S02-E01: Through a Glass, Darkly — Directed by Metin Hüseyin; Written by Ronald D. Moore
The show starts off with Claire (Caitriona Balfe) waking up on the ground at Craig na Dun, upset and wishing she was dead, and searching for something in her dress, then in the grass. She finds a ring setting with the stone missing, presumably Jamie's. She's very upset that she can't find the stone, and starts screaming. After she pulls herself together, she starts walking down the road and a car pulls up and stops. The driver (Steven Docherty) asks if she's all right. She doesn't answer, and he asks if she speaks English. Still no answer. Finally she demands to know what year it is. He tells her it is 1948. Then she demands to know who won the battle of Culloden, and he replies that it was the Brittish. She breaks down sobbing.
The new opening credits roll, with the slightly altered Theme Song (still the Skye Boat song, but with modified lyrics, some in French).
The next scene shows Frank (Tobias Menzies) barging through hospital doors asking a Nurse (Morven MacBeth) where his wife is, then she gets Dr. Edwards (Sandy Welch) who tells him that she's mildly dehydrated and has some superficial cuts and bruises. Then he sees her in the hospital bed, looking very dispondent. She asks him to turn off the radio (where "Milkman Keep Those Bottles Quiet" is playing), and comments that it is very noisy there, referring to traffic outside her window where we see a dog walking (which just happens to be Ron Moore's and Terry Dresback's dog Cuilean).
She says "Frank... Hello, I'm back", and he says he's so grateful and approaches her, but she sees Black Jack Randall (Tobias Menzies) instead, and pulls away in fear. Then a Photographer (John Scougall) barges in and takes her picture. The nurse scoots him out. Frank tells her that he's taking her to Reverend Wakefield's (James Fleet) where she can convalesce in peace. She asks him if Mrs. Graham (Tracey Wilkinson) is still in his employ, as she needs to speak with her. Then Frank notices Claire's clothing laying on a chair. Very old-fashioned (1800's) clothing.
Frank and Reverend Wakefield are talking, and Frank says his friend Professor Atkins said that the clothes are authentic 18th century clothing, very valuable (Frank is sniffing her shift). He tells Rev. Wakefield that it isn't something she could just walk into a shop and purchase, and he agrees.
Rev. Wakefield says Claire has just about exhausted his collection of Culloden and the Jacobite rebellion, and wonders what prompted her sudden interest in Scottish history. Frank doesn't know either. She's been back a week, and Rev. Wakefield wonders when she will provide some answers, and says they're not the only one with questions. He picks up a newspaper with the photo of Claire in the hospital bed, and the title, "KIDNAPPED BY THE FAIRIES??" Frank says, "Devil take the press." And Rev. Wakefield replies, "That's not likely, even the Devil has standards." Frank looks out the window at Claire sitting on a bench talking with Mrs. Graham.
Claire is looking through a bunch of history books looking for answers about what happened at Culloden, but not finding what she's seeking. Mrs. Graham assures her that the Reverend's collection is the finest in all of Scotland.
It becomes obvious that Claire has been telling Mrs. Graham all about her adventures in the 18th century. Well, she knows that Mrs. Graham will understand and believe her.
Two jets fly overhead making a lot of noise. Mrs. Graham tells her there might be a war with Russia soon, and Claire gets upset, saying, "There's always another fucking war!" Then she tells Mrs. Graham about how she once called Jamie a "fucking sadist" and he didn't know what the word "fucking" meant.
Mrs. Graham advises Claire to cherish and protect her memories of her grand adventure, somewhere tucked away and safe, but to not the rest of her days chasing a ghost when she has a flesh-and-blood living man who loves her with all his heart. They both look at Frank observing them through a window.
Later that night Claire invites Frank into her room and tells him she wants to reveal what happened. He tells her that it isn't necessary, but she insists, and asks him to hold his questions until she's done. Fast forward to the next morning. Frank looks like he's been through the ringer, but still insists that he still loves her and wants her back. She finally tells him that she's pregnant. His first reaction is sheer joy, then that joy crumbles as he realizes the baby isn't his. She tells him that she's carrying Jamie's child. He's crushed, and angry and you see a little bit of Jack as he looms over Claire furious with a clenched fist. He storms out of the house and takes out his frustrations (putting it lightly) on the contents of the Reverend's tool shed.
Frank and Reverend Wakefield are talking about the pregnancy later, and the preacher tries to console Frank, telling him that he's not the first man to be faced with this situation, bringing up Mary telling Joseph that she was with child and he couldn't be the father. Frank says, "I am not Joseph, she is not Mary, and I'm fairly certain the father isn't God Almighty. He was a man who fucked my wife!"
Little Roger (Rory Burns) pops in and asks, "Please may I go outside to play?" and he calls the Reverend Father. Hope he didn't hear Frank's outburst! Then the Reverend explains that even though Roger is not his son, Roger sees him as such, so he's stopped correcting him. Then Frank says, "Please, you're going to connect your nephew to my situation. The words, God's Plan, are about to escape your lips." The reverend smiles and says sheepishly, "At the risk of fulfilling your worst expectation I will say this: a child without a father, and a man without a child, have been given this chance to find one another, and yes, I would call that part of God's Eternal Plan. What you choose to call it Frank, well, that's up to you."
Frank proposes to Claire that they stay together as man and wife, and child. He wants to accept a post at Harvard, which will get them away from the press who are making a big deal of her return. He has conditions: 1) they raise the child together as theirs. And as long as he's alive, he doesn't want her to search for Jamie. She must let him go. She agrees, not for Frank, but because she'd promised Jamie the same thing, that she would let him go. So she accepts his conditions and embrace tentatively. He tells Claire that she's made him very happy, and he hopes that in time he will make her happy as well. She picks up her 18th century clothes, says "Time to leave the past behind", and hands them to Frank, then tries to take off Jamie's ring, but Frank interrupts her saying, "It's all right, when you're ready." And she snugs it back on her finger and pulls out Jamie's ring, without a stone, and tucks it into a suitcase. She looks out the window and sees Frank burning her clothes in the Reverend's barbeque grill.
We next see Claire looking out the window of a PAN AMERICAN WORLD AIRWAYS plane, then stepping through the door and descending the stairway. At the last step Frank says, "One more step", he holds his hand out to her, and she takes it.
In a most wonderful transition, we see another hand reaching out for hers, and it's Jamie (Sam Heughan) helping Claire off the ship at the dock in Le Havre, France, 1744. She says, "To new beginnings".
Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) appears saying, "France — reeks of frogs. Just as I remember it!" He arranges for rooms for them.
At the inn, Jamie carefully sits down on the bed cradling his broken hand. He's not looking very comfortable, haunted even, but comments on how the bed doesna move. Claire asks him what's wrong, and he tells her "sometimes I feel "His" touch, like he's here", (referring to Black Jack). Claire says, "I'm here. I'm right here, and I'm not going away." He says, "You're a hard one to get rid of, that's for sure." and she replies, "I'm stubborn, just like my husband." Then she tries to distract him by talking about their plan to infiltrate the Jacobites, thwart Prince Charlie's plans, and change history. He'd rather they try to win the war, but Claire says she doesn't have enough information. He asks her specifically what she does know, and she briefly describes what she knows. He says that's not a lot to go on. He thinks she has a high opinion of what a crippled highlander and a pregnant English woman can accomplish. She says, "Since when are you not up for a challenge". He isn't comfortable with all the lying that will be necessary, but she reminds him of what's at stake if they don't. He gets up to start writing a letter to his cousin Jared asking him for his help. Then he wonders, "What the hell are we going to tell Murtagh?"
The next morning on the dock they're talking to Murtagh who's chaffing about not knowing what the reason is for the deception, and being upset that they're still hiding it from him. Jamie reassures him that they will reveal the reason to him at the proper time.
Three weeks later they are talking to Jared Fraser (Robert Cavenah) who is suspicious about Jamie's motives for his new interest in politics. So Jamie bares his back to show him the source of his passion to help the Jacobites. Jared is sorry he doubted him, and offers to help him. Jared says he's been putting off a trip to the West Indies, and they can help each other if Jamie takes over the wine business in his absense. Jared offers him the run of his house in Paris and 25% of the profits. Jamie holds out for 35%, and Jared is impressed and says he'll do just fine.
While Jamie was inspecting the shipment in port, Claire was walking along the docks appreciating the fresh air when she sees a man being carried off a ship and notices he's covered in pox. She chases after them, and Jamie follows. The Captain of the Patagonia (Fabien Lucciarini) tried to keep her from inspecting the sick crewman. She waves Jamie back because he's not immunized. She has words with the port official (Christian Perez), who confirms his diagnosis and announces to the gathering crowd that she is correct, it is smallpox. The Comte St. Germain (Stanley Weber), the owner of the ship, shows up and tries to downplay the smallpox and keep the truth quite, but it's too late. The harbor master's only option is to burn the ship and cargo, which makes an enemy of the Comte, who tells them in French that they both will pay.
Then it's night and they're standing on the dock watching the ship burn. Jared says, "Make no mistake, the Comte will not forget what happened. You've made an enemy here today." Jamie says, "Another country, another enemy. Life with you is certainly never dull, Sassenach." Claire replies, "I will endeavor to be more dull if that will suit you better." Jamie reassures her with, "I wouldn't change you to save the world." They kiss and the ship continues burning.
Recap by Mary Girven
S02-E02: Not in Scotland Anymore — Directed by Metin Hüseyin; Written by Ira Steven Behr
The second episode of Season Two starts off with Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Claire (Caitriona Balfe) making love, then suddenly Claire morphs into Black Jack (Tobias Menzies), and Jamie stabs him repeatedly with a knife, getting blood everywhere. Jamie wakes up from the nightmare, shaken. Claire tries to comfort him reminding him that he's gone. Jamie knows he won't be able to get back to sleep, so he gets up to work on this week's receipts. Claire emphatically states, Black Jack Randall is dead! Jamie replies, I know. See you in the morning, Sassenach, then leaves their bedroom.
The next scene opens on an exterior view of Jarad's appartment. It is Paris, 1744. Claire's maid, Suzette (Adrienne-Marie Zitt) asks Claire why she persists in making her own bed, and folding her own clothes. The are walking down a grand circular stairway. Claire replies that it's habit, she's not used to having servants around attending her every need, but says "Fine. I'll endeavor to be sloppier in my personal habits." and Suzette is very happy.
Claire gets into a carriage and heads into town. She's reminiscing about that last time she had been in Paris, during the delerious celebration marking the end of the second world war. She had wanted to climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower, but the Nazi's had closed it during the occupation. Now it is 100 years before it even existed.
She spots an apothecary shop and goes inside where she meets Master Raymond (Dominique Pinon), who calls her "Madonna" and knowing that she's English, switches to her language. She picks up a vial labeled "Sang de Crocodile" (Crocodile Blood), smells it, and deduces that it contains mustard and thyme in walnut oil. She asks Master Raymond, "What on Earth do you use to make it smell so nasty?quot; He says, "I see your nose is not purely decorative, Madonna. Then he confirms that it IS in fact blood, and she guesses that it isn't crocodile blood. He confirms that it is pig's blood, which is much more available. He says, "Fortunately the ladies and gentlemen of the court are much more trusting and foolish than you are." Claire asks if he carries Nepita cataria (a.k.a. catnip), and Master Raymond asks if someone is having trouble sleeping. Claire confirms it is her husband. Master Raymond asks a few questions about the cause of his insomnia. Claire reveals that it is due to nightmares, and Master Raymond picks up some bottles (sounds like "Parle Vienna Officinalis" and "Omolus Opulus") and has his assistant, Delphine (Marieme Diouf), measure some out into a mortar and pestle to be ground up. He assumes that she's a professional, and she says, it depends on what he considers a professional. She admits that she's a healer. He guesses that she's Claire Fraser and she's surprised, wondering if he's a mind reader as well. He says he just has a excellent memory for names, and has heard hers recently when the Comte St. Germain told him all about her part in the burning of his pox-afflicted vessel. She frowns and asks him if he's friends with the Comte St. Germain. He smiles and says they are rivals, a pleasant term for enemies. And since she is his enemy as well, she must be his friend. Claire smiles and says she could use a friend. He offers her the ground up herbs as a gift. If she infuses it in a cup of tea at bedtime, he guarantees that he will keep her awake all night with his snoring, then demonstrates a very cute snore.
Jamie and Murtagh (Duncan LaCroix) are sword-fighting two-handed on a beautifully manacured palace grounds with an audience of interested on-lookers. Murtagh is pushing Jamie to use his mangled hand, goading him on with insults. Jamie is struggling but breaks free. Murtagh yells at the crowd in French to go away. Jamie reminds him that he can't blame them for gawking as dueling is illegal in France. Murtagh is very uncomfortable being in Paris and can't tolerate the stink of so many people. He admits that he finds himself longing for the company of Lard Bucket and Big Head. Jamie is amused and assumes he's talking about Rupert (Lard Bucket, although Jamie said Rupert would call it muscle) and Angus (Big Head, Jamie admits wee Angus does sport an unusually large head). He tells Murtagh, "I'm sure they miss your sunny countenance as well. Dinna fash, we won't be here forever." Murtagh replies, "No, but it will seem so." Murtagh wants to just kill Charles Stewart and be done with it. But Jamie says he's no assassin, and even killing the Prince Charlie wouldn't necessarily squash the rebellion as his father, King James, is still alive. Should they kill him too? Jamie says that they don't even know if Charles is in Paris, but Murtagh says he'll find him. "Is your longing for home worth the murder of a prince, and the king? No, for all we know the death of his son would make James even more determined to sit on the English throne." Murtagh, frustrated, says, "I talk of action, and you give me logic." Jamie counters, "Aye, well, if it's action you crave..." and they both throw down their swords and charge into each other.
Later at home, Jamie removes the brace supporting his mangled hand and takes off his sword belt handing it to the butler, Magnus (Robbie McIntosh). Claire asks him how his hand is and Jamie tells her it's mending. Then she hands him a letter from Jarad that just arrived. He reads it and hands it to her to read out loud:
His Royal Highness, Prince Charles Edward Stuart requests the company of one Lord Broch Tuarach, James Fraser to discuss such matters as the current political sutuation amongst the Scottish clans. His Royal Highness will be expecting you on the 18th of this month at half past sundown at the establishment of Maison de Madame Elise.
Claire asks what is that, and Jamie informs her it is a brothel. They exchange looks.
On the night in question, Jamie and Murtagh head to the upscale brothel to meetup with the Prince. Lots of distinguished looking men are there with fancy women on their laps. Jamie, Murtagh and the Prince are sitting at a table drinking wine, and Jamie says to the Prince that he'd like to discuss the reason for the meeting tonight. Charles replies that he was just about to suggest that very thing.
Madame Elise (Michele Belgrande-Hodgson) brings the crowd to attention in French with, "Gentlemen of noble birth and noble distinction...for your entertainment...and edification, I present you with...your wives." A bunch of the men are startled and knock the prostitutes off their laps, worried. The prince is amused saying, "Look at their faces, they're terrified."
The three "Wives" (Sarah MacGillivray, Natalie Spence, and Amy Drummond) enter the stage pointing fingers to the men saying "Naughty, Naughty, Naughty." Madame Elise is sympathetic, "Zounds! Such anger...such frustration. Your wives are lonely. Unhappy. What they need...is...Dildos!" as Madame Elise uncovers a tray of them. Everyone's clapping and laughing. Madame Elise tells them to "Take these as gifts...from the husbands...you never need miss...ever again! Need I say more? Except to inform you that these items...are available in this very establishment. For purchase or for rent. Gentlemen... I thank you." The Prince jumps up clapping. Murtagh makes a disparaging statement about the French men not being able to please their wives, and the Prince says he doesn't remember asking his opinion or inviting him there. Murtagh nods at Jamie and says, "Where he goes, I go."
The Prince says his friend, Jarad Fraser, claims Jamie is a man of substance, that he speaks his true mind in all matters. Charles hopes its so as he doesn't need another sycophant added to his acquaintances as he has too many already. He asks Jamie what the state of affairs are in Scotland. Will the clans respond to his call to arms and rise up against the traitorous English king? Jamie tells him that the Scottish clans can't even agree on the color of the sky, let alone put aside their own grievances and band together to fight the Brittish. Jamie doesn't think they'd be ready for many years to come. Prince Charlie clearly doesn't want to hear this and tells Jamie it sounds like damnable defeatist talk from a so-called Jacobite. Jamie tells him that he hates the English as much as any man and he carries the scars from 200 lashes on his back. He reminded him he asked for the truth and assures him that the truth is what he gave him. He asks the Prince if he'd rather hear honeyed words that lead him and all of Scotland to disaster. Charles says, "God demands that a Catholic king sit on the English throne. My father is that king." Jamie brings up the Rising of the '15. Charles adamantly asserts that he would not repeat the mistakes of Lord Mar, who hesitated when victory was within his grasp. He said, "Above all else, a leader must be decisive." Murtagh asks him if he'd ever been to Scotland. And Charles replied that regretfully he hadn't. He spent his early years in Italy where his father was in exile. Murtagh tells him that Scotland is a beautiful country, and it's people are of the land, simple people with no great love of outsiders. They'll fight, each other more than not, but he's asking them to shed their blood for what? To put a more sympathetic ass on the English throne. Is that cause enough for a cotter to exchange his sythe for a sword and charge into cannon? Jamie says, "It appears you've now heard the truth from two loyal Scots." Charles, looking very uncomfortable, counters with his claim that God's truth is the only truth that matters, and that it is God's will that he unite the clans. He says, "It is God's will that I am the beacon of light for I am, by divine right, the outstretched hand of God." Jamie looks at him like he's mad, then crosses himself. Charles continues, "Our cause shall succeed, but it cannot move forward without money, and money it shall have." They'll need the support of Joseph Duverney, the French Minister of Finance. Charles is in France unofficially, and can't be received at court, so he solicits Jamie's help by going in his place. "I see you have the heart of a true patriot, willing to risk my divine wrath in order to safeguard your countrymen." He demands that Jamie go to Louie's court and be his advocate for rebellion. "For your Prince, for the rightful King, and for God who sits in judgement of us all." Jamie agrees and kisses his ring. Then Charles states baldly that he's in need of a woman, or maybe two. So of course one of the prostitutes saunters by and catches his eye and he's off. Murtagh says in Gaelic, "Not too late...to slit his throat."
Back at the apartment Claire, Jamie and Murtagh are talking. Claire says she's proud of him for speaking his mind and winning a place at his side. Murtagh says, "He's a blockhead, and a dangerous one at that. He'll get us all killed if we don't stop him." Jamie says, "I wouldn't trust the Prince with Lallybroch's vegetable patch, let alone the fate of Scotland." Claire argues that it was just one meeting, and that Charles is not ready to set sail for Scotland anytime soon. There will be time to open his ears. Jamie doesn't think so because Charles won't listen to him or anyone, only to God. Claire reminds them that wars cost money, and he's helpless without funds. All they have to do is keep his war chest empty. Claire proposes that they can stop the rebellion by going to court.
The next step in the play Claire proposes is getting an invitation to Versailles, and their best hope is her friend Louise de Rohan. Claire states that she had known her for three months since they'd come to Paris. Louise is warm and friendly, and like most people of her class, superficial and frivilous on the surface. So she heads to Louise's house where Claire is watching while Louise is having her legs waxed. Claire is looking at Louise's monkey Collette, who is in a cage. Louise calls Mary into the room. Mary is small and shy and feels naked in her shift. Louise is only wearing a robe and offers to take it off to show Mary what naked means. Louise introduces Claire to Mary, and Mary shyly introduces herself to Claire as Mary Hawkins (Rosie Day). Claire believes she's heard her name before, but Mary doesn't believe they've met. Claire says it will come to her somehow. Claire asks Mary what brings her to Paris, and Mary tells her that her uncle Silis Hawkins is there on business. Louise chimes in that Mary is going to marry the Vicount Marigny, a widower of means. Claire recalls him as an older gentleman with w--- and points to her cheek. Mary supplies "warts, Yes, that's him" Claire sees her dilema and why she looks so pathetic. She assumes her uncle has arranged the marriage.
The man waxing Louise announces in French, "And the legs are finished. Is Madame ready for her next bit...of torture?" Louise asks for a minute from the "Vile monster!" Mary looks sick and tries to leave, but Louise won't let her go, saying that her legs are hairier than Collette's. "And no French man will suffer to bed a monkey." Mary wonders why she says such horrible things, and Louise lifts up the corners of Mary's mouth forming a pathetic smile. Then Louise tells Claire that since she wants to go to court, she will accompany Mary and her to Versailles. Claire asks if she can bring her husband along, and Louise frowns saying, "If you must, though you'd have more fun without him," (giving her a look). Then Louise tells Claire that she'll make her an appointment with a woman who will make her a dress fit for a queen.
Louise heads back to the lounge and plops down with her legs spread open. Mary looks horrified, and Claire looks intrigued as Louise tells them that the wax feels so warm and wonderful when it is put on, but so painful when it is pulled off. She says "Ahhh..." and then screams as her monkey jumps.
That night Jamie is in bed rubbing his mangled hand. Claire slides in next to him and brings his hand to her lips, then slides it down below. He's very surprised and asks what she's done to herself. "Your honeypot is bare!" She shows him her smooth legs too. She thinks he'll like the difference. He's curious and takes a look stating that it's more complicated than it looks thatched over. Very smooth. He feels like a lucky man because she's so daring. They start to make love, but then he remembers Black Jack again and pulls away. She suggests they just go to sleep and he rolls off cradling his hand.
Jamie and Murtagh are waiting downstairs as Claire starts to descend the stairway in a daring red dress. Jamie is scandalized and slaps Murtagh for looking. He says he can see her navel, she says he can't and that she helped design the dress. He realizes they don't have time to change and says she's going to need something to cover up. She says she's thought of that and produces a small fan. He tells her she'll need a larger fan.
The group, Louise, Mary, Claire, Jamie and Murtagh show up in a large, very crowded and elegantly decorated ballroom. Louise tells them that she is intimate with all the noble families, their genealogies and allegencies, and will be happy to introduce them to whomever they want. Claire suggests Monsieur Duverney is an interesting gentleman. Louise frowns and says oh no, he is a man of rather gross sensibilities. But if he's there, she'll find him.
Just then a beautiful woman runs up to Jamie, throws her arms around him and kisses him. And he embraces her back smiling, calling her by name. Claire gives him a look with a raised eyebrow. Jamie notices her and makes the introductions. She's and old friend, Annalisse de Marillac (Margaux Chalelier). Then he introduces Annalise to Claire. Annalise congratulates Claire for having won such a strong, passionate man. She asks Claire if he fought many duels to win her affection, and Claire replies that he won her heart without having to draw his sword. Jamie tells the story of the small, insignificant duel he fought over Annalise which ended in her marrying his opponent. Louise said how romantic that was, but Annalise quickly told them that he died, of smallpox. Then Annalise asks if she can steal Jamie away to meet the King as he's being dressed. Claire agrees, but suggests that Murtagh accompanies them.
Then we see King Louis XV of France (Lionel Lingelser) sitting quite literally on his throne significantly constipated with a room full of noble men, including his Religious Advisor (John-Christian Bateman). Jamie asks the Minister of the House (Kola Krause) to be introduced to the king as he can ease his majesty's suffering. So the man introduces them. Jamie suggests the king eat only Parritch for his breakfast. The king is disgusted and says he's never acquired a taste for peasant food. Still no luck with his objective, so Jamie states that maybe now would be a good time to start.
Meanwhile, several noblewomen have gathered and are talking about male members. The first one noblewoman (Anna Marie Cseh) points out a nobleman who can't keep his in his pants. Another one (Katharine Gwen) asks Claire what the English call it. Claire says she's heard it called "Peter" <lots of looks> then she says, "though there are others who prefer prick." The ladies look disgusted and insult the English and Claire's language, "No offense intended." Claire responds with, "None taken."
Louise spots Mary smiling and talking to a young gentleman and says to Claire, "That wicked little minx, she's found herself a lover even before the exchange of wedding vows." Claire doesn't think that's the case and excuses herself waving her fan and telling them she needs some air.
Louise spots Joseph Duverney (Marc Duret) sampling a whole tray of wine and tells him, "My lovely English friend...Lady Broch Tuarach...the red dress...has been most anxious to make your acquaintance." She offers to introduce them, but he refuses saying that he can do it himself, then heads off in her direction.
Duverney finds Claire seated in an open grotto rubbing her neck tiredly. He comes on strong thinking she is yearning for him. He worships her by attacking her feet first. She pushes him off into Jamie's arms, and he pushes him into the pond. Claire tells him who he's just assaulted. Apparantly, Duverney takes it all in stride as he climbs out of the water holding his wet wig. We see him trying to dry it out while apologizing to Jamie and Claire, blaming it on the king's champaign, and telling them that his wife would kill him if he was caught trying to make love to another woman.
King Louis approaches them with his mistress Madame Nesle de la Tourelle (Kimberly Smart), breasts exposed in a scandelous gown. They make a leg to him, and the king admonishes Duverney to keep his private matters private. Then he notices Jamie and reminds him of his Parritch advice. Jamie tells him, on his word, he won't regret it. Then the king takes a good long look at Claire before moving on. Nesle looks over Jamie and Murtagh, who's showing uncharacteristic interest. Jamie frowns at him and Murtagh's frown returns.
Then Murtagh says, "Cheating coward of a villain" in Gaelic and rushes away. Jamie follows and they discover the Duke of Sandringham (Simon Callow). Murtagh says, "Judas, you'll pay for your treachery" and pulls his sword out. Jamie quickly tells him to put it away as it means death to draw a weapon in the presence of the king. He violently puts it away muttering something in Gaelic.
The Duke is very cajoling and appears happy to see Jamie looking so healthy. He explains that Captain Jack Randall forced him to give him the Petition of Complaint. He had no choice whatsoever. He asks what they're doing in France, and Claire tells him that Jamie has been employed by his cousin Jared. The Duke is leaving for England tomorrow, but when he returns he wants a port and is willing to pay 20% over the asking price. Claire connives to have Jamie and Murtagh leave so she can have a word with the Duke alone. Claire confronts him about being on the same side as the Jacobites. Then Alexander Randall (Laurence Dobiesz) approaches and the Duke introduces him as his new secretary, explaining that he IS the brother of Jack Randall Esquire. He spills the beans that Black Jack is still alive. The Duke leaves Claire looking like the cat that swallowed the canary. Claire wonders if she should tell Jamie, or try to keep it from him. All this happens while fireworks are going off!
Recap by Mary Girven
S02-E03: Useful Occupations and Deceptions — Directed by Metin Hüseyin; Written by Anne Kenney
Claire (Caitriona Balfe) is asleep in bed when she is awoken by the sounds of a carriage outside her window. It is Jamie (Sam Heughan), returning home at dawn from a night out with Prince Charles. Jamie apologizes, but she does not seem too upset by it, either by her face or words, so we know this is not the first time it has happened. His quick words and swift movements reveal an agitation, and we learn that Prince Charles is insisting on having a meeting with Finance Minister Duverney, and that Jamie has been trying to put off introducing them for as long as possible. He is not sure if the minister will even agree to meet with the prince, but that he has more pressing matters to deal with, such as the inspector coming to see Jared's warehouses. Then he reads off his laundry list of tasks for the day, which ends with another night out with the prince before he will be home again. All the while the butler Magnus (Robbie McIntosh) is picking up Jamie's discarded clothing and helping him to dress in a fresh outfit as he talks. (Apparently a new silver and gray embroidered silk vest is all he needs to change in order to start this new day).
Claire seems disappointed and concerned, and Jamie speculates that stopping the rebellion is worth losing sleep. She expresses her worry that it is too much sleep and he assures her that he will be able to sleep on the carriage to Versailles for chess with the minister. Trying to kiss her, she pulls back. He understands, though, since he smells like smoke. She adds that he also smells like cheap perfume (since the place they spend their nights is a popular brothel) and that it is not helping her morning sickness. Hanging his head out of the window on the carriage ride here apparently did not help dismiss the smell still clinging to his clothes and hair. Sending her back to bed so she can rest before tea with Louise and the other ladies, she makes a snide remark and he insists that she might learn something that would help them with their cause. As he is leaving, Jamie realizes that his little wooden snake is missing from his sporran and beseeches Claire to have the servants search for it in his absence. He tells her to give his regards to &quoq;her ladies" and he is down the stairs and out the door before he can hear her grumble that they are not "her ladies".
Claire is dutifully at tea later that day, however, and playing cards across the table from Louise (Claire Sermonne) in her ornately decorated sitting room. A small monkey plays in its cage behind her and a couple of young women talk quietly on the couch nearby. Mary Hawkins (Rosie Day) sits beside them, the same pained look on her face that we have seen at our previous encounter with her. All of a sudden the girl blurts out that she cannot marry a French man. Both confused, Claire and Louise turn to Mary to hear more of an explanation. Mary seems hesitant to say more, assuring Claire that Jamie is a kind and gentle man and does not "trouble" her in the way Mary has heard French men do. Claire seems to have a suspicion about where this is going, but lets Mary continue. The girl then offers a very awkward description of sex and Louise does a very poor job of hiding her laughter behind her hand of cards. She even mocks the girl, pretending to be shocked by this revelation, and finally laughing loudly at her. Claire, in a more tactful way, tells Mary that they need to have a talk. Mary, upset by Louise's laughter, insists that "Men don't do things like that where I come from." Louise giggles and says, "And where is that? The moon?"
When she says she is from Seaford, in Sussex, Claire suddenly remembers why the girl's name had seemed familiar to her when they first met. A flashback to her and Frank (Tobias Menzies) and an old Bible he found in his grandmother's attic, reveals that Mary Hawkins was the wife of Jonathan Wolverton Randall, and his several times great-grandmother. Claire heads home, realizing that she had always known Randall could not have died in Wentworth, or else Frank would never have existed. She had repressed the knowledge, refusing to dwell on the connection between that evil man and her first husband (yet to be born). Now she understands that in order to ensure Frank's existence, that Jonathan Randall would need to survive at least another year so he could father a child with Mary Hawkins.
Still agitated by these ponderings, and the knowledge she has yet to share with anyone that Jack Randall is still alive, she returns home. Magnus the butler tells her about the numerous invitations they have received for social events that week alone and then returns a lace accessory to her. She studies it for a moment and then asks Magnus where Suzette (Adrienne-Marie Zitt), her hand maid is, because she had given it to her to mend. Magnus seems reluctant to answer and Claire finds the girl in bed with Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix), unashamed by their nakedness or being caught in the middle of "things". Claire storms out of the girl's room.
She is busy mending the lace herself when Murtagh finds her, hair down and his shirt hanging out of his pants. He refuses to apologize and Claire informs him that his time is his own. She is clearly upset, though, that he is not using that time to help them thwart this rebellion, especially when it is keeping Jamie out at all hours of the night. She also has a problem with him keeping her maid from her work, and makes a smart comment about it being the middle of the day. When he asks her when she became so "prudish" about sex, she blows up at him, reminding him of who runs this house. She immediately regrets her words, though, and apologizes to him.
Realizing something more is going on with her, he stays. She admits to him that she has learned that Randall is still alive. He does not believe her at first, insisting that he had seen the dead body himself, but when she explains how she learned of it, he allows that it may be true. He agrees with her decision not to tell Jamie, since the first thing he would do would be to run off looking for his revenge, and end up arrested and hanged, regardless of whether he succeeded in murdering Randall that time or not. She feels guilty and distraught at keeping it from Jamie, but Murtagh reminds her that it is to save his life, and that he will keep the secret with her. She thanks him and he leaves to finish his .business. with Suzette. Claire asks him about birth control, but upon realizing his confusion, she determines to retrieve something for Suzette herself.
Meanwhile, at Versailles, Jamie is deep in thought and conversation with Finance Minister Duverney (Marc Duret) over a chess board. The hall is lined with occupied chess tables, while ladies chat at benches along the side. The minister is commenting about how their funds are depleted by the war with Austria and how the King of France would be reluctant to fund another. He is more interested in chess than politics and brags about beating Jamie in three moves. Jamie comments on the connection between chess and politics, making a move that shocks the minister. He insists he will beat Jamie and there ensues a flurry of movements, the minister appearing desperate while Jamie leans back, relaxed and confident. When Jamie makes a final move, the minister does not hesitate to concede the victory and gets up, as if to leave. They shake hands and we realize it is not the first time Jamie has beaten him at this game.
Jamie tuns the conversation back to his political purposes. He reminds the minister of a promise he had made, offering assistance when Jamie needs it. The minister suggests he tries losing a game sometimes, but Jamie insists he respects him too much to do that. The minister gives him permission to respect him less. Relenting, the minister asks how he can help Jamie, and Jamie asks him to tell Prince Charles what he had just told him. As they talk, they have switched sides and are preparing for another chess match. The minister is confused by this request, but Jamie explains that it is for the good of his people. The minister explains that he cannot speak in an official capacity, but Jamie encourages it to be unofficial and in a location known for secrecy — Madame Elise's brothel. He says he can tell his wife the truth, that he is out with Jamie, and the minister, liking this plan, turns his attention to their new chess game, bringing the metaphor of chess and politics full circle.
We see Claire again, this time in a run down part of town near Master Raymond's (Dominique Pinon). Who should be there, whispering about keeping his secrets, but the Comte St. Germain (Stanley Weber) who she had her run in with in the first episode of the season. Master Raymond sees that he recognizes her and they have a tense exchange before the Comte slinks off with his "secret" purchase. When she challenges Master Raymond about his friendliness with his enemies, he remarks that sometimes a common interest requires working with people one does not like or trust.
He brings her inside and she reveals that she is looking for something that would stop a pregnancy. Under his scrutiny, she clarifies that it is for someone else and not for her. Master Raymond is happier with this and sends his assistant Delphine (Marieme Diouf) to retrieve the "Mugwart" contraceptive from his store room. As he is climbing down from his ladder, she inspects a jar of white powder and he, seeming nervous, rushes over to her to take it away. It is a deadly poison called "Monkshood" and he admits to having it in his store, but insists that what he sells his customers is actually an impostor called "Bitter Cascara" that causes immediate physical discomfort, but does not actually kill the person. He said that his customers attribute the recovery to spiritual or divine reasons and everyone comes out all right in the end.
Changing the subject, he shifts it back to the contraceptive and she explains that it is for her hand maid, which he finds interesting, commenting that it is usually the hand maid buying it for the lady so she can hide her affairs. Claire prides herself on being an unusual lady, but realizes that she is not so unusual anymore, that Paris has changed her. Master Raymond suggests she try using her medical skills at the charity hospital, since they are always in need of skilled healers. He comments that they depend on volunteers, and that the others are not as perceptive as her, or as much in need of helping others. Claire seems to glow at the suggestion.
Murtagh helps Claire out of the carriage at the charity hospital later that afternoon, and we see the steps crowded with dirty, plainly dressed people, scarfing down the food being handed out by the nuns at the top of the stairs. Murtagh is not impressed, so she tells him to stay with the carriage. He points out how upset Jamie is going to be when he hears about this, but she insists that he will be happy if she is. As she walks away, a beggar approaches Murtagh and he pushes him off.
Inside, the dark halls are lines with rows of sick people lying on cots. One of the workers, Sister Angelique (Audrey Brisson), asks Claire if it is what she thought, and she responds that it is. Claire sees a couple of the "physicians" they depend on, such as a butcher who is there expert in muscles and bones and another man who makes trusses acting as their urinoscopist. She also is introduced to Bouton (played by a cute, little terrier named Scamp). She is surprised to see a dog there, but Mother Hildegarde (Frances de la Tour) is not far behind. Claire explains why she is there, but the Mother is skeptical of her "medical expertise" and asks the Sister to find Claire something to do.
This "something to do" ends up being emptying chamber pots into a large wheeled pot that she is pushing along. The Mother sees her working and continues to watch as Claire, curious as always, spies a urine sample near a sick woman's (Seylan Baxter) bed. Wondering what the purpose of a urine sample would be during this time period before litmus paper and the like, she takes a dab on her finger and tastes it. The Mother approaches and asks if she can tell what the woman has. Claire, startled, but not shaken, asks the woman if she is thirsty. She admits she is, and always hungry, but never able to put on weight no matter how much she eats. Claire diagnoses the woman with diabetes (called "sugar sickness" in that time) and informs the Mother that she will not live the month and that there is nothing they can do to save her. The Mother reports that it is the same diagnosis one of the other physicians gave earlier, and is surprised to find a woman who could diagnose like that. She sends her to assist Sister Angelique with dressing another boy's wounds, rather than continuing with the chamber pot chore.
Over in the brothel, we glimpse a young boy moving through the crowd, pick-pocketing one of the men, unnoticed. The finance minister is explaining to the prince how the current situation with Austria has caused businessmen to go elsewhere to avoid tax increases. The prince claims to understand, but the minister is distracted by the woman swirling around among the tables. The prince claims he has already raised almost the full amount needed to fund the war, which stops both of the other men in their tracks. The minister, after glancing to Jamie, apologizes for misunderstanding the prince's situation and wonders what his purpose in meeting is then. The prince brags that wealthy members of the British aristocracy believe in his father's claim to the throne and have promised him large sums of money. He misinterprets the look on Jamie's face as relief and awkwardly touches his face. Jamie very calmly removes his hand while covering his expression with a more appropriate one.
Prince Charles (Andrew Gower) offers an alliance with France if the King agrees to fund the remainder of what he needs, after the war is won. The minister, intrigued by promises of an alliance, says he will speak with the king about it. Jamie realizes that his endeavors have failed. Thankfully, the minister insists on evidence first, which Charles readily agrees to, kissing the minister's hand. They all celebrate the new alliance with a toast.
Jamie, upset by what he has learned, returns home to find Claire still out. He stays up, working on correspondence and the books for the business, but is clearly agitated and concerned with her lack of appearance. It is well past dark by the time she returns, excited and spilling over with stories of what she has been up to at the hospital. Murtagh complains about having to listen to her stories all the way home, and Jamie asks irritably where she has been, not turning from his papers yet. She tells him she was at the hospital, which makes him turn and wonder what had taken her there. Murtagh can sense the tension and excuses himself to get something to eat, whispering an "I told you so" to her on the way out. Claire explains how they needed volunteers and about her skills being useful there. She enthuses about the Mother and the story of the urine sample and tasting it, which Jamie does not find as amusing as she does.
Claire asks him what is wrong, and that she thought he would happy for her. Instead he points out the pregnancy and all the diseases she is exposing their child to. She insists that she thought of these things and that she has no intention of treating contagious patients if they have something she is not immune too already. Jamie does not understand why she would even take that risk, and she explains about how she needed to feel useful and to have a purpose in her days. This nettles him further, as he reminds her about the rebellion they are trying to stop. He wants to know how working in the hospital is going to help them save Scotland. She asks him what he wants her to do, but the best he can come up with is that he wants her home to help him when he has a problem.
At this point he finally explains why is truly upset and how Prince Charles deceived him, too, despite all the time they had been spending together. Claire insists that the alliance between France and England will not happen for another hundred years. Jamie realizes now that Prince Charles is smarter than he had let on to Jamie, has been keeping secrets from him, and has no idea what to do next.
Trying to smooth things over, she apologizes to Jamie who has returned to his books, and begins rubbing his shoulders. She knows this was all her idea and that the work is falling squarely on his shoulders, but assures him she wants to help however she can. That is why he had come home to find her, but instead she was out "indulging" herself. He pushes her hands away and returns to his writing. Not to be so easily brushed off, she walks around to the other side of his desk, facing him. She corrects him, saying it was not an "indulgence", but helping people, admitting at the same time that it does make her feel good and gives her life meaning. Jamie wants to know what gives his life meaning or makes him feel good right now, while he is spending time with the prince to gain his secrets and undermine the rebellion. Ignoring her when she is clearly upset, he storms down the stairs and out of the house.
Murtagh and Suzette, who have been canoodling nearby, watch him go. He comments that he had known that would not go well, and Suzette chimes in with her knowledge of their marriage bed (which we know is not good since he is still having nightmares about Jonathan Randall whenever they grow intimate).
Back at Madame Elise's (Michele Belgrande-Hodgson) brothel she shows off the work of a painter who is working on a Painted Lady (Grace Calder) wearing a white mask. She turns around, lifts up her hair, and we realize that she is painted backwards! We see the young boy again, and this time Jamie spies him pick-pocketing the wealthy patrons. The boy is small and quick, and almost eludes Jamie in the subsequent chase through the nearby homes, but Jamie outwits him and catches him anyway. The boy threatens to tell his wife that he has been sleeping with the prostitutes if he tries to turn him in to the police, but Jamie knows Claire will not believe that. Instead, he tells the boy he will inform Madame Elise about his actions, and the boy seems genuinely scared, insisting that he does not do it every night, just those when they are very busy and the men are very drunk. Jamie expresses his interest in the boy and, after assuring the lad that he does not mean it the way the boy thought at first (adamantly stating that he is not a whore), offers him work. Turning the boy upside down, he shakes everything from his pockets to the ground and then tells the boy that he will not pick-pocket for anyone but him now. He lets him keep everything now spilled on the ground, except for the little wooden snake he recognizes as his own. After spying the snake and being confronted with his theft, the boy asks Jamie how much he will pay him, and their agreement is secured.
Clarie is tossing and turning in bed at home and then hears a crashing downstairs. She hurries down to investigate and, as she is wearing a very thin gown, it is possible we are starting the see the swelling of her pregnant belly. She finds the boy in the large dining room, eating a chicken leg as he props his feet up on the table. He jumps to his feet and bows, complimenting her on the size of her breasts. She pulls her robe more tightly around herself and Murtagh smacks the boy on the head, pointing out that he said the same thing to Suzette. The boy is confused, seeing it as a compliment and that the women in the brothel are usually flattered by his comments. In fact, his compliment to Suzette is how he received the chicken. Jamie, appearing in the hall outside, instructs Murtagh to take the boy upstairs where Suzette is making him a bath in the servants' quarters and finding him something to sleep in. The boy bows again to Claire and wishes her a "good night" before Murtagh whisks him away, followed by a word of caution from Jamie about guarding his sporran from the boy.
