Original subtitles

Vast amounts of timber in the American Upper Midwest made kings of men.

A culture was created heavily influenced by the lumber barons.

However,by 1910 the seemingly endless forests had been heavily depleted.

This signaled the beginning of te end of the lumber boom.

THE LUMBER BARON

VMD

I'm always so sad when Christmas is over.

Are you packed?

Just one more thing to do.

I thought your Christmas holiday was over and you were

leaving this morning.

I, I am.

But I nee-I need to talk to you first.

It's about medical school.

My grades are a bit lower than they should be and

it-it looks as if I'm going to have to retake some classes. So,

it'll mean another year before I can graduate.

I gave you a choice

between medical school and law school

You chose medical school because as you stated I want to help

people, and I can do that better as a doctor than a lawyer.

And I still want to do that, but the schooling is rigorous;

I just need some extra time to fully grasp...

If it's not one thing, it's another with you.

For years you've given me suggestions in how to run the

business all of them unsound.

I was only trying to be helpful. I just thought that.

You have no business sense.

Stay in medical school an extra year if you desire it,

but I expect you'll soon be coming back with your tail

between your legs.

But Father, I-I did...

Welcome, Thomas, to our home.

I'm glad you and your family could be here tonight.

This is my wife Elizabeth,

my oldest daughter Mary Catherine,

my other daughter Adeline, and my son Colin.

We are pleased to meet all you. This is my wife, Anna,

and our children, Benjamin and Sarah.

Mrs. Taylor, I have been looking forward to making

your acquaintance. Have you had the opportunity to meet

any other ladies in town?

No, this is actually our first social engagement since

moving from Chicago. And, oh, please call me Anna.

Then let me introduce you to the other guests.

Claudia and Priscilla Lynch, may I introduce Anna Taylor.

How lovely to meet you. You should arrange a meeting with

my son Byron and your son Benjamin, is it?

- Yes. - I'm sure Byron could guide him

in the mores of proper society in our locale.

I believe they're already acquainted. Benjamin mentioned

that Byron had stopped by the office earlier this week.

Of course, Byron would think of that. A meeting the junior

partner of your family's father-son law firm

would be in order.

Yes, of course. I must tell you,

your home is absolutely lovely.

I really don't think I've seen a more beautiful house.

This mansion is the envy of every lumber baron in the

Chippewa Valley.

Really? I would just think with so much wealth they could

afford anything they wanted.

It would seem,

but Joseph Lindler had a way of topping them all.

Shall we join the others?

Yes.

I was so hoping Daniel would be here. But medical school calls.

Daniel?

My brother. He returned to Madison several weeks ago.

Daniel and I are, of course, very good friends.

There you are, Byron. You must meet Sarah Taylor.

Sarah, this is Byron Lynch. Priscilla's brother.

A pleasure, Miss Taylor.

Shall we?

So, what is your occupation, Mr. Lynch?

I'm a lumber baron.

- He's one of my competition. - Mmm. What are friends for?

Mary Catherine, many are requesting that you play.

Would you mind?

Not at all.

Mother?

Mother?

Daddy!

Mr. Rimsdale! Mr. Rimsdale!

Mr. Rimsdale?

- Mr. Rimsdale? - Yes?

This telegram just came for you.

Thank you.

In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread,

till thou return unto the ground;

For out of it was thou taken:

For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.

I'm so sorry.

Mrs. Rimsdale. Thank you for coming.

My sympathies to you in the loss of your husband.

- Thank you. - Please, be seated.

The financial stability of your fortune is

tenuous at best.

My father left a sizable inheritance.

He did.

However, the money that Joseph Lindler left to your husband and

you has been severely depleted over the last twenty years

since his death.

But how have we continued in our lifestyle

if we have little money?

Mr. Rimsdale, in the past few years,

sold portions of your landholdings.

He sold parts of my father's land?

Yes, yes, yes, Mrs. Rimsdale. Umm. I, I'm, I'm sorry that

this comes as such a shock. I had assumed that you were

aware of these transactions.

And there is something else that it seems like I need to make you

aware of. The remaining land is mortgaged to the bank.

Are you telling me that I don't even own the land that is left?

As long as you make mortgage payments,

then it is still yours.

