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EXTERIOR GOVERNOR'S PALACE IN WILLIAMSBURG - DAY
Super:
WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA 1755
GEORGE WASHINGTON, dressed in a military uniform, rides up to the Governor's Palace and dismounts.
INTERIOR GOVERNOR'S PALACE - DAY
GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE is talking with Washington from behind his desk.
GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE
I understand your reluctance to risk the honor
you gained in the recent battle on the Monongahela,
Colonel Washington, but Virginia needs you
to organize the militia to protect the frontier.
WASHINGTON
You are raising a considerable number of troops,
and Speaker Robinson has tried to persuade me
to take the command you have offered to me,
but I wanted to appoint officers I know I can trust.
GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE
I realize that now,
but I had already appointed most of the captains
before I knew of your desire.
I am willing to let you select the field officers.
WASHINGTON
I am grateful the Assembly
voted me three hundred pounds
to cover my expenses of the last campaign,
and I am always ready to serve my country
if the terms are honorable and I am capable.
GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE
We believe you are the most capable officer we have.
WASHINGTON
Thank you for your confidence.
I have weighed the situation,
and if I could appoint
Adam Stephen and Andrew Lewis,
I would be willing to serve Virginia again.
GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE
Certainly.
You will receive thirty shillings a day
one hundred pounds annually for your table,
and a commission of two percent
on all funds you handle.
WASHINGTON
You have overcome my objections, sir.
I accept.
GOVERNOR DINWIDDIE
Very good!
I suggest you talk to Charles Dick
in Fredericksburg about supplies.
When can you leave?
WASHINGTON
Today, your Excellency.
EXT. STREET IN FREDERICKSBURG - MORNING
Washington is observing some of the soldiers carousing in the street intoxicated. Washington sees the man he is looking for, CHARLES DICK, walking towards him.
WASHINGTON
Are you Charles Dick?
CHARLES DICK
Well, it's the great hero of Braddock's defeat,
Colonel Washington.
What can I do for you?
WASHINGTON
Governor Dinwiddie told me
you would provide supplies.
CHARLES DICK
I might, and I might not.
I still have not been paid for the last contract.
WASHINGTON
Will you provide us with supplies?
CHARLES DICK
I am right now,
but I will not make a new contract
until I get the money from this one.
Look at these men;
they're supposed to be
under the command of Adam Stephen.
WASHINGTON
Do you know where they get the liquor?
CHARLES DICK
Private John Stewart sells it to most anyone.
WASHINGTON
This kind of behavior will stop.
INT. WASHINGTON'S HEADQUARTERS - EVENING
Washington is addressing his officers. Near him are LT. COL. ADAM STEPHEN and his aide-de-camp, CAPT. GEORGE MERCER.
WASHINGTON
As of now, Private Stewart is out of business.
Any man caught drunk is to receive one hundred lashes.
Twenty-five lashes will be applied for profanity,
five hundred for fighting with another solider,
and one thousand lashes or execution for desertion.
This outfit will have discipline.
Tomorrow I want to see every available man
working to complete the fort.
Any questions?
STEPHEN
What about the Indians on the frontier, sir?
WASHINGTON
I hope to procure the assistance of Andrew Montour
so that at least some of them will be on our side.
Major Andrew Lewis is out on patrol now.
Those who are ready
will proceed to Fort Cumberland
to begin their training in frontier warfare.
We have few men so far,
but we'll do what we can.
INT. WASHINGTON'S ROOM IN WINCHESTER - MORNING
Washington is seated at a table writing when an EXPRESS messenger barges into the room terrified.
EXPRESS
Colonel Washington,
the savages are within four miles!
I could hear the shrieks of people being murdered.
WASHINGTON
What?!
I sent out two scouts, and they haven't returned.
Do you know where the Indians are?
EXPRESS
No, sir,
but they have never been so close to Winchester.
WASHINGTON
Then I am going after them.
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF WINCHESTER - MORNING
Washington on horseback leads about forty troops marching out of Winchester. As he goes by, one WOMAN holds up a baby and shouts at Washington.
WOMAN WITH THE BABY
Sir, save us!
Save us from the savages!
EXT. WOODS NEAR A CLEARING - DAY
Washington and his men hear shots and approach the clearing where they find three white men drunk and firing their pistols at random.
WASHINGTON
So these are the savages.
Put them under arrest.
We'll march them back to Winchester.
Some of his men remove the pistols from the three men.
INT. TAVERN IN ALEXANDRIA - DAY
Washington and some other men are debating the upcoming election. WILLIAM PAYNE, gesturing with his walking stick is getting very angry at Washington. Payne is much smaller than Washington.
PAYNE
Washington wants you to vote for his friend Fairfax.
He should stay in Frederick where he belongs.
Just because this county bears the name Fairfax
is no reason to vote for him.
I say vote for both West and Ellzey
rather than vote for George William Fairfax.
WASHINGTON
Sir, Fairfax has every right to run in this county,
which is closer to his home.
I never said the name was a reason to vote for him.
PAYNE
Then are you calling me a liar, sir?!
WASHINGTON (angry)
Take it however you wish.
PAYNE
By God, I will not take it!
You take this!
Payne hits Washington with his stick and knocks him down. Now Washington is very angry, but he is restrained by his friends and controls his temper. DR. CRAIK is angry too, but he holds back Washington.
DR. CRAIK
George, we'll take you back to your room.
This can be settled another day
when cooler heads may prevail.
Captain George Mercer also escorts Washington out of the room. As he does so, he gives a parting word to Payne.
GEORGE MERCER
Sir, this is the Colonel of the Virginia Regiment.
This could easily mean a duel.
EXT. VACANT LOT IN ALEXANDRIA - MORNING
Washington approaches Payne in an open space, as Dr. Craik, George Mercer, and others await the outcome. The friends of Payne wait on the opposite side of the lot, as Washington and Payne meet.
PAYNE
Colonel Washington,
I received your note to meet you
at this time and place to settle this issue.
WASHINGTON
Yes, Mr. Payne, thank you for coming.
After thinking it over, I want to apologize to you.
I got angry yesterday over nothing.
Your reproof of me was due,
and no man is readier than I to acknowledge an error
when I am guilty of one.
I hope that we can shake hands as gentlemen
and forget that the unfortunate incident ever occurred.
PAYNE
Of course; it is most kind of you, Colonel.
The two men shake hands, and everyone gives a sigh of relief.
INT. ROBINSON HOME IN NEW YORK CITY - EVENING
Washington is sitting and talking with BEVERLEY ROBINSON, his wife SUSANNAH PHILIPSE ROBINSON, and her sister MARY PHILIPSE, who is 26 and attractive.
BEVERLEY ROBINSON
My brother, the speaker of the House of Burgesses,
wrote me that you were coming to New York,
but he did not explain why you are traveling.
I heard a rumor that you are to consult
with Governor Shirley about employing
Southern Indians as British allies.
WASHINGTON
I am on my way to Boston to see the acting
Commander-in-Chief of the British forces in America
about a question of rank and of honor.
BEVERLEY ROBINSON
I raised a company in Virginia
during King George's War
for the Canadian expedition,
but I saw no action.
WASHINGTON
There is a Captain from Maryland named Dagworthy,
who claims precedent,
because he has the King's commission.
SUSANNAH ROBINSON
But I thought you were a Colonel.
WASHINGTON
It is only a colonial rank,
and Captain Dagworthy
will not take orders from officers
who do not have a commission from the King
even though there are no British regulars with us now.