Jamie tries to walk away, but Claire asks him for clarification on the boy's presence. We learn that the boy has been renamed "Fergus" (Romann Berrux), since his given name Claudel is not a masculine enough one. We also learn that he has hired him to steal the letters men carry to and from Prince Charles so they can better learn his secrets. Claire compliments him on the good plan and he simply thanks her and heads upstairs to bed.
A montage ensues, where we see Fergus pick-pocketing letters, Jamie spending time with Prince Charles who continues to spout his political rhetoric without revealing details of his plans, Claire in the hospital with Mother Hildegarde, and Jamie and Murtagh trying to piece together the parts of the rebellion from the letters and if there is actually an English conspiracy as Prince Charles claims. Staying with them, we learn that others are eavesdropping on these letters before they are, which is why the letters are in code. However, it is a code Jamie can easily break, but there is nothing substantial in the letters. One letter, though, contains a sheet of music written in German. Both of them are clearly tired, but this sheet of music catches Murtagh's attention. Jamie suggests finding a music teacher who can also speak German, and Murtagh knows of someone, but not someone Jamie is going to like having to ask help from.
In the hospital, Claire is helping examine a patient who seems to have a secondary infection somewhere, but that they are having difficulty locating it. Mother Hildegarde brings Bouton over and instructs him to smell the patient's mouth. He does not seem to find anything interesting there, so she asks the dog to inspect the rest of the man, warning him to be careful of the man's broken leg. Sniffing the offending limb, Bouton immediately begins to bark. Claire protests that the wound seemed to have healed perfectly, but when Mother Hildegarde squeezes on either side of the small scab, it opens immediately with pus. Claire reopens the wound with a scalpel and we are rewarded with a view of even more pus. Using forceps, she reaches into the wound and removes the cause of the infection: a dirty, rusty nail. Mother Hidegarde is impressed over Claire's lack of concern over the pus and blood, as well as the lack of hesitation in using the scalpel and forceps on him.
Jamie finds her there and Claire is concerned by his presence. He seems reluctant to ask for help. It is Mother Hildegarde that Murtagh has recommended he show the music to. She takes them to the piano in her quarters, but is hesitant to assist with something illegal or dangerous. Claire vouches that Jamie would not be asking if it was not important, and the Mother trusts her. Mother Hildegarde recognizes the work as she plays it as something a friend of hers had sent her recently. She is referring to Johann Sebastian Bach. Claire surprises the Mother by recognizing the name, since he is not famous and his work is not popular yet. She remarks that her friend's work is clever, but lacks the heart. The music Jamie had brought her was a poor imitation of Bach's work, with frequent key changes, some for no apparent reason. They realize that the key to the code in the letters is related to the key changes in the music.
Back at home, Claire, Jamie, and Murtagh pour over the notes, now that they know how to decipher the code. The deciphered letter proves that Prince Charles' claim is real, and is signed by someone named "S". While the promised 40,000 pounds is not as substantial an amount as the prince had bragged, it might still be enough to convince the minister and the king to fund the remainder of the amount needed. The author talks about being back at the end of the month to solidify the deal. At the same moment, Claire and Jamie realize that "S" is most likely the Duke of Sandringham, who they have had previous dealings with. This letter reveals that he is playing both sides, protecting himself no matter who ends up winning the war. Jamie believes he can convince the duke that it is a bad investment, which would stop the rebellion as planned. Excited, he hurries into the adjoining room for some whiskey to toast with.
Murtagh whispers a reminder to her about who works for the duke, and how meeting with the duke and his assistant will open Jamie to the knowledge that Jonathan Randall is still alive. He insists that she should tell him now, before he finds out himself, but she is hesitant. When Jamie returns, though, gushing about how good it feels to have solved one of the problems they are facing, she cannot do it. They toast to Mother Hildegarde and to Claire, for being there when he needs her. Jamie catches the glance that Murtagh and Claire share, but she brushes it away and he kisses and hugs her. She shares a look over his shoulder with Murtagh, who is displeased, shaking his head.
The episode begins with someone removing the pin from a coach wheel and then putting the cover (hubcap) back on. He has a large birthmark on his right hand.
The next schene has Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Duverney (Marc Duret) playing cards at a palace with Claire watching. Duverney asks the couple if they've thought of a name for their baby. Claire jumps in saying she was thinking of Lambert if it is a boy, after her uncle. Jamie didn't like that idea much — too English sounding. His suggestion is Dalhousie, after Dalhousie Castle. Claire argues that it sounds more like a sneeze. The Comte St. Germain wanders by and says in French, "He'll have you in two moves, Fraser." Jamie realizes that the Comte is right and concedes the game. Duverney says they should consider it a draw since Jamie is clearly distracted. He prefers a clean victory and looks at Claire meaningfully. Claire guiltily leaves looking for something else to do.
A servant offers her a goblet of wine, she drinks some, and gets violently sick. The Comte St. Germain looks on with interest. Jamie picks her up and whisks her away.
They're back at Jarad's apartment and Claire is feeling much better. She doesn't think it was poison, but remembers a bitter aftertaste. Maybe Bitter Cascara? Jamie hands her a cup of Marshmallow Leaf tea, which she says should counter the effects. Jamie asks about the bairn, but Claire assures him that the baby should be fine. He asks if she thinks it was the work of St. Germain, and she agrees that he might have bribed a servant to put the Cascara in the wine, and remembers how stragely he was staring at her. Jamie said that if it was St. Germain, he's going to make him suffer, and Claire says she'd pay good money to watch it. But they don't have any proof, and a public scandal could cause the Prince to distance himslef from Jamie (thwarting their plans).
Claire is still having some discomfort and asks Jamie to distract her by telling her about what is going on with Duverney. Jamie tells her that Duverney has spoken to the king about supporting Prince Charles, and the prospect of an alliance with England has the king intrigued. Claire says that a Franco-Brittish aliance is a fantasy and that Charles knows that. Jamie tells her that if Charles secures the money from the Duke of Sandringham (Simon Callow) then the king will likely join them as well. He suggests that they host a dinner for the Duke to introduce him to Prince Charles. The Duke will want to get his measure, and they might be able to sour that relationship by staging things so that Charles exposes himself as the delusional poppenjay that he is. Claire agrees that it's a good plan, but Jamie can see by her face that she is upset by it. She says she needs to tell him something, and then reveals that she knows that Jack Randall is still alive, and how she knows. She's expecting Jamie to fly into a rage, but instead, Jamie smiles and says, "This is wonderful news!" He tells her that missing seeing Black Jack Randall die has plagued him for months. Claire is afraid he is going to go back to Scotland, but Jamie reassures her that he is not so foolish to give the hangman a second chance at him, nor is he going to abandon their task, but she's given him something to hold onto, something to look forward to. He sees it as a gift and thanks her, kissing her and her baby bump.
The next morning Claire passes Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) and he notes that Jamie is in an especially cheery mood. She reveals that she told him that Black Jack Randall was still alive. "Don't know what you were so worried about!" and walks off cheerfully.
A coach takes her to the steps near the Apothecary. When Claire sees Master Raymond (Dominique Pinon), she tells him sternly that she was violently ill last night. That someone tried to poison her. She almost died, or could have lost her child. She asks him point-blank if he sold Bitter Cascara to St. Germain? He replied that he had only sold it to one person in the last months, a servant he didn't recognize. That person could have been working for Monsieur Comte, but he swore he didn't know.
Delphine (Marieme Diouf) interrupts them saying that they are being watched, so he tells Claire to follow him in a safe place. He tells her that the king is not enamored of the mystical arts and they must be wary not to invoke his ire.
Claire looks around intrigued by the things on shelves all around her. She picks up a very old looking skull. It looks like a small dinosaur skull. Master Raymond tells her that he's fascinated by things not of this time.
Master Raymond senses that there is something on her mind, and she confirms that she's worried about an old friend. He asks her his name, and she tells him it is Frank. Master Raymond asks if he is in danger, and she states that she believes his future is in doubt. "The bones will give us an answer," he replies and pulls out and empty horn glass that appears empty. He asks her to look again, and she sees bones in the bottom. He tells her it was a slight of hand, a trick he does to amuse his customers. She recognizes the bones from when she traveled in Africa with her uncle, but the Zulu use chicken bones. He tells her to cast the bones on a zebra hide that he pulls onto a table. Raymond admits that he can't see Frank's fate, but he is certain she will see him again. She's surprised by this.
Master Raymond pulls out a necklace and tells her that for the moment, she is his concern. He gives it to her and says that it will change color in the presence of poison. She asks questioningly if this magic stone will keep her safe. He says that some call it nature and some call it magic, and he can certainly charge more when they do, but for her, "Madonna", today, there is no charge. Then he winks at her.
The next scene is in Louise de Rohan's (Claire Sermonne) house where she is showing off her new coocoo clock (it's 4 pm) to Claire and Mary Hawkins (Rosie Day). Claire whispers to Louise that she said it was urgent. Louise asks Mary to fetch some food to feed Collette, her monkey, reminding her to keep her fingers out of the cage. She informs Claire that her monkey bites everyone but her.
They sit down and Louise tells Claire that the situation she summoned her for is quite delicate. She hesitantly states that she is with child, and not by her husband as they haven't been intimate in months. She asks Claire, who she assumes knows about such things, to help her. Claire says she can make a decoction of Barberry Leaves and Black Hellebore. Louise looks worried and thinks it sounds evil, and Claire assures her it is nasty stuff, poison really, that will rid her of the child but it can also kill her. Louise asks, "But what other choice do I have?" Claire asks her if she wants the baby, and she assures her that she does because it is hers and her lover's, but if Jules learns of the baby, he'll have their marriage annulled. He could have her arrested for adultery or worse, banish her to a convent. Claire suggests that Jules might be persuaded that the child is his, but Louise is agast that she's suggesting she sleep with her husband. Her lover would be furious! How can she raise a child with a man who is not the father? Claire reasons that the only important thing is that the child is brought up with love.
Back at the apartment, Claire is asleep when Jamie cheerfully plops on the bed and kisses her, then starts taking off his clothes and asking about her day. She assumes he'd had a good day too by his attitude. He appears a little tipsy, but climbs on top of her and pulls his shirt off. She notices bite marks on his leg, and asks him about it, incensed. He says, "Yeah, she did get a wee bit carried away." "She? Are you referring to that brunette whore that Fergus is always talking about?" Jamie tells her no, it was a different girl entirely, which didn't help his case any. Claire asks how this different girl entirely managed to bite his thighs. He tells her there is a simple explaination, and she demands to know what it is. He says he doesn't think a gently reared lady like herself would be familiar with the term, "soixante-neuf". Claire storms out of bed telling him that she knows what "sixty-nine" is. Jamie steps in deeper by saying that she was rather insistant about it, while examining the bite marks on both of his thighs. He thinks she would have settled for the six and let the nine go hang. Claire is furious and says, "I suppose she was so insistant you just had to accomodate her!" Jamie jumps off the bed stating emphatically that she has to believe him: nothing happened. Claire asks if she's supposed to believe that he got those bites defending his virtue. And Jamie admits that he was tempted, he wanted to badly, and he was filled with lust. Finally he realizes that he's not explaining the situation properly. Claire agrees, because the only thing he's explained is that while he's barely touched her in months, tonight he was driven mad with passion by some whore. He says, "Yes — No, that's the great thing, don't you see? I've tried for so long to find a way back to you, but to not see that bastard's face every time I take you in my arms, but tonight I started to feel like a man again." Claire yelled, "With another woman!" He reassured her, "Nothing happened! It was you that actually made me believe it was possible in the first place." "Me?" "Aye, you told me Randall was alive, and now I can be the one to end his life. I've lifted something from my heart. I began to feel; I stir up those feelings inside myself, so I can feel that way again with my wife." Claire is distraught! "You had to stir yourself up with a whore before you could bring yourself to be with me!" "No, that's not what... You know I've been struggling for a long time." "Struggling! Do you know what I've been struggling with? Trying to be patient with you, and understanding, and all the while I've been dealing with carrying our child." "Of course I do!" Claire reminds him that they've barely even talked about it. They hadn't even talked about baby names until Duverney brought it up at their STUPID chess game! She feels like she's been going through all of this on her own. But Jamie tells her, "I'm here, with you, and we will have this child together. But I don't think you understand what it's been like for me, since what happened at Wendworth." Claire yells, "Well then TELL ME, God damn it! Talk to me, make me understand!"
Jamie thinks for a bit, then says, "There's this place inside me, a place I think everyone has that they keep to themselves. A fortress where the most private part of you lives. Maybe it's your soul. The bit that makes you yourself, and not anyone else. But after Wentworth it was like my fortress had been blown apart. The thing that once lived there was suddenly exposed, out in the open, without shelter, without... That's where I've been ever since, Claire. Naked, alone.Trying to hide under a blade of grass. I think it best I sleep elsewhere tonight." Claire clutches her belly as he leaves the bedroom.
Next we see her in her robe looking for Jamie, then opening a door and finding him asleep on a sofa. He wakes up and looks at her as she drops the robe and climbs on top of him. He says, "Claire..." but she stops him with, "Come find me Jamie. Find me; find us." Then they make love very tenderly.
A little while later they are laying together and Jamie says, "Remember my telling you I was lost." She counters with, "You were trying to hide under a blade of grass..." He says, "I think, perhaps, you've built me a lean-to, at least, and a roof...to keep out the rain."
They hear noises on the roof and Jamie puts his shirt on to investigate. She gets up too and puts on her robe, and he grabs a knife. Then suddenly someone is knocking on the window, calling out "James". Jamie opens it and Prince Charles (Andrew Gower) stumbles in saying, "Forgive me, I don't usually arrive so... without ceremony or at such an unsocial hour." Jamie puts down the knife and says, "My house is at your service, Your Highness." Jamie closes the window and the Prince sits down on a sofa. Jamie makes the introductions. Claire notices that the Prince's right hand is bandaged and asks if he's been hurt. He says indeed he's suffered a ghastly and painful injury, asks if she'll have a look at it, and then demands a whisky too. As she unwraps the makeshift bandage he explains that he found himself in a rather embarrasing position in the house of a "friend". He was forced to flee out the window onto the roof, then realized that their house was just down the road. Then he blurts out, "She swares she loves me countless times, then tonight, she spurns me without warning. We were quarreling when her husband arrived home early. God is forever testing me, placing obstacles in my path. I've overcome every one of them; I'll overcome this one too. I won't be deterred! MARK ME, I will win her back!"
As Claire is examining his injury, she informs everyone that she doesn't think it will require sutures and should heal quickly. "It appears to be a bite", looking sideways at Jamie, "An epidemic around here." Prince Charles says, "A pet...it bites everyone apart from her. Ill tempered flea bitten beast." Claire guesses the bite was from a monkey.
Later when Jamie and Claire are alone, they're speculating about Charles and Louise. Jamie says it makes sense as they are both dreamers. Claire adds that they both live in a fantasy world, and are perfect for each other. At the same time they both come to the same conclusion, that they can use Charles' and Louise's affair to their advantage. They can invite them both to the dinner they're hosting next week, along with her husband, and if Charles hasn't heard about the baby by then, they can make sure that he does right in front of the Duke, and Charles will come unhinged. They can use Charles' broken heart to break his back. Claire asks if this makes them bad people, and Jamie replies that the way he sees it they're doing a bad thing for a good reason. Claire asks, "Isn't that what all bad people say?" They kiss, and are clearly much more at ease together.
One Week Later: The massive dinner table (14 seats) is being set very elegantly by servants as the house prepares for the Duke's dinner party. Claire is leaving the house in a hurry as Jamie reminds her about the party that evening and asks where she's going. She replies that there's been a massive explosion at the Royal Armory and several of the victims have gone to the hospital, besides Madamme Vionnet never lets her near the kitchen and she'd rather go somewhere she's needed. She promises to be home before sunset. Jamie tells her to take Murtagh and Fergus (Romann Berrux) with her. As an aside to Fergus, he tells him to have her home in time for dinner if he expects to eat himself. Fergus gives him his word, and they take off towards the hospital.
Later Murtagh and Fergus are waiting for Claire outside the hospital when Mary steps out to inform them that Madamme Fraser asked her to inform them that it would be another hour. Fergus is very upset by this as he'd promised Milord. Mary says they'll hurry.
Fergus tells Murtagh that it's a shame Miss Hawkins is so sad. Murtagh disagrees stating that hen was smiling from ear to ear. Fergus is surprised that he couldn't see that she'd been crying. Murtagh insists that he saw no crying, and Fergus tells him that's why he'll die alone, with his hand. Murtagh looks even more dour than usual. Fergus continues to explain things to him, stating that she's promised to Vicomte Marigny, but she's in love with another. Murtagh says, "In love? But you just said that she's sad." Fergus says he knows, but there is a contradition, because, in spite of the crying, she's wearing perfume. And there is a spring in her step, and her "speach that does not flow, now is a sparkling stream." Murtagh has had it and says, "One. I dinna care. Two: A man does not concern himself wi' the affairs of women....&quit; Changing gears, "Suzette, the ladies maid, is she in love with anyone?" Fergus answers, "Her? Oui, with any man that walks past her door."
Inside the hospital, Claire is assisting Monsieur Florez (Niall Greig Fulton) who is trying to set a badly broken leg. Mary is helping out too. Monsieur Florez nails a peg into the side of the leg and the man stops yelling, relieved. Claire says that's incredible and asks him what he did. He replies that there is a nerve there, and if you are fortunate enough to pierce it directly, it numbs the sensation in the lower extremity. She holds the foot steady and he sets the bone. He gives her some cream in a jar and says it will ease the pain of the wounds. Mary rubs a generous amount on her hands, and Claire grabs some too. Claire asks what it is, and he says it is "Hanged Man's Grease. Rendered fat from hanged criminals." Another patient cries out and he leaves them. Claire and Mary look at their hands with faces. Claire suggests that Mary step out side for some air, and she replies, "I have to wash my hands first," grabbing a towel as she leaves.
Mother Hildegard (Frances de la Tour) approaches Claire as she asks her, "Where would he get such a thing?" She replies that when he's not with them, he serves as His Majesty's Royal Executioner. They take what God sends them. Still the bulk of their physicians are better than nothing, but she says, "You, Madame, are a great deal better than nothing." Claire thanks her.
Outside, the groomsman is removing the broken carriage wheel with Murtagh looking on with a frown. Claire leaves the hospital with Mary. Murtagh tells her about the wheel being broken and that he's sent Fergus to tell Jamie that they'll be late. She's frustrated that they'll be late for dinner, and decides that they'll walk home quickly.
Back at the apartment guests are starting to arrive. Magnus (Robbie McIntosh), the butler, announces "His Grace, the Honorable Clarence Marlebone, Third Duke of Sandringham." The Duke, along with his secretary, approach Jamie with his hand out for a kiss, and he is all flattery saying, &Jamie, what a vision of elegance, a man who always manages to look fashionable whatever the setting." Jamie welcomes him, then his secretary steps forward with a bow and says, "Pleased to meet you, Lord Broch Tuarach." The Duke states that Alex Randall (Laurence Dobiesz) is his secretary, but then seems excited to tell him that he knows his brother, Captain Randall.There was a second of shocked recognition (they do look alike) then he gathers himself. The Duke tells Alex to run along and assist the servants (he's had his fun).
The next two people to be announced are Silas Hawkins (Sion Tudor Owen) and the Vicomte Marigny (Ian Bustard). Jamie welcomes them and deduces that Silas Hawkins is Mary's uncle. Jamie says that his wife is very fond of the lass, and Silas states that she spends entirely too much time engaging in social activity, then introduces the Vicomte Marigny as her fiance. Other couples are introduced and the party is in full swing. The clock shows it's 8 pm and Jamie looks at it worriedly. with the Duke laughing and socializing. Jamie sees Fergus who tells him about the problem with the carriage and that they'll be late.
His Royal Highness, Charles Edward Stuart comes in and is introduced. Jamie welcomes him and the Prince says, "High hopes, James. MARK ME, tonight could be a turning point for us." Then Jamie introduces him to Clarence Marlebone, the Third Duke of Sandringham. The duke says, "Such a delight to finally meet you. I've heard such grand praising." The prince says the feeling is quite mutual. More people are coming in...
It is getting quite dark as Claire and Mary are walking home with Murtagh. Mary confesses that she's met someone quite wonderful and they've been corresponding for weeks now. He's handsome, and intelligent, and his letters are so eloquent that she couldn't help but fall in love with him. Claire wants to know who his is, and Mary says she shouldn't tell her this, but his name is Randall. Claire stop, stunned, then asks how she met him. Mary tells her she dropped her handkerchief and he picked it up — it was SO romantic. Claire wants to know where, and Mary says it was at Versailles, when she wore the red dress. Claire remembers seeing Mary with Alex Randall and concludes it is Alex that Mary is in love with. Mary confirms, and asks if there is another?
Right then someone drops down from a roof-top and attacks Murtagh. Several other masked men run up and they knock Murtagh out. Claire yells for help, and the leader tells one of the men to "Stay with the man." Claire and Mary are fighting them. One of the men tells Claire, "Be still, you English bitch!" One of them hits mary in the face then starts to rape her. He is excited to find out she's a virgin. Claire yells at him to leave her alone.
Back at the dinner party, the Comte and Comtesse St. Germain (Gaia Weiss) enter. The Duke of Sandringham took the libery of inviting them. Jamie hides his feelings as he says, "Delighted."
Mary is screaming as Claire notices a large birthmark on the right hand of the masked man holding her captive (same guy who sabotaged the carriage wheel at the beginning of the episode). He tells another man to hold her so he can rape her, but that man recognizes her as La Dame Blanche, crosses himself and starts to back away. Claire uses that opportunity to punch the man holding her in the face and run to pull the guy off of Mary. The guy who recognized her as La Dame Blanche tells the other attackers, "Run!...Run! Save your souls!" Murtagh comes around as Claire is clutching a sobbing Mary protectively.
Swords are being piled on a table back at the apartment, and General D'Arbanville (Herbert Forthuber) is introduced. Then Louise and her husband Jules, the Marquis de Rohan (Howard Corlett) are introduced, then Jamie greets them and introduces them to Prince Charles Edward Stuart, who seems especially interested in Louise and kisses her hand more than a bit too long. She finally pulls it away.
Magnus comes up to Jamie and whispers something and they both leave the house. Suzette (Adrienne-Marie Zitt) holding a candlestick with two lit candles is out the door ahead of them heading to Murtagh (carrying Mary), Fergus and Claire. Jamie rushes up to Claire and asks what happened. Claire tells him they were attacked on the street by four briggands. Murtagh tells him he tried to fight them off. Jamie is very concerned about Claire and their baby, but she tells them they're OK. But Mary was assaulted and raped. Alex Randall overhears this and is in shock. He rushes to Mary who has passed out from the shock. Claire assures him that she'll be alright. Jamie asks Murtagh if he recognized them, but Murtagh tells him they wore masks. He and Murtagh start to go look for them, but Claire stops them and tells them now is not the time. Tonight is too important. What they are going to do is look after this poor girl. She tells the servants to take her up to the guest room where she'll be safe, then orders Fergus to go get her medical box. She tells Suzette to help her get dressed for the party. Jamie thinks she's daft, but she orders him to help get her inside, and take the back staircase so they won't be seen.
Mary is still unconsious in the guest room, with Alex by her side. Claire asks him to stay with her and tells him she needs some quiet and rest. He tells Claire that he won't leave her side. If she wakes up she can have some water or tea. And poppy syrup, but not too much as it can cause visions and she's already given her a dose.
Claire is back in their room getting ready with Suzette's help. Jamie pops in and tells them that dinner has not been served and they can still cancel and send everyone home. But Claire insists that there's too much at stake. They need to alert the authorities about Mary, but Jamie says they can't. Mary's uncle and fiance are at the party. If Mary's been violated, her reputation will be ruined. Claire says it is hardly her fault she was raped, and Jamie says he knows it's not right, but if they let it be known that she's a maiden no more, no man will ever take her and she'll be a spinster until the end of her days. Claire says that is rediculous, she needs a doctor, and Jamie says she has one, her. Jamie says he'd lay odds that St. Germain is behind this. He wants to go out there right now and cut his head off. Claire is shocked that St. Germain is there. Jamie tells her that the Duke invited him. Claire says, "Christ, noone is getting their head cut off tonight. You should go." Jamie kisses her and says he'll let the guests know she is there. Claire takes several deep breaths to calm down.
Claire enters the parlor regally and joins Jamie who introduces his wife to the group. She curtsies and most of the men bow, except notably St. Germain. She gery graciously greets them and apologizes for her delay, then invites them into the dining room where dinner is served.
Claire walks into dinner with Louise and asks her how things are going. Lousie confides that she convinced her husband that she got pregnant on a drunken night. The baby is his and he was mad with joy.
Upstairs, Mary is starting to stir, and Alex tells her he's there and she's safe now. He touches her face and tells her he loves her and will take good care of her.
Claire is at one end of the table with the Comte St. Germain on her right and his wife on her left. Next to her is Silas Hawkins, and next to St. Germain is the Vicomte Marigny. An unknown woman is sitting to the right of Marigne, and an unkown man is to the left of Hawkins, then the Duke of Sandringham. Charles Stuart, looking very unhappy, is sitting across from the Duke, and Louise is to the Duke's left, and Jules is sitting on her left. Two more unknown men are sitting to the right of the Prince, and then an unknown woman. Another unknown man is sitting across from her. Jamie is at the opposite end of the table from Claire. There are 15 people seated, 10 of whom are identified.
Jamie says to the crowd at the table, "We're fortunate to have his Royal Highness with us from Italy." The Duke said he'd had an occasion to visit it last year but was disappointed was his trip to the Vatican. Jamie said his grace had told him he'd wished to meet Pope Benedict. "Yes, but he was too busy to receive me. What do popes do anyway? Does anyone know?" Charles states, "I imagine as leader of the Catholic Church, it keeps him rather occupied." The Duke asks Charles if he's met him, and Charles replies that he has, and that he's been exceedingly generous to his family, as have the past four Popes.
The Duke wants to know if the Pope is as witty as they say. Claire says that the Duke has been known to tell a joke or two, and asks if he'd favor them.
"What did the dwarf say when asked for five schillings? Apologies, I'm a trivle short." Everyone laughs except the Comte St. Germain and his wife who give each other looks...
Claire, still reeling from the attack, can't take her eyes off St. Germain and wondering if he orchistrated such violence and then sat calmly across the table from her two hours later sipping his soup.
Jamie prompts Charles to enlighten the group on his plans, on God's plans. He starts his standard speal of it being God's plan that he, as his emissary, unite the clans and restore a Catholic to the throne.
Louise chimes in and asks, "Must we talk politics? It's so dreary. What about the opera?"
Charles leans across the table and asks the Duke of Sandringham if he's married.He replies, "It's a wonderment, but I've not yet found a woman who could put up with me. Ha ha ha ha..."
Charles says that they are such fickle creatures indeed.
The Duke states that Jamie found himself a worthy one. "I must say that the combination of their respective beauty will result in a child of unfathomable pulchritude (means physical beauty)."
Jamie thanks him in French, "Merci". Then Claire gives him a nod and he says, "I understand that congratulations are in order for the Madame and Marqui as well" (indicating Louise and her husband Jules). They both look surprised, then Lousie confirms that they are looking forward to the arrival of a little one. Jamie apologizes, and then Jules says they hadn't formally announced it yet, but smiling and holding his wife's hand, he says, "An heir, it is the most incredible news, is it not?"
Charles looks a little shocked, then toasts them, wishing Louise and her husband all the happiness in the world. Then he blurts out, "The world is not always a happy place. It's unpredictible really. One day you're happy, and then the next..." He says something else, maybe Italian, and Jules says he's a little in the dark as to his meaning. Charles tells him that he believes he's a man in the dark indeed.
Mary wakes up in a panic. Alex tries to calm her but she yells at him to get away from her. He goes to get medicine and she runs out of the room knocking some glass over.
The Comtessa St. Germain comments on the beautiful stone Claire is wearing around her neck (the one Master Raymond gave her). Claire says it's just a bauble. St. Germain says in French, "Lady Broch Tuarach is being far too modest. That is actually a very particular stone. It is said to be magic...if one...believes in such things. Indeed, it changes colour...when poison is near. If the Lady is so worried...about the cooking in her own home, perhaps we should all have a stone?" Claire gives him a look and says in French, "Perhaps you should."
Then Mary barges into the room with Alex chasing her. She turns and fights him. She falls down yelling, and he is on top of her. Jamie and the dinner guests come to see what's happening, and someone says, "He's raping her!" Jamie pulls Alex up and moves him away, then gets Mary onto a couch, then all hell breaks out with people punching and fighting. Murtagh comes into the room brandishing a blade, but Jamie tells him not now and disarms him.
The Comte St. Germain is on the sidelines with Prince Charles who yells out, "There is no reason to be uncivilized."
St. Germain says in English, "Yes, and Your Highness should not be subjected to such intemperence. Let us depart."
Prince Charles is reluctant to leave his friend James with such ruffians. But St. Germain tells him not to trouble himself. He'll take care of it. Then he tells a servant, "Summon the gens d'armes." (the men-at-arms or police) They all depart.
Fergus is delighted to have a table full of delicous food all to himself while the dinner guests are otherwise entertained.
Servants, including Magnus (Robbie McIntosh) are cleaning up the mess left from the brawl that occurred at the Fraser's dinner party in the last episode. Claire (Caitriona Balfe) and Fergus (Romann Berrux) have been waiting all night for Jamie (Sam Heughan) to come home and Fergus has just fallen asleep on the sofa.
Evidently Jamie, Murtagh and Alex Randall had been arrested and taken to the Bastille. But Jamie does show up the next morning and picks up the sleeping Fergus to take him his bed, saying, "Well Laddie, ye did well guarding your mistress."
Then he and Claire are talking in their bedroom. Jamie tells her that Duverney showed up and ordered the captain of the guard to release him at once. She states that, "It's fortunate to have friends in high places." She asks about the fate of Murtagh and Alex Randall, and Jamie tells her that Murtagh was downstairs washing off the stench of the French prison, but Alex did not fare so well. Silas Hawkins had accused him of attacking Mary and it will take Mary stating otherwise to get him released. Claire tells Jamie that he aught to help him as he came to Mary's aid and he is not his brother. She asks if the Duke can help him, but Jamie tells her that the Duke sent word to the prison that Alex was fired so there's no help coming from him. Claire hopes that the Duke will have the same opinion of Prince Charles and Jamie agrees that he thinks that the Duke sees Charles as the poor investment that he is. Claire tells Jamie that Prince Charles left the dinner party with St. Germain, and Jamie frowns and says that no good can come from that pairing. He'll set Murtagh to follow St. Germain to see if anything is amiss.
He asks Claire if she remembers anything more of the attack the night before, and she states that they spoke French like aristocrats, wore fine clothes and shoes. He asks how they escaped and she said one of them mistook her for some mythical creature called La Dame Blanche. Evidently she asked Fergus who that was and he said it was some sorceress. Jamie looks guilty and she asks if he'd heard of it. He admits that at Madame Elise's he told a few people that he was married to La Dame Blanche in order to keep Charles from pushing more whores on him without seeming unmanly. Claire doesn't appreciate his calling her a witch especially after what had happened at Crainemuir. She's incensed and he sheepishly says that there may have been a fair amount of drinking involved. She asks how many people heard him, and he replies only a few, but it was a good bit of gossip. She concludes that the assailants were also customers at Maison d'Elise, and Jamie says that if they can find them, they may lead them to St. Germain. "Heaven help him if he's responsible."
She says it's been a long night, and he cuddles up behind her and says all he wishes for is for her to lay in his arms. Sweet!
Next we see Jamie and Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) at Jared's warehouse. Murtagh tells Jamie that he tracked St. Germain but saw nothing suspicious. Jamie asks him if he learned anything at Maison d'Elise, and he replies that a wench there told him about several customers, members of a gang, masked men called 'Les Disciples'. Aristocrats that prowl the streets in search of prey. Jamie tells him that Claire did say the assailants were well spoken and wore fine clothes. Murtagh adds, "The way into this gang: a maidenhead. Mary was a virgin, was she not?" Jamie confirms that she was.
The warehouse Foreman (David Goodall) comes into the room informing Jamie that a new shipment has arrived and asks if he'd like a sample. Jamie tells him to start without him, that he'll join him later.
Murtagh looks even more dour than usual and Jamie says he looks like a wreck and suggests he to go get some sleep. But he doesn't go. He tells Jamie that he's failed him. Jamie says he's done no such thing. "Ye gave me your trust; your wife, your child unborn, to guard. And that wee English lassie." Jamie tells him he was outmanned. Murtagh can't forgive himself for what happened in that alley. Or what could have happened. Jamie tells him to keep after him. If St. Germain is behind this, then they need to connect him to the gang, Les Disciples. Murtagh jumps up out of his chair and promises, "I will lay just vengence at your feet, or be damned." Jamie nods in agreement with that statement.
Claire goes to visit Mary (Rosie Day) at her uncle Silas' home. Mary runs to Claire and hugs her fiercely, but is surprised that her uncle let her in. Claire informs her that he doesn't know about it, but she'd convinced her aunt that it's important that Claire give Mary a medical examination. Mary tells Claire that her uncle won't let her leave the house, and insists she leave Paris once she's recovered. She was relieved to hear that Jamie and Murtagh had been released, but Mary asks Claire to deliver a letter she's written describing the details of the attack to the authorities, and explaining Alex's innocence. Claire agrees to make sure it gets delivered at once. Mary thanks her, telling her that Alex is a good man, with a kind heart, and reminding her that she knows of her fondness for him. Claire gets down to business asking her how she feels, and Mary replies that she's feeling ashamed, like a different person now, and likely nothing will ever be the same. Claire assures her that she has nothing to be ashamed of, and that the attack was not her fault. Claire asks her how she's feeling physically. Mary admits that she bled a bit, but it stopped, and Claire reassures her that it is normal. Claire pulls a jar of herbs out of her bag and tells Mary they will help. They have to steep in hot water, and when the infusion has cooled down, apply it with a cloth. Mary asks her bluntly, "Am I going to have a baby?" Claire says she doesn't believe so as the attacker didn't finish. Mary expresses gratitude for all Claire has done for her, and relief that at least now they won't force her to marry that dreadful man, the Vicomte. Her uncle told her he'd never take a soiled bride. Claire says, "Good riddance! You're far too pretty, not to mention sweet, to marry such a warty old man." Mary is confident that once Alex is free he'll return to her, and they're hoping to be married, which surprises Claire. She's worried that if Alex and Mary wed, what will become of the lineage that is supposed to produce her first husband Frank? Mary signs and seals the letter for Claire to deliver to the autorities. And Claire briefly considers throwing it in the fire, because for Frank to eventually exist, Mary must marry Jack Randall, Alex's brother. Would disposing of the letter set things right even if it would ensure an innocent man stay in prison? Decisions, decisions...
Prince Charles shows up at Jarad's warehouse finding Jamie working. He tells Jamie that the female haze that once clouded his mind has been lifted. And he has excellent news and orders Jamie to open his best bottle of burgandy. Jamie asks if it has to do with his investors, and Charles tells him not to mention those scoundrels who have shown their true colors. "What if I were to tell you that we are about to come into possion of ten thousand pounds? Stirling!" Jamie replies that this is what they've been waiting for. Charles has written to his father informing him of their good fortune. "MARK ME James. The king has led a dolorous life of misfortune. And now I stand poised to lay at his feet the world's most treasured gift: the throne of Britain." Jamie asks who it is that offers such a prize, and Charles reveals it is the Comte St. Germain, who wishes to buy a large shipment of Portugese Madiera. However, the Comte is short of funds and in despirate need of a business partner. Jamie asks what the Comte requires, and Charles reveals that he's secured a loan to cover half the cost of the shipment and then they'll earn themselves a rich profit. Jamie reminds him it won't be enough to buy an army, but Charles says it will be enough to start securing ships, weapons, and fighting men for their holy cause. And when Duverney sees what they've accomplished, he'll advise the king that it's a worthy investment. With the French money, Charles will lead them all to the gates of London and to GLORY. Jamie's eyes are big, then he raises a glass and toasts, "Good news indeed". Jamie admits that the thought of a partnership with St. Germain makes him uneasy. Charles tells him that he's no fool; that he's well aware of his damnable reputation. Jamie goes into detail about him being rumored to participate in heretical circles and demonic rituals. Charles counters with "Rumor and innuendo. I pay no more attention to that than I do the rumors about your wife, Le Dame Blanche. St. Germain is no lover of my cause, but he is a man of business, and I have arranged for you to be the one to sell the wine." Jamie is shocked, "Me?" "Well who better than you to secure the buyer and keep a wary eye on St. Germain?" Jamie asks when they are to expect the shipment, and Charles orders him not to plauge him with workman's concerns. He has arranged for Jamie and St. Germain to meet at Maison d'Elise to discuss particulars. Charles raises his glass and toasts, "To the glorious day when the rightful king sits on the British throne oncemore!" Poor Jamie who has to return with, "To the glorious day".
Claire and Alex Randall (Laurence Dobiesz) are walking together after she's delivered Mary's letter to assure Alex's release from the Bastille. He expresses his thanks and tells her it was a frightening experience. She tells him that Mary has told her of their plans to wed. He's so happy. But she's concerned about his ability to find a new position, and points out to him that Mary deserves better than a pauper's life. He breaks into a caughing fit. She reminds him that he's unwell and it wouldn't be fair to Mary to have to sacrifice her youth to nurse him. He should consider putting aside his feelings and thinking of what's best for her. He agrees with her assessment and says, "Condemning Mary to a life of penuary is something I wouldn't dream of. I love her enough to want her to have the future she deserves. She's going to be devestated, you know." Claire counters with, "Yes, she will. But in time she will move on from this." "Thank you for your candor, Madame Fraser. Mary is fortunate to have a friend as caring as you." BARF! Alex gets up, bows to Claire and walks off stricken. Claire's voiceover tells us that it broke Claire's heart to break his. Clearly Alex and Mary loved one other and she was robbing them of happiness, but what choice did she have? She forced herself to focus on the evidence that Mary Hawkins and Jonathan Randall were destined to have a child together. Alex and Mary simply could not be for Frank's sake.
St. Germain (Stanley Weber) are meeting at Madame Elise's brothel. The owner herself, Madame Elise (Michele Belgrande-Hodgson) brings them drinks and offers them a lady, or maybe two. But either of them are interested and both are looking very comfortable. Jamie tells the Comte he dislikes being joined together in business and doesn't want to sit in his presence any longer than needed so he suggests they get down to business. The Comte also shares his distaste for their partnership and says his memory never fails. He hasn't forgotten Claire's callous attempt to ruin him. Jamie replies, "Since you brought up my wife, let me make myself clear: someone tried to poison her, and attacked her in the street, then raped her friend. My memory is as long as yours. When I find the man reponsible, he'll die a very slow and painful death." The Compte replies, "Your personal life is of no interest to me. Absolutely none at all. I, alone, will procure the shipment. It will be secured at my warehouse...until you have buyers in place. Contact me then...and not before." He gets up and throws some coins on the table.
Claire, Jamie and Murtagh are talking back at the apartment. Jamie tells them that if the wine venture is successful, and he gets other investors, he has no doubt that the Prince will set sail for Scotland straight away. Claire says then it's simple; they must find a way to dispose of that shipment before it's sold. Jamie wishes that St. Germain will do them a favor and bring it in on another ship infected with smallpox. A lightbulb goes off and Claire tells him that she thinks that a case of smallpox could be faked with certain herbs. Jamie asks if that's even possible, and she's not sure, but will look into it.
Jamie reminds her that they are due at the Royal Stables where Jamie promised the Duke to help him purchase a team of horses, tomorrow.
Then Jamie tells her that he's been waiting for a good time to surprise her with something. It's a case holding 12 Apostle Spoons that were passed down in his family. He tells her that once they'd arrived in France he'd written Jenny with their news and asked her to send them, for the bairn's christening. Jenny told him that she was so full of excitement she could hardly keep the quill steady in her hand. Claire is very moved by his thoughtfulness. But she's also worried about whether or not she'll be a good mother. As a nurse, she knows how to deliver a baby, now to feed one, and how to treat one who is ill, but that's not being a mother. She only has a vague memory of her own mother, nothing to guide her. Jamie reassures her, "What ye don't ken, ye'll learn...we'll learn, together." She tells him she loves him, he says he loves her too, and they kiss. A very tender moment between expectant parents.
The next day at the Royal Stables, many well-dressed people are walking around enjoying the day. Jamie tells Claire that he misses the smell of the stable, and she says that makes one of them. Then the Duke of Sandringham (Simon Callow) walks up to Claire and kisses her hand, flattering her effusively. She tells him she believes she's about to be ill. He starts and she reassures him it's not contagious and excuses herself. Then the Duke and Jamie wander around looking at horses and Jamie evaluates them and gives his recommendation whether each horse is worth the cost or not. The Duke tells Jamie that he was very distressed to hear of his legal woes, especially after such a lovely dinner. "The Bastille! Perish the thought!" Jamie replies that he wasn't there for long, but some of the poor devils have been there for decades. The Duke counters with, "Oh well, life can be harsh."
Claire is looking at a lavishly decorated buffet table and tastes a grape. Annalise de Marillac (Margaux Chalelier) is walking by and notices Claire. She approaches and says in French, "Madame Broch Tuarach, what a pleasure!" Claire replies, also in French, "Lovely to see you again, Annalise." Annalise invites her to walk with her through the garden and Claire accepts.
