THE MYSTERIOUS CAVALIER A Screenplay by FRANK J. MORLOCK (c) FADE IN: I EXT. THE SQUARE BEFORE THE LOUVRE DAY MOVING VOICE OVER A fine morning in April 164 1. A young man in military attire crosses the square and approaches the Guard room. The young man wears the uniform of the Flemish campaign; a doublet with a leather shoulder-belt and long boots which reach above the knees and a hat with feathers turned up at the brim. The young man salutes the guard. YOUNG MAN Greetings, comrade! Can you tell me if Colonel de Guitaut is in the palace? The Guardsman, magnificently dressed, looks at the Young Man and makes no reply whatsoever. YOUNG MAN Well, Sir! Again I ask you if I may see Colonel de Guitaut? GUARDSMAN (turning away) Speak to the officer in charge. CUT TO: 2 EXT. COURTYARD OF LOUVRE DAY The young man walks into a Court yard of the Louvre where a carriage with horses is standing. An officer in gold lace passes by. YOUNG MAN I wish to see Colonel de Guitaut. OFFICER The King is at Chantilly, and the Queen is making a retreat at the convent of the Carmelites. It would be rather surprising if Colonel de Guitaut were in the Louvre, where there's nothing for him to do. YOUNG MAN I cannot be satisfied with such an ambiguous answer. I beg you Sir, to announce to Colonel de Guitaut, or if that is impossible, to his nephew Count de Comminges - That I am waiting here, and desire to see him at once. My mission is urgent. The young man offers a letter to the officer. The officer takes it and disappears up a stairway without a further word. As the officer goes up a lady comes down the stairway. She goes to the carriage and the horses start without warning. The girl slips, but the young man catches her as she falls. The lady smiles, curtsies and gets into the carriage which the driver whips up. The carriage leaves. GUARDSMAN Ah ha, my friend. It's not every young man who is so fortunate in his first moments at court. YOUNG MAN Who is the young lady? GUARDSMAN She's one of the Queen's attendants. YOUNG MAN Quite a beauty. The officer returns with Count de Comminges. COMMINGES Is he the messenger? OFFICER Yes, Count. COMMINGES (to young man) You ask for Colonel de Guitaut? YOUNG MAN Yes, sir, I do. COMMINGES Did you write this letter? The young man nods. COMMINGES Colonel de Guitaut is not in the Louvre. He was not to come at all today, but I will deliver your message to him at once. I do not doubt that having read it, he will hasten to see you. Please return this evening at five o'clock. YOUNG MAN Without fail. (quietly) Should I bring - 'The thing' with me? COMMINGES (hesitating) No - I think better to wait until after you see Colonel de Guitaut. He will tell you what to do with the thing. - You have spoken to no one about this, I trust? YOUNGMAN No one at all besides yourself COMMINGES Splendid! Be discreet. Above all, be on your guard. Until this evening Comminges extends his hand YOUNGMAN Until this evening. The young man salutes and leaves. CUT TO: 3 EXT. CROWDED STREET DAY The young man is walking through the crowded Parisian streets, filled with wenches, hawkers monte-banks etc. BERGERAC, with his double venetian collar is, nose in a book, walking through the crowd where he bumps into the young man. Cyrano pushes the obstacle aside without taking his nose out of his book. YOUNG MAN (furiously) You there! Just a minute! If you think you can Cyrano, finally awakened from his scholarly revery takes his nose out of his book. When the young man sees Cyrano's nose - he falters in amazement. CYRANO (annoyed) Sir, did I perchance bump into you? YOUNG MAN Well, I do remember feeling something. (chuckling) CYRANO (bowing) I beg you to accept my apologies. YOUNG MAN That's quite unnecessary. And I withdraw my ill timed expression. CYRANO Indeed! What did you say? YOUNG MAN Nothing at all - just some stupid remark. CYRANO That's good. Cyrano passes on - nose back in book. The young man watches him go off with a wry smile. At this moment the same carriage seen at the Louvre with the pretty lady in occupancy pulls by, and the young man has barely time to jump out of the way of the horses. CUT TO: 4 EXT. SQUARE DAY The young man continues his walk through Paris and comes to a platform with several actors on it surrounded by a large crowd. ACTOR (to someone at the back) You, Sir Cavalier, step back please - I can't see Notre Dame. The crowd including the young man look toward the man (Cyrano) at the back, Cyrano at first does not realize he is the target of the Buffoon. ACTOR/CLOWN My dear sir, if you cannot move would you mind taking away that thing which obstructs my vision of the sky? CYRANO (quietly) What thing? ACTOR/CLOWN Why - that growth on your face; that - well a'hem - that CYRANO (quietly) Nose! ACTOR/CLOWN Ah, yes - The word escaped me. The crowd laughs. CYRANO I can't get it off. It's a family heirloom. I shall keep it. The crowd laughs. CLOWN (turning to Brioche) My master, you who are the font of all wisdom, you who know the Latin names for 'spaniel' and 'rabbit'; you who understand the logic of the toadstool and the mushrooms - Can you tell me what is the noblest part of the human body? BRIOCHE Ah, I see you are about to favor us with one of your vile witticisms. CLOWN For once you are wrong. Your fears are without foundation. (pointing to the monkey) Look at my brother here - Doesn't he look exactly like you? Brioche draws back in horror. CLOWN Like you, he has a tongue, eyes, ears and two more hands than you've got. Why he even has a tail. The mob laughs. CLOWN Well then do you know what this monkey does not have? The clown stares at Cyrano. CLOWN What he lacks - well, I'll tell you - it's a CYRANO Nose. CLOWN We must accept this gentleman's answer. He has extraordinary good reasons for knowing. The crowd laughs. CLOWN Listen now, my masters, to this reasoning. If we agree that the noblest part of the body is Cyrano begins pushing through the crowd toward the platform. CLOWN Is what the gentleman has just said it is, then ergo it follows the - the noblest man is - the one who has Cyrano is getting very close to the platform and the clown watching him is getting nervous CLOWN The one who has - who has the longest. CYRANO (at the platform) The longest - what? No one is laughing now. CYRANO (coolly) The longest what? Sensing that the crowd is with him, the clown regains his courage. CLOWN The longest nose. Cyrano waits no longer and hurls the clown off the stage. The crowd roars angrily. Cyrano is on the platform at once. The monkey is hurled into the river and Brioche is kicked off the platform. Satisfied, Cyrano non-chalantly is planning to return to the crowd, but the crowd is angry and a half dozen men draw their swords. Cyrano draws his rapier and at first the crowd draws back, but reinforcements come in. VOICE OVER Now every rowdy and bully scenting a fight rushed to the scene. And the newcomers were more infuriated than the others, although they had no idea what the fight was about. Cyrano was surrounded. Suddenly, the young man draws his sword and enters the fray. YOUNGMAN Carry on, Sir, I am with you. Can you hold on? CYRANO Now that we are two, we shall be too many for them. YOUNG MAN Let's charge them. The mob begins to give way. - A patrol of archers, (police), arrives. YOUNG MAN There's the Guard. We must bolt. CYRANO Must we leave the field to these rascals? The young man pulls Cyrano away and they run off pursued by the mob and the guard. CUT TO: 5 EXT. SIDE STREET DAY Cyrano and the young man, pursued by the mob dodge into a side street. YOUNGMAN In here - We're safe. 10 (CONTINUED) CYRANO Bah! It's a blind alley. No chance for escape. (testing his blade) All the better. We'll have a really interesting fight yet. The mob surges in and Cyrano and his companion fight close together, retreating together toward a solid, closed door. Backs to the door they continue to resist. Suddenly the door opens and Cyrano and the young man fall through. The door shuts. CUT TO: 6 INT. DARK ROOM DAY The room is unlit. The mob and the guard bang at the door. YOUNGMAN Where have we got to? Two pretty ladies appear with candles. Cyrano and the young Cavalier doff their hats. The ladies put their fingers to their lips. The banging on the door continues. One of the ladies is the lady who got into the carriage. The ladies remove their scarves and blindfold the gentlemen. They then lead the gentlemen out. CUT TO: 7 EXT. A COURT YARD DAY Cyrano and the young man emerge from a door way into a quiet court yard with a heavy iron gate. YOUNG MAN Where are we? (CONTINUED) (CONTINUED) CYRANO It's the hotel de Nevers. Sir, you have, perhaps, just saved my life. YOUNG MAN Nonsense. You would have got yourself off without my help. CYRANO I shall never forget what you have done for me. Your hand! From now on we shall stick together - Through life and death. YOUNGMAN So be it! But meanwhile it's not safe for us to remain so near the scene of our exploits. CYRANO You're right. Let's find an out of the way tavern. CUT TO: 8 INT. TAVERN DAY Cyrano and the young man are seated in chairs in the back garden of a tavern. They are sharing a bottle of wine. CYRANO You are a soldier? YOUNG MAN A Sergeant in Flanders regiment. CYRANO You look familiar. Weren't you the person I so stupidly bumped into this morning? (CONTINUED) 12 (CONTINUED) YOUNG MAN Yes. You seemed so engrossed CYRANO I was reading the first pages of an admirable book. YOUNG MAN It must indeed be good to occupy your attention so. What is the title? CYRANO A Voyage to the Countries of the moon. YOUNGMAN I don't know it. CYRANO It's just been published. YOUNG MAN Indeed! Who is the author? CYRANO (pouring some wine) Why, I am. YOUNG MAN Why, I'll drink to that. (They both drink) YOUNG MAN And so you are a swordsman and a poet. CYRANO Oh, I am also a mathematician, physician, philosopher, pupil of Gassendi - and, in spare (MORE) (CONTINUED) 13 (CONTINUED) CYRANO (cont'd) moments, cadet in the guard. - Doubtless, you have just arrived in Paris? YOUNG MAN Last night. CYRANO To seek your fortune? YOUNG MAN (considering) Yes. CYRANO Then we'll seek it together. You seek it in arms and I'll be satisfied to win a garland as a poet. YOUNGMAN For a poet, you wield a devilish rapier. CYRANO Bah! Anyone can do that. Tell me, are you a Gascon? YOUNG MAN