Did my husband make those payments?

He did, but your account balance is low.

Umm, You have enough for four more payments after which,

if other funds are not found,

the bank will have no choice but to foreclose on the land.

Is there anything I own that is free and clear?

Your home.

At least he did not mortgage that.

Mr. Rimsdale did meet with me just about a week

before his death to discuss that possibility.

But you have not moved forward with it?

No, ma'am. But the, the papers are here,

but there is no signature, yet.

Daniel, what am I going to do?

Nothing. Do nothing, Mother.

Something must be done. You see the figures.

Yes, but you mustn't rush into anything.

Father has only been in the grave two days.

We have only four months until the bank forecloses!

At least this is your last year of medical school and

the tuition has been paid.

How I wish your Grandfather was still alive.

He would know what to do.

But now,

I want things to always be just like they are just you and me.

Well, I won't always be here.

Someday I'll grow old and frail.

- But that's a long time away. - Yes, and I tell you what.

I won't leave you without memories.

And something else.

Something else?

A treasure.

A treasure that I will hide right here in the Belvedere

For you. So that when I'm gone

and you need me once again, come up here.

I love you, Daddy.

I have some bad news.

I've deliberated as to whether or not to share it with you,

but have decided that you need to know.

Mother, you're not ill, are you?

Not physically.

Your Grandfather Lindler's legacy is gone.

What do you mean gone?

The money that was left to me and your father

has been used up.

This will mean significant changes for us.

How significant, Mother?

We have to scale back our expenditures

which includes our social life.

What about the lumber business? Isn't it making in money?

Apparently not, or at least not enough to keep us

in the style of living that we have now.

We're not going to have to sell this house, are we?

I'm not sure what's going to happen.

The books have to be gone over in order to determine

exactly where things stand with the lumber company.

Mother, who's going to run the business now that

father is gone?

I don't know. Daniel has to return to medical school and...

I'm too young.

You're not thinking of selling the business?

Mrs. Rimsdale, please.

If you would wait here, sir, I'll let her know.

Hmm.

Miles said you wanted to speak to me.

What can I do for you, Silas?

Actually, I was hoping I might do something for you.

Please.

As Daniel's friend I feel obligated to do whatever

I can to help ease the burden of his untimely death

I would be willing to purchase this mansion as well as make

a generous offer on the remaining lands.

The remaining lands?

You talk as if some of the land has already been sold.

But it has. I was the one who purchased it.

I thank you

for what I'm sure is meant as a kind offer,

but nothing is for sa...

Mrs. Rimsdale, I am aware that your husband has spent

your family fortune. I'm afraid for your survival and that

of the children you will be left with nothing.

Do not presume that you know the financial

state of my affairs, Mr. Lynch.

Some resources I may choose

to keep from public knowledge.

Even so,

you would be wise to consider my offer.

Your company is floundering

and you are certainly in no position to salvage it.

You seem to think you know much about my personal affairs

but what you have not considered as of yet, is the fact that my

husband is barely in the grave. Now, here you are, at my

doorstep pressuring me to leave my home.

I am attempting to spare you further anguish. Do not be so

naive that so generous of an offer will ever com...

There are some things I am, but I am certainly not naive.

Ah, Daniel.

You've arrived just in time to show Mr. Lynch out.

I will give you a little time to reconsider.

I suggest you think carefully.

What did he mean? Why was Mr. Lynch here?

Well, oh, thank you, Miles.

He wants to buy the house.

And oh, he'll be pleased to purchase our land, also.

Our house? But he has a house.

But he wants this house.

But why?

Your father told him about the treasure hidden in the Belvedere

and I did not help the situation just now,

because I alluded to it.

I thought you never found the treasure.

I know. But Silas doesn't know that.

Much as I hate to admit it, he's right.

I will be forced to mortgage my father's home.

And when the money runs out, and I am bankrupt,

then Silas will have his wish.

He will be able to buy our house from the bank.

Mother, it seems to me that the best way to get out

of debt is to quit going into debt.

But how can I do that with a business

that is draining our finances dry?

Make the business profitable.

And who will do that? Your father could not do it.

What about the foreman? Does he do a good job?

Maybe he has some idea of how to help the business.

I don't know.

Well, who's the foreman?