Back to the Duke who tells Jamie that his dinner party was not entirely wasted as it allowed him to take the measure of his Prince. Jamie asks what was his assessment? "My considered opinion: he's an utter ass." Jamie says he's sorry his opinion is such, and the Duke says he imagines Jamie is, especially because he seems to have pledged himself to the Prince's service. Jamie comments on another horse that doesn't live up to it's claims, and the Duke wonders out loud why someone who is such a good judge of horseflesh is such a poor judge of men. Jamie replies, "I see the Prince for what he is, but his father is the true king." "Nobly said." They wonder off to look at more horses. Jamie sees one he likes very much, but the Duke wants to look at more as he values having options.
Annalise says to Claire that she's lived in Scotland. Does she find life there to be simpler? Claire confirms that is in some ways, but not in others. The politics and manipulations between the clans and lairds can rival even the intrigues of Versailles. Annalise tells Claire that James was never a man for intrigue, at least in those days. He was direct and honest. Simple. Claire says she wouldn't call Jamie simple. "Not today, now he is a man of business, of politics, like all the others. It saddens me to think of him like that." Claire reassures her that he's still Jamie, and she doubts he'll ever lose track of who he really is at heart. Annalise says that when she knew him he was impulsive, headstrong, and Claire confirms he still is. But Annalise says, "Oh, but when I knew him he was a boy; you've turned him into a man. Speaking of men, there's a rather dashing one over there, staring at us. He seems quite taken with you."
Claire turns around and sees Jonathan Randall approaching them, looking very intense. Her face drops and her eyes go wide with shock. "Claire."e; Annalise assumes that they're acquainted. Annalise assumes that they're acquainted, and Jack confirms it and introduces himself in French to Annalise, removes his hat and bows, wincing in pain. She responds in kind, introducing herself to him. Annalise asks him if he's in discomfort, and he replies that he met with an accident some time ago, and then meaningfully looks at Claire, who turns her back on him and tells Annalise she's suddenly feeling unwell. Annalise blurts out that she'll go for her husband and leaves before Claire can stop her. Randall says, "Jamie, he's here? Where?" and Claire turns back towards him with anger and trepadation. She tells him that he should go because if he sees him Jamie will cut his throat. Randall informs her that would be a mistake because drawing a sword in the presence of the King is punishable by death. Claire turns to leave and he cuts her off saying, "This is unbelievable. The fates are toying with us now, setting our feet on seemingly divergent paths that still somehow converge in the most unlikely of places." She tries to leave again and he cuts her off again. She says emphatically, "Get out of my way!quot; "Claire, surely you of all people can step outside the passions of the moment and appreciate the sublime preposterousness of the universe that would guide us to a meeting at the French court." She tries again to walk past him but he grabs her arm to stop her. "Let go of me!" Jack says, "The king." And Claire says, "Fuck the King" Jack smiles, and then lunges into a deep bow. Surprised, Claire turns around as King Louis and his entourage walk up to them. Startled, she curtsies as the King says in French, "Madame Fraser...The King takes great pleasure in seeing you again." Claire replies, also in French, "As I do you, Your Magesty." The King gestures to Randall, who's still bowing. So Claire is forced to introduce the king to Jonathan Wolverton Randall, Captain of His Britannic Majesty's 8th Dragoons, in French. The King welcomes Randall to Versailles, in French, and Jack replies, also in French, "Thank you, Your Majesty. It is a great honour to be here." Evidently Jack's French was not up to snuff as the King and his entourage are laughing at him. The King tells them in French, "None of that." Then he addresses Jack in English, "You will forgive the rudeness of these children, Captain. The French language is not easily mastered by the English." Jack assures him he took no offense. Then Louis says in French as he reaches for Claire's hand, "Oh, but perhaps the King himself has offended you. Madame Fraser, I assure you that your accent is flawless...as always." Claire replies in French as the King kisses her hand, "Your Majesty is far too kind." The King tells Randall in English, "The King admires your uniform Captain. It is so seldom seen at his court. Such bold colors, as befit the brave soldiers of your sovereign. A pity that your countrymen are too busy slaughtering each other to exchange such pleasantries." Randall counters, in English, "Speaking as a soldier of many years, Your Majesty, I must say that I find war preferable to politics. At least in war you know your enemies." "The King finds some truth in what you say, however, we hope your affection for carnage does not ultimately prove fatal for you." Giggles... Addressing Claire, "You and the Captain are friends, Madame?" "We are acquainted." "Hum... Does that not present difficulty with your husband? He is afterall a proud Scottish warrior, and great supporter of my cousin's rightful place as King of the British throne. Or perhaps you have not met Lord Broch Tuarach." Jamie approaches, Jack puts his hand on his sword, and Jamie answers the King, bowing, "Captain Randall and I have met several times, Your Majesty. Are you well Captain?" Jack answers, "Very well, sir. Thank you." "I hear you had a rather unfortunate encounter with some...sheep, was it?" "Cattle, actually." Jamie asks him if he's recovered, and Randall said, mostly, but he still has a little difficulty getting out of bed on cold mornings. Jamie tells him politely that he understands the weather in Paris is expected to be quite warm all week. Jack says Jamie need have no concern for his health, and Jamie says he's delighted to hear it.
Claire, looking quite bewildered, says, "Tell us, Captain, why are you here?" Jack answers that he's there on an errand of mercy, to aid his brother. The King makes a gesture as if he's curious to know more, so Jack says, "Your Majesty, until recently, my brother was in the employ of the Duke of Sandringham, and I've come here to ask His Grace to reconsider his position."
The King says, "Perhaps you should beg." Jack questions, "Beg? Your Majesty?" And the Kings says, "Yes, on your knees. To ask a favor of such a mans as the Duke would not be possible. If you beg him, however, that is a different matter.... On your knees!" Jack looks at Jamie, then back at the King, makes a tortured face, then reluctantly goes down on his knees. Jamie is sneering at him. The King smiles, then giggles, then laughs outright. Jamie too is appreciating Jack's embarrasment. Then the King says, "Not now. You English are so, etal (sp?)"
Claire says, "Your Majesty?" and he gestures for her to proceed. She tells him that she's feeling unwell and asks his permission to retire. He replies with, " Of course! Be well Madame Fraser. Take some rest.... You may retire as well, Lord Broch Tuarach." They both leave, and Jack is still on his knees. Motioning to Captain Randall, "The King gives you leave to rise. It would be a shame to stain such pretty britches." The King and his men are all laughing at Jack as they walk off, and he's looking miserable.
As Jamie and Claire are walking away, Jamie asks her if she really is feeling unwell. Is it the bairn? She says she's not. She just wanted them to get away from that exchange. Jamie abruptly leaves her and walks back to Jack. They have a few words, Jack touches Jamie's shoulder, Claire freaks out by this, then they both bow to each other, and Jamie walks back to Claire looking very pleased with himself. Claire asked him what just happened. Jamie said he challenged him to a dual and he accepted. "He said he owed me a debt."
In the carriage riding back to Jared's apartment Jamie is looking quite happy, and Claire looks like she's about to burst out crying. Jamie jumps out of the carriage when it stops. Fergus runs to meet them, Jamie hands his sword to him and tells Fergus, "It is a great day Laddie." "Is it?" "You have no idea. Fetch Murtagh at once."
Claire, still inside the carriage, tells the driver, "Take me to the Bastille...with all due haste!", the servant closes the carriage door, and they race off.
Inside, Jamie is talking over the situation with Murtagh who agrees to arrange the particulars with his second. As the challenged, Randall will select the weapons. What if it's pistols? But Jamie doesn't think that's what he'll do. Too quick. Too far apart. He'll want to look Jamie in the eye. Murtagh reminds Jamie not to underestimate Randall's skills. Randall didn't get to be Captain of the Dragoons without knowing how to handle a blade.
Claire enters the room and states flatly, "There won't be any duel. Randall is locked away in the Bastille. Jamie demands, "On what charge?" and Claire tells him that she swore an accusation against him, that he was the one who attacked Mary and her. Jamie asks her if she's lost her mind, swearing a false charge. She says they won't be able to hold him for long, and she can always tell them that she must have been mistaken. She needs the time to get Jamie to listen to her, so he won't go through with the duel. He's furious! Feeling betrayed. He wants to know she'd do such a thing. "Because dueling is outlawed in France! And if you're caught, you could spend the rest of your life behind bars, or worse. I won't risk that. You're about to become a father! You have to think of me and your child." Jamie doesn't buy that. There are places in the city where the gens d'armes (men-at-arms) are not present. Murtagh chimes in telling her that he won't get caught, he'll see to it. Claire yells at Murtagh to please leave. This is between Jamie and her, so he walks away and Claire closes the doors behind him.
Jamie tells Claire that she gave him a gift, that he'd be the one to end that bastard's life, and now he's claiming that gift. She begs for him to listen to her, stating emphatically that he can't kill Randall.
Jamie says there's no reason, and she says it's because of Frank. If Jamie kills Randall now, then Frank will never be born. Jamie wants to know what that means. Claire reminds him that she told him about seeing Frank's family tree, and on it was the name Jack Randall. He married Mary Hawkins, and together they are supposed to have a child, and that child is Frank's ancestor. If he kills Randall before the child is conceived, then it is the same as if he killed Frank too. He must exist! He's part of the future."reason, and she says it's because of Frank. If Jamie kills Randall now, then Frank will never be born. Jamie wants to know what that means. Claire reminds him that she told him about seeing Frank's family tree, and on it was the name Jack Randall. He married Mary Hawkins, and together they are supposed to have a child, and that child is Frank's ancestor. If he kills Randall before the child is conceived, then it is the same as if he killed Frank too. "He must exist! He's part of the future." Jamie counters, "I thought we were here to change the future." Claire claims that Frank is innocent in all of this, and he can't kill an innocent man. He's committed no crime against either of them.
Jamie is getting more and more angry. He yells, "And for that, Jack Randall should live? I can stand a lot, more than most. I've proven as much! Must I bear everyone's weaknesses? May I not have my own?" He swears some in Gaelic, then says, "You of all people, you were there. You saw what he did to me!" She only asks for a delay. Jamie grabs a knife and says, "You have a choice. Him or me. I canna live if Randall lives. If you wilna allow me to kill him, then kill me, now, yourself!" He holds her hand around the knife pointed at his chest. She's crying trying to pull her hand back and insisting on one year, long enough for the child to be conceived. After that she swears she will help him bleed him herself. He lets go of the knife and she tosses it away. Then she reminds him that he owes her that much because she's saved his life, not once, but twice. "You owe me a life!" "I see, and now you claim your debt?" "I can't make you see reason any other way." "Jesus! God Claire! You'd stop me taking vengence on the man that made me play his whore? The man that lived in my nightmares, in our bed. Almost drove me to take my own life! I'm a man of honor; I pay my debts! So tell me now, is that what you're asking of me? To pay you with the life of Black Jack Randall?" "Yes." Jamie looks stricken, then resigned. He picks up his sword and kisses it."A year. Not one day more." She starts to reach for him and he glowers at her saying, "Do NOT touch me!" He walks away holding his shattered hand.
The story opens with men winding rope around a long stick to make a torch, then lighting it.
Jamie (Sam Heughan) sitting at his desk looking very serious. In walks Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) to tell him that he's made plans to meet with Randall's second this afternoon to set up the terms of the duel. The duel will be in two days time, at dawn. Murtagh tells him, "Dinna fash lad, Magnus tells me that the woods West of the city are safe. Gen d'armes dinna patrol there." Jamie seems distracted. Murtagh tells him he needs to concentrate, and he'll fetch the broadswords so they can practice in the courtyard to hone his skills. Jamie says he can't. So Murtagh says they can practice before supper; he'd rather not wait until tomorrow. Jamie needs to work that bad hand. But Jamie says emphatically, "I'm not dueling with Randall. I've already sent word withdrawing my challenge." Murtagh is dumbstruck and demands to know why. Jamie tells him it's complicated. "I ken I'm a simple man, but STRIVE for an explaination!" "I canna!" "Your mind changes like a woman in flux." Jamie assures him, "Trust I have a sound reason." Murtagh's not buying it and storms out as Magnus (Robbie McIntosh) comes in with a tray of breakfast items. He says, "Good morning Master Murtagh." And Murtagh grumbles nastily, "Says you." Magnus counters in French under his breath, "Too damn bad." Then putting the tray on a table he addresses Jamie, "Milady has instructed that you have a proper meal to start your day." Jamie asks Magnus where Milady is, and he tells him that she's gone to the hopital. "Of course she has." And then he thanks Magnus as he walks away.
The next scene opens up with Claire (Caitriona Balfe) working at the Hopital. She's frowning and looking very pregnant and run down, clutching her baby bump. As she walks past him, Monsieur Florez(Naill Greig Fulton) asks her if she'd be so kind to help him by preparing a patient for burial. She says, "Certainly. You're going somewhere?" He replies that he's been summoned by His Majesty to perform his usual duties. Claire asks him what crime the person is being executed for. He informs her that it is to be several persons — practitioners of the dark arts. And those who associate with them," (meaningfully directing his gaze at her). Claire asks him when it is to happey, and he says once they're gathered, he supposes. He thought they should be hanged, but the King's pleasure is for them to be drawn and quartered, so he must be at the ready. "Pleasure is not the word that comes to mind." Then he goes into great detail bragging about his great skill at his job. First, the man, or woman, must be hanged but with judgement so that the neck is not broken. As death approaches, he must reach inside the cavity and grab the beating heart. The main difficulty is in severing the large vessles above quickly so that the heart can be pulled with great force while it is still beating. Smiling at her discomfort, he says, "You wish to please the crowd, hum? The rest is mere butchery. Once life is extinct, there is no further need for skill. I have made you pale with this hideous conversation. Perhaps our friend, Master Raymond, would be better company. Au revoir, Madame Fraser." Claire watches him leave with a very worried look on her face.
Claire makes a bee line to tell Master Raymond (Dominique Pinon) that he needs to leave the city at once, as the king is on a crusade to root out practitioners of the black arts from Paris. Master Raymond seems nonplussed saying, "Yes, yes, this has happened before. It is of no concern. King Louis' great grandfather, Louis the 14th did much the same decades ago, plucking heretics from the city as one might remove weeds from the garden. Twas a veiled manifestation of his piousness. Afterwards they were all freed after a mere renunciation of satan, as penance." Claire fears that this time is different. She thinks the King is out for actual blood rather than Hail Marys. She tells him that Monsieur Florez confided in her that he's preparing for multiple executions. She bluntly warns him that he's in danger. He tells her that if it is as she says, she shouldn't have come there as she's put herself at grave risk. He's touched by her concern for his welfare. She tells him that is what friends do for one another. "Mi cher ami, I will heed your warning and flee the city at once. Don't worry, no matter how often one removes weeds, they have a habit of reappearing. We will meet again, Madonna, in this life, or another." She hopes so, and asks him to please be careful, and then leaves.
Claire has her feet on Jamie's lap and he's rubbing them. She asks, "How did you know that's exactly what I needed right now?" He says he remembered how much Jenny said it helped when she was with child. He looks pensive, "Ive been thinking. Remember how you said I owed you a life because you've saved mine. Well, I've saved yours as well, at least as often. It seems to me we're even. ... I did na give you Randall's life as payment of a debt. I owe Frank nothing. You had a free choice between us and you chose me. The fact you did should na entitle him to any particular consideration." Claire pulls her feet off his lap and says, "But Frank's innocent in all of this." "What Randall did to me was worse than death. What lies between him and me can only be settled when one of us is dead." Claire asks him why he promised her that he'd let Randall live. "Because of Charles Stuart. The Prince is a canny, slippery man, yet, there's a light in his eye can can fool good men into believing he's God's chosen one, destined to make the dream of a Stuart restoration a reality. We've thwarted him all we can, Claire, but we may find ourselves staring into the mist at the bottom of Culloden Moore, so if anything should happen to me..." Claire tells him not to talk like that. " I want there to be a place for you...someone to care for your...our bairn. I want it to be a man that loves you. So, now it is my turn to ask you for a promise. Promise me that if the time should come, you will go back through the stones. Back to Frank." He nods his head, and she nods hers and promises. He kisses her and the baby bump, and lays his head in her lap while she cradles him with a very sad expression on her face.
Claire is grinding some herbs with Fergus (Romann Berrux) fiddling with things in her box and generally getting in the way. Jamie is taking off his jacket while Murtagh, disgrunted as ever, wonders why they are trying to fake smallpox. Jamie fills in the answer, "Because the Princes financiers are waiting to see if his wine venture is successful. If it works, they'll be lining up to donate money to the Jacobite cause." Claire adds, "But if we can get the Harbor Master at Le Havre to destroy St. Germain's warehouse and inventory, like he did with the Patagonia..." Jamie continues, "Charles will lose his wine investment..." Claire, still crushing herbs in a mortar and pestle, continues, "and he'll go running back to Rome with his tail between his legs." Murtagh has a better idea, "Or we could slit the Italian fox's throat and be done with it." Claire reasons, "Killing Charles Stuart will only make him a martyr throughout Scotland."
Claire is teaching Fergus about what she's making as she adds ingredients to a bowl: "Essance of rosemary, bitter cascara." She hands the bowl to Jamie nodding that he should drink it, which he does. Murtagh makes a face like he can't believe Jamie is doing it. And Jamie makes a face informing us that it tastes really bad. Next Claire is rubbing a cloth on his chest and informing everyone it is "Mash of Nettles." Jamie says, "If you must." Fergus is touching everything and playing with a rolled up bandage, unrolling it and wrapping it over his eyes. Claire admonishes him to stop playing around and pay attention. He says he is, but she counters that he's not. Jamie tells her that he doesn't feel anything and she assures him that he will, in a minute. She hands Jamie another vial, saying "Rose Madder. With luck the combination will cause severe stomach pain and vomiting." Murtagh assures Jamie he is in for a pleasant evening. He drinks it down. Claire asks, "Do you think you can get St. Germain's men to drink it?" He replies, "Aye, we'll break the corks of a few bottles. Can't sell damaged product. St. Germain's men will not let it go to waste. Trust me." "Well, once his men drink the spiked wine they should get flushed with fever. The nettles juice on the skin will cause blistering, and the rose madder should produce blood in the urine, all tell-tell symptoms" Jamie is starting to feel sick and exposes his reddening chest. Looking very pleased with herself, "Et voila! I give you smallpox!"
Murtagh grumbles, "Masquerades and games. What's next? A rousing game of charades?" Fergus jumps into the conversation informing them that the ladies at Madame Elise's play charades without any clothes on." Murtagh storms out Jamie tells Fergus to be quiet, and Fergus defends himself saying that he was being quiet. Then he storms out.
Claire rubs some cream on Jamie's chest. He's looking quite sick now. She observes that Murtagh is angry, and Jamie says he doesn't blame him. They both come to the conclusion that it's time to tell him, everything.
Murtagh is pacing in the courtyard and Jamie, still looking quite peaked, goes up to Murtagh and reveals everything they've been holding back about Claire's knowledge of what's to come. Claire watches the conversation from the window. After a while we zoom in on Jamie talking in Gaelic. Murtagh addresses him, "If you believe your wife to be a witch, then who am I to contradict you?" He strolls up to Jamie and punches him in the jaw, then says emphatically, "You should have trusted me with that knowledge from the beginning!" Murtagh rubs his hand and Jamie rubs his jaw and they smile as they're walking to the door to come back inside.
A while later in the courtyard two horses are saddled, Fergus is mounted and Claire is telling Jamie to be careful as he mounts his horse. She tells Fergus in French, "And you, don't do anything dim-witted." "Moi?" "Yes, you." "Oui, milady, I will watch over milord as well." Claire walks over to Jamie and he bends down to kiss her. "You're in good hands." "See you in a few days." They ride off.
Murtagh is inside sitting at a desk writing numbers on a sheet of paper. Claire comes into the room and looks at the numbers as he moves the sheet closer to her. We can see they listed sequentially from 1918 through 1945. "You lived through all these years." "Yes, this is the year I was born (pointing to 1918), and this is the year I became a nurse (pointing to 1939), a healer, during the world war." Murtagh asks her, "Ye ken what happens to the Jacobites?" "Yes, I know when the rising begins." "And you know how it ends too, and it doesn't end well." "No, unless we stop it from happening altogether." "But ye ken all the dates, when things will happen, when people will die." She nods her head and says, "I don't know about you, or Jamie, about any of us." Murtagh concludes, "Even knowing what Jamie says you do, I wouldn't want to bear that burden." He puts his hand on hers which are clasped over her belly bump, and gives her his sympathy.
Jamie and Fergus are galloping side by side toward Le Havre. Once there, Fergus sneaks into St. Germain's warehouse, avoiding the people inside, and steals two corked bottles, then delivers them to Jamie who's waiting outside. Jamie breaks the necks off both bottles, pours out some of the contents, and replaces it with liquid from a flask (remember, it contains essence of rosemary, bitter cascara, and rose madder). He gives the bottles back to Fergus and instructs him to place them where the men are sure to find them. Then he hands him a shaving brush and a small metal pitcher and tells him to brush the insides of their coats with the liquid (remember, it is nettle juice), being careful not to get it on his hands. Fergus runs off to do as he was told. They finish their objective and ride away together.
Jamie comes home late at night and Claire wakes up as he comes into their bedroom. She asks if it was a success, and he tells her he didn't linger to find out, but they'll find out soon enough. Claire tells him that it MUST work; Charles can't get his hands on that money. Jamie reassures her, "Dinna fash, mo nighean donn, noone can deliver pestilence and disease, it's us." He kisses her a few times, crawls into bed and she wraps her arms around him as he falls asleep almost immediately.
Jamie climes the stairs to Maison d'Madame Elise. As he enters the foyer, Prince Charles (Andrew Gower) motions to him to come to him and says, "Finally, you're here. I have been anxiously waiting." Jamie assures him, "I came as soon as I received your message." Then St. Germain (Stanley Weber) says in French, "That was hours ago. It's a very absurd choice. We cannot rely on him." Jamie reassures him in English that he came straight away, then Prince Charles tells St. Germain in French, "I would trust Lord Broch Tuarach with my life." St. Germain snickers, and Jamie asks how he can be of service. Charles tells him that there's been a catastrophe in Le Havre at the Comte's warehouse." St. Germain says, in French again, "Some of my men have been stricken down by --" and Charles finishes for him, "a mysterious illness which noone has been able to diagnose." Jamie looks concerned, "This illness, is it contagious?" and the Comte sneers, "Perhaps." Charles chimes in, "One should not openly speculate about the contagion of this malady." The Comte supplies in French, "We have the affected men hidden away for now, but they will soon be missed." Jamie asks, "How about the Harbor Master, has he been paid off? Is that not how you normally handle these things?" The Comte answers, again in French, "The man's too scrupulous for that." Prince Charles says, "This is why I sent for you James. We require you to transport the wine at once." Jamie argues, "This endeavor could jeopardize my cousin Jared's business." The Comte is furious! "I warned you that he would try to gouge us for an exorbitant fee!" Charles calms him down saying, "James knows this is no time for negotiation." The Comte scowls, "Be that as it may, I don't trust him. He has ruined me once before." Charles, cojolingly says, "James, you know this is not merely for financial gain. MARK ME. The profits of this endeavor will be the seed to expel the Hanovarian usurpers to my father's throne. This is to regain your soil, and to restore your blessed king." Jamie answers, "Of course, Your Royal Highness. I have yet to secure buyers, but I'll leave for Le Havre and arrange transport to my warehouse straight away." Prince Charles puts his hands on either side of Jamie's face and tells him, "You're a loyal and true patriot James. God speed." Then he holds out his hand for Jamie to kiss it. As Jamie tries to walk away, St. Germain blocks his path with a cane and scowls in French, "I will, of course, accompany you on the journey...along with The Almighty...to watch over my investment." Jamie smiles at him and Prince Charlie and says, "The road to Le Havre is a lonely one. Your conversation will provide a pleasant diversion." St. Germain scowls some more but lets him pass.
Suzette (Adrienne-Marie Zitt) is helping Murtagh get into a very fine vest and coat while he's scowling, "These hinder my movements." "You'll get used to it." "I don't want to get used to it. Playing the jester is bad enough, but playing it in this outfit is unbearable." Jamie comes into the room carrying a very fine coat and says, "We'll make a proper courtier out of you yet." A grinning Suzette says, "Indeed." "Another bleat like that and I'll see to it that and I'll see to the other side of yer jaw."
Claire breaks in with, "Perhaps we can think of another alternative. Do you even trust these men that you found?" Murtagh answers, "Money can buy anything if you ken where to look." "Fine. Do these highwaymen even have the proper attire to look the part?" Murtagh says, "Let's just say it will be a risky affair for a nobleman to be strolling along the Rue St. Honoré tonight." Jamie tells Claire they don't have time for an alternative. She asks, "Well what if you get caught. Have either of you thought of that contingency?" Jamie says he has but they won't get caught. She says this whole thing is dangerous and he agrees, "Tis" She looks at him funny and says, "Every now and then it is okay for you to lie to me, you know. Just to put my mind at ease." "I'll remember that next time."
Suzette is finished buttoning up Murtagh's beautifully embroidered vest and giggles and steps away to get his coat.
Claire says that she doesn't feel good about the situation, that it is needlessly risky. Perhaps they haven't throught it through enough. What about St. Germain?
As Suzette slides the coat on Murtagh he informs Claire that they do have a plan for him. Jamie reassures her, "I have thought it through and it will serve, Sassenach. But I'm not the one you should be concerned about. I'm simply a merchant transporting his goods. If you feel obliged saying your prayers for Murtagh FitzGibbons, he'll be the one in the line of fire."
He does look very fine indeed, but says, "If I do get caught, would you be so kind as to kill me. I refuse to be hanged in this rig-out."
Suzette walks up to Murtagh and says, "So let me get you undressed right away." She bows and drags Murtagh (not so reluctantly) with her.
Jamie and Claire are lying in bed together. He's rubbing with her belly. She confides, "I'm sorry about earlier. It's just that bad things tend to happen when we're apart." Jamie says, "We always find a way back to each other." They're both grinning, then Jamie is surprised and says, "What's that?... Did he?..." Claire says, "Yes, she did. She's been doing it a lot more recently." Jamie asks her, "Can he hear me? Ma dudh, wee un, it's your father. I canna wait to meet you." They look at each other tenderly and begin kissing. "Can we... with the bairn?" Claire assures him it's all right, he won't hurt them. Then she straddles him.
Louise (Claire Sermonne) and several of her lady friends including Claire and Toinette (Scarlett Mack) saunter into a room drinking, giggling, and gossiping about sex. Claire looks disgusted and uncomfortable, clearly out of her elemenet.
Several loaded wagons are making their way down a road on a dark night. We see very well dressed and armed highwaymen with scarves waiting. St. Germain is in the first wagon sitting next to the driver. He has a large pistol. Murtagh and the others secure scarves over their nose and lower faces. Men rush toward the wagons and St. Germain becomes suspicious. Then someone yells in French, "Come on, hurry. Don't move! Drop this at once!" St. Germain orders the driver not to stop. Someone yells, "Drop your weapons" and St. Germain says to keep moving. "We want that cargo! Hurry, hurry!"
Murtagh, in disguise but we know it's him, raises his pistol and points it at St. Germain as he continues to order the driver to keep moving. Murtagh fires over St. Germain's head and he stands up and aims a gun at Murtagh. Jamie holds his hands in the air surrendering. Another masked man says in French, "Drop your weapons! Do as we say, and you'll not be harmed. Your lives...are not worth a consignment. Get down!" St. Germain, still pointing his pistol at Murtagh says in French, "You will be hunted and hanged." Murtagh counters, "Not likely. Get down. Get down!" "Never! NEVER!" Jamie sneaks up behind the Comte and knocks him down as Murtagh shoots over their heads. Murtagh grabs Jamie and pretends to knock him out while the Comte watches. The other highwaymen drag the Comte off, yelling, "Do you have any idea from whom you are stealing? Let go of me!"
Back at Louise's parlour, the ladies are all gossiping about who's sleeping with whom, and Claire finally has enough and burst out with, "Doesn't it distress any of you how this city treats its poor and underpriviledged? Surely you must see the staggering numbers of them as you travel through the city. Just yesterday I saw a woman and her child, dead, in the middle of the road. It was absolutely horrible. Surely we must do something to change the situation."
Toinette agrees, "Madame Fraser, You are so very right. We should do something about these people. It is far too upsetting. We should have our husbands protest to The King." Louise agrees too, "Yes, yes, yes. I completely agree. Les gen d'armes should remove them to the less desirable parts of the city." The other ladies agree. Claire jumps up and storms out. Louise asks Claire if it's time. Claire says, "It's not the baby, it's just that, I'm sorry Louise, forgive me." Toinette says, "She's rather sensitive." And they go back to their gossiping about the cook and giggling.
At Hôpital d'Agnes Claire is nursing the sick and Fergus is playing with Bouton (played by Scamp). Claire is clearly very tired and having a hard time standing. Mother Hildegarde (Frances de la Tour) rushes up to her, worried. "Claire, you must sit. Rest." "Mother, yes, I will, I just have to attend to a few more patients." "If you do not want to become one yourself, you'll do as I say." She nods and lays down. Mother Hildegard notices some blood on her stockings near her hem, and lifts it up her skirt. She says, "You are bleeding, my dear. It is nothing to be concerned with. As you know, it is common to leak a bit at this stage. is taking a new position, but, the hour is late, you will stay here tonight." Claire says she can't, but Mother interrupts her and says sternly, "That was not a suggestion." Claire tells her she should send home word with Fergus. Her husband will worry. Mother agrees and says she'll see to that, and orders her to sleep. Now. Mother Hildegarde turns away looking very worried.
The next morning Jamie, the Comte, and the Prince are sitting around a table at Madame Elise's commiserating. The Prince says, "I shall be persona non grata with the bankers of Paris. An outcast, at the worst." Jamie tries to cheer him by saying, "I'm sure there will always be those who honor the Stuart name." Charles, chuckling, says that the French honor money only." The Comte, frustrated as usual, says in French, "It boggles... The thieves knew our route." Jamie counters with, "It's the most common route taken from Le Havre to Paris." "True, but their timing was impeccable." The Princesays in French, "An ambush is to lie in wait? A Les Disciple practice, no?" St. Germain won't let it go, "But that road, at that precise time, with our cargo? Hey you (addressing Jamie). Hey you! Yes you! You allege mere coincidence?" Jamie tells him, "False accusations can lead to dire consequences, Monsieur St. Germain." St. Germain jumps up and Jamie does to. "I remind you, I am of noble blood." Charles tries to calm them down. "Comte, by your own account, Lord Broch Tuarach saved you from injury or even death. Why should he risk himself? ... This discord, it will not recover my wine. Now King and God have been let down. All the sacrifices I've made these last months in France, lowering myself to a commoner, begging for money, have amounted to naught. So where will the House of Stuart stand if our cause fails? I will be forced to return home to Rome where even the Pope's good will for my father begins to run dry. Or worse, MARK ME, I will take my own life if I am forced to live in God-forsaken Poland." He starts to weep.
Jamie returns home, picks up a plate at the side-board, and starts to fill it. Fergus comes in and says, "Good morning, milord." "Where is my lady?" And Fergus informs him that she stayed the night at the hospital. Jamie is very worried, but Fergus reassures him that the hour was late so the Mother thought it would be best if the lady remains so not to travel the streets at night. I allowed it!" Jamie praises him, "Wow, I was wise to leave my wife in your charge." Fergus nods feeling proud of himself. Jamie asks him if he's hungry and Fergus says, "Always." Jamie nods to the food and says, "Come on." Fergus starts filling his plate and asks Jamie, "When will Murtagh be home?" Jamie informs him that he's gone to Portugal to sell the wine. It could be a month or two before he returns. "I will miss his happy face." "It's best he's not seen here for a time." "Milady says, 'Out of sight, out of mind'." Jamie's never heard her say that, but Fergus tells him she says it to him everyday.
Suzette comes in and interrupts them telling Jamie that Prince Charles has got himself in some trouble, at the salon. He's run up a substantial debt and refused to pay. Madame Elise has threatened to call for the gen d'armes unless restitution is made immediately. Jamie says, "No peace for the wicked." Fergus offers to go as proxy so Jamie can finish his meal and rest, but Jamie declines his offer. He says he must go himself so the gen d'armes won't make inquiries into their business affairs. Today of all days! Fergus decides that he will come with him to guard Jamie's right. Jamie tells him he'll be honored, and they leave.
At Madame Elise's establishment Jamie tells Fergus to wait for him while he takes care of business. But Fergus wanders around looking for some mischief to get into. Unfortunately, he wanders through an open doorway where there's a bright red British uniform hanging up. Fergus picks up a bottle and sniffs it (Lavendar I bet), and tucks it into his pocket. The door closes and Fergus turns around looking guilty, and scared.
Claire returns home from the hospital in a carriage looking very tired. She greets Magnus and he's looking very sheepish. Suzette asks her if she'd like a bath or something to eat. She asks where milord is, and Suzette turns away. She notes Jamies brace lying on the bed. Obviously he's back from Le Havre. Suzette bravely turns around and tells her that he's gone to the Bois de Boulogne. "Why would he go to the woods?" Suzette tells her that milord was called to Maison d'Elise, Prince Charles needed his help. After he arrived, milord got into a fight with an English officer. Claire demands to know which English officer but Suzette tells her she wasn't there, she heard it from Marie at the market earlier. Claire demands she tell her what happened. "The English soldier came darting out of a doorway, smashing into the walls, then milord appeared looking like the vengeance of God. It is just as Marie conveyed it."
Claire spots a note that says simiply, "I'm sorry. I must. J." and her heart breaks! "But you promised." She storms down the stairs and orders Magnus to get the carriage, she is going to the Bois de Boulogne. He tells her that milord wouldn't want her to. She can't go by herself, so she says he can come with her, but she's going. They head out at a break-neck speed with the carriage wheels sliding as they take the corner too fast. Claire is in bad shape already, and this frantic ride isn't helping. Plus she's scared to death, and mad as hell! "Damn you, you promised me. You promised me!"
They reach the woods and she jumps out. Magnus helps her as they hurry quickly toward sounds of sword fighting.
VO: I came through the fading light to find this. To stop them. Having found them, I could not intervene for fear of causing fatal interruption. All I could do was wait and see which of my husbands would die. Jamie or Frank.
Jamie and Black Jack Randall (Tobias Menzies) are fighting for their lives with all they've got. Black Jack says, "How did she forgive you?" They struggle, Black Jack bites him, and Jamie is knocked down.
Claire calls out and we she she's bleeding profusely onto her stockings and shoes, and onto the ground.
Back to the fighting, Jamie stabs Black Jack in the crotch and he falls down, bleeding profusely.
The gen d'armes show up on horseback and one of them yells, "Drop your swords immediately! Do not move! You are under arrest!"
Jamie sees Claire laying on the ground in agony, but he can't go to her as they yell at him to drop his sword. He does.
Magnus tells Claire they have to get her home, but she tells him to take her to the hospital, Mother Hildegarde.
Jamie yells to Claire as he sees her laying on the ground in agony, but he can't go to her as they yell at him to drop his sword. He does.
Jamie yells "Claire", and she weakly calls out "Jamie."
Flash to Black Jack laying on the ground. Closing his eyes.
Flash to Jamie, yelling, furious, helpless.
Flash to Claire again as her eyes close.
Credits roll... What an amazing episode!
The screen tells us it's Boston, 1954, and Claire (Caitriona Balfe) and her daughter (Niamh Elwell), with long red hair and a missing front tooth (about 5 years old by my calculation), are in a library looking at books with pictures of birds. She points at a picture and asks her mother what kind of bird that is. Claire informs her that it is a Heron. She asks her mother if she's ever seen one in real life, and Claire reponds that she has, in Scotland. Then she asks, "When were you in Scotland, Mama?" and Claire says it was a long time ago. Claire remembers, and we see a heron flying as the focus shifts to the ceiling at L'Hôpital des Agnes where Claire is laying on a table being comforted by Mother Hildegarde (Frances de la Tour), Sister Angelique (Audrey Brisson) is praying, and Monsieur Florez (Naill Greig Fulton) is working frantically. There's lots of blood.
Claire wakes up at the hospital some time later, and feels her belly, then in alarm, sits up and asks, "Where's my baby?" Mother Hildegarde comes up and tells her she must stay calm, and orders some water. Claire doesn't want water, she wants her baby! "I'm sorry, Madame, she has joined the angels. She was (in French) born dead." Sister Angelique points to a statue of the Virgin Mary and says, "The Virgin will comfort you, Madame. She, too, lost a child." Claire won't be comforted. She demands her baby, and jumps out of bed yelling for her baby, losing control. The statue is knocked over and shatters on the floor.
We see her several days later laying in bed, sweating, obviously with a high fever. Bouton (Scamp) is laying on the floor and Mother Hildegarde is laying a cool cloth on Claire's forehead. She wants to know where her baby is, and Mother tells her that she baptized her, and gave her the name "Faith". She also tells Claire that she must understand that what she did was illegal. A child must be alive to do that, but she wanted her to be buried in hallowed ground. "This, ma chère, will stay between you, me, and God." Mother Hildegarde has summoned Father Laurentin (Ilario Calvo) to give Claire last rites. Claire tells her she needs her husband, but Mother informs her that she's sorry, but there has been no word.
The priest asks Claire in French, "Would you like to make a last confession...so that you may unburden yourself of any sins?" Claire responds, "My sins are all I have left." He does his thing anyway, and Mother orders Bouton to stay close to her, and he jumps up on the bed to stand guard. The nun and the priest walk away.
Claire is shivering and moaning. Then a cloaked figure approaches the bed and Bouton growls. He orders him "Come down now, little dog" and Bouton jumps down. Then he orders Claire, "Be still now" and puts his hand over her mouth. "Be still now... Hush Madonna, if they find me here I'm finished." He pulls the hood off and we see Master Raymond (Dominique Pinon) without a wig. He puts his hands on Claire's cheeks and asks her what she sees. She tells him she sees blue wings. He tells her that blue is the color of healing, and the wings will carry away her pain if she lets them.
VO: "The white hottness burned deep in my bones. I knew what it was: puerperal fever. The baby had come, but parts of the placenta had not. It festered inside my womb. As Raymond's hands moved over the meridians of my body, I could feel the tiny deaths of the bacteria that inhabited my blood. Small explosions as each scintilla of infection disappeared. The fever drained from my bones, and my tortured body relaxed gratefully into the frame of his hands, melting and reforming like molded wax."
Master Raymond moved down lower and Claire was moaning in pain. He told her to call to him. "Jamie!" He pulled out a chunk of bloody placenta.
VO: "I don't know what he did, or how he did it, but he healed me. What's more, he saved my life."
Raymond hid away as a nun came running up to Claire, who said, "I'm all right. Tell Mother Superior." The nun crossed herself and said, "God be praised," then ran off.
Raymond came back and tells Claire, "Be well now. I must go Madonna." She tells him, "I'm not Madonna. I have no child."
"I didn't call you Madonna because you were with child, my dear. Everyone has a color about them, all around them like a cloud. Yours is blue, like the Virgin's cloak. Like my own."
"You shouldn't have come, it's too dangerous."
"You're right about the king, he wants blood now, (in French) Not only Hail Mary's. (In English) These are things you do for your friends."
"Will I ever see you again?"
"As I told you before, we will see each other again. (In French) Have faith."
Then he says to Bouton, "Come little dog. Back here, quickly!" and dashes away as we hear footsteps approaching. It's Mother Hildegarde and Sister Angelique. Mother touches Claire's forehead and says, "Yes. The fever has passed."
Sister Angelique asks (in French), "How can it be? It's a miracle." Mother agrees, "A miracle indeed. God be praised. Would you bring some broth, Sister?"
Claire asks Mother, "Has there been any word from Monsieur Fraser?"
"He is unable to come, Madame. He was arrested for dueling with the English Captain and is being detained in the Bastille St. Antoinne."
Claire asks, "For how long?"
"Dueling is a serious offense. I'm afraid your husband will remain in prison at the king's pleasure. If your husband had killed his opponent, the penalty would have been much worse."
"He's not dead, the English Captain?"
"He is badly wounded, and the British Ambassador begged for him to be allowed to recover from his injuries in England."
VO: "So Jack Randall was still alive. The cat with nine lives, and thus, so was Frank. But at what cost?"
"That is fortunate, no?"
"Yes, fortunate. But my husband betrayed me, Mother. Revenge mattered more to him than me, or his child."
"How so?"
"One year of grace is all I asked, to which he agreed. One year. He may as well have run his sword through me."
Mother Hildegarde clasps her hands together and says, "God says we must revel in mercy. Tred sins under foot. And hurl iniquities into the sea."
"I'm not sure there's a sea deep enough."
VO: "I laid in that bed for weeks. My body had healed, but my soul had not. One day Fergus came. He brought flowers and asked me to come home. I'd lost my husband and my child. Where else could I go?"
The carriage pulls up in the courtyard at Jared's apartment and the servants all line up to greet them. Fergus (Romann Berrux) gets out first and hands the flowers to a maid. He's looking especially sad. He helps Claire step down and they walk through the line of servants who are all looking very sad too. Suzette (Adrienne-Marie Zitt) is crying and kisses Claire's hand. Magnus (Robbie McIntosh) welcomes Claire home and she thanks him, and grabs his hand and bows to him. There's a tear running down her cheek.
Inside, we see Fergus brushing Claire's hair as she sits before a blazing fire. She raises her hand to his to stop him, then thanks him, saying it was nice. He puts the brush away on the bureau and stares at the bottles of scents. Claire asks him "What is it?" and he replies, "Nothing, Milady" and leaves the room.
Later that night Claire is standing in her shift in front of the fire. She notices the box of Apostle Spoons, opens it, and starts crying. She picks one of them up, then puts it away, slams the lid down and throws the box under the bed, kicking it angrily. She grabs her robe, throws it on, and storms out of the room weeping quietly. But she hears noises coming from Fergus' room. She goes in. He's crying out, "Stop, s'il vous plait!" She wakes him and tells him it's just a bad dream. "Do you want to tell me about it?"
He insists, "No, Milady" but she says gently that it might make him feel better.
"No, it's not just a dream ... The Englishman, Milady."
