The Young Riders (1989–1992): Season 3, Episode 13 - Spies - full transcript
On the way back from a run, Kid meets an attractive woman who turns out to be a Confederate spy. Union soldiers are in hot pursuit and want a book, that contains military documents which the man in charge will kill to get his hands on. However, Kid gives rhe book to Lou, who, in a fit of jealousy, donates to the school.
St. Joseph,
St. Joseph, Missouri.
End of the line, folks.
Everybody off in St. Joe.
St. Joseph.
You worried?
Aren't you?
Everything is going just
the way we planned.
Damn it. Saunders.
No. It couldn't be!
Split up. Each man take a car.
Take this.
Meet me in ft. Kearny.
What are you doing?
Hold it right there!
Out of the way.
Hey, you!
- Stop!
- Shoot him!
Damn it, what did she look like?
Fire!
School's on fire,
bring buckets, shovels,
everybody.
School's on fire.
Oh, my god. Fire! Fire!
School's on fire!
Fire!
School's on fire.
Fire! Fire!
- Bring your buckets.
- I got it.
Get water!
Teaspoon!
Did the teacher get out?
He lives in there.
Oh, my god.
Harrison! Harrison!
Maybe he's trapped in there.
Teaspoon!
Did the teacher get out?
He lives in there.
- Bring your buckets.
- I got it.
I'm going' in.
Don't go. It's too dangerous.
All right, keep going.
He's gone. No use.
It's all over. He's dead.
There's no more we can do.
Don't go. It's too dangerous.
Coming with you, teaspoon.
Teaspoon!
He can't still be alive.
It's all over. He's dead.
There's no more we can do.
He's gone. No use.
Just let it burn.
Seneca, folks. Seneca.
That will be one dollar.
They full up over
at the way station?
No, but I'm tired of sleeping
on those hard bunks.
Seneca, folks. Seneca.
Thank you.
No, but I'm tired of sleeping
on those hard bunks.
Well, you'll sleep
comfortably tonight.
Room 211,
upstairs, end of the hall.
Seneca, folks. Seneca.
Room 211,
upstairs, end of the hall.
Thank you. Excuse me.
Oh, ma'am, I'm sorry but that
gentleman got my last room.
Oh, you must have something.
Welcome to seneca, ma'am.
Can I help you?
Yes, I'd like a room, please.
Oh, you must have something.
The stagecoach driver
said this is the
only hotel in town.
Oh, it is ma'am, ah,
but I'm sorry
there's nothing I can do.
Ma'am, don't worry.
You take my room.
Oh, that's very kind,
but I couldn't.
Thank you.
Thank you, very much.
Oh, it is ma'am, ah,
but I'm sorry
there's nothing I can do.
Ma'am, don't worry.
You take my room.
Oh, that's very kind,
but I couldn't.
No, please I have
another place to stay.
- Are you sure?
- I insist. Room 211.
Thank you.
Thank you, very much.
Here you go, ma'am.
Thank you.
Get my dollar back?
- No, no, please don't get up.
- Good evening.
I just stopped by
to inquire if you found
a place to stay.
Yes, ma'am I did.
No, no. I couldn't
impose on you again.
It wouldn't be imposing.
I'd enjoy the company, please.
I'm Margaret Calhoun.
Pleased to meet you.
Folks call me kid.
Pardon me.
- No, no, please don't get up.
- Good evening.
Good.
You were a godsend today.
I don't know how to thank you.
Well, I'd consider
the debt paid if you
joined me for supper.
No, no. I couldn't
impose on you again.
Yes, ma'am I did.
Good.
You were a godsend today.
I don't know how to thank you.
I've ridden through
ft. Kearny quite a few
times on my express runs.
A nice place.
I'm looking for a young woman...
Uh... i, um, have some
family business there.
Pleased to meet you.
Folks call me kid.
Ah, the hotel clerk
said that you worked
for the pony express.
That's right.
Rock creek's my home station.
Is that anywhere
near ft. Kearny?
There's a bunch of us
who ride for the express.
We've been out in these parts
only a short time.
- Is that where you're headed,
ft. Kearny?
- Yes, yes it is.
Oh, that's quite a
distance to be traveling,
especially on the stage.
Is that anywhere
near ft. Kearny?
No, but you pass through
it on the way.
- Is that where you're headed,
ft. Kearny?
- Yes, yes it is.
There was one that came in
on the stage today.
I put her upstairs in room 211.
There's a bunch of us
who ride for the express.
Oh, that's quite a
distance to be traveling,
especially on the stage.
I've ridden through
ft. Kearny quite a few
times on my express runs.
Uh... i, um, have some
family business there.
Ah, it must be awfully
important to travel that far.
They had trouble
keeping the station
open there.
Is something wrong?
Oh, no. I was just thinking
how romantic that sounds.
Ah, it must be awfully
important to travel that far.
There was one that came in
on the stage today.
Oh, no. I was just thinking
how romantic that sounds.
Really?
Kid, uh, do you read any poetry?
Uh, sometimes.
We've been out in these parts
only a short time.
We used to be in Sweetwater,
but the company moved
us to rock creek.
They had trouble
keeping the station
open there.
Kid, uh, do you read any poetry?
I want you to have it as a
token of my gratitude.
Thank you.
Really?
Oh, if you're looking
for that young lady,
she, she mentioned
she was going to have her
supper in the dining room.
Pardon me.
Here, I think you'd like this.
I want you to have it as a
token of my gratitude.
Why, thank you,
very much, ma'am.
Oh, oh, my, I...
I'm really feeling
faint all of a sudden.
- A good night's rest
is all I need.
- I'll see you to your room.
No, no I insist.
You have your supper,
thank you.
She, she mentioned
she was going to have her
supper in the dining room.
Why, thank you,
very much, ma'am.
No, no I insist.
You have your supper,
thank you.
I'm really feeling
faint all of a sudden.
Oh, if you'll excuse me.
It's nothing to
be concerned about.
I assure you.
- A good night's rest
is all I need.
- I'll see you to your room.
Excuse me.
Was there a
young lady sitting with you?
- Yes, there was.
- Where is she?
Yes, she was sitting
over there at that table.
Look out back.
I'll check the street.
- Yes, there was.
- Where is she?
Why do you wanna know?
That's a military matter.
Now, where'd she go?
She said she wasn't
feeling well and
decided to excuse herself.
All right, settle down! Quiet!
That's enough talk.
It's time to vote.
All those in favor
of a special tax
What's that?
- A book a woman gave me.
- A woman?
All right, settle down! Quiet!
All those in favor
of a special tax
to rebuild the schoolhouse,
vote, aye.
The "ayes" have it.
What sense does it make to
build a new schoolhouse?
We ain't even got a teacher?
Don't worry I have notices
in every paper between here
and St. Joe.
Teaspoon, we'll need books too.
There must be plenty of
books right here in town.
Why don't we just take up
a collection for the kids
to use till new ones get here?
Good idea, Noah.
Rachel will you handle that?
Aye!
- Those opposed?
- No!
The "ayes" have it.
Teaspoon, we'll need books too.
All the school's books
burned in the fire.
There must be plenty of
books right here in town.
Rider coming!
Teaspoon, we'll need books too.
All the school's books
burned in the fire.
There must be plenty of
books right here in town.
Then there's no further
business I declare
this meeting adjourned.
Good idea, Noah.
Rachel will you handle that?
I'd be glad to.
Then there's no further
business I declare
this meeting adjourned.
Rider coming!
- Hey!
- Hey!
- How's your ride?
- Oh, it was good.
We missed you around here.
It was terrible, kid.
The schoolhouse
exploded in flames.
Didn't it, Cody?
It's one of the worst fires
I ever saw.
Wasn't nothing we could
do about it.
On the way back
from my run I stopped off
at the seneca hotel.