Heavens no. CYRANO Too bad. YOUNG MAN Does one have to come from there? CYRANO No - but it's a distinct advantage. - But don't (MORE) (CONTINUED) 14 (CONTINUED) CYRANO (cont'd) worry, in my company you'll soon become one. You see I take it for granted we won't separate. The young man seems uncomfortable. CYRANO Is anything wrong? Is this proposal not to your Eking? YOUNGMAN I like it from the bottom of my heart. They drink again. CYRANO Do you have enough money? YOUNGMAN Just enough. CYRANO I'm rich enough for two, if it comes to that. Tonight, I will introduce you to some people who may be able to help you. YOUNGMAN Don't you think you ought to know my name first. CYRANO Here we've been friends for life for an hour and don't know each other's name, ha - I'll drink to that. They drink. (CONTINUED) 15 (CONTINUED) YOUNG MAN I am the Chevalier Tancred. CYRANO Tancred - what? YOUNG MAN Just Tancred. CYRANO Splendid. And my name is Savinien de Cyrano Bergerac. TANCRED You are a nobleman CYRANO Yes TANCRED And I a poor soldier. CYRANO Bah TANCRED In fact, I have no family name. CYRANO You have a hero's name. TANCRED I'm sure it would provide amusement to your friends. CYRANO I should like to see anyone take exception to a name that suffices for me. (CONTINUED) 16 (CONTINUED) TANCRED I think we must part CYRANO Bah! I again offer you my friendship. Are you going to scorn it? (his hand goes to his sword) Tancred laughs and embraces Cyrano. CYRANO Thank heavens. I should have been broken hearted to hurt you. CUT TO: 9 EXT. PARIS STREET DAY Cyrano and Tancred are making their way down a street. TANCRED So you see, I know nothing about myself except that I have a star tattooed over my heart and that I was raised by a soldier in Flanders. Now we must part. I have an appointment at five o'clock and have just time enough to make it. The friends embrace and Tancred. walks quickly off. CUT TO: 10 EXT. PARIS STREET DARK Tancred is pursuing his way when the coach, recognizably the coach he had seen at the Louvre (CONTINUED) 17 (CONTINUED) rumbles past him. The carriage is suddenly stopped by a group of men. One man holds the horses by the bridle and several other men appear. The footmen at first resist then run off. A man enters the carriage and - The lady screams. Tancred runs forward and yanks the man who had replaced the coachman off the carriage. Then he hurls himself on the other attackers who, though surprised, hold their ground firmly. VOICE What a madman! Tancred attacks furiously again and again - suddenly the men run off. Tancred goes toward the carriage. MAN'S VOICE (inside carriage) Who's there - ? Who dares - ? Tancred opens one door and the man inside leaves by the other. LADY Thank you. MAN (outside now) Hola! Fontailles, Noirmoutier, La Riviere, come back, you dogs. Slowly the retainers return. MAN What the devil! Are you going to let yourselves be beaten by such a monkey? FONTAILLES That monkey has almost beaten me to death. Another bout and I may lose my life - which would be very upsetting since it's the only one I have. (CONTINUED) 18 (CONTINUED) NOIRMOUTIER I've already got one wound. I don't want another. LA RIVIERE I am a man of the pen not the sword. MAN Very well. I find that I am alone. (going toward Tancred) You seem to be unaware that I am TANCRED I have no particular desire to know NOIRMOUTIER (to Tancred) Be careful! MAN You will pay dearly for those words. TANCRED Bah! Draw your sword, I am ready. LA RIVIERE Put up your sword and go away. That's the wisest thing for you. TANCRED Mind your own business. The man draws nearer - opens his cloak and pulls up his hat. MAN Do you recognize me? (CONTINUED) 19 (CONTINUED) TANCRED (shaking his head) No. MAN Well, this is amusing. This pumpkin is the only man in France who doesn't know me. I am the Duke of Orleans! TANCRED (furiously) You lie! La Riviere from his perch on a lamp post begins to scold Tancred like a squirrel. LA RIVIERE You fool! This is the King's brother. Oh, you're in trouble, you're going to get it. TANCRED (furiously) Get down clown! Get down at once or I'll come up after you and stick my sword up your arse! Tancred furiously goes after La Riviere who terrified manages to dodge away without apparent harm. All the spectators including the Duke and the Lady are laughing. DUKE (laughing) Come, this is amusing. La Riviere, you look like a clown! I've never laughed so much. The Duke waives off his followers and departs down an alleyway, La Riviere scurries after them. (CONTINUED) 20 (CONTINUED) LADY Thank you very much, sir. I was afraid the Duke would harm you - but he's decided to make a joke of it. TANCRED (still angry) Well, I was in no mood to joke. Are you not the young lady I met this morning at the Louvre? LADY I believe I am, sir. Church bells ring out the hour. TANCRED Damnation, I've lost my audience. LADY Where were you going? TANCRED To the Louvre. LADY Then come with me for that is my direction. Who waits you there? TANCRED The captain of the Queens Guards. LADY Monsieur de Guitaut? TANCRED Yes. (CONTINUED) 21 (CONTINUED) LADY He is one of my friends. I shall ask him to excuse your absence. Get in, please. TANCRED I can't possibly presume to ride with you. LADY Do you think I can permit you to ride like a lackey? In, sir! Tancred gets in. The coachmen and the lackeys have reappeared and the coach proceeds - hell for leather towards the Louvre. VOICE OVER But Colonel Guitaut was not there and a dejected Tancred returned to the Inn. CUT TO: I I EXT. THE INN OF THE WHITE HORSE NIGHT A small dingy looking inn on the Rue Dauphine - Tancred approaches the Inn on foot. CUT TO: 12 INT. TANCRED'S ROOM NIGHT Tancred enters his room accompanied by a boy who lights candles. The room looks undisturbed and after the boy goes out, Tancred begins to change clothes. Tancred decides to check on the 'thing' in his luggage and doesn't find it. He begins a frantic search of the room, but finally sits down amazed, dejected and defeated. CUT TO: 22 13 EXT. PLACE ROYALE NIGHT The brightly lit square before the Hotel de Rohan. A magnificent crowd of nobles is assembled. Tancred approaches the hotel, and somewhat intimidated, walks in. CUT TO: 14 INT. HOTEL DE ROHAN NIGHT Tancred enters one of the brilliantly decorated salons looking for Cyrano. He goes through several crowded rooms before spotting Cyrano, who, dressed splendidly holds forth. Cyrano seeing Tancred rushes to meet him. Cyrano escorts him and introduces him to his friends. CYRANO Here we are, Tancred, you must make your bow to our hostesses, the Mesdames de Rohan. Cyrano drags Tancred towards two formidable looking ladies. Cyrano bows. CYRANO Ladies, this is my friend the Chevalier Tancred. He desires the honor of paying his respects to you. The ladies examine him carefully from behind the screen of their fans. DOWAGER DUCHESS DE ROHAN He has a fine face, this soldier of fortune. MARGEURITE DE ROHAN It is more likely he is a nobleman in disguise. MADAME GUEMENEE Is not this the young hero whose story you were telling us? (CONTINUED) 23 (CONTINUED) CYRANO The same, princess. The man to whom I owe my life. NNE GUEMENEE And what do you think of it, Monsieur I'Abbe? She addresses a small, near sighted, clerical gentleman, L'ABBE GONDI. GONDI Your story is a good one Monsieur de Bergerac, but I've just heard a better. CYRANO Oh, come! GONDI Judge for yourselves, ladies. The story involves the King's brother, no less than Gaston, Duke of Orleans. Tancred looks very uncomfortable. GONDI (continuing) Would you believe it, some country - bumpkin put the Duke and his entourage to route when they playfully attacked a carriage earlier this evening. This tiger, not only chased them off but treed La Riviere and threatened to bung hole him. The ladies laugh. YOUNG LADY Tell us monsieur L'Abbe who was in this coach? (CONTINUED) 24 (CONTINUED) GONDI I wasn't told her name. MME GUEMENEE Who cares? It's the man I should like to meet. The ladies titter behind their fans. GONDI Really, I can't say. I had it from Noirmoutier - and there he is now. We must ask him for details. LADIES Details! We want details. New guests arrive including Noirmoutier, Mlle de Cernay, the Mesdames de Nevers, and Mr. Cinq Mars CINQ MARS Who is the unfortunate woman that the Duke insulted with his attentions? GONDI That is what Noirmoutier is going to tell us. Noirmoutier comes up. NOIRMOUTIER Why not let the rescuer himself speak? VOICES Is he here? GONDI Is it possible? Noirmoutier approaches Tancred and offers his hand. (CONTINUED) 25 (CONTINUED) CYRANO (delighted) It was you! MADAME GUEMENEE Well, my dear Gondi, how do you like the ending of your story? Gondi looks carefully at Tancred. GONDI Here's a man who will go far. The notables crowd around Tancred. DISSOLVE TO: 15 INT. HOTEL ROHAN NIGHT Mlle de Cernay and Tancred are talking apart in a small room. MLLE DE CERNAY Thank you for not mentioning me - and thank you again for helping me. TANCRED You see, I'm till wearing your colors somehow, I feel you are in danger? Am I wrong? MLLE DE CERNAY Why do you think so? TANCRED I don't know. But if you need my help (CONTINUED) 26 (CONTINUED) MLLE DE CERNAY I shall certainly avail myself of it TANCRED If you need me, I am housed opposite the College de Navarre. MLLE DE CERNAY What - in the White Horse? TANCRED How did you know that - ? They notice they are being watched and break away from each other. Tancred bows. CUT TO: 16 EXT. PARIS STREET NIGHT Tancred and Cyrano are making their way home. CYRANO You were a magnificent success. TANCRED My friend, I am ruined. CYRANO What! TANCRED My casket has been stolen. CYRANO There's nothing for us to do but find it. Come! CUT TO: 27 17 INT. HOTEL D'AIGUILLON NIGHT Richlieu's residence. CARDINAL RICHLIEU is working at his desk. He rings wearily. COUNCILLOR LEON BOULTILIER DE CHAVIGNY enters. RICHLIEU Well! - Is the message deciphered? CHAVIGNY Not yet, Eminence. Despatches have arrived from England. They are finishing the transcription. RICHLIEU King Charles is sending us an ambassador CHAVIGNY - To demand the return into France of the Queen Mother. RICHLIEU The Chancellor and Council are unanimously opposed to her return CHAVIGNY Except for Monsieur Le Grand. RICHLIEU The enemies of the state have no better friend than Monsieur le Grand. If our plans meet with