BEVERLEY ROBINSON
So you hope Governor Shirley will put it in order.
WASHINGTON
Yes.
MARY PHILIPSE
February is a cold time for a long journey.
WASHINGTON
Receiving such warm hospitality here compensates.
MARY PHILIPSE
Everyone is talking about an exhibit in the city
called "The Microcosm, or World in Miniature."
Perhaps you would accompany my sister and I
to the Exhibition Hall tomorrow afternoon.
They say a fire is kept going during the whole time.
WASHINGTON
I would be delighted to attend upon you.
SUSANNAH ROBINSON
How long will you be staying with my husband and I,
Colonel Washington?
WASHINGTON
Several days, if that is all right.
SUSANNAH ROBINSON
Of course.
WASHINGTON
I need to buy some horses,
and I thought I would visit a tailor.
MARY PHILIPSE
I can recommend a tailor for you, if you like.
WASHINGTON
That is most kind of you, Miss Philipse.
INT. PROVINCE HOUSE IN BOSTON - DAY
Washington stands before GOVERNOR SHIRLEY in his office. He hands Washington a paper.
GOVERNOR SHIRLEY
This letter indicates that Captain Dagworthy
has only provincial rank from the Maryland Governor,
and unless British troops are present,
he must obey you and all field officers.
I thought Governor Sharpe had settled this issue.
I have put that same Pennsylvania Governor
in charge of all troops raised in Pennsylvania,
Maryland, Virginia and South Carolina.
WASHINGTON
Thank you for the clarification, sir.
I will take my orders from Governor Sharpe.
INT. ROBINSON HOME IN NEW YORK CITY - EVENING
Washington is sitting on a couch and talking privately with Mary Philipse.
MARY PHILIPSE
That was kind of you to take me back
to see the miniatures a second time, George.
How long are you staying in New York this time?
WASHINGTON
I am sorry to say
I need to be leaving tomorrow.
I do have a command
and responsibilities in Virginia,
although now I find
I am to be under Governor Sharpe.
MARY PHILIPSE
Does that bother you to be under someone else?
WASHINGTON
I had hoped for greater honor and authority.
MARY PHILIPSE
Gracious, George! You are only what?
Twenty-five? Thirty?
WASHINGTON
I just turned twenty-four.
MARY PHILIPSE
My goodness, you are younger than I am.
WASHINGTON
Mary, I am not eloquent, as some men are,
but I have enjoyed these days together with you.
Virginia is distant and with the Indian war,
I know not when I could see you again.
Your sister married a Virginian,
and I thought that given the circumstances,
you might consider an engagement to me.
MARY PHILIPSE
Colonel Washington,
you are rather presumptuous.
I have only known you for a few days.
I assure you that there are several outstanding men
who have been courting me for months, even years.
WASHINGTON
I am sorry;
I know that I am not good at this.
MARY PHILIPSE
I will not say no absolutely,
but I will certainly not say yes at this point.
Maybe if we got to know each other better ...
WASHINGTON
I understand.
Please forgive me for my boldness,
and I thank you for your frankness.
INT. WASHINGTON'S QUARTERS IN WINCHESTER - DAY
Captain George Mercer looks in on Washington who is writing at his desk.
GEORGE MERCER
Sir, the Indian trader and interpreter, Richard Pearis,
is here with a report for you.
WASHINGTON
Send him in, Captain Mercer.
PEARIS comes in carrying a bag and a scalp.
PEARIS
Some Indians attacked us at North River
and killed one of my men, wounded two.
We fired back and forth for half an hour.
I think we hit several, and we killed their leader.
This scalp is from the French officer Sieur Douville.
WASHINGTON
How do you know it is his scalp?
PEARIS
Because I took this bag from around his neck;
these instructions order him
to burn the magazines at Conococheague.
He takes a paper out of the bag and shows it to Washington.
WASHINGTON
That area is thick with settlements.
PEARIS
Yes, sir.
WASHINGTON
I will forward the scalp to Governor Dinwiddie.
There is no reason why you should not get
the same reward we give to the Indians.
PEARIS
The whole party wants to share the reward, sir.
The Governor blamed me for not getting Cherokees
to help us Virginians fight last year.
WASHINGTON
Indians are the only match for Indians,
and without them we fight on unequal terms.
PEARIS
Yes, sir.
I would send out some scouting parties.
WASHINGTON
I will.
Thank you.
INT. WASHINGTON'S HEADQUARTERS IN WINCHESTER - DAY
A council of war is in session with Washington, COL. INNES, Captain George Mercer, CAPTAIN HENRY HARRISON, CAPTAIN WILLIAM PEACHEY, and a few other officers.
WASHINGTON
The Governor apparently still believes that
immoralities and drunkenness are being countenanced.
I will not stand for that.
Discipline is the soul of an army.
You are to punish strictly every offender,
whether it be gaming, drinking, swearing,
or any other kind of irregularity.
Is that understood?
Most of the officers murmur, "Yes, sir."
WASHINGTON (Cont'd)
I received a report from Lieutenant Stark
at Edwards Fort about a recent engagement
in which we lost two officers and fifteen men,
who were left in the hands of the enemy.
I am sorry to say, George,
the captain killed was John Mercer.
CAPT. HARRISON
He was a fine officer.
Our condolences.
How many of the enemy were killed?
WASHINGTON
They found only one dead Indian.
Two patrols were sent to reinforce them
after they were caught in the ambush,
but one sergeant led his men back to the fort.
He is to be executed for cowardice,
but I want to wait so that the drafted men
can see the punishment as a warning.
COL. INNES
How many French participated?
WASHINGTON
The Sergeant with the report said there were many,
because most of the assailants were mounted.
They surrounded the fort
and are preparing to storm it.
So, what do you recommend we do?
CAPT. HARRISON
The defenses at Fort Edwards are rather feeble.
Also it is less than twenty miles from here.
CAPT. PEACHEY
The militia of Frederick and the adjoining counties
must be raised immediately.
COL. INNES
As soon as we have a strong force,
we should take the offensive.
CAPT. GEORGE MERCER
I think we should retain the fifty recruits
who have assembled here to defend Winchester.
WASHINGTON
All right.
Captain Harrison,
you are to take command at Fort Edwards,
if you can reach the place.
Take ammunition and try to slip it past the enemy.
CAPT. HARRISON
That will take some courageous men.
WASHINGTON
See to it.
Captain Peachey, you are to proceed
with dispatch to notify the Governor
and request a muster of the militia.
I have no authority over them until they appear;
so far we have had more deserters than volunteers.
I will also send an express to Lord Fairfax,
asking him to call up the Frederick county militia.
INT. WASHINGTON'S HEADQUARTERS IN WINCHESTER - DAY
Washington is talking with his friend, Dr. Craik.
DR. CRAIK
Are you feeling better today, George?
WASHINGTON
I am still suffering from that dysentery.
Today there is to be a public hanging.
DR. CRAIK
I thought the Governor had to sign an order
before there could be any capital punishment.
WASHINGTON
Yes, but he has forwarded some blank orders
already signed to avoid unnecessary delay.
DR. CRAIK
Who is to be executed today?
WASHINGTON
Ignatius Edwards who deserted three times
and William Smith who is accounted
one of the greatest villains on the continent.
They were both tried by court martial
and condemned to death by shooting.
DR. CRAIK
Then why are they to be hanged?
