"Say,
must I all my joys forgo
and still maintain this outward show?"
- ( men laughing ) - "Say,
shall this breast that's pained to feel
be ever clad in horrid steel?
Shall no fair maid with equal fire
awake the flames of soft desire?"
( men laughing )
"'Fond youth,' the god of love replies,
'your answer take from Anna's eyes.'"
( men laughing, applauding )
Oh, dear.
What a mess you've made.
All those forms will have to be redone.
This came for you.
Perhaps it's your true love writing you back.
( laughs ) Boys.
Man: God, I'm knackered.
( chatter )
You should have seen this girl.
Voluptuous breasts. You know what I mean?
Right? ( making squeaking noises )
( laughing )
So, I showed her the silk.
Said there's more where that came from.
( whistles ) Never saw a woman drop her knickers so fast.
You like to read aloud? Read this.
"To whom it may concern."
That'd be you. Pray continue.
"Captain John Simcoe
is hereby relieved of all other duties
and is ordered to report posthaste to Major John André."
Posthaste. That means immediately.
I'm afraid I won't be able to finish today's forms.
Oh, dear. What a mess you've made.
Ah!
- ( music playing ) - ( crowd cheering )
♪ Hush, hush ♪
♪ There's snakes in the garden ♪
♪ Soul for sale ♪
♪ Blood on the rise ♪
♪ Hush, hush ♪
♪ Know there will come a day ♪
♪ As they hide in the cover of night ♪
- ♪ I can't wait anymore ♪ - ♪ Soul for sale ♪
♪ I can't wait anymore ♪
♪ Hush, hush. ♪
- ( music playing ) - ( distant dog barking )
- ( horse neighs ) - ( chatter )
( music continues )
Franklin calls it an armonica.
It mechanically recreates the tones
made by rubbing a wet finger around the rim of a wine glass.
So he mechanized a parlor trick.
Perhaps, but this parlor
is testament to the man's genius and industry.
Take his lightning rod. Placed on a roof,
it guides the energy from a bolt harmlessly to the ground.
And these eyeglasses.
The lenses are split,
offering corrections for both close
and distant viewing.
You can have the house, John.
I had no idea you admired the man so ardently.
What I admire is how he imposes no bounds
on either his curiosity or his invention.
And now he wants to invent an alliance with France,
which could turn this little rebellion into a genuine war.
Not if I have any say in the matter.
( door opens )
Ah, here are our libations.
Good. Enough anticipation.
I'd like a report with my port.
Starting with your mole in the rebel camp, Charles Lee.
( sighs )
I admit, General Lee was a poor investment.
I may yet use him, but for now
I have my sights set on a bigger fish.
Thank you, Abigail. That'll be all.
I realized what we need isn't a rival to Washington,
but a man who has his trust, a friend.
Indeed, such friends as only the comradeship of war can make.
And who might this friend be?
A man whose leadership inspires both respect
and affection.
General Benedict Arnold.
( scoffs ) Ridiculous.
Unlikely.
Arnold is the best field commander the rebels have.
Yes, but as with many men driven to succeed on the battlefield,
his virtues are often matched by his flaws.
Consider this. It's a report from one of my field agents
detailing Arnold's role in the rebel victory at Saratoga.
"We were on the verge of winning the battle
when Arnold, forced to serve under General Gates,
asked to lead a last charge.
When Gates ordered him to stay in camp,
Arnold disobeyed."
Clinton: The man is insubordinate.
( chuckles ) To Burgoyne's misfortune.
"Ignoring a volley of fire,
he single-handedly rallied the rebel troops,
turning a rout into a win."
Clinton: Poor Johnny Burgoyne.
Whipped by an apothecary.
But here's the rub. Gates took full credit for the victory.
What did Arnold get for his troubles?
He was shot in the same leg
he'd already been wounded in twice before.
It'll be some time before Arnold sees another battlefield.
Time enough for that wound to heal,
but for the many slights to his vanity
to fester.
Well, supposing he is ripe for turning,
how will you turn him?
I think of it as a dance.
Right now I'm just trying to select the proper music.
Speaking of which, there's an affair
at the house of Edward Shippen this week.
- Will you be attending? - Yes, yes.
Well, that is a dance, this is war.