A man by the name of Mike Doyles.

Okay, well, father must have had some confidence in him to

have hired him.

Your father hired Mike Doyles on the strong recommendation

of one of his close friends.

Silas Lynch.

Daniel, you must be tired. You've been poring over

these records for hours upon hours for the past two days.

I am tired.

Come, take a rest for a bit.

I'll have Miles bring you some refreshments.

It's my father's journal. I have not seen this for years.

Yes, I-I found it under a pile of things in the Belvedere.

This was your grandfather's diary.

He wrote everything in here from his experience as a

newly hired lumberjack to his rise to fortune.

I know. I've read it from cover to cover.

He was a, a determined man, and a compassionate one.

I've learned many things from those pages.

Mother, I, I believe I have identified at least

some of the reasons that the business is failing

Umm, I-I've put a question mark by all of the accounts

that I found no evidence of payment.

Daniel, are you telling me that we delivered lumber

to customers, but we never received payment for it?

That's precisely what I'm saying.

I don't know why Father didn't collect on these accounts.

I should have stayed more involved with the business.

Would Father have allowed that?

Yes,

but, uh, I just became so worn down by

suffice it to say I just.

Gave up.

Mother, I've read Grandfather's journal many times through.

I want to follow in his footsteps. I want to rebuild

this lumber company and make it profitable.

Now, I, I admit that I'm frightened by the enormity of

the task and my own lack of experience.

But I'm willing to learn and I'm willing to do my best.

Now, grandfather has recorded in his journal descriptions

and guidelines on how to run a good lumber business,

and I will use them as a guide

if you will allow me to manage and direct

the Rimsdale Lumber Company.

Yes.

You have no business sense.

We may not be on a good footing as far as finances

or business goes, but we have a plan.

Umm.

I will not be returning to medical school.

Umm. Instead,

I will manage and direct the lumber business in hopes that

it will turn around and put us on solid financial ground.

But Daniel, with all your heart you wanted to pursue

a medical career. You're so close to finishing.

My heart is with my family.

This is where I need to be.

And this is where I want to be.

You are making a great sacrifice, thank you.

Just think, Daniel, you'll be the talk of the town.

I can hear the gossips now, "Did you know Daniel Rimsdale

is the youngest lumber baron in the valley.

He's only twenty-three!"

Adeline, that type of talk will only

make me more nervous than I already am.

Does this mean we can continue to have parties?

- No. - Yes.

Go on, Daniel. Say what you were going to say.

Uh, I believe that w-we should continue having social events,

but just keep the guest list to a minimum.

Uh, maybe a nice evening get together that doesn't involve

dinner but only light refreshments.

I don't care what the event is so long as we're doing something

and of course,

Byron Lynch must be included on the guest list.

Byron Lynch?

Oh, yes. He's taken quite a shine to me.

Adeline, now is not the time to talk about guest lists.

Now, Mother, uh, your opinion on social events?

Do you think it wise to continue with social events

we cannot afford?

We can afford them for the time being and by maintaining

an a semblance of our station, it should discourage circling

vultures from descending on us to peck

and squawk that we sell this house,

this business, or our lands.

You have a point.

Daniel, I'm glad you're my brother.

Am I interrupting?

No, not at all. I was just,

umm, working on some of the accounts.

You were not. You've never been a good liar.

You were writing a letter.

And to someone you don't want me to know about.

Daniel, is there someone you're leaving behind

at medical school, perhaps a young woman you met during

the course of your studies?

Not at all. I was just making sure that we had everything

- lined up - You don't have to tell me.

If I do,

will you promise not to tell anyone, including our family

unless it becomes absolutely necessary?

Of course. I always keep your secrets.

Alright.

Here goes.

I, I will be...

Daniel, thank you so much for

you know.

Colin, hurry please.

Mary Catherine.

On my way!

We don't have much time, only a few months.

I'll finish the invoices, post them this week.

Don't be concerned.

Alright.

There he is.

Are you going to rent a big wagon to put all of

your belongings in and then ride the horses yourself?

I don't have enough belongs to fill a wagon.

So, I send it by freight and then I will follow.

By train?

That's the fastest way to travel.

Well, how long will it take you to sever ties with

the medical school and collect your belongings?