WASHINGTON
We must make an example of them for others' sake.
Of the four hundred recruits received here,
already over a hundred have deserted.
DR. CRAIK
I heard you bought five hundred acres on Dogue Run.
WASHINGTON
Yes, and I have invested three hundred pounds
in additional slaves in the last few months.
DR. CRAIK
More hands for more work.
WASHINGTON
To produce more tobacco to ship to England.
I feel terrible.
Besides, I have a toothache.
INT. THE CUSTIS WHITE HOUSE - AFTERNOON
Washington is courting MARTHA CUSTIS.
WASHINGTON
Mrs. Custis, now that it has been six months
since your husband passed away,
I hope that you will consider my pleas.
MARTHA
What about this war you are involved in, George?
WASHINGTON
It was going badly under Lord Loudoun,
especially Montcalm's defeat of Fort William Henry.
MARTHA
What was it that Benjamin Franklin repeated
about the inactivity of General Loudoun,
that he is like Saint George on the signs,
always on horseback, but he never rides on?
WASHINGTON
Yes, I think with General Forbes in command now,
we will be able to take Fort Duquesne this year.
MARTHA
I will be charmed to entertain you at your leisure;
and maybe when your victory is achieved,
I will be ready to make another match.
WASHINGTON
This pleases me greatly.
INT. GENERAL FORBES' HEADQUARTERS IN RAYSTOWN - DAY
Washington has reported to GENERAL FORBES.
WASHINGTON
I apologize, General Forbes, sir,
about the shortage of flour at Fort Cumberland.
FORBES
The failure of the contractors to supply vehicles
has been attributed to the jealousy of the Virginians
because of the purchase of food in Pennsylvania.
I do not give a farthing where we get provision from,
provided that we are supplied adequately.
WASHINGTON
Yes, sir.
In regard to the road to Fort Duquesne,
I do believe that trying to go
from here at Raystown through Pennsylvania
rather than follow Braddock's road
is a big mistake that will slow us down fatally.
I think some have placed
the interests of Pennsylvania above the common good
rather than have the road
go through Virginia most of the way.
FORBES
I have had enough of this colonial rivalry.
You are ordered to return to Fort Cumberland
and from there bring your men here to Raystown.
The advance by General Braddock's road is dead.
I want no more controversy on that account.
WASHINGTON
Yes, sir.
I am glad to be participating
in the advance on Fort Duquesne.
FORBES
We shall get there before the end of the year.
By the way, Washington,
I heard that you were elected
to serve in the Virginia House of Burgesses.
Congratulations!
How much liquor did you buy
for the voters on election day?
WASHINGTON
It came to about one hundred sixty gallons, sir.
FORBES
I suppose that made the voters happy.
EXT. FAIRFAX HOME AT BELVOIR - DAY
Washington and SALLY FAIRFAX are walking in her garden.
WASHINGTON
Your letter said that you thought my anxiety lately
was due to the prospect of possessing Mrs. Custis.
Do I need to tell you I might have other reasons?
SALLY FAIRFAX
What might they be, George?
WASHINGTON
Excitement about our country's welfare
and the westward advance.
SALLY FAIRFAX
Is that truly it?
WASHINGTON
'Tis true, I profess myself a votary of love,
and I acknowledge it is a lady known to you.
SALLY FAIRFAX
What are you hinting at, George?
WASHINGTON
I could not say it in a letter
that your husband might read.
But you know that I have always loved you
for all the ten years we have known each other.
SALLY FAIRFAX
You are a good neighbor, George,
and I treasure your friendship,
but you must realize that I am a married woman
and happily so; at least I am content.
I am surprised at you, George.
How can you be declaring love to me
when you are engaged
to be married to someone else?
WASHINGTON
I have always been under the influence of your beauty
so much so that I thought one last chance---
SALLY FAIRFAX
Speak no more of it, George.
It is out of the question.
WASHINGTON
I must bow to circumstances beyond my control.
I believe that a Destiny controls our actions,
which cannot be resisted
by the strongest efforts of human nature.
We share a secret which the world will never know.
I feel great melancholy,
but I hope that happier times are ahead.
EXT. PENNSYLVANIA WOODS - AFTERNOON
Washington is leading five hundred troops through the woods. Suddenly muskets fire, and the opponents retreat. One French soldier has been killed, while the Virginians have captured two Indians and a white prisoner who turns out to be JOHNSON, a British subject.
JOHNSON
I speak English.
WASHINGTON
Who are you?
JOHNSON
Johnson. I was at Fort Duquesne.
WASHINGTON
Do you realize that you can be shot
for bearing arms against the King?
JOHNSON
Please, I can describe the French fortifications.
WASHINGTON
If what you tell us proves to be true,
your sentence may be commuted.
EXT. PENNSYLVANIA WOODS - DUSK
Again Washington's forces begin shooting at men in the woods who fire back. After a while, some of the wounded cry out in English.
WOUNDED SOLDIER
Help me; I bleed!
WASHINGTON
Cease firing!
They are English.
The firing eventually stops.
WASHINGTON (Shouting)
Who is there?
Captain George Mercer and some of his men come forward from behind the trees.
GEORGE MERCER
Captain Mercer, sir.
My God, it's Colonel Washington!
WASHINGTON
George Mercer! Are you all right?
GEORGE MERCER
I am, sir, but many of my men have been hit.
WASHINGTON
Everyone help tend to the wounded.
GEORGE MERCER
I am sorry, sir.
We could not tell who was there.
WASHINGTON
I know. Me neither.
This is terrible!
Washington surveys the damage of killed and wounded on both sides with George Mercer.
GEORGE MERCER
There must be at least a dozen killed
and many more than that wounded.
WASHINGTON
God help me, how could I be so stupid!?
INT. GENERAL FORBES' HEADQUARTERS - DAY
General Forbes is holding a conference with COLONEL BOUQUET, LT. COL. MONTGOMERY, and Washington.
GENERAL FORBES
Thanks to the information we received from Johnson
and two captured Indians examined separately,
we know that Fort Duquesne is very weak now.
This is our chance to take the fort
before most of the militias leave on December first.
Washington, do you think a fast-moving force
can make it over Chestnut Ridge
in the fifteen days we have left?
WASHINGTON
I believe so, sir,
but we'll need several dozen axes.
GENERAL FORBES
Select twenty-five hundred of the strongest men
and give them a blanket and knapsack.
Only provisions, ammunition, and light artillery
are to be conveyed on wheels.
Our forces are to be divided into three brigades,
under you, Colonel Bouquet and Colonel Montgomery.
Even though you are only a provincial officer,
Washington, I want you to command the third brigade.
Your job is to cut a road through the forest.
WASHINGTON
Yes, sir.
EXT. PENNSYLVANIA FOREST - DAY
Washington is overseeing the felling of trees for the building of the road.
GEORGE MERCER
Will we make it in the six days left, sir?
WASHINGTON
If the weather holds, I think so.
We have only about ten or fifteen miles to go.
An INDIAN SCOUT and an ARMY SCOUT approach Washington.
ARMY SCOUT
Brigadier Washington,
we have come from Fort Duquesne.
WASHINGTON
What did you find?
ARMY SCOUT
Smoke, sir.
The French put the fort to flames.
WASHINGTON
The French are gone?
ARMY SCOUT
Not a Frenchman left there, sir.
We saw some Indians on an island in the river,
but I believe they are ready to make peace with us.
They said the French were going to Illinois country.
