The Young Riders (1989–1992): Season 2, Episode 11 - The Play's the Thing - full transcript
Cody is asked to join a group of traveling actors, unknowingly taking part in a plot to assassinate a U.S. general.
For love.
Let's get on with it.
Only the good die young.
Oh, it was wonderful today...
Bravo!
Ah, yes, one of the better
ones, I think.
Huh?
Why don't you go inside?
Huh?
Weren't you here last night?
And the night before.
- Ma'am?
- The theater.
Go on in.
And the night before.
Another of miss St. Clair's
admirers, no doubt.
I wouldn't be so sure.
There's a light in his eyes
that only one mistress
could inspire.
Go on.
Lots of wrapping paper,
but no present.
"and the rat laughed
and laughed.
"The man in the hat sees
the cat chase the rat."
Uh-uh...
Come on, you've got find out
what happens to the rat.
I already know.
These mcguffey readers are
just full exciting tales,
ain't they?
"And the cat let out
a big meow!"
These mcguffey readers are
just full exciting tales,
ain't they?
Hey, hickok, I was just...
Rider coming.
I thought you were coming
in this morning.
I got back as quick as I could.
Ran into a couple
of army detachments
on the way back,
hey, hickok, I was just...
Forget it. It's
a stupid book anyway.
Nah, not reading
would be stupid.
Hey, my daddy used to say
a strong will can open
most any door,
but only reading
can open up the mind.
Uh-uh...
I already know.
He gets a job riding
for the pony express.
Rider coming.
What did he say?
He says you can feel it coming
like gathering clouds.
News like this, seems like
it's already here.
I thought you were coming
in this morning.
Ran into a couple
of army detachments
on the way back,
slowed me up with a
lot of questions.
About what?
About murder.
Seems someone killed
general fremont's
chief of staff
outside a theater in randsburg.
Rumor has it fremont's next.
Seems like everyday
war gets a step closer.
Nah.
"only the good die young."
Nah.
"Only the good die young."
Okay, here we go.
"Only the good die young."
Pay attention.
Now let's get on with it.
Ah, well, I ain't never seen
one of these before neither.
It's pretty fancy, though.
Are you the one who saved us?
This here is
a Henry lever action
repeating rifle.
I heard about them,
that's a lucky shot.
Nothing lucky about it.
I meant to kill him.
Ah, well, I ain't never seen
one of these before neither.
Well, well, if it isn't
our eager,
young fan.
He was going for his gun.
I meant to kill him.
Margaret's very proud
of her ability with a gun.
Well, I recognize this man.
He was at the theater
last night.
This here is
a Henry lever action
repeating rifle.
Well, I recognize this man.
He was at the theater
last night.
Didn't anyone of you
see him last night?
Well, how do you do? I'm
teaspoon hunter, the
marshal here at Sweetwater.
I'm Margaret herrick,
proprietress and director
of the troupe.
Are you the one who saved us?
Ah, yes, ma'am.
Our knight in shining armor.
The herrick traveling
theatrical ensemble,
at your service.
Actors.
Well, how do you do? I'm
teaspoon hunter, the
marshal here at Sweetwater.
Nice to meet you.
These here are the folks
I was telling you about,
teaspoon.
The herrick traveling
theatrical ensemble,
at your service.
But you see, ah,
the man who attacked you
might be involved in a
murder at randsburg.
But I didn't know
they was out yet.
The fella who owned this
was either a criminal
or a government agent.
Some would say
there's no difference.
These here are the folks
I was telling you about,
teaspoon.
Jonathan landsfield mcmasters.
I see the doc patched up
your leg pretty good.
I'm Margaret herrick,
proprietress and director
of the troupe.
This is my husband, Edmund,
miss Jenny St. Clair, and...
But the killer might think
one of you saw something.
If I was you Mrs. Herrick,
I'd lay low for a while.
Where exactly are you
folks from, anyway?
Atlanta, originally, though we
haven't be home
for more than a year.
Our mission is to bring
culture to the territories.
This is my husband, Edmund,
miss Jenny St. Clair, and...
Jonathan landsfield mcmasters.
Where exactly are you
folks from, anyway?
Jonathan Ridgefield mcmasters.
No!
Jonathan has been searching
for a proper stage name
for some time now.
We're hoping he finds it, but
so far there haven't been
any positive signs.
Our mission is to bring
culture to the territories.
And a noble mission it is,
too, ma'am.
I suspect that's a pretty
painful way to go.
But you see, ah,
My god!
Why?
Army thinks he may have been
southern sympathizers.
And a noble mission it is,
too, ma'am.
Can you think of any
reason someone would try
to kill you because of it?
These are perilous times.
But we take heart in the adage
that nothing can kill an actor
but bad reviews.
I suspect that's a pretty
painful way to go.
Army thinks he may have been
southern sympathizers.
But why would the killer want
to, ah, follow us?
The man who attacked you
might be involved in a
murder at randsburg.
A murder?
General fremont's
chief of staff was killed.
My god!
Well, the show
must go on, right?
Exactly, Mr. Cody.
Exactly.
Jonathan teaspoon richfield.
But why would the killer want
to, ah, follow us?
The chief of staff was killed
in the theater,
it's hard to say.
But the killer might think
one of you saw something.
Looks like a dying fish
at the bottom of a boat.
If I was you Mrs. Herrick,
I'd lay low for a while.
Well, thank you for
your concern, marshal hunter,
but I think not.
Well, the show
must go on, right?
Jonathan teaspoon richfield.
Jonathan...
I just can't do it.
Not until my leg heals.
Then who are we going to get
to take your place?
For love.
Let's get on with it.
I just can't do it.
Looks like a dying fish
at the bottom of a boat.
This is a political bombshell
waiting to explode.
I want you
to find the herricks,
gather evidence,
and either bring them in
or send them to hell.
No, you leave now.
The herricks have been
a Thorn in our side
for more than a year.
Coombs isn't the first
man who failed to stop them,
then you know what to do.
I leave for Sweetwater
within the hour.
No, you leave now.
Come on, Mr. Cody,
remember what I told you.
You've got to believe it.
Coombs missed the rendezvous.
And the herricks?
They've moved into Sweetwater.
My guess is coombs
got too close.
Then you know what to do.
And either bring them in
or send them to hell.
- I'll do my best.
- You do what it takes.
This is a political bombshell
waiting to explode.
Coombs isn't the first
man who failed to stop them,
but, I want him to be the last.
- I'll do my best.
- You do what it takes.
I am just having a hard time
pretending to be scared.
I got folks watching me,
things falling on the ground.
Along with anyone else
who's helping them.
For love...
And a duel is when two gents
are going for the same...
Excuse me,
I'm trying to act here.
What am I, Mr. Cody?
An actress? A director?
Or a killer?
You've got to believe it.
Sorry.
Let's take it again
from the top.
Now, this is the duel part now.
And a duel is when two gents
are going for the same...
Things falling on the ground.
I mean how am I supposed
to fear for my own life
when I know the gun
being pointed at me
ain't even real?
Oh, I'm sorry, Mrs. Herrick.
I am just having a hard time
pretending to be scared.
For love...
Let's get on with it...
I know that. But, at the time
it seems to me
like he deserved it.
What if he didn't?
What if I had a reason
why I killed him?
A cause.
I'll bet'cha... opening night,
Cody will not know
a single line.