setbacks everywhere, it is because there is someone near the King who dares to plead for our enemies. CHAVIGNY Monsieur le Grand is your protégé. I doubt he would bite the hand which fed him. (CONTINUED) 28 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU He's not capable of ambition. No, he's in love. It is the Duchess de Nevers who thinks for him. It is women who have ruined him. There is a knock at the door and an assistant enters. ASSISTANT Milord, there is a Capuchin come to report from Sedan. RICHLIEU Show him in at once. The assistant returns immediately with a florid faced monk who bows. CAPUCHIN I met the man. RICHLIEU You are certain the man you met is the one we are after? CAPUCHIN Absolutely. The man could be recognized anywhere - a tall, thin, impudent braggart RICHLIEU Continue! CAPUCHIN I traveled with him for quite a long way. He boasted constantly. He told me he was expected here by three noblemen. I pretended not to believe him so he named them. RICHLIEU Who - ? (CONTINUED) 29 (CONTINUED) CAPUCHIN Guise, De Beaufort. RICHLIEU And the other. CAPUCHIN He said he's greatest friend was Monsieur le Grand. RICHLIEU I was certain of it. You made him a prisoner? CAPUCHIN Regrettably no. He must have become suspicious and slipped away. I couldn't keep up with him on my mule. RICHLIEU We must find this man at any price. He is the go-between Sedan and Monsieur le Grand. (signing a paper) Here is your warrant. It will give you the assistance of any troops you may need. Go, and do not return without this man. The Capuchin bows low and exits. RICHLIEU What did I tell you. The storm is gathering. Call Roussin. Chavigny goes out and returns with a non descript man of doubtful appearance, ROUSSIN, who bows. CHAVIGNY His Eminence wants to know if anything of a suspicious nature took place at the Hotel de Nevers. (CONTINUED) 30 (CONTINUED) ROUSSIN Several gentlemen paid their respects, but RICHLIEU Who? ROUSSIN Why, Monsieur de Guise, the Abbe Gondi, Monsieur de Beaufort RICHLIEU All my enemies - Anymore? ROUSSIN A carriage with a young lady whose name I do not know. Very beautiful RICHLIEU We must discover this unknown woman's name. Anymore? ROUSSIN Later, Monsieur le Grand. RICHLIEU By God! Anymore? ROUSSIN Some scoundrels pretended they were followers of the Duke of Orleans CHAVIGNY (shocked) The King's brother ROUSSIN That's all, I think (CONTINUED) 31 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU Good work - From this point on watch more carefully than ever. Take two additional men - of your choice. Everything must be observed with precision. ROUSSIN Yes, sir. Roussin goes out. RICHLIEU There they all are. I need to know what plans they are making. They are frightened and might try anything. (pause) Bah! What difference! I have them in my hands. To think that the King's own brother is part of this vile conspiracy. CHAVIGNY At the moment we can prove nothing At this juncture a soft, insinuating voice, that of MAZARIN, a slender, handsome priest interrupts without being announced. Mazarin enters. MAZARIN We can prove everything. The fools signed a written agreement. RICHLIEU (exclaiming) Mazarin! When? MAZARIN Tonight, at the hotel de Rohan - in the presence of Madame. (CONTINUED) 32 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU How did you get this information - ? MAZARIN (coyly) From a lady. The plan is this. The Duke of Orleans and the Duke of Guise will join forces with the dissidents at Sedan - Then march on Paris. - The stage is set. Meanwhile Spain will enter the fray at the invitation of the Princes. RICHLIEU They must think twice before doing that. It's high treason. MAZARIN The Duke of Orleans, is not the man to refrain from profitable treason provided he is confident of success. The King is ill and likely to die any day. Who will oppose the regent as the Duke is likely to be? RICHLIEU Then they may succeed. The King's support is always vacillating. MAZARIN You must look to the Queen. RICHLIEU The Queen can no longer do anything. I've made sure of that. MAZARIN Here, yes. But outside of France she is still the granddaughter of Charles the Fifth, Arch Duchess of Flanders and sister of the King of Spain. The Queen can do everything. (CONTINUED) 33 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU Then you believe the Queen is the key to everything? MAZARIN The key to the situation is Monsieur Bernard. RICHLIEU Are you trifling with me? Mazarin whispers in the Cardinal's ear. The Cardinal starts and gestures for Chavigny to leave which Chavigny does. RICHLIEU You say she is - MAZARIN In Paris. RICHLIEU Has she seen the Queen? MAZARIN Not yet? But she's seen one of the Queen's attendants; Mlle de Cernay. RICHLIEU Why didn't you inform me sooner? MAZARIN I saw no reason to alarm you unless I was positive. I feared you might be expeditious. You do not threaten your opponents. RICHLIEU What do you mean by that? (CONTINUED) 34 (CONTINUED) MAZARIN You usually waste no time imprisoning them or killing them. RICHLIEU (somewhat defensive) What would you do in my place - ? MAZARIN I - ? I should prefer to toy with them. Having discovered the nest, I hold the bird. RICHLIEU Have you had a thorough search made of the place? MAZARIN Birds are scared by searches. I simply made a little visit. RICHLIEU And what did you find? MAZARIN Nothing. The evening before the bird had flown away. RICHLIEU I shall put that bird in a strong cage. MAZARIN Alas, - in cages birds are sad - and they do not sing - There is something between Monsieur Bernard - and the Queen I am sure of it. RICHLIEU What? (CONTINUED) 35 (CONTINUED) MAZARIN A secret. And when you know the secret - the Queen will be in your hands. (abruptly) I need a trusty man. RICHLIEU There is Chavigny. MAZARIN No - I need a swordsman RICHLIEU Then - perhaps - What do you say to Monsieur D'Artagnan? MAZARIN D'Artagnan! I say splendid! CUT TO: 18 EXT. SIGN OF THE PINEAPPLE (A TAVERN) NIGHT Cyrano and Tancred walk into the Rue de la Juiverie. They look at a doorway under a sign lit by a lantern. CYRANO Let's go in. Here we shall be quiet and think things through. CUT TO: 19 INT. SIGN OF THE PINEAPPLE NIGHT A low ciel, smoke filled room, filled with students, poets, and bohemians. The noise and the (CONTINUED) 36 (CONTINUED) stench is appalling Cyrano and Tancred enter. TANCRED You call this a quiet place - ? Cyrano doesn't respond but drags Tancred to a table occupied by a huge, Falstaff like man, seated before enough food for several persons. CYRANO Saint Amant I pre-sent the Chevalier Tancred to you - straight from the Palace Royale. SAINT AMANT, for that is the name of the fat man, waives them into seats. SAINT AMANT Doubtless he was terribly amused there - which explains his dismal, downcast hangdog look. CYRANO You must know first off, that the Chevalier Tancred is my best friend. SAINT AMANT (interested) Since when? CYRANO Since this afternoon when he saved my life. SAINT AMANT Ah, I heard about that - you killed Brioche's monkey - I shall compose an epic poem on the subject. CYRANO As you please. But we have need of serious conversation. (CONTINUED) 37 (CONTINUED) SAINT AMANT Then we need some wine. Waiter A waiter comes and fills glasses all around. CYRANO Something strange is going on. SAINT AMANT Not unusual in Paris. CYRANO Tancred arrived in Paris last night from the Army in Flanders. SAINT AMANT Which corps? Gassion or Rantzau? TANCRED Gassion. SAINT AMANT Go on. CYRANO He has been robbed of an immense fortune which he carried with him. SAINT AMANT Let's have another round of drinks. CYRANO I see you don't visualize this clearly. It's because you don't know about the casket. SAINT AMANT The casket contained his fortune? Did they bury it? (CONTINUED) 38 (CONTINUED) CYRANO I'm not explaining very clearly - That's why you don't understand. SAINT AMANT Bah? It's because of my drinking problem. I haven't drunk enough. CYRANO Tancred, I brought you here to meet Saint Amant, because beneath the disguise of a drunkard lurks the greatest mind for unraveling intrigue in all France. SAINT AMANT (modestly) Cyrano, you make me blush. CYRANO No one would ever take him for a secret agent, but he's been one for many years - and his penetration is simply amazing. Saint Amant is a man of great logical powers, and is in favor with certain high persons - The Duchess of Nevers values SAINT AMANT Princess Marie honors me with her friendship CYRANO You may trust his discretion. SAINT AMANT (fighting a pipe) So you regard it as a serious matter. CYRANO Judge for yourself The Chevalier knows (MORE) (CONTINUED) 39 (CONTINUED) CYRANO (cont'd) nothing of his family. He was brought up as a soldier by mercenaries. The man who raised him preserved in his casket certain papers but the man died in combat. Tancred nods assent. CYRANO Before dying, the soldier made confession to a priest and the result is that the Chevalier is to give the casket to an intermediary. SAINT AMANT Who is? CYRANO Mr. de Guitaut - ! SAINT AMANT The Captain of the Queen's guards? CYRANO The same! SAINT AMANT And you have seen him? TANCRED I sent word to him this morning. And he sent word back to come without delay and bring the casket. SAINT AMANT Well then? TANCRED When I went back to my lodgings to change my clothes the casket had disappeared. (CONTINUED) 40 (CONTINUED) Saint Amant puffs his pope and blows large smoke rings. SAINT AMANT Did Monsieur de Guitaut know your address? TANCRED (surprised) No! SAINT AMANT Could he have followed you? TANCRED I didn't return to my lodgings. SAINT AMANT The wind doesn't blow in that direction then. - Has anything else disappeared? TANCRED Nothing. Even my purse was untouched. SAINT AMANT Who else knew of the existence of this little box? TANCRED No one but ourselves. SAINT AMANT This is getting very obscure. Where are you staying? TANCRED At the White Horse - the house of Barbette. SAINT AMANT What sort of woman is she? (CONTINUED) 41 (CONTINUED) TANCRED A strange woman. She kept telling me about someone who had occupied my room previously but he left suddenly on account of the wind. SAINT AMANT (knowingly) On account of the wind? TANCRED Yes! What does it mean? SAINT AMANT Proceed slowly. Who was this person who had your room? TANCRED A Monsieur Bernard. SAINT AMANT I don't recognize that name. CYRANO You