WASHINGTON
Well, Captain Mercer,
an unexpected and happy ending
to our campaign this year!
CHARLES MERCER
Yes, sir.
INT. CUSTIS WHITE HOUSE - EVENING
The wedding of Washington to Martha Custis is being celebrated in her house with such people attending as Dr. Craik, COLONEL FAIRFAX, GEORGE FAIRFAX, and Sally Fairfax. Martha comes into the room and approaches George.
MARTHA
The children are asleep now.
WASHINGTON
Then may I dance again with my bride?
MARTHA
Most certainly.
Sally Fairfax speaks to her husband, father, and Dr. Craik, as they watch Washington and Martha dance.
SALLY FAIRFAX
I am glad that George has married at last.
GEORGE FAIRFAX
Yes, he has made an excellent match.
DR. CRAIK
Her late husband's estate is large,
but it may take years to settle the suit against it
through the slow machinations of Chancery.
He already has a ready-made family
with Martha's two children, Jackie and Patsy.
GEORGE FAIRFAX
Where are they going for their honeymoon?
DR. CRAIK
They will be staying here at the Custis White House,
but then they will reside at George's Mount Vernon.
COLONEL FAIRFAX
Now that Fort Duquesne has been destroyed,
and they are building Fort Pitt there,
George has retired from the army to be a planter.
SALLY FAIRFAX
Do not forget that he is in the House of Burgesses.
COLONEL FAIRFAX
He is a great military commander;
maybe he will do well in politics.
The dance ends, and Washington and Martha join them.
MARTHA
I need a rest now, George.
WASHINGTON
Then perhaps Sally will dance with me.
SALLY FAIRFAX
Of course.
GEORGE FAIRFAX
That man loves to dance.
INT. HOUSE OF BURGESSES - DAY
Washington enters the chamber and proceeds to his seat. A BURGESS MEMBER notices him, rises, and is recognized by SPEAKER ROBINSON.
BURGESS MEMBER
Mr. Speaker, I offer the following resolution:
that the thanks of the House
be given to George Washington, Esquire;
a member of this House,
late Colonel of the First Virginia Regiment,
for his faithful services to his Majesty,
and this Colony,
and for his brave and steady behavior,
from the first encroachments and hostilities
of the French and their Indians,
to his resignation,
after the happy reduction of Fort Duquesne.
SPEAKER ROBINSON
All those in favor will signify by saying "Aye."
Everyone in the house except Washington says or shouts "Aye."
SPEAKER ROBINSON (Cont'd.)
Opposed by saying, "Nay."
The House is silent.
SPEAKER ROBINSON (Cont'd.)
The resolution is unanimously carried.
Colonel Washington ...
Speaker Robinson leans forward in his chair toward Washington who stands up in embarrassment amid applause.
WASHINGTON
I, uh,...
SPEAKER ROBINSON
Sit down, Mr. Washington.
Your modesty is equal to your valor,
and that surpasses the power
of any language that I possess.
Washington sits down and is given another round of applause.
EXT. MOUNT VERNON PLANTATION - DAY
Washington and Dr. Craik are walking toward the slave quarters.
DR. CRAIK
Your overseer has a broken leg, George.
WASHINGTON
Several of my Negroes are down with smallpox.
I want them all well treated, Dr. Craik.
I have put them in the master's room.
INT. SLAVE QUARTERS AT MOUNT VERNON - DAY
Washington and Dr. Craik come in to where three Negroes are laid up.
DR. CRAIK
Aren't you afraid of getting smallpox, George?
WASHINGTON
I already had smallpox in the West Indies;
so I can do whatever is necessary, doctor.
I have also summoned a nurse for them.
DR. CRAIK
Good.
Dr. Craik begins to attend to them.
INT. HOUSE OF BURGESSES - DAY
Super:
VIRGINIA HOUSE OF BURGESSES, 1765
Only forty of the 116 Burgesses are present. Washington is absent, but a young THOMAS JEFFERSON is attending as a law clerk. GEORGE JOHNSTON has been recognized by the Speaker.
JOHNSTON
Mr. Speaker, I move that the House
go into a Committee of the Whole
to consider the steps necessary to be taken
in consequence of the resolutions
of the House of Commons of Great Britain
relative to the charging certain Stamp duties
in the Colonies and plantations in America.
PATRICK HENRY stands.
PATRICK HENRY
Mr. Speaker, I second the motion.
A small commotion occurs, as the members are surprised by the topic.
SPEAKER ROBINSON
All in favor ...
Some loud "Ayes" are heard.
SPEAKER ROBINSON (Cont'd.)
Opposed ...
A few "Nays" are heard. Robinson leaves the Speaker's chair and sits as committee chairman. Patrick Henry rises to speak.
SPEAKER ROBINSON (Cont'd.)
The Chair recognizes the new member,
Patrick Henry.
HENRY
Mr. Chairman,
whereas the honorable House of Commons
has of late drawn into question how far
the General Assembly of this colony has power
to enact laws for the laying of taxes and duties,
I move that the present General Assembly
come to the following resolves:
PEYTON RANDOLPH speaks aside to GEORGE WYTHE and EDMUND PENDLETON.
PEYTON RANDOLPH
The impudence of the young man!
PATRICK HENRY
Resolved, that the first adventurers and settlers
of this his Majesty's Colony brought with them
and transmitted to their posterity
all the privileges and franchises held, enjoyed,
and possessed by the people of Great Britain.
WYTHE
What does he think he is doing?
PATRICK HENRY
Resolved, that the taxation of the people by themselves
or by persons chosen by themselves to represent them,
who only can know what taxes people are able to bear
and the easiest mode of raising them,
and are equally affected by such taxes themselves,
is the distinguishing characteristic of British freedom,
without which the constitution cannot subsist.
PENDLETON
I wonder who wrote those for him.
PATRICK HENRY
Resolved, that his majesty's people of this colony
have uninterruptedly enjoyed the right
of being thus governed by their own Assembly
in regard to taxes and internal police,
and that the same has never been forfeited or given up,
but has been constantly recognized
by the kings and people of Great Britain.
WYTHE
What is he getting at?
PATRICK HENRY
Resolved, therefore,
that this General Assembly only
has the exclusive right and power to lay taxes
upon the inhabitants of this colony
and that every attempt to vest such power
in any person or persons whatsoever,
other than the General Assembly aforesaid,
has a manifest tendency to destroy
British as well as American freedom.
Peyton Randolph speaks first to his colleagues and then to the Chairman.
PEYTON RANDOLPH
This is outrageous.
Mr. Chairman.
SPEAKER ROBINSON
The Chair recognizes Peyton Randolph.
PEYTON RANDOLPH
Mr. Chairman, members of the committee,
the Stamp Act has already
passed the House of Commons.
The time for debate of that is past.
How dare this youth challenge the laws of England!
SPEAKER ROBINSON
Nevertheless the resolutions are in order
and will be debated by the Committee of the Whole.
DISSOLVE TO:
Patrick Henry is concluding a dynamic oration which has the chamber spellbound.
PATRICK HENRY
If we allow this tax, then we become slaves.
I ask you, is this a representational government,
or are we under the tyranny of a distant king?
Tarquin and Caesar each had his Brutus,
Charles the First his Cromwell,
and George the Third---
Patrick Henry is interrupted by Speaker Robinson and other shouts of "Treason!"
SPEAKER ROBINSON
Treason!
PATRICK HENRY
and ... and George the Third
may profit by their example.