Only a few weeks with traveling.

Someday, I'd like to go on a train ride.

Someday, you shall.

Godspeed, Daniel.

Come back as quickly as you can.

Are you going somewhere?

Yes, to the parlor.

You're dressed as if you were going out.

What if I was?

Because it's not a good a idea for a woman

to go out by herself.

Don't be so prudish, Mary Catherine.

I'm only going out for a walk. I'll be fine.

You're going to meet with Byron Lynch, aren't you?

I wouldn't call it a meeting.

He will simply be at the same place I am at the same time.

At the party, I overheard Byron tell you that he'll

be at the mercantile every Tuesday afternoon at two.

It was a thoughtful way of providing an acceptable time

and place for us to meet.

Why doesn't he just ask permission to court you?

How can he with Daddy barely in the grave?

Daddy was alive when he dropped the obvious invitation.

And to imply an accidental meeting seems a bit odd.

He wasn't being devious or doing anything wrong.

He's kind and caring, and he likes me.

Are you sure he likes you and not just your dowry?

You're just jealous because I'm younger than you

and already have an interested beau, and you don't.

- It's not like that at all. - I'm going to be late.

Adeline, you can't go.

You're not my mother and can't order me around.

No, but I will tell Mother.

See if I care!

You're new here?

Yeah! Yeah, I jus-just arrived a little while ago.

Foreman know you're here?

Yeah, I just left his office. He told me to find a bunk.

Name's Tyler Lee.

- Jonas Whitman. - Nice to meet ya, Jonas.

There's a bunk open by me.

Thanks.

Ah, looky here, boys. We got ourselves a new jack.

You got to name?

Uh, Jonas. Jonas Whitman.

Whatta you say, fellows, should we give uh,

Jonas Whitman here a proper welcome?

Better not, Mitch. Remember what happened to Tom Peachy.

What I remember is that boy was milksop, alright?

That's what I remember.

Who's Tom Peachy?

He was the last new hire. See some of these jacks,

uh, they like to do a bit of hazin'.

You know if you ask me, the uh, the boy deserved it.

Uh, with a name like Peachy.

Well, whatta you say, boys,

should be give Jonas here a proper welcome!

You ended up droppin' Tom Peachy, and he broke his leg!

Well, that's one bum leg defendin' another.

This is the only job Tom could get.

He had a family he needed to support, like a lot of us,

and you ruined that for him. Didn't ya?

Alright, alright. Hey, don't get your dander up.

So, we made a mistake. You know if Chopper here

hadn't dropped his side, everything be fine.

Nah, don't go blamin' this on me.

- Well, it's your fault. - I'm just havin' fun.

Man, boy bruise easy.

- Sorry about that. - It's alright, Tyler.

Do all newcomers get hazed?

Mostly.

Whatever happened to Tom Peachy?

Foreman had to have him hauled home on a sleigh.

Where's home?

Some farm about twenty-five miles from here.

I assume he was compensated.

Compensated? You mean like paid money to make up

for gettin' hurt?

Yes. I mean, it wasn't his fault.

Ain't no lumber company that does that sort of thing.

Yeah, Eddie's right. I don't know an operation like that.

- Least of all this one. - Least of all this one?

Is the Rimsdale Lumber Company as bad as that?

Put it to you this way, new boy. I'd rather spend three months

in jail than this lumber camp.

He's joking, right?

Not really.

Then why are you here?

In fact, why are any of these men here?

Only job we can get.

Bad job is better than no job at all.

Yeah, I guess.

Oh, and uh, some of these jacks they're not goin' to

leave you alone until they've some how "welcomed" you.

What do they do besides tossin' you up and down in a blanket?

Force ya to sing a song or

buy a pound of tobacco for all to share.

I can do either of those.

Now, Mitch was a bit steamed.

I'm sure he's thinkin' up something even more humiliating.

Thanks for the warning.

Uh, I'd watch your turkey, also.

Or else you'll find somethin' stolen from it.

My what?

Your turkey.

You are green, aren't ya?

Turkey, it's a, it's a bag that holds all your personal

belongings and any of the clothes

you're not currently wearin'.

I get it.

Oh, and uh, this is Hector.

Ugh, he's the best mousier in the camp.