think this Bernard is the thief? SAINT AMANT No. It's more likely to be - CYRANO Who - SAINT AMANT The wind. Cyrano and Tancred exchange a puzzled glance. (CONTINUED) 42 (CONTINUED) SAINT AMANT It's plain enough. It had to be the wind. If no one knew the casket existed, no one went to look for it. No - The man who took it was looking for something else. CYRANO I don't like riddles. SAINT AMANT Who ever took it was looking for Monsieur Bernard. TANCRED Then he should return it to me. SAINT AMANT That doesn't follow. TANCRED All I know is that my casket has been stolen. Let all the winds of hell try to stop me I shall have it back. CYRANO (worried) Speak lower. You don't know whence this wind blows. (Then, rashly) He's a thief, after all, nothing but a common thief. If he has the trappings of a Cardinal so much the worse for him! SAINT AMANT Now who's being indiscreet? CUT TO: 43 20 EXT. PARIS STREET NIGHT Tancred is returning to the White Horse by himself He is jostled by a stranger. STRANGER An ill wind blows tonight. Tancred stops in his tracks. STRANGER I have news of Monsieur Bernard. The man walks across the street. After considering a moment, hand on his sword belt, Tancred follows him. CUT TO: 21 EXT. PARIS STREET NIGHT MOVING Tancred follows the stranger down several streets to a house where a horse, saddled and ready, is waiting. The stranger waits for Tancred. TANCRED Sir, you have said things that make me wish to hear more. STRANGER Sh! - You must not return to your lodgings. The house is guarded. TANCRED By whom? (CONTINUED) 44 (CONTINUED) STRANGER By followers of the Red Man. I've been watching for you for several hours. I saw the Archers and Ks Eminence's guards arrive. TANCRED But who has directed you to watch over me so closely? STRANGER (slyly) Who? You know well enough! TANCRED I beg you to thank my protector. STRANGER Weren't you warned there was an ill wind? TANCRED Somehow that precaution was not taken. STRANGER What stupidity! Is that why I didn't find you at the other place? TANCRED Exactly. STRANGER Not seeing you, I was sure something had gone wrong and immediately returned to her. It was she who sent me to guard you here. TANCRED A good idea. STRANGER You were walking straight into a trap. (CONTINUED) 45 (CONTINUED) TANCRED And Mr. Bernard. His health is good? STRANGER (laughing) You like to joke. If his health worries you, you'll soon be able to ask him about it. Take this. (giving Tancred a sealed packet) Tancred examines it and puts it in his pocket. TANCRED Where am I to meet the gentleman? STRANGER All the information is there. The Angel included a message for you. The stranger mounts his horse and gallops off. Someone calls out "Stop," but the Stranger rides on. There is a gun shot. VOICE He got away. 2ND VOICE Bad luck. Tancred draws back: two guardsman appear - see nothing and withdraw. CUT TO: 22 EXT. PARIS STREET NIGHT Tancred is examining the papers he has received. CUT TO: 46 INSERT LETTER 55 must avoid 22 He will find 24 at the appointed place and will take him at the right time, he knows where. A For the Mysterious Cavalier Be outside the Wall of Saint Jacques tonight at one o'clock. You are expected there. The officer of the guard at the gate will allow you to pass on showing the ring. RETURN TO SCENE: 23 EXT. PARIS STREET NIGHT Tancred holds the ring in his hand and looks at it, makes up his mind and hurries on. CUT TO: 24 INT. CARDINAL'S STUDY NIGHT The Richlieu and Mazarin are waiting for D'Artagnan. MAZARIN Are you sure of the man you have chosen? (CONTINUED) 47 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU He is the personification of loyalty. I believe he is here. An assistant enters. ASSISTANT Milord, here is Lieutenant D'Artagnan. D'Artagnan enters, he is now about thirty, salutes and stands at attention. RICHLIEU Come, Monsieur D'Artagnan approach a bit nearer. You haven't been mentioned lately. What has become of you? D'ARTAGNAN (coming forward) I endure RICHLIEU Meaning? D'ARTAGNAN That I remain a lieutenaritt of Musketeers since the day ten years ago when Your Eminence was pleased to confer that rank upon me. RICHLIEU Is that a reproach? D'ARTAGNAN Oh, Milord! It is a mere st atement of fact. Mazarin smiles slyly. The Cardinal is a little uncertain. (CONTINUED) 48 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU You have good reason to complain. After the eminent services you rendered to the Queen, your devotion as well as your discretion - ha ve remained unrewarded. D'Artagnan shows no emotion whatever. RICHLIEU I myself have often regretted that I could not find better use for your talents. But what can one do? Th e days of swashbuckling heroismare past. Peace is hard on warlike natureslike your. Tell me, are you still the same man you were? D'Artagnan is trying to figure out why the Cardinal has summoned him. D'ARTAGNAN (warily) What does milord imply? RICHLIEU That formerly you had hot blood. D'ARTAGNAN Oh, I've calmed down. Particularly in regard to his Majesty's edicts against dueling. RICHLIEU (kindly) That's good. It was a law you paid little attention to in the old days - you and your friends - what were their names? D'ARTAGNAN Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. RICHLIEU (smiling) Yes, I remember. D'ARTAGNAN On my word, my old friends would hardly recognize me. I've become gentle as a lamb. The Cardinal goes to his desk and looks in a folder. RICHLIEU Tell me, what happened to that Swiss gentleman who lived in your lodgings? D'ARTAGNAN (a surprised grunt) Oof! RICHLIEU (gently) You apparently thought he was paying too much attention to the hostess of your lodgings. It is written here he was found in the gutter one night with the marks of a few sword thrusts in the stomach. Had you heard about that? D'ARTAGNAN I vaguely recall - RICHLIEU The man died of his wounds. D'ARTAGNAN The Swiss are a very fragile race. RICHLIEU Hmm! And that guardsman of the King's who was picked up at the Carmes-Dechaux, rather the worse for wear - D'ARTAGNAN Oh, that's quite another matter. The fool dared to pretend that in the service of Your Eminence swords rusted in their scabbards. RICHLIEU He was given convincing proof to the contrary. D'ARTAGNAN Could such an unparalleled slander be tolerated? RICHLIEU (coldly) Oh, it was you then? Well, we'll leave that. His Majesty's Guardsmen are at times insolent - you may recall when you wore his colors. Now they say that three dragoons. D'ARTAGNAN Must we continue? RICHLIEU Well, it says here... D'ARTAGNAN They say so many things. RICHLIEU You are still incorrigible! D'ARTAGNAN (bowing his head) I fear so. Your Eminence must help me. My Gascon blood keeps boiling over. It is constantly playinjg tricks on me. It must be kept from wasting itself on trivial things. RICHLIEU How then? D'ARTAGNAN By employing me in great things - for the service of the state. RICHLIEU So be it! I shal test your loyaly. You have served others well. We shall seeif you will serve me in turn. D'ARTAGNAN You wrong me if you doubt it. His Majesty put me at Your Eminence's disposition. From that day, my life has been yours. RICHLIEU I am satisfied of that. For the moment your orders are simple. You know the convent of the Carmelites? D'ARTAGNAN Certainly. RICHLIEU The garden walls between the Rue D'Enfer and the Rue Saint Jacques are joined by a narrow street. D'ARTAGNAN The Rue de la Bourbe, I believe. RICHLIEU About haf way down the street is a little door to the garden. D'ARTAGNAN Yes, sir. RICHLIEU Go there alone - and watch the door with the greatest care. D'ARTAGNAN No one shall pass in. RICHLIEU On the contrary, let anyone in who desires to enter. D'ARTAGNAN Ah! Then no one shall leave. RICHLIEU No, no. Your mission is to attach yourself to a gentleman who will be pointed out to you by Monsieur de Mazarin - you will not leave that person no matter what may happen. Monsieur de Mazarin will explain the rest on the way - this business is likely to lead you on a merry chase. You may need money. (taking a purse from his desk) I want no noise, no uproar. Mazarin steps forward with D'Artagnan. D'ARTAGNAN I shall be discreet. RICHLIEU This gentleman may have some friends. D'ARTAGNAN THe number makes no difference. RICHLIEU Remember, you are expressly forbidden to fight. D'ARTAGNAN Even if I am attacked? RICHLIEU Oh - they want no noise. They won't attack you. D'ARTAGNAN Then what does Your Eminence fear? RICHLIEU If you are recognized, they might try to entice you to fight somewhere else. D'ARTAGNAN Sir, I am cautious. RICHLIEU Hum! MAZARIN There is one way, Your Eminence. (pleasantly) Let Mr. D'Artagnan swear he will not draw his sword from his scabbard. RICHLIEU That's an excellent idea. Swear then, Monsieur D'Artagnan. D'ARTAGNAN It is enough the Your Eminence commands it. RICHLIEU Come, is it really so difficult? Monsieur de Mazarin will say the words and you will repeat after him. MAZARIN I swear... D'ARTAGNAN I swear... MAZARIN on my faith as a gentleman... D'ARTAGNAN on my faith as a gentleman... MAZARIN and as a musketeer... D'ARTAGNAN and as a musketeer... MAZARIN that come what may... D'ARTAGNAN that come what may... MAZARIN I will not draw my sword from its scabbard this night. D'Artagnan looks miserable. D'ARTAGNAN I will not draw my sword from its scabbard this night. CUT TO: 25 EXT. RUE SAINT JACQUES NIGHT Tancred approaches the Rue Saint Jacques. Awaiting him is a gentleman with a groom. TANCRED (taking off his hat) Monsieur Bernard? The gentleman nods. I come from the Angel. The gentleman nods again. I am ready to accompany you. The stranger nods but gestures for him to put a ring on his finger. Yes, yes, I have the ring. (putting it on) They go toward the gate on the Rue Bourbe. They approach the guarded gate. TANCRED On the King's service. Call your duty officer. The guard goes off and returns with an officer who is in bery bad humor but when he sees the ring, he takes off his hat. 56 (CONTINUED) OFFICER Let them pass! They enter. CUT TO: 26 EXT. STREET NIGHT Tancred and Mr. Bernard pass through the gate and walk down a street. Mr. Bernard stops Tancred, signs for him to wait, then disappears. Tancred looks about and nearly bumps into D'Artagnan. and Mazarin. Tancred returns into the shadows. MAZARIN Prudence my dear sir, prudence. D'ARTAGNAN Very well! I have not yet forgotten