If this be treason, make the most of it.
There is an uproar, as Speaker Robinson pounds the gavel.
SPEAKER ROBINSON
Order! Order in the House!
DISSOLVE TO:
Wythe talks to Peyton Randolph and Pendleton, as the Committee gets ready to vote on the last resolution.
WYTHE
Each resolution has passed by a narrower margin.
If we can stop the last one,
the rest are fairly harmless.
SPEAKER ROBINSON
All in favor of the last resolution will stand.
Twenty members stand and are counted.
SPEAKER ROBINSON (Cont'd.)
The Chairman counts twenty votes in favor.
All those opposed will now stand.
Nineteen members stand and are counted.
SPEAKER ROBINSON (Cont'd.)
The Chairman counts nineteen votes against.
The final resolution is passed,
and the Committee is adjourned.
As the House breaks up, Peyton Randolph says to his colleagues as he passes by Jefferson near the door:
PEYTON RANDOLPH
By God, I would have given five hundred guineas
for a single vote!
WYTHE
Why, it is young Thomas Jefferson.
What did you think of the session?
JEFFERSON
I am completely amazed, Mr. Wythe.
I thought Patrick Henry spoke as Homer wrote.
EXT. CAPITOL BUILDING IN WILLIAMSBURG - AFTERNOON
A small crowd of well-dressed people approach George Mercer as he is walking past the Capitol toward the coffee house. The crowd is being observed by GOVERNOR FARQUIER, Speaker Robinson, and several members of the Council from the porch of the coffee house.
SPEAKER ROBINSON
That is Colonel George Mercer there.
He is the Stamp Distributor for Virginia.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
I would say that that was a mob,
except that there are so many property owners.
Where are the stamps now?
SPEAKER ROBINSON
They are still on the ship, Governor.
Someone in the crowd shouts, "One and all!" The crowd takes up the call and begins to chant, "One and all! One and all!" They surround Mercer. Then PROTESTER #1 raises his arm to calm the crowd so that they can question Mercer.
PROTESTER #1
Colonel Mercer, you can see for yourself
that we do not want those stamps in Virginia.
We want to know:
are you going to distribute them?
Or will you stand with the people
and resign from your office as Stamp Distributor?
GEORGE MERCER
I cannot answer you now.
I must think about it.
The stamps are to be used on Friday morning at ten.
I will give you an answer then.
Mercer moves on and approaches the coffee house. The crowd follows, still in an angry mood.
PROTESTER #2
That is not good enough!
We want to know what your position will be
before the stamps are to be used.
Reaching the coffee house, Mercer is welcomed by the Governor and Speaker with handshakes and smiles. The crowd is disappointed by this behavior, but they stop below the stairs on the street. Mercer sits down on the porch with the Governor and his friends. A FRIEND of Mercer's comes up the steps to give him a message.
FRIEND
George, I have a message for you from the people.
GEORGE MERCER
What is it, William?
FRIEND
We urge you to reconsider
and declare yourself with us, the people.
GEORGE MERCER
I have already said that I will tell you Friday.
The crowd has crept closer, starting to ascend the steps.
PROTESTER #1
Friday is too late.
PROTESTER #2
The law goes into effect then.
PROTESTER #3
Promise to give us your answer tomorrow.
GEORGE MERCER
I stand by what I told you.
PROTESTER #4
Let us rush in!
The crowd lunges forward some, but there is still space between them and Mercer. The Governor and members of the council stand up at the top of the stairs between Mercer and the crowd.
PROTESTER #5
See the Governor; take care of him.
The leaders hesitate and then stop.
PROTESTER #2
Do not push us.
Back up a little.
The crowd retires a little.
PROTESTER #1
I will speak to him.
Protester #1 and the Friend approach Mercer for a conference.
FRIEND
George, the crowd is not satisfied.
PROTESTER #1
Please, could you give us your answer on Thursday.
GEORGE MERCER
Oh, all right.
Five o'clock Thursday afternoon.
PROTESTER #1 (to the crowd)
Thursday! We will know on Thursday.
They return to the crowd. Though mollified, nevertheless the people do not disperse. Finally the Governor walks to the top of the steps to check the situation.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
George, no one will harm you.
I believe it is safe for you to walk with me.
The Governor has walked over to Mercer, who decides to join him. They walk together down the steps. The crowd parts and lets them pass through them.
EXT. CAPITOL BUILDING IN WILLIAMSBURG - 5 O'CLOCK P.M.
George Mercer is reading a letter to a similar crowd.
GEORGE MERCER
The commission
so very disagreeable to my countrymen,
was obtained by the genteel demonstration
of their representatives in the General Assembly,
unasked for.
Thus, Gentlemen, am I circumstanced.
I should be glad to act now
in such a manner as would justify me
to my friends and countrymen here
and the authority which appointed me,
but the time you have all allotted me is so very short
that I have not yet been able to discover
that happy medium and therefore must entreat you
to be referred to my future conduct
with this assurance in the meantime
that I will not directly or indirectly
by my deputies or by myself
proceed further with the Act
until I receive further orders from England
and not then without the assent
of the General Assembly of this Colony
which no man can more ardently
or sincerely wish the prosperity of than myself.
Your sincere and humble servant,
Colonel George Mercer.
These last words are drowned out by a growing roar of the crowd in approval of his position. They all rush to congratulate him and soon lift him on their shoulders to carry him to the coffee house.
INT. GENERAL COURT IN WILLIAMSBURG - 10 A.M.
Governor Farquier, the ATTORNEY GENERAL, the CLERK, a panel of JUDGES, and George Mercer are alone in the courtroom.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
Make the proclamation.
CLERK
Here ye! Here ye!
All those having business
with the Governor and courts of Virginia draw near.
ATTORNEY GENERAL
As Attorney General I find there are no suits, sir.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
Proclaim it once more at the door.
The Clerk goes to the door and makes the same proclamation outside.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
Colonel Mercer, as Stamp Distributor of Virginia,
will you supply the court with the proper stamps
so that business might be carried on according to law.
GEORGE MERCER
No, sir. I cannot do that.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
Can we carry on any business without them?
CLERK
No, sir.
I would be exposing myself to such penalties
as I could not stand to bear.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
Might we legally adjourn for several months
until the tenth of April next?
FIRST JUDGE
Yes, sir.
SECOND JUDGE
Yes, sir.
THIRD JUDGE
There is nothing illegal about that.
Do you have any instructions on how to act
on such an occasion as this?
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
I do not.
THIRD JUDGE
Then we might as well adjourn.
GOVERNOR FARQUIER
So be it.
INT. MOUNT VERNON LIVING ROOM - DAY
Super:
MOUNT VERNON, 1769
A HOUSE SLAVE leads GEORGE MASON into the study where Washington is reading.
HOUSE SLAVE
Sir, George Mason is here to see you.
Mason and Washington shake hands and sit down.
WASHINGTON
I am glad to see you, sir.
Please sit down.
England had the good sense to repeal the Stamp Act,
but these Townshend Acts are equally bad.
I like your draft for a non-importation association.
MASON
I modeled it after those of the northern provinces.
WASHINGTON
Good, I am sure that Virginia loves liberty too.
We must make the necessary sacrifices,
if we want to maintain our rights.
MASON
Would you be willing
to offer this to the Burgesses?
WASHINGTON
If the opportunity presents itself, why not?
MASON
I knew I could count on you.