I thought I'd sleep
in one of the...
It was terrible, kid.
The schoolhouse
exploded in flames.
I thought I'd sleep
in one of the...
"How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways."
Wasn't nothing we could
do about it.
That's a shame about
Mr. Harrison.
What's that?
Thank you, kid.
Mmm, I never should've
doubted you.
The hotel I stayed at ran out
of rooms and an old lady...
"How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways."
Must have been a very
interesting trip there, kid.
Cody.
- It's a present for you.
- A present?
Must have been a very
interesting trip there, kid.
Those are love poems.
Why did some
woman give you that?
Oh, come on, Lou,
you make it sound
like something happened.
Sounds like it to me, kid.
You're not helping much, Cody.
What am I supposed to think?
Cody.
The hotel I stayed at ran out
of rooms and an old lady...
That's right. I wouldn't
even have took it if,
I didn't think you'd like it.
- It's a present for you.
- A present?
Yeah, the hotel I stayed at...
Thank you, kid.
Thank you, for the
donation, sir.
The school appreciates it.
Get back to work, Jesse.
All right, everybody.
Grab hold. We'll raise her.
An old lady gave you that?
That's right. I wouldn't
even have took it if,
I didn't think you'd like it.
Horses ready?
Yeah.
Thank you, for the
donation, sir.
The school appreciates it.
All right,
on the count of three.
All right, everybody.
Grab hold. We'll raise her.
Two.
- Don't bother, you're busy.
- Ah, I'm never too busy to
say good bye to you.
One.
All right,
on the count of three.
Ah, stop it.
Three!
Yeah, yeah, come on, come on!
I got to head back.
Get ready for my run.
- I'll go with you.
- Ah.
- Don't bother, you're busy.
- Ah, I'm never too busy to
say good bye to you.
Who are you?
Hello, kid.
Margaret, what are you
doing here?
I just stopped by
on the way to ft. Kearny.
I realized no one was here
so I let myself in
so I could write you a note.
How do you two know each other?
Ah, we don't really.
We met in seneca
the other day.
We're over at
the school raising.
You ought to come see it.
I'd love to.
Ah, we don't really.
We met in seneca
the other day.
Kid, was kind enough to
give me his hotel room.
Oh, so you're the one
who gave him
that book of poems, then.
Yes, yes, I did.
I hope you're enjoying it.
Lou!
Did I say something wrong?
No.
Come on, I'll walk you
over to the hotel.
Oh, can I trouble you for a
small favor first?
Yes, yes, I did.
I hope you're enjoying it.
Well, I'm sure you all have
a lot to talk about,
if you'll excuse me.
- Sure.
- There's a poem in that book
that I'm particularly fond of.
May I borrow it so I may write
a copy for myself?
I can get it to you
later, though.
- You won't forget?
- Promise.
Okay.
Well, I'm sure you all have
a lot to talk about,
if you'll excuse me.
Well, I don't have it,
right now.
I can get it to you
later, though.
Oh, can I trouble you for a
small favor first?
- Sure.
- There's a poem in that book
that I'm particularly fond of.
Well, you never told me
what you were going to do
in ft. Kearny?
Oh, it's just family business.
I won't bore you
with the details.
Oh, it couldn't be that boring
what with soldiers
chasing you.
Well, you haven't seen
them around here, have you?
Are you in...
Are you in some kind
of trouble, Margaret?
Oh, it couldn't be that boring
what with soldiers
chasing you.
What soldiers?
The hotel the other night.
They came looking for
you right after you left.
Only now,
they're trying to kill me.
The hotel the other night.
They came looking for
you right after you left.
Well, you haven't seen
them around here, have you?
Are you in...
Are you in some kind
of trouble, Margaret?
Now, I might be able to help.
They murdered my husband.
Those soldiers?
No, their commander,
captain Saunders.
Now, I might be able to help.
They murdered my husband.
My husband caught them
cheating at cards.
Then the next night,
Saunders shot him.
I told the sheriff,
but Saunders
denied everything.
And, his men backed him up.
No, their commander,
captain Saunders.
What happened?
My husband caught them
cheating at cards.
"But, soft, what light
through yonder window breaks,
"it is the east
and Juliet is the song..."
Then the next night,
Saunders shot him.
I saw it but
he didn't realize it.
I told the sheriff,
but Saunders
denied everything.
Only now,
they're trying to kill me.
Oh, I thought if I ran
far enough he'd stop.
Shh...
Come on,
let's get you to your room.
Appreciate you
letting us store these books
at your office, teaspoon.
Oh, glad I could help.
Come on,
let's get you to your room.
I think we have the beginnings
of a real fine library
for the school.
"But, soft, what light
through yonder window breaks,
- Well, I might give it a try.
- You should.
You know that's
the great thing about reading.
"It is the east
and Juliet is the song..."
William Shakespeare.
Oh, glad I could help.
I think we have the beginnings
of a real fine library
for the school.
Bet you'd love it.
It was my favorite
when I was younger.
For months all I could dream
of was being shipwrecked
on a deserted island.
- Well, I might give it a try.
- You should.
Oh, this here's, ah,
Robinson crusoe.
Ain't he that fellow
that got stuck on the island?
Yes, oh, it's wonderful.
Oh?
The pay ain't much
but the hours are decent.
You'd be perfect.
You know that's
the great thing about reading.
Just by turning the page
you can be in another
country, in another time.
How could I teach school
when I hardly had any myself?
Well, education isn't
where you learned,
it's what you know.
Oh, this here's, ah,
Robinson crusoe.
The pay ain't much
but the hours are decent.
You'd be perfect.
What are you talking about?
Being the new schoolmarm.
- Me?
- Yeah.
Yes, oh, it's wonderful.
Bet you'd love it.
It was my favorite
when I was younger.
Well, you got more education
teaching yourself than most
people I know went to college.
But it takes training
to be a teacher.
I wouldn't know
where to start with students.
Just by turning the page
you can be in another
country, in another time.
I love books. Can you tell?
You know, I got the job for you.
I wouldn't know
where to start with students.
Start where you
started with yourself.
Find something that
they're curious about
and let that work for you.
Well...
Well, let's face it,
teaspoon, I'm not exactly
the schoolmarm type.
Well,
believe me,
you'll do just fine.
- Me?
- Yeah.
No, I couldn't do that.
Oh, sure you could.
How could I teach school
when I hardly had any myself?
Well, education isn't
where you learned,
it's what you know.
Well, you got more education
teaching yourself than most
people I know went to college.
Well,
believe me,
you'll do just fine.
Well, why would they?
Well, let's face it,
teaspoon, I'm not exactly
the schoolmarm type.
I'd be willing to
give it a try
if folks didn't object.
Well, why would they?
Well, then I wouldn't mind
meeting her myself.
Excuse me.
Why you so anxious
to catch up with her?
No running in the street, now.
Hold on. Hold on.
I've never seen her.
I'd been told
she's about twenty-five,
red hair, quite attractive.
What kind of book?
I don't have it.
What did you do with it?
I gave it to one of the riders.
Well, that would be the kid.
He mentioned something to me
about meeting some lady
and she gave him
some kind of book.
What kind of book?
Hold on. Hold on.
What are you saying this
woman looked like?
I wish I could help you
but I don't recall anyone
of that description.
I have reason to believe
that one of your
pony express riders
why you so anxious
to catch up with her?
She's carrying
stolen military documents.
Now, I've been
ordered to recover them
Lou, but he's out on a ride.
We'll search his bunk.
And, you got no right
to do that.
- You get out of my way, son.
- This is private property.
Sergeant!
Now, hold on a minute.
Hold on a minute.
Now, I've been
ordered to recover them
before she delivers them
to southern sympathizers.
I wish I could help you
but I don't recall anyone
of that description.
Which one?
I have reason to believe
that one of your
pony express riders
met her in seneca four days ago.