When he's not doin' his job, he sleeps here.

Why your bunk?

I don't know. Animals just seem to be attracted to me.

Uh, and where can I get one of those?

Jimmie Bower, the barn boy. Uh,

I'm sure he's got some extra grain sacks and pieces of rope.

Which one of these men is Jimmie?

Ahh, none of them. Jimmie sleeps in the barn, not the bunkhouse.

Well, well, I'm going to need some clothes other than these.

I heard there's a camp store.

Uh, yeah. The wanigan is open each night.

I can take you over there.

That's okay. I don't want to look like a child hidin'

behind his mother's skirt.

You may be green, but you're catchin' on fast.

Thanks, Tyler.

Peanuts.

Elias, sign the ledger.

Oh, yeah. I always forget.

What do ya need, Buck?

Tobacco.

That'll be sixty cents.

Sixty cents? That's robbery. It was forty last week!

Can't help it. Prices go up sometimes.

I could buy this in town for thirty cents.

But you Aren't in town.

Um. H-he's right. It does only cost thirty cents back in town.

Look, I don't set the prices. I just do my job as instructed.

Who sets the prices?

The boss, of course.

So, Mr. Rimsdale.

Mr. Rimsdale?

He doesn't know anything that goes on around here.

Nope, It's Mike Doyles.

He's the foreman. He's the boss.

Of course.

Well, what'd you need?

I've just arrived today. First time workin' at lumber camp.

So, I need to be outfitted.

Boots, mackinaw, mittens,

whatever else I need to be a lumberjack.

Well, Mr...

Uh, Jonas Whitman.

Well, Jonas Whitman,

If you thought the tobacco was expensive,

this will cost you quite a bit more.

I understand. But I need to be warm.

While I gather up what you'll need,

take off one of those miserable excuses You're wearing

for shoes so I can measure your foot.

Right.

You got a hat?

Uh, no.

Alright, get your foot up here.

Put your foot right here.

You got pretty small feet.

For a lumberjack.

Well, You're thinkin', alright.

Time for a dance!

- Let's go for a walk. - Hey, boys, careful now! Mitch!

Mitch, come on now.

Alright.

I need seven volunteers.

I said, I said seven.

You know what, you.

You two.

Hey, get in here!

Alright.

- Still need one more, boys. - No, we don't.

Mr. Jonas Whitman here,

is goin' to be our belle of the ball.

Let's get her ready for the dance.

- Yeah, let's get you pretty. - Yeah!

- Ah, she is pretty. - Beautiful.

Woo-hoo!

Yee-haw!

Alright, jacks. That's enough; That's enough.

Haul your backsides back to the bunk. We've got a long

day ahead tomorrow.

As for you, Belle,

anybody can dance. Let's see how you do

when the trees start comin' down.

I can't tolerate this boring life any longer!

What's the matter, Adeline?

For weeks We've sat around doing nothing!

We're in mourning, Adeline.

I don't think Daddy would have us be like this.

He would have us mourn for a week or two,

but then he would have us move on.

She's right. It's what Daniel said before he left.

He said we should continue some entertaining to keep

people from making assumptions as to our financial state.

I think he also meant it for Adeline.

We shall plan a card party in a fortnight.

Really, Mother?

Yes, Adeline.

Now, we need to ask Thomas and Anna Taylor,

for certain. And that will be four because we need to include

Benjamin and Sarah.

And Mr. and Mrs. Lynch will need to be present

as well as Priscilla and Byron.

That will be fine.

Then it's settled?

That's... hey!

Listen up. Watch for fallin' branches.

Many a jack's been injured or killed by a dead branch

That's dislodged from a tree We're workin' on.

Stay off the skidway as much as possible.

Tromp on the snow instead.

And don't let any of these boys goad ya into not wearin'

your hat. Without your hat you'll eventually end up with

cauliflower ears.

Cauliflower ears?

Yeah, from the frost bite.

Hey, could we get some more sausages here?

Hey, cook, got any more flapjacks?

That's it, boys. That's all we got this morning.

Finish up, now, and get out of here.

I ain't got time for your complainin'.

Tell you what, I did not get enough food. Did you?

Nope.

Cook always run out of food?