WASHINGTON
You know, now they are threatening
to take people to England to be tried for treason.
MASON
That is truly intolerable.
Where will all this end?
WASHINGTON
As a last resort, we may have to turn to arms.
MASON
I would hate to see it come to that.
WASHINGTON
I know what you mean.
INT. HOUSE OF BURGESSES - DAY
The House is in session. The Speaker of the House is now Peyton Randolph.
SPEAKER RANDOLPH
That petition is referred to the Committee
on Propositions and Grievances.
The CLERK OF THE HOUSE strides down the central aisle and stops.
CLERK OF THE HOUSE
Mr. Speaker, the Governor commands
the immediate attendance of your House
in the Council Chamber.
Peyton Randolph comes down from his chair and walks out of the chamber, followed by the other Burgesses, including Washington, Patrick Henry, and Jefferson.
INT. GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL CHAMBER - DAY
GOVERNOR BOTETOURT sits at the head of the table, as Peyton Randolph and the other Burgesses file into the room.
GOVERNOR BOTETOURT
Mr. Speaker and gentlemen of the House of Burgesses,
I have heard of your resolves
and augur ill of their effect.
You have made it my duty to dissolve you;
and you are dissolved accordingly.
INT. APOLLO ROOM OF THE RALEIGH TAVERN - DAY
Most of the Burgesses have gathered, but the meeting seems fairly formal, as Peyton Randolph presides. Washington raises his hand.
PEYTON RANDOLPH
Yes, Mr. Washington.
WASHINGTON
My friend George Mason has drawn up a project
for an association of non-importation.
We can pass resolutions and write pamphlets,
but as long as we buy British goods
and pay their taxes on them
we will always be dependent and subservient.
We need to stop importing British products.
Similar plans have been adopted by northern provinces,
and I believe that we should do the same.
PATRICK HENRY
I move that we form such an association
and choose a committee to prepare a plan
and that George Washington be on that committee.
PEYTON RANDOLPH
All in favor say "Aye."
A loud chorus of "Ayes" is heard.
PEYTON RANDOLPH (Cont'd.)
All opposed say "Nay."
Pause without "Nays."
PEYTON RANDOLPH (Cont'd.)
The Ayes have it.
This meeting is adjourned until tomorrow
so that the committee can draft its recommendations.
INT. GOVERNOR'S PALACE IN WILLIAMSBURG - MORNING
Washington is having breakfast with GOVERNOR DUNMORE.
GOVERNOR DUNMORE
How would the land be divided
among the veterans of 1754
as was promised to them at that time?
Explain it to me once again.
WASHINGTON
Each field officer will receive 15,000 acres,
9,000 for each captain and so on
down to the privates who get 400 acres each.
Governor Dunmore, we have been waiting
for almost twenty years to get this land.
GOVERNOR DUNMORE
All right, I think the Council will approve it.
INT. MOUNT VERNON DINING ROOM - EVENING
Washington and Martha are dining with a BRITISH GUEST.
BRITISH GUEST
Surely we have to stop these smugglers.
Gaspee Captain Dudingston was trying to do that.
But those lawless Sons of Liberty burned his ship.
WASHINGTON
What we object to, sir, is the threat
to take people from America to be tried in England.
We are setting up Committees of Correspondence
to communicate and defend against such threats.
BRITISH GUEST
If this rebellion goes too far,
I could march through America
with five thousand men.
WASHINGTON
Sir, given adequate notice of such an invasion,
I would engage to check them
with the Virginia riflemen alone.
INT. HOUSE OF BURGESSES - DAY
The House is in session, and Speaker Randolph is reading a resolution.
SPEAKER RANDOLPH
This House,
being deeply impressed with apprehension
of the great dangers to be derived to British America
from the hostile invasion of the city of Boston
in our Sister Colony of Massachusetts Bay,
whose commerce and harbor are,
on the first day of June next,
to be stopped by an armed force,
deem it highly necessary that
the said first day of June be set apart,
by the members of this House,
as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer,
devoutly to implore the divine interposition,
for averting the heavy calamity which threatens
destruction of our civil rights
and the evils of civil war;
to give us one heart and one mind firmly to oppose,
by all just and proper means,
every injury to American rights;
and that the minds of his Majesty and his Parliament,
may be inspired from above
with wisdom, moderation and justice,
to remove from the loyal people of America
all cause of danger from a continued pursuit
of measures pregnant with their ruin.
Washington speaks privately to Patrick Henry.
WASHINGTON
I will keep that fast.
INT. GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL CHAMBER - DAY
Once again the Burgesses have been called before the Governor.
GOVERNOR DUNMORE
Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen
of the House of Burgesses,
I have in my hand a paper
published by order of your House,
conceived in such terms as reflect highly upon
his Majesty and the Parliament of Great Britain;
which makes it necessary for me to dissolve you;
and you are dissolved accordingly.
INT. APOLLO ROOM IN RALEIGH'S TAVERN - DAY
Peyton Randolph is presiding, and RICHARD HENRY LEE is giving a speech to the Burgesses who have gathered for a meeting.
RICHARD HENRY LEE
Fellow Burgesses, I think this is the first time
that a proposal for prayer and fasting
was ever considered derogatory
to his Majesty and his Parliament.
My resolutions call for the non-use in Virginia
of East India Company tea so long as it is taxed.
Furthermore I say that the Boston Port Act
is a most violent and dangerous attempt
to destroy the constitutional liberty and rights
of all British America.
DISSOLVE TO:
At a table in the tavern during the meeting Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson are working on a document which Jefferson is writing down.
PATRICK HENRY
That an attack,
made on one of our Sister Colonies,
to compel submission to arbitrary taxes,
is an attack made on all British America,
and threatens ruin to the rights of all,
unless the united wisdom of the whole be applied.
DISSOLVE TO:
Jefferson repeats aloud the last part he is writing.
JEFFERSON
"... Unless the united wisdom
of the whole be applied."
We should recommend that
the Committee of Correspondence
communicate this.
PATRICK HENRY
Yes, that is a good idea, Mr. Jefferson,
and suggest that they appoint deputies
from the several Colonies of British America
to meet in a general Congress annually
at such a place and time as shall be convenient.
JEFFERSON
Yes, I will put that in the resolution.
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY
Washington and George Mason are riding along the road together.
WASHINGTON
Your resolutions are very timely.
GEORGE MASON
Do you think
the County Assembly will accept them?
WASHINGTON
I am sure they will.
INT. MOUNT VERNON DINING ROOM - DAY
Washington, Patrick Henry, George Mason, and EDMUND PENDLETON are just getting up from the table.
GEORGE MASON
If Boston is forced to pay for the tea destroyed,
Virginia should not import or use any British tea
until Boston is recompensed.
EDMUND PENDLETON
I believe that that Tea Party was a mistake,
and it lost our cause much support in England.
PATRICK HENRY
We are beyond that now, Mr. Pendleton.
EXT. MOUNT VERNON - DAY
As Washington, Patrick Henry and Edmund Pendleton mount their horses, George Mason says goodby.
GEORGE MASON
God bless you and be with you
and all the delegates in Philadelphia.
Imagine it: a Continental Congress!
WASHINGTON
Goodby George.
GEORGE MASON
Goodby.
Washington, Patrick Henry and Edmund Pendleton ride off.