- There is a difference. - Trust me, General.
The key to victory is having the right man.
Our man in the heart of the enemy camp.
Abe's voice: York City.
The city feels changed.
Petty vice and deeper corruptions have taken their toll.
That should work in my favor.
( chatter )
Abe's voice: An acquaintance from Oyster Bay
recommended a modest boardinghouse.
I figured breakfast was as good a time as any
to get the lay of the land.
Morning.
I wondered if you could hard-boil a dozen of these for me.
A dozen?
Yeah, I got a lot of books to read.
These help me get through the long afternoons in the library.
Thank you, sir.
Abe's voice: The city's inhabitants seem tired, on edge.
By my estimate, a sudden attack of 5,000 men
could take them all and end the war.
- Here you are, Mr. Woodhull. - Thank you.
The last time I was here, you couldn't take a step
without tripping over a soldier.
Now there are so few, a man barely feels safe on the streets.
Where are they all hiding?
Best to keep to your porridge, sir.
Damn! Not again.
May I make a suggestion?
You could hardly make things worse.
My father used to make me cry over this game all the time
until I learned a few tricks for myself.
He'll take my piece.
Sacrifice for the greater good.
( laughs )
King me, you unlucky bastard.
I don't know about any soldiers,
but those sailors, as you say,
are on a tear.
- Navy, huh? - Mm.
Building new ships over at the west wharf.
Making it hard for a man to get his goods to market.
Well, I'll steer clear of the west wharf.
I like to study in quiet.
Good luck.
Thank you. And have fun with your books.
What a lovely cross-stitch.
Isn't it lovely, Rachel?
Yes, very.
I'm so glad Mary invited you to join us.
It was Major Hewlett's suggestion.
I had-- I had assumed that Mrs. Strong was too busy
to be frittering away time with us.
You poor thing. You must be overwhelmed.
I can only imagine how hard it was to abandon your husband
and be forced to serve as a barmaid in the tavern he used to own.
I didn't mean to sound disparaging.
Honest work is honest work.
No offense taken.
And as for my husband,
I could hardly have gone on living with a traitor.
All men are rebels at heart.
It takes a strong woman to steer them
toward a proper understanding of their obligations.
- But such is our burden. - ( women laugh )
I had an idea last night.
I think that we should organize a charity.
A charity?
To buy provisions for families of soldiers
who've died during battle
such as poor Ensign Baker.
What sort of provisions?
Basic necessities-- flour, salt,
good cloth, Bibles, perhaps.
I think that's a wonderful idea.
Still, I wonder how far our money will go
with everything so dear these days.
Lydia: It's a pity about the poor soldiers.
But more the pity for us if our own families suffer for it.
There could be a way to lighten the burden.
As you all know, my employer
Mr. DeJong is tight with his guineas.
The man makes a vice of frugality.
Which is why he also buys his rum and supplies from a privateer.
A privateer? You mean a pirate?
A privateer is licensed by the British
to prey on rebel shipping, so it's all quite legal.
We could use Mr. DeJong's contact
and with the money we save,
the cost of Mary's charity could be quite manageable.
I don't approve of consorting with thieves
no matter what they call themselves.
Surely you approve of helping widows and orphans.
( chuckles nervously )
It's settled, then.
Good day, ladies.
Um, Mary,
has there been a delivery of a package for me?
What type of package?
I've been eagerly awaiting the delivery
of an item from London by way of New York.
It would be quite heavy.
Not yet, but I will keep an eye out for it.
Thank you.
And I am very pleased to see you
among this august company, Mrs. Strong.
Thank you, Major.
I'm very pleased to be here.
( women giggle )
It seems Anna has an august admirer.
( laughing )
Hello.
Have you seen Major André?
No, I'm sorry. I was at the market.
I'd like to know when he'll see me.
I've already been waiting an hour.
I'll go find out, sir.
Setauket.
That's where I know you from.
You were working at Strong Manor.
Tell me, do you miss Long Island?
No, sir.
I'm happy here.
I do.
I can picture it in my mind even now.
The last time we met, you stabbed a man in the neck with this over dinner.
An enemy spy I was hoping to turn double.
Your behavior was savage.
It was that same savagery, apparently, that landed you a court-martial.