And with that woman...
I killed a man yesterday,
Mr. Cody.
I know that. But, at the time
it seems to me
like he deserved it.
When I know the gun
being pointed at me
ain't even real?
Suppose it was real?
But it ain't.
Now, it is.
Mrs. Herrick.
I killed a man yesterday,
Mr. Cody.
Meaningless.
Well, then I guess i'd
be in a whole lot of trouble.
But, I'm not, am I?
What if I had a reason
why I killed him?
A cause.
A belief burning inside of me
that made the taking
of that man's life,
your life,
An actor believes,
Mr. Cody.
Isn't there a single part of you
that believes I might
just pull the trigger?
What am I, Mr. Cody?
An actress? A director?
I don't know.
An actor believes,
Mr. Cody.
That believes I might
just pull the trigger?
Yes!
- Bang!
- No!
I'll bet'cha... opening night,
Cody will not know
a single line.
If you believe in something,
it's real.
And nothing can get
in the way of what you
believe.
Cody's gonna learn awful fast
with a teacher like that.
Oh, a friend of mine
got caught in the middle
of a thunderstorm.
A gun like that
was causing all of
the lightning.
A friend of yours, huh?
Uh, I noticed it
from across the street.
Funny how the
world works, ain't it?
A fine rifle you got there.
Uh, I noticed it
from across the street.
And this is the second
one I've seen today.
Where did you see the first?
Oh, a friend of mine
got caught in the middle
of a thunderstorm.
Funny how the
world works, ain't it?
I never set eyes on a rifle
like that in my whole life,
and this is the second
one I've seen today.
Where did you see the first?
Oh, a friend of mine
got caught in the middle
of a thunderstorm.
I'll make you a deal.
You just stay out of my way
and when I can I'll tell you
everything I know.
Why don't you just tell me now?
A friend of yours, huh?
I'd like to meet him.
Well, I'll pass the word along.
So, uh, where do you get
a gun like that, anyway?
I'll make you a deal.
Why don't you just tell me now?
Because right now I'm not sure
what side you're on.
He's a madman.
Well, kiss her again!
If you don't have the money
by 5:00 this afternoon,
the old homestead is mine.
Well, kiss her again!
I am trying to believe,
but they are making it
extremely difficult.
And so are you.
It was you who
caused my father to go
bankrupt.
You killed him! Now there's...
Nothing can get in the
way of what you believe.
I beg you for your mercy.
I'll be back.
Cody!
Only the good die young.
I am trying to believe,
but they are making it
extremely difficult.
Do you want Mrs. Herrick
to get out
your gun again?
You don't know how long
I've waited for this moment.
For love.
Let's get on with it.
You don't know how long
I've waited for this moment.
I can't get over how good
Cody is.
It's like he was born to
the stage.
You mustn't think that way.
Cody!
A toast to tonight's success.
And to the success of the
confederacy.
Uh-huh.
Only the good die young.
A toast to tonight's success.
Here's to William f. Cody,
rising star, sure shot,
and unwitting assassin.
And, besides, there's
no better place than
fort laramie for him to die.
Oh, surely we are not going on
with our plan now that
they are on to us.
The man who was following
us is dead.
Uh-huh.
I have more good news for you.
General fremont will be
in fort laramie
two days from now.
I was disappointed
to find you absent
from the play last night.
Well, yes, well, a bum leg.
I ran into some trouble
on the trail.
Killing his chief of staff
probably convinced him to go.
And, besides, there's
no better place than
fort laramie for him to die.
General fremont will be
in fort laramie
two days from now.
I was sure our last attempt
would have scared him off.
With his ego?
Killing his chief of staff
probably convinced him to go.
Alive perhaps.
But dead, he's proof
that we can strike
anywhere, any time.
We're acting like bushwhackers.
That's what the redcoats said
to the American patriots.
The man who was following
us is dead.
And the town thinks he
attacked us.
But is general fremont
worth the risk?
I mean, he's not that important.
Alive perhaps.
And with our new star,
avoidable.
Here's to William f. Cody,
rising star, sure shot,
the only important thing
is to win.
There is no
substitute for victory.
Aren't you Jonathan
bainbridge wilkenson,
the actor?
Uh, yes. Uh, yes, I am.
I saw you perform in
Saint Jo. Very impressive.
There is no
substitute for victory.
Uh, it's suicide.
It's perfect.
And with our new star,
avoidable.
I saw you perform in
Saint Jo. Very impressive.
I was disappointed
to find you absent
from the play last night.
Well, nice to meet you,
Mr. Eastman. What brings you
to Sweetwater?
Let's just say I follow
the theater.
You're a reviewer?
And unwitting assassin.
Jonathan bainbridge wilkenson?
Aren't you Jonathan
bainbridge wilkenson,
the actor?
And thespian.
Who you calling a thespian?
Cody, right?
William f. Cody.
Pony express rider, marksman,
The kind that needs to be
done here instead of
in apple creek.
It was a pleasure to meet you.
I ran into some trouble
on the trail.
Allow me to introduce you
to my replacement.
Temporary, of course.
I don't think so. I've got
some business to attend to
here in Sweetwater.
And what business might that be?
I didn't get your name.
Eastman.
Well, nice to meet you,
Mr. Eastman. What brings you
to Sweetwater?
Temporary, of course.
William f. Cody.
Cody, right?
Yeah, that's right.
I didn't get your name.
And what business might that be?
The kind that needs to be
done here instead of
in apple creek.
"The palefaces are masters
of the earth
"and the time of the red men
has not yet come again.
"My day has been too long
and yet, before the night
has come,
you're a reviewer?
In a manner of speaking.
Looks like you're packing up.
You're not leaving, are you?
Yes, uh, tonight
for apple creek.
Perhaps you could
make our show there.
If you'll excuse me.
The first rule of the theater...
Always treat the press
with respect!
Hark! Me thinks I see
yon Cody.
May I please have your
autograph, Mr. Cody,
or maybe, maybe a picture to
hang, since you're
never around.
I ain't so sure he's the press.
And I ain't so sure
he deserves my respect.
The first rule of the theater...
And I ain't so sure
he deserves my respect.
"The palefaces are masters
of the earth
always treat the press
with respect!
Yeah, well, let me tell
you something, Jonathan.
"Have I lived to see the last
warrior of the wise race
of the mohicans."
It's a pretty sad story you
brought me.
Yeah, well, at least it's more
exciting than "the cat
and the rat."
Besides, this will do you good
to broaden your horizons.
Having to do your job.
That's what's eating us.
Yeah, well, I don't
recall asking you
for no favors, Noah.
"My day has been too long
and yet, before the night
has come,
"have I lived to see the last
warrior of the wise race
of the mohicans."
Well, enough things happen in
my life
where I gotta worry about
what's gonna happen next.
Ain't often I can skip
the anticipating and get
on with it.
Me, too. I had to
double up yesterday.
Yeah, well, I've done it twice.
Since when is doing
Cody's job part of our...
Hark! Me thinks I see
yon Cody.
Besides, this will do you good
to broaden your horizons.
Yeah, Jimmy, especially if you
read more than the last page.
Well, enough things happen in
my life
Getting Cody back to work.
Me, too. I had to
double up yesterday.
Ain't often I can skip
the anticipating and get
on with it.
Yeah, well, I'll tell you what
I'd like to get on with.