INT. CARPENTER'S HALL IN PHILADELPHIA - DAY
Super:
PHILADELPHIA, SEPTEMBER 1774
Delegates from twelve colonies are meeting in secret sessions. Peyton Randolph is acting as Speaker of the Continental Congress. Also in the Virginia delegation are Richard Henry Lee, Patrick Henry, and Washington. From New York is JOHN JAY, and from Massachusetts are SAMUEL ADAMS and JOHN ADAMS. Patrick Henry is giving a speech.
PATRICK HENRY
Government is dissolved.
Fleets and armies and the present state of things
show that government is dissolved.
Where are your landmarks,
your boundaries of colonies?
We are in a state of nature, sir.
I did propose that scale should be laid down;
that part of North America
which was once Massachusetts Bay,
and that part which was once Virginia,
ought to be considered as having a weight.
But if the Congress decides
to give one vote to each colony
and I am overruled,
I am willing to submit.
I hope future ages will
quote our proceedings with applause.
It is one of the great duties
of the democratical part of the constitution
to keep itself pure.
It is known that some Colonies are more numerous
or more rich than others are.
I am for giving all the satisfaction in my power.
The distinctions between Virginians, Pennsylvanians,
New Yorkers and New Englanders are no more.
I am not a Virginian, but an American.
Patrick Henry sits down, and Speaker Randolph recognizes Edmund Pendleton.
SPEAKER RANDOLPH
Mr. Pendleton.
PENDLETON
Mr. Speaker, if the committee is unable
to ascertain the weight of the Colonies
by their numbers and property,
then they will report this.
SPEAKER RANDOLPH
Mr. Jay.
JOHN JAY
Mr. Speaker, we owe much to the virtue,
spirit and abilities of Virginia,
For my part, I should always be
for giving Virginia its full weight.
John Adams speaks privately to Samuel Adams.
JOHN ADAMS
Of course we cannot know the numbers.
We shall have to give each colony one vote,
in spite of what Mr. John Jay of New York says.
Speaker Randolph reads from a paper that has been handed to him.
SPEAKER RANDOLPH
An express has just arrived from the North,
which indicates that there are rumors abounding
that Boston is being bombarded by cannon
of the British garrison that is occupying the town.
This stirs up a general hubbub. Samuel Adams stands.
SPEAKER RANDOLPH
Order in the Congress.
Mr. Samuel Adams.
SAMUEL ADAMS
Mr. Speaker, I propose that we set aside
all religious differences we may have
and request a minister of the Established Church
to conduct prayers to begin our sessions,
which we have all agreed shall be in secret.
A few "Here, here"s are heard that indicate approval.
DISSOLVE TO:
REV. JACOB DUCHE stands in front to lead the morning prayer.
REV. DUCHE
The Psalter for the day is the Thirty-fifth Psalm.
"Plead thou my cause, O Lord,
with them that strive with me:
and fight thou against them that fight against me.
Lay hand upon the shield and buckler:
and stand up to help me.
Bring forth the spear,
and stop the way against them that persecute me:
say unto my soul, I am thy salvation."
Amen.
DISSOLVE TO:
Speaker Randolph reads from another message to the Congress.
SPEAKER RANDOLPH
It seems that the rumors
of the bombardment of Boston
are just as false as those we received before
about the seizure
of the colony's powder at Charlestown.
INT. HOTEL DINING ROOM IN PHILADELPHIA - EVENING
Washington, Patrick Henry, and Richard Henry Lee are dining with John Adams and Samuel Adams.
JOHN ADAMS
We must get those bloody British out of Boston.
I have been much impressed by your oratory,
Mr. Henry, and also yours, Mr. Lee.
I fear Massachusetts has no speakers as great.
RICHARD HENRY LEE
On the contrary, the names of Samuel Adams
and John Adams are well known to us.
PATRICK HENRY
The whole Congress was moved by the Suffolk resolves
that were so speedily brought to us by Mr. Paul Revere.
SAMUEL ADAMS
We are gratified that the Congress has adopted them.
The Boston Port Bill is a scourge we cannot bear.
RICHARD HENRY LEE
We were delighted to hear
of your "Tea Party" last year.
JOHN ADAMS
I heard a rumor that in your House of Burgesses
Mr. Washington,
when he heard of the Boston Port Bill,
offered to raise and arm and lead
one thousand men himself at his own expense
for the defense of your colony,
were there need of it,
and that his fortune is equal to such an undertaking.
WASHINGTON
My anger may occasionally get the best of me,
but I assure you, gentlemen,
that I never made such an arrogant statement,
and certainly not in the House of Burgesses.
JOHN ADAMS
Tell me, what do you Virginians think of
the Galloway plan for a Grand Council
like the British House of Commons?
PATRICK HENRY
I oppose it, sir;
for I suspect that it is a scheme to mollify us,
and keep us still under British Parliament.
RICHARD HENRY LEE
I think we should lay it aside
and proceed to those resolutions
which will have some effect on British policies,
namely: non-importation of all British products,
non-consumption of anything that is taxed,
and non-exportation starting some time next year.
SAMUEL ADAMS
What do you think, Mr. Washington?
WASHINGTON
I had my doubts about the destruction of property
in your Boston Tea Party,
but I am much in agreement
with the boycott measures.
INT. SMALL CHURCH IN RICHMOND, VIRGINIA - DAY
A Convention of Delegates from Virginia counties, including Washington, Patrick Henry and Richard Henry Lee, is once again being presided over by Peyton Randolph, who is reading a resolution. Early portions of the resolution are received with a few chuckles and laughter because of the irony.
PRESIDENT RANDOLPH
"Whereas a well regulated militia,
composed of gentleman freeholders and other freemen,
is the natural strength and only stable security
of a free government,
and that such militia
will relieve our mother country
from any expense in our protection and defense,
will obviate the pretense of a necessity
for taxing us on that account,
and render it unnecessary
to keep standing armies among us---
ever dangerous to liberty;
therefore the establishment of such a militia
is at this time peculiarly necessary,
by the state of our laws
for the protection and defense of the country,
some of which have already expired,
and others shortly will do so;
and that the known remissness of government,
in calling us together in a legislative capacity,
renders it too insecure,
in this time of danger and distress,
to rely that opportunity will be given
of renewing them in the General Assembly,
or making any provision to secure
our inestimable rights and liberties
from those further violations
with which they are threatened.
Resolved, therefore, that this Colony
be immediately put in a posture of defense;
and that a committee prepare a plan
for the embodying, arming and disciplining
such a number of men
as may be sufficient for that purpose."
Having been read, the resolution is open to debate.
Mr. Patrick Henry.
Having stood and been recognized, Patrick Henry makes the following speech:
PATRICK HENRY
Mr. President and Delegates of Virginia.
The question before the house
is one of awful moment to this country.
For my own part I consider it as nothing less
than a question of freedom or slavery.
Mr. President, it is natural to man
to indulge in the illusions of hope.
We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth.
Is this the part of wise men,
engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty?
Whatever anguish of spirit it may cost,
I am willing to know the whole truth;
to know the worst, and to provide for it.
I wish to know what there has been
in the conduct of the British ministry,
for the last ten years,
to justify these hopes.
Is it that insidious smile
with which our petition has been lately received?
Trust it not, sir;
be not betrayed with a kiss.
Ask yourselves
how this gracious reception of our petition
comports with those warlike preparations
which cover our waters and darken our land.
Are fleets and armies necessary
to a work of love and reconciliation?
These are implements of war and subjugation,---
the last argument to which kings resort.
I ask, sir, what means this martial array,
if its purpose be not to force us to submission?