my orders. MAZARIN They must have turned into the Rue de la Bourbe. - Above all, keep your sword in its scabbard. D'Artagnan and Mazarin move off. After they leave Tancred comes out of the shadows. He watches them. Suddenly, he hears a noise behind him. MLLE DE CERNAY Chevalier, are you there? Tancred turns quickly, and bumps into Mlle de Cernay. TANCRED Pardon my clumsiness. (CONTINUED) 57 (CONTINUED) MLLE DE CERNAY Oh, it is you! I recognize you from your abruptness. Thank you for coming. TANCRED It's for me to thank you. But for you, I should have walked straight into a trap. MLLE DE CERNAY They returned, didn't they? TANCRED In large numbers. And they seem to be a bit rough. MLLE DE CERNAY Oh, they would have taken you alive, be sure of that. Their master likes to talk to his adversaries. TANCRED Who is their master? MLLE DE CERNAY Silence. Prefer not to know. TANCRED I like to know what I am fighting against. MLLE DE CERNAY The truth is they weren't looking for you. TANCRED It was for this eternal Mr. Bernard. - Without realizing it, he is the cause of a grave misfortune which has befallen me. So I have a vital interest in discovering who hides behind this borrowed name. (CONTINUED) 58 (CONTINUED) MLLE DE CERNAY You will have time to question him yourself TANCRED When? MLLE DE CERNAY This very night. You are to be his companion. TANCRED Where am I to take him? MLLE DE CERNAY Far from here. TANCRED I leave all that is dear to me. MLLE DE CERNAY Believe me, it is better thus. You are being searched for. You must put yourself out of reach. TANCRED Tell me, will my exile be long? MLLE DE CERNAY A few weeks. Time enough for them to forget you. It is time to separate. TANCRED Already. But where shall I find Monsieur Bernard? MLLE DE CERNAY Here in two hours. Above all take care not to be noticed. She starts to go, but he holds her back. (CONTINUED) 59 (CONTINUED) TANCRED Will I see you again? MLLE DE CERNAY Yes. He kisses her hand and lets her go. She disappears into the darkness. CUT TO: 27 EXT. CONVENT OF CARMELITES NIGHT The Queen and Monsieur Bernard are hugging each other, weeping. BERNARD Be courageous, my Queen. QUEEN I have so much to weep for. BERNARD The King still suspects you? He torments you with his horrid jealousy? QUEEN Worse than that. He scorns me. BERNARD I thought he was becoming reconciled. QUEEN In appearance only. BERNARD Poor man. How they have dried up his life. How I grieve for you. To see you now after so many years of separation. (CONTINUED) 60 (CONTINUED) QUEEN (breaking away) Let us leave that. Enough of my misery. You are running a terrible risk. If the King or the Cardinal should suspect your presence BERNARD So they have not forgotten me after all these years. QUEEN They are still afraid of you. BERNARD They are wise. Nor have I forgotten them. - All those whom I loved, the flower of France's nobility snuffed out. Me, they banished. But they could not crush me. QUEEN Your anger terrifies me. BERNARD When they hurt me, they are striking at you. - But the hour of vengeance has arrived. I cry for vengeance on this murderer QUEEN You forget to whom you are speaking. BERNARD No, I don't. I speak to Anne of Austria, Infanta of Spain, and Queen of France. - I also remember who I am that in my veins runs the blood of the Rohans - When men genuflect before murderers it is time for -women to rise and act. No, my Queen, I do not forget I am only a woman. But that (MORE) (CONTINUED) 61 (CONTINUED) BERNARD (cont'd) woman is the Duchess de Chevreuse, Marie de Rohan. QUEEN (fearing detection) Marie, be careful. DUCHESS Nothing can stop me, nothing. QUEEN What do you wish from me? DUCHESS Your support! QUEEN Too much blood has been shed for me already. I accept my misery as punishment for my sins. DUCHESS What sins have you committed? That of rejecting the presumptuous love of Cardinal Richlieu -, of being scorned by your own husband. QUEEN In spite of his faults, he remains my King. DUCHESS He forced you to it. By his ferocious and unjust jealousy. QUEEN In the end his jealousy was not unjust - as you, better than all people in the world, know. (CONTINUED) 62 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS He earned the horns you put on him. Dare to say you regret it! QUEEN No, I don't. DUCHESS And the memory of Buckingham QUEEN I don't want to hear that name. DUCHESS He paid for his love for you with every drop of his life's blood. But he did not think he paid too high a price. QUEEN How he loved me! DUCHESS Buckingham's blood has not been avenged. QUEEN Stop, you're breaking my heart. DUCHESS Your enemy is in our power at last. One signal from you QUEEN Don't dream of such a thing - I am the Queen of France, I cannot become a rebel. DUCHESS A rebel! All of France is with you. The King himself has promised Monsieur le Grand to dismiss Richlieu. (CONTINUED) 63 (CONTINUED) QUEEN What do you want of me? DUCHESS Your signature - on a letter. QUEEN To whom? DUCHESS To the Arch Duchess of Flanders - A courier will bring it to you. QUEEN No, no, I cannot do it. I do not wish it. DUCHESS You pardon those who have ruined you! QUEEN Yes, I pardon them. DUCHESS You absolve those who murdered your friends and supporters. QUEEN Let God judge them DUCHESS Even the assassins of Lord Buckingham QUEEN (very upset) No, no, no! DUCHESS The man who loved you was worthy of you! (CONTINUED) 64 (CONTINUED) QUEEN Lord Buckingham was worthy of any woman. But think, afterwards - DUCHESS What happened afterwards only you and I know. Lord Buckingham died without breathing a word of it. And so will 1. QUEEN I have sinned - and cruelly God has punished me. DUCHESS God? Is it God who struck you? Was it not the Cardinal? QUEEN How I hate him! DUCHESS You have cause. It was the Cardinal who planned Buckingham's murder - and his hatred did not stop at the grave - The man will stop at nothing - after Buckingham's death - the child, Buckingham's child, your child - QUEEN (in agony) Is he dead? DUCHESS Vanished. Kidnapped. The Queen staggers and the Duchess holds her like a baby. DUCHESS Anne - my darling. CUT TO: 65 28 INT. THE PINEAPPLE NIGHT Cyrano is still sitting at a table with Saint Amant. Saint Amant is asleep. Tancred enters and whispers in his ear. CYRANO You need me? TANCRED I have to guard an important personage. I thought I might not be able to carry out my instructions alone. CYRANO (rising) Not another word. I'm with you. Where? TANCRED Rue de la Bourbe. CYRANO That's the Convent of the Carmelites. TANCRED Exactly. We must be there by four o'clock. CYRANO Excellent. I shall have time to finish my ballad on the way. TANCRED Your ballad? CYRANO Yes. A little masterpiece I'm composing. (finishing his drink) We are off. CUT TO: 66 29 EXT. RUE DE LA BOURBE-CARMELITE'S DOOR NIGHT D'Artagnan, wrapped in his cloak is guarding the door to the convent, walking up and down to keep warm. D'ARTAGNAN (muttering to himself) Devil take it. There was no need of all those oaths. It would take the Devil himself to draw a sword in such a dark hole. Bah! What work this is. Exactly suited to a musketeer. CUT TO: 30 EXT. DOOR OF THE CARMELITES NIGHT Tancred accompanied by Cyrano go to the wicket gate. Tancred knocks. MLLE DE CERNAY'S VOICE Is it you, Chevalier? TANCRED Yes. MLLE DE CERNAY Have you had any unfortunate encounters? TANCRED None. The street is as clear as you could wish. MLLE DE CERNAY Come in then, you are needed. Tancred enters as the gate opens. Cyrano waits outside. Mlle de Cernay has a lamp. The light shows us that D'Artagnan is watching carefully. Cyrano walks sentry like before the gate. Suddenly, D'Artagnan, despite contorting his face, sneezes. (CONTINUED) 67 (CONTINUED) CYRANO Who goes there? There is no answer. CYRANO A sneeze seldom comes without a sneezer. Who goes there? There is no answer. CYRANO (strikes a flint) Sir, I am charmed to make your acquaintance. D'Artagnan involuntarily sneezes again. CYRANO God bless you! There is still no reply from D'Artagnan. CYRANO You must be catching cold. Wouldn't you like to move on a few steps? I t might warm you up. There is a pernicious draft here (banteringly) You'll meet your death, my dear sir, if you insist on loitering here! D'Artagnan angered, finally moves. D'ARTAGNAN You are a Gascon? CYRANO At your service. (CONTINUED) 68 (CONTINUED) D'ARTAGNAN I'm one, too. CYRANO Good. Would it please you, dear countryman, to accompany me away from here? D'ARTAGNAN It would enchant me to accept such a gracious invitation, but for the moment, I must decline. CYRANO Ah, I see. We are acting as a spy tonight. D'ARTAGNAN (stung) Spy? That is a word we don't understand in Gascony. CYRANO I'm sure we both agree on one thing. One or the other of us is superfluous here. D'ARTAGNAN (pulling his mustache viciously) The Devil take the Cardinal and oaths! CYRANO Tell me, is that sword you wear used solely for decoration? D'ARTAGNAN (in a rage) Move out of here! CYRANO Gladly. Kindly follow me. D'Artagnan does not budge. (CONTINUED) 69 (CONTINUED) CYRANO Perhaps this is merely a loquacious statue? D'Artagnan does not reply. CYRANO It seems we are patient. D'ARTAGNAN Very! CYRANO Enough of this fooling. Let's end this now. Come out of there Cyrano walks up to D'Artagnan who awaits him motionless. Cyrano raises his arm but D'Artagnan catches it. D'ARTAGNAN Try to control yourself Cyrano pulls away and D'Artagnan's cloak falls away. CYRANO A musketeer! Well that explains it. D'ARTAGNAN (dying to have at him) Which means? CYRANO That I am a cadet in the Queens Guard, and that none of the Cardinal's Musketeers has ever stood up to us. D'ARTAGNAN Aramis, Porthos, Athos - you are insulted my friends! (CONTINUED) 70 (CONTINUED) He pulls his sword halfway out of his scabbard, but then remembering his oath he puts it back. Suddenly, D'Artagnan smiles. D'ARTAGNAN Come. CYRANO That's more like it. You can't even see the swords. D'ARTAGNAN Well, you shall feel them. That's enough. CUT TO: 31 INT. CONVENT OF THE CARMELITES NIGHT Revived, the Queen is speaking to the Duchess de Chevreuse. QUEEN Tell me about my baby. Tell me everything. DUCHESS Monsieur Guitaut took him to Lord Buckingham. QUEEN In secrecy? DUCHESS The most complete. Lord Buckingham had the child taken to Scotland by one of his trustiest servants; an Irishman named Patrick. QUEEN Well - ? (CONTINUED) 71 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS Shortly after the Duke was assassinated, the child disappeared The Queen hangs her head. DUCHESS I have spared no pains to track them down but so far, to no avail. QUEEN To be a Queen, and yet be unable to do anything for those one loves! DUCHESS There is something you could do if you would do it. QUEEN That letter! DUCHESS Yes. QUEEN (embracing the Duchess) I'll sign it. I'll avenge them. CUT TO: 32 EXT. STREET DAWN D'Artagnan and Cyrano are still dueling furiously as dawn comes up. Tancred and Mr. Bernard (The Duchess) come out the gate and slip away as the duelists continue. As the light grows stronger Cyrano sees that D'Artagnan is fighting with his sword in its scabbard. (CONTINUED) 72 (CONTINUED) CYRANO Is this a game? Why do you fight like that? D'ARTAGNAN I regret, sir, not to have given you more satisfaction. But I had made a vow. You've won, after all. I'll have my revenge another time. CYRANO You will find me ready. The combatants separate and put up their swords. They bow to each other then Cyrano walks off towards the Rue D'Enfer while D'Artagnan goes after the two fugitives. CUT TO: 33 EXT. RUE DE SAINT JACQUES DAWN D'Artagnan rushes forward: The square is empty. D'Artagnan looks about angrily. Suddenly, from a recess Mazarin appears. MAZARIN Well! Did you get a glimpse of our night birds? D'ARTAGNAN Certainly, I saw them. but that didn't keep them from escaping under my very nose. MAZARIN There were three, weren't there? D'ARTAGNAN Two phantoms and a demon. (CONTINUED) 73 (CONTINUED) MAZARIN And they came out of the Carmelites? D'ARTAGNAN The two phantoms did. I don't know where the demon came from - Hell, probably. MAZARIN Describe the phantoms. D'ARTAGNAN One appeared to be a young soldier, the other a somewhat effeminate, blonde courtier. MAZARIN Of all that, you could be a witness, if necessary? D'ARTAGNAN Certainly. MAZARIN (delighted) That's all I needed. D'ARTAGNAN You're a man easily satisfied. A carriage bearing the Cardinal arms pulls into the square followed by a group of horsemen. The carriage approaches the two men. D'Artagnan is visibly nervous. Richlieu leans out. MAZARIN All goes well. Monsieur DArtagnan accomplished his delicate task perfectly. He saw and recognized the persons at the Carmelites. RICHLIEU Where are they? (CONTINUED) 74 (CONTINUED) MAZARIN By my orders they were allowed to leave Paris. They passed the gate Saint Jacques about a quarter of an hour ago. They are now on the southern highway. RICHLIEU Shall we catch them? MAZARIN Nothing simpler for these gentlemen of the guard with their fast horses. RICHLIEU After them, but let no harm come to her. MAZARIN (turning to D'Artagnan) You understand, Monsieur D'Artagnan. At all cost you are to secure Monsieur Bernard The blonde, somewhat effeminate courtier - without harming him. RICHLIEU (to D'Artagnan) So, things went well. You followed faithfully your difficult instructions? D'ARTAGNAN To the letter. Not for a moment did not my sword leave its scabbard. RICHLIEU Good. I now release you from your vow. You may draw your sword if you like. But Monsieur Bernard, I must have alive. (CONTINUED) 75 (CONTINUED) D'ARTAGNAN Without fail! Where will Your Eminence be pleased to await him? The Richlieu thinks for a moment. RICHLIEU At the Croix de Berry. I shall be there in an hour. D'Artagnan takes a mount from one of the horsemen and tails off about ten men. D'ARTAGNAN To horse gentlemen. Follow me. D'Artagnan gallops off with his detail. The Cardinal and Mazarin smile. CUT TO: 34 EXT. SOUTHERN HIGHWAY DAY MOVING Tancred and the Duchess are riding at a quick pace when the Duchess suddenly slows down. TANCRED Is something wrong, sir? DUCHESS I'm a little tired. TANCRED Is it indiscreet to ask where we are going? DUCHESS To Dampierre. We shall change horses there before taking the Eastern highway. (CONTINUED) 76 (CONTINUED) TANCRED How far is it, to Dampierre? DUCHESS Eighteen miles. TANCRED Can you do it without stopping? DUCHESS We must. Tancred looks at his companion and notices blood stains on her saddle. TANCRED Sir, you are wounded! DUCHESS No, no. It's an old wound in the leg. A mere scratch. TANCRED Let me dress it for you. DUCHESS No. I'll dress it in Dampierre. CUT TO: 35 EXT. SOUTHERN HIGHWAY DAY D'Artagnan leading his squad of horsemen passes by at a fast gallop. CUT TO: 77 36 EXT. SOUTHERN HIGHWAY DAY The Duchess sways in her saddle Tancred catches her and pulls the horses into a grove of trees. He pulls the horses up and helps the Duchess down. The Duchess staggers and collapses unconscious. Tancred loosens her clothes and shirt then starts back startled. TANCRED So that was it! The Duchess comes around. TANCRED Madame, whoever you may be, rest assured I swear to forget your secret. I wish to know nothing. You remain Monsieur Bernard to me. The Duchess smiles. DUCHESS Help me up, please. Tancred carefully helps her to her feet. DUCHESS Why, you're not too clumsy for a soldier. You would make a passable lady's maid. TANCRED (somewhat offended) I hope I shall perform other offices, more worthy of a man and a soldier, in your service. DUCHESS What an ungallant reply, Chevalier. Who knows, someday you may tell with pride that you once helped the Duchess de Chevreuse with her toilet on the highway to Spain? (CONTINUED) 78 (CONTINUED) TANCRED The Duchess de Chevreuse! DUCHESS (laughing) Do I frighten you? TANCRED You - The famous enemy of the Cardinal, the nightmare of the King? DUCHESS I don't look such a monster, do I? TANCRED Certainly not. Tancred looks toward the road and sees a cloud of dust. TANCRED Quick, Madame, quick! We are followed! DUCHESS Followed! It's impossible. The sound off hoof beats can be heard. DUCHESS To horse then. TANCRED It's too late! We could not go a mile without being overtaken. DUCHESS What do you advise? TANCRED You mount and ride on. (CONTINUED) 79 (CONTINUED) TANCRED (firmly) I will stay and cover your retreat. I will hold them off - hopefully long enough for you to make your getaway safely. DUCHESS I can't think of it! You will be cut to pieces. TANCRED Your life and liberty have been entrusted to me. DUCHESS No, no. TANCRED Come - I see you think I'm only useful as a lady's maid. (He draws his sword) DUCHESS I will not accept such a useless sacrifice. I am too weak to make a successful getaway. I am not wounded Chevalier - TANCRED Will you place yourself at their mercy then? DUCHESS Don't worry, they want me alive. They will not harm me! (frowning) But I have papers here which our enemies must not possess. Here take these. (handing him a packet of letters) It is you who must fly. (CONTINUED) 80 (CONTINUED) TANCRED Leave you! Never! DUCHESS Do you dare to question my orders? You must do this. Take my horse. Go straight for the Eastern road. This packet you will deliver to the Count of Soissons at Sedan. You will wait there eight days for me. If I have not arrived TANCRED Oh, Madame. DUCHESS If I have not arrived, you will return to France, with the Count's answer which you must deliver to the Queen. TANCRED Through Mademoiselle de Cernay? DUCHESS Yes, through her. She will give you further instructions. (giving him a ring) This ring will be your protection and will serve as an introduction to the Count - Go, now and be prudent. Thank you, Chevalier. You will never know how much you have done for me. Tancred is reluctant to go. The Duchess pushes him towards his horse. TANCRED How can I leave you in their hands? (CONTINUED) 81 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS You leave me in the hands of God! - Or rather of the Cardinal! Which is not quite the same thing! Go. I command you. Reluctantly Tancred takes her horse and rides off. CUT TO: 37 EXT. SMALL GROVE OF TREES BY THE HIGHWAY DAY D'Artagnan dashes up, and seeing the gentleman (Duchess) advances towards her. D'ARTAGNAN Sir, kindly give me your sword. I arrest you in the name of the King. The Duchess surrenders her sword without protest. DUCHESS Into whose hands have I fallen? D'ARTAGNAN Lieutenant D'Artagnan of the Queen's guard. DUCHESS D'Artagnan, but (under her breath) Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. D'Artagnan hears her and looks startled. DUCHESS I am at your service, sir. (CONTINUED) 82 (CONTINUED) D'ARTAGNAN Then be kind enough to mount your horse. We are taking you to Berry. DUCHESS To Berry! D'ARTAGNAN The place does not please you? DUCHESS It suits me well enough. But I beg you to go slowly. D'ARTAGNAN (looking closely at her) You are not well? DUCHESS Not altogether. I am a little - ah, weak. D'Artagnan recognizes her. D'ARTAGNAN I am entirely at your service, Madame. (to the horsemen) We will advance at a walk gentlemen. The prisoner is not well. The Duchess mounts her horse as does D'Artagnan. They proceed slowly. DUCHESS So, you recognized me? D'ARTAGNAN Could I ever forget the friend of Aramis? (CONTINUED) 83 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS You choose a strange way of demonstrating your friendship - by arresting me. D'ARTAGNAN (biting his lip) I had orders. Besides, I did not know it was you. DUCHESS You are now in the service of the Cardinal? D'ARTAGNAN I wear the Cardinal's colors, but I believe I still serve the King. DUCHESS Then it was the King who ordered my arrest. D'Artagnan looks very uncomfortable and say not one word in reply. DUCHESS Well - at my first opportunity I shall inform Aramis of this pleasant little tale. I have no doubt he will be enchanted and send you his compliments. D'ARTAGNAN (tartly) In that case, Madame, you might be so kind as to tell him that I performed my duty strictly but with courtesy and moderation. Undoubtedly, that will increase his satisfaction. DUCHESS (bitterly) What worse thing could you have done? (CONTINUED) (CONTINUED) D'ARTAGNAN Why, I might have asked him, Madame, his reason for wanting to go so slowly. DUCHESS (naively) What ever do you mean? D'ARTAGNAN I might also have asked him what had become of the young soldier who accompanied him to the Carmelites last night and who is no longer present. DUCHESS Then you know - ? D'ARTAGNAN Nothing, Madame, nothing. I was instructed to arrest Monsieur Bernard. I have performed my duty. DUCHESS Forgive me, you are still the same DArtagnan. CUT TO: 38 EXT. HUNTING