Yeah, well, I don't
recall asking you
for no favors, Noah.
That's right, you didn't. But,
see, I've been doing them
for you anyway.
Cody, each of us has had to
pick up an extra run 'cause
you're out on vacation.
What's eating all of you?
Having to do your job.
That's what's eating us.
Look, I'm sorry for letting
you all down.
Or maybe, maybe a picture to
hang, since you're
never around.
It ain't no vacation.
It's hard work.
Yeah? Well, you already
got a job, Cody.
'Cause I'm thinking
of going with them.
You were in randsburg
for three days and you
may as well still be there.
Cody, each of us has had to
pick up an extra run 'cause
you're out on vacation.
Well...
Thanks for covering for me.
Those actors are leaving
tomorrow afternoon anyway.
Yeah? Well, you already
got a job, Cody.
And you got responsibilities
to go along with it.
You were in randsburg
for three days and you
may as well still be there.
Well, you might have to get by
longer than that, Jimmy.
Now, that ain't it at all.
It's, uh... it's just that...
Look, I'm sorry for letting
you all down.
I just got all caught up
in this acting thing and...
Well...
Those actors are leaving
tomorrow afternoon anyway.
I'm sure we can get by
until then.
Well, you might have to get by
longer than that, Jimmy.
Boy said you wanted
to see me, teaspoon?
Cody, I'm glad
you could come by.
What could I know about acting?
Cody, I'm glad
you could come by.
Sit down, I'd like to
have a little chat
with you.
Well, I'd love to, teaspoon,
but I gotta get to rehearsal.
Uh, I understand you're
thinking about hitching your
wagon to that acting troupe
kind of permanent-like.
It seems a man can't even
cross the street around here
uh, I understand you're
thinking about hitching your
wagon to that acting troupe
well, I'd love to, teaspoon,
but I gotta get to rehearsal.
I don't think they'd mind
if you was a little late.
Son, I don't wanna see you
up and change your life
without being sure
what you're getting into.
Teaspoon,
it seems a man can't even
cross the street around here
without somebody asking
if it's the right thing to do.
Now, that ain't it at all.
It's, uh... it's just that...
I spent many a night
in the theater,
a long time ago.
Did you end up marrying her?
No.
She was the one that got away.
As a matter of fact, that is it.
Son, I don't wanna see you
up and change your life
But what could you
possibly know about acting?
What could I know about acting?
Teaspoon,
I don't mean to be
disrespectful,
Falling in love.
She was a shakespearean actress.
First off, never go no place
without a holy Bible and
a copy of William Shakespeare.
There's enough going on in
those two volumes
to keep a dead man
on the edge of his seat.
Consider it done.
I spent many a night
in the theater,
a long time ago.
Do you believe that?
Yeah, I can.
Did you end up marrying her?
Acting?
No.
Falling in love.
She was a shakespearean actress.
One of the most famous of
her time.
The most beautiful woman
I had ever seen.
I stood by her
stage door for two weeks,
'til she'd talk to me.
Do you believe that?
Anyway, she taught me
two things.
Only two?
Only two that a young man
like you should know about.
Well, the more you put
into your craft, the more
you get out of it.
She taught me that
an actor brings to
his best performances
all the experiences of his life.
But while we was together...
Lordie lord.
All the experiences of his life.
All the living he's really done.
But the problem is,
only two that a young man
like you should know about.
First off, never go no place
without a holy Bible and
a copy of William Shakespeare.
I think I just figured
out what your problem is.
Listen to me.
Consider it done.
More important,
she taught me that
an actor brings to
his best performances
You start looking back
like that,
it seems to me it gets
harder to look forward.
I know it, Cody, and I
imagine she's right.
I just... I just want you
to be sure, son.
You start looking back
like that,
it seems to me it gets
harder to look forward.
Mrs. Herrick says I got a
lot of potential, teaspoon.
I know it, Cody, and I
imagine she's right.
You know, for such a
pretty girl,
you got a ugly way about you.
I just... I just want you
to be sure, son.
Sure you're ready
to concentrate on where
you've been
instead of where you're going.
I'll remember that, teaspoon.
I sorta figured you'd
know your lines by now.
It's like nothing I've
ever felt before.
I love it.
You sound like Mrs.
Herrick.
Yes, well, you would
know, wouldn't you?
You know, for such a
pretty girl,
Oh! "Mrs. Herrick" this, "Mrs.
herrick" that! Do you ever
think for yourself?
Listen to me.
I am a damn fine actress
and I have been studying
with Mrs. Herrick
are you seriously
considering joining
the troupe?
Why not?
Mrs. Herrick says...
Oh! "Mrs. Herrick" this, "Mrs.
herrick" that! Do you ever
think for yourself?
I am a damn fine actress
and I have been studying
with Mrs. Herrick
for three years now!
And... and you...
And you're afraid.
It's just like you said.
It's like nothing I've
ever felt before.
When I am up there on
that stage,
in front of that audience,
and you're afraid.
You're afraid that she's
gonna start giving me
all the attention
and you are jealous
of all the time she's
been spending with me.
When I am up there on
that stage,
The point is...
That you don't gotta worry
about Mrs. Herrick
forgetting you.
Marshal hunter,
I wondered if I could
speak with you?
Well, sure. Uh, sure.
Have a seat.
I love it.
But I need your help, Jenny.
Marshal hunter,
I wondered if I could
speak with you?
You truly are
a fine actress, Jenny.
She's too smart for that.
Well, ma'am, you never know,
but like you said, these are
perilous times, and
it wouldn't be exaggerating
to say that bad luck seems
to be dogging your trail.
Well, sure. Uh, sure.
Have a seat.
And, uh, just call me
teaspoon, if you like.
You really like acting,
don't you?
It's growing on me.
All right, teaspoon.
I came by to seek
some professional advice.
Well, I'm flattered.
With a man like him in
our midst, wouldn't you?
You know, up until today I was
wondering why you quit
acting.
But now I see you haven't.
See, my troupe and I are
leaving Sweetwater tomorrow
for apple creek,
and I'd like to know
if you think our journey
and, uh, just call me
teaspoon, if you like.
All right, teaspoon.
I came by to seek
some professional advice.
It wouldn't be exaggerating
to say that bad luck seems
to be dogging your trail.
No, it wouldn't.
A couple of, uh well,
attractive women like
yourself and miss Saint Clair
well, I'm flattered.
Uh, I just hope
I can be of assistance.
See, my troupe and I are
leaving Sweetwater tomorrow
for apple creek,
is liable to be
as eventful as our last.
Well, ma'am, you never know,
but like you said, these are
perilous times, and
and I'd like to know
if you think our journey
is liable to be
as eventful as our last.
And one of your men
hamstrung like he is...
Do you think, uh, we'd be
safer with another man along?
I really do.
Your blessing.
Good day, teaspoon.
That's right.
I heard about that.
A couple of, uh well,
attractive women like
yourself and miss Saint Clair
and one of your men
hamstrung like he is...
I heard about that.
I should think we would
be much safer
with a man like him in
our midst, wouldn't you?
I really do.
Well, Mr. Cody has
expressed an interest
in joining us.
What role are you
playing now, Mrs. Herrick?
I'm shaping the future,
teaspoon.
I can change
Mr. Cody's life.
Well, I don't doubt that.
He's a grown man, teaspoon.