Can there be any other possible motive for it?
Has Great Britain any enemy
in this quarter of the world,
to call for this accumulation of navies and armies?
No, sir, she has none.
They are meant for us:
they can be meant for no other.
And what have we to oppose to them?
Shall we try argument?
Sir, we have been trying that for ten years.
Let us not deceive ourselves any longer.
We have done everything that could be done
to avert the storm which is now coming on.
Our petitions have been slighted;
our remonstrances have produced violence and insult;
our supplications have been disregarded;
and we have been spurned with contempt
from the foot of the throne.
There is no longer any room for hope.
If we wish to be free;
if we mean to preserve those inestimable privileges
for which we have been so long contending;
if we mean not basely to abandon the noble struggle
in which we have been so long engaged,
and which we have pledged ourselves never to abandon
until the glorious object of our contest is attained,
we must fight!
I repeat, sir, we must fight!
An appeal to arms, and to the God of hosts,
is all that is left us.
Some tell us that we are weak,---
unable to cope with so formidable an adversary.
But when shall we be stronger?
Will it be when we are totally disarmed
and a British guard is stationed in every house?
Shall we gather strength by irresolution
and by hugging the delusive phantom of hope,
until our enemies have bound us hand and foot?
Sir, we are not weak, if we make a proper use
of those means which the God of nature
hath placed in our power.
Three million people armed
in the holy cause of liberty
are invincible by any force
which our enemy can send against us.
Besides, we shall not fight our battles alone.
There is a just God
who presides over the destinies of nations,
and who will raise up friends
to fight our battles for us.
The battle is not to the strong alone;
it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave.
Besides, we have no elections.
Even if we were base enough to desire it,
it is now too late to retire from the contest.
There is no retreat but in submission and slavery.
Our chains are forged.
Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston.
The war is inevitable. And let it come!
I repeat it, sir, let it come!
Gentlemen may cry, "Peace, peace,"
but there is no peace.
The war is actually begun.
The next gale that sweeps from the north
will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms.
Our brethren are already in the field.
Why stand we here idle?
What is it that gentlemen wish?
What would they have?
Is life so dear, or peace so sweet,
as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?
Forbid it, Almighty God!
I know not what course others may take,
but as for me,
give me liberty,
or give me death!
INT. GOVERNOR'S PALACE IN WILLIAMSBURG - DAY
Peyton Randolph and some others have entered the office of GOVERNOR DUNMORE.
PEYTON RANDOLPH
On behalf of the Common Hall of the city,
we demand to know why you, Governor Dunmore,
have removed the gunpowder from Williamsburg.
Also we want to know when it will be returned.
GOVERNOR DUNMORE
I received reports of a slave insurrection
and therefore placed the powder aboard ship,
whence it could be offloaded in a half an hour,
if it is needed to combat the uprising.
PEYTON RANDOLPH
Then why did you have it sent off at night?
GOVERNOR DUNMORE
I thought it prudent to avoid excitement.
I am surprised to hear that people
have taken up arms in complaint of this.
Do you think I will give powder to such men?
PEYTON RANDOLPH
That is the most absurd explanation I ever heard.
Peyton Randolph leads the group out of the room.
INT. PENNSYLVANIA STATE HOUSE - DAY
JOHN HANCOCK is acting as President of the Continental Congress. Washington is wearing a new military uniform of red and blue.
PRESIDENT HANCOCK
Having accepted the committee's recommendations
for the defense of New York,
it is the will of the Congress that Mr. Washington
also chair a committee to consider
ways and means to supply these Colonies
with ammunition and military stores
and to report immediately.
The Congress is in recess.
As the Congress breaks up, Richard Henry Lee speaks privately to Washington.
RICHARD HENRY LEE
Now that John Hancock
has replaced Peyton Randolph
as President of the Congress,
I suspect that he expects to be named
commander of the army as well.
INT. PENNSYLVANIA STATE HOUSE - MORNING
The Congress is again in session. President Hancock recognizes John Adams.
PRESIDENT HANCOCK
Mr. John Adams.
JOHN ADAMS
Mr. President and members of the Congress.
Since the shots heard around the world
were fired at Lexington and Concord,
this Congress has done little to support or save
the New England army in front of Boston.
There is great danger in procrastination.
If that force dissolves through despair
and lack of supplies and ammunition,
the organization of a new army
would be extremely difficult.
And while a new force is being collected,
the British, no longer under siege,
could march out of Boston
and spread desolation as far as they can go.
The Colonial forces already in service need evidence
that all of British North America is behind them.
I propose that Congress adopt the army at Cambridge
and appoint a General to command them
who represents this Congress and the continent.
I realize that the selection of this individual
is a question of the largest difficulty.
Yet, for my part, I have no hesitation in declaring
that for that important command
I have one gentleman in mind who is among us
and very well known to all of us,
Hearing these words, John Hancock is very pleased and smiles, hoping that it is him. Washington, however, is embarrassed and feels some dread that he is to be nominated.
JOHN ADAMS (Cont'd.)
a gentleman from Virginia,
The expression on John Hancock's face suddenly changes to deep disappointment, while Washington becomes further embarrassed.
JOHN ADAMS (Cont'd.)
whose skill and experience as an officer,
whose independent fortune, great talents,
and excellent universal character
will command the approbation of all America
and will unite the cordial exertions
of all the Colonies better than any other person,
the chairman of the committee that is even now
preparing regulations for the army,
Mr. George Washington.
Washington, who is seated near the door, suddenly gets up and leaves the room. John Adams sits down, and Samuel Adams stands up. With some hope that Samuel Adams may take his part, President Hancock recognizes him.
PRESIDENT HANCOCK
Mr. Samuel Adams.
SAMUEL ADAMS
Yes, Mr. President.
I second the nomination.
John Hancock is even more disappointed, almost mortified.
DISSOLVE TO:
The Congress is again in session, and Washington takes out a paper in order to read a speech.
WASHINGTON
Mr. President: Though I am truly sensible
of the high honor done me in this appointment,
yet I feel great distress from a consciousness
that my abilities and military experience may not
be equal to the extensive and important trust.
However, as the Congress desires,
I will enter upon the momentous duty
and exert every power I possess in their service
for the support of the glorious cause.
I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks
for this distinguished testimony of their approbation.
But lest some unlucky event should happen
unfavorable to my reputation,
I beg it may be remembered
by every gentleman in the room,
that I this day declare with the utmost sincerity,
I do not think myself equal
to the command I am honored with.
As to pay, sir,
I beg leave to assure the Congress
that as no pecuniary consideration
could have tempted me
to have accepted this arduous employment
at the expense of my domestic ease and happiness,
I do not wish to make any profit from it.
I will keep an exact account of my expenses;
those I doubt not they will discharge,
and that is all I desire.
Washington sits down amid moderate applause. Washington then speaks privately to Patrick Henry.
WASHINGTON (Cont'd.)
Remember, Mr. Henry, what I now tell you:
from the day I enter upon
the command of the American armies,
I date my fall and the ruin of my reputation.
--end of the fourth episode in a series on GEORGE WASHINGTON--
This screenplay has been published in the book GEORGE WASHINGTON: A Dramatic Series. For ordering information, please click here.
Wilderness Diplomacy
A War Breaks Out
General Braddock's Defeat
Virginia Patriot
Fight for Independence
Maintaining an Army
On to Victory
The Constitution
First President
Second Term