LODGE NEAR CROIX DE BERRY DAY D'Artagnan and his party arrived at the hunting lodge. VOICE OVER D'Artagnan continued to treat the Duchess as Monsieur Bernard. The Duchess, despite her (MORE) (CONTINUED) 85 (CONTINUED) VOICE OVER (cont'd) courage was deeply agitated. Her enemies had toyed with her. They had let her visit the Queen and arrested her quietly, at a distance from Paris. Obviously, they wished the Queen to be dragged into this affair. This was not like Richlieu. The Duchess awaited her meeting with her pitiless adversary without fear. Even if she were to die, she was convinced her plans would succeed. The machine she had created would function without her. The Duchess dismounts and enters the hunting lodge escorted by D'Artagnan. CUT TO: 39 INT. HUNTING LODGE DAY The Duchess still dressed as a man is waiting. D'ARTAGNAN VOICE (outside) The prisoner is here. MAZARIN'S VOICE (outside) The thing was done without disturbance. RICHLIEU What matter? The stroke succeeded. The door opens and Richlieu comes in alone. Richlieu bows gallantly. RICHLIEU Madame, I am delighted to pay my respects (CONTINUED) 86 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS (curtseying) Doubtless, a pleasure, Your Eminence. Richlieu pointing to an armchair. RICHLIEU Be seated. We must chat a little. Richlieu sits in a chair in the shadows. RICHLIEU Oof! Thirty years of service are a long time. Never have I felt them so much as today. (kissing her hand) And, never have I had more reason to regret them. The Duchess smiles. RICHLIEU Do you realize, that we have not seen each other in fifteen long years. DUCHESS It seems to me the fault is yours. You made sure I could not safely return to France. RICHLIEU (ignoring this) Bah! To see you makes me doubt the passage of time - you have hardly aged - I feel young again. DUCHESS I never knew I had such rejuvenating powers. And I have never seen you look so vigorous. (CONTINUED) 87 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU The truth is I have never lost sight of you. I have never allowed myself to remain without news of you. DUCHESS Your affection is deeply touching. But I confess I also have kept a watch over you. Am I any less persistent in my attentions than you? RICHLIEU (laughs) Yes, we are quite devoted to one another. Scarcely had I learned of your return when I was seized by a desire to meet with you. DUCHESS In all frankness and friendship. RICHLIEU Absolutely. Let us stop toying with each other. It's not my style or yours either. Up to now we have not been particularly good friends. DUCHESS Your Rift for irony has grown. RICHLIEU Is the fault mine? Sixteen years ago I offered you my friendship DUCHESS I have not forgotten. RICHLIEU And you spurned it. (CONTINUED) 88 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS True. RICHLIEU I think if you had not done so - many misfortunes would have been avoided - both to yourself and your friends You had friends who were not mine. Where are they now? DUCHESS (coldly) It is I who should ask that question. RICHLIEU They have vanished like the wind. - And now, nothing need separate us anymore? DUCHESS You believe that? RICHLIEU The cause of the quarrel no longer exists. DUCHESS (hotly) Honor, loyalty, memory - they exist. RICHLIEU Don't live in the past. I'm an old man - take my advice live for the present. Surely you must be tired of your vagabond existence? Come home to France. DUCHESS Are you serious? What about the King? RICHLIEU I guarantee the King's forgiveness and well as mine. (CONTINUED) (CONTINUED) DUCHESS The King hates me - RICHLIEU Of course he hates you. And you know why. DUCHESS The King thinks I have some evil influence over the Queen which causes her to rebel against his authority. RICHLIEU Bah! If that were all you would already have been pardoned. No, there is another reason - DUCHESS Indeed. Then, really I do not know - RICHLIEU The King suspects you helped the Queen to dishonor him with Lord Buckingham - DUCHESS These suspicions are unjust. RICHLIEU I should like to believe so - DUCHESS Nothing has ever confirmed them - RICHLIEU Not, up to the present - DUCHESS Would they have persisted so long if someone had not kept fanning the flame? (CONTINUED) 90 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU (stung) At one time it was deemed advisable not to allow the Queen to gain too much influence over her husband. But now that there is an heir to the throne it is the duty of every loyal subject to unite them. DUCHESS And you think I am suited to the role of the dove of peace? RICHLIEU You and I together will convince him his suspicions were ill founded. DUCHESS I see. You need the Queen's support. After all these years the tide has turned. RICHLIEU I admit that freely. They must work together. DUCHESS So the little trap you set all those years ago has come full circle? RICHLIEU Why deny it? You are too intelligent to be deceived. Besides I have no wish to deceive you. It was convenient and politic to awaken the King's suspicions sixteen years ago. Today it is neither convenient nor-politic that they should be at odds. They must be reconciled even at the expense of the truth. DUCHESS Interesting. And if I agree to help you clear the Queen in the King's eyes - what then? (CONTINUED) 91 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU You return to France and a favored position at court. DUCHESS I'm inclined to agree. but are there any conditions? RICHLIEU I must have from her Majesty and from you a pledge of friendship and alliance. DUCHESS Surely you want something more tangible than our words. RICHLIEU From the Queen, a sincere written confession of her past - mistakes. DUCHESS And from me? RICHLIEU From you - a written statement containing the real truth, signed by your hand. DUCHESS You believe her guilty. RICHLIEU She is guilty - and you are the one person in the world who knows it fully DUCHESS I? I know no such thing. She is the purest, most chaste (CONTINUED) 92 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU Marie, your loyalty is charming, but have you forgotten about a certain meeting in the garden of the Chateau of Amiens. Lord Montague was present. The Duke of Buckingham, you - and the Queen. DUCHESS The Queen was not in the garden. RICHLIEU Who was the lady then? DUCHESS I cannot tell you without compromising a very great lady. RICHLIEU What's the use of such silly evasions. I know the truth. I don't wish to harm her. DUCHESS You wish to control her. RICHLIEU Well, yes. I want to hold her honor in my hands - and be magnanimous - save her DUCHESS You're asking her to sign her own death warrant so you can trust her. This is nothing but blackmail. RICHLIEU As you wish. I prefer to think of it as security. DUCHESS And if it ever again became convenient and politic to destroy the Queen. (CONTINUED) 93 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU No, no. Please believe I am a gentleman DUCHESS (laughing) - And a prince of the Church! Why should we mistrust you? RICHLIEU Look here - I've long had a suspicion for some time that the little meeting between Buckingham and the Queen was not without - er, consequences. That there was living proof of her infidelity. The secret was well hidden but recently, I've had some indications It would be unfortunate if this proof were to fall into other hands than mine - the King's for instance. DUCHESS (jumping up) Oh never, never! RICHLIEU His anger would be terrible. DUCHESS What do you propose? RICHLIEU Help me find this proof DUCHESS Is that all? RICHLIEU And your signed statement. (CONTINUED) 94 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS My answer is no. I will not betray my Queen. I will not sell her to you. No one can be trusted with such such power - least of all you. RICHLIEU (angrily) Take care! If it is to be war - woe to you and her! DUCHESS You are threatening your sovereign! RICHLIEU For the last time, I offer you peace. DUCHESS At the price of betrayal! RICHLIEU Remember, without you I can discover this secret! DUCHESS Then good luck to you. I won't sell it to you. RICHLIEU You will never be anything but an adventuress. DUCHESS So be it! I accept the title. Let them call me an adventuress. It's better than spy or or traitor. RICHLIEU Do not forget you are at my mercy! (CONTINUED) 95 (CONTINUED) DUCHESS Am I? Ms Majesty might ask why then was so much mystery surrounding the seizure of this banished woman. Why was she allowed to see the Queen? And he might be interested to know the offer she was made in a secluded hunting lodge. RICHLIEU I can avoid any disturbance. No one is aware of your arrest. Who will care what happens to Monsieur Bernard. DUCHESS Doubtless you count on assassinating me with impunity? RICHLIEU Oh, nonsense. Kill you, and why? I can put you in any number of secluded places - places no one leaves after entering. DUCHESS Praise be to heaven, I have good friends. The Queen RICHLIEU The Queen well remain silent. For her to speak would be to betray herself DUCHESS Your followers may be less discreet. RICHLIEU I have them at my mercy. DUCHESS Suppose one of the guards should have recognized me. (CONTINUED) 96 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU Then I am very sorry for him. The Duchess bites her lip to keep D'Artagnan name from escaping her. RICHLIEU You see you are at my mercy. I tried to reason with you. I prefer not to use violence. DUCHESS Violence! You know that except God, Marie de Rohan fears no one. RICHLIEU Be it as you wish! Richlieu sits down at the table and begins to write an order when Mazarin enters and whispers in his ear. Standing behind Richlieu he winks at the Duchess and puts a finger to his lips. Richlieu is none too pleased by Mazarin's words but does not see the wink or the signal. Richlieu rises and begins to pace up and down. RICHLIEU Last night, you did not go alone to the Carmelites. DUCHESS That is perfectly true. RICHLIEU Did your companion know your real name? Mazarin nods his head and winks. DUCHESS Of course. Mazarin after a moment tears up the order he was working on. (CONTINUED) 97 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU (furious but trying to be gracious) My beautiful opponent. You are free. Remember, I held you at my mercy, and I gave you back your life and freedom. The Duchess looks