You be sure to thank
Rachel for me.
Son,
but now I see you haven't.
We all have roles to play.
What role are you
playing now, Mrs. Herrick?
Don't deny him the one
thing he wants
more than anything else.
And what would that be?
He's a grown man, teaspoon.
And he sees an opportunity
that he may never have again.
He wants to come with us.
Don't deny him the one
thing he wants
more than anything else.
You boys take him
to doc Barnes and don't
let him out of your sight.
He was carrying the same gun
as that man that bushwhacked
Mrs. Herrick and the others
good day, ma'am.
Well, I don't wanna get
all sappy,
but I sure am gonna miss
all of you.
Uh, Rachel fixed you
something to tide you
over until the next stop.
He said he was gonna kill us.
He attacked us.
Who is he?
He said his name was
eastman, but I didn't
trust him, teaspoon.
I think he's dead.
Come here, son.
Son,
you take care of yourself
out there.
I don't think I got
much else to worry about,
teaspoon.
I think he's dead.
No, it's just a crease,
but he'll be out for a while.
You boys take him
to doc Barnes and don't
let him out of your sight.
And they killed that officer
back in randsburg.
Well, the only way
we're gonna clear this up
is to wait for him to come to.
Uh, unfortunately, uh,
we have a schedule to meet.
He attacked us.
He said he was
gonna kill us all.
Who is he?
If the story he tells you is a
good one,
I trust you'll come
to apple creek
and fill us in.
Well, we'll see.
They must be stopped.
Why?
Who are you?
He was carrying the same gun
as that man that bushwhacked
Mrs. Herrick and the others
outside of town.
I know. I tried to get him
to tell me about it,
but he wouldn't.
Well, I got a good feeling
he was working
with that other fellow
and they killed that officer
back in randsburg.
Uh, unfortunately, uh,
we have a schedule to meet.
If the story he tells you is a
good one,
Thank you.
Cody...
We got a long ride
ahead of us, teaspoon.
Come here, son.
We should cut our losses
and disappear right now.
Ride safe, son.
You're from Washington,
ain't you?
The herricks are
assassins for the confederacy.
The herricks, where are they?
Now hold on. You took a bullet
a little too close
for comfort.
They must be stopped.
Oh, the, the herricks.
The coat.
Sewn in the lining.
There's a more sensible place
for us to head.
Yeah, where's that?
Fort laramie.
Hold on. It's gonna be a
little while before you ride,
I'll tell you.
You don't understand.
They must be stopped.
Well, then,
We should cut our losses
and disappear right now.
Nonsense.
Damn it, Margaret, when that
agent comes to, they are gonna
head straight for us.
The herricks are
assassins for the confederacy.
They've spied, murdered...
They tried to kill
general fremont.
They're headed for apple creek.
Hold on. It's gonna be a
little while before you ride,
I'll tell you.
Well, then,
I guess I'll have to stop them.
My husband points out
that considering the distance
we still are from apple creek
and the sparse attendance
at our show the last time
we were there,
there's a more sensible place
for us to head.
Damn it, Margaret, when that
agent comes to, they are gonna
head straight for us.
Wrong. They'll be heading
for apple creek.
There's been a change
in our itinerary.
My husband points out
look at me.
There is a dueling field
out there, Mr. Cody.
I got this from the printers.
You were right, teaspoon.
The actors lied about going
to apple creek.
They were headed
for fort laramie all along.
Look at me.
Look at me.
There he is.
They were headed
for fort laramie all along.
Let's get to laramie.
Let's go.
A hand, Mr. Cody.
Do you believe it can
pull the trigger?
A body, Mr. Cody.
Every audience is the same,
my friend.
Yeah? Well, this one's got
an awful lot of blue in it.
Do you believe
that someone will die
in this building tonight?
Yes.
Mr. Cody, after tonight,
no one will forget your name.
General fremont.
Every audience is the same,
my friend.
There is a dueling field
out there, Mr. Cody.
There's danger in the air.
But you must believe.
Can you smell it?
Death is in the air.
A body, Mr. Cody.
Do you believe it can die?
Do you believe
that someone will die
in this building tonight?
But you must believe.
A gun, Mr. Cody.
Do you believe it can kill?
A hand, Mr. Cody.
No, there will be no
surprises tonight.
Mr. Cody, after tonight,
no one will forget your name.
If only we could run away.
And there's your cue.
Mr. Cody, after tonight,
no one will forget your name.
Spread out and get in
any way you can.
Perhaps he will not come.
No, there will be no
surprises tonight.
Can you smell it?
I'm sorry, but without
the correct papers,
I can't...
Thank you, Jimmy.
Death is in the air.
Tonight,
It looks like a good fit. You
wanna play soldier?
I guess I just signed up.
Nobody comes in or goes out.
A man must die.
He is perfect.
It's too bad.
He would have made
a fine actor.
He'll make a better scapegoat.
If only we could run away.
For love.
Let's get on with it.
Thank you, Jimmy.
I tried to tell him what's
going on, but he
wouldn't believe me.
Well, I don't blame him.
It looks like a good fit. You
wanna play soldier?
Son, I haven't seen the play
for a year.
It's my favorite actress.
I'm sorry, but without
the correct papers,
I can't...
Put the gun down.
Nobody comes in or goes out.
Yes, sir.
Mrs. Herrick.
Mrs. Herrick!
Why did you shoot
general fremont?
What are you talking about?
Now, hold on a minute!
I believe.
Mr. Cody was not
the one who shot at you.
She's the one who shot at you.
He did it!
He shot the general!
What are you talking about?
She's the one who shot at you.
Oh, this is only the beginning.
Of what you truly believe.
I'll tell you something,
that Mrs. Herrick...
She was a better actress
than a lot of us knew.
Why did you shoot
general fremont?
The cause.
Nothing
can get in the way
Well,
is this real enough
for you now, Mr. Cody?
Jenny...
Is this real enough
for you now, Mr. Cody?
I'm just glad it's over.
Are you all right, son?
She just used me.
Cody,
I'm gonna tell you something
and I want you to pay
attention.
I'm just glad it's over.
Over?
Oh, this is only the beginning.
But when all that craziness
is over,
all this,
why couldn't I see
the truth, teaspoon?
Well, you got stars
in your eyes,
that's all.
I'll tell you something,
that Mrs. Herrick...
And I got the feeling
you're gonna be back.
Why couldn't I see
the truth, teaspoon?
I'm gonna tell you something
and I want you to pay
attention.
The country's in a big mess
right now.
I'll tell you something,
that Mrs. Herrick...
She was a better actress
than a lot of us knew.
She didn't even think I
could act, did she?
She just used me.
Teaspoon, what's gonna happen
when the war comes?
God only knows, son.
The country's in a big mess
right now.
War's on the horizon and
it's riding hard.
Will be waiting for you.
And I got the feeling
you're gonna be back.
But when all that craziness
is over,
all this,
this here,
will be waiting for you.
Teaspoon, what's gonna happen
when the war comes?
Yeah?
Yeah.
But it seems to
me we'll all be involved.
"Domestic fury and fierce
civil strife.
"Blood and destruction
shall be so in use and
dreadful objects so familiar
"that mothers shall but smile
"And let slip
the dogs of war."
"A curse
"shall light upon
the limbs of men.
"Domestic fury and fierce
civil strife.