"What Englishman? Fergus, tell me!"
"I went with Milord to Maison d'Elise. Prince Charles owed money. He told me to wait. Milord told me to stay put, but I have a talent for stealing and I couldn't resist. One of the rooms was open and I saw a bottle of perfume. I wanted to bring it to Milady as a gift. It smelled so nice. I put it in my pocket. I kept the bottle but I was too afraid to give it to you after what happened. It's lavendar, Milady. When I turned around he was there, the Englishman (and we see Black Jack (Tobias Menzies) ARGHHHH!).
Black Jack says, "You're not what I ordered, but you'll do", then he lunges for poor Fergus.
Claire says, "Jesus Christ!" Fergus insists, "I tried to get away, I swear I did. I told him Milord was there, but he wouldn't listen. He said that he wanted me to ... (burying his head in the pillow) I can't say it in front of a lady." Fergus is crying and breaking all of our hearts! There's a brief (thank God) flashback of Black Jack throwing Fergus down and Fergus yelling, "Stop!"
Claire asks Fergus why he didn't tell her this sooner? He says, "I wanted to, but I was ashamed."
Claire tells him it's all right, but he rolls over weeping and yells, "No! No it's not! It's all my fault. I should have kept quiet. I didn't cry or scream at first. I couldn't help it."
Another brief but horrifying flashback of Fergus yelling and a white sleeve holding him down. "Stop! Milord!"
"Milord heard it, and he came running."
Jamie (Sam Heughan) is negotiating with Madame Elise (Michele Belgrande-Hodgson), hears the ruckus, opens the door and is horrified at what he sees! His face distorts into the most gut wrenching vision as he grabs Randall and punches him fiercely in the face.
"I hid under the dressing table. Then the fight was broken up. As soon as Milord was taken away, I heard him challenge the Englishman to a duel."
As several men pull Jamie off Randall, Jamie yells, "You sick bastard! A duel! I demand a duel!" and then he was dragged away.
Claire exclaims, "It's not your fault, Fergus!"
"I didn't know! I didn't know he would go to fight the Englishman! I didn't know! Now Milord is gone — He will never come back!" Claire pulls Fergus into her arms and hugs him fiercely, saying, "It's all right."
Claire goes to see Mother Hildegarde asking for her help in setting up a private audience with the king. "You have mentioned that you are the God-daughter of the old Sun King. Surely you have an entree, or you know someone who does."
"It is possible."
"I wish to petition for my husband's release from the Bastille."
"So, ma chère, you have found a deep enough sea."
"I learned the reason he broke his promise. I was angry at him. I still am. But he is the father of my child."
His Majesty is a mercurial man. There is a price to such requests. The king may expect to lie with you."
"If it comes to sacrificing my virtue Mother, I'll add it to the list of things I have already lost in Paris."
Claire goes to the palace at Versailles and is led by the
Gentleman of the Bedchamber (Guillaume Lecomte)
to her audience with the king. He led her through the huge room where Jamie and Duverney played chess. Good to see she has her poison-detecting necklace on. She's taken to the King's bed chamber and we see King Louis (Lionel Lingelser) again. He smirks as Claire curtsies and he gestures for her to approach, then says in French, "Do not be afraid of me, my dear Madame. I don't bite." Claire returns, "No, ...of course not." "Sit, please." Claire curtsies again and sits down.
The king asks (in French), "Will you have a sip of warm chocolate? It's from New Spain." She graciously accepts. Then he offers an orange from his Orangerie. He's proud that he has over a thousand trees. He hands her the chocolate and orange, then sits next to her on the bench. Very cat and mouse...
Grinning at her, he says (in English), "Now, tell me what it is that I may do for you."
"My husband is in the Bastille, for dueling."
Now, not smiling, he informs her, "Your husband has broken a royal decree."
"I understand that, but he was provoked. As you know, he's a Scot, and they are most fierce where questions of their honor are concerned."
"Quite so. Quite so, Madame. However..."
"I would be most grateful, Your Majesty." Louis picks up Claire's right hand and asks if the ring she's wearing is her husband's. She tells him it is. Then he notices her other wedding ring on her left hand. Claire explains to him that she was married once before. "And yet you still wear his ring. Your loyalty is most noteworthy." The king kisses both rings slowly as Claire looks away. He says, "I am inclined towards mercy, ma chère, Madame. But ..." Louis saunters over to the huge bed.
VO: "He was called Louis, the Well Beloved. His rule was absolute. He could free Jamie with a word, or kill him. He could do with me as he liked. I waited to see what His Majesty's pleasure might be."
"Tell me, if I was to grant your request to free your husband, would you be inclined to grant me a small favor in return?"
"I am at Your Majesty's complete disposal." Claire bows her head.
"Ah. Tres bien. Tres bien ma chère. Come." He holds out his hand to her.
Claire puts down the orange and looks at the bed. Then walks towards him. He strokes her face and says, "So pale...so fine. I can see why they call you... La Dame Blanche." Then he leads her quickly to a hidden doorway and motions her through. He barges through another pair of doors and she follows him into a an elaborate round chamber with lights shining down from small openings in the domed ceiling. Men in black masks with spears guard all of the exits.
"The King asks that you give us the benefit of your skills."
VO: "When I saw Monsieur Florez, the King's executioner, I knew his presence could mean only one thing. There would be death here today."
"I'm not sure what you mean, sire."
The King orders two of the guards to open some doors and two more masked guards ussure in Master Raymond and the Comte St. Germain, both looking pretty worried.
The King orders Monsieur Florez to read the indictment, which he does, in French. "Master Raymond and Comte St. Germain, You are hereby charged with sorcery...and the perversion of the search for knowledge...into an exploration of arcane arts. You stand accused of...plundering the teaching...of ancient alchemists...and employing the dark arts...for your own...agenda."
The King states, "We have no quarrel with the proper search for wisdom, but while much good may be found, so too may evil be discovered. And the search for wisdom be perverted into the desire for power and wealth for one's own depraved and immoral purpose."
Monsieur Florez chimes in (in French) with, "We must also...consider the evidence...which has been collected...both from the apothecary of Master Raymond...and the residence of Le Comte St. Germain."
The King states (in French), "We have brought here a witness. An infallible judge of truth. The White Lady (La Dame Blanche). A pure heart that cannot lie...she can see into the soul of a man and sense whether evil lies within."
Claire mumbles under her breath, "Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ"
The King continues (in English), "I beseech you to use your talents. Look into their souls, and if there is darkness within, they will be handed over to Monsieur Florez and put to death!"
Claire nods to the King, and says, "It will be an honor to assist Your Majesty in this task."
"Very well, let's commense."
Claire walks over to Master Raymond and stares at him for awhile. Then she steps towards St. Germain, who's looking VERY worried. She closes her eyes, puts her left hand up to her forehead and says, "I see a shadow... behind your eyes, Comte."
The Comte is quite unfomfortable, turns around, bumps into a guard, then sniggers like he's being persecuted undeservedly.
Claire continues, "I see an image, a gang of men in the street, dressed as aristocrats but wearing masks. There is a name in your mind, Monsieur. Les Disciples. What do you know of Les Disciples, Monsieur?"
"I know nothing of this Les Disciples of which you speak."
"You are lying, sir."
"I am not lying. I am NOT LYING! I AM NOT LYING, SIRE! This woman is a liar and a witch. This woman has also know to drink poison and survive."
The King asks, "How do you come to this knowledge?"
"Because I gave her the poison myself. She tried to ruin my livelihood, she had my ship destroyed with her false condemnations. She's a witch. And she doesn't deny it."
Claire, looking directly into St. Germain's eyes, replies, "No, I don't deny it. La Dame Blance is a white witch, and I practice white magic, sire."
The King reassures them all, "Madame Fraser is not on trial here."
VO: "Even knowing St. Germain tried to poison me, I found it hard to condemn him coldbloodedly to death."
Claire, still looking directly at St. Germain, says, "I see darkness in his soul." Then she steps over to Master Raymond, lifts his chin, and says, "Also in his. But only the normal darkness that lives in the souls of all men (looking pointedly at Monsieur Florez, then stepping to stand in front of Louis) Even a king's. For without darkness, there can be no light."
Louis says, "Nevertheless, if I am to cleanse this city I must make an example. Perhaps we can aid your decision. (In French) Bring out the serpent!"
The guards roll out a large box and lift the cloth covering it to reveal a huge snake. Both St. Germain and Master Raymond look pretty worried at this point. Claire too.
Louis says, "The Bible claims that a true believer can handle serpents and they will not harm him for they're in the service of God."
Claire looks over at the evidence table and proposes, "Perhaps, Your Majesty, I may suggest another test. It is true, I drank the Comte's poison and it did not kill me. Let them drink mine and see what happens. Let them both drink it, with your permission." The king agrees.
VO: "I decided to take a page out of Master Raymond's book, so to speak. I looked through the evidence, the remnants of his shop, and found the herb I was looking for. Bitter Cascara. I knew the Cascara would make both men ill, but wouldn't kill them. And perhaps Louis, having had his show, would be appeased, and set them free."
She pours the bitter cascara into a shallow bowl and says to Louis, "This potion will give you your answers, sire. We may have a death, or two, but I ask one thing. If both these men survive, you will set them free."
"We shall see if it pleases the King."
Claire takes the potion to Master Raymond, who looks hesitant, but drinks some. He starts coughing, gagging, and groaning a bit, doubling over. But then he straightens up and is fine. He hands the bowl back to Claire. But in a close up we see he's added something to the cup.
Immediately after she gets the bowl, the stone in her necklace starts to turn black. She notices it, and so does St. Germain, who also knows what that means. He shakes his head.
VO: "I never saw Raymond add anything to it, noone had, it was another amazing feat, a slight of hand like the one he's shown me in the shop."
The King orders Claire to give him (St. Germain) the cup.
VO: "All I knew is that this time, inside the cup, was death. St. Germain knew it too."
St. Germain is very distressed, crying. The King orders him to drink. He takes the cup from Claire and says (in French), "Oh well. I salute you Master Raymond. You evil bastard. And you...witch who sucks the cock of the Devil. I'll see you... in Hell." He drinks it, drops the cup, and has a very dramatic death scene, gagging, coughing, falling down face to the floor, drooling, and exhaling for the last time.
The King steps over St. Germain's body and addresses Master Raymond in French, "Count yourself fortunate...but leave today and never...set foot in France again." He motions "Away" with his hands, and the guards escort Master Raymond out.
VO: "Perhaps it was the shock of what I'd been through, but as Master Raymond was led away, what ran through my brain was a line from a film, you know the one, I'M GOING TO MISS YOU MOST OF ALL." —Dorothy to the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz
Claire says boldly to the King, "You're going to honor my request."
He replies, "First there is the matter of payment." He grabs her hand and quickly drags her back to his bed chamber. He sits her down on his bed and pushes her shoulders down so she's lying on the cover. He lifts her skirts, and unbuckles his pants, sliding them down, and commences his business transaction.
VO: "I closed my eyes and thought of England."
An extremely short (presumably unsatisfied) time later, he was pulling up his britches. Claire opened her eyes, sat up, pulled her hair around to the front, and pushed down her skirts.
"I will issue a pardon for your husband, and arrange one should you wish to return to Scotland." Then Louis looked at her, still sitting, and gestured for her to leave. She got up as straight-backed and dignified as possible and walked out, grabbing the orange as she passed the table where she'd set it down earlier. She curtsied to the King before leaving the chamber. About halfway through the library she stopped, looked back, and the Gentleman of the Bedchamber who is escorting her out cleared his throat. She turned and followed him.
Back at the house we see Jamie slowly, hesitantly climbing the circular stairs. Claire meets him at the top but is avoiding his eyes. Nobody says anything for awhile, then Jamie says in a very rough voice, "I don't even know if it was a boy or a girl. Claire. Would you make me beg?"
We finally see his face and he has quite a bit of beard there (indicating he's been in the Bastille a while). She slowly walks away from him, then turns around and sits down on a bench. "It was a girl. Mother Hildegarde baptized her, gave her a name — Faith. Mother Hildegarde has a very odd sense of humor. She's buried in the cemetary next to the convent."
"I, I did try to keep my promise."
"Fergus told me what happened."
"Then ye see I couldna let Randall go unpunished for what he did to the wee lad. ... Do you hate me for it Claire?"
"I did hate you. (We flash back to the statue of the Virgin Mary shattering on the floor and Claire demanding to see her baby at the hospital) Mother Hildegarde let me see her so I wouldn't have to imagine."
We flash back to Mother Hildegarde putting the tiny baby wrapped in a blanket in Claire's arms. "She was beautiful. So small, I could cup her head in the palm of my hand. Her ears stuck out just a little. You could see the light through them, the light through her skin as well, like the light on a pearl that's still wet from the sea. Her eyes were closed, no lashes yet, slanted a bit like yours. She had whisps of the most beautiful copper hair."
Another flash back of Claire singing very quietly to Faith. "Oh, I do like to be beside the sea side. Oh, I do like to be by the sea. I like to stroll along the Prom, Prom, Prom!..."
Chidren's Song: I do like to be beside the seaside
Written by: John A. Glover-Kind in 1907
Lyrics for the first verse:
Oh! I do like to be beside the seaside
Oh! I do like to be beside the sea!
Oh! I do like to stroll along the Prom, Prom, Prom!
Where the brass bands play:
Tiddely-om-pom-pom!
Later, Claire is still cradling Faith. Louise de Rohan (Claire Sermonne) asks Mother Hildegarde how long it's been, and the Mother says since this morning. "Holy Mother of God."Louise, cradling her own baby bump, walks hesitantly up to Claire, touches her shoulder, and says, "Ma chère, Claire."
Claire tells Louise, "She's beautiful, isn't she." Louise agrees. "Ten fingers, ten toes."
Louise tells Claire, "She's an angel. May I hold her?" Claire frowns, aware of what they're up to. In French Louise says, "It's time, my dear." Claire sobs (hell, everyone who'se watching this is sobbing), kisses her head, and hands her to Louise. Louise hands the baby to Mother Hildegarde and tries to console Claire, who'se sobbing.
Back to Claire and Jamie. "So YES, I HATED YOU!"
Jamie says, "Aye." and slowly turns away and sits down himself.
"But, it was me, who asked the impossible of you. It was me who put Frank before our family. It was me who followed you to the woods."
Jamie says, "No, Frank was your family too."
"But he's not here. And now neither is our daughter. It's not your fault. It's not even Randall's fault, not this time. It's my fault."
"Mo ghràidh (my love in Gaelic), I asked your forgiveness once. You said there's nothing to forgive. Truth is, I already forgave you, long before today, for this, and anything else you could ever do."
Claire admits, "There's something else. I slept with the King to buy your freedom."
"You did it to save my life. Just like I gave myself to Randall to save you."
Claire, quite flustered, says, "How can we ever be the same?"
"We can't be. The weight of what has happened here is too much for any one of us to bear alone. The only way we can live with it is to carry it ... together."
"Are you sure you want to do that?"
"We lost our child, and by the grace of God we might be given another. "
"Then bring me home ... to Scotland."
Jamie starts tearing up. "Aye. Scotland. But there's something I'd like to do first.
Jamie and Claire are at Faith's grave. The gravestone says simply "Faith Fraser, d. 1744" Jamie kisses one of the Apostle Spoons and lays it on the grave saying, "St. Andrew. If we must bury you here in France, let's leave a bit of Scotland wi'ye.
S02-E08: The Fox's Lair — Directed by Mike Barker; Written by Anne Kenney
VO (Claire): "We returned to heal in the peace of the Scotish Highlands. Jamie's sister Jenny (Laura Donnelly) and her husband Ian (Steven Cree) had another baby while we were in Paris. Their welcome, and the daily routines of Lallybroch, worked like a tonic on our battered souls. We hoped we had done enough to stop the war. We began planning our future, but as a very prescient Scot (Robert Burns) once observed, 'The best laid schemes of mice and men...'"
Rabbie MacNab (Jamie Kennedy) comes running up to Claire carrying a basket of potatoes he's been digging up in the field, yelling, "Claire, Claire, they're ready! Look how bit they are! They're GIANT!"
Claire (Caitriona Balfe) picks up one of the potatoes, examining it, stating "Oh my goodness, Rabbie, so they are."
"Can we eat them tonight?"
"I don't see why not. Come on, let's go ask Mrs. Crook"
Inside the house, Rabbie dumps the basket of potatoes onto the table. Mrs. Crook (Margaret Fraser), holding the baby, says, "A grand potato if ever I saw one."
Jenny picks one up, smiling, and corrects her, "You've never seen one, not on Fraser land, not 'till now. You were right telling us to plant them Claire. 'Tis a fine crop.'
Mrs. Crook is confused, "I dinna see how you'd grind them for parritch."
Jamie (Sam Heughan) says, "I dinna believe ye grind them, Mrs. Crook."
Mrs. Crook says, "Oh aye, what do you do with them then?"
Surprisingly, Fergus (Romann Berrux) jumps into the conversation and says, "You boil them, eat them with salt. Butter is good too!"
Claire adds, "Or roast them, mash them with milk."
"I dinna ken you can cook, Sassenach."
"I'm not sure I can cook, but I can certainly boil a potato."
"Then we shall have a feast," Jamie says. They're snuggling together, and kissing each other.
We hear a door opening and Jenny turns around as Ian and Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) enter the house laughing. "Wipe your feet and take off your filthy boots before you tramp all over this rug."
Mrs. Crook says to Rabbie and Wee Jamie (Aaron Wright), "Come along lads, you can help me scrub them clean."
Ian informs the group, "I ran into Hector on the way up. Got the post from him, hey". He kisses Jenny on the cheek and hands her most of the mail. "Oh, Jamie. Here's one for you."
Claire is looking at a letter she got. "Louise!"
Jenny is going through the rest. "It's the bill for the seed. And one from Aunt Jocasta. Good, we haven't heard from her in months."
Ian asks, "Now, did ye get the ploughshare fixed?"
Smitty says it's broken straight through. Canna be re-forged. We'll have to hand-till until we can get a new one."
Murtagh muses, "I canna believe I've become a farmer."
Jenny is grinning about the four books she unwrapped, "Oh, three French novels and a book of poetry from Paris. Which one shall we read tonight?"
Jamie is reading his letter over by the window, and curses in Gaelic. Claire asks, "And what is it?" Then she goes over to Jamie and skims the letter herself.
Dear cousin, I was so pleased to learn about actions on behalf of the Jacobite cause. Words cannot express my admiration for your boldness and courage in the face of such a struggle for our noble cause. My prayers are with you and may they help keep you safe in your righteous fight for our King across the water. Respectfully Yours Cousin (Jared)
Then she snatches the second letter and turns it over to reveal Prince Charles Stuart's crest.
Jamie is clearly upset. "Aye, it declares a Stuart's devine right to the throne of Britain, supported by the chieftains of the Highland clans, signed by those pledging loyalty to Charles Stuart."
Claire starts to read off the list of names: "MacKinnen, Oliphant, MacDonald of Glencoe, James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Fraser." She looks up scared.
"Jesus Bloody Christ, he's forged your signature."
"Aye, he has."
Murtagh confirms their worst fears, "Charles has landed in Scotland and is gathering his army."
Jenny says, "This was published, distributed. The names on this are traitors to the crown."
Jamie is sitting down looking far away. Claire comes up to him looking very somber, saying simply, "Jamie."
Jamie is out in a field with his right foot on a fallen tree, rubbing the stiff injured fingers on his left hand. Claire charges up behind him and says, "It's all coming to pass, isn't it. The Jacobite rising, Culloden, the Clearances, the destruction of all of this."
"So it would seem," Jamie concurs.
"We could go to Ireland, or the Colonies."
"What of Ian and Jenny? My nieces and nephews, our cousins."
"We can bring them with us."
"All of them? And what of our tenents? Leave them to the mercy of the British butchers, if the Culloden is lost."
"Your name on that document brands you as a traitor to the British. And you will be hung as one if they catch you. We can't stay."
"We know what will happen if the Jacobites lose the war. But... but what if they win?"
"They don't! It's the verdict of history."
"Have you given up trying to change the future then, Sassenach?"
"Well, after Paris, haven't you?"
"Paris was bitter disappointment. But you can change the future, you've proven that. Tammas Baxter lives because of you. Paris was spared an outbreak of Smallpox because of you. And Louise de Rohan will bear Charles Stuart's bairn because of you."
"You want to fight for Prince Charles?"
"Fight for our family, and for Scotland. Canna see any other way. Can you?"
Claire, shaking her head and looking resigned, says, "Not one that we could live with. They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result." (quote from Albert Einstein)
"Well, I do not ken who they are, Sassenach, but I'll wager they have never traveled through time." They embrace, trying to comfort each other.
Ian tells Jamie, "So, with Daniel Wallace and Duncan MacLennan you should have 30 able-bodied men from Lallybroch."
"Good. Murtagh, I need you to bring the men to Kingussie. Claire and I will meet you there in two weeks. We'll go together to join the Prince at Creiff."
"As ye say."
Claire storms up and asks, "And where will we be during these two weeks?"
"Uh, Prince Charles has dispatched me to enlist men and support from our kinsman, Lord Simon Fraser of Lovat."
Jenny overhears this and asks, incredulously, "Ye're going to see Lord Lovat? Ask him to do ye a favor?"
Jamie clarifies, "Ask him to help preserve his country and restore the rightful king to the throne. He does have a history of supporting the Jacobites, ye ken."
"Oh, aye, and the British, and anyone else that'll help him line his pockets and claim the title Chief of Clan Fraser of Lovat."
"A position he is entitled to and has held for over twenty years."
You're devending the old buzzard now? Father must be birling in his grave."
Claire asks, "Who is Lord Lovat?"
Both Jamie and Jenny reply together, "Our grandsire." Jenny continues, "Who we've laid eyes on once in our lives when he came to visit just after our mother died. Father threw him out before he could cross the threshold."
"Why?"
Jamie explains, "He tried to have our mother kidnapped and taken to the Monach Isles in order to prevent our father from marrying her. There was some bad blood between Lovat and the MacKenzies."
Claire fills in, "A situation I assume Prince Charles is unaware of."
'Tis not only degrading for you to crawl to that man and ask him for help, 'tis a fool's errand. The 'Old Fox' does nothing that's not in his best interest, and NEVER without a price."
Jamie counters heatedly, "No, what would be foolish, Janet, would to let pride stand in the way of doing whatever I can to save Lallybroch, Scotland, and EVERYTHING that we hold dear!" Turning to Claire he says, "We'll leave for Beaufort Castle first thing tomorrow." Then he storms up the stairs.
Later that night, up in their room, Jamie looks guilty and admits to Claire, "I havena been completely honest with ye about my family, Sassenach."
"What do you mean?"
"My father ... he was a bastard. Acknowledged by his father Lord Lovat, but a bastard nonetheless."
"And your grandmother?"
"Lord Lovat's kitchen maid. She raised my father at Beaufort Castle. I should have told ye before we wed. (takes off his shirt) I'm sorry. It was cowardly of me."
"Jamie, you must know that your father's parentage makes no difference to me."
"Hm, well, it should." He kisses her sweetly.
"It doesn't." He picks her up while he's kissing her (a fair amount of skill is involved). "Let's go to bed."
"Aye." And that's where he takes her... <Fade out...>
Claire wakes up hearing faint noises, someone speaking Gaelic softly. She reaches over to Jamie's side of the bed and discovers he's not there. So she gets up to investigate... Peering over the banister she sees him sitting with his legs up on the sofa below, his plaid wrapped all around him, talking softly to a baby. Jenny and Ian's baby Katherine.
Jenny comes up to Claire and says, "The bairn couldna sleep, and neither could Jamie. He thought they could keep each other company for a bit while Ian and I slept. And he's trying to get back on my good side."
"Did it work?"
"It's a start. Ye can talk to a wee one in a way ye canna talk to anyone else. You can pour out your heart to them without choosing your words, or holding anything back at all. And that's a comfort to the soul. It's the way we talk to them before their born. Ye know."
"Yes, I know."
"A man has to wait until the child's born, and then they hold their bairn, feel all the things that might be, and all the things that might never be. And weep, not knowing which ones will come to pass."
Claire says to Ian, "Take care of your Fraser."
And he says to her, "Aye, and you yours."
Jenny tells Jamie, "Take this. (Jenny puts a rosary over his head) It brought Ian back to me from France." Jamie kisses the cross.
"Ye gave Ian a token when we went to France, and no' me? And him not even your betrothed at the time."
"Don't make me regret giving it to ye now. <tearing up and hugging him> If ye no come back, brother, I'll never forgive ye."
"Never is a very long time."
"I know."
Murtagh comes outside and bellows, "Jes where do ye think ye're going?" He's directing this to Fergus who's on a small donkey (his real name is Archie).
"Well, with milord!"
Ian says grinning, "Ye're too young to fight, laddie. Ye'll bide here wi' us."
Jenny adds, "Ye can help Rabbie in the stables till Milord returns."
"But, I belong with you. Is that not what you told me, Milady, that I will always have a home with you?"
"Yes, of course, but sometimes it's ..."
Jamie breaks in saying, "He's right. His place is no' here, without us, nor in France on his own." To Murtagh he instructs, "Bring him with ye, Murtagh, when ye come with the men."
"Aye, if I havena killed him first."
"Dinna fash, Claire. I'll keep him well away from the battle." Addressing Fergus, "The outcome is in yer hands, laddie. A good soldier must learn to obey his commanding officer (motioning to Murtagh), as well as his General."
I think he says to Claire, let's go, but I'm not sure.
Jenny comes up to Claire to give her a hug. "Take care of each other. And watch out for my grandsire."
"I will. Good bye Jenny."
Then Jamie and Claire mount up and head to Beaufort Castle (Jamie on a beautiful black horse, wonder if it's Sleepy, and Claire on a white horse that looks like the one Jamie was riding in France when he and Fergus rode to Le Havre to sabbotage the wine and sailor's coats). Beautiful scenery and music playing in the background.
VO: "During our ride to Beaufort Castle, Jamie filled me in on what he knew of his grandfather. Over the last 50 years, Lord Simon Fraser of Lovat had been alternately loyal to exhiled King James and the monarch sitting on the British throne. His personal life was equally infamous. Aside from numerous extra-marrital dalliances, Lord Lovat had had three wives, two of them acquired by nefarious means."
They are escorted into the great hall by a Beaufort servant (Ross Mann) who says, "Lord Lovat will be with you shortly."
Claire, straightening her hair a bit, says, "I do wish we'd had a chance to freshen up a bit before meeting your grandfather."
"Dinna fash, Sassenach. Ye look bonnie. Though, ye do have a few tassle heaps in your hair." He pulls out a few stray bits.
A loud voice from off camera says, "Leave them, they suit her." We see Colum MacKenzie (Gary Lewis) hobble into the room on his rickety legs.
Jamie is surprised to see him there. "Colum!"
"I arrived this morning myself. I saw ye enter the courtyard from my window."
"What are ye doing here?"
"Well, I'm here to discuss a response to the rebellion with Lord Lovat, as I assume you are. War, it makes for strange bed fellows." To Claire he says, "I'm pleased to see that you're well." He grabs her hand.
"You'll have to excuse me if I find that hard to believe," and she jerks it away from him. "The witch trial, Colum."
"You seem to be implying that I had something to do with your involvement in that. It was simply my impression that you were in the wrong place at the wrong time."
"Yes, I was. Thanks to a message from your kitchen maid, Laoghaire, who just happened to know the exact time and place of the arrest."
"A gross overstepping of her place, for which I had her beaten. I would have thrown her out of Leoch, but her grandmother, Mrs. Fitz, persuaded me she could keep the girl in check."
Jamie asks, "Is Dougal with ye?"
"No, it became clear that it was best for the clan that my brother remain at his own estate."
Claire states, "Surely Dougal would be the one leading Clan MacKenzie in fighting for King James."
"I'd forgotten what a curious mind you have lass."
We hear a loud bang and everyone turns to look at Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat (a.k.a., The Old Fox —Clive Russell) standing just inside the doorway.
"So, the rumor is true, the grandson of Lord Simon Fraser of Lovat has burdened himself with a Sassenach. I suppose ye are yer father's son after all. Would ye expect the boy to have more sense choosing a wife than did the bastard who made him?"
"At least I had no need to take a wife by means of rape, or trickery."
"Ha, ha, no as serious as yer father. Good. Enough breath wasted on women. Leave us. It's time to talk politics with my grandson and my rival."
Jamie nods to a frowning Claire and she stomps out of the room.
VO: "While Jamie's meeting dragged on, I took the opportunity to look over the place that Lord Lovat called home."
"Mistress Fraser, I've been looking for ye since I heard you were here." It's Laoghaire MacKenzie (Nell Hudson) walking up to Claire, who's shocked and backing away from her.
"Laoghaire!"
"Did the laird not tell you I'm with him?"
"No."
"My grandmother sent me along to wash his laundry and help wherever I'm needed. I wanted to find ye though because... (getting down on her knees) I need to tell ye, I am changed, and I am sorry beyond measure for the horrible wrong I did to ye. My grandmother has made me see I canna be right with God until I make amends for the pain my evil actions have caused. I believe it is God who brought us together here so I could do so."
"God. You speak of God. How often have I thought about what I would do whenever I saw you again. I have fantasized all manner of violent acts I would subject you to, all of them ending with the lighting of a fire beneath your feet and dancing on your ashes as you promised to dance on mine. (Laoghaire is crying crocodile tears) I don't hate you Laoghaire. I pity you for the dark places you must have inhabited in the hopes of getting something that you'll never have. As for getting right with God, you'll have to find another way, 'cause I can't help you."
Claire has been recounting her encounter with Laoghaire to Jamie in their bed chamber. Claire says, "Maybe God did bring us together. Somehow I feel lighter."
"Aye, you're more forgiving than I am, Sassenach. I wouldn't have given the brazen bizzen the time of day."
"Perhaps. So, will I be allowed to join you at dinner tonight?"
"Oh, aye. My grandsire is no opposed to a bit of decoration at the dinner table. As long as that decoration doesna speak. (Claire is being unusually quiet) Aye, just like that. Now come along."
Jamie is stating, "Every man here knows that to most British, all Highlanders, no matter their allegiance, we're all the same. Savage dogs better put down than let live. After three uprisings, the British army will be motivated to put us down for good. To save our clans, our country, our very way of life, we must band together under the true king, King James, fight, and we must win!"
Colum chimes in, "We're very fortunate to have among us such a close confidant of the Prince. Isn't that so, Lovat? We're lucky to have somebody to give us an inside view of this holy rebellion."
"Aye, but I dinna know how holy it is."
"So can ye tell us then nephew, how much support have the French agreed to give?"
"The French have already supported us Colum, by engaging the British army in Flanders, reducing the troops for many a year. ... The Prince is certain the French will want to press the advantage, send men and artillary to support the Jacobites."
Colum get's it. "Oh, so the French have not yet committed to Prince Charles."
Lord Lovat says, "Always an unreliable ally, the French."
Jamie continues, "We will welcome the French support when it comes, but we dunna need it. The Jacobite army is already a thousand men strong in Crieff. MacDonalds, Camerons, Stuarts, Grants, and more joining every day. The majority of the British army remain on the continent licking their wounds."
All during this discussion, Lord Lovat's son Simon (The Young Fox — James Parris) has been flirting with Laoghaire who has been filling cups.
He jumps up and says, "I have heard the British have offered 30,000 pounds for the capture of Prince Charles."
His father asks, "Meaning what?"
"Meaning the British see Prince Charles as a real threat."
Jamie raises a glass and says, "You join us then, cousin" (he's really his uncle, not cousin).
Old Lord Lovat says, "Perhaps the British know as the rest of us do how many culliens there are amongst the Cambells and the Camerons, men who would sell their own grandmother for half that amount."
Young Simon, "Well, aye..."
Old Simon, "For 30,000 pounds the British could end this rebellion before it even starts, a fair site less than it would cost them to wage a war."
Young Simon, "I hadn't considered that."
Old Simon, "Then sit down ye mealy mouthed wee smout, and dinna speak again until ye have considered what ye're about to say." He then grabs Laoghaire by the arm, touches her face and tells her, "Bring us more wine, my lovely" while looking at his son. "And a glass of milk for my boy." Everyone is snickering.
Old Simon, "Enough war talk tonight.
As Claire and Jamie are leaving the building heading into rain, Claire says, "I got the impression that Colum was trying to use you to convince Lord Lovat not to join the rebellion."
"The first Jacobite rebellions failed and Colum will never support another. He wants Lovat's clan to stay neutral with the MacKenzies knowing that the smaller clans will follow. The rebellion will collapse before it ever gets started."
"Why doesn't Colum just speak to him directly?"
"My grandsire doesna trust my uncle. Using me is a much more effective strategy. I need to speak to Lovat on my own, without Colum leading me to make his arguments for him. It's a pity, Young Simon is such a spineless creature. I believe he could influence his father's decision if he took a strong stance for our side."
"The man has nothing but contempt for the poor boy."
"Ah, he's just trying to toughen him up, make him a viable successor to lead Clan Fraser of Lovat. ... My grandsire had the perfect opportunity to say no to us tonight, but he didn't. Perhaps Jenny was right. He wants something in exchange."
Claire is walking down a hall of the castle and hears Lord Lovat yelling, "Do ye think ye can toy with me? Ye're keeping something from me, old hag! And I'm no havin it!" He'd pushed an old woman down and she's weeping softly. Claire goes to investigate.
"Are you all right? Here, let me help you." She reaches down and helps the woman to her feet.
"Mistress."
"I'm Claire."
"Maisri (Maureen Beattie), Lord Lovat's seer." Then the woman runs away in fear.
Lord Lovat is talking to Jamie. "I'll wager your father painted a dark portrait of my character."
"He said very little about ye."
"He chose that MacKenzie whore..."
"And I'll ask ye to keep a civil tongue when ye speak of my mother!"
"... over me, his father. Twice. First when I told him not to marry her..."
"Ye're kidnapping attempt failed."
"... The second time she was dead and burried, I was willing to forgive him, make him my successor despite the fact he was a bastard. And he chose her, that place..."
"Lallybroch" Jamie supplies.
"... over me. Is it true?"
"What?"
"That ye've no pledged yer fielty to Colum MacKenzie?"
"That's what ye're after, is it? My fielty to you in exchange for sending aid to Prince Charles."
"To be honest, I'm more interested in what goes with it."
"Oh, what need have ye of Lallybroch? It's tenents rents would probably make no difference to a place like this."
"What I'd do with that damnable place would be no concern of yours. I'm your grandsire, the head of your clan after all. I demand my due."
"If I wouldna give my pledge to Colum, who I know to be kin, then what sort of fool would I be to give it to an old twister that may or may not share my blood. Ye made free of yer housemaids, perhaps others did too."
"Ha, ha, ha, ha! Oh, Christ laddie ... (cough, cough) implying yer grandmother was a whore to keep what you want, oh, yer my kin alright! Would that my son had half yer mettle."
"I'll give ye the same pledge I gave Colum. My help and good will, my obedience to your word so long as my feet rest on Lovat soil."
"Did ye not hear me? It's yer father's precious estate I'm after. If ye'll no give me Lallybroch in exchange for men for Prince Charles, ... How about this: Lallybroch for yer wife's honor."
Jamie chuckles, "Go ahead. Try to ravish my wife. After she's done with ye, I'll send in the maid to sweep up your remains."
"Not I lad, though I've taken my pleasure with worse. Your grandmother comes to mind. But there are many men at Beaufort Castle who'd be of a mind to put your Sassenach wench to the only use she's good for. Ye canna guard her night and day."
"Nah, I needn't worry, grandsire. My wife's a rare woman, ye ken, a wise woman. La Dame Blanch. The White Lady."
"The Sassenach, a white chit?"
"Aye, it's true. A man who takes her in an unholy embrace will have his privates blasted, like a frost-bitten apple. Then his soul will burn forever in hell."
Jamie threw his wine glass into the fire which caused the flames to explode, for emphasis. "Like that." Then he walked calmly out of the room while his grandfather stared at the fire.
"Aye, my grandsire has a great respect for the supernatural, no for anything else, but you should take care the next few days if I'm no with ye."
"Well he didn't seem that frightened of that poor woman when he tossed her out into the corridor."
"Maisri is but a seer, she's not a White Lady, like my wife. But she did know something she wasna telling him."
"Your grandfather really is a brute, isn't he?"
"Aye. A brute that may soon own my ancestral home."
"You can't be seriously thinking about giving him what he wants."
"The Prince will hardly put much stock in my abilities to lead men or wage war if I'm not even able to persuade my own grandsire to support our cause."
"Well, what about Young Simon? What if we persuade him to stand up to his father? Declare his support for the rebellion."
"Aye, then Lovat may send his men if only to protect his heir. But after that scene last night. It will take more time than we have to give the boy the confidence he needs to truly defy his father."
"Perhaps it depends on what we use to boost his confidence."
Laoghaire is helping with the laundry, carrying a basket of wet clothes to hang up to dry. She sniffs the shirt. Claire comes up behind her and asks, "Is that Jamie's shirt?"
"I've done nothing to it."
"I didn't mean to imply that you had."
"I have changed, ye ken. I have repented, and asked God's forgiveness. And it was working. I thought he brought you both here to help me, but it was to test me. In the great hall, Jamie didn't even see me. It was like I didn't exist. If ye will na avenge yourself, you must leave me be."
"Perhaps I could find my way to forgive you. But Jamie will never love you, Laoghaire. But there may be a way to earn his forgiveness. For him to think of you without rancor."
"And why would you want him to do that?"
"Because we need Lord Lovat to send his men and weapons to fight for Prince Charles. We believe he would do this if Young Simon stood up to him and took Jamie's side."
"And what does that have to do with me?"
"Young Simon is infatuated with you. You could use that to help persuade him."
Shaking her head, Laoghaire says, "I'll no sink further into the pit of depravity. I'll not give up my maidenhead for you!"
"No one is asking you to give up anything. Besides, it's not for me. It's for Jamie. A woman has more to offer a man than her body. When a man is in love, he craves his beloved's approval. He wishes to please her, to look heroic in her eyes."
"And if I do whatever it is ye have in mind, ye'll speak to Jamie on my behalf?"
"Yes."
Jamie is talking to Colum while rubbing his stiff left hand. "I canna tell you how I know but I do. Ye must believe me. The only way to survive is to fight, and win! We need the weapons and men to do so. Remaining neutral will be seen as treason by whatever side wins."
"Ye know, you just know. You sound like a mad man. History guides my course in this matter. History! Not wild beliefs and wishful thinking. The other risings, they failed because there was no outside support. And that support does not exist now! If we do not send men to fight, this rebellion will melt away. And when that happens, we will be left alone. As we were in the past. Lord Lovat, he would see that too, if only the baneful prize of Lallybroch was not dangling in front of his eyes. And he would agree to neutrality. Jamie, ye were always headstrong but ye were never reckless of the lives of others. For your sake, and for the sake of all you hold dear, do not make this bargain with this man. Do not trade yer home for a war ye canna win. Will ye promise me that?"
"I promise ye uncle. ... I promise ye, I will do what I must to save those things you and I hold most dear."
Young Simon and Claire are walking down a road. "It's so nice of you to volunteer to show me the chapel Master Lovet."
"I believe it was your idea."
It's so peaceful here. Do you plan to do much when you become laird?"
"I've not given it much thought. My father is still a vigorous man. Some have speculated he's immortal. And as you may have noticed, he doesna have much respect for me."
"My husband confided in me that his father sometimes exposed him to public scorn to make him a better leader of men."
"Oh, Laoghaire! I hope we're not disturbing you." Claire drags Young Simon towards the girl.
"No, milady. Just collecting some mushrooms for the cook."
Turning back to Simon, "I'd like a few private moments in the chapel. Do you mind waiting here for me?" Not waiting for an answer, she darts off.
"Oh, well, if Mistress Laoghaire would not prefer her solitude."
"Oh no, I'd welcome the company. ... It's a bleak day."
"Do ye like mushrooms?"
"Not much, no." (grin, grin, awkwardness) "I like poetry."
"So do I."
Simon takes a stance, extends his left hand out and starts quoting, Parting and Absence Lochaber No More, by Allan Ramsay (1686-1758)
Though hurricanes rise, and rise every wind,
They'll ne'er make a tempest like that in my mind;
Though loudest of thunder on louder waves roar,
That 's naething like leaving my love on the shore.
Laoghaire interrupts him and asks, "Perhaps ye'd like to sit down on the tree."
He comes over and sits down next to her, both of them grinning from ear to ear.
Claire goes into the chapel and sees Maisri lighting candles.
"Maisri, it's Claire Fraser. We met in the corridor."
"Lord Lovat's tennents do not like someone like me in the house of God. This is the only place where my mind goes quiet. I don't know why. They say you are a White Lady."
"Yes, they do say that."
"What brings you into a church then?"
"It was cold outside. I'm glad to see that you're doing all right. Lord Lovat was so rough with you the other day."
"His Lordship is not an easy master. He asks what I see and then beats me when I tell him things that do not please him."
"Does it always come to pass? The things that you see?"
"Mostly, aye. Although sometimes an action can change things. When I still lived in the village I saw Lachlan Gibbon's daughter's man wrapped in seaweed and the eels stirring beheath his shirt. I told Lachlan what I'd seen, and he went straight away and drove a hole in the boy's boat. Lord, there was a strammash! A right to do! But when the great storm came the next week, three men were drowned, and that boy was safe at home still mending his boat."
"What did you see right before Lord Lovat threw you out? I promise, I won't tell him that you told me."
"He was standing there before the fire in his study, but it was daylight. A man stood behind him, still as a tree, his face covered in black. And across his lordship's face fell the shadow of an axe."
"But if you told him, he could change his behavior, perhaps change the outcome."
"Aye, or he might just kill the messenger."
From outside the chapel, Claire hears Laoghaire say, "Mistress Claire, where are ye? Mistress Claire..."
Claire jumps up and goes to the door saying, "I'll be right there." Then goes outside.
"Where's Young Simon?"