Well, that would be the kid.
Now, nobody wants
any trouble here.
How about we do the searching
and you watch?
Will that suit you?
What the hell was that?
It's a dress.
A present he bought
for a girl in town.
Let's get on with it.
Come on, kid.
Now, hold on a minute.
Hold on a minute.
Now, nobody wants
any trouble here.
Made the express run
to lone tree.
He'll be back by supper.
Sergeant.
The book is not here.
Lou must have
taken it with him.
Where is he?
Made the express run
to lone tree.
He'll be back by supper.
It's a dress.
A present he bought
for a girl in town.
The book is not here.
Lou must have
taken it with him.
Why is he so anxious
to get that book?
- But, I told you the truth.
- No, you didn't.
Saunders says
you're spying for the south.
He's here?
Hey, where are you going?
Let's go.
- What?
- He murdered the real soldiers
and stole their uniforms.
It's the truth, I swear it.
Then, what's he want
with that book?
You didn't give it to him,
did you?
Don't believe Saunders.
He's not a soldier,
he's an outlaw.
- What?
- He murdered the real soldiers
and stole their uniforms.
Hey, where are you going?
- Yes.
- My god, kid, Saunders will
kill Lou to get that.
He's here?
Margaret, what's going on?
Don't believe Saunders.
He's not a soldier,
he's an outlaw.
You didn't give it to him,
did you?
No, Lou's got it.
Saunders doesn't know
where Lou is, does he?
- Yes.
- My god, kid, Saunders will
kill Lou to get that.
It's an express rider.
I don't have it.
It's back in rock creek.
You're lying. Search him.
I'm not talking
about a letter.
I want that book.
What book?
The one your friend gave you,
hand it over.
-Why?
-Don't argue with me, boy.
I'll take it if I have to.
What's wrong, captain?
Is your name, Lou?
That's right.
I think you're carrying
something I want.
What's wrong, captain?
You can't do that.
I think you're carrying
something I want.
I ain't allowed to give
out letters, sir.
You're gonna have to
pick it up at the way station.
I'm not talking
about a letter.
I want that book.
-Why?
-Don't argue with me, boy.
I'll take it if I have to.
I don't have it.
It's back in rock creek.
Stop him.
Let's get out of here.
What's in it
that's so important?
Nothing that's got anything
to do with us.
Sure it does.
It might be plans about
the war that's coming.
Lou, are you all right?
- Yeah.
- You sure?
Those soldiers just about
killed me for that book.
They're not soldiers,
they're outlaws.
Did you give them the book?
No. I gave it to the school.
Figured they need it
more than me.
Now, while you two are going
at each other,
the one person
that can tell us the truth
is probably leaving town.
Now, let's go find Margaret.
Lou!
Why do you keep running form it?
Why are you so anxious to
get blood on your hands?
Hold on. That's enough!
Now, while you two are going
at each other,
That's still no reason
to lie me.
You would've gotten
more upset if I'd told you
Margaret was pretty.
You're trying to blame all
this on me
and I didn't do anything.
Are you still mad?
I don't like being lied to.
I'm sorry, I shouldn't have.
Lou!
Lou!
Sure it does.
It might be plans about
the war that's coming.
Damn it, I'm sick
of being dragged
into other people's fight.
It's our fight.
It's our country.
Why do you keep running form it?
Not compared to you.
You really think she's pretty?
You're trying to blame all
this on me
and I didn't do anything.
Neither did I, that's the point.
You act as though I did
and I lied to defend myself.
Are you still mad?
I'm sorry, I shouldn't have.
It's just that when you saw
that book you acted as
though I did something wrong.
- I didn't say that.
- No, but you were thinking it.
That's still no reason
to lie me.
Yeah, but you still ain't
got a teacher.
Well, as a matter of fact
I found somebody's
who's perfect.
And, she lives
right here in town.
You act as though I did
and I lied to defend myself.
We're both wrong.
The hotel's donating
table and chairs.
And we've collected
over a hundred books
for the library.
Yeah, but you still ain't
got a teacher.
Yeah, another week
we'll be open for business.
The hotel's donating
table and chairs.
Well, I love books
and education.
I taught myself.
You don't have any schooling?
Nothing formal, no ma'am.
Well, pardon me, Rachel,
but what makes you think
you can teach school?
Well, I love books
and education.
I taught myself.
It looks like you're
coming right along.
No, he's not.
I'd like the job.
Well, pardon me, Rachel,
but what makes you think
you can teach school?
Well, that's fine
for politicians.
But a school teacher ought
to have an education.
I am educated.
It's true that I once
worked with a gambler,
but that was a long time ago.
I am educated.
Folks say you once
associated with men
of questionable reputation.
I believe, President Lincoln
never went to school neither.
Well, that's fine
for politicians.
- Who?
- Rachel.
Are you joking about this?
No, he's not.
I'd like the job.
I'm not going to teach
them how to gamble.
I'm going to teach
them how to read and write
and do their figures.
Well, we know that, Rachel,
but it just
wouldn't look good.
You understand, don't you?
Yeah. I understand.
It's true that I once
worked with a gambler,
but that was a long time ago.
I don't think that's
an appropriate influence
for our children.
Do you, Mr. Tompkins?
Can't say that I do.
I'm not going to teach
them how to gamble.
Of course,
I don't expect you people
to understand any of that.
You're so damn perfect.
That's why she'd make
a great teacher.
'Cause she knows mistakes
are part of learning.
Of course,
I don't expect you people
to understand any of that.
Yeah. I understand.
- Sorry to trouble you.
- Rachel.
Tompkins, that lady is one
of the most wonderful women
I've ever met in my life.
This.
Wait a minute.
Are you going to try
and tell us this is all about
some ripped page?
What does Saunders want with it?
Tompkins, that lady is one
of the most wonderful women
I've ever met in my life.
Of course she's made mistakes
but she's learned from them.
She's a better person for it.
What's so important
about this book?
Damn it, Margaret,
Lou almost got
killed over this thing.
What does Saunders want with it?
What's so important
about this book?
Now, we don't know each other.
This is the only way I have
of identifying myself.
If this page matches with his,
he'll give me
certain documents.
Are you going to try
and tell us this is all about
some ripped page?
The other half of this is held
by a man I'm supposed
to meet in ft. Kearny.
Now, we don't know each other.
This is the only way I have
of identifying myself.
This.
If this page matches with his,
he'll give me
certain documents.
What documents?
So I can carry it south.
So you are spying for them.
No, I only posed as a
sympathizer to
get a copy of the schedule.
The government in Washington
needs gold to fight
the war that's coming.
Most of that gold
is sent by ship
from California.
Now, if the southern forces
know what ships
it's being sent on,
they can steal it
for themselves.
So this man is
a southern sympathizer?
Look, no one can
stop this war that's coming.
But at least we can shorten it
by making sure that
the north gets that gold.
No, I only posed as a
sympathizer to
get a copy of the schedule.
Why should we believe you?
So this man is
a southern sympathizer?
Yes, and he is going
to give me a copy
of a stolen shipping schedule
so I can carry it south.
Most of that gold
is sent by ship
from California.
Now, if the southern forces
know what ships
it's being sent on,
Because I'm telling the truth,
I swear it.
Look, no one can
stop this war that's coming.
We're involved whether we
like it or not.
Kid's right. No matter what
we do we'll be helping out
one side or the other.
I don't trust her.
That's your opinion,
Jimmy, I do trust her.
That means we got a choice.
We either wait for him to
make his move or we make ours.
But at least we can shorten it
by making sure that
the north gets that gold.
I don't want my
husband's death
to be for nothing.
What do you think about this?
By helping her we could be
helping slavers.
Politics don't matter,
the facts are simple.
Saunders is a renegade.
He tried to kill Lou for this
book and he'll try it again.