Thank you, sir.
There's no need to remind me of that night.
It's still fresh in my mind.
- But... - Yes?
I must confess to wondering why you've summoned me here today.
The Queen's Rangers lack a commander.
The last murdering savage who had that job went rogue on me,
so I need a new one.
Someone who can bridle these men
and ready them for a special mission I'm planning.
( voices continue muffled )
A demotion?
The Queen's Rangers are provincial forces, aren't they?
Don't touch that.
If I accepted that post, I'd no longer be a royal officer.
You'll retain your rank, Captain.
But not my uniform.
And at the risk of sounding mercenary,
I imagine my pay will be cut as well.
( voices continue muffled )
Would you rather go back to the commissary?
I'm offering you one last chance at resurrection.
I suppose that depends on how you look at it.
It seems to me that while murdering savages
can be purchased on any corner,
those that can command other murdering savages
are a rarer commodity.
What do you want?
Whilst we await this special mission,
may I base my Rangers wherever I choose?
You'll have a ship at your disposal,
so as long as I can reach out to you quickly,
that shouldn't be a problem.
Then consider me at your disposal.
I already do. You may leave at once.
Oh, and good luck with your new men.
Rogers trained them to hate British officers even more than the rebels.
I suppose I'll have to charm them.
Thank you, Major.
I'll tell your former mistress that you're happy here.
André: A detestable man.
But sadly sometimes such men can serve a purpose.
Abigail?
You want something?
Sir, I bought this at the market
with the money you paid me.
It's for my son.
He's never had anything so fine.
- I was hoping-- - Say no more.
I'll have it sent out at once
with a dispatch rider headed for New York.
Thank you, sir.
I'll wrap it up right away.
Abe's voice: October 16.
My fellow boarder's tip proves well-founded.
Heavy naval activity at the west wharf.
Cannon emplacements at the Battery.
Nine-pounder on a naval carriage
and a six-pound field piece.
♪ The rat's in the corner in the hot mad sun ♪
♪ Was waiting on the day for something to believe in ♪
♪ I was in the northern, dust in the eye ♪
♪ Keep your eyes open ♪
♪ Keep your eyes open ♪
♪ 'Cause you'll never take us alive ♪
♪ Ah... ♪
October 17.
South Ward.
Two frigates, the 32-gun Alarm
and 28-gun Sybil moored at Peck's Slip
along with the 18-gun sloop Tobago.
General Howe may have taken most of the army,
but he's left his mercenaries here.
Hessians, 200 foot.
More cannon on the Battery.
A dozen 24-pounders and half as many 16-pounders.
...Canal Street.
Pits being dug every 50 yards,
three or four feet deep and lined with stakes.
No doubt to wound men who attempt a night attack.
Troop barges moored at Old Slip.
They're secured by chains and booms to keep off fire rafts.
- Hello there. Ahem. - Oh, pardon.
This isn't-- your room is the next one.
Is, uh--
is there something wrong with the eggs I've boiled for you?
No, I just--
I like my eggs warm.
( exhales )
( knocking )
( knocking )
Who is it?
Major Hewlett.
Ah, Mrs. Strong.
I was afraid it would be too late, but then I saw your light.
How can I help you, Major?
I have received a package
from Major André from Philadelphia.
I believe it to be another gift
from your former slave Abigail to her son.
Cicero is asleep now, but I'm sure he'll be very excited to receive it.
I thought to bring it personally because I have some news
which I think you'll be pleased to hear.
Yes?
Seeing you with Mrs. Woodhull's coterie made me realize anew
how difficult this ordeal must have been for you.
Forced from your home and unable to take part
in the ordinary life of the town,
all by the treachery of a man
whose name you have to drag behind you like a sea anchor.
So, I saw the judge.
And he sees no impediment to you securing a divorce.
Oh.
You can argue desertion.
I hadn't considered it yet, but here, let me--
The only caveat is that it might take more than a year.
And so in the meantime, I thought
that I might make you a proposal.
A proposal?
I of course don't mean
in the formal sense of the word.
I, um...
thought that if perhaps you might be open
to establishing a friendship.
Entirely platonic, of course.
"Play-tonic"?