"That mothers shall but smile
"when they behold
their infants quartered
with the hands of war.
"Cry havoc,
"and let slip
the dogs of war."
Let's get on with it.
Only the good die young.
Oh, it was wonderful today...
Bravo!
Ah, yes, one of the better
ones, I think.
Huh?
Why don't you go inside?
Huh?
Weren't you here last night?
And the night before.
- Ma'am?
- The theater.
Go on in.
And the night before.
Another of miss St. Clair's
admirers, no doubt.
I wouldn't be so sure.
There's a light in his eyes
that only one mistress
could inspire.
Go on.
Lots of wrapping paper,
but no present.
"and the rat laughed
and laughed.
"The man in the hat sees
the cat chase the rat."
Uh-uh...
Come on, you've got find out
what happens to the rat.
I already know.
These mcguffey readers are
just full exciting tales,
ain't they?
"And the cat let out
a big meow!"
These mcguffey readers are
just full exciting tales,
ain't they?
Hey, hickok, I was just...
Rider coming.
I thought you were coming
in this morning.
I got back as quick as I could.
Ran into a couple
of army detachments
on the way back,
hey, hickok, I was just...
Forget it. It's
a stupid book anyway.
Nah, not reading
would be stupid.
Hey, my daddy used to say
a strong will can open
most any door,
but only reading
can open up the mind.
Uh-uh...
I already know.
He gets a job riding
for the pony express.
Rider coming.
What did he say?
He says you can feel it coming
like gathering clouds.
News like this, seems like
it's already here.
I thought you were coming
in this morning.
Ran into a couple
of army detachments
on the way back,
slowed me up with a
lot of questions.
About what?
About murder.
Seems someone killed
general fremont's
chief of staff
outside a theater in randsburg.
Rumor has it fremont's next.
Seems like everyday
war gets a step closer.
Nah.
"only the good die young."
Nah.
"Only the good die young."
Okay, here we go.
"Only the good die young."
Pay attention.
Now let's get on with it.
Ah, well, I ain't never seen
one of these before neither.
It's pretty fancy, though.
Are you the one who saved us?
This here is
a Henry lever action
repeating rifle.
I heard about them,
that's a lucky shot.
Nothing lucky about it.
I meant to kill him.
Ah, well, I ain't never seen
one of these before neither.
Well, well, if it isn't
our eager,
young fan.
He was going for his gun.
I meant to kill him.
Margaret's very proud
of her ability with a gun.
Well, I recognize this man.
He was at the theater
last night.
This here is
a Henry lever action
repeating rifle.
Well, I recognize this man.
He was at the theater
last night.
Didn't anyone of you
see him last night?
Well, how do you do? I'm
teaspoon hunter, the
marshal here at Sweetwater.
I'm Margaret herrick,
proprietress and director
of the troupe.
Are you the one who saved us?
Ah, yes, ma'am.
Our knight in shining armor.
The herrick traveling
theatrical ensemble,
at your service.
Actors.
Well, how do you do? I'm
teaspoon hunter, the
marshal here at Sweetwater.
Nice to meet you.
These here are the folks
I was telling you about,
teaspoon.
The herrick traveling
theatrical ensemble,
at your service.
But you see, ah,
the man who attacked you
might be involved in a
murder at randsburg.
But I didn't know
they was out yet.
The fella who owned this
was either a criminal
or a government agent.
Some would say
there's no difference.
These here are the folks
I was telling you about,
teaspoon.
Jonathan landsfield mcmasters.
I see the doc patched up
your leg pretty good.
I'm Margaret herrick,
proprietress and director
of the troupe.
This is my husband, Edmund,
miss Jenny St. Clair, and...
But the killer might think
one of you saw something.
If I was you Mrs. Herrick,
I'd lay low for a while.
Where exactly are you
folks from, anyway?
Atlanta, originally, though we
haven't be home
for more than a year.
Our mission is to bring
culture to the territories.
This is my husband, Edmund,
miss Jenny St. Clair, and...
Jonathan landsfield mcmasters.
Where exactly are you
folks from, anyway?
Jonathan Ridgefield mcmasters.
No!
Jonathan has been searching
for a proper stage name
for some time now.
We're hoping he finds it, but
so far there haven't been
any positive signs.
Our mission is to bring
culture to the territories.
And a noble mission it is,
too, ma'am.
I suspect that's a pretty
painful way to go.
But you see, ah,
My god!
Why?
Army thinks he may have been
southern sympathizers.
And a noble mission it is,
too, ma'am.
Can you think of any
reason someone would try
to kill you because of it?
These are perilous times.
But we take heart in the adage
that nothing can kill an actor
but bad reviews.
I suspect that's a pretty
painful way to go.
Army thinks he may have been
southern sympathizers.
But why would the killer want
to, ah, follow us?
The man who attacked you
might be involved in a
murder at randsburg.
A murder?
General fremont's
chief of staff was killed.
My god!
Well, the show
must go on, right?
Exactly, Mr. Cody.
Exactly.
Jonathan teaspoon richfield.
But why would the killer want
to, ah, follow us?
The chief of staff was killed
in the theater,
it's hard to say.
But the killer might think
one of you saw something.
Looks like a dying fish
at the bottom of a boat.
If I was you Mrs. Herrick,
I'd lay low for a while.
Well, thank you for
your concern, marshal hunter,
but I think not.
Well, the show
must go on, right?
Jonathan teaspoon richfield.
Jonathan...
I just can't do it.
Not until my leg heals.
Then who are we going to get
to take your place?
For love.
Let's get on with it.
I just can't do it.
Looks like a dying fish
at the bottom of a boat.
This is a political bombshell
waiting to explode.
I want you
to find the herricks,
gather evidence,
and either bring them in
or send them to hell.
No, you leave now.
The herricks have been
a Thorn in our side
for more than a year.
Coombs isn't the first
man who failed to stop them,
then you know what to do.
I leave for Sweetwater
within the hour.
No, you leave now.
Come on, Mr. Cody,
remember what I told you.
You've got to believe it.
Coombs missed the rendezvous.
And the herricks?
They've moved into Sweetwater.
My guess is coombs
got too close.
Then you know what to do.
And either bring them in
or send them to hell.
- I'll do my best.
- You do what it takes.
This is a political bombshell
waiting to explode.
Coombs isn't the first
man who failed to stop them,
but, I want him to be the last.
- I'll do my best.
- You do what it takes.
I am just having a hard time
pretending to be scared.
I got folks watching me,
things falling on the ground.
Along with anyone else
who's helping them.
For love...
And a duel is when two gents
are going for the same...
Excuse me,
I'm trying to act here.
What am I, Mr. Cody?
An actress? A director?
Or a killer?
You've got to believe it.
Sorry.
Let's take it again
from the top.
Now, this is the duel part now.
And a duel is when two gents
are going for the same...
Things falling on the ground.
I mean how am I supposed
to fear for my own life
when I know the gun
being pointed at me
ain't even real?
Oh, I'm sorry, Mrs. Herrick.
I am just having a hard time
pretending to be scared.
For love...
Let's get on with it...
I know that. But, at the time
it seems to me
like he deserved it.
What if he didn't?
What if I had a reason
why I killed him?
A cause.
I'll bet'cha... opening night,
Cody will not know
a single line.
And with that woman...
I killed a man yesterday,
Mr. Cody.
I know that. But, at the time
it seems to me
like he deserved it.