That means we got a choice.
That's your opinion,
Jimmy, I do trust her.
Why?
She's lied about everything.
I say we don't get involved.
We're involved whether we
like it or not.
Kid's right. No matter what
we do we'll be helping out
one side or the other.
But, we don't know which one.
She says she's working for the
union, what if she's not?
By helping her we could be
helping slavers.
Ft. Kearny, folks. Ft. Kearny!
I don't see your friends.
Don't worry. They've been
shadowing us since rock creek.
What now?
I don't see your friends.
Don't worry. They've been
shadowing us since rock creek.
What now?
We check into the hotel.
Tomorrow I'm supposed
to wrap up the book
and leave it for a man
at the desk named Farnsworth.
Ft. Kearny, folks. Ft. Kearny!
- Thank you.
- Welcome.
And leave it for a man
at the desk named Farnsworth.
He's the one I told you about.
He'll contact me
if the pages match.
Uh, two, please.
Sign here, please.
Good afternoon. Need a room?
He's the one I told you about.
He'll contact me
if the pages match.
Where is it?
It's in the valise.
Don't you make a sound.
Good afternoon. Need a room?
107 and 108.
- Thank you.
- Welcome.
- What was that?
- Jonathan,
I heard something.
- Stay in the hall.
- Margaret? Margaret!
Oh, lord, no.
- Stay in the hall.
- Margaret? Margaret!
Should have given
that book to Margaret.
Where is it?
Should have given
that book to Margaret.
Saunders might
not have shot her
if he'd gotten it.
It ain't your fault, kid.
It's empty.
- What was that?
- Jonathan,
I heard something.
- Well, there might be one way
to smoke him out.
- How's that?
Get the gold schedule
from Farnsworth.
It ain't your fault, kid.
Nobody thought
he'd try anything until
she got that gold schedule.
This book has caused
so much damn trouble
I feel like burning it.
Get the gold schedule
from Farnsworth.
We can't without Margaret.
There might be another way.
This book has caused
so much damn trouble
I feel like burning it.
Not till we get Saunders.
He's gonna
pay for what he did.
- Well, there might be one way
to smoke him out.
- How's that?
Not with you four
keeping an eye on me.
If anything happens
you'll be right there.
- It just might work, kid.
- I don't like it.
Well, it's Lou's neck.
Makes it her decision.
I'll be Margaret.
- No, you won't.
- Why not?
Farnsworth doesn't know
what Margaret looks like.
No, it's too dangerous.
Not with you four
keeping an eye on me.
Well, it's Lou's neck.
Makes it her decision.
Teaspoon, what are you doing?
Why are these children here?
Well, they came for learning.
Teaspoon, you heard
what those folks said.
I'm not a good influence.
I'll be right back.
Teaspoon, you heard
what those folks said.
I'm not a good influence.
Well, they came for learning.
The schools
at the other end of town.
But, the teacher is here.
Teaspoon, you heard
what those folks said.
I'm not a good influence.
Rachel?
Maybe not, but they
need a teacher.
Even Jesse is getting
bored without his lessons.
Seems to me that
everybody gains from this.
Teaspoon, what are you doing?
Why are these children here?
Rachel, if I was you,
I'd put more stock
in what these children think
Seems to me that
everybody gains from this.
All right, I'll try.
Atta girl.
- But, you have to
hang up this laundry.
- Oh!
But, it's not up to
those children now, is it?
Maybe not, but they
need a teacher.
Rachel, if I was you,
I'd put more stock
in what these children think
than in what tompkins said.
But, it's not up to
those children now, is it?
Oh, I'd like to leave this for
a friend of mine.
All right, follow me.
Jesse?
I know how to read
Mrs. Dunne.
Teaspoon said it's important.
It'll only take a minute.
Oh, all right.
Yes, ma'am, may I help you?
- I'd like a room, please.
- Right away.
What are you reading, Jesse?
Oh, I'd like to leave this for
a friend of mine.
His name is Farnsworth.
Yes, ma'am, Mr. Farnsworth.
I'll see that he gets it.
But I can't leave, Noah.
I have customers
to take care of.
Teaspoon said it's important.
It'll only take a minute.
The last of the mohicans?
This is a great book.
Yes, ma'am, Mr. Farnsworth.
I'll see that he gets it.
- 203.
- Thank you.
What are you reading, Jesse?
- This is a dumb book.
- Let me see.
You mean, it ain't true?
Well, not exactly, no.
Then what's the good
of reading it?
- Who can tell me
what a novel is?
- Well...
- It's a made up story.
- That's right.
You mean, it ain't true?
Can you? No?
Oh, come on,
somebody's got an answer.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
Why else?
How about entertainment
or adventure.
This is a great book.
It's full of adventure.
- Who can tell me
what a novel is?
- Well...
different people,
knights and kings,
and pirates...
And, princesses.
Then what's the good
of reading it?
Good question.
Who can tell me why
we should read stories
that aren't true.
Oh, come on,
somebody's got an answer.
-For fun.
-For fun.
That's a good answer.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
Who can tell me why
we should read stories
that aren't true.
Can you? No?
How about entertainment
or adventure.
I don't know about you,
but this looks like
learning to me.
Different people,
knights and kings,
and pirates...
If we leave at dawn
we'll have plenty of time
to get into position.
I don't like it.
Lou will be at
the hotel too long.
I'm going to stay back
and follow you.
I'm supposed to come alone.
So, that means
we have to get out
there ahead of you.
If we leave at dawn
we'll have plenty of time
to get into position.
Where's twin bluffs?
It's about three miles
north of town.
I'm supposed to come alone.
I'm going to stay back
and follow you.
No. If he sees you,
that might scare him off.
You better go with them.
Good day, ma'am.
Be careful, all right.
Good day, ma'am.
It's a good wagon ma'am.
Hold up!
It's a good wagon ma'am.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Well, well, well, well, well.
You never will headed that way.
Mr. Farnsworth isn't
waiting over in twin bluffs.
He's over at the pond.
I must say,
you're a hell of a lot
more fetching as a woman
than as a pony express rider.
Well, well, well, well, well.
Because I took the letter
he wrote to you
and left mine in its place.
I had to get rid of
your friends.
If you know where Farnsworth
is, why don't you get
the schedule yourself?
Because he might be
too careful
to bring it with him.
Besides, he's expecting a woman.
He's over at the pond.
How do you know?
Because I took the letter
he wrote to you
and left mine in its place.
Don't do that!
Than as a pony express rider.
You're too early.
I haven't got the
schedule yet.
You never will headed that way.
Than as a pony express rider.
You're too early.
I haven't got the
schedule yet.
You never will headed that way.
Let's go, boys.
If you know where Farnsworth
is, why don't you get
the schedule yourself?
Oh, you will.
If you know where Farnsworth
is, why don't you get
the schedule yourself?
Don't do that!
I'm getting a bad feeling.
Let's get out of here.
There's no sign of her.
Something's wrong.
She should of
been here by now.
I'm getting a bad feeling.
I'm gonna be watching you.
You do like I told you.
Get out of sight.
I'm gonna be watching you.
You do like I told you.
There's no sign of her.
It's the purse Lou was carrying.
- Tracks go that way.
- Let's go.
All right, this is the place.
Mr. Farnsworth?
At your service.
Wait.
Stop, or I'll burn it!
Kid, have a look at this.
I apologize for
being so cautious.
I'm sure you understand.
Don't give it to me.
At your service.
I apologize for
being so cautious.
I'm sure you understand.
Don't give it to me.
What did you say?
Get down!
Stop, or I'll burn it!
Stop shooting.
I'm fine kid.
All this bloodshed
over a damn piece of paper.
- You all right?
- Yeah!
Let it go, Lou.
Come on, sometimes it's best
to just let things go.
- You all right?
- Yeah!
You had me worried.