Yes, owing to the ideals of Plato
that is attributed to his feelings
with the prophetess Diotima.
Feelings, he felt,
unencumbered by the base Eros,
was a surer way to the contemplation of the divine.
Major.
Yes.
Yes, of course.
I didn't mean to presume.
Uh, good night.
Major.
Abigail's gift.
Oh.
Yes, how foolish of me.
Good night.
- ( violin playing ) - ( quiet chatter )
Clinton: Ah, a whiff of civilization.
- Why, it almost reminds me of Paris. - London.
Tell me about our host in case I'm forced to converse with him.
The Shippens are the cream of Philadelphia society.
This ball is their way of welcoming us.
So clearly there can be no doubt about their loyalties?
Actually, it is a bit unclear.
Judge Shippen opposed the extension of royal authority,
at least where taxation is concerned.
But he also opposed last year's Pennsylvania constitution.
Though perhaps because it threatened his own authority
as much as the Crown's.
So is the man for us or against us?
Families such as the Shippens imagine they are above us, sir.
Well, above you, maybe.
And yet, with hair like that, they can't help but tower.
It's a miracle it doesn't topple.
- Who is-- - Margaret Shippen, their youngest.
And as for the high roll, it's the latest fashion.
Looks French to me.
Oh, there's Cornwallis.
I can't resist a chance to tweak Charlie
about how Washington foxed him at Trenton.
A pleasure, Lieutenant.
Likewise, Miss Shippen.
The very instant I saw you did my heart fly to your service.
Do you quote Shakespeare to all the ladies?
Only the ones that stir a tempest in my heart.
I think you do, for that was well-rehearsed.
( women giggling )
At least they don't kiss in the continental style.
It disorders one's high roll,
and I've already put poor Freddy through enough today.
Have a care, Peggy. You'll scare off all the eligible men.
- Freddy: She's right. - That's because to Becky all men are eligible.
And I expect when we're her age, we'll feel the same.
- Thank you, Becky. - You're welcome, Becky.
By the time I'm Miss Redman's age,
I expect to be on my second husband.
Ever the romantic.
But first you may want to find number one.
And who would you pick, Freddy, from this pool of too eager candidates?
I guess that depends on what one looks for in a man.
If I were Peggy,
I would choose someone
tall and dashing.
Maybe someone with an elegant little braid.
Then again, I'm sure our Peggy is immune
to such superficial inducements.
Why, Peggy, he didn't even smile at you.
A man immune to the charms of Margaret Shippen.
What has the world come to?
I suspect he's more Freddy's type after all.
One can dream.
It's your deal, Becky.
Age before beauty.
Youth before wisdom.
I'll deal.
Now what is that infernal man doing?
( playing up-tempo music )
Killing the ambiance, apparently.
Not so, apparently.
Major John André at your service, ladies.
What service are you offering, Major?
Why, a dance, of course.
May I have the pleasure?
May I have the pleasure, Miss Franks?
General, I heard a rumor
that you can lead a minuet as expertly as a charge.
- Is it true? - Perhaps.
But would your father approve, Miss Shippen?
Do you require his approval?
I thought you were the highest authority in this room
if not this city.
( music continues )
- ( music ends ) - ( applause )
( music resumes )
Major André.
Miss Shippen.
So you know my name after all.
I know your family quite well.
Or of them anyway.
And I know nothing of you.
Except perhaps that you asked my friend to dance
in an attempt to induce jealousy.
Do you really think women are so easily manipulated?
We're dancing, aren't we?
There's a fine line between confidence and arrogance, Major.
I'm sure you'll tell me if I cross it.
I'm reserving judgment.
Still, why not aim directly at what you're after?
When I saw you turn away other men, I knew a stratagem was called for.
If not to pique your jealousy, then at least your curiosity.
You like to play games, don't you?
As do you.
This may be a game to a man,
but to a woman, the stakes are very real.
Even to a very lovely young woman?
A woman's allure rests on her saying no.
But no matter how lovely, she can only say no for so long
or she ends up like my poor Becky, an old maid at 26.
( music ends )
You may have won this dance, Major,
but who's to say there'll be another?
Is this the fate of every man to fall under your spell?
One whirl around the dance floor and then oblivion?
How many others do you think there have been?