When I know the gun
being pointed at me
ain't even real?
Suppose it was real?
But it ain't.
Now, it is.
Mrs. Herrick.
I killed a man yesterday,
Mr. Cody.
Meaningless.
Well, then I guess i'd
be in a whole lot of trouble.
But, I'm not, am I?
What if I had a reason
why I killed him?
A cause.
A belief burning inside of me
that made the taking
of that man's life,
your life,
An actor believes,
Mr. Cody.
Isn't there a single part of you
that believes I might
just pull the trigger?
What am I, Mr. Cody?
An actress? A director?
I don't know.
An actor believes,
Mr. Cody.
That believes I might
just pull the trigger?
Yes!
- Bang!
- No!
I'll bet'cha... opening night,
Cody will not know
a single line.
If you believe in something,
it's real.
And nothing can get
in the way of what you
believe.
Cody's gonna learn awful fast
with a teacher like that.
Oh, a friend of mine
got caught in the middle
of a thunderstorm.
A gun like that
was causing all of
the lightning.
A friend of yours, huh?
Uh, I noticed it
from across the street.
Funny how the
world works, ain't it?
A fine rifle you got there.
Uh, I noticed it
from across the street.
And this is the second
one I've seen today.
Where did you see the first?
Oh, a friend of mine
got caught in the middle
of a thunderstorm.
Funny how the
world works, ain't it?
I never set eyes on a rifle
like that in my whole life,
and this is the second
one I've seen today.
Where did you see the first?
Oh, a friend of mine
got caught in the middle
of a thunderstorm.
I'll make you a deal.
You just stay out of my way
and when I can I'll tell you
everything I know.
Why don't you just tell me now?
A friend of yours, huh?
I'd like to meet him.
Well, I'll pass the word along.
So, uh, where do you get
a gun like that, anyway?
I'll make you a deal.
Why don't you just tell me now?
Because right now I'm not sure
what side you're on.
He's a madman.
Well, kiss her again!
If you don't have the money
by 5:00 this afternoon,
the old homestead is mine.
Well, kiss her again!
I am trying to believe,
but they are making it
extremely difficult.
And so are you.
It was you who
caused my father to go
bankrupt.
You killed him! Now there's...
Nothing can get in the
way of what you believe.
I beg you for your mercy.
I'll be back.
Cody!
Only the good die young.
I am trying to believe,
but they are making it
extremely difficult.
Do you want Mrs. Herrick
to get out
your gun again?
You don't know how long
I've waited for this moment.
For love.
Let's get on with it.
You don't know how long
I've waited for this moment.
I can't get over how good
Cody is.
It's like he was born to
the stage.
You mustn't think that way.
Cody!
A toast to tonight's success.
And to the success of the
confederacy.
Uh-huh.
Only the good die young.
A toast to tonight's success.
Here's to William f. Cody,
rising star, sure shot,
and unwitting assassin.
And, besides, there's
no better place than
fort laramie for him to die.
Oh, surely we are not going on
with our plan now that
they are on to us.
The man who was following
us is dead.
Uh-huh.
I have more good news for you.
General fremont will be
in fort laramie
two days from now.
I was disappointed
to find you absent
from the play last night.
Well, yes, well, a bum leg.
I ran into some trouble
on the trail.
Killing his chief of staff
probably convinced him to go.
And, besides, there's
no better place than
fort laramie for him to die.
General fremont will be
in fort laramie
two days from now.
I was sure our last attempt
would have scared him off.
With his ego?
Killing his chief of staff
probably convinced him to go.
Alive perhaps.
But dead, he's proof
that we can strike
anywhere, any time.
We're acting like bushwhackers.
That's what the redcoats said
to the American patriots.
The man who was following
us is dead.
And the town thinks he
attacked us.
But is general fremont
worth the risk?
I mean, he's not that important.
Alive perhaps.
And with our new star,
avoidable.
Here's to William f. Cody,
rising star, sure shot,
the only important thing
is to win.
There is no
substitute for victory.
Aren't you Jonathan
bainbridge wilkenson,
the actor?
Uh, yes. Uh, yes, I am.
I saw you perform in
Saint Jo. Very impressive.
There is no
substitute for victory.
Uh, it's suicide.
It's perfect.
And with our new star,
avoidable.
I saw you perform in
Saint Jo. Very impressive.
I was disappointed
to find you absent
from the play last night.
Well, nice to meet you,
Mr. Eastman. What brings you
to Sweetwater?
Let's just say I follow
the theater.
You're a reviewer?
And unwitting assassin.
Jonathan bainbridge wilkenson?
Aren't you Jonathan
bainbridge wilkenson,
the actor?
And thespian.
Who you calling a thespian?
Cody, right?
William f. Cody.
Pony express rider, marksman,
The kind that needs to be
done here instead of
in apple creek.
It was a pleasure to meet you.
I ran into some trouble
on the trail.
Allow me to introduce you
to my replacement.
Temporary, of course.
I don't think so. I've got
some business to attend to
here in Sweetwater.
And what business might that be?
I didn't get your name.
Eastman.
Well, nice to meet you,
Mr. Eastman. What brings you
to Sweetwater?
Temporary, of course.
William f. Cody.
Cody, right?
Yeah, that's right.
I didn't get your name.
And what business might that be?
The kind that needs to be
done here instead of
in apple creek.
"The palefaces are masters
of the earth
"and the time of the red men
has not yet come again.
"My day has been too long
and yet, before the night
has come,
you're a reviewer?
In a manner of speaking.
Looks like you're packing up.
You're not leaving, are you?
Yes, uh, tonight
for apple creek.
Perhaps you could
make our show there.
If you'll excuse me.
The first rule of the theater...
Always treat the press
with respect!
Hark! Me thinks I see
yon Cody.
May I please have your
autograph, Mr. Cody,
or maybe, maybe a picture to
hang, since you're
never around.
I ain't so sure he's the press.
And I ain't so sure
he deserves my respect.
The first rule of the theater...
And I ain't so sure
he deserves my respect.
"The palefaces are masters
of the earth
always treat the press
with respect!
Yeah, well, let me tell
you something, Jonathan.
"Have I lived to see the last
warrior of the wise race
of the mohicans."
It's a pretty sad story you
brought me.
Yeah, well, at least it's more
exciting than "the cat
and the rat."
Besides, this will do you good
to broaden your horizons.
Having to do your job.
That's what's eating us.
Yeah, well, I don't
recall asking you
for no favors, Noah.
"My day has been too long
and yet, before the night
has come,
"have I lived to see the last
warrior of the wise race
of the mohicans."
Well, enough things happen in
my life
where I gotta worry about
what's gonna happen next.
Ain't often I can skip
the anticipating and get
on with it.
Me, too. I had to
double up yesterday.
Yeah, well, I've done it twice.
Since when is doing
Cody's job part of our...
Hark! Me thinks I see
yon Cody.
Besides, this will do you good
to broaden your horizons.
Yeah, Jimmy, especially if you
read more than the last page.
Well, enough things happen in
my life
Getting Cody back to work.
Me, too. I had to
double up yesterday.
Ain't often I can skip
the anticipating and get
on with it.
Yeah, well, I'll tell you what
I'd like to get on with.
Yeah, well, I don't
recall asking you
for no favors, Noah.
That's right, you didn't. But,
see, I've been doing them
for you anyway.