Let it go, Lou.
All this bloodshed
over a damn piece of paper.
Oh, my god. The schedule!
I'm fine kid.
Stop, or I'll burn it!
Stop shooting.
St. Joseph, Missouri.
End of the line, folks.
Everybody off in St. Joe.
St. Joseph.
You worried?
Aren't you?
Everything is going just
the way we planned.
Damn it. Saunders.
No. It couldn't be!
Split up. Each man take a car.
Take this.
Meet me in ft. Kearny.
What are you doing?
Hold it right there!
Out of the way.
Hey, you!
- Stop!
- Shoot him!
Damn it, what did she look like?
Fire!
School's on fire,
bring buckets, shovels,
everybody.
School's on fire.
Oh, my god. Fire! Fire!
School's on fire!
Fire!
School's on fire.
Fire! Fire!
- Bring your buckets.
- I got it.
Get water!
Teaspoon!
Did the teacher get out?
He lives in there.
Oh, my god.
Harrison! Harrison!
Maybe he's trapped in there.
Teaspoon!
Did the teacher get out?
He lives in there.
- Bring your buckets.
- I got it.
I'm going' in.
Don't go. It's too dangerous.
All right, keep going.
He's gone. No use.
It's all over. He's dead.
There's no more we can do.
Don't go. It's too dangerous.
Coming with you, teaspoon.
Teaspoon!
He can't still be alive.
It's all over. He's dead.
There's no more we can do.
He's gone. No use.
Just let it burn.
Seneca, folks. Seneca.
That will be one dollar.
They full up over
at the way station?
No, but I'm tired of sleeping
on those hard bunks.
Seneca, folks. Seneca.
Thank you.
No, but I'm tired of sleeping
on those hard bunks.
Well, you'll sleep
comfortably tonight.
Room 211,
upstairs, end of the hall.
Seneca, folks. Seneca.
Room 211,
upstairs, end of the hall.
Thank you. Excuse me.
Oh, ma'am, I'm sorry but that
gentleman got my last room.
Oh, you must have something.
Welcome to seneca, ma'am.
Can I help you?
Yes, I'd like a room, please.
Oh, you must have something.
The stagecoach driver
said this is the
only hotel in town.
Oh, it is ma'am, ah,
but I'm sorry
there's nothing I can do.
Ma'am, don't worry.
You take my room.
Oh, that's very kind,
but I couldn't.
Thank you.
Thank you, very much.
Oh, it is ma'am, ah,
but I'm sorry
there's nothing I can do.
Ma'am, don't worry.
You take my room.
Oh, that's very kind,
but I couldn't.
No, please I have
another place to stay.
- Are you sure?
- I insist. Room 211.
Thank you.
Thank you, very much.
Here you go, ma'am.
Thank you.
Get my dollar back?
- No, no, please don't get up.
- Good evening.
I just stopped by
to inquire if you found
a place to stay.
Yes, ma'am I did.
No, no. I couldn't
impose on you again.
It wouldn't be imposing.
I'd enjoy the company, please.
I'm Margaret Calhoun.
Pleased to meet you.
Folks call me kid.
Pardon me.
- No, no, please don't get up.
- Good evening.
Good.
You were a godsend today.
I don't know how to thank you.
Well, I'd consider
the debt paid if you
joined me for supper.
No, no. I couldn't
impose on you again.
Yes, ma'am I did.
Good.
You were a godsend today.
I don't know how to thank you.
I've ridden through
ft. Kearny quite a few
times on my express runs.
A nice place.
I'm looking for a young woman...
Uh... i, um, have some
family business there.
Pleased to meet you.
Folks call me kid.
Ah, the hotel clerk
said that you worked
for the pony express.
That's right.
Rock creek's my home station.
Is that anywhere
near ft. Kearny?
There's a bunch of us
who ride for the express.
We've been out in these parts
only a short time.
- Is that where you're headed,
ft. Kearny?
- Yes, yes it is.
Oh, that's quite a
distance to be traveling,
especially on the stage.
Is that anywhere
near ft. Kearny?
No, but you pass through
it on the way.
- Is that where you're headed,
ft. Kearny?
- Yes, yes it is.
There was one that came in
on the stage today.
I put her upstairs in room 211.
There's a bunch of us
who ride for the express.
Oh, that's quite a
distance to be traveling,
especially on the stage.
I've ridden through
ft. Kearny quite a few
times on my express runs.
Uh... i, um, have some
family business there.
Ah, it must be awfully
important to travel that far.
They had trouble
keeping the station
open there.
Is something wrong?
Oh, no. I was just thinking
how romantic that sounds.
Ah, it must be awfully
important to travel that far.
There was one that came in
on the stage today.
Oh, no. I was just thinking
how romantic that sounds.
Really?
Kid, uh, do you read any poetry?
Uh, sometimes.
We've been out in these parts
only a short time.
We used to be in Sweetwater,
but the company moved
us to rock creek.
They had trouble
keeping the station
open there.
Kid, uh, do you read any poetry?
I want you to have it as a
token of my gratitude.
Thank you.
Really?
Oh, if you're looking
for that young lady,
she, she mentioned
she was going to have her
supper in the dining room.
Pardon me.
Here, I think you'd like this.
I want you to have it as a
token of my gratitude.
Why, thank you,
very much, ma'am.
Oh, oh, my, I...
I'm really feeling
faint all of a sudden.
- A good night's rest
is all I need.
- I'll see you to your room.
No, no I insist.
You have your supper,
thank you.
She, she mentioned
she was going to have her
supper in the dining room.
Why, thank you,
very much, ma'am.
No, no I insist.
You have your supper,
thank you.
I'm really feeling
faint all of a sudden.
Oh, if you'll excuse me.
It's nothing to
be concerned about.
I assure you.
- A good night's rest
is all I need.
- I'll see you to your room.
Excuse me.
Was there a
young lady sitting with you?
- Yes, there was.
- Where is she?
Yes, she was sitting
over there at that table.
Look out back.
I'll check the street.
- Yes, there was.
- Where is she?
Why do you wanna know?
That's a military matter.
Now, where'd she go?
She said she wasn't
feeling well and
decided to excuse herself.
All right, settle down! Quiet!
That's enough talk.
It's time to vote.
All those in favor
of a special tax
What's that?
- A book a woman gave me.
- A woman?
All right, settle down! Quiet!
All those in favor
of a special tax
to rebuild the schoolhouse,
vote, aye.
The "ayes" have it.
What sense does it make to
build a new schoolhouse?
We ain't even got a teacher?
Don't worry I have notices
in every paper between here
and St. Joe.
Teaspoon, we'll need books too.
There must be plenty of
books right here in town.
Why don't we just take up
a collection for the kids
to use till new ones get here?
Good idea, Noah.
Rachel will you handle that?
Aye!
- Those opposed?
- No!
The "ayes" have it.
Teaspoon, we'll need books too.
All the school's books
burned in the fire.
There must be plenty of
books right here in town.
Rider coming!
Teaspoon, we'll need books too.
All the school's books
burned in the fire.
There must be plenty of
books right here in town.
Then there's no further
business I declare
this meeting adjourned.
Good idea, Noah.
Rachel will you handle that?
I'd be glad to.
Then there's no further
business I declare
this meeting adjourned.
Rider coming!
- Hey!
- Hey!
- How's your ride?
- Oh, it was good.
We missed you around here.
It was terrible, kid.
The schoolhouse
exploded in flames.
Didn't it, Cody?
It's one of the worst fires
I ever saw.
Wasn't nothing we could
do about it.
On the way back
from my run I stopped off
at the seneca hotel.
I thought I'd sleep
in one of the...
It was terrible, kid.
The schoolhouse
exploded in flames.
I thought I'd sleep
in one of the...
"How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways."
Wasn't nothing we could
do about it.