I won't hazard a guess, but I'm sure you entertained
some rebel officers before we came to town.
More tolerated than entertained.
What about that scamp who gave us so much trouble at Saratoga?
Benedict Arnold.
I hear he once stayed at your house.
When I was 14.
If my eyes are any judge,
I imagine he must still think of you.
Do you?
I wonder, what games are we playing now?
( music resumes )
Boccherini's minuet.
Dare I request another dance?
Just one more, perhaps.
No breakfast? You paid for it.
Uh, no. I can't, I'm afraid. Long trip back.
Best be on my way.
How about some bread for the road?
Fine.
Let's see.
Here you go.
Law studies off to a good start?
I hope so.
It's not really for me to judge.
For a man cocooned with his books,
you managed quite a sunburn.
Old habits, I suppose.
I was a farmer before I took up the law.
I thought why waste the whole of a lovely day indoors
when I could be out committing my case to memory?
Thank you.
I had a lovely stay.
And I expect I'll be back soon.
- ( chatter ) - ( seagulls screeching )
You look like the cat that ate the cream.
I think the law agrees with me.
I'm glad someone enjoyed himself.
Well, you keep dreaming of holy ground, Mr. Eastin.
Someday you'll get your just reward.
Hold on there. Need to see those bags first.
Right.
There you go.
What's this?
- Lunch. - Let's see it.
If you must.
Looks like someone's robbed the henhouse.
Can you spare a couple?
Help yourself.
Just avoid the brown ones, though. They're a little sour.
What brown ones? All right, then. Off you go.
- Hyah. Hyah. - Wait, wait, wait.
I think I left something in my room.
I don't want to risk getting caught after dark. Hey!
( panting )
Back already?
Yeah.
I think I left something in my room.
It's already been rented out.
- Oh. - You don't look well, sir.
Here you go. I still owe you breakfast.
I didn't order this.
I know, but you didn't stick to your porridge either, did you?
I wondered if you could hard-boil a dozen of these for me.
Owner: How about some bread for the road?
Abe: Fine.
( heart beating )
It was hard-boiled.
That one had a bitter taste. I couldn't serve it.
Then why did you take it in the first place?
Would you rather I had served it to that gentleman?
I'm sorry, I-- I never got your name.
The name's Townsend. Robert Townsend.
And I don't care to see you here again.
Hey, boy.
Boy.
My name ain't boy.
You calling me a liar, boy?
Oh, yeah, it's Aak-- Aak-in-balls, right?
Akinbode.
Major Rogers' pet monkey.
You and that Indian.
What was his damn name?
- Awass-hole. - Awass-hole.
Aak-in-balls and Awass-hole, that's right.
Only the Indian left when Rogers did.
But you're still here. Why are you here, boy?
I earned my place just like the rest of you.
Right.
You're good with sticks.
Take it.
Go on.
See if I don't add your scalp to my friends here.
- Man: All right, Cager. - ( chatter )
Whoa.
Well, what have we here?
If you're looking for Philadelphia,
head to the river and make a right.
- ( men laugh ) - Thank you.
But I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.
My name is Captain John Graves Simcoe
and I'm your new commander by orders of Major John André.
That's a nice hat you got there, your lordship.
But it might get a little dirty where we go.
- ( men laugh ) - Trust me,
I've no more desire to lead a provincial force
than you have to serve under a royal officer.
These are my orders and yours are to obey mine.
If you do, I promise to mold you
into the finest light infantry in the land.
Now...
let's line up and fall in.
I think what they're saying, Captain,
by not saying sod,
is why should we obey a fop
in silly togs?
I take it, then, that you already know
all there is to know about fighting.
More than you, dandelion.
Then kill me, if you can.
You worry about the consequences, I see.
But who would ever know all the way out here?
You could kill me and then stuff my body in some animal's burrow
and say you never saw me.
That is, of course, if you can kill me.
( grunts )
- ( cracks ) - ( screams )
( grunts )
- ( groans ) - Thank you.
( screams )
One more for your collection.
Now then, where were we?
No!
( groaning )
My hope, of course,
is that our lessons won't have to be repeated.
( pistol cocks )
( gunshot )
Now, let's try this again.
Fall in.
( theme music playing )