"He ran off like a feared wee mouse."
"What did you do?"
"Everything ye said. I flattered him. I told him how much I admired a man who made decisions, who thought for himself. I gave him a keek down the front of my dress."
"Oh, I told you it wasn't about sex. No wonder he ran off."
"Well other than reciting verse, he wasna doing much to hold up his end of the conversation. I tried!"
It's night time and raining. Claire is looking for Jamie calling out his name. He responds "Aye" and she finally finds him in a barn. "I supposed I'd find you in here."
"More and more these days I think I'd prefer to be a beast."
"No luck with Colum then?"
"No, and you, with Young Simon?"
"No. I did find out what Maisri told Lord Lovat though."
"Aye?"
"She saw his death at the hands of an executioner."
"A traitor's death. I dinna suppose she mentioned if the executioner was in the employ of King George or King James?"
"No, I'm afraid not."
"I promised Colum I'd do what I had to to save the Highlanders, and so I must."
"Jamie, it's too much. Let's just go to Prince Charles with the men from Lallybroch."
Shaking his head no, "I canna go to the Prince a failure. It seems I canna get the men from Lovat without giving up my lands, so unless you're planning on declaring yourself a visitor from the future describing what will happen if we dinna fight and win, I dinna see I have much choice." He leaves and she follows him.
Lord Lovat says, "I have had my secretary prepare a neutrality pact between the Frasers of Lovat and the MacKenzies of Leoch. I have also had him prepare a Deed of Sassine for Lallybroch estate, assigning the property to me. Sign it, and you'll have your men for King James. Don't sign it and I'll agree to neutrality with MacKenzie here. Which will it be?"
Column asks, "Ye'll let this boy decide the fate of Clan Lovat? He's not even your recognized heir."
"I have made this decision. The boy is just an obstacle in my way. What will it be, Obstacle?
"Dinna be a fool Jamie."
"I do this to ensure the future of my family, and people."
Lovat looks very pleased with himself and pushes the Deed of Sassine towards Jamie, who starts to sign his name to it. Then all of a sudden there's a loud noise and Claire is walking towards them with an odd look on her face, like she's in a trance or something, staring at Lord Lovat.
"What are you staring at" Lovat asks.
"Claire?"
"I see another vision." Jamie runs to her while Lovat tells him to leave her be.
"Dinna give me orders about my own wife!" She collapses just as he reaches her, and he holds her up. "Claire!"
Lovat demands, "What did she see? What did she see?"
"Stay back!"
Colum's not fooled. "Ach, Lovat. Can ye not see this for the pretense that it is?"
"Pretense? You know that she was tried as a witch by those that dinna understand the difference between black magic and the power of the old ones."
"What did she see?"
"You don't need to answer him Claire."
"She will if she wants to walk out of this room."
"No, it's all right Jamie. ... I saw you...standing in bright sunlight. There was a man behind you. He was wearing a black hood. The shadow of an axe across your face."
"Whose man? Whose executioner? King James, or King George?"
"I don't remember. The ground was covered in white roses."
Jamie adds, "Symbol of the Jacobites."
The Old Fox jumps up and pulls out his knife, running towards Claire yelling, "Witch, I'll cut out your tongue." Young Simon grags his right hand to stop him.
"You thwart me boy? My heir?" Laoghaire is watching Young Simon and he sees her.
"You and MacKenzie are fearful old men. You are wrong, and my cousin is right. It's our duty to stand up for our country, and our kinsmen. I will fight for King James. I'll fight to change the White Lady's vision. Even if you will not."
Old Simon storms back to the desk and says, "The Frasers of Lovat will stand with the MacKenzie's of Leoch. We will remain neutral in the war." And he and Colum both sign the neutrality agreement. To his son he says, "I wish ye luck, my boy. Come MacKenzie, let's drink to our newly formed alliance."
Everyone is getting ready to leave. Colum is next to his coach looking at Jamie and Laoghaire is putting her bag on the back and climing up. Young Simon comes up to Jamie and says, "I'm ready."
"Ye did well Young Simon. I'm proud to be yer kinsman. I'll be proud to fight by your side."
"I'll wait for you outside the gate."
"Aye. (to Claire) So we go to the Prince empty handed."
"At least you were able to save Lallybroch."
"Aye."
Jamie sees Colum looking at him and they both go over. Claire holds the horses while Jamie walks up to his uncle who says, "Go back to yer home, yer family."
"I told ye uncle, I canna do that."
Colum asks Claire, "Can you not convince him to listen to reason and go home?"
"You've known him longer than I have. What do you think?"
"I think it's a blessing his mother dinna live to see what a reckless fool she spawned. Give me your hand." Jamie helps his uncle into his carriage.
"Fair is fair," Jamie says to Column, then turns to Claire.
(Speaking something in Gaelic)
"We must away as well, Claire. We need to be in Kingussie by the end of the week."
"Wait. Before we go there's something I need you to do for me. Say thank you to Laoghaire."
"Thank you? For what? Not trying to have you arrested in the last few days?"
"Please. Do it for me. I'll explain it all later." He walks over to her.
"I, uh I'm told to thank ye. For what, I dinna ken. But thank ye, Laoghaire."
"I hope one day I can also earn your forgiveness, Jamie." He nods and walks away. And under her breath, "And yer love."
Walking back to Claire, Jamie says, "Let's go." Everyone leaves.
As they're traveling down the road a bunch of armed men, some on horseback, are visible beside the road. Jamie signals everyone to stop. They're all looking very worried. Claire asks, "Who are they?"
Young Simon answers, "My father's men." Three are approaching on horseback, one is his father.
"Don't sit there gaping at me you glaiket sumph. Go see to your men!" To Jamie he says, "Turning my lad into a soldier would be a greater feat than beating the British. (LAUGHS) What vision do ye have for me now, White Lady?"
"I don't understand."
"It would seem my grandsire has sent his heir to fight, and the Stuart's will credit Lovat with supporting King James, should they win."
"They canna execute me for treason."
"What about the neutrality agreement?"
"I trust old Colum MacKenzie is right. And that will protect me if the British should win."
Claire asks, "What will you say about your son fighting for the Jacobites?"
"He's his own man, that one. You saw it yourself last night. Persuaded others to follow. I thank ye, White Lady. I couldna have got it all without ye."
Jamie reminds him, "Ye didna get Lallybroch."
"Not yet. Aye. Come on." And he rides away.
"Please tell me I'm nothing like him, Sassenach."
"I'm afraid I have seen a similarly devious turn of mind."
"I might have to rethink our agreement not to lie to one another."
VO: "As we put distance between ourselves and Jamie's loathsome grandfather, my heart lightened. We had Lovat's men now. Jamie would have the Prince's favor, and at least the opportunity to steer the rebellion to victory. Maisri had said we could change the future. Perhaps we already had."
The episode starts off with what looks like a World War II military vehicle splashing through puddles.
Then we see Claire (Caigriona Balfe) and Jamie (Sam Heughan) on horseback with a bunch of men and a few women walking carrying various weapons, sythes and pitch forks.
CLAIR VO: "We left Beaufort Castle 100 strong and traveled toward Crieff to join forces with Murtagh and the Lallybroch Frasers. But our numbers dwindled along the way. Many who resented being ordered by Lord Lovat from their families and farms deserted our ranks. We'd sent young Simon to persuade them to return with a promise of land when the war was over. It gave them something to fight for, to die for. If it went according to plan, all would meet up in Perth to join the Prince's army."
They see Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) who approaches saying, "Pardon me if I forego the wee jig I had planned in honor of your arrival. I woulda been gey pleased to foot it out five days ago."
Jamie says, "Aye, aye. It took us longer than foreseen to come through Crianlarich. Made me long for the days of raiding cattle."
"I dinna think you could talk that old bastard out of a loaf of bread, let alone men. No' much to look at are they?" Murtagh remarked.
Claire explains, "Apparently Lovat kept his best men back at Beauly. So you two have your work cut out for you."
"We need to keep a watch. 30-odd tried to desert near Kingussie. Wee Simon's gone to bring them back into the fold."
Murtagh asks, "Oh, the younger's with us?"
"Aye. No wi' his father's blessing. Lord Lovat remains neutral."
"Yeah, that's the weasle I ken well."
A man approaches them with drinks. "Wee drink to warm ye up."
Fergus (Romann Berrux) sees them and excitedly runs over yelling, "Milady, Milord!" Claire gives him a big hug.
Jamie says, "Ye look fit. Murtagh's been looking after you well then."
"No, no, no, no. It's been horrible! He forced me to mend his socks, and to fetch his meals."
Murtagh defends himself, "Hey, just trying to educate the lad in the finer points of traveling in the Highlands."
Claire breaks this up, hugs Fergus and says, "All right children." They walk off together.
There is some beautiful music and Gaelic singing
It's morning and Claire, smiling broadly, and Jamie emerge from the upper floor of a rustic building and descend the stairway. Claire says, "I'll have a word with the ladies, try and get them to make as many bannocks as possible today."
They come across Murtagh, Angus (Steven Walters) and Rupert (Grant O'Rourke) walking towards them. Angus says, "Mistress Claire, I've washed my mouth out with whisky in preparation for a big buss from you, eh?" He's making a kissing face and pointing to his mouth.
"Good to see some things haven't changed." She walks up to him, grabs his chin to turn it so she can give him a big kiss on his cheek.
Then it's Rupert's turn. "It's been o'er long Claire." She hugs him but he grabs her by the waist and lifts her up.
"Indeed it has, Rupert."
Angus solumnly shakes Jamie's hand. Then Claire asks, "Well, where's Willie?"
Rupert and Angus are looking very sad. Claire states, "Something happened." Jamie comes to put his arm around her bracing for bad news.
Murtagh tells them to tell them.
Rupert speaks first. "The lad ... he went and got himself married. To an Irish lass. Sailed off to America with the bride's family."
Angus' turn, "Ye'll no mention that traitorous bastard's name again."
Claire sets them straight, "You know, marriage could do you all some good." Jamie smiles at her in agreement. But Murtagh, Angus, and Rupert look very disgusted.
Then Dougal (Graham McTavish) approaches saying, "Ye no welcome for your beloved uncle?"
Jamie smiles broadly and walks towards him.
"Ye look well lad, despite the misfortunes ye suffered." Then Dougal walks over to Claire and Jamie, getting the insult, states "I've never felt more fit".
"Ah, and the Lady Broch Tuarach. A vision of true lovliness."
"Well, it wouldn't be Scotland without you, Dougal."
Jamie asks, "Column change his mind then? Send Clan MacKenzie to join the cause?"
"Colum's mind is his own. It's no concern of mine. We are here to pledge our hearts and swords to the glorious cause."
Claire asks, "What, just the three of you?"
"Ye didna questions the lads' strength in numbers when they stormed Wentworth Prison in the very teeth of over 200 Redcoats."
Angus corrects, "400 actually."
Rupert says, "More likely five".
"Oh lad, when I heard you'd joined the Jacobite cause, I was so proud. It was as if my own son was taking his first steps as a man. Now I know you and I have had our differences in the past, but I have been waiting for the day when we would be fighting together on the same side. It is our time, for glory, for Scotland."
Jamie's looking unconfortable, but says, "Then I welcome your heart, and your sword, all of ye. It's sorely needed. Ye can aid me in training the other men."
Dougle says, "It should be a simple enough matter. They've showed their worth just by joining. Their hearts are larger and stronger than 10 Redcoats."
"That may be so, but they're no ready for combat as they stand."
"There's plenty of time to teach that on the march."
"No, they dinna march. They walk, stroll, caper about, but they dinna march. They'll need to learn before they join the Prince's army. They're still just cotters, taxmen, smiths. Most havena even held a weapon much less used one in a fight. Now, this is good ground on which to train upon. So, I've decided to stay here, for a time."
"Your mind's set then?"
"Aye. Tis."
Murtagh says, "Good to see ye lookin' so braw, Dougal."
"All right. We'll make a fine group of Highland soldiers. No time to waste." He, Angus and Rupert walk off.
A while later Murtagh is talking to the men. "James Fraser taught me these drills himself. And believe me, I am going to teach them to you. And you are going to learn them. Now. Form lines. Two. When you hear this (he signals the bagpipers). Two lines, one directly next to the other. Here. Put your toes there. Get in line. Kincaid, move your ass! Do you think the enemy is going to flutter away waiting for you to gather?"
Kincaid (Gregor Firth) asks, "And when do we get proper weapons?"
"First, ye learn where to stand, then ye learn how to move. And if you can manage the particulars of that, we'll put a sword in your hand and teach you to kill the Redcoats. But until then, FORM UP! WHAT ARE YOU LAUGHING AT BASTARD?"
"When you hear this (more bagpipes) you will face LEFT. FACE LEFT. YOUR OWN LEFT! WHAT IS THE MATTER WITH YOU? HAVE YOU GOT SHANK IN YOUR EARS?"
Claire's having a flashback of her military experience with some commander yelling at his troops just like Murtagh is doing.
Later, Fergus is playing shinty with Ross and Kincaid in a field and she has another flashback of seeing soldiers playing baseball.
"Fergus. Fergus." She grabs him and pulls him away with her.
Ross says, "There's no need to get riled Mistress Claire."
Claire to Fergus, "I asked you to get water for Milord, did I not?"
"Yes, but I was just..."
"I don't care. Just come with me."
What follows is a montage of training.
Jamie says, "Remember, these are well trained, disciplined soldiers."
Murtagh has a group he's tring to get to follow him. "Come here. Come here." Slap.
Dougal is also helping with the training. "Scottish broadsword. Aim for the shoulders if ye'r trying to take his head off. Like that.
Jamie says, "Even every highly trained soldier has a weakness..."
The women are also helping to get ready for battle.
Jamie is sitting by a camp fire and Dougal approaches. "The men are coming along nicely. We should push on. Join the Prince with due haste."
Murtagh comes up and mutters under his breath, "Ah, Christ."
Dougal looks miffed. "We must make a show of our allegience."
Murtagh disagrees. "I dunno know who ye're surveying, but if we meet the British now you can count on one of two things: we get butchered in a field or have our neck stretched."
"Jamie, ye have the Prince's ear, no?"
"I ken Charles Stuart well enough."
"Aye, good, because more clans are joining our cause every day, and their leaders are jockying for position in his inner council."
"There are more pressing concerns than worrying about securing a seat at the Prince's table. I'll no send these cotters into battle until they're well trained and disciplined."
Claire walks up to the food tent and sees a man spit out his food in distaste. She flashes back to a similar scene from her time, with two American soldiers complaining about their food. One of them says, "Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ!"
Claire says, "It's not exactly Delmonico steak is it?"
"Ma'am?"
"Well, that's what we think you Yanks have for chow everyday. Giant steaks, baked potatoes browned in butter, tomatoes the size of cricket balls, and vats and vats of chocolate ice cream."
The other soldier says, "Don't I wish."
The Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ (JHRC) soldier says, "We just get K-rations pretending to be real food. We call it 'shit on a shingle' ... sorry ma'am."
"That's quite all right. I'm Claire Randall, by the way," and reaches out to shake his hand.
The JHRC soldier says, "Corporal Caleb Grant (Billy Griffin Jr.) and that's Private Max Lucas (Tyler Collins)." Lucas stretches out to shake her hand too."
"Nice to meet you." She notices an AIRBORNE patch on Grant's shirt. "Airborne. Separated from your unit?"
Lucas answers her, "Yes, ma'am. Ever since D-Day."
"There's quite a lot of that going around. Where are you both from?"
Private Lucas says he's from "Texarkana, Arkansas," and Corporal Grant says he's from "Yonkers, New York".
"What about you?"
"Well, I'm from ... well, all over really. I'm not sure where home is, to be honest. Anywhere but here, that's for sure."
Lucas says, "Ma'am, can I ask you a question? What kind of food is this trying to be?" He holds up his fork questioningly.
"Well, that, Private Lucas, is trying to be black pudding, though it's what you'd probably call sausage."
Grant asks, "Then what do you call what we call pudding?"
"Pudding. 'The British and the Americans, two people separated by a common language'."
Lucas recognizes the quote, "George Bernard Shaw."
"That's right."
"My Mama's Irish. She said he's one of the great Irish writers of all time. Pop says he's a Communist."
Later Claire is sitting before a fire in a hearth hanging her head down. Jamie walks in and ask, "You all right lass? You've been very quiet these past few days."
"I'm fine. It's just so much to do, to prepare for."
"Aye." Jamie walks over to her and kisses the top of her head. He takes off his 'Je Suis Pres' pin and she picks it up, staring at it. She flashes back to the AIRBORNE pin on Grant's shirt.
"Je suis prest. I am ready."
"I'm sorry."
"Sorry?"
"Sorry for bringing you here. ... I want you to know, whatever happens, we're gonna get through this. I'll make sure you're safe."
"I'm fine, Jamie. Really."
It's morning and Murtagh is drilling the troops. "About face. TOGETHER. By the left! Quick, march. ... Halt. Halt. About face! Together you clots, together! By the left, Quick, march!"
Jamie tells them to "Halt! Now. Foolishness and games. It's what you're thinkin'. No reason to, to learn to ponce and strut about like the Redcoats. (Giggles) We're Scotsmen! We're brave. We're strong. We have God on our side, so why should we waste time with all this sheit! Aye. I was like minded. Then I went to France and I became a soldier. I saw what a modern, well-trained army can do. Oh, it's a pretty sight at first. See them all marching together in the neat rows and columns, music playing, banners waving. So pretty, ye want to smile. My lot too, the first day. ... Then they fire the first volley. First you see the flash of metal in the sun. Together, as one, an entire line of men raise their muskets, aim, and let loose. The musket balls come tearing across the field like a sheet of metal rain, cutting down men left and right without mercy. The sound of gun fire, rolling thunder across the hills. By the time the last of it fades, the second volley is already on it's way. I realized it takes more than courage to beat an army like that. It takes discipline. It takes a well-trained soldier. An army of soldiers. Now if we have the discipline to stand together, to march together, to fight together, then by God, I ken we WILL win, together! %gaelic%"
All of a sudden five kilted, shirtless, mud-smeared men come running at them with swords, yelling. It's Dougal and his men. Jamie's men start to run away and he and Murtagh are telling to stand, hold.
Dougal grabs their attention by yelling, "That's how you beat the Readcoats, Hey. With a Highland charge! Ye take them by surprise. And ye put terror in their hearts."
Murtagh yells, "Get back in line, back in line now!"
Angus yells, "With only five of us!"
Rupert adds, "Aye, imagine a thousand of us, screaming, descending on the pretty Redcoats all lined up in a row." (men chuckling)
Angus says, "They'll run like chickens."
Jamie, frowning, says, "We'd need surprise for the charge to work. I doubt we'll be that lucky. ... Dismissed, all of ye."
Murtagh yells, "DISMISSED! MOVE IT! Bloody sheep."
"A word with ye, uncle."
"Listen lad, I ken ye're tryin' to do what ye think is best. But I was teaching men to fight while ye were still suckin' on ye'r mother's teit. God rest her. So, I think I know a wee bit more about this than ye do."
"No, no ye don't. I ken what these men will face. And I know how to prepare them for it. And you don't. These are my men, my clan. They'll answer to me and noone else."
"What exactly is it ye're trying to say, lad?"
"I've been tolerant with ye before now, because I respect ye, because ye're my uncle. But if you choose to fight with Clan Fraser, then ye'll respect my orders, without objection. If ye canna abide by these terms, then take yer men and be on yer way."
Dougle looks almost like he's being strangled, then says, "As ye say," and walks off.
Claire is adding something to a pot hanging above a fire. Dougal walks up to her and sits down on a stool. "I've been giving some thought to Jamie's situation. He's struggling. Needs help. But you know Jamie. He's too proud to ask. What if you spoke to him, made him realize that I can help if only he'll let me."
"Why would I do that?"
"Because of our agreement, the one we made in the cave at Glen Rowen Cross. I'll wager ye never told him about that, did ye? About my generous offer to ye, to look after ye, as ye'r husband, and ye'r promise to me, to be my bride if he died."
"My husband and I share EVERYTHING. He knows about your OFFER, and he knows why I was forced to make the decision I did."
"And he took no issue with it?"
"None."
"Well, he is a better man than I."
"Truer words have never been spoken."
"I can see that ye still bear a grudge."
"Let's get one thing clear, Dougal MacKenzie. If I ever thought of you, then I might hold a grudge for all the things that you've done to me. But I don't. And why? Because of your affliction. Your inability to be selfless. Because you suffer from narcissism. If you don't know what that is, then let me tell you. The term comes from Greek mythology. Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water, and died rather than pull himself away to eat. Your ego, your self-gratification drive your desires. You want King James restored to the throne, but not for Scotland, for your own selfishness. So please stop trying to convince everyone of your patriotism. It's tedious. I'm not sure you'll grasp the meaning of this either, but I'll try my damnedest. Fuck yourself!"
"Well, all right then, Claire. Perhaps ye're right about me. I do, I do love my reflection, but make no mistake lass, I love Scotland more. And I would give everything, EVERYTHING I have, or ever will have, including my life, to see a Stuart back on the throne."
More troop training ensues. Murtagh says, "I am starting to feel proud! ... Fire! Reload! ... They canna seem to grasp how to load properly."
Jamie says, "Aye, a British trooper can get off three shots in a minute. We must teach 'em to be better. Go again! Have ye noticed Claire's been out of sorts lately? One day she seems fine, in good spirits, and the next there's barely any life in her. I canna figure it out."
"I can see she's no bein' herself. Claire doesna usually beat around the bush. She speaks her mind whether ye want to hear it or not."
"I asked. She claims she's 'fine'."
"It's gonna take a bit more than askin' to pry it out of her."
Back to work. Jamie goes one way, "Come on you two" ... Murtagh continues with his men, "Take aim! Fire!"
Angus is examining his mud-caked foot. Rupert comments, "Got something growing between yer toes there."
"Nay, just everyday filth."
Claire notices this conversation and comes over. She grabs Angus' foot, looking it over. "This is unacceptable. You could easily get trenchfoot. If you intend to use these feet to march then you need to take better care of them."
"Well, I'll bear it."
"Bear it? Trenchfoot can lead to gangrene, which can lead to amputation. I've seen it happen. Are you completely idiotic? Is that what you want? That's a rhetorical question. ... Take off your other boot! TAKE IT OFF!"
"Whoa, now come on it's just (sniffing his sock and laughing)..."
Claire flashes back to teaching a class to soldiers in her time about properly caring for their feet. "And so, in summation, you're to dry your boots, don't go to sleep in your socks, if your feet begin to swell, then coat them in foot powder and let them air dry. Move your legs, wiggle your toes, anything to get the blood flowing. Are you listening?"
She snaps back to Angus laughing and Rupert looking confused by her, then she snaps, "Did you hear what I fucking said?" She catches herself and walks out with Angus yelling after her, "I heard ye!"
Outside she's looking unsettled, hearing the sounds of combat training, remembering combat from her time as a field nurse.
Rupert, Angus, Murtagh and some other men are sitting around a fire drinking. Rupert is telling a story, "So she says to me, 'Oh, ye'll be expecting me to open me legs.' I says, 'No, I'll just kick you on the pot like everyone else.'"
Dougal approaches them with some men in tow. "Easy lads, it's just a pack of new recruits."
Jamie asks, "How do ten men just walk into the camp without so much as a challenge from the sentries?"
Dougle answers, "I just smiled and waved and they let me pass."
"Who's on watch?" Jamie asks, and Murtagh answers, "Ross and Kincaid."
"Bring them to me. Post new guards in their place."
Dougal says, "Jamie, did you no hear? I brought volunteers for our cause."
"Volunteers? Here of your own free will, are ye? ... Prepared to bleed, are ye? Prepared to leave your families and your homes for months, maybe years. This isna a war where ye risk no more than ye'r lives in battle. No, no this is treason. If we fail, then all those who support the Stuart are likely to end up on the scaffold."
Dougle says, "They're true Scots, every man, prepared to fight and die for their true king."
"I much prefer that they fight and live for their king. I'm James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Frazer. I command this army. If ye do not wish to be here, then it is my order that you leave here and return to yer homes. None will think less of ye and no harm will follow. (all of the new men leave) The rest of you are dismissed."
Ruppert mumbles under his breath, "Oh the rest of us he says...", but they all walk out leaving just Dougal looking angry.
"I thought ye agreed to follow orders."
"Hum, when did ye order me not to recruit new men? We must conscript as we travel. We need every able-bodied man in Scotland if we are to win this war."
"I'll not reave another clan's men. I'll not force a man to risk dying for something he doesna believe in."
"You and I can make them believe."
"No, we cannot. Half of Lovat's men already deserted at the first opportunity. A man that fights for his own beliefs is worth ten that are forced to fight for someone else's."
"What fine words. Ye know, all I hear is talk, and talk, and more talk about fighting, and war, and being a soldier. But I don't see any action."
"That's because they're no ready for action. They need more training."
"Oh, what a braw job ye're doing of that. I just led 10 armed men into your camp."
"True, ye did. And it'll no happen again."
"And what's to prevent it?"
"You are. You and yer men are now in charge of sentry duty for the entire encampment. And that IS an order."
"Done."
"Get in there. Go on then, get in there." Murtagh led Ross and Kincaid to Jamie.
"You put the entire encampment in jeopardy."
"But we need more men."
"And ye'll be punished for your carelessness in the morning. Until then, ye're relieved of your duty and under arrest. Post a guard over them for the night."
The next morning Jamie addresses all of the men. "I canna abide carelessness. Ross and Kincaid were neglect in their duties allowing 10 strangers into the camp last night. For that they will receive 6 lashes apiece. Murtagh..."
Ross walks up, takes off his shirt, and bends over a wheel and takes his punishment, grunting with each stroke. Claire looks very uncomfortable and walks away.
Later, Claire is walking through the encampment carrying a basket. Muskets are being fired and she's flinching with each shot. Finally she drops the basket and walks fast for cover behind a cart full of hay. She starts having a flashback...
She's in a jeep with a driver and the two Americans she met in the mess hall. "Appreciate you letting us hitch a ride, Ma'am." It's Corporal Grant. Private Lucas is sitting next to him on the back seat.
Claire says, "I just hope you find the rest of your unit. The food at our field hospital makes that chow hall look like a banquet."
They are hit with fire and there's a loud explosion. Claire and Grant are thrown from the jeep, and Lucas is a ways away yelling, "Please O' Lord, help me. Help me!"
Claire rolls over, "Corporal?" He motions to be quiet.
"Help me! Help me!" sobbing.
"Where's Private Lucas?"
"Other side of the road somewhere." A German vehicle approaches.
"But we just can't leave him there."
"I know. But they'll see us as soon as the Kraut cross the road."
"Then I'll go. I'm a woman and they won't be able to stop me."
"You won't get five yards!"
In the distance, "Oh God, help me!"
"I can see the Krauts on the left. I can circle around to the right. See if I can find a way across. Stay put! I'll be back for you."
"OK." He climbs out of the ditch they were in, starts running, is spotted by the Germans, and shot.
There was another loud explosion and you can hear Private Lucas sobbing, "Oh please! Mama!"
Claire is hunkered down with her hands over her ears. "Shut up!"
"Mama!" and another loud shot.
Claire is still laying in the same position the next morning when some Americans approach her. "Ma'am, you OK?" Another soldier approaches and asks, "What the hell are you doing down here all alone? You OK? Ma'am..."
"Mo nighean donn? Claire!" It's Jamie, and Claire is laying on the grass with her hands over her ears, sobbing. Clearly she has PTSD. He wraps her in his arms comforting her.
Later, "There's nothing ye could ha done."
"I should have tried to get him."
"If you had, you would be dead. Just like the soldier, the Corporal."
"I know that, because I told myself the same thing right after it happened. Then I just closed the door on that night. Walked away, and I haven't looked back ever since. Until now. Now I look at Ross and Kincaid, and all the others, being turned into soldiers, being trained. Putting up a brave front. All I can hear is Max Lucas crying out for his mother in the dead of night. And for two years I've tried to stop this war from coming. And now that it's here, I'm not sure I'm ready to go to war again."
"Ye don't have to. Ye've fought your war. We'll fight this one without you. I'll have Ross and Fergus take ye home to Lallybroch."
"No!"
"Claire!"
"I can't do that either. Listen to me. If I, if I go back it will just be like lying in that ditch again. Helpless, and powerless to move, like a Dragonfly in Amber. Except this time it will be worse. Because I'll know that the people out there dying alone are people I know. People I love. I can't do that Jamie. I won't lie in that ditch again. I can't be helpless and alone ever again. Do you hear me?"
"I hear ye. I promise, whatever happens, ye'll never be alone again."
"I'm going to hold you to that James Fraser."
"Ye have my word, Claire Fraser."
He kisses her tenderly on the forehead, and then her lips.
Jamie is relieving himself and is attacked from behind by a young boy with a knife. Jamie wrestles the knife from him and breaks his arm in the process. The lad groans in pain. Jamie drags him inside and up against the wall, holding the knife in front of his eyes.
Murtagh observes, "He's just a bairn."
The boy corrects, "I'm sixteen."
"Sixteen or sixty, he just made a very credible attempt at cutting my throat." Jamie closes the knife and tosses it on the table.
Murtagh interrogates him. "Who are ye laddie, and why are ye creeping around at night?" He sees a note the boy's carrying, "Addressed to a British officer. He's a spy."
"I'm no spy! I saw the light of your fires, and when I came to investigate, I recognized you as Red Jamie, the unprincipled and traitorous rebel!"
"Not a spy, but conveying with a British officer. Who do you march with?"
He drags him over by the fire and notices him clutching his broken arm.
Huh, is your arm broken? I thought I heard something snap." He grabs his arm and the boy yells. "I'm quite prepared to die."
"Is that so? Well, I'm afraid I'm not prepared to kill ye. Just yet." He pulls out HIS knife and puts the tip in the fire.
"Who do you march with. I want their number. And direction of travel." He pulls the knife out and blows on it.
"There's nothing you can do that will make me talk." Jamie holds the hot knife up close to his face.
Claire jumps in yelling, "Scotish barbarian! Leave him alone you, you sadist. I resisted your advances earlier, but if you let the boy go free, then I will surrender myself to you. You pig!"
Jamie is catching on. "You may be indifferent to your own welfare, but perhaps you have some concern for this English lady's honor." Jamie grabs Claire in a bear hug.
"Let her go!"
"I could, or I could ravish her right before your eyes!" He's hiking her skirts up. "And then, and then give her to my men to do with what they will." He bites her neck and she kicks him in the groin." They're both struggling making a good show of it.
"All right! Release the lady and I'll tell you whatever you wish!"
"Good. Hold her." He kisses her lips savagely and she pulls her mouth away. "Til the boy answers my questions."
"My name is William Grey, second son to Vicount Melton (Oscar Kennedy)."
Murtagh asks, "And what of the troops ye're with?"
"Two hundred infantry traveling to Dunbar to join General Cope's army. And I'll warn you. We have heavy armament. Sixteen carriage mounted cannon, mortars and muskets, in the company of 30 cavalry."
"I'm much obliged for the warning. Where are these men you speak of presently?"
William hesitates, so Claire starts struggling and it works.
"In camps some three miles to the west."
"Take this man in the direction he says the camp lies. If the information he gave us proves true, tie him to a tree one mile from the camp. His friends will find him there, tomorrow. If what he told us is not true, then cut his throat."
Ross says, "Gladly."
Jamie holds the boy's knife up to William Grey's face, says, "I give you yer life," closes it, and sticks it in his belt, then says, "I hope you use it well."
Ross and Kincaid start to lead him away, but he turns and says, "I owe you my life. I should greatly prefer not to, but since you've forced the gift upon me, I must regard it as a debt of honor. I should hope to discharge that debt in the future, and once it is discharged, I will kill you."
"Then I must hope, sir, that we do not meet again." Jamie bows to him.
"A Grey does not forget an obligation, sir." Kincaid and Ross lead him out.
Outside, Murtagh asks, "Who was on watch?"
Dougal admits, "My men," and steps forward.
"I canna let the guilty go unpunished. Dougal's men let the boy get through their lines. We canna continue with this carelessness! Not from anyone."
Dougal takes off his hat and hands it to Rupert, and starts to take off his jacket to take his punishment. But Jamie surprises him, "That includes me."
Now Jamie is taking off his stock, jacket, vest and shirt. "What are you doin' lad?"
"It was our unshielded fires that drew the lad to us."
"Jamie..."
"Murtagh, if ye'll oblige me."
"Six lashes for our unshielded fires. A dozen more for my carelessness. After that, we'll take care of those British troops Master Grey so kindly warned us about."
He turns his back to the group and Murtagh obliges him with his belt.
Later, Jamie is sitting down with some of his men, all blackening their faces. Dougal approaches with Angus and Rupert, clearly thinking they're part of the raid. "What are ye plannin?"
"To slip into the British camp and see what trouble we can make."
"A braw idea."
"Not you. Ye'll remain here. Sentry duity. We still have a camp to protect."
Flabergasted, "I stay behind, like some wretched..."
"Like some wretched soldier that's been given an order by his commander. Aye. That's exactly what ye'll do."
"Aye, then that's what I'll do. Good luck to ye." He, Angus and Ruppert leave.
At the British camp, the Highlanders sneak in, quietly take out some guards, and pry the cotter pins out of the wagon wheels. Then they remove the wheels, pile them up and burn them, all under the Redcoats' noses.
Jamie charges into his and Claire's bedroom and says, "Awake are ye?"
Claire confirms, "I am now. How's your back?"
"Ah, nae bother," then he tosses all of the wagon wheel pins on the bed.
"What are these?"
Grinning wildly, he climbs on the bed and tells her, "Trophies of war."
She sees his blackened face and says, "Christ Jamie."
"Dinna have time to wash," and then he kisses her sweetly.
"Where have you been?"
"Commando raid. Commando? Is that the right word?"
"Yes.... You went to the British camp! Did yo go by yourself?"
"No, couldna leave my men out of all the fun, could I? We had a very profitable night. Cotter pins from the cannon carriages. Couldna take the cannon, but they'll no go far, with no wheels."
"Couldn't they fashion another cotter pin from something else?"
"Aye, they could. But the hell of a lot of good it will do them if they canna find wheels to put them in. (he kisses her) Our success tonight was because of your selflessness Claire. You led the lad to confess his camp's location. It will save lives! Because the hell of a lot of good sixteen gallopers will do General Cope stuck out in the woods."
He kisses her again passionately, pushing her down on the bed."
"You should get dressed."
"That's not what I expected you to say."
Kissing some more, "As much as I want ye Sassenach, we best be off. The British camp will be waking soon." He reluctantly climbs off the bed and leaves.
Jamie and Claire are mounted leading the men. Fergus is with them too. Beautiful music is playing, and we see they're approaching another encampment. Jamie halts the procession and calls "Dougal MacKenzie".
Dougal rides up. Jamie tells him, "Do the honor, ride ahead and announce our presence to His Royal Highness, Prince Charles Edward Stuart."
Dougal is smiling broadly. "As ye say."
Claire and Jamie are looking at each other meaningfully. "No turning back, Sassenach."
"I should say not. Je suis prest!"
Claire (Caitriona Balfe) comes across a dead and rotting Highlander complete with maggots and bugs coming out of crevices. I guess this is to remind us of how ugly war is.
CLAIRE VO: "How many men had I seen killed in war? This Highlander who had run afoul of a redcoat patrol was only the latest one. The rebellion Jamie and I had labored so hard to prevent was upon us. Our only hope was that somehow we could change the outcome. I feared in my heart that history would not be rewritten. That no matter how many battles we might win, victory would remain forever out of reach.
Jamie (Sam Heughan) is impatient. "Claire, how long do you need to take a simple pish?"
"I'll be right there."
CLAIRE VO: How many men had I seen killed in war? Far, far too many."
Claire picks up the dead man's weapon.
Quartermaster John O'Sullivan (Gerard Horan) points out, "There, sir. Right there is your enemy. Yet we do nothing but sit here and twiddle our thumbs."
Prince Charles Stuart (Andrew Gower) asks, "And what would you have the Lord General do, John? Pardon me, Quartermaster O'Sullivan."
John says, "Well, attack, damn it. Pardon me, Your Highness, but--but for the life of me, I cannot understand why General Murray insists we waste our time in dilly-dally."
Lord General George Murray (Julian Wadham) counters, "I rushed the army here to ensure our possession of the high ground. And now you wish us to abandon such a strong defensive position and attack the enemy in force?"
The Quartermaster confirms, "Indeed I do, sir. Time, sir. Time is of the essence. We must not tarry, Your Majesty. We must strike and strike hard."
Jamie jumps in, "May I remind the Quartermaster any attacking force will have to cross here, through Tranent Meadows. Though "meadow" is a fancy name for the bog that lies between us and the enemy."
The Quartermaster scoffs. "Since when did a Scotsman shy away from a bit of mud, huh? Especially when there's an enemy waiting on the other side."
Jamie counters, "Since when does an Irish-born officer dismiss the dangers of boggy ground to an infantry attack?"
The Lord General is thankful to have Jamie's support. "Well, thank God. A sane voice, at last. Can you imagine, Sire? Your army wallowing helplessly while under a withering volley from the British Brown Bess musket? A weapon deadly at 50 yards and accurate up to 100."
Jamie adds, "Cavalry could prove useful to our needs. Both to test the ground and to report on the enemy position."
Andrew MacDonald (Jim Sweeney) agrees. "Aye, a braw squad of dragoons could mean the difference between victory and defeat."
The Quartermaster injects, "Let us not speak of defeat or of cavalry we do not have. And as for the Lord General, may I remind him that he would be remaining behind the lines, and therefore need not be concerned about British marksmanship."
The Lord General is enraged. "Damn my liver! Whta are you implying, sir?"
"I imply nothing sir. I'm merely grateful that we are dependent upon the bravery of our warriors... who are not afraid to face shot or shell to pursue a glorious victory for our prince and for our king."
"MARK ME, now it is but weeks gone since we took the cities of Perth and Edinburgh without firing a single shot. And let us not forget, they welcomed me with open arms."
Jamie says, "Aye, but on both occasions we possessed the element of surprise, Your Royal Highness. General Cope wasna expecting us. His troops fled."
The Lord General adds, "And that won't happen again, Sir."
Charles proposes, "Perhaps if I were to arrange a meeting with the General? Offer him generous terms of surrender. Give him my word his men will be allowed to marh back to England unmolested. I am sure he has no more desire to shed English blood than I have. We are all brothers after all."
All of the men look like he's said something utterly foolish.
The Quartermaster says, "Even as a young lad you had the kindest of hearts, Sir. But I fear the time for talk is done. We sailed from France to fight a war. Let us fight... and be done with it."
The Lord General affirms, "I will not risk destroying our army by ordering it to cross potentially lethal ground. Is that clear, sir? I will not allow it."
The Quartermaster proposes, "Then resign your commission and let the prince find himself a general with a firmer backbone!"
"You pompous toe-rag!"
Andrew MacDonald interrupts the argument. "While you two exchange insults, what do I tell Clan MacDonald?"
Jamie answers him. "Tell your men to await further orders. Which may be some time."
The Lord General storms out of the room and the other men follow him outside.
Prince Charles comes up behind Jamie and asks, "Why must the Scots be such intractable people?"
"Aye, we can be pig-headed on occasion. On many an occasion. As can the Irish, I fear."
"Our cause must succeed, James. I promised my father, and I have promised God. MARK ME. Your noble wife will be among those providing medical succor for those poor souls in need of such come the cannon's roar?"
"Aye, she's helping to set up a field hospital even as we speak, Your Royal Highness."
"Be so kind to tell her the prince asks that British casualties be tended to before the Jacobite wounded. The British are my father's subjects also, and I will have them well cared for. They must be made to realize the Scots wage war upon them with the greatest of reluctance. They are our enemies now, but one day soon they will be our friends again."
"I'm afraid the British have never been a friend to the Scots. But as your friend, I would advise you not to speak of such things within earshot of the men. They would not appreciate such sentiment. Nor do I believe would my wife follow such an order."
"From her prince, perhaps not. But surely Lady Broch Tuarach would prove obedient to an edict from her lord and master."
Jamie makes a face like, "Yeah right..." but says, "Aye" as he kisses the prince's outstretched hand.
We see the edge of the Jacobite camp with their flag waving. In the distance is the British camp. Between is Tranent Meadows, the bog they had been discussing.
Dougal (Graham McTavish) is trying to sleep on his pallet on the ground. Rupert (Grant O'Rourke), Angus (Stephen Walters), Kincaid (Gregor Firth), Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) and Ross (Scott Kyle) are sitting down around a large caldron with a fire underneath it. The men are all looking dour. Angus has a mouth full of ale and squirts it at Kincaid, trying to lighten the mood. Rupert laughs. Angus giggles, takes another mouthful and does it again.
Kincaid yells out, "Enough!"
Angus says, "Enough, ye say?"
Rupert confirms, "That's what he said, all right. I heard it with these very ears."
Ross reasons, "The ale ye waste now is ale ye'll probably we wanting later. Quench the thirst of battle."
Angus says, "The thirst of battle, ye say? What would ye two cotters ken of battle, eh?"
Kincaid jumps in, "Cotters we may be, but we're here, same as you. For gore and glory."
Rupert asks, "Gore and glory, is it? There's no pigs ye're slaughtering here, but men. And they'll be looking to do the same to you."
Ross says, "We know our task, and we'll do what needs doing to return the king across the water."
Shaking his finger, Angus states, "I bet ye Lallybroch tumshies will turn arse and run at first blast of cannon fire."
Kincaid takes issue with this, "Ye take that back, ye buggering wee shite!"
Angus drags his dirk and puts it to Kincaid's neck, "Hey, ye fancy a doing? Come on, I'll open ye from yer belly to yer bone!"
Murtagh has had enough. "Put that blade down or I'll ram it up yer arse until ye taste it."
Angus waves his blade at Murtagh. "Ye try it, ye bushy-faced whoreson!"
"For the love of Christ, how can a man nap with all this blathering?"