That's a shame about
Mr. Harrison.
What's that?
Thank you, kid.
Mmm, I never should've
doubted you.
The hotel I stayed at ran out
of rooms and an old lady...
"How do I love thee?
Let me count the ways."
Must have been a very
interesting trip there, kid.
Cody.
- It's a present for you.
- A present?
Must have been a very
interesting trip there, kid.
Those are love poems.
Why did some
woman give you that?
Oh, come on, Lou,
you make it sound
like something happened.
Sounds like it to me, kid.
You're not helping much, Cody.
What am I supposed to think?
Cody.
The hotel I stayed at ran out
of rooms and an old lady...
That's right. I wouldn't
even have took it if,
I didn't think you'd like it.
- It's a present for you.
- A present?
Yeah, the hotel I stayed at...
Thank you, kid.
Thank you, for the
donation, sir.
The school appreciates it.
Get back to work, Jesse.
All right, everybody.
Grab hold. We'll raise her.
An old lady gave you that?
That's right. I wouldn't
even have took it if,
I didn't think you'd like it.
Horses ready?
Yeah.
Thank you, for the
donation, sir.
The school appreciates it.
All right,
on the count of three.
All right, everybody.
Grab hold. We'll raise her.
Two.
- Don't bother, you're busy.
- Ah, I'm never too busy to
say good bye to you.
One.
All right,
on the count of three.
Ah, stop it.
Three!
Yeah, yeah, come on, come on!
I got to head back.
Get ready for my run.
- I'll go with you.
- Ah.
- Don't bother, you're busy.
- Ah, I'm never too busy to
say good bye to you.
Who are you?
Hello, kid.
Margaret, what are you
doing here?
I just stopped by
on the way to ft. Kearny.
I realized no one was here
so I let myself in
so I could write you a note.
How do you two know each other?
Ah, we don't really.
We met in seneca
the other day.
We're over at
the school raising.
You ought to come see it.
I'd love to.
Ah, we don't really.
We met in seneca
the other day.
Kid, was kind enough to
give me his hotel room.
Oh, so you're the one
who gave him
that book of poems, then.
Yes, yes, I did.
I hope you're enjoying it.
Lou!
Did I say something wrong?
No.
Come on, I'll walk you
over to the hotel.
Oh, can I trouble you for a
small favor first?
Yes, yes, I did.
I hope you're enjoying it.
Well, I'm sure you all have
a lot to talk about,
if you'll excuse me.
- Sure.
- There's a poem in that book
that I'm particularly fond of.
May I borrow it so I may write
a copy for myself?
I can get it to you
later, though.
- You won't forget?
- Promise.
Okay.
Well, I'm sure you all have
a lot to talk about,
if you'll excuse me.
Well, I don't have it,
right now.
I can get it to you
later, though.
Oh, can I trouble you for a
small favor first?
- Sure.
- There's a poem in that book
that I'm particularly fond of.
Well, you never told me
what you were going to do
in ft. Kearny?
Oh, it's just family business.
I won't bore you
with the details.
Oh, it couldn't be that boring
what with soldiers
chasing you.
Well, you haven't seen
them around here, have you?
Are you in...
Are you in some kind
of trouble, Margaret?
Oh, it couldn't be that boring
what with soldiers
chasing you.
What soldiers?
The hotel the other night.
They came looking for
you right after you left.
Only now,
they're trying to kill me.
The hotel the other night.
They came looking for
you right after you left.
Well, you haven't seen
them around here, have you?
Are you in...
Are you in some kind
of trouble, Margaret?
Now, I might be able to help.
They murdered my husband.
Those soldiers?
No, their commander,
captain Saunders.
Now, I might be able to help.
They murdered my husband.
My husband caught them
cheating at cards.
Then the next night,
Saunders shot him.
I told the sheriff,
but Saunders
denied everything.
And, his men backed him up.
No, their commander,
captain Saunders.
What happened?
My husband caught them
cheating at cards.
"But, soft, what light
through yonder window breaks,
"it is the east
and Juliet is the song..."
Then the next night,
Saunders shot him.
I saw it but
he didn't realize it.
I told the sheriff,
but Saunders
denied everything.
Only now,
they're trying to kill me.
Oh, I thought if I ran
far enough he'd stop.
Shh...
Come on,
let's get you to your room.
Appreciate you
letting us store these books
at your office, teaspoon.
Oh, glad I could help.
Come on,
let's get you to your room.
I think we have the beginnings
of a real fine library
for the school.
"But, soft, what light
through yonder window breaks,
- Well, I might give it a try.
- You should.
You know that's
the great thing about reading.
"It is the east
and Juliet is the song..."
William Shakespeare.
Oh, glad I could help.
I think we have the beginnings
of a real fine library
for the school.
Bet you'd love it.
It was my favorite
when I was younger.
For months all I could dream
of was being shipwrecked
on a deserted island.
- Well, I might give it a try.
- You should.
Oh, this here's, ah,
Robinson crusoe.
Ain't he that fellow
that got stuck on the island?
Yes, oh, it's wonderful.
Oh?
The pay ain't much
but the hours are decent.
You'd be perfect.
You know that's
the great thing about reading.
Just by turning the page
you can be in another
country, in another time.
How could I teach school
when I hardly had any myself?
Well, education isn't
where you learned,
it's what you know.
Oh, this here's, ah,
Robinson crusoe.
The pay ain't much
but the hours are decent.
You'd be perfect.
What are you talking about?
Being the new schoolmarm.
- Me?
- Yeah.
Yes, oh, it's wonderful.
Bet you'd love it.
It was my favorite
when I was younger.
Well, you got more education
teaching yourself than most
people I know went to college.
But it takes training
to be a teacher.
I wouldn't know
where to start with students.
Just by turning the page
you can be in another
country, in another time.
I love books. Can you tell?
You know, I got the job for you.
I wouldn't know
where to start with students.
Start where you
started with yourself.
Find something that
they're curious about
and let that work for you.
Well...
Well, let's face it,
teaspoon, I'm not exactly
the schoolmarm type.
Well,
believe me,
you'll do just fine.
- Me?
- Yeah.
No, I couldn't do that.
Oh, sure you could.
How could I teach school
when I hardly had any myself?
Well, education isn't
where you learned,
it's what you know.
Well, you got more education
teaching yourself than most
people I know went to college.
Well,
believe me,
you'll do just fine.
Well, why would they?
Well, let's face it,
teaspoon, I'm not exactly
the schoolmarm type.
I'd be willing to
give it a try
if folks didn't object.
Well, why would they?
Well, then I wouldn't mind
meeting her myself.
Excuse me.
Why you so anxious
to catch up with her?
No running in the street, now.
Hold on. Hold on.
I've never seen her.
I'd been told
she's about twenty-five,
red hair, quite attractive.
What kind of book?
I don't have it.
What did you do with it?
I gave it to one of the riders.
Well, that would be the kid.
He mentioned something to me
about meeting some lady
and she gave him
some kind of book.
What kind of book?
Hold on. Hold on.
What are you saying this
woman looked like?
I wish I could help you
but I don't recall anyone
of that description.
I have reason to believe
that one of your
pony express riders
why you so anxious
to catch up with her?
She's carrying
stolen military documents.
Now, I've been
ordered to recover them
Lou, but he's out on a ride.
We'll search his bunk.
And, you got no right
to do that.
- You get out of my way, son.
- This is private property.
Sergeant!
Now, hold on a minute.
Hold on a minute.
Now, I've been
ordered to recover them
before she delivers them
to southern sympathizers.
I wish I could help you
but I don't recall anyone
of that description.
Which one?
I have reason to believe
that one of your
pony express riders
met her in seneca four days ago.
Well, that would be the kid.
Now, nobody wants
any trouble here.
How about we do the searching
and you watch?
Will that suit you?
What the hell was that?
It's a dress.