Cody, each of us has had to
pick up an extra run 'cause
you're out on vacation.
What's eating all of you?
Having to do your job.
That's what's eating us.
Look, I'm sorry for letting
you all down.
Or maybe, maybe a picture to
hang, since you're
never around.
It ain't no vacation.
It's hard work.
Yeah? Well, you already
got a job, Cody.
'Cause I'm thinking
of going with them.
You were in randsburg
for three days and you
may as well still be there.
Cody, each of us has had to
pick up an extra run 'cause
you're out on vacation.
Well...
Thanks for covering for me.
Those actors are leaving
tomorrow afternoon anyway.
Yeah? Well, you already
got a job, Cody.
And you got responsibilities
to go along with it.
You were in randsburg
for three days and you
may as well still be there.
Well, you might have to get by
longer than that, Jimmy.
Now, that ain't it at all.
It's, uh... it's just that...
Look, I'm sorry for letting
you all down.
I just got all caught up
in this acting thing and...
Well...
Those actors are leaving
tomorrow afternoon anyway.
I'm sure we can get by
until then.
Well, you might have to get by
longer than that, Jimmy.
Boy said you wanted
to see me, teaspoon?
Cody, I'm glad
you could come by.
What could I know about acting?
Cody, I'm glad
you could come by.
Sit down, I'd like to
have a little chat
with you.
Well, I'd love to, teaspoon,
but I gotta get to rehearsal.
Uh, I understand you're
thinking about hitching your
wagon to that acting troupe
kind of permanent-like.
It seems a man can't even
cross the street around here
uh, I understand you're
thinking about hitching your
wagon to that acting troupe
well, I'd love to, teaspoon,
but I gotta get to rehearsal.
I don't think they'd mind
if you was a little late.
Son, I don't wanna see you
up and change your life
without being sure
what you're getting into.
Teaspoon,
it seems a man can't even
cross the street around here
without somebody asking
if it's the right thing to do.
Now, that ain't it at all.
It's, uh... it's just that...
I spent many a night
in the theater,
a long time ago.
Did you end up marrying her?
No.
She was the one that got away.
As a matter of fact, that is it.
Son, I don't wanna see you
up and change your life
But what could you
possibly know about acting?
What could I know about acting?
Teaspoon,
I don't mean to be
disrespectful,
Falling in love.
She was a shakespearean actress.
First off, never go no place
without a holy Bible and
a copy of William Shakespeare.
There's enough going on in
those two volumes
to keep a dead man
on the edge of his seat.
Consider it done.
I spent many a night
in the theater,
a long time ago.
Do you believe that?
Yeah, I can.
Did you end up marrying her?
Acting?
No.
Falling in love.
She was a shakespearean actress.
One of the most famous of
her time.
The most beautiful woman
I had ever seen.
I stood by her
stage door for two weeks,
'til she'd talk to me.
Do you believe that?
Anyway, she taught me
two things.
Only two?
Only two that a young man
like you should know about.
Well, the more you put
into your craft, the more
you get out of it.
She taught me that
an actor brings to
his best performances
all the experiences of his life.
But while we was together...
Lordie lord.
All the experiences of his life.
All the living he's really done.
But the problem is,
only two that a young man
like you should know about.
First off, never go no place
without a holy Bible and
a copy of William Shakespeare.
I think I just figured
out what your problem is.
Listen to me.
Consider it done.
More important,
she taught me that
an actor brings to
his best performances
You start looking back
like that,
it seems to me it gets
harder to look forward.
I know it, Cody, and I
imagine she's right.
I just... I just want you
to be sure, son.
You start looking back
like that,
it seems to me it gets
harder to look forward.
Mrs. Herrick says I got a
lot of potential, teaspoon.
I know it, Cody, and I
imagine she's right.
You know, for such a
pretty girl,
you got a ugly way about you.
I just... I just want you
to be sure, son.
Sure you're ready
to concentrate on where
you've been
instead of where you're going.
I'll remember that, teaspoon.
I sorta figured you'd
know your lines by now.
It's like nothing I've
ever felt before.
I love it.
You sound like Mrs.
Herrick.
Yes, well, you would
know, wouldn't you?
You know, for such a
pretty girl,
Oh! "Mrs. Herrick" this, "Mrs.
herrick" that! Do you ever
think for yourself?
Listen to me.
I am a damn fine actress
and I have been studying
with Mrs. Herrick
are you seriously
considering joining
the troupe?
Why not?
Mrs. Herrick says...
Oh! "Mrs. Herrick" this, "Mrs.
herrick" that! Do you ever
think for yourself?
I am a damn fine actress
and I have been studying
with Mrs. Herrick
for three years now!
And... and you...
And you're afraid.
It's just like you said.
It's like nothing I've
ever felt before.
When I am up there on
that stage,
in front of that audience,
and you're afraid.
You're afraid that she's
gonna start giving me
all the attention
and you are jealous
of all the time she's
been spending with me.
When I am up there on
that stage,
The point is...
That you don't gotta worry
about Mrs. Herrick
forgetting you.
Marshal hunter,
I wondered if I could
speak with you?
Well, sure. Uh, sure.
Have a seat.
I love it.
But I need your help, Jenny.
Marshal hunter,
I wondered if I could
speak with you?
You truly are
a fine actress, Jenny.
She's too smart for that.
Well, ma'am, you never know,
but like you said, these are
perilous times, and
it wouldn't be exaggerating
to say that bad luck seems
to be dogging your trail.
Well, sure. Uh, sure.
Have a seat.
And, uh, just call me
teaspoon, if you like.
You really like acting,
don't you?
It's growing on me.
All right, teaspoon.
I came by to seek
some professional advice.
Well, I'm flattered.
With a man like him in
our midst, wouldn't you?
You know, up until today I was
wondering why you quit
acting.
But now I see you haven't.
See, my troupe and I are
leaving Sweetwater tomorrow
for apple creek,
and I'd like to know
if you think our journey
and, uh, just call me
teaspoon, if you like.
All right, teaspoon.
I came by to seek
some professional advice.
It wouldn't be exaggerating
to say that bad luck seems
to be dogging your trail.
No, it wouldn't.
A couple of, uh well,
attractive women like
yourself and miss Saint Clair
well, I'm flattered.
Uh, I just hope
I can be of assistance.
See, my troupe and I are
leaving Sweetwater tomorrow
for apple creek,
is liable to be
as eventful as our last.
Well, ma'am, you never know,
but like you said, these are
perilous times, and
and I'd like to know
if you think our journey
is liable to be
as eventful as our last.
And one of your men
hamstrung like he is...
Do you think, uh, we'd be
safer with another man along?
I really do.
Your blessing.
Good day, teaspoon.
That's right.
I heard about that.
A couple of, uh well,
attractive women like
yourself and miss Saint Clair
and one of your men
hamstrung like he is...
I heard about that.
I should think we would
be much safer
with a man like him in
our midst, wouldn't you?
I really do.
Well, Mr. Cody has
expressed an interest
in joining us.
What role are you
playing now, Mrs. Herrick?
I'm shaping the future,
teaspoon.
I can change
Mr. Cody's life.
Well, I don't doubt that.
He's a grown man, teaspoon.
You be sure to thank
Rachel for me.
Son,
but now I see you haven't.
We all have roles to play.