Jamie comes up and asks, "Is that a dirk I see in yer hand? Angus. See yer getting on as well as our commanders."
Murtagh wants to know, "Have we orders, Jamie?"
"No. Nor are we likely to while the general and O'Sullivan remain hopping mad at each other."
Angus observes, "It sounds like someone in the front ranks could do with a good arse kicking, eh?"
Jamie says, "If only that was all was needed. What is required is a reconnaissance of the marshland that sits between us and the British camp. Discover if the ground is solid enough for our army to cross."
Kincaid asks Jamie, "So the plan is for us to attack?"
"If the Quartermaster has his way. Though I'm of a mind it's the better part of valor to force the British to come to us. But not even O'Sullivan will countenance an attack until the question of the ground is solved. To undertake such a mission under the very guns of our enemies would be naught but suicide. So, eat yer fill and rest up. Save the whisky for when we have cause to celebrate."
Jamie taps Dougal on the arm and says, "Dougal, a word." Jamie brings Dougal to look out over the marsh. "It would be an easy thing to have someone ride out to take a measure of the marshland?"
"And get a musket ball between the eyes for their trouble."
"Not if he's prudent. And lucky. There's no other way about it. If the ground can support a man on horseback, it can support infantry."
"And, uh, is it yerself ye're nominating? 'Cause if ye survive such foolishness, the prince would have yer head for endangering the life of one of his most trusted aides."
"Hmm. Aye. He would not be best pleased."
"No. Still and all, someone has to risk the doing."
"And all I need to do is stay out of range of their guns," Dougal observes.
"125 yards should do it."
"I was thinking more 105.
The redcoats will only be too happy to crack away at a living, breathing target."
"Oh, aye, it's a gamble, but it's worth the risk. Besides, I'd like to prove my mettle to the prince and Lord Murray and the rest of these jackanapes."
"So then, 125 yards?"
"Or thereabouts."
Dougal is mounted on his grey horse and they head into the bog. All the Highlanders are interested and gather around to see what happens. Dougal's horse starts to get stuck in the mud and the British are taking interest too.
British soldiers say, "Here, look. All right, men. Come on, then to ranks. Load." and start to line up with their guns. We see a specific British soldier approaching with his gun being raised (Magnus Sinding).
Prince Charles comes up to see what's happening and observes, "Extraordinary fellow."
Angus informs him, "That's Dougal MacKenzie. Personal friend of mine. You are?"
"I'm your prince, Charles Edward Stuart."
"Are ye really? Ye hear that? I'm talking to the prince."
Rupert handles things a little more diplomatically, "An honor to make yer acquaintance, Your Royal Highness." Rupert bows.
"Quite so." Rupert gestures to Angus to bow too, and he does it ver extravagantly.
Dougal's horse is having some trouble, so he tries to calm him with "Easy, boy." He's really getting stuck now, and the British are ordered to "Fire at will!"
Shots are hitting the mud very close to Dougal and his horse.
"Fire. Come on!"
Dougal dismounts and pulls his horse out of the mud while more shots are hitting all around them. Finally they both get out of the mud, but one shot grazes Dougal's head and knocks off his hat that has a hole through it. He touches his scalp and puts his hat back on. "I think we've learned all we need to know. Quite enough."
Dougale mounts his horse and rides back to the Jacobite camp. The British are making disappointed noises. But the Jacobites all start cheering! The prince is clapping and yells "Surrender" to the British. When they're all back at the camp, the prince, still clapping, yells, "Bravo! Bravo!" Dougal dismounts and is very suprised when the prince charges up and gives him a long energetic hug! "MARK ME, if I had 100 men like you, this war would be over tomorrow."
"Well, I dinna ken about that, Your Royal Highness, but I fear that it's joyless news that I bring back with me."
"Indeed. Gentlemen, there will be no glorious Highland charge through Tranent Meadows."
The Quartermaster states, "Damn me, we can't get to the British, and they can't get to us."
Lord General Murray says, "We should disengage from the enemy under cover of darkness and return to Edinburgh."
The prince asks, "And wait for the British to lay seige to the city? The enemy is here, General, not in Edinburgh. Now, I look to you to break this stalemate or I will be forced to find myself a new general."
Jamie walks up to Dougal and hands him a corked bottle. "Ye're a lucky bastard. Ye should get that looked at."
"Either way, It's just a scratch. And now, I'm off to change my breeks because the hero of the hour has shat his pants." Lots of laughing...
Inside the makeshift hospital Claire is addressing her staff of women. "So, apparently your Doctor MacPherson left Tranent a few days ago. But fortunately, he left his medical bag behind. The instruments in it will prove useful, more useful than the doctor himself probably would have. So, it is up to us to tend to the wounded. And I have no doubt that together we will be able to do it."
Molly Cockburn (Alice McMillan), you're a strong girl. Now, your job is to see to it that the pails and buckets are filled at all times. And use water from the well only."
"Yes, Lady Broch Tuarach."
"There's no time for all of that. "Claire" is fine."
Fergus (Romann Berrux) is making a nusance of himself hitting lots in the fireplace with a stick. Claire addresses him, "Fergus? Please?"
She addresses another woman, "I'm sorry, I've forgotten your name."
"Alice McMurdo (Bridget McCann), Madame."
"Alice, that's right. You are responsible for looking after the honey water."
"Begging your pardon, I don't see what good sweet water's going to do for bullet wounds."
Fergus is puttering about shaking harnesses, and making noise.
Well, for the wounds themselves, nothing. But it will help keep the patient's blood pressure up. Trust me, it's important. It will also help replace any fluids lost and prevent shock. (MORE CLATTERING) And our friend Fergus here, he will be responsible for keeping the kettle fires burning."
Under his breath Fergus mumbles, "Women's work."
"I-I'm sorry. What was that?"
"Nothing, Milady. Leave it to me."
"Thank you."
It's dark outside. Inside, Claire is laying out an assortment of knives and inspecting them. Fergus rushes in excitedly, "Milady! Milady! This gentleman, he wishes to speak to the commander of His Highness' army. Has information of the utmost importance."
"Allina, Alice, a moment please. (THE LADIES WALK OUT) Sir." Claire motions him to sit down.
"I'm Richard Anderson (Alex Hope) of Whitburgh, Madame."
"Lady Broch Tuarach, Claire Fraser."
"Yes, Milady. Ye see, I've lived in these parts all of my life. My father owns the land, so I ken the grounds where the armies are like the back of my hand. There's a way down from the ridge where the Highland troops are. A small, hidden trail that will lead them past the bog at the bottom to catch the English unawares."
"I see."
"If I may speak to a commander, perhaps Lord Murray himself."
"Fergus, do you think you can find your master?"
"Yes, I-I will find him."
"Go now, but be careful. Tell him to come back straightaway to speak with Mr. Anderson."
"Here, you say?" someone says off camera.
"Aye. Or thereabouts. I don't ken much from maps."
Jamie states, "There's no such path marked."
"Marked or no, it's there. As I told Mrs. Fraser, it's a narrow, winding path, hard to spot in daylight, and hopeless to find in the dark. Unless ye ken where to look."
Lord General Murray asks, "And you do?"
"Aye, I do."
Murray observes, "Fortune drops out of the sky and onto our doorstep. Convenient, is it not? If we dare trust this boy."
Jamie asks Richard, "And ye're willing to lead us across the meadows?"
"There's no other way for it. I'm no much for fighting, but I'll get ye from here to there without a misstep."
Claire says, "Thank you, Mr. Anderson. Your help is much appreciated."
Prince Charles states, "I do wish that John was here. I pray I might hear his opinion."
Lord General Murray says, "And I pray the Quartermaster is off somewhere gathering much needed victuals for this army."
Jamie says, "Delay could prove fatal, Your Royal Highness."
Charles nods in agreement and studies the map on the table. "Off we go, gentlemen. Now we shall not return unless we bring victory back with us." Everyone nods in agreement.
Ross and Kincaid are talking about if the worst happens and they fall in battle. Ross starts off with "I'm not saying it's going to happen, but if it does, if I'm to fall in battle, it would ease me greatly to know that you'll watch over Bess and the croft. And I'll do the same for you, if it proves necessary."
Kincaid says, "My Marina and the six bairns? (LAUGHS) I'd wish them on no man.
Listen, there's a wee bit of coin buried south of the pig sty.
She-devil knows where."
"Then it's settled."
"Aye."
Ross says, "What's mine is yours, and yours mine."
Rupert and Angus have overheard.
Angus offers Rupert, "You can have my sword. And my dirk. And my sporran, and all that it contains, eh?"
Rupert asks, "What are you havering about now?"
"Were ye no listening to those two? What's his is his.
What's mine is yours."
Rupert reasons, "What use would I have for a sword that's never been used?"
"Ye think I need a fat man's blade dangling from my hip? Eh? It occurs to me I'll be leaving Scarlet to ye as well."
"Scarlet the whore?"
"Part-time whore. Full-time barmaid."
"She's not yours to give, ye daft bastard."
"Well, I'm saying she is. (LAUGHS) And it's ye I'll be giving her to. Do ye accept?"
"I do not."
"Now shut yer gab before ye bring the devil's own eye upon us."
Murtagh is looking even more sad than usual, and Jamie addresses him, "If ye dinna put that whetstone down, ye'll be grinding that blade to a needle.
May as well get it off yer chest.
Whatever it is."
Murtagh contemplates things. "Ah, It's just. In a raid, every man has a part to play.
You tell yerself that the raid's success or failure is dependent on yer actions.
And if ye're forced to wound a man, kill him even, chances are ye stare into his eyes when doing it.
And if you were to be killed, ye'd die knowing that yer memory would live on within yer clan.
Yer death would have meaning.
But this this is different.
We're but part of a 2,000 strong army.
My death, your death, alone would be meaningless.
500, 1,000 would have to be slain before our deaths take on any meaning."
Jamie says, "That's not a very comforting thought on the eve of battle."
Murtagh explains, "Aye. It weighs on me."
JAMIE|If it's words of comfort ye're looking for, I've none to give.
In Paris, I almost lost my marriage trying to stop all of this from happening.
I failed.
Murtagh corrects him. "We. We failed."
"If there's any solace, I feel much the same way you do."
"Aye. It is."
Back at the make-shift hospital, "Make sure you get some sleep, Sassenach.
Tomorrow will be a a trying day for us all."
"I don't think sleep will be an option for anyone tonight."
They start to kiss, but Fergus interrupts with, "Milady, Milord. I request permission to join you in the fight that is to come."
Claire asks, "And who will keep the hospital fires burning, hmm?"
"I'm sure someone else can handle such work.
I can sneak into the very tent of General Cope.
I will steal his sword.
A general cannot fight without his sword."
"I don't doubt yer capabilities, laddie.
But without you, who will look after the women?"
"Uh, the the same person who keeps the fires lit, I don't know."
"Mm. And what of our Lady Broch Tuarach, huh? There's no one I trust with her safety more than you."
Claire confludes, "Looks like you're going to have to stay and like it.
Is that understood?"
Murtagh calls out, "Jamie. It's time."
Angus yells out, "It's time to send the British army to hell."
Claire observes, "If you ask me, the British don't stand a chance."
Angus motions to Claire that he wants a kiss goodbye. "Angus.
Surely there's another woman you can have kiss you good-bye."
Rupert supplies, "Oh, none that will have him."
Angus is using the sympathy card. "Must I remind you, Mistress, at this time tomorrow I could be laying in a field bleeding to death? I would hate for my last thought to be how you denied me my final request."
Claire observes, "You are shameless." But then she gives him a kiss on the cheek. Claire goes over to Rupert to say good bye.
"I'll not say good-bye to ye, Claire.
No need to, since none of us will be meeting our maker in this place.
When we meet again, it'll be to embrace in victory, share a stiff dram."
Angus touches his cheek and says, "Mistress."
Claire goes over to Murtagh and says, "Watch over Jamie."
"Always.
We will win the day, correct? It is the promise of history."
Claire confirms this. "Yes, we will win this day."
Murtagh looks a bit relieved. "So we shall."
Next, it's time to see Jamie off. They kiss tenderly, then Claire says, "On your way, soldier."
The men leave.
Claire orders the women in the hospital, "Get some rest, all of you.
That's an order." Then she notices that Fergus is gone. "Have any of you seen Fergus?"
Richard Anderson is leading the Jacobites around the bog. It's dark, cold, and misty (about 4 am). He says to Jamie, "I'll be leaving you now if it's all the same to you, General."
Jamie corrects him. "I'm no general, but all of Scotland's in your debt."
Then he orders the General, "General Murray, you see the prince stays here out of harm's way."
The General replies, "I shall indeed."
But Prince Charles puffs himself up importantly and chimes in, "Gentlemen, must I remind you that this is my army? Now I very much desire to lead them into battle. It is my right and my destiny. I carry a sword, and I am trained in its use."
Jamie reasons with him. "I dinna doubt it, but Your Royal Highness must realize this rebellion would never survive your death.
Besides, regaining the throne would never mean as much to King James if the son that made it possible wasna there to share the moment wi' him."
"A touching sentiment, James. MARK ME, I don't believe my father is all that fond of me."
Jamie orders the prince, "Nevertheless, ye shall remain behind the lines with the Quartermaster and the Lord General."
Claire is preparing for what's to come. "I need these strips to be a little wider."
"Yes, Madame."
"That looks good.
Just keep going.
I know what you're all feeling.
I've been there myself.
The fear.
The self-doubt.
But our men are depending on us.
And we will not let them down."
Addressing Molly, "Boil these again. They need to be spotless."
Molly answers, "Right away."
The Jacobites charge the Brittish soldiers. Their sentry (Edward Kingham) was asleep. They're obviously surprised. "Everyone up! Get up!"
Cut to the hospital. Alice is praying, "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord "
Claire orders someone, "Go get more firewood, please. We're going to need lots and lots of hot water."
Alice continues praying, "He is my refuge and my fortress: my God: in Him will I trust."
Cut back to the battle. All hell has broken lose.
Some woman in the background says, "I'm sorry, lad, ye'll have to bite it tight."
Claire notices Ross carrying someone on his shoulder. "Ross? Come with me."
A woman in the background says, "Could someone get some more hot water? More dressings! If ye could rip more dressings!"
Claire examines Kincaid, who's obviously gone. "I'm sorry."
Ross is out of it. "Sorry?"
Claire says, "He's gone."
Alice needs help and calls "Claire."
Claire says apologetically to Ross, "There's nothing more I can do."
Cut back to the battle. The British soldiers are fleeing, but Colonel Gardner (Tom Cox) yells at them, "Stand your ground, you dogs! Don't turn your back on these traitors! Stand your ground!"
Molly sees people approaching the hospital. "The British! The British prisoners are here."
A British soldier comes in and says, "We mean you no harm, Madame. But we do require your assistance."
Claire orders, "Allina, sort these men out by the severity of their wounds. Come with me."
Allina Clerk (Sarah Higgens) takes charge, "You two, over there. Get this man on to a bed."
Claire notices Angus coming in holding Rupert up. "Rupert, he needs you, Mistress."
Claire is busy with a British soldier, but says, "Rupert, I'll be there in a second."
Angus bellows, "Now!"
"Allina, take over here."
"Yes, ma'am."
Angus orders, "Ye must save him, Mistress. I'll no allow that fat bawbag to die on me."
Claire looks inside his shirt and sees a long gaping wound on his belly. "Oh.
Molly, we have to close this wound before an infection sets in.
Get me hot water, a large needle, and thread.
- Now!"
"Right away, mistress."
Rupert says weakly, "Angus, it was Angus."
Claire asks, "Is he blown up? Tell me! What's he talking about?
Angus brushes it off as if nothing, "It's just a cannon blast. It's nothing."
We see more of the battle.
Colonel Gardner yells, "Damn it all! Stand your ground!"
Angus is worried about Rupert, "Tell me true, Mistress, will he live?"
"I wish I knew. But he's strong, and if the wound doesn't fester, then ..."
Directing her gaze to Angus, "Let me see that head of yours. Come on. (GROANS) Your eyes are clear. Any nausea?"
"No. I told ye, I'm fine."
"If it's anything, it's a mild concussion. So you can stay here by Rupert, but no napping; I want you awake."
"Well, I must admit, I'm bone-weary, but I'll be keeping both eyes on this big belly going up and down."
"Well, as long as it does, there's hope."
"Aye."
Jamie comes through the door, sees Claire and says, "The day is ours, Sassenach.
The British are routed. General Cope is in retreat, leaving hundreds of dead and wounded behind. And our losses can't number more than 50 men.
The whole thing took all of 15 minutes. If only we had cavalry, huh, we could have pursued the enemy, captured General Cope, perhaps put an end to the rebellion this very morning."
Claire asks him, "Where's Fergus? I'm sure he went to fight."
"Dinna fash, Sassenach. Take a wee peek outside."
Claire goes outside and finds him looking dazed. "Fergus! Oh, you wretch! What do you mean by sneaking off like that? Should box your ears until your head rattles."
"Milady."
"Are you all right?"
"I I-I killed an English soldier, Milady."
"Don't tell me that."
"I think I killed him. He he fell down. I had a knife. I struck him."
"Oh, God, Fergus. Oh, I'm so sorry. You aren't injured, are you?"
"No. I'm just tired. Very, very tired."
"Come with me. I'll get you some food, somewhere to sleep.
Back on the battlefield. It's obviously over, but there are British soldiers both dead and alive scattered around. Dougal is stabbing any he finds who are still alive. Then he hears a voice weakly call his name. "Dougal MacKenzie."
"Do I know ye?"
"Lieutenant Jeremy Foster" (Tom Brittney). I accompanied you and the lady Claire Beauchamp to the village of Brockton."
"Oh, aye. The only honorable redcoat in Lord Thomas' staff."
"I would be much obliged if you would see me to your infirmary."
"Oh, ye expect me to carry ye to Tranent? I've still got work to do here."
"Is your thirst for slaughter not quenched yet? You've won a great victory today."
"Aye. And I wager there'll be many more to follow."
"A war chief should know better. I tell you this in all candor: you cannot defeat the British army. You've won a battle, but you will never win this war."
"Well No. No! God alone knows the answer to that."
Dougal pulls out his knife and stabs him in the gut saying, "Shush. There, there. And if so I'll look for you in hell."
Ross says to Angus, "We did not run."
Murtagh is looking at Rupert. "Dinna fash yerself, that blubber no doubt protected his innards."
Angus agrees, "Aye. Must have been those third portions he gobbled that did it."
Jamie observes, "Aye, the man could eat. Can eat, I meant to say. Easy now, ally, you look done in."
Angus says, "No, it's just It's been a long night."
Claire notices a big hoof print on the back of Jamie's shirt. "What is that? You look like you got stepped on by a horse."
"Hm, 'cause I was. The British were in such retreat an officer galloped right over me."
Claire picks up a large glass and hands it to Jamie saying, "Here, fill this. You've had 400 weight of horse step on your kidney. I want to see if there's any blood in your urine."
Jamie hands the glass to the British soldier and says, "Here. Hold this while I take aim."
The British soldier puts it down and says, "Six pence says you can't make it from where you stand."
"Ah, I wouldna say it was easy, but for six pence, ow, I'll make the effort."
Murtagh addresses the crowd, "Silence, everyone. Let the man concentrate."
Jamie reaches under his kilt and you can hear that he's doing as Claire ordered. Prince Charles Stuart comes in behind him and clears his throat, then addresses Claire.
"Madame Fraser, your labors on our behalf are much appreciated."
Claire bows and says, "Your Royal Highness. Please be careful of the blood; the floor is slippery."
Prince Charles addresses the group. "I bring you the blessing and gratitude of my father. Your deeds today will be forever remembered. If this victory had been obtained over foreigners, my joy would be complete. But as it is over Englishmen, it brings a damp chill over my heart. I say to you all: I came here in the interests of both our countries, which are, in truth, but one country.
My father will tell me ..."
Dougal barges in, not seeing the prince, and grabs a woman. He's estatic. "Victory is ours! Let the writing of the ballads begin."
Jamie yells, "Dougal!"
"What's this, then? What? Do ye mean to tell me ye been tending this scum as if they were yer own kin?"
Jamie says, "Dougal, the British were taught a lesson this morning they are not soon to forget."
"Like bloody hell. I say we put an end to this shit here"
"No, killing these men willna add to our victory."
"Ye call these bastards 'men'?"
Prince Charles is insensed. "Yes. Men. And they are my father's subjects. And each one of them is your brother. My God, sir, where is your Christian charity? James I wish for you to remove this gentleman from the muster roll immediately. There is no place for such wanton disregard for Englishmen in my army."
Jamie defends his uncle. "Dougal MacKenzie is a true warrior. Your Royal Highness, I ken it well, despite his foolish tongue. If this army is to triumph, we'll need every warrior we can muster."
"Yes, James. And the fastest horse will undoubtedly win the race. Now what good is it when its master is tossed from its saddle in the process? What am I to do with such a blood-thirsty barbarian?"
Jamie has an idea, "We promote him Your Royal Highness. As captain of the newly formed Highlander Dragoons, give him 15 of our best riders and horses. Let them follow the enemy, report on troop movements, harass his supply lines. That way, we use his abilities and Your Royal Highness will never have to lay eyes upon him."
"You have an ingenious mind, James."
The prince says to Dougal, "You are in his debt, rouge. See that he does not come to lament his benevolence."
Dougal says to Jamie, "I thank you, lad. Truly. And I swear that I will not give you cause to regret your generosity. But I know what ye're up to. Ye champion me and ye exile me, both at the same time. That's a plan worthy of my brother Colum."
Dougal says to Angus, "Angus, how's Rupert? Talk to me, man. He's my friend as well."
Dougal notices that Angus is in distress. He's gurgling blood. "Claire! Angus!"
Claire says, "Oh, my God, the cannon blast.
He's been bleeding internally this whole time.
Angus."
Jamie asks, "Is there nothing you can do?"
Claire shakes her head helplessly and we watch Angus die, drowning in his own blood.
Murtagh observes later, "I expected the flavor of victory to taste sweeter."
Jamie agrees. "Aye. War tastes bitter, no matter the outcome."
Later outside, Jamie says, "Well, Claire, turns out you were right about Prestonpans after all."
"I was, wasn't I? That means I'm also right about the disaster awaiting us at Culloden."
Rupert and Ross come through the door singing, grieving their losses:
"Down, down, down, down
Here's a health to the king
And a lasting peace To factions end and wealth increase
Come let us drink while we have breath
For there's no drinking after death
And he that would
This toast deny
Down among the dead men
Down among the dead men
Down, down, down, down
Down among the dead men, let him lie
S02-E11: Vengence is Mine — Directed by Mike Barker; Written by Diana Gabaldon
We hear Claire's voice in Voice Over (VO): "The Jacobite army had moved steadily south during the months since Prestonpans. We had acquired much-needed artillery along the way, taken the English garrison at Carlisle, and successfully occupied Manchester. Despite this, the anticipated sympathetic uprising from the Scottish lowlands and northern England had so far not materialized. We were now emcamped in northern England, awaiting further orders from Prince Charles."
Claire (Caitriona Balfe) is helping out by extracting teeth.
Lord General George Murray (Julian Wadham) says to
Prince Charles (Andrew Gower), "Your Royal Highness, I am aware how painful this must be for you, but the truth is often vexing. We must turn back."
Charles disagrees. "And I say we shall not. Now London lies within our grasp, and all we have to do is reach out and take it. John. This is no time for silence. Speak, man."
The Quartermaster O'Sullivan (Gerard Horan) obliges. "I'm sorry, Your Royal Highness. As you know, the Lord General and myself are seldom of like mind, but I fear in this instance, we speak with one voice."
The prince is furious. "I must say, this is a damned inconvenient time to be conciliatory."
Jamie (Sam Heughan) chimes in, "And I would say the same to you, My Lord General."
The General replies, "Fraser, you have proved to posess a sound military mind, but I will not have my decision challenged by a junior officer. Do I make myself clear, sir?"
Jamie counters, "And what of our prince's decision? Do we not all serve him and his noble cause? Our orders were to march into England and take London. We are but five days from reaching that city, and now you order us to--to turn back and--and to retreat to Scotland?"
Charles says, "Five days, gentlemen. A mere five days is all what stands between us and the completion of God's will."
Murray argues, "It's not the five days that concerns me, but the three British armies that stand between us and London, and we don't bloody know where any of them are."
Jamie reasons, "We're not likely to meet all three at once, My Lord. But if we are shrewd and lucky, we might manage to slip past them all."
Andrew MacDonald (Jim Sweeney) speaks up. "Aye, and if we don't, the British number 30,000 troops, while we have mustered a mere five. One good fight, we'd be too weakened to carry on."
Jamie pushes forward, "That war brings risk should come at no surprise. But if we turn back now, all hope that currently resides in the hearts of our supporters will be filled with doubt and fear."
Claire, still pulling teeth, asks her poor Highlander Patient (Mori Christian), "Is that the one?"
She whimpers and nods her head.
"Good. Ah, this won't take long, I promise."
The poor lady is groaning and everyone around her including Rupert (Grant O'Rourke) and Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) is looking pretty uncomfortable too.
Claire gets a good hold on the tooth and yanks hard. Thankfully it comes out.
"Ah. Ah, oh."
A boy (Zachary Robertson), who is presumably next in line looks on and covers his eyes. His Mother (Joanne Gallagher) has her arms around her son comforting him.
Claire tells her patient, "Good job."
Rupert tells the little boy, "Dinna fash ye're self son. My guid freen Angus, he lost his front teeth when he was no' but a wee lad. A cow kicked 'em straight down his throat. Says he didna shite for a week for fear o' being bitten."
That didn't seem to help much.
Claire asks, "Right, who's next?" The little boy turns away in fear.
Prince Charles states, "I came here. I sailed from France to raise an army, this army. It was God's will that I do so, and since then, His hand has ever been with us. This precious chance of victory, if we spurn His divine gift, there is no guarantee that it will be offered again. So is there no one still willing to stand by your prince, your rightful king, and your God?"
Jamie grabs his sword, walks towards Charles, kneals down next to him, kisses his hand and stands next to him.
"One man. Is that all I can count on? One man. It is intolerable! I'd rather be run through by a British bayonet and have my body buried in an unmarked grave than turn back after we have come this far! But I see now that I am betrayed by both friends and allies. (coming face to face with the Quartermaster) You do what you must, but may God damn you to hell for it. I have nothing more to say.
Claire says to the terrified boy, "It's all right, really. Not everyone has to get a tooth pulled. (addressing Rupert) What did you say to him?"
"Nothing that isn'a true."
Suddenly Prince Charles storms out of a building nearby looking quite upset. His generals and advisors are following him. The Quartermaster O'Sullivan tries to get his attention, "Your Royal Highness, Sir." But the prince ignores him. Everyone's looking kind of confused and upset.
Jamie walks up to Claire and gives her a big hug. "Sorry Sassenach. I must give the prince some credit. Turns out he has a fighting man's heart, even if his generals don't."
Claire reassures him, "It's not your fault. Even if you had talked them into taking London, might not have been able to hold it."
"No. But if we had marched on London, then things would be different to what you said happened in your history books. It would mean that just maybe history could be changed, but now—"
Ross (Scott Kyle) walks up asking, "My Laird. My Laird, is it true? Are we turning back?" Rupert is also interested in hearing the answer.
"Aye. We're going back across the border. Home for winter."
"Are they--are the British after us, then? Are they close?"
"I canna say, Ross, but I'll see you're safe. I promise all of ye. I'll see ye home to Lallybroch. (turning to Claire) And you, Sassenach, I'll see you safe no matter what happens." He kisses her, and they walk away with his arm around her.
It looks like people are starting to get things ready for the journey home. "Here ye go. That's it, then. All right, all right."
Jamie is undressed kneeling next to the bed watching Claire sleep. In Gaelic he says, "God, sheild my beloved, my white dove. And the...child that she may one day bear. Preserve her from violence...and from harm. In this place...and every place. On this night...and on every night." Thunder is rumbling outside. He kisses her on the shoulder and she rouses, turning towards him.
"Hmm. Are you all right?"
Aye. Just wanted to watch you sleep in peace for a bit."
"Hmm. Must be as cold as ice. Get into bed." He lifts the blanket and slides in next to her, spooning. "Hmm."
"What was it that you were saying?"
"Ach, nothing. There's no' much I can say waking without it sounding daft and foolish, Sassenach. I can say things while you sleep. Your dreams will ken the truth of them." They kiss and lock fingers, and she kisses his hand. They snuggle together with her wrapped in his arms.
Dougal (Graham McTavish) charges through a door and climes up a flight of stairs. He's mad! He hands a paper to Jamie and demands, "Read this." Everyone looks alarmed.
Jamie reads, "'My Lord Broch Tuarach, you are hereby ordered to proceed at once with your men to... Inverness'?" "What's this?"
Dougal answers, "Exile is what it is. They want rid of us, of you. O'Sullivan fears that you have too much influence over the prince, and Murray, oh, he did naught to devend you. They want you and me gone and gone now. Bollock-less bastards."
Claire picks up the paper and continues to read, "'Proceed in advance of the army. Arrange winter quarters and obtain provisions.' Well, how? With what money?"
Dougal answers, "Oh, aye, I asked O'Sullivan that myself. He just stuck his big, fat Irish nose in the air and said that 'His Highness's loyal supporters would of course extend credit to his representative.'"
Claire says, "Of course."
Jamie says, "I'll speak to the prince myself."
Dougal shoots that idea down. "He's gone. Murray spirited him away at dawn. The prince also took your horse. He said he knew you wouldn't mind."
Jamie, looking troubled, looks out the window and sees people preparing to leave. "In that case, Sassenach, how long since you visited Inverness?"
The Frasers' Je Suis Prest flag is flying high as Jamie, Claire, Dougal, Rupert, Ross, and their 30 some men head toward Inverness. We see some beautiful scenery, show covered mountains. Eventually they make camp beside a river.
"Hold still." Claire is using tweezers to extract something (a splinter) from Ross' finger. He's wincing. "Ah, ah."
Rupert looks on distainfully. "You big bairn. Angus'd rip that out with his front teeth."
Fergus (Romann Berrux) corrects him. "He didn't have front teeth."
"He'd have used his gums then."
Claire finally gets it out. "Oh, I wish I could give you a tetanus shot."
Ross pipes up, "I'd take a shot at anything just now."
"Whiskey's the best I've got." She pours some on his finger and he groans in pain.
Suddenly they hear a shot and one of them men falls. People yell, "Burghers!" ... "It was over there!" ... "To the south!"
Claire yells "Fergus" and tries to shield him from the gunfire. You can see a line of red coats lined up on a bridge closeby taking aim and shooting at the group.
Jamie yells something in Gaelic, and Dougal yells, "Redcoats. Grab your arms! Grab yoru arms! Scatter to the woods!"
Claire says, "Wait" and tries to grab her medical box but then a shot hits it.
Jamie tells her, "There's no time. Go."
Murtagh gets Fergus on a horse, then mounts in front of him.
Dougal yells, "Rupert! Rupert, you're with me! Go!"
Jamie yells to Dougal, "Meet at the crossroads. Go to the crossroads. Go! (in Gaelic)"
Everyone is scrambling as shots are flying. Some Highlanders are shooting back.
After a while, Jamie says, "I think we've lost them." But it's not that easy. A group of Redcoats are right behind them. One takes aim and hits Rupert in the right eye. Jamie yells, "Rupert!"
A Redcoat soldier yells, "Hurry up, damn you!"
Rupert starts to fall off his horse and Dougal yells, "Hold on. Wait."
The Redcoats are in hot persuit. "Faster!"
Dougal I think is encouraging Rupert to "Ride" but he's dangling precariously off to the side of his horse. He is just about to fall off completely when Dougal says "Bloody" and jumps from his horse over to Rupert's horse at a full gallop. "I'm with ye, lad. I'm with you."
The group of Highlanders get a little bit ahead of the British and Jamie motions for everyone to divert to a tiny side road. He says, "Quick! Quickly" and they all disappear into the thick brush.
The British gallop past, one may yelling, "They went this way! Come on!"
The Highlanders all gallop off in another direction.
Some time later they stop at a stream near a church. Claire is holding Rupert's head in her lap.
Jamie and Murtagh sneak up along a rock wall to get closer to the church. Murtagh asks, "Are you sure it's wise for us to stop?"
"If not, Claire assures me Rupert will die. I haven't seen any redcoats for some time. Wait for my signal." He throws his sword over the wall and goes over, pulling out his dirk and running to the door. He lifts the latch and as he goes inside he's met by Ross who's trying to defend himself. Jamie recognizes him and says something in Gaelic.
Ross apologizes, "Sorry, Laird. I didna ken it was you."
Jamie says, "It's fine. (whistles) Where are your horses?"
"Hidden in the woods beyond. Wallace is standing guard. We waited at the crossroads, but..."
"Aye, it's all right. Make sure ours are hidden as well."
Murtagh and Dougal are helping Rupert to the door. Ross sees his eye and asks, "What happened to him."
Rupert drying answers, "I decided to take a closer look at a musket ball."
Claire follows them inside saying, "Here, Fergus. Take out the whiskey and the bowl. Clear the alter and get him on it. I have to take out the bullet. (to Rupert) It's a miracle it hasn't shifted into your brain."
Rupert says, "It's a miracle they didna shoot me in my good eye."
"Damn it! Where's my knife."
Fergus says, "My lady" and offers her his knife.
Claire demands, "Where did you get that?"
"Milord gave it to me."
Well, give me the whiskey. (to Rupert) Hold still."
Rupert grunts as she digs into his eye looking for the musket ball. Then he screams. Presumably she found it.
A while later, Claire finishes stitching up Rupert's bad eye. "All right. Up you get."
Fergus pick's up the musket ball from the bowl where Claire had just put it.
Rupert says, "Oh, well, I suppose one eye is better than nane."
Claire puts a wad of cloth over Rupert's eye and tells him, "Here, hold this. (he grunts) I'll get you a black eye patch. You'll be like a proper pirate."
"Pirates have eye patches?"
Claire adds, "And peg legs and a parrot."
Rupert looks bewildered, "What in the name of the wee man are you heaving about?"
"Mm, oh, never mind."
Murtagh is looking out one of the windows and calls, "Jamie."
Jamie orders Fergus, "Blow out the candle." Then he says something in Gaelic (probably "quick, quick".
Claire asks, "What is it?"
Jamie and Dougal join Murtagh by the window and Murtagh asks, "What is that?"
They see a light (torch?) approaching, then it splits up into a bunch of torches. Jamie draws his sword.
Then a Redcoat soldier yells, "You in the church! We have your man and your horses! I order you to surrender in the name of His Majesty!"
Rupert asks, "Redcoats?" and Jamie answers, "Aye." Then Rupert says, "Oh, Christ".
A bunch of redcoat soldiers approach the rock wall surrounding the church and go over it. Coming up to the church, someone yells, "Lay down your arms and come out, or we shall fire the roof!"
Dougal proposes, "There's not that many of them. We could stay and fight."
Murtagh counters, "No, they could fire the thatch in seconds. Anyone not picked off running out the door will get burnt to death when the roof caves in."
Jamie concurs, "He's right. We'll never make it."
Rupert draws his dirk, Fergus runs forward, but Rupert shakes his head and tells him, "No."
The British captain yells, "You have two minutes to decide, gentlemen!"
Jamie says, "I'm the one with a price on my head. Mayabe I can bargain with them, give myself up in exchange for your freedom."
Dougal scoffs, "Och, stop being such a hero. If they take ye this time, it's a choice between the hangman and the headsman. Better to stand and fight."
"Everyone here is under my protection. If I can save you all with my surrender.., I'll do it."
Claire interrupts, "Wait. Perhaps there's another way."
Dougal scoffs, "Och."
Jamie says, "No. There isn't, Claire, and we don't have time to--"
Claire yells, "Help! Save me!"
Captain Cleremont (Brendan Patricks) says, "Bloody hell, they've got an Englishwoman in there."
"Save me! I'm--I'm a British subject!"
Jamie grabs her, "Stop! Have you gone mad?"
"Look, say I'm your hostage. They won't fire the place with me inside. Exchange me. Use me to bargain with them. It worked the last time."
Jamie argues, "With a lad. These are soldiers. No. Never."
Captain Cleremont yells, "You in the church, if you have an Englishwoman in there, send her out now!"
Dougal yells at him, "Give up our hostage? Not likely. We'll rather--" Jamie punches him in the face.
Murtagh reasons, "Claire's right. The soldiers will not hurt her. They'll escort her to a place of safety, then let her go."
Jamie yells, "I will not give you up!"
Captain Cleremont yells, "Bring out the woman, or we shall set fire to the thatch and burn you out!"
Claire tells Jamie, "Yes, you will, you stubborn Scot."
"I will not."
"Am I not Lady Broch Tuarach? Are these men not my responsibility too?"
Dougal steps outside and you can hear guns clicking. Captain Cleremont approaches him. "You'll release the Englishwoman, surrender your horses and weapons."
Dougal states, "And you leave with the lady. I need your word of honor."
"Agreed. Your hostage, what is her name?"
"Mistress Beauchamp is her name, a widow we encountered along the way. We took her under our protection."
"Your protection? I know the reputation of Highlanders, sir. I must tell you, if she has been harmed, all agreements are void."
Dougal just smiles at him and steps back inside the church.
"You're a bad liar, Sassenach. Go out there wi' that look on your face, they'll ken something's amiss."
"Well, how am I supposed to look?"
"I dinna ken. Less...guilty."
Fergus has an idea. "Oh, perhaps you should faint, me lady. Mm, den they--they can't ask you question right away."
Dougal says, "Off you go, son. They'll most likely take you to the garrison in Hazelmere. It's the nearest British outpost in the area. They won't want a woman weighing 'em down any more than is absolutely necessary, so come on."
Jamie reassures her, "We'll make our way there, fetch you back."
Claire agrees to the plan. "All right."
Dougal says, "We need to leave."
Jamie picks Claire up and heads toward the door.
Dougal stops him. "Wait. Now, you said it yerself. You're a known man. If they recognize Red Jamie, they won't honor the bargain they've struck, so..."
Claire agrees with Dougal, "He's right. We will find each other. Trust in that." Then she kisses him goodbye.
Dougal is in a hurry, "Come on." He grabs Claire in his arms and she lets her head fall back like she's fainted."
The Highlanders pile up all of their weapons in front of the church.
Lieutenant Barnes (Robert Curtis) taunts, "Behold, the Jacobite army."
Captain Cleremont stops him. "That'll be enough, Lieutenant. Is she all right?"
Dougal answers, "She's fainted from terror." Dougal hands Claire over to Lieutenant Barnes and says to him, "I charge you personally with the lady's protection, sir."
Lieutenant Barnes carries Claire off and Jamie is observing this from the window of the church, not looking particularly happy with the situation.
Captain Cleremont addresses the group, "I urge you all, return to your homes! Resume your lives as peaceful, loyal subjects of the crown!"
Dougal smiles at him, "Oh, aye. I'll be glad to, as soon as the true king is wearing that crown."
Lieutenant Barnes sets Claire down against a tree as she pretends to come to. "Oh, where am I?"
"You're safe, ma'am. You're under our protection now."
"That's a relief."
"Have you been harmed in any way?"
She takes a sip of something in a cup. "No. No, I'm quite all right."
Captain Cleremont approaches them, and the Lieutenent informs him, "The lady says she's unharmed."
"Yes, thank you, Lieutenant. Mount up!"
Lieutenant Barnes helps Claire stand up and she says, "Thank you."
The Highlanders watch as the British ride away with Claire, their horses, and their weapons.
Dougal calls, "Jamie."
Jamie exits the church saying, "I'll look for a horse along the way. You and Murtagh gather the rest of the men. Head north."
Dougal objects, "Ye dinna need two to play shepherd."
Murtagh agrees but has another plan. "He's right. I'm coming with you."
"No. No, you'll both help me best by seeing the men safe. I'll meet ye in Keswick, once I've got Claire back."
Murtagh shows his stubbornness. "You can order them. Ye cannot order me. We'll go and find her together."
Dougal adds, "You'll need help getting her out of the garrison. If it canna be me, Murtagh will do well enough. Godspeed, lad. Bring our lass back safe."
Rupert interrupts them, "Jamie. When you find her, give her a wink for me, aye?"
Claire says in VO: "It didn't take long to lose my sense of direction as we rode through the night. I knew I ought to be leaving some sort of sign for him to follow, but unfortunately, I was short of bread crumbs."
A British offer says, "We'll stop for the night in Crich, Mrs. Beauchamp. The horses have gone as far as they can."
They ride into Crich and a begger on the street recognizes Claire, his eyes get big. It's Jamie's mute friend Hugh Munro (Simon Meacock). Claire dismounts and Hugh watches her. She sees a bunch of broadsheets on the door of the inn, and front and center is a picture of Jamie. Can't read the details. But Hugh Munro watches her enter the place with her British escort.
Inside, someone orders, "Mugs of beer all around, and your lady too. Hey, we'll need food as well. Here you go, ma'am." Someone hands her a mug.
"Thank you."
Lieutenant Barnes approaches Captain Cleremont with a letter saying, "A dispatch has just arrived for you."
"Lieutenant."
Another redcoat says to Claire suggestively, "You look like you could do with worming up." He chuckles and leans back invitingly.
Claire wraps the wool around her tighter, looking very uncomfortable and leary.
Later, Lieutenant Barnes calls to Claire, "Ma'am. It's time to go madame." Claire wakes up. She has been sleeping in a chair before the fire.
"Where's the captain?"
"He received orders to proceed to Keswick, and he left during the night. Don't worry. Captain has said I was to escort you to Bellmont before we rejoin him." He walks out.
"Bellmont?" She gets up and follows him. "Bellmont? But I thought we were going to the garrison at Hazelmere."
"Fortunes of war. Bellmont's closer and along the road to Keswick. I wouldn't worry. It's a big house owned by a rich Englishman. He'll give you refuge, I'm sure."