A present he bought
for a girl in town.
Let's get on with it.
Come on, kid.
Now, hold on a minute.
Hold on a minute.
Now, nobody wants
any trouble here.
Made the express run
to lone tree.
He'll be back by supper.
Sergeant.
The book is not here.
Lou must have
taken it with him.
Where is he?
Made the express run
to lone tree.
He'll be back by supper.
It's a dress.
A present he bought
for a girl in town.
The book is not here.
Lou must have
taken it with him.
Why is he so anxious
to get that book?
- But, I told you the truth.
- No, you didn't.
Saunders says
you're spying for the south.
He's here?
Hey, where are you going?
Let's go.
- What?
- He murdered the real soldiers
and stole their uniforms.
It's the truth, I swear it.
Then, what's he want
with that book?
You didn't give it to him,
did you?
Don't believe Saunders.
He's not a soldier,
he's an outlaw.
- What?
- He murdered the real soldiers
and stole their uniforms.
Hey, where are you going?
- Yes.
- My god, kid, Saunders will
kill Lou to get that.
He's here?
Margaret, what's going on?
Don't believe Saunders.
He's not a soldier,
he's an outlaw.
You didn't give it to him,
did you?
No, Lou's got it.
Saunders doesn't know
where Lou is, does he?
- Yes.
- My god, kid, Saunders will
kill Lou to get that.
It's an express rider.
I don't have it.
It's back in rock creek.
You're lying. Search him.
I'm not talking
about a letter.
I want that book.
What book?
The one your friend gave you,
hand it over.
-Why?
-Don't argue with me, boy.
I'll take it if I have to.
What's wrong, captain?
Is your name, Lou?
That's right.
I think you're carrying
something I want.
What's wrong, captain?
You can't do that.
I think you're carrying
something I want.
I ain't allowed to give
out letters, sir.
You're gonna have to
pick it up at the way station.
I'm not talking
about a letter.
I want that book.
-Why?
-Don't argue with me, boy.
I'll take it if I have to.
I don't have it.
It's back in rock creek.
Stop him.
Let's get out of here.
What's in it
that's so important?
Nothing that's got anything
to do with us.
Sure it does.
It might be plans about
the war that's coming.
Lou, are you all right?
- Yeah.
- You sure?
Those soldiers just about
killed me for that book.
They're not soldiers,
they're outlaws.
Did you give them the book?
No. I gave it to the school.
Figured they need it
more than me.
Now, while you two are going
at each other,
the one person
that can tell us the truth
is probably leaving town.
Now, let's go find Margaret.
Lou!
Why do you keep running form it?
Why are you so anxious to
get blood on your hands?
Hold on. That's enough!
Now, while you two are going
at each other,
That's still no reason
to lie me.
You would've gotten
more upset if I'd told you
Margaret was pretty.
You're trying to blame all
this on me
and I didn't do anything.
Are you still mad?
I don't like being lied to.
I'm sorry, I shouldn't have.
Lou!
Lou!
Sure it does.
It might be plans about
the war that's coming.
Damn it, I'm sick
of being dragged
into other people's fight.
It's our fight.
It's our country.
Why do you keep running form it?
Not compared to you.
You really think she's pretty?
You're trying to blame all
this on me
and I didn't do anything.
Neither did I, that's the point.
You act as though I did
and I lied to defend myself.
Are you still mad?
I'm sorry, I shouldn't have.
It's just that when you saw
that book you acted as
though I did something wrong.
- I didn't say that.
- No, but you were thinking it.
That's still no reason
to lie me.
Yeah, but you still ain't
got a teacher.
Well, as a matter of fact
I found somebody's
who's perfect.
And, she lives
right here in town.
You act as though I did
and I lied to defend myself.
We're both wrong.
The hotel's donating
table and chairs.
And we've collected
over a hundred books
for the library.
Yeah, but you still ain't
got a teacher.
Yeah, another week
we'll be open for business.
The hotel's donating
table and chairs.
Well, I love books
and education.
I taught myself.
You don't have any schooling?
Nothing formal, no ma'am.
Well, pardon me, Rachel,
but what makes you think
you can teach school?
Well, I love books
and education.
I taught myself.
It looks like you're
coming right along.
No, he's not.
I'd like the job.
Well, pardon me, Rachel,
but what makes you think
you can teach school?
Well, that's fine
for politicians.
But a school teacher ought
to have an education.
I am educated.
It's true that I once
worked with a gambler,
but that was a long time ago.
I am educated.
Folks say you once
associated with men
of questionable reputation.
I believe, President Lincoln
never went to school neither.
Well, that's fine
for politicians.
- Who?
- Rachel.
Are you joking about this?
No, he's not.
I'd like the job.
I'm not going to teach
them how to gamble.
I'm going to teach
them how to read and write
and do their figures.
Well, we know that, Rachel,
but it just
wouldn't look good.
You understand, don't you?
Yeah. I understand.
It's true that I once
worked with a gambler,
but that was a long time ago.
I don't think that's
an appropriate influence
for our children.
Do you, Mr. Tompkins?
Can't say that I do.
I'm not going to teach
them how to gamble.
Of course,
I don't expect you people
to understand any of that.
You're so damn perfect.
That's why she'd make
a great teacher.
'Cause she knows mistakes
are part of learning.
Of course,
I don't expect you people
to understand any of that.
Yeah. I understand.
- Sorry to trouble you.
- Rachel.
Tompkins, that lady is one
of the most wonderful women
I've ever met in my life.
This.
Wait a minute.
Are you going to try
and tell us this is all about
some ripped page?
What does Saunders want with it?
Tompkins, that lady is one
of the most wonderful women
I've ever met in my life.
Of course she's made mistakes
but she's learned from them.
She's a better person for it.
What's so important
about this book?
Damn it, Margaret,
Lou almost got
killed over this thing.
What does Saunders want with it?
What's so important
about this book?
Now, we don't know each other.
This is the only way I have
of identifying myself.
If this page matches with his,
he'll give me
certain documents.
Are you going to try
and tell us this is all about
some ripped page?
The other half of this is held
by a man I'm supposed
to meet in ft. Kearny.
Now, we don't know each other.
This is the only way I have
of identifying myself.
This.
If this page matches with his,
he'll give me
certain documents.
What documents?
So I can carry it south.
So you are spying for them.
No, I only posed as a
sympathizer to
get a copy of the schedule.
The government in Washington
needs gold to fight
the war that's coming.
Most of that gold
is sent by ship
from California.
Now, if the southern forces
know what ships
it's being sent on,
they can steal it
for themselves.
So this man is
a southern sympathizer?
Look, no one can
stop this war that's coming.
But at least we can shorten it
by making sure that
the north gets that gold.
No, I only posed as a
sympathizer to
get a copy of the schedule.
Why should we believe you?
So this man is
a southern sympathizer?
Yes, and he is going
to give me a copy
of a stolen shipping schedule
so I can carry it south.
Most of that gold
is sent by ship
from California.
Now, if the southern forces
know what ships
it's being sent on,
Because I'm telling the truth,
I swear it.
Look, no one can
stop this war that's coming.
We're involved whether we
like it or not.
Kid's right. No matter what
we do we'll be helping out
one side or the other.
I don't trust her.
That's your opinion,
Jimmy, I do trust her.
That means we got a choice.
We either wait for him to
make his move or we make ours.
But at least we can shorten it
by making sure that
the north gets that gold.
I don't want my
husband's death
to be for nothing.
What do you think about this?
By helping her we could be
helping slavers.
Politics don't matter,
the facts are simple.
Saunders is a renegade.
He tried to kill Lou for this
book and he'll try it again.
That means we got a choice.
That's your opinion,
Jimmy, I do trust her.
Why?
She's lied about everything.
I say we don't get involved.
We're involved whether we
like it or not.