What role are you
playing now, Mrs. Herrick?
Don't deny him the one
thing he wants
more than anything else.
And what would that be?
He's a grown man, teaspoon.
And he sees an opportunity
that he may never have again.
He wants to come with us.
Don't deny him the one
thing he wants
more than anything else.
You boys take him
to doc Barnes and don't
let him out of your sight.
He was carrying the same gun
as that man that bushwhacked
Mrs. Herrick and the others
good day, ma'am.
Well, I don't wanna get
all sappy,
but I sure am gonna miss
all of you.
Uh, Rachel fixed you
something to tide you
over until the next stop.
He said he was gonna kill us.
He attacked us.
Who is he?
He said his name was
eastman, but I didn't
trust him, teaspoon.
I think he's dead.
Come here, son.
Son,
you take care of yourself
out there.
I don't think I got
much else to worry about,
teaspoon.
I think he's dead.
No, it's just a crease,
but he'll be out for a while.
You boys take him
to doc Barnes and don't
let him out of your sight.
And they killed that officer
back in randsburg.
Well, the only way
we're gonna clear this up
is to wait for him to come to.
Uh, unfortunately, uh,
we have a schedule to meet.
He attacked us.
He said he was
gonna kill us all.
Who is he?
If the story he tells you is a
good one,
I trust you'll come
to apple creek
and fill us in.
Well, we'll see.
They must be stopped.
Why?
Who are you?
He was carrying the same gun
as that man that bushwhacked
Mrs. Herrick and the others
outside of town.
I know. I tried to get him
to tell me about it,
but he wouldn't.
Well, I got a good feeling
he was working
with that other fellow
and they killed that officer
back in randsburg.
Uh, unfortunately, uh,
we have a schedule to meet.
If the story he tells you is a
good one,
Thank you.
Cody...
We got a long ride
ahead of us, teaspoon.
Come here, son.
We should cut our losses
and disappear right now.
Ride safe, son.
You're from Washington,
ain't you?
The herricks are
assassins for the confederacy.
The herricks, where are they?
Now hold on. You took a bullet
a little too close
for comfort.
They must be stopped.
Oh, the, the herricks.
The coat.
Sewn in the lining.
There's a more sensible place
for us to head.
Yeah, where's that?
Fort laramie.
Hold on. It's gonna be a
little while before you ride,
I'll tell you.
You don't understand.
They must be stopped.
Well, then,
We should cut our losses
and disappear right now.
Nonsense.
Damn it, Margaret, when that
agent comes to, they are gonna
head straight for us.
The herricks are
assassins for the confederacy.
They've spied, murdered...
They tried to kill
general fremont.
They're headed for apple creek.
Hold on. It's gonna be a
little while before you ride,
I'll tell you.
Well, then,
I guess I'll have to stop them.
My husband points out
that considering the distance
we still are from apple creek
and the sparse attendance
at our show the last time
we were there,
there's a more sensible place
for us to head.
Damn it, Margaret, when that
agent comes to, they are gonna
head straight for us.
Wrong. They'll be heading
for apple creek.
There's been a change
in our itinerary.
My husband points out
look at me.
There is a dueling field
out there, Mr. Cody.
I got this from the printers.
You were right, teaspoon.
The actors lied about going
to apple creek.
They were headed
for fort laramie all along.
Look at me.
Look at me.
There he is.
They were headed
for fort laramie all along.
Let's get to laramie.
Let's go.
A hand, Mr. Cody.
Do you believe it can
pull the trigger?
A body, Mr. Cody.
Every audience is the same,
my friend.
Yeah? Well, this one's got
an awful lot of blue in it.
Do you believe
that someone will die
in this building tonight?
Yes.
Mr. Cody, after tonight,
no one will forget your name.
General fremont.
Every audience is the same,
my friend.
There is a dueling field
out there, Mr. Cody.
There's danger in the air.
But you must believe.
Can you smell it?
Death is in the air.
A body, Mr. Cody.
Do you believe it can die?
Do you believe
that someone will die
in this building tonight?
But you must believe.
A gun, Mr. Cody.
Do you believe it can kill?
A hand, Mr. Cody.
No, there will be no
surprises tonight.
Mr. Cody, after tonight,
no one will forget your name.
If only we could run away.
And there's your cue.
Mr. Cody, after tonight,
no one will forget your name.
Spread out and get in
any way you can.
Perhaps he will not come.
No, there will be no
surprises tonight.
Can you smell it?
I'm sorry, but without
the correct papers,
I can't...
Thank you, Jimmy.
Death is in the air.
Tonight,
It looks like a good fit. You
wanna play soldier?
I guess I just signed up.
Nobody comes in or goes out.
A man must die.
He is perfect.
It's too bad.
He would have made
a fine actor.
He'll make a better scapegoat.
If only we could run away.
For love.
Let's get on with it.
Thank you, Jimmy.
I tried to tell him what's
going on, but he
wouldn't believe me.
Well, I don't blame him.
It looks like a good fit. You
wanna play soldier?
Son, I haven't seen the play
for a year.
It's my favorite actress.
I'm sorry, but without
the correct papers,
I can't...
Put the gun down.
Nobody comes in or goes out.
Yes, sir.
Mrs. Herrick.
Mrs. Herrick!
Why did you shoot
general fremont?
What are you talking about?
Now, hold on a minute!
I believe.
Mr. Cody was not
the one who shot at you.
She's the one who shot at you.
He did it!
He shot the general!
What are you talking about?
She's the one who shot at you.
Oh, this is only the beginning.
Of what you truly believe.
I'll tell you something,
that Mrs. Herrick...
She was a better actress
than a lot of us knew.
Why did you shoot
general fremont?
The cause.
Nothing
can get in the way
Well,
is this real enough
for you now, Mr. Cody?
Jenny...
Is this real enough
for you now, Mr. Cody?
I'm just glad it's over.
Are you all right, son?
She just used me.
Cody,
I'm gonna tell you something
and I want you to pay
attention.
I'm just glad it's over.
Over?
Oh, this is only the beginning.
But when all that craziness
is over,
all this,
why couldn't I see
the truth, teaspoon?
Well, you got stars
in your eyes,
that's all.
I'll tell you something,
that Mrs. Herrick...
And I got the feeling
you're gonna be back.
Why couldn't I see
the truth, teaspoon?
I'm gonna tell you something
and I want you to pay
attention.
The country's in a big mess
right now.
I'll tell you something,
that Mrs. Herrick...
She was a better actress
than a lot of us knew.
She didn't even think I
could act, did she?
She just used me.
Teaspoon, what's gonna happen
when the war comes?
God only knows, son.
The country's in a big mess
right now.
War's on the horizon and
it's riding hard.
Will be waiting for you.
And I got the feeling
you're gonna be back.
But when all that craziness
is over,
all this,
this here,
will be waiting for you.
Teaspoon, what's gonna happen
when the war comes?
Yeah?
Yeah.
But it seems to
me we'll all be involved.
"Domestic fury and fierce
civil strife.
"Blood and destruction
shall be so in use and
dreadful objects so familiar
"that mothers shall but smile
"And let slip
the dogs of war."
"A curse
"shall light upon
the limbs of men.
"Domestic fury and fierce
civil strife.
"That mothers shall but smile
"when they behold
their infants quartered
with the hands of war.
"Cry havoc,
"and let slip
the dogs of war."