Outside, Hugh Monro sees them leave the building and runs up to Claire. "Ah!" She recognizes him. The Lieutenant pulls him away from her, "Get away there." He knocks Hugh Monro to the ground.
Claire is insensed, "Lieutenant Barnes. I'm shocked that a king's officer would behave in such an unchristian manner."
"Ma'am, I thought he meant to do you harm."
Turning to Hugh, Claire asks, "Are you all right, sir? (Hugh nods and grunts) I apologize for the lieutenant's beastly behavior. Here, let me help you up."
Under her breath she whispers to Hugh, "Jamie's looking for me at Hazelmere."
Standing up she says more loudly to the Lieutenant, "I still don't understand why we're going to Bellmont instead of Hazelmere."
"Captain's orders, ma'am, as I said."
"Very well then. Bellmont it is." She nods at Hugh and he nods back.
We see a rather grand looking castle in the distance. Then at closer range we see British military tents on the grounds of Bellmont. Someone yells "Attention!" as Claire and Lieutenant Barnes approach the house."
Inside, Claire asks, "Who did you say lives here?"
The Lieutenant looks beyond Claire and says, "Do I have the honor of addressing the Duke of Sandringham?"
Claire turns around and sees him approaching. Sandringham (Simon Callow) says pleasantly, "You do, indeed. But the honor is all mine, Lieutenant. I do so treasure any opportunity to aid one of the king's officers, especially in these difficult times. How may I be of assistance to you?"
The Lieutenant hands Sandringham a message. "This is for you, Your Grace, from my commander. He requests your courtesy in giving temporary shelter to Mrs. Beauchamp, an English gentlewoman we rescued last night."
"Oh! My dear Mrs. Beauchamp, I should be delighted to offer you the hospitality of my humble home."
The Lieutenant says, "I thank you, Your Grace. My commander will be most obliged. Good day, ma'am."
Once they're alone, Sandringham false smile vanishes and he states, "I need a drink and something to eat, and so do you, from your appearance. Rescued, did he say? Rescued from what? Rabid bears?"
"Highlanders."
"Much the same thing."
"Hmmm. You mentioned a drink?"
Jamie and Murtagh see some horses tied up next to a fire near a ramshackle building of some sort. There are a couple of men nearby sitting down. Jamie says, "I'll take the gray one. You take the other."
"So, now we're traitors, murderers, and horse thieves. Tell me, does it ever occur to you that taking Claire to wife might not ha' been the wisest thing you ever did?"
"No. Hmm. It doesn't."
Back at Bellmont, the Duke and Claire are seated at a table being served some food by a servant. Claire says, "And then they suddenly changed their minds and brought me here. You have only the one servant, Your Grace?"
"Well, I do still have my valet. But I'm afraid things are a bit tight at the moment. The cook is only here three days a week. You've brightened my outlook considerably by being here."
"Why did you pretend not to recognize me? It's not that I'm not grateful, but I was afraid you'd just blurt out my real name."
"Oh, the last thing I would do, my dear, is to blurt. But how could I possibly commit such a lovely woman to the tower? So damp. Quite took all the curls out of my wig the last time I was there. But I suppose you don't have to suffer these inconveniences, do you?"
"When were you a guest at the Tower of London? And for what?"
"Only a misunderstanding, I can assure you."
"I don't suppose this misunderstanding had something to do with your loyalties."
"Quite, which is why the army has virtually made a ring around my estate."
"What, more soldiers than there are out front?"
"Oh, my yes. They think they're being inconspicuous, but really, with those coats? They claim that they're resting and resupplying before they move on. In fact, I'm being watched. Every entrance of this house is being watched. I'm still suspected of being a Jacobite. I assume that your dashing husband must be intent on rescuing you even as we speak."
"It would be safe to assume so, yes."
"Excellent. Well, as I want to be rescued too, I'm coming with you, and that couldn't happen if I told the soldiers your name."
"I'm sorry. You're what?"
"You must know. You've always known that in my heart, I'm a Jacobite."
"I'm reasonably sure you don't have a heart. Now, why would Jamie rescue you?"
"Because I doubt the dear lad knows where you actually are. How could he? The only way that he could know your location is through my good offices."
"Really? Are you so sure about that? Perhaps he's riding through the front gates in this very moment."
"Oh, I certainly hope he isn't, because if so, he'll find himself in a trap."
"So what do you propose?"
"I know a man who can get notes past the soldiers. In return, though, I must have your word that Jamie will extract me from my present situation and deposit me in some safe haven. I'm confident that Jamie will honor his wife's promise."
"Fine. But I'll need some paper and a quill."
"Follow me."
The duke is looking over Claire's shoulder as she's writing. He says, "Gaelic? Do you speak that barbarous tongue?"
"We both know that messages are frequently intercepted. But if you don't trust me, I'm certainly happy to write it in English and just hope that your messenger boy doesn't get caught."
"You wound me, madam."
"Your messenger is not to go anywhere near Jamie. He is to deliver this to a beggar named Munro, who can be found on the road somewhere between Crich and the garrison at Hazelmere. If you get this message to him, he will find Jamie."
A door opens and Mary Hawkins (Rosie Day) comes in surprised to see "Claire!".
"Mary."
The duke looks exasperated. "I knew I was forgetting something. Such a happy reunion. My lovely goddaughter has some exciting news of her own. She's to be married."
Addressing Mary, Claire asks, "You're his goddaughter?"
"Well, she's certainly not a blood relative. I'm sure you do have a great deal to say to each other. I have some correspondence to dispatch if you'll excuse me." He leaves the room.
Mary says to Claire, "Come with me."
Mary carries a candlestick and leads Claire somewhere below. Claire asks, "Mary, what are we doing down here?"
Mary replies, "This is the only place I can speak without feeling like I'm being listened to or watched. Oh Claire, you have to help me. I can't marry Mr. Granger. I just can't."
"Who's Mr. Granger?"
"The man my godfather's promised me to--a wealthy merchant who wishes to attach himself to the family of a duke, even if it does mean marrying soiled goods."
"A loyalist, I'll wager."
"Yes, I suppose so."
"Of course. Trying to play the British side by having his goddaughter marry a supporter of the king."
"I don't care why. I just can't do it."
"Calm down. I will speak to your godfather. But he just made a decision that means you might not have to marry a loyalist."
"Oh, would you? Thank you, Claire. (Mary hugs her fearcely ) Thank you so very much."
Sandringham's messanger (Scott Hoatson) is galloping up to a man on the road shouting, "Munro. Are you Munro? (stopping) Good evening to you sir."
The man says, "Good evening."
"I'm looking for a beggar called Munro. I understand he may be on this road."
The farmer (Colin McCredie), says, "I'm not likely to be asking the names of beggars."
"But have you seen any beggars on this road?"
"I passed an odd little fellow in a slouch hat and a raggedy coat about half a mile back. Could have been a beggar."
"Much obliged." The messenger rides off.
"Hey! You there! Are you Munro? (the begger runs away into the brush) Wait! Wait! Munro!"
Munry smacks the messenger with a stick knocking him to the ground, then grunts at him.
The messenger says, "I've been sent by the Duke of Sandringham to give you a letter."
Munro shakes his head and says, "Ah." The messenger pulls out the letter and Munro grabs it from him."
"It was written by a Lady Claire Beauchamp for a James Fraser. (Munro runs off) Customarily, I'd be given a tip on delivery." He gets up and says, "Oh."
Back at Bellmont, the Duke enters with his valet and says, "Mrs. Beauchamp. Tired of Mary so soon? Not that I blame you."
"Actually, I wanted to speak with you about your plans for her marriage."
"No discussion is necessary. The die is cast; the bargain is struck. You'll be pleased to hear that I've been speaking outside to the commander, who's agreed to withdraw the soldiers."
"But I thought they were here keeping an eye on you."
"Well, they may not be very far away or for very long, but they will go. I mean, I am still a duke." He takes off his cloak and his valet grabs it. Claire notices the distinctive birthmark on the valet's right hand and recognizes it from the man holding her when Mary was being raped.
The valet sees her looking at it and covers it with the ruffles of his cuff. The duke notices that something is amiss by Claire's expression. "Are you all right, madam? You seem perturbed in some way."
"How long has this man been in your employ?"
"Well, I hired him in Paris. You're not thinking of stealing him away for your husband. Danton (Andrea Dolente) is very loyal to me."
"When did you hire him in Paris?"
"What an odd q-- (Danton closes the door) She recognizes you!"
Danton repliles, "Your Grace, I promise you I took all precautions."
Claire addresses the duke, "You! You put them up to it? Your own goddaughter?"
"Yes, well, that was unfortunate. There was never any intent that you should be killed, Mrs. Fraser. That was the comte's original desire, to be sure."
"Comte? The Comte St. Germain?"
"Yes. Ah-- I understand that you killed him yourself. I'd dearly love to have the details of that encounter. I owed him a rather large sum of money, you see, and I had no immediate means of payment, but I was horrified by the notion of disposing of such a delightful woman. Such a waste. So I managed to persuade Monsieur le Comte that simply having you raped was sufficient revenge for the loss of his goods. You should really be very grateful to me. You could so easily be dead by now."
Danton speaks up, "And you still could be, madam, easily."
"No, you're going to regret sending your guards away once Jamie gets here."
"I didn't send them very far away. When I told the captain that I was expecting Red Jamie, he made himself a bit less conspicuous to help lure your husband into my trap. Proving myself loyal to the crown by turning over Red Jamie and his traitorous English wife offers a much more permanent way of correcting misperception of my motives than going on the run. You could be hanged side by side. So romantic. (to Danton) Take Mrs. Fraser to her room. And lock her in."
Hugh Munro is in the woods and smiles as he sees Jamie and Murtagh galloping towards him. He steps into the road spreading his arms, grunting.
Jamie sees him and says. "Hugh" then something in Gaelic.
Hugh says "Ho-ho." Jamie says, "Oh." They make some hand motions and Jamie hugs Hugh. Jamie asks, "What the devil are you doing here?"
More grunting, then "Eh-ah-way." "Aye."
Murtagh is lost in the conversation going on. "What's that now?"
Jamie explains, "Says it's a letter from Claire. He got it from a messenger."
They both look it over. Murtagh asks, "Is that supposed to be Gaelic?"
"At least it's trying to be. What's that word?"
"Sighdran. That's not a word."
Jamie guesses, "I think she means soldiers."
Murtagh says something in Gaelic, then "I think she means soldiers around the house. The word order's all back to front."
Jamie proposes, "You can give her lessons later. 'S.' She's with Sandringham?"
Munro affirms, "Ah."
Murtagh says something else in Gaelic, then "That man's the original bad penny."
Munro agrees.
Jamie asks Hugh, "You know where Bellmont House is?"
Hugh shakes his head yes, "Ha. Ah, ah-ooh-ooh. We go, huh?"
Jamie says, "Aye."
Murtagh continues complaining about Claire's Gaelic. "She's even misspelled 'help.'"
Back at Bellmont, Jamie, Murtagh, and Hugh are outside in the dark, and Claire is inside looking out the window, worrying about them coming into a trap. She thinks she sees Hugh outside.
A door opens, and Mary comes in. "Mary!"
Mary asks, "What are you doing? Why are you locked in?"
"I don't have time to explain everything now. I have to get out of here and get word to Jamie."
"Take me with you."
"All right, but you have to help me. I think Jamie is on his way, but there are soldiers hiding in the grounds. I'll go out through the kitchen; you go out the front way. There's a beggar in the garden."
Mary is confused, "A beggar?"
"Yes, but he's a friend. His name is Hugh Munro. If you find him first, then yo have to tell him to warn Jamie. It's a trap. He can't come anywhere near the house."
"Mary shakes her head, "Me, go out in the night to meet a filthy beggar? Oh, Claire, I couldn't. I couldn't possibly."
"For God Sakes! Fine. Then stay here, but be quiet."
Claire escapes the room through a trap door behind a very large painting. She runs down a long hall, then down a flight of stairs. She goes as quietly as possible through a door into a room where a pig is roasting on a spit in a very large fireplace (it's turning, but who'se turning it?). She starts to exit through another door but is surprised by the duke eating something, not wearing his wig.
"Good evening, my dear. Do forgive the informality. I wasn't expecting a guest. Nothing worse than going to bed on an empty stomach, don't you agree? Do join me."
Claire closes the door looking trapped.
Outside the manse we see a redcoat patrolling with his gun.
Back inside, Claire is seated across from the duke, with a glass of wine, when the duke asks, "Did you truly strike down the comte in front of the king himself,
or was it at the king's order?"
"It was an accident."
"I doubt that. Comte is a most distasteful man. No sense of humor whatever."
"Perhaps I shall have something to eat. It's going to be a very long night."
"The time will move swiftly with such a charming companion. One rumor was that you cast a spell on Comte and that his heart just stopped."
Mary comes through the door wrapped in a blanket.
Sandringham asks her, "What the devil are you doing here?"
Mary stammers, "Uh--uh--I just wanted something to eat."
The duke puts some food on a plate and tells her, "Just go to bed. Now. Lady Broch Tuarach and I are having a most amusing conversation."
Mary looks at Claire meaningfully, takes her plate, and leaves. She starts running and runs right into a redcoat, but Hugh Munro knocks him over the head and Mary tells him, "Claire's downstairs in the kitchen. Tell Jamie it's a trap."
Danton enters the room and says, "Where are you going, little mouse?" She runs but he grabs her. Behind Danton Mary can see Hugh dragging the redcoat away from the doorway.
"Ah, let go of me, you brute, or I'll tell my godfather how you grabbed me."
Danton hears a noise and goes to the open door, then closes it.
Outside, Jamie tells someone, "Stand and watch here." Then he's watching a redcoat guard who's facing away from him. Jamie takes him out. He jumps the fense, pulls out his dirk, and makes his way stealthily toward the house.
Inside, Sandringham is telling Claire, "My personal favorite has you turning a broomstick into a poisonous serpent and commanding it to attack the comte, sort of like a latter-day Pharoah and Moses-- Lady Moses, I mean--"
Danton barges in and states, "Your Grace, I found Mademoiselle out on the front steps." Mary is with him.
She says, "I can't marry Mr. Granger. I--I tried to run away, but it was so dark, and I was so scared, and I was afraid of the soldiers. And I just couldn't--"
The duke's had it. "For God sake! Just go to bed!" Danton grabs her arm and pulls her out of the room.
"Um, oh, yes, the snake story. Well, now--Good Lord." He spots Jamie, and Danton has a knife to Claire's throat.
Jamie yells, "Claire!"
The duke grabs his wig and stuffs it awkwardly onto his head.
Danton tells Jamie, "Throw your weapon away and back off!"
Jamie looks fit to kill, but drops his knife. Murtagh comes through the door. Claire elbows Danton in the ribs. Jamie grabs Danton and throws him to the ground. Claire yells and points to Danton, "This is the man who attacked us in Paris!"
Jamie says, "Claire."
Mary is observing this.
Sandringham says, "Now, now, now, now, now come on. Le-let's all just calm down and discuss this thing rationally like level-headed people."
Jamie has Danton pinned on the floor. Danton says, "It wasn't my fault. He made me do it."
Claire confirms this, "It's true. He arranged the attack to pay off one of his debts to st. Germain." Jamie hits Danton in the face and knocks him out.
Sandringham studders facing a furious Jamie, "Y-y-y I-i-it could have been so much worse, believe me. You can't imagine what the comte had in mind. I just told Danton to terrify the women. You know me, Jamie. I, I'd never countenance such a vulgar thing as a rape."
Claire sets the record straight. "That's a lie. Rape was your idea."
At that, Jamie grabs the duke by the neck. "Aye, aye, I do know you, Your Grace. You'll say whatever to whoever to save your own skin."
Sandringham states, "Well, that stops today." Mary is fingering a knife (maybe the one Jamie dropped).
The duke says, "I promise." Jamie looks at Murtagh who looks lethal. Danton is coming to, and Mary is walking calmly toward him.
Jamie says, "Aye, as you say." Then he pushes the duke toward Murtagh.
Danton is pulling himself up and Mary runs towards him stabbing him in the gut. She pulls the knife out and Danton falls on the floor grunting.
Claire is shocked! "Mary!"
The duke is slowly backing away from this scene but gasks as he bumps into Murtagh who turns him around and strikes him with an axe. Blood splatters everywhere. Then he stands over him and brings the axe down again, severing the duke's head. One more strike finishes the job. He drops the axe, then picks up the duke's head by his hair. He visibly calms down, walks over to Mary and kneals down. "I kept my word. I lay your vengeance at your feet."
Mary gathers herself and says, "I think we'd better go." Everyone agrees and they leave.
The episode starts off with Jamie (Sam Heughan),
Claire (Caitriona Balfe), Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix) Fergus (Romann Berrux), and their men arriving at the encampment near Inverness looking very tired and bedraggled.
Fergus asks, "Where are we?"
Claire answers, "Just outside Inverness."
A very tired Fergus asks, "Is that good?"
Murtagh assures him, "We can rest here at least."
"Very well. You look as if you need to sleep."
Someone yells in the background, "Adam! Smiths!"
Claire states in a Voice Over: "It was hard to believe that these were the same brave Highland warriors who had beaten the British army at Prestonpans and Falkirk, who had marched triumphantly into England. Five months of retreat with not enough food and brutal weather had left them broken and demoralized.
Our worst nightmare was coming true, and I felt completely helpless in the face of it."
Ross (Scott Kyle) tries to help
Rupert (Grant O'Rourke) take off his sword, but Rupert shrugs away saying, "Hey, take yer filthy hands off me."
"Say this for ye, Rupert, losing an eye hasna improved yer disposition any."
"Well, what good is a rebellion that runs from a fight? Ken what poor Angus would say?"
"The same as poor Kincaid, I expect. It's time we turned showed them our faces."
Rupert grunts in agreement.
As they enter their new residence, Claire helps an almost asleep Fergus inside and Jamie orders his uncle Dougal MacKenzie (Graham McTavish), "Dougal, I ken yer men crave sleep, but I need you to take a patrol out, locate the enemy. Find out how close behind us they are."
Dougal is concerned. "The horses'll need feeding afore we set out."
"Aye. Take whatever we have left, but find the British army for us."
"See that there's food here when we return. The men's strength is dwindling on a bannock a day."
Jamie says, "Murtagh, Lord George will be calling a war council shortly. I need ye to ride to Inverness, fetch the prince. Ye'll find him at Thunderton House, Batchen Lane."
"A war council, eh? I think we three ken where that will lead. Culloden Moor lies but a few miles east of here. 16th of April, ye said. That's when history records the battle."
Claire affirms this. "Three days from now. All that work, all that plotting, how the bloody hell did we end up here?"
"As ye say, Sassenach, it wasna from lack of trying. But dinna wave the white flag just yet. There's still time to avoid the fight we canna win, if I can make Charles see reason. I must see to the welfare of the men. Hopefully there's something to eat in this Godforsaken place."
Claire says, "I'll need to go into Inverness, see if I can replenish my medical supplies. I won't be long."
Claire enters the Apothecary shop in Inverness. The Apothecary Clerk (Ben Clifford) is saying, "Ginger, chamomile, and arsenic. Will there be anything else, Miss?"
Claire recognizes a familiar voice, Mary Hawkins (Rosie Day)! "A bottle of laudanum."
The clerk looks worried. "That's the second bottle this week, Miss. It's a very strong medicine."
Mary is insistent. "A bottle of laudanum. Please."
"Mary?"
"Claire."
Claire asks Mary, "What on earth are you doing here?"
Mary looks rather disgruntled. "I assume you've come with the Jacobite army. Everyone seems to think there'll be fighting soon."
"Yes, that may be true. But why are you here? We sent you home after what happened with the duke."
"Yes. And then Alex contacted me. You heard me correctly, I am here with Alex Randall.
He got a position assisting the overseer of a large English estate near Inverness. And I decided to join him. Alex and I are to be married."
Claire signs and says, "That's wonderful."
Mary asks, "Is it? You pretended to be my friend."
"I am your friend."
"Alex told me how you convinced him that leaving me in Paris was in my best interest."
Claire rationalizes, "He was in very poor health. And he had no prospects for employment; I ..."
The clerk comes back and interrupts the conversation. "Here's your laudanum, Miss."
Mary says, "Thank you."
"Mary. I'm sorry for any pain that I caused you or Alex. I shouldn't have interfered. The situation, it was it was complicated. Is Alex all right?"
Mary is in denial of the truth. "He's going to be fine. I'm taking care of him now. Our landlady has a sickly child, and she's been advising me on proper medicines."
"I see. Perhaps I could stop by? To see Alex and to apologize."
Mary looks doubtful that will help matters but says, "If you wish. We've taken a room at McGilvrey's Boarding House."
Quartermaster John O'Sullivan (Gerard Horan) is stating, "Gentlemen, I have studied our situation carefully, and our choice is clear: the best spot to join battle with the enemy is mere miles from where we now stand.
Culloden Moor. Are we agreed?"
Jamie says wryly, "Aye. That is the perfect spot for the British."
Lord General George Murray (Julian Wadham) says, "With that, I do agree."
Jamie expounds on why the Quartermaster's idea is a terrible one. "Culloden Moor is flat, plain ground, sir. Without sufficient cavalry and artillery, our lines will be smashed to pieces before our troops can even engage the enemy."
Andrew MacDonald (Jim Sweeney) chimes in, "Aye, Clan Fraser, perhaps. But the MacDonalds will get the job done."
Donald Cameron of Lochiel (Sean Hay) adds, "Aye, and the Camerons."
Jamie tries to reason with Prince Charles. "With all due respect, why fight at all? I implore you, Your Royal Highness, walk the camp. See for yourself the poor state of your army. The men are too exhausted to fight a major battle."
The Quartermaster is insensed! "I refuse to listen to any more of this coward's talk!"
Prince Charles Stuart (Andrew Gower) says, "Enough."
Jamie tries to offer a better plan. "There is still the matter of the French gold. A large shipment, you may recall, supposedly sailed from the continent. With such funds, we can secure food and weapons. While we wait for its arrival, we split the army into smaller units, making it more difficult for the British to follow. Then, when our men are well rested and have the supplies they need, we choose the better ground to fight upon and defeat our enemy once and for all."
The Prince touches Jamie's cheek and states, "James you are my most loyal companion and friend. (He picks up a small, pathetic sword) But I am not some frightened hare to be run down by a pack of British hounds. I am a man. And I am a soldier. And I shall comport myself as one. I'm weary of retreat. The men will rest, and then we shall march to Culloden. Gentlemen, God will provide for us. We do His bidding."
The General looks disgusted, "May He have mercy on us all."
Claire is walking down the streets and approaches a house with a sign stating it is McGilvrey's Boarding House. She goes inside and in the hallway she hears caughing. She goes through the door and hears Mary saying, "I've dissolved some more arsenic in this tea."
Claire says gently, "Mary, arsenic will bring color to his cheeks, but it won't help his cough."
Alex Randall (Laurence Dobiesz) is lying on a bed wheezing and caughing, and shivering, holding a cloth with blood stains to his mouth. "Madame Fraser. How good it is to see you."
Claire looks sad and doubtful, but answers, "And you, Alex."
Mary advises him, "Save your breath."
Claire agrees, "She's right. I'll prepare a poultice to ease the muscles on your chest and back."
Looking past Mary and Claire, Alex says, "Johnny. You remember Madame Fraser. You said nothing about another visit in your last letter. And where is your uniform?"
Black Jack Randall (Tobias Menzies), dressed in a black suit, explains, "I was granted leave to see you. I didn't want to attract attention."
Alex says, gasping for breath, "So good to see you, Johnny."
Claire, looking very uncomfortable, starts to leave, but Mary stops her. "You're not leaving, are you? I don't know what would have become of us without John."
"What do you mean? "
"Alex has been unable to work for weeks. We would be completely destitute if it wasn't for John paying our bills. When do you think he'll be able to get back to work again?"
Claire looks at her sadly, "Mary I think you need to start making reparations with your family so you have somewhere to go when Alex ..."
"When Alex what?"
Claire is blunt. "He won't be going back to work. He can't be cured. I'm sorry.
Naive Mary is still in denial. "Bu but he must be cured." Then she grabs her belly.
"Oh, God, Mary, are you pregnant? Does Alex know?"
"Yes. And John."
Alex weakly calls for Mary.
Black Jack approaches Claire and Mary. "Alex is asking for you." Mary goes to him and Claire makes her escape.
Black Jack follows her outside and stops her. "Madame Fraser. Claire. Do not take your animus for me out on my brother. Alex has not drawn an easy breath in weeks. His youth and vigor are drowning in blood and phlegm. Cure him."
Claire, looking quite disgusted, says, "As I've explained to Mary, I cannot help him."
"What are you saying?"
"Alex can't be cured."
"But you can ease his pain. I do not ask for myself. I ask for my brother and Mary and their unborn child."
"If I am to attend your brother, then I want something in exchange. You will tell me where Cumberland's army is."
"My. You would barter over an innocent man's suffering? Madame Fraser, you impress me."
"The woman I am now is not the woman I once was, Captain Randall."
"Hmm."
Back at their quarters, Jamie is furious, knocking things over. "We'll never rid ourselves of that man."
Claire tries to sooth him. "But perhaps this time, his presence in our life - will be good for us."
"Nairn. Are you sure that's what Randall said? That Cumberland's army is encamped at Nairn?"
"Yes."
"That's only 12 miles from here."
Claire adds, "And he said that two nights from now, there'll be a celebration for Cumberland's birthday there."
"Well, that's very interesting information indeed, Sassenach, if it's true."
"I actually believe him. Normally, I wouldn't, but he seemed desperate. And we could confirm it, couldn't we?"
"Aye. Aye." A plan is coming together.
"I want to go back and tend to Alex. I know it's a small act in light of everything we're facing here, but I believe I owe Mary that much."
"And what if Alex dies in your care? Huh? What's to stop that evil bastard brother of his sending you into the next world after him?"
"Murtagh could go with me."
A carriage approaches the headquarters. We see someone with two very twisted legs being lifted out of the carriage.
Rupert looks out the door, smacks a dozing Murtagh and says, "Here, on yer feet, ye lazy swine."
Murtagh looks up, "What?"
Rupert asks, "Would ye be so kind as to tell me what the MacKenzie's doing here?"
Murtagh replies, "If I knew, I would."
Colum MacKenzie (Gary Lewis) wobbles in with help, "It's good to see some familiar faces. I was sorry to hear about Angus' death. I always thought when that wee bastard fell, that you would fall with him."
Rupert agrees, "So did I."
"Well, how long am I to stand here on these rickety sticks of mine? Find me a bed to rest on. Bring me my brother and my nephew."
Colum is lying in bed and Claire is checking him out.
"Ye're wasting yer time with all this prodding and poking. The healer who took your place at Leoch, he's been looking more and more dour these past few weeks."
Claire says, "With good reason, I'm afraid."
"I've been dying for years. It's a wearisome process. I welcome its conclusion."
Jamie asks, "Is that why ye travelled all this way, in yer weakened condition? To hurry your death along?"
"It would appear my brother still gets satisfaction from keeping me waiting."
Jamie informs him, "Dougal isna in camp at present. He's leading a scout."
Colum chuckles. "I always said ye were a smart lad. Give my brother enough authority to keep him content, but not enough to allow him to grab for more."
Claire approaches them holding a mug.
Jamie chuckles and says, "It's as if ye read my mind."
"While we await his return, I shall speak with Claire in private."
Jamie tells them, "I'll be close by, if needed." Then he exits the room.
Claire tries to hand Colum the mug. "Here." Colum doesn't take it.
"My good lad. I commend ye on such an admirable marriage, Claire."
"I remember a time when you found our union less agreeable."
"I was wrong. That's one of the pleasures of dying. I can finally admit my mistakes. It also makes it easier to ask for favors. And I need one from you, Claire. My pain, it grows more tedious by the day."
"I'm sorry. I'll get you some laudanum."
"Laudanum, no, no. Laudanum just dulls the senses. I would prefer something more final."
Claire tries to wrap her head around this statement. "Isn't suicide a sin?"
"What's one more sin to a sinner? Geillis Duncan gave her husband a quick death.
I would welcome the same."
"It may have been quick, but death by cyanide poisoning is an agonizing way to end one's life."
Colum says, "I leave the details to you. I trust that you will give me a kinder death than that bitch gave poor Arthur."
"Do not speak ill of my friend Geillis."
"Memories they remain raw even longer than wounds. But I have a piece of news to ease yer mind. Geillis' bairn lives."
"How?"
"Geillis wasn't burned until after the bairn was born. A boy."
"Where is he now?"
"He's with William MacKenzie and Sarah. They have no children of their own."
"Does Dougal know? I've never heard him mention the child."
"The boy is but one more mistake my brother has to live with."
Claire gets up and rummages through her medicines, then hands Colum a bottle. "This is yellow jasmine. It will be like drifting off into a deep sleep. For when you're ready."
Colum grins ear to ear. "For what it's worth, y-you have my deepest gratitude."
Back at the McGilvrey's Boarding House, Jack is trying to comfort his brother who is coughing and wheezing. "Breathe. Shh. Shh."
Claire is stuffing some dried leaves into a pipe.
Mary asks Claire, "What are you doing?"
Claire orders, "Mary, light a taper."
Jack is supporting Alex and looks doubtful, "Shh, shh, shh, shh. He can't smoke that."
"It's a mixture of coltsfoot and thornapple. It will help open his airway."
Jack states, "He can barely breathe."
"This will help him breathe. Trust me. I know what I'm doing. Mary, I need you to hold this."
Claire takes the pipe and puffs on it, then holds it up to the paper tube that Mary's holding.
Jack says, "No. No, no."
Mary says, "Please."
Alex is caughing and gasping terribly.
Claire orders Mary, "Hold this up to his face. Cover both his nose and his mouth. That's it. Okay, breathe it in. Breathe it in. Breathe deeply. That's it. One more time."
Jack says, "Slowly, Alex. Shh. Inhale."
Claire orders, "Breathe it deeply. Okay, one more."
Jack encourages Ales, "Deep and slow, shh."
Claire says, "Deep and slow. That's it."
Jack says to Alex, "It's all right" then motions to Mary to help Alex, "Mary."
Mary climbs on the bed and takes over, "You're okay. Here you go. There. There, there."
Alex's breathing has settled down and he appears more comfortable.
Jack approaches Claire, "Madame Fraser. He's in pain."
"Yes, I know."
Mary gets up and approaches them saying, "Perhaps a bit more arsenic."
"No more arsenic. It won't do any good. Laudanum if he needs to sleep. But there's nothing more I can do. I'm sorry."
Jack is upset. "Sorry? We had an agreement. You said you would help him."
"I am helping to ease his pain, but I can't cure him."
Murtagh steps in, "If ye need to vent yer frustration, then I'll happily oblige ye."
Claire admonishes them both. "Stop it, both of you."
Alex whispers, still wheezing a bit, "Johnny. Johnny."
Jack asks, "Alex, what is it?"
"I must ask you to do something for me, for us."
"Anything."
"Know that I do not ask this lightly, but for the sake of your love for me..." He starts coughing again.
Jack says, "Shh. Alex, I won't let Mary or the child want for anything. You know that."
"Thank you. I've sent for the minister."
Jack looks worried, "The minister?"
Alex reassures him, "No, no, the last rites, not just yet. For your wedding."
"My wedding?"
"You and Mary, dear brother. I need you to look after her, Johnny. We want our child to have the Randall name."
"Alex, you can do that by marrying her yourself. Of course, I will see that she is taken care of."
"As her her husband, you can give Mary and our child some position in the world, so much more than I could. I commend the well being of those most precious to me to the one I have loved the longest. (Jack pulls away abrupbly) You think I am unaware of the density of the dark wall you have built to protect your better self from the world? But I have borne witness to your tenderness. I've been the beneficiary of your generous soul. That inner man is the one whom I entrust my love and my child."
Jack says "I'm sorry. I'm sorry." Then he charges out of the room.
Claire calls out, "Captain Randall."
Alex is coughing terribly.
Murtagh asks Claire, "Where the hell are ye going?"
Mary says, "Claire, please!"
ALEX|(COUGHING)
Claire says to Murtagh, "Go after him. I need to speak with him."
Mary is distraught with Alex's coughing. "Please."
Claire says, "Coming. Hold it up to his face again. One more time, breathe."
Jamie says, "Dougal, what news?"
Dougal replies, "The British are camped at Nairn."
"So I've been told."
"Oh, have ye? I wish ye could have been told before I did all that hard riding."
"I understand the British are planning to throw a party in celebration of Cumberland's 25th birthday."
"Well, we saw no such preparations. Where did ye get the information?"
"Given to Claire by a British officer. Jonathan Wolverton Randall."
"Black Jack Randall? Well, there's a tale behind that meeting, to be sure. And we're not giving that bastard's word credence?"
Jamie says, "No, not on its own. I've sent scouts to Inverness. It seems British commissary officers have been seen purchasing wine and sweet meats."
"Food and drink is all I've been thinking about on the ride back. What's this? " He looks at a pot containing some leaves.
There's little sustenance here, I'm afraid. You'll have to postpone partaking even in that."
"Why? My belly's crying out to be fed.
Jamie informs him, "Colum has arrived."
Murtagh and Claire are walking down a street in Inverness. Murtagh is confused. "I canna believe yer encouraging this madness, all to save goddamned Frank Randall. Hasn't enough suffering been had in the name of saving that mythical prick?"
"Frank is neither a myth nor a prick."
Oh, well, by all means, then, let us hand over the lamb to be a plaything for that twisted, black-hearted wolf."
"Look, I realize it may seem like I've made a deal with the devil himself, but Mary Hawkins needs a husband. Otherwise she and the child will be starving on the streets and destitute."
Murtagh surprises her. "Then I will marry her. Hmm. Hmm. She's not the sort of woman I'd ever imagine fer myself, not that I spend much time doing that, mind ye. And I'm hardly the kind she fancies, if that soft lump Alex Randall is any indication. But we could learn to get along. Hmm. People do. I've never been a father, but Jamie's parents, they chose me to be his godfather, and I've watched over him. (CHUCKLES) He didn't turn out too badly."
Claire states, "You've been a wonderful godfather to him. Mary and the baby would be lucky to have you."
"But?"
Claire states the obvious. "We're at war. You could end up dead tomorrow or the next day, and then where would they be?"
"Captain Randall could share the same fate, God willing."
"Yes, but as Randall's widow, she'd be entitled to his property and his officer's pension. Plus he has a family pedigree and a station that her father might find acceptable enough to let her come home."
"More acceptable than a broken down Highlander with no home and no two sticks to rub together, eh?"
"I'm sorry to say, but yes."
"Aye. This is the place.
Claire signs, "Well, wait here. I feel it might go better if I went alone."
Claire goes inside and sees Black Jack sitting at a table drinking. He looks up and signs.
"What kind of God creates a world where monsters thrive, beauty and purity is rewarded with poverty and death?"
Claire says, "The same God that also offers an opportunity for redemption."
"Hmm. You have to help me persuade him to give this up. Alex must marry the girl himself, give the child a father and a name. I will see that she is taken care of, but I ..."
Claire reasons, "And what happens to Mary when you're not alive to do that?"
"Hmm. Your curse. April 16th, 1746."
"Yes. The date of your death. Merely days away. And as your sister-in-law, Mary is entitled to nothing, but as your widow ..."
"What if your curse proves untrue and the world continues as it always has? The pure of heart choking to death on their own blood, helped there, perhaps, by the monsters that walk among them."
Claire asks, "Have you ever harmed your brother?"
"Never."
"Perhaps that immunity will also extend to those he holds most dear."
"Mm, perhaps. Is that good enough for you?"
"Sometimes that's all we get."
Jack asks, "Did he never tell you the things I did to him in that room?"
"Yes."
"I know the sound he makes at the last, when he has lost himself. And I regret none of it. The pain, fear, I revel in it. Do you really want Mary in my bed? Help me persuade my brother to give this up."
"Alex will not listen to me. But you are sending your brother to his grave with a broken heart. If you love Alex, then I trust that that love is enough to stay your impulses with Mary."
Dougal, Jamie and Colum are in a room. Dougal says, "It grieves me to see you so ill, brother."
"Congratulations on yer ability to hide it so well."
"If so, it is because I also feel joy at yer change of heart."
"What change would that be?"
"Joining the MacKenzies of Leoch with our righteous rebellion, restoring the king across the water to his throne."
Colum chuckles, "You think I've turned Jacobite? That I'm going to lead the MacKenzies over the cliff, with you lot? Well, I may be dying, but I have not turned simple."
Jamie asks, "If you didn't come to aid us, then why come at all?"
Colum explains, "There are matters, clan matters, that must be resolved while I can still draw breath. I have declared my wish that my son Hamish be the next chief of Clan MacKenzie."
Dougal asks hopefully, "Hamish is but a lad. Who will guide the clan till he comes of age, teach him what it means to be chief?"
"Ned Gowan can instruct him in clan law. And I have chosen a guardian, somebody I believe the clan will follow until Hamish comes of age, a man whose task it will be to guide the boy into manhood. To see that he learns how to choose what's best for the future of the clan and to thus demonstrate his worthiness to be chief. (SIGHS) James Fraser, I offer you this guardianship."
Dougal is naturally upset by this. "You choose a Fraser over a MacKenzie to lead the clan? Over your own brother? Deny me the boy's guardianship, when by rights, you should be proposing me as successor?"
Colum reasons. "Jamie is our sister's son."
"Ach, away."
"He shares our blood, and you know it. Besides, uh, I am skeptical that my support would be enough to convince the clan to choose you as their chief."
"Do ye not think the MacKenzies would follow my leadership?"
"Brother, if you were half as popular as you believe yerself to be, then there would be more men here today in this army of yours. Has that thought ever crossed your mind?"
"Christ's bloody cross! I love Hamish, and he is considerably fond of me. He barely even knows Jamie."
"He's your spawn, as you are very fond of reminding me, and I ken the deep affection ye hold fer the boy."
"And I ken the real reason behind this loathsome decision of yours. It's your last chance to punish me for fathering the son that you never could."
Colum groans. "I do not have the strength to pick at old wounds. It is the future of the clan that holds sway over my thoughts, and I will do all I can to ensure that future."
"And what future would that be? Do you honestly think that Jamie will do anything different from me? When you close yer eyes for the final time, he will rally the MacKenzies to our cause, and they will fight and die fer it. And damn your wishes."
Jamie jumps into the conversation. "I'm honored to be entrusted with the care of yer son. But Dougal speaks true. I will use every option in my power to defeat the British, and that includes raising the MacKenzie banner."
Colum says, "I do not doubt yer fighting spirit, but I know that you will not sacrifice your men needlessly. If the cause is lost, then you will put the lives of yer men above all else."
To Dougal he says, " You tell me that you would do the same. Say the words meaning them, in yer head and in yer heart, and the guardianship is yers. My poor brother. I have lived my life crippled in body, and he has lived his crippled in mind."
Back at the McGilvray's Boarding House, a Clergyman (Crawford Logan) is performing a wedding, saying to Jack, "In sickness and in health, forsaking all others, be faithful unto her as long as you both shall live?"
"I will."
"Miryam, will you take this man to be your husband, to live together forever in the covenant of marriage? Will you love him, comfort him, honor, and keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, be faithful unto him as long as you both shall live?"
Mary is crying but looks at Alex who says, "It's all right."
So she says, "I will."
"Will those of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold the marriage of these two people?"
Claire looks very uncomfortable but says, "We will."
Murtagh agrees too. "Aye, I will. Get on with it."
"O gracious and everlasting God, look mercifully upon this man and this woman, who come to you seeking your blessing ..."
Back at the Jacobite headquarters, Prince Charles asks, "A surprise attack? During Cumberland's birthday festivities?"
Jamie states, "I guarantee it will prove a birthday he'll not soon forget."
The Quartermaster scoffs.
Donald Cameron states, "A birthday and a burial on the very same day."
Andrew MacDonald agrees, "That will be worth celebrating."
Prince Charles says, "It doesn't sound very gentlemanly."
General Murray states, "I think we've all learned there's nothing gentlemanly about waging war."
Jamie clarifies, "It would mean a 12-mile march by night."
The Prince asks, "And are the men capable of such strenuous endeavor?"
Jamie states his plan. "They've not let us down yet. Lord George will lead one column, I the other. Together we will trap the British between us."
Charles looks at the Quartermaster. "John? John, I look to you, as always."
Quartermaster O'Sullivan concedes, "The plan has some merit, I'll admit. I will agree to it on one condition. Fraser, you and the general shall ride together. The prince and I shall command the second column."
Jamie looks skeptical. "I'm not sure that's very wise."
The General quickly affirms, "We accept your conditions. Well, then, gentlemen, it's decided."
Prince Charles says, "Mark me I shall bring my finest bottle of wine as a gift for Cumberland, and I shall present it to him when he's my prisoner. It will be most amusing to see his reaction."
O'Sullivan agrees. "Very good, sir."
Dougal and Colum are talking. Colum looks pretty weak.
Dougal says to his brother, "Brought ye a wee drink."
"Will ye not leave me in peace? Ye reek of sour wine."
"Aye, I do. It's all that I could find. I've drunk enough to muddle a stallion, and yet I remain as sober as a bairn. (CHUCKLES) Oh, well, it appears there is none left to share. Oh, well. Perhaps it's for the best. God knows I have no wish for you to think I would hasten your leaving of this world."
"I am beyond any injury you could do to me."
"'"Injury I do you'? What about all the pain you've put me through in this bitch of a life we've shared?"
Colum exhales deeply. "Your life is your own. I take no blame for it."
"I still remember the day. You know, the the day they brought ye back after you'd been thrown by that horse. Was a stallion, I think. Too wild for a ten-year-old to ride. You were sorely injured, but I knew you'd recover. You're my big brother. Nothing hurts you. Or so I believed. But you betrayed me, hmm? Instead of mending, ye got worse. And I watched ye every day, yer limbs getting more and more twisted. I watched you shrink. And I hated ye for it. And with that hate, I wept. I wept more than I ever have before or since. The world was never the same again. You destroyed it."