Kid's right. No matter what
we do we'll be helping out
one side or the other.
But, we don't know which one.
She says she's working for the
union, what if she's not?
By helping her we could be
helping slavers.
Ft. Kearny, folks. Ft. Kearny!
I don't see your friends.
Don't worry. They've been
shadowing us since rock creek.
What now?
I don't see your friends.
Don't worry. They've been
shadowing us since rock creek.
What now?
We check into the hotel.
Tomorrow I'm supposed
to wrap up the book
and leave it for a man
at the desk named Farnsworth.
Ft. Kearny, folks. Ft. Kearny!
- Thank you.
- Welcome.
And leave it for a man
at the desk named Farnsworth.
He's the one I told you about.
He'll contact me
if the pages match.
Uh, two, please.
Sign here, please.
Good afternoon. Need a room?
He's the one I told you about.
He'll contact me
if the pages match.
Where is it?
It's in the valise.
Don't you make a sound.
Good afternoon. Need a room?
107 and 108.
- Thank you.
- Welcome.
- What was that?
- Jonathan,
I heard something.
- Stay in the hall.
- Margaret? Margaret!
Oh, lord, no.
- Stay in the hall.
- Margaret? Margaret!
Should have given
that book to Margaret.
Where is it?
Should have given
that book to Margaret.
Saunders might
not have shot her
if he'd gotten it.
It ain't your fault, kid.
It's empty.
- What was that?
- Jonathan,
I heard something.
- Well, there might be one way
to smoke him out.
- How's that?
Get the gold schedule
from Farnsworth.
It ain't your fault, kid.
Nobody thought
he'd try anything until
she got that gold schedule.
This book has caused
so much damn trouble
I feel like burning it.
Get the gold schedule
from Farnsworth.
We can't without Margaret.
There might be another way.
This book has caused
so much damn trouble
I feel like burning it.
Not till we get Saunders.
He's gonna
pay for what he did.
- Well, there might be one way
to smoke him out.
- How's that?
Not with you four
keeping an eye on me.
If anything happens
you'll be right there.
- It just might work, kid.
- I don't like it.
Well, it's Lou's neck.
Makes it her decision.
I'll be Margaret.
- No, you won't.
- Why not?
Farnsworth doesn't know
what Margaret looks like.
No, it's too dangerous.
Not with you four
keeping an eye on me.
Well, it's Lou's neck.
Makes it her decision.
Teaspoon, what are you doing?
Why are these children here?
Well, they came for learning.
Teaspoon, you heard
what those folks said.
I'm not a good influence.
I'll be right back.
Teaspoon, you heard
what those folks said.
I'm not a good influence.
Well, they came for learning.
The schools
at the other end of town.
But, the teacher is here.
Teaspoon, you heard
what those folks said.
I'm not a good influence.
Rachel?
Maybe not, but they
need a teacher.
Even Jesse is getting
bored without his lessons.
Seems to me that
everybody gains from this.
Teaspoon, what are you doing?
Why are these children here?
Rachel, if I was you,
I'd put more stock
in what these children think
Seems to me that
everybody gains from this.
All right, I'll try.
Atta girl.
- But, you have to
hang up this laundry.
- Oh!
But, it's not up to
those children now, is it?
Maybe not, but they
need a teacher.
Rachel, if I was you,
I'd put more stock
in what these children think
than in what tompkins said.
But, it's not up to
those children now, is it?
Oh, I'd like to leave this for
a friend of mine.
All right, follow me.
Jesse?
I know how to read
Mrs. Dunne.
Teaspoon said it's important.
It'll only take a minute.
Oh, all right.
Yes, ma'am, may I help you?
- I'd like a room, please.
- Right away.
What are you reading, Jesse?
Oh, I'd like to leave this for
a friend of mine.
His name is Farnsworth.
Yes, ma'am, Mr. Farnsworth.
I'll see that he gets it.
But I can't leave, Noah.
I have customers
to take care of.
Teaspoon said it's important.
It'll only take a minute.
The last of the mohicans?
This is a great book.
Yes, ma'am, Mr. Farnsworth.
I'll see that he gets it.
- 203.
- Thank you.
What are you reading, Jesse?
- This is a dumb book.
- Let me see.
You mean, it ain't true?
Well, not exactly, no.
Then what's the good
of reading it?
- Who can tell me
what a novel is?
- Well...
- It's a made up story.
- That's right.
You mean, it ain't true?
Can you? No?
Oh, come on,
somebody's got an answer.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
Why else?
How about entertainment
or adventure.
This is a great book.
It's full of adventure.
- Who can tell me
what a novel is?
- Well...
different people,
knights and kings,
and pirates...
And, princesses.
Then what's the good
of reading it?
Good question.
Who can tell me why
we should read stories
that aren't true.
Oh, come on,
somebody's got an answer.
-For fun.
-For fun.
That's a good answer.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
Who can tell me why
we should read stories
that aren't true.
Can you? No?
How about entertainment
or adventure.
I don't know about you,
but this looks like
learning to me.
Different people,
knights and kings,
and pirates...
If we leave at dawn
we'll have plenty of time
to get into position.
I don't like it.
Lou will be at
the hotel too long.
I'm going to stay back
and follow you.
I'm supposed to come alone.
So, that means
we have to get out
there ahead of you.
If we leave at dawn
we'll have plenty of time
to get into position.
Where's twin bluffs?
It's about three miles
north of town.
I'm supposed to come alone.
I'm going to stay back
and follow you.
No. If he sees you,
that might scare him off.
You better go with them.
Good day, ma'am.
Be careful, all right.
Good day, ma'am.
It's a good wagon ma'am.
Hold up!
It's a good wagon ma'am.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
Well, well, well, well, well.
You never will headed that way.
Mr. Farnsworth isn't
waiting over in twin bluffs.
He's over at the pond.
I must say,
you're a hell of a lot
more fetching as a woman
than as a pony express rider.
Well, well, well, well, well.
Because I took the letter
he wrote to you
and left mine in its place.
I had to get rid of
your friends.
If you know where Farnsworth
is, why don't you get
the schedule yourself?
Because he might be
too careful
to bring it with him.
Besides, he's expecting a woman.
He's over at the pond.
How do you know?
Because I took the letter
he wrote to you
and left mine in its place.
Don't do that!
Than as a pony express rider.
You're too early.
I haven't got the
schedule yet.
You never will headed that way.
Than as a pony express rider.
You're too early.
I haven't got the
schedule yet.
You never will headed that way.
Let's go, boys.
If you know where Farnsworth
is, why don't you get
the schedule yourself?
Oh, you will.
If you know where Farnsworth
is, why don't you get
the schedule yourself?
Don't do that!
I'm getting a bad feeling.
Let's get out of here.
There's no sign of her.
Something's wrong.
She should of
been here by now.
I'm getting a bad feeling.
I'm gonna be watching you.
You do like I told you.
Get out of sight.
I'm gonna be watching you.
You do like I told you.
There's no sign of her.
It's the purse Lou was carrying.
- Tracks go that way.
- Let's go.
All right, this is the place.
Mr. Farnsworth?
At your service.
Wait.
Stop, or I'll burn it!
Kid, have a look at this.
I apologize for
being so cautious.
I'm sure you understand.
Don't give it to me.
At your service.
I apologize for
being so cautious.
I'm sure you understand.
Don't give it to me.
What did you say?
Get down!
Stop, or I'll burn it!
Stop shooting.
I'm fine kid.
All this bloodshed
over a damn piece of paper.
- You all right?
- Yeah!
Let it go, Lou.
Come on, sometimes it's best
to just let things go.
- You all right?
- Yeah!
You had me worried.
Let it go, Lou.
All this bloodshed
over a damn piece of paper.
Oh, my god. The schedule!
I'm fine kid.
Stop, or I'll burn it!
Stop shooting.