puzzled. Mazarin continues to smile at her. RICHLIEU Monsieur D'Artagnan. D'Artagnan enters. RICHLIEU Lieutenant, I entrust Monsieur Bernard to your care. You will escort him to Boulogne and see that he embarks on the next boat to England. You will take care that your prisoner holds no communication with anyone. You will answer for this with your head. D'Artagnan bows and shows no sign of emotion. RICHLIEU (giving his hand to the Duchess) Remember. Together we can save the Queen. As enemies, we may destroy her. Doubtless, you will repent of having scorned my offer. Hopefully your repentance will not come too late! DUCHESS That is in the hands of God! Richlieu leaves. Mazarin goes to her and hands her a piece of paper. MAZARIN I hope my dear Duchess that you will be (MORE) (CONTINUED) 98 (CONTINUED) MAZARIN (cont'd) pleased to remember that you owe your freedom to me, and that you will let this be known to her Majesty, the Queen. Mazarin walks out after Richlieu and joins him in his carriage. DUCHESS Who in heaven's name is that man? D'ARTAGNAN (shrugging) A nobody - a certain Monsieur Mazarin. DUCHESS Where was he while I was talking with the Cardinal? D'ARTAGNAN At his usual place, just outside the door. DUCHESS Good heavens! He heard everything! CUT TO: 40 INT. THE CARDINAL'S CARRIAGE DAY Richlieu and Mazarin are returning to Paris. RICHLIEU That young soldier, the accomplice, must be found - you understand me, Mazarin? MAZARIN Yes, Eminence, it shall be done. (CONTINUED) 99 (CONTINUED) RICHLIEU To think I had to let her go after all these years MAZARIN It would have been dangerous and profitless to have hidden her away. RICHLIEU At least I should have had my revenge. MAZARIN Revenge - What good would it do? The Cardinal looks at Mazarin dumbfounded. CUT TO: 41 INT. HUNTING LODGE The Duchess is reading the letter given to her. INSERT LETTER If you wish to know what has become of a casket sealed with a star you left at Barbette's, of the White Horse. Write the name of the town where you will spend the night on the pillar of the pavilion. RETURN TO SCENE D'Artagnan enters. (CONTINUED) 100 (CONTINUED) The Duchess folds up the letter. DUCHESS Well, I suppose we must go. Where do you plan to spend the night? D'ARTAGNAN If you like, we will make Saint Germain our first stop. The Royal Oak is a good inn DUCHESS That will be delightful. They go out together. D'Artagnan goes to check on the horses. The Duchess goes back into the lodge and comes out again with some charcoal. She writes on the pillar: "Saint Germain Royal Oak" She tosses the charcoal away and walks to her horse. As the party leaves another musketeer reads the message, carefully rubs it out and takes horse in a different direction. CUT TO: 42 EXT. ROADWAY COULOMIERS DAY Tancred rides toward a handsome inn. The shield of France. Tancred hesitates, preferring a more economical run but finally decides to go first class. Tancred rides into the stable yard and throws the reins to a groom as he dismounts. TANCRED Carefully, carefully! Treat that horse as if it were a bride. (CONTINUED) 101 (CONTINUED) GROOM (appreciatively) Beautiful animal. TANCRED The gift of a duchess. CUT TO: 43 INT. SHIELD OF FRANCE, INN DAY Tancred enters and calls the host. TANCRED You there! Two bottles of your best Burgundy - and some food. I must be off in two hours. Tancred glances out the window and sees a jovial, fat Capuchin monk approach the inn on a donkey. DISSOLVE TO: 44 INT. SHIELD OF FRANCE, INN DAY Tancred has finished one bottle and some food and is working on his second. His coat is hung on a peg along with his rapier. INNKEEPER Your honor belongs to the army without doubt. TANCRED (drinking) Without doubt. (CONTINUED) 102 (CONTINUED) INNKEEPER And you are a rejoining your regiment, perhaps? TANCRED That's right. INNKEEPER A glorious profession, the military - you must surely be on your way to Sedan. TANCRED I am. INNKEEPER Your lordship will then allow me to drink to your success! To the victory of out armies! And long live the Cardinal - Duke. TANCRED To his Majesty, King Louis XIII. There is a sudden noise of coughing from a dark comer of the dining room. INNKEEPER (pointing to the cougher) Look at that poor devil! He used to be a wool stapler in Paris, it's these infernal wars which have seduced him to a state of poverty. It's for that reason I let him in today even though he's a thrifty guest and spent little. TANCRED Ask the honest fellow to have some dinner with me. I'll stand him a meal. INNKEEPER I was hoping you would befriend him. DISSOLVE TO: 103 45 INT. DP41NG ROOM, THE SHIELD OF FRANCE DAY The thin, emaciated man is eating hungrily at Tancred's table. STRANGER Allow me to return your kindness by giving you some good advice. (low) You have just made a serious mistake. TANCRED STRANGER A little while ago while talking to our host, you said something quite unwise. I coughed to warn you. TANCRED All I said was yes or no to his questions. STRANGER Did you not toast the King? TANCRED What's wrong with that? STRANGER To toast the King to a follower of the Cardinal is treated as sedition. TANCRED Then you don't share our hosts admiration for the great man? STRANGER Shh! Listen! I know you are one of us. (CONTINUED) 104 (CONTINUED) TANCRED What do you mean? STRANGER Since when does a soldier have money enough to order a meal like this? Despite your disguise as a soldier it is clear you are a nobleman. TANCRED That's laughable. STRANGER Look at the gold ring you wear. Tancred looks at his ring somewhat embarrassed when the stranger displays an identical ring. Tancred is astonished. STRANGER You see now, you are among friends. You, perhaps, are in the service of the Duchess; I am in the service of the Prince. I must introduce myself (cautiously) I am Jean-Baptiste Dhermitis' sieur de Vauselle - directly descended from Peter the Hermit and cousin to the King of Spain. TANCRED Well - I'm happy to make your acquaintance. VAUSELLE I shall not ask your name, since it appears you prefer to remain anonymous. TANCRED Only a precaution - not a sign of any lack of confidence in you. (CONTINUED) 105 (CONTINUED) VAUSELLE A wise one. I shall not insist. It is enough to know we are of the same party, for, word of a gentleman, starving as I was, I would not allow a follower of the Cardinal to buy me a scrap of food. TANCRED I didn't know that politics had invaded the kitchen. VAUSELLE Of course, you know I am no wool stapler. What has reduced me to this predicament is the necessity of escaping from a cursed spy set on me by the Cardinal. He has tracked me from Sedan to Chalons. Three days ago I gave him the slip, but it lost me all my money and I haven't eaten. TANCRED Three days - I understand your appetite. STRANGER Hunger drives the wolf from the forest. TANCRED Let me give you these few gold pieces to enable you to reach Paris. I take it the thing to do is avoid spies. STRANGER The road is full of them. TANCRED That Capuchin I saw a while ago looked like one to me. (CONTINUED) 106 (CONTINUED) VAUSELLE (alarmed) • Capuchin? TANCRED • big, fat Capuchin. I saw him out the window talking to the groom. VAUSELLE Was he mounted on a mule? TANCRED Yes. VAUSELLE Lord have mercy! It's he! Father Hillarion the Cardinal's spy. He stands up and grabs Tancred's coat from its peg. TANCRED (getting his coat back) Hola! Not so fast! That's my coat your running off with. Vauselle opens the door to the courtyard and comes face to face with the Monk- Vauselle leaps back and the Monk chases him. The Monk runs after him but Vauselle leaps through the open window into the courtyard. The Monk is unable to follow. In a moment Vauselle is mounted on Tancred's horse. The groom and the host run after him crying "Stop Thief TANCRED The scoundrel has stolen my horse! A troop of dragoons pulls into the courtyard. Father Hillarion leans out the window. HILLARION After him! He's just slipped through my fingers. (CONTINUED) 107 (CONTINUED) The Horsemen gallop off. Tancred stands amazed and walks toward the door but Father Hillarion blocks his exit. HILLARION Wait a minute my young friend! That was your horse? TANCRED (trying to pass this immovable obstacle) Yes, father? HILLARION Fine animal! It must have cost you a pretty penny TANCRED The present of a lovely lady who takes an interest in me. HILLARION (pointing to the bottles of wine on Tancred table) And that was your dinner? TANCRED Quite likely! HILLARION For a soldier, you don't spare expense. TANCRED Nothing seems to escape you. HILLARION What else has this pretty lady given you? Pulling his two pistols out and presenting them to the monk. (CONTINUED) 108 (CONTINUED) TANCRED (coolly) This and that. HILLARION Come now, be careful. Tancred backs the monk into a comer and strips him of his girdle which he uses to tie the monk's hands. A napkin thrust in the monk's mouth leaves him completely gagged and helpless. Not content Tancred ties the monk to the staircase, and bolts the door to the kitchen. TANCRED A thousand pardons, for taking leave so abruptly of your agreeable company. I must borrow your mule. I shall exchange it at the next stage for a more suitable mount and will leave orders for it to be returned to you Farewell, reverend sir, I won't trouble you for your blessing. My regards to your master and may God preserve the health of that great Frenchman. Tancred walks out of the Inn. CUT TO: 47 EXT. COURTYARD OF THE INN The Innkeeper and several idlers are discussing the strange situation. TANCRED (in a peremptory tone) Oh, ha my friend! It seems that you receive here the enemies of the King, and aid their flight by furnishing them with the horses of loyal adherents of the Cardinal! (CONTINUED) 109 (CONTINUED) INNKEEPER Oh - but sir TANCRED (furiously) Hold your tongue, my good man! And if you value your skin don't poke your nose in this affair. Above all do not disturb the Holy Man. He has business of a most important nature to conduct and does not wish to be disturbed until he calls you. You understand. Tancred brandishes his pistols while at the same time dropping several gold pieces. INNKEEPER (gasping) I understand, Word! Tancred quickly mounts the mule. TANCRED In the service of His Eminence the Cardinal. Not a word! Tancred rides off while the nervous Innkeeper and his companions stare. TO BE CONTINUED FINAL CREDITS