Dougal waits for a response but Colum is silent.
"No response? (CHUCKLES) Damn yer soul, answer me. Answer me.
Brother? Brother?"
Dougal realizes that Colum is gone.
"Oh, brother. So ye turn yer back on me one final time, eh? And ye leave me alone in the dark the darkness of the world. And all I hoped to say to you It remains trapped in here. Right here. Unsaid. Forever. All because you couldn't keep yer arse on a bloody horse.
Back Mary, Jack and Claire at Alex's bedside. Alex is breating very slowly, then stops. Black Jack chokes up, and Mary cries as they realize he is gone. Then Black Jack suddenly jumps on Alex's body and begins hitting him violently. Mary is sobbing and Claire, who is also shocked, tries to comfort and protect her. Then Jack gets ahold of himself and walks out.
Jamie says to Claire, "I can't believe you encouraged that wee slip of a girl to to become his wife."
"I encouraged her to become his widow. Black Jack will die tomorrow at the Battle of Culloden."
"But if we succeed tonight, there will be no battle."
"Then perhaps his death will come about by some other means."
"And if it doesn't?"
"Then I am prepared to keep my promise that I made to you in Paris."
"To help me bleed him. Remind me not to get on your bad side, Sassenach."
You be careful."
Then they kiss goodbye.
Jamie and General Murray are in the dark waiting with their troops.
General Murray says, "Well, where in God's name is that imbecile Charles? Was supposed to be here hours ago. Our army is spent. I fear we put too much faith in starving men."
Jamie states, "I'd take a starving Highlander over a drunken British soldier any day."
Murray agrees, "Aye."
Jamie proposes, "We could attack it now and hope the prince's men turn up in time. We have more chance here than with what awaits us on Culloden Moor tomorrow."
Murtagh gallops up stating, "The prince and his men, they turned back. They lost their way in the darkness. His troops are scattered from here to kingdom come."
Jamie urges Murray to continue anyway, "Let me give the signal to attack. We're here."
Murray argues, "Oh, with only a portion of our force, it would be madness.
And with the dawn, we'll lose the element of surprise."
Jamie is crushed. "No."
Murray continues, "I have no choice but to call off the attack. We march the army back to Inverness."
Jamie is despirate. This is their last chance to avoid the disaster at Culloden. "General!"
Murtagh states solumnly, "Tomorrow the prince will have his battle. On Culloden Moor."
1968 Inverness Scotland
The Season Two Finale opens with an old television set from 1968 playing an episode of The Avengers. A bunch of young people are watching the show, and an adult man is standing and staring at the screen as well.
John Steed (Patrick Macnee) says, "Good morning, Mrs. Peel."
Emma Peel (Diana Rigg) says, "Good morning, Steed. The door's open. (BLADES CLACKING) Social visit? That's it.
Happened to be passing by, thought I'd drop in.
The coffee's over there.
(INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC)
Not enough flexibility in the wrist.
Weight on the wrong foot.
Friendly advice.
There doesn't appear to be any cream.
Emma Peel says, "The cream is in the kitchen."
John Steed just says, "Oh."
A young woman (we later learn is
Fiona Graham (Iona Claire))
comes up to the man (we soon learn he's Roger Wakefield (Richard Rankin)) and says, "You really should get back to your guests. They keep asking for you."
Roger taps his glass to get everyone's attention.
"Thank you all for coming.
It would've meant a great deal to my father.
And if you knew him, you know that he was not one to leave anything to chance, including the toast for his own wake.
'To Death, the jolly old bouncer now.
Our glasses let's be clinking.
If he hadn't put other out, I trow, to-night we'd not be drinking.'"
Everyone toasts "The Reverend".
Mrs. Berrow (Carol Ann Crawford) tells Roger, "Your father was such a delightful man. I'll always remember his sense of humor."
"Thank you", Roger replies.
Mr. Berrow (Charles Jamieson) states, "The Reverend helped so many people. He'll be sorely missed."
"Thank you", Roger again replies, then asks Mrs. Berrow, "Would you excuse me, uh, for a moment?"
Oh, of course.
Roger, so sorry to hear about your loss.
Thanks very much. It's nice to see you.
My condolences.
Thanks very much. Appreciate it.
You have my sympathies.
Oh, thank you.
I'll speak to you in a minute.
Tom, how are you?
Yeah, not bad.
Good.
Listen, Roger, I'll be here for you.
I appreciate it. Thank you.
Okay.
Brianna (Sophie Skelton) asks, "Are you Roger Wakefield?"
"Yes. Definitely. That's me. Yes. I'm afraid I haven't had the pleasure."
Claire (Caitriona Balfe) walks up and says, "Roger".
Brianna confirms, "It is."
"Well, I can't believe it. After all these years."
Roger's confused, "Uh, I'm sorry, but do I do I know you?"
Claire clarifies, "Oh, of course, you wouldn't remember me. Last time I saw you, you were about, oh, seven or eight years old. I'm Claire Randall. I was an old friend of your father's."
"Ah."
Claire continues, "Very sorry to hear about his passing."
"Thank you."
"I see you've met my daughter."
"Actually, no, we haven't been formally introduced."
"Brianna. The daughter."
"A pleasure, Miss Randall."
Claire explains, "We were staying with relatives down in London when we heard.
His heart, I believe?"
"Yes, yes, uh very sudden. I'd just seen him at Christmas, and he was in high spirits."
"I hadn't seen your father in a very long time, but I I was very fond of him."
Brianna adds, "So was Daddy."
"Oh, yes, of course. Uh, my late husband, Frank they were very close."
"Randall. Frank Randall, of course. I remember you now, yes. Claire. You you're a nurse, as I recall."
"Oh, yes, I was. I I'm a doctor now."
Bree clarifies, "She's being modest. She's a surgeon."
"Hm."
"Uh, Bree and I are are visiting from the States."
"Oh, I thought I detected an American accent."
"Boston, to be exact", Bree adds.
"She's a history major in Harvard.", Claire proudly states.
Roger sounds interested, "Really? I'm on leave from the history department at Oxford."
"Oxford. Impressive."
Claire asks, "Is Mrs. Graham still in the Reverend's employ? I haven't seen her yet."
"Sadly, we lost her a few years ago, but her granddaughter Fiona is here somewhere."
Claire muses, "So many things are the same, and yet things are so different. There are quite a lot of memories here. Would you excuse me? - I'd like to take a look around."
"Yeah. Uh, first time in Scotland, then?"
"Uh-huh."
"And will you have much time to take in the sights while you're here?"
"We only came up for the day so Mother could pay her respects. We're meant to be headed back to London this evening."
"Oh, that's a shame."
"Beautiful, wild country. I was always curious about Scotland. It was a special place to both my parents."
Fiona approaches, "Roger? I beg your pardon, but it's time to say good-bye. The Browns are leaving."
"Oh, yes, of course. Thank you, Fiona. Uh you'll excuse me for a moment?"
"Yeah."
Claire's voiceover, "Mrs. Graham had warned me not to spend my days chasing a ghost, and so I hadn't. But now that I was here, the ghosts were starting to chase me."
Roger is saying goodbye to people leaving, "Thanks again. Thank you. Arthur, love to your wife. Hey, sorry she couldn't come along."
Claire walks up with Bree to take her leave as well, "Well, we should be going."
Roger asks, "Not all the way back to London?"
"Oh, no, we'll drive as far as we can and then stop at a pub for the night."
Roger offers, "There's plenty of room here if you'd like to stay."
"Oh, we couldn't possibly impose."
Roger scoffs, "You wouldn't be. In fact, I'd welcome the company. It's a big house."
Bree adds her two cents, "Sounds better than jolting down the wrong side of the road in the dark. Besides, it'll give me a chance to take in the sights. I hear it's a beautiful, wild country."
All right. Uh, just so long as we're no bother."
"I'll fetch your bags from the car. The guest room's just..."
Claire cuts in, "Top of the stairs. I remember."
Later Roger walks into a room where Claire is sitting in a chair in her pajamas and robe drinking.
"I couldn't sleep, so I helped myself to a dram. I hope you don't mind."
"Oh, no bother. I'll have one with you. Ah. That's better. You know, I pestered him for years to throw things away and clean up the clutter. Now I can't bear to part with any of it. There's a lot of history here."
"Mm-hmm."
"Not just the family's, either, but Scotland's as well. The college here in Inverness have asked me to donate his library to their archives. I'm not sure I'll donate everything. He was quite fond of several rare editions of Prince Charles Stuart and the Battle of Culloden."
Claire makes a face, "Culloden."
"Mm. Final battle of the '45. My ancestors fought and died there, actually."
"Really?"
"Yes, my true name's Roger MacKenzie. My parents were Jerry and Marjorie MacKenzie. The Reverend adopted me after they were killed in World War II."
"MacKenzie. I used to know quite a few MacKenzies once upon a time."
"It's a common name here. May I ask you something personal? How did you do it? Finally say good-bye to that one person you loved most in all the world?"
"Truth is, I've never been very good at saying good-bye, but that's the hell of it, isn't it? Whether you want to say good-bye or not, they're gone, and you have to go on living without them. Because that's what they would want. Thank you for the whisky. Good night, Roger."
Claire goes back up to the bedroom where Bree is asleep, and says. "God, you are so like him."
7:23 am 16 April 1746
Jamie (Sam Heughan) is walking with
Prince Charles (Andrew Gower)
trying to get him to listen to reason, "I tell you, the the army is not ready for battle this day. We must retreat to safer ground before the British realize their advantage and destroy us all."
Charlie is not having any of it, "You are my Thomas. It was the Apostle Thomas who doubted the Lord who had risen from the dead Not until he felt the wounds, pressed his fingers where the nails had been.
The Lord said to him, 'Because you have seen, you believe, but blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.' But today is the day, James.
And mark me, before this day is over, I will make a believer of you."
Later, Jamie is talking to Claire outside, "It's a blessing Colum didn't live to see this dark day."
"It's the prince."
"The Battle of Culloden will happen today, just as history foretold. Sentries have spotted the advance guard four miles out. Cumberland has broken camp.
His army is marching on the south side of Kildrummie Moss. Go inside. Inform Lord George."
"There's only one thing left. One possibility."
"What's that?"
Claire is cautious about being overheard, "Not here."
Solomon Burk's "BABY, COME ON HOME" is playing ('60S SOUL MUSIC) When your baby Packs up and leaves you You see her train Disappear out of sight What would you give If you had ...
Roger is giving Bree a tour, "Fort William. Built in the 1600s. The Gaelic name for it is An Gearastan Dubh, 'The Black Garrison.' It was used by the British as a command post and prison, intended to control the 'savage clans and the roving barbarians'."
Bree isn't all that interested, "Military history isn't really my specialty."
"It was your father's, though, right? The Reverend has a couple of his books in the library."
"One of my earliest memories is dropping an ice cream cone off the ramparts of Fort Ticonderoga, while he held forth on the heroics of Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys."
Roger thinks, "Ethan Allen? 'I regret I have but one life to give '"
Bree corrects him, "Nathan Hale. Common mistake."
"Never quote American history to an American."
"The Revolutionary War is practically a religious text in Boston."
"With George Washington as the Messiah and, uh, Benedict Arnold as Judas, no doubt."
"Benedict Arnold is a deeply misunderstood historical figure."
"I thought you didn't like military history."
"We Randalls are a verra complicated clan, laddie."
Roger laughs at that, "That is absolutely the worst accent I have ever heard."
Laughing, Bree asks, "Do you remember my father very well?"
"Bits and pieces. He was a snappy dresser. Wore his hat down over one eye, very dashing, and, um seemed very kind."
"He was. The kindest man in the world."
"Your mother seems very kind as well."
"My mother lives in another world. This place gives me the chills."
"With good reason. Many Scottish prisoners were flogged here. A lot of blood was spilled on this ground."
Claire is at Lallybroch, remembering...
Jamie's voice saying, "My father built this place, ye ken. His blood and sweat are in this stone."
Claire asking Wee Jamie, "Are you playing with the apples? What's your name?"
Jenny answering, "This is my wee Jamie. This is your uncle, mo chridhe, the one you're named after."
Claire showing Jenny her new baby, "Congratulations, your bonny little lass..."
Jenny naming her daughter, "Little Margaret Ellen Murray. 'Twas my grandmother's name."
Rabbie MacNab, "Claire, Claire, they're ready. They're giant."
Claire's response, "Oh, my goodness."
Jenny saying, "You were right, telling us to plant them."
Claire settling in, "I'm beginning to feel like I actually belong here."
Claire remembers Jamie's words, "I knew ye belonged here with me, since the first time I laid eyes on ye."
Claire sees him in the archway and remembers him reciting a poem, "Come and let us live, my Dear. Let us love and never fear. Then let amorous kisses dwell, on our lips, begin and tell a Thousand and a Hundred score, a Hundred and a Thousand more."
7:36 am
Claire is reasoning with Jamie inside, "This battle, this war everything that's about to happen it all depends on Charles."
Aye.
And what if he were to die now? Right now. Then the battle wouldn't happen, and this whole bloody rebellion would die with him."
Jamie's shocked, "Christ."
"I have this. It's yellow jasmine, and it's poisonous. It's what Colum took last night."
"Colum?"
"He begged me. He knew that his time was near."
"He took his own life? Claire, that's a mortal sin."
"He wanted a quick and peaceful death, and I gave it to him.
Charles has been suffering with scurvy for weeks, and I've been treating him regularly with tinctures. I could put this in a tea."
"Kill Charles Stuart?"
"The way it works it would be like drifting into a deep sleep."
"And he would never know?"
"No one would ever know."
Brianna and Roger are having a picnic on the bank of a loch, talking...
"Do you have any memory of an incident that happened with my parents when they were here?"
"How do you mean, 'incident'?"
"Something big that happened between them when they were here staying with your father."
Roger thinks.
"I was just a wee lad. I don't remember all the details, but I do recall finding Mrs. Graham crying out in the tool shed. There were a lot of broken things lying about, and I think she said your father had lost his temper and smashed everything up."
"My father smashed..."
"Yes, but that wasn't the reason why she was crying, I'm certain of that."
"My father definitely had a temper, but he kept it tightly under wraps. When did this happen? What year?"
"Your mother said I was seven or eight when she last saw me, so it must have been 1947 or '48."
"My father kept this lockbox on the top shelf of his closet. I knew where he hid the key, so one day, I opened it. There were letters in there from your father. Mostly academic stuff, but there was this one letter. The Reverend mentioned an incident involving my mother and my father, and the way he phrased it made me feel like it was something big, maybe something terrible. Definitely something he didn't want to spell out on paper. It scared me for some reason.
I put the letter back in the box, locked it, and never looked at it again."
"My father kept a journal. He wrote in it every night after supper.
There's boxes of them in the storage room, if you wouldn't mind getting a bit grubby."
"Grubby doesn't bother me. You should see my bedroom. (giggles) That didn't come out right."
Both of them are laughing, "No, no, but I I, uh, I get your meaning."
Claire is in Inverness and enters a building.
The
Records Clerk (Dawn Chandler) says,
"So I've traced the chain of title for the estate known as Lallybroch or Broch Tuarach and found this. It's the earliest document we have in our files, a deed of sasine, transferring title to the property from James Alexander Malcolm MacKenzie Fraser to James Jacob Fraser Murray. The property was transferred in 1745, witnessed by Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser and Claire Beauchamp well, it's a bit smudged, but I think her surname's Fraser as well."
Claire confirms, "Yes, I believe it was. And, uh, after that?"
Various Murrays, it seems. The property stayed in that family for many generations. I've, uh, made you a copy, so this one is yours to keep."
"Thank you. One last thing. Is it possible to do a genealogical search?"
"Aye, what's the name?"
"Roger MacKenzie."
Bree returns and Claire teases her, "How was your date?"
"It wasn't a date."
"Well, you have to admit he is rather handsome and intelligent. Not to mention, he has a lovely physique."
"Who says "physique"? Stop."
"Of course, there are those deep blue eyes."
"Maybe you should date him."
"Hmm. So where did you end up going?"
"Fort William. Have you been?"
"Once. Didn't much care for the place."
Bree asks her mom, "So what did you do today?"
Claire lies, "I just puttered around the village."
"Places you and Daddy went before?"
More lies, "Some."
"Do you miss him?"
"Of course."
"Sometimes it doesn't seem like you do, or you ever loved him."
"What a thing to say."
"Well, did you? Love him?"
"I did."
8:17 am
Back to 1745 and Jamie's talking to Claire...
"Make no mistake, this would be cold-blooded murder you would be carrying out."
Claire justifies, "To stop a slaughter. If we kill the prince, we take one life to save thousands."
Ross (Scott Kyle)
comes through the doorway, "Jamie. Lord George requests yer presence near the east dyke. Ye've to come at once. They're calling the men to form lines."
"Aye, on my way."
"We would need to move quickly."
"I could put this in his tea now and give it to him."
Dougal (Graham McTavish)
overheard and is furious, "Ye ungrateful son-of-a-bastard! You filthy, whoring witch!"
Back in 1968 at the Inverness University and the Four Tops' "Reach out I'll be There" is playing...
Roger tells Bree, "I'm meeting the curator on the second floor. I shouldn't be long, then we, uh, can go start the great excavation of the Reverend's journals. Will you be okay?"
"Yeah, sure, I'll hang out."
"Okay."
Music is playing, "All of your hope is gone And your life is filled with much confusion Until happiness is just an illusion And your world around is crumbling down, darlin' Reach out Come on, girl Reach on out for me... Reach out for me."
As the camera approaches her, the woman approaching the croud wearing red boots looks awfully familiar. It's Geillis Duncan, only now her name is Gillian Edgars/Geillis Duncan (Lotte Verbeck).
"And we can no longer allow their vision to dictate ours. When Scotland was united with England under a single crown, it was the beginning of the end for us. We lost more than our independence. We lost our spirit.
The government in Westminster, the bankers in the city, the newspapers of Fleet Street have stolen our money. Our voices our futures. Where are the rulers of old who knew how to look after their people? The kings who have become legendary Arthur of Wales, Richard the Lionheart, Prince Charles Edward Stuart. Our Bonnie Prince? We've all heard of the Battle of Culloden. But imagine how different Scotland would be now if we had won. Where is our Bonnie Prince Charlie today? You are Bonnie Prince Charlie. We are Bonnie Prince Charlie. Aye. Scotland!
Thank you so much. Thank you."
Gillian is signing autographs and passing out pamphlets.
"Cheers, and take that. Yes, thanks."
Bree tells her, "I liked your speech, but wasn't it the Scottish King James VI who united the crowns? And Queen Anne, his Scottish granddaughter, who signed the Acts of Union?"
"Aye, but Anne was raised Anglican, already under the influence of Westminster.
Prince Charles and his father King James wanted to undo all that."
"Sounds like they would've been just trading one king for another."
"Charles was Catholic and a Scot. Unlike German Geordie and the Hanovers, his loyalty was to us."
"Maybe."
"You're an American. Are you a student here?
"Brianna Randall. Just visiting."
"So why are you here?" (the same question Geillis asked Claire at Cranesmuir)
"I'm a history student. I like watching history being made."
Roger approaches them and says, "There you are."
Bree introduces them, "Roger Wakefield. Gillian Edgars."
"There's another big rally later, near here. We'll be making history. Cheers."
Claire goes into the Culloden Battlefield Museum.
A
Culloden Tourist (Tim Licata)
says, "Tall fellow, wasn't he?"
Claire replies, "Wasn't that tall in real life. He could have been great. He had the name, the cause, the support of good men willing to lay down their lives for him. They've taken a fool, turned him into a hero."
A
husband (Nick Cheales)
and
wife (Fiona Ormiston)
are looking at a display case. She asks, "And what's that thing inside there?" and he responds " Hmm, not sure. Looks like a dragonfly, maybe?"
8:18 am
Back to Dougal's confrontation...
Jamie reasons, "Dougal. It's not what ye think, man."
"No? Not what I think? What, that, uh, that woman was urging ye to foul murder, the murder of your prince."
"No. Dougal, you have to listen..."
"Shut your mouth. I kent you were a traitor the first time I clapped eyes on ye."
"Easy now."
"Ye see, Jamie ye place yer trust in someone, ye know? And ye ye give into them ye give into them with your heart and your soul, and for you to then plan the murder of our beloved prince!"
"No, Dougal"
"Christ. Christ. I'd rather be hung, drawn, and quartered. I would. Oh, Jamie. Ye've just ye've betrayed us, you know? Ye have. All of us. Your people. And worse than that, ye've betrayed Scotland herself."
"No."
Addressing Claire, "And you. You're nothing but a lying slut, who would lead a man by the cock to his doom, with your claws sunk deep into his balls."
"Claire is my wife. Ye'll no speak ill of her, even in your anger."
"Anger? Anger? Oh, no. What ye've done to me we're past anger."
"You're tired, Dougal. Cold and hungry."
As Dougal charges in, Jamie orders Claire, "Leave now."
Claire yells "No!"
Dougal cajoles, "Jamie, come to me and I'll kill you quick for your mother's sake."
"Dougal, we can talk this through."
But Dougal charges and they fight. Jamie's hand gets cut pushing Dougal's knife away. Eventually Jamie is stronger and pins Dougal under him but is hesitant to kill him.
"Just stay down. Just stay."
Then Claire makes up her mind and joins Jamie and together they plunge the knife in Dougal's chest.
Jamie realizes what's happend and says softly to Dougal, "I'm so sorry, Uncle."
Roger and Brianna enter the Reverend Wakefields storage room. Bree asks, "How long since anyone's been in this place?"
"Ages, I expect."
"Are these his journals?"
Aye. Aye, if there's anything here about what happened back in 1948, we should be able to find it."
Something squeaks and runs away.
"What was that?"
"Probably a rat. Here, use that. At least you won't be taken by surprise."
"Too late for that."
"Would you rather I did a rat satire?"
"A what?"
Chuckling, Roger explains, "A rat satire. An old Scottish custom. If you had rats in your house, you could make them go away by singing to them and telling them how poor the eating was where they were and how good it was elsewhere."
"You're kidding, right?"
Then Roger starts to sing, "Ye rats Ye are too many If ye would dine aplenty Ye must go, ye must go Go and fill your bellies Dinna stay and gnaw my wellies. Go, ye rats, go."
"You just made that up."
"Obviously. Any good rat satire must always be original."
"Wow, after that performance, there shouldn't be a rat within miles of this place."
Brianna discovers a paper in a box, "Randall."
"Now there's an heirloom for you."
"A letter of commission in the army, signed by His Royal Majesty, King George II. Dated 1735. 'Jonathan Wolverton Randall.' I remember Daddy talking about him. He's one of our ancestors."
"Here's a letter from your father."
Bree looks it over. "The Reverend was doing research on the Captain and my father told him to abandon the project. 'He's not the man I thought.' Odd."
Then let's take these boxes into the library.
8:26 am
Rupert (Grant O'Rourke)
walks into the room and sees Claire and Jamie with Dougal.
"Oh, God. Oh, Christ."
"Rupert."
"I'd have torn out my one good eye, if it could have stopped me seeing this. But seen it I have."
"Aye, ye have. Wait. There's one service I ask of you. Give me two hours. There are some things I need to tend to. Ye understand? And then? And then I'll come back and answer for what I have done. I give ye my word. Two hours. Grant me that, before ye speak."
"For the memory of the friendship that I once had for you, which you have now murdered as certainly as you did my chieftain I'll give ye two hours, and then I'll damn your soul to the fiery pit."
Claire remembers Frank and her visiting the Culloden battle site in 1945.
Frank said, "You can see how flat and open and boggy it is. The Highland army was completely exposed, and they then charged into the teeth of musket fire, cannons, mortars. And it was very, very quick and very bloody. In effect, Culloden marked the end of the clans and the end of the Highlander way of life."
A
woman (Clunie Mackenzie)
at the Fraser grave stone at Culloden asks Claire, "Are you a Fraser?"
"Yes. I am."
Claire's voiceover:
"I swore I'd never set foot on this horrid place, but here I am and you're here too. Or your bones, at least. I'm not going to cry Because you wouldn't want that, and besides I've come with good news. You have a daughter, Brianna. Named after your father, just as I promised. Jamie, I was angry at you for such a long time. You made me go and live a life that I didn't want to live. But you were right, damn you. Brianna was safe and loved and raised well. But sometimes, oh, when she turns and the light catches her red hair or I see her smile in her sleep It takes my breath away Because I see you. She was born 7:15 on a rainy Boston morning. (SOMBER MUSIC) And that's everything. Everything I can remember. See? No tears. Bet you didn't think I could do that, did you? That day at Craigh na Dun We said a lot of things, but there was one thing I didn't say. Couldn't. I haven't for 20 years. But I'm here, and now it's time. Good-bye, Jamie Fraser. My love. Rest easy, soldier."
Brianna is reading a magazine article she found, "'Kidnapped by the Fairies? Claire Randall, wife of noted historian Frank Randall Holiday in Inverness. Car found. Police thought she was possibly murdered.' Well, obviously not. She turned up. Three years later. 'Mysteriously found wandering, dressed in rags, disoriented, incoherent.' I think we've found your 'incident.' What about the Reverend's journal? Maybe he says more about this."
Roger asks, "Are you sure you want to do this? You may not like what you find.
"I want the truth. No matter what."
Bree walks in and Claire says, "Oh, there you are. Would you like some tea?"
Bree's not interested in tea. "What I'd like is to know exactly what you've been doing the past two days."
"As I told you, I've just been Puttering around town, collecting herbs."
"Is that all?"
"What's going on, Bree?"
"Did you see him?"
"Who?"
"My father. Did you see my father?"
"What kind of question is that to ask?"
"Not Daddy. No, he's dead. I know that. I'm talking about my father, the man you had an affair with. The man you were with for three years."
"Bree. It's complicated."
"No, it's pretty simple, actually. Newspapers say your 'miraculous return' was in April 1948. I was born in November '48. I did the math, and it turns out you were three months pregnant when the fairies brought you back to Daddy."
Roger enters the room unaware of their confrontation, looking down at a paper.
"Bree I found something else in the Reverend's correspondence. Not sure what it means, but Oh. I'm sorry. I should let you..."
"No, stay. It's your house, and you haven't lied to anyone."
Claire says, "I think we should talk alone."
But Bree insists, "He's my friend, and he stays."
"All right. But I think you should sit down."
"Yes. There was a another man. And I loved him very much. And yes he was your real father."
"You lied. All my life, you've lied to me."
"Frank didn't want you to know."
"Don't you dare blame this on him."
"He wanted to raise you as his own, and I agreed. It's why we moved to America. So we could put all this behind us."
"Until you found an excuse to visit Scotland? Is that really why we're here? So I could have some kind of surprise introduction to my real father?"
"No. It's not possible, anyway."
"Because he has no interest in meeting his daughter?"
"Because he's dead. I promised Frank I wouldn't tell you about him, so for 20 years, I I haven't uttered his name out loud. But now you know, and I need to tell you about him. About your real father Jamie Fraser."
"I don't want to know anything about him. Not one single thing."
Claire pleas, "Bree."
Roger chimes in, "Brianna. You told me you just wanted the truth, no matter what. This is it."
"Most important Jamie loved you very much. Even though he never met you, he loved you with all his heart. And he would have raised you Well, if it wasn't If it wasn't for the Battle of Culloden."
8:34 am
Jamie walks up to
Murtagh (Duncan Lacroix)
and states, "I've killed Dougal MacKenzie."
"Huh. Canna say I'm that surprised, only that it took ye so long.
What's to do, then?"
Jamie produces a document, and Murtagh asks, "What is it?"
"A deed of sasine. It conveys the title of Lallybroch to James Jacob Fraser Murray."
"Giving the place over to your nephew."
"Aye. This protects Lallybroch and keeps the estate in the family, safe from the Crown, to be held in trust by Jenny and Ian until Wee Jamie is old enough."
Claire observes, "But it's dated from a year ago."
"Aye, before the rebellion, before I was a traitor. I just need the signature of two witnesses."
Murtagh instructs
Fergus (Romann Berrux), "Go fetch your master ink and a quill, lad. Quick about it. Go. Will ye have me take it to Jenny?"
Jamie replies, "No, I'll have Fergus take it."
Fergus is surprised. "Me, milord?"
"Aye. Aye, you're to ride to Lallybroch. Ye'll leave now. This must reach Madame Murray without fail. It is worth more than my life or yours."
"I don't want to leave you, milord. I refuse."
"Ye must. Not just for the deed, but no matter what happens here today, it's important someone remembers. You understand?"
"I will not fail you, milord."
"I know ye won't."
Brianna is not buying what her mother is saying, "So how long have you been cooking up this story?"
"No, I I know this must sound crazy, but "
"Did you really think I would swallow this fairy tale? Do you think I'm still five years old?"
"It is not a fairy tale, Bree."
"The man I grew up with, who loved me for 20 years, isn't my father.
My real father is some 6'3" redheaded guy in a kilt from the 18th century? What is wrong with you?"
"Listen to me. Frank was your father in every way that matters except one. He didn't make you. Jamie and I did. You're just like him. Your hair, your mannerisms. Oh, he would have loved you and raised you if If it hadn't been for the Battle of Culloden?"
"Oh, my God, stop."
"It's true. Here. Look at this. Here. The deed to Lallybroch. Claire Beauchamp Fraser. It it's my maiden name, my signature."
"Just admit it! Admit that you are not a perfect person. Own up to the fact that you fucked someone else while you were married to Daddy, just like a million other bored housewives."
"I was not bored, and what Jamie and I had was a hell of a lot more than fucking. He was the love of my life!"
"Why are you doing this?"
"Bree, I I'm doing this because it's the truth."
"Only two people know what the truth really is, and one of them is dead. Too bad it wasn't you."
8:37 am
Jamie is instructing Fergus, "You stop for nothing, except to sleep. And if you do, hide yourself well. You're a soldier now, mon fils. I love you like a son."
Claire adds, "Like our own son."
Roger is showing something to Brianna, who is crying.
"That doesn't mean anything."
"I don't know what it means, to be honest, but the Reverend obviously thought it meant something."
"She's insane. That's all that matters."
"Now, don't lash out at me, but that deed of sasine did look authentic."
"So some woman back in 17-whatever had the same name as she does, or she read about someone and is fantasizing it was her own life."
"Or what if there's something to her story?"
"Keep that up and I might just lash out at you after all."
"Now, look, you told me that you could never get close to your mother, that she lived in another world. Well, maybe she's trying to show you that world."
"So you believe she traveled 200 years into the past? Through a stone?"
"It's not important if I believe it. She believes it. I'm just saying, maybe we should keep an open mind."
"How 'bout we keep an open tab instead?"
Claire's Voiceover: " There were ghosts around me everywhere since I'd arrived.
The face was unmistakable: Geillis Duncan.
I remembered the date she'd told me at the trial, the year she came through the stones. This was no ghost. Geillis was here a younger version of her but she was here."
Claire walks up to a house and rings the door bell. A man answers.
"Hello, uh I'm looking for Gillian Edgars. Is this her residence?"
"Aye. And what is it you want with her?"
"Well, I'm an old friend of Gillian's, Claire Randall. You must be Greg. Her husband. I'm not going to be in the area long. Do you know where she might be? I'd love to say hello."
Greg Edgars (James Robinson) replies, "Aye. She will likely be with the Roses, but I I've no kept up. Slàinte."
Claire asks, "The Roses? The White Roses of Scotland?"
"Aye. Aye, bloody Nationalists. She spends all her time down the Institute, day and night, spendin' all my money on courses. Folklore, they call it. She filled up a million notebooks with her findings. Why not just learn to type? Get a job if she's bored that's what I told her. So she left. It's been weeks now."
"So you say she's been gone for weeks?"
"Aye. That's what I said. Like if ye do see Gilly, tell her to come home, eh? Tell her I love her."
"Of course."
Greg has been drinking and drifts off. Claire sees some of the notebooks on a table and takes them before she leaves.
Roger is explaining to Bree, "Honestly, this pub's been here since 1820, and..."
Bree sees Gillian and she comes over, "Gillian, hi."
"You missed a great rally earlier."
"I'm sorry we missed it. Roger and I are just having a whisky."
"Aye. It's been a bit of a tricky day."
"My mother's insane."
"Mm. A sentiment echoed by daughters everywhere."
Bree says, "Maybe I'll catch you again at the next rally."
"Afraid I'm leaving tonight to further the cause. But don't stop asking the hard questions. That's the way the world changes."
Claire's voiceover: "For hours I read Geillis' notebooks.
I tried to make sense of the convoluted pages.
They contained formulas about the art and science of time travel.
Unlike myself, Geillis had studied and prepared for her journey.
I was stunned to learn she believed you must have a human sacrifice to move through the stones, and gemstones to protect and guide you.
From what I could tell, Geillis planned to pass through Craigh na Dun, and soon.
Sadly, I knew how that trip would end: with Geillis burned on a pyre in Cranesmuir.
I had to try and stop her."
8:43 am
The battle seems to be near, and Jamie tells Murtaugh, "Gather the Frasers of Lallybroch together and get them out of here. There'll be pell-mell on the moor, wi' troops and horses moving to and fro. Nobody will try and stop you wi' the British in sight and the battle about to begin. Tell them the order comes from me, and they'll follow without question. Lead them off the moor and away from the battle. Set them on the road to Lallybroch and home."
"Are ye sure?"
"Aye. This battle is already lost. No matter how righteous, it was doomed from the start. We've done all we could, but now it's over. I'll not have my kin die for nothing."
"And what are you to do?"
"I'll take Claire to safety. Then I'll turn back back to Culloden, and fight till it's done."
I'll guide yer men to safety and set them on the path home. But ken this: when ye return, I'll be waiting here to fight by yer side."
"No. No, I said I'll not have ye dying for nothing."
"I won't be. I'll be dying with you."
Bree enters the bedroom where her mother is and states, "I don't want to argue. Let's just agree that I have a father who isn't Daddy. I don't want to discuss your whole time travel delusion, but I do want to know more about this Jamie Fraser. Tell me about him."
"Of course. All right. Uh, he was tall and had red hair just like yours. His father's name was Brian, and that's where your name came from. He spoke French, and he loved to play chess. Uh, he had a sister, Jenny, who's your aunt It would take too long to tell you everything about him. But I promise I will.
Today, I visited his grave on Culloden Moor and was telling him all about you..."
"This is the part where you lose me."
"I didn't intend to fall in love. In fact, I I fought against it. But I couldn't deny what I felt for him. And I tried but I couldn't. It was the most powerful thing that I've ever felt in my life."
Later Claire is talking to Roger, who asks, "How is she?"
"Well, we're talking, at least."
"A fair improvement on shouting."
"Well, do do you know Gillian Edgars?"
"Not really. I know she gave Brianna that after Brianna's actually met her?"
"Yeah. Gillian's great. I mean, she's a little crazy on the whole Scottish nationalist thing, but I liked her."
"Do you know where she is now?"
"No. Why?"
"Are you sure? I need to find her. It's important."
"We we just ran into her at the pub. Um, she said she was leaving town tonight.
Something about going somewhere to 'further the cause.' Didn't sound like she would be back."
Claire puts two and two together, "She's going through the stones."
"We're not talking about this again."
"Gillian Edgars is Geillis Duncan from the witch trial. This is her.
She is the one who saved my life, and if I can stop her going through the stones, then perhaps I can do the same for her. Except I can't."
Roger asks, "Why not?"
"Because of you."
"Me? When you told me that you were a MacKenzie oh, I looked up your family history. Your seven-times great grandparents were William and Sara MacKenzie. They couldn't have children, so they were given one to raise as their own. That child belonged to Dougal MacKenzie and Geillis Duncan."
"So you're saying that my ancestors are actually the war chief that you spoke of and the witch?"
Bree chimes in, "Don't drag Roger into this."
"He has the same right as you to know who he is."
Roger observes, "If all this is true, then we have to stop her, don't we? If she's going back to be burned alive."
"You're kidding me."
Claire reasons, "But what if she never goes back, never meets Dougal MacKenzie, never has their child? What if you're never born?"
"How I can not be born? I'm here. I can't just evaporate."
"I don't know how this all works."
Bree is incredulous, "Roger, you're not buying this, are you?"
He replies, "I don't know but just to be on the safe side, I say we find her. Warn her, at least."
"Yes, I I could warn her not to draw attention to herself in the past."
"Do you see what's happening here? Roger, you are feeding her delusions."
"Brianna. Maybe I am. But this could be our chance to make her actually face it."
"Face what?"
"Gillian. See what Gillian says about all this."
"And what if Gillian is as crazy as she is? What if she really thinks that you can travel through solid stone to the past?"
"Well, then maybe we all get to watch her slam her head into a five-ton block of granite. Either way, this gives us a chance to put a stop to it all."
"Okay."
"I'll get my keys."
8:54 am
Jamie is leading Claire away and she asks, "Where are we going?"
He replies, "Red Jamie won't get far, but but you. I can save you, and I will."
"Well, we can leave together. Now. We could sail somewhere, anywhere."
"The country is roused. The ports are closed. I'm no afraid to die, Sassenach. A musket ball, maybe a blade. It's better than the hangman's noose or the wrath of the MacKenzies. I'm a dead man already, so I choose the battlefield."
"No. Then I will stay here with you."
"No, no, you won't."
"At the witch trial, if I'd have gone to the stake with Geillis, would you have left me?"
"Left you? I would have gone to the stake with you, to hell and beyond, if it had gone to that, but I wasn't carrying your child."
"You can't know that. It's much too soon. It..."
"Oh, Sassenach, you have not been a day late in your courses in in all the time since ye first took me to yer bed, but it's been two months now."
"You kept track? In the middle of this bloody war, - you kept track?"
"Aye. How long have you known?"
"Not long."
"This child this one is all that will be left of me ever. But now, we must go, so I beg you, Claire."
"No, no, I can't leave you."
"You heard me give my word to Rupert, and you made me a promise to spare Randall's life. You you promised me that if it came to this, ye'd go back through the stones, back home."
"But you are my home."
"And you are mine, but this home is lost. And now you and the bairn you must go to a safe place. To a man A man that could care for you both."
"No. No, I..."
"Claire. Claire, there's no time."
Claire, Brianna and Roger are approaching Craigh na Dun.
"That's her husband's car. It's this way. Come on."
"What is that smell? It smells like a fuckin' barbecue."
"Geillis, no!"
Roger says, "Where did she go?"
Brianna answers, "Oh, my God, she she went through the stone. She went right through it. (BUZZING) Can you hear that? That buzzing?"
"Aye. It's getting louder."
As they come upon a burning body, Brianna says, "Oh, my God."
Claire instructs, "Roger, go get help."
Jamie and Claire are approaching the stone circle, and Claire is abviously agitated, "How will I explain all this? How can I go back? To Frank."
Jamie replies, "All that I leave to you. Tell him what you will about me About us. It's likely he'll no want to hear, but if he does Tell him I'm grateful.
(SOMBER MUSIC) And tell him I trust him, and tell him I hate him to the very marrow of his bones."
"The buzzing. It's so loud. I'm not ready, Jamie. I'm not ready. Come with me. Come with me through the stones."
"Na, I can't."
"You could try. You hear it, right? The buzzing?"
"I don't hear anything, Claire. Even if I could go back through the stones (SOBS) (SIGHS) It's not my place. My destiny lies on Culloden Moor. But I'll find you. I promise. If I have to endure 200 years of purgatory 200 years without you, then that is my punishment that I have earned for my crimes, for I have lied, killed, stolen, betrayed And broken trust. But when I stand before God, I'll have one thing to say to weigh against all the rest. Lord you gave me a rare woman And God, I loved her well."
Jamie kisses her and pulls her down on the ground and they have a final few minutes together as husband and wife. Then reality returns and they hear cannon fire in the distance. Jamie says, "It has begun."
Claire pulls something out of her pocket and gives it to Jamie. "Our wedding gift from Hugh Munro. You keep it with you. Blood of my blood."
And he finishes, " And bone of my bone. As long as we both shall live. Come on. This belonged to my father. Give it to the bairn, when he's old enough."
"I will name him Brian, after your father."
He sort of dances her over to the largest stone in the center. She says, "I love you. I love you."
As he's guiding her hand closer to the stone, he says, "And I you. Good-bye, Claire." There are tears....
Brianna is dazed by what she's just seen. "It's true, then. Everything you said is true."
"Yes."
"Was that her husband?"
"I think so."
"And so someone has to die to travel through the stones. I mean, is that how it works?"
"Geillis believed that she needed a human sacrifice, but no one died when I went through."
"Wait. Is this the last place you saw my father?"
"Yes."
"I believe you. I don't understand it, but I believe you. No more lies. From now on, I only want the truth between you and me. All right?"
"Oh, you're so like your father. Yes. Only the truth from now on."
Roger comes back and approaches them, "I've called the police, anonymously, of course, and God knows how long it'll be before they get here."
"Roger. Tell her what you found."
"Some research the Reverend did at the request of your husband, your husband Frank. I'm not certain if he ever sent it on to Boston."
"Well, what does it say?"
"After the battle at Culloden, a few Jacobite soldiers, all seriously wounded, took refuge in an old house for two days, then they were all taken out to be shot, but one of them, a Fraser of the Master of Lovat's regiment, escaped execution."
"There were a lot of Frasers on the field that day."
"But only five Fraser officers, and four of them have their names memorialized on a plaque in the church in Beauly, so we know for certain that they were killed."
"Who was the fifth?"
Bree answers, "James Fraser. My father."
"Jamie. He didn't die at Culloden?"
"Well, he meant to die, but He didn't. He survived."
"He he survived. If that's true, then I have to go back."
The sun rises over the stones and The Chambers Brothers' "Time Has Come Today" plays as the credits start to roll.
"Time has come today Young hearts can go their way Can't put it off another day I don't care what others say They say we don't listen, anyway Time has come today Hey! Oh The rules have changed today - Hey! - I have no place to stay - Time! - Time has come today - Time! - Time has come today Time! Time! Time! "
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