Yeah. But It's not his fault. He's got a limited pantry

to work from.

Why? I mean, men need lots of food to keep goin'.

That's all the boss allows.

Oh, so, Mike Doyles?

Who else would I mean?

I don't know, Mr. Rimsdale?

I heard he's dead and gone. But That's no matter,

It's not like he cared much about us before.

Quit your jabberin'. Get on your way.

Yes, sir.

It's about placement really. Just go here. Go.

Go down there and try somethin'.

There it is.

Right here.

What's the matter, belle of the ball?

Sawin' a few trees whoop ya?

Yes, it did. I got to hand it to you and the rest of the crew.

You are the hardest workin' people I've ever met.

Don't be cozyin' up to me saying stuff like that.

Hey, my umm, my saw's missin' a couple of teeth and I,

I couldn't cut melted butter.

The dentist will already know about it.

He looks after the saws every night when we come in.

Uh, dentist?

Filer. The man who does the upkeep of the saws.

Alright.

Evening.

Question for you, uh...

Look, I don't have time for questions.

I got men goin' out to log tomorrow.

I got a lot of work to do before that.

Understood.

Besides that, I already know your question.

"Why don't we have good saws?"

Would you like some help?

You know how to work on saws?

I-I can't repair the teeth, but I can sharpen them.

Then, I accept your offer.

Alright.

Tools are over there.

Seems like you've had some experience.

On my, my last occupation I had to make sure all of my tools

were as sharp as possible at all times.

My name's Lewis Keppin. What's yours?

Jonas Whitman.

You a sawyer?

Or does the foreman have you doing some other job?

Sawyer.

Actually, I'm, I'm attempting to be a sawyer.

It's my first day on the job, and my muscles are screaming.

So,

Even if a saw is as sharp as it can be,

crosscut sawing those big trees

is not work for the feeble.

No. No, there is no job in this camp for the weak.

Yeah.

None of life is easy.

True enough.

But I mean this,

this has got to be your last one, yes?

Nah, I'm just getting started.

What?

I got to sharpen and repair all the saws through the night

so that they're ready for the mornin'.

No. You wouldn't get it done in time.

You have to have spares somewhere.

Wish I did, but I don't.

Does the foreman know you need more equipment?

Says there's no money to purchase any.

Hmm.

Well, I'm here with you.

Still sore from yesterday?

Oh, yes. I didn't know a person could hurt in so many places.

Well, it gets easier after the first week.

- Let's go. - Oh, makes me feel some better.

- I'll get the saw. - Alright.

Come on you laggards. Move it!

- Oh, watch out for that. - Yep

Hurry up!

You, straight in here.

River pig! Come here. Bring Belle with you.

- Left. - Uh, look snappy.

Or else he'll find a way to make us miserable later.

Let's go!

Belle, got your dancin' shoes on?

Sure.

Good. That's your first tree. Let's go.

Alright.

Woah, woah. Where'd you get this saw?

Off the pile.

We don't have saws that sharp.

- Mitch? - Yeah?

Come here. Bring your saw.

Swap saws with him.

Swap saws?

Yeah, are you deaf. Swap saws.

I'd rather stick with this one, boss.

It was the sharpest one on the pile.

- Joel! - Last night Th-the filer had

more saws to sharpen then he could get done.

So, I volunteered to help out.

Get to work. Get to work! Let's go!

Get outta here!

Jesus, is he always this irritable?

No, He's in a good mood today.

You gonna to eat that apple?

- You want it? - Yeah.

- Absolutely. - Thanks.

I'll save that for later.

Get back to the barn.

I'm tired of hearin' the same ol' tune with you.

Fodder for horses that work as hard as these animals

requires additional grain. Hay alone will not sustain them

That's why I set aside the extra expense for the grain.

A-and I'm grateful for that. But the amount of grain you've

provided is far too small. These are large animals

I'm well aware that horses are large animals.

But the fodder you got is the fodder you got.

They can't continue on under these circumstances.

Yes, they can.

That's what whips are for.

No!

Jimmie, you are one step away from being fired.

Get back to the barn.

Hey.

Looks like this is all we got.

That's a good boy.

Evening.

Evening! What can I do for ya?

Well, I just thought I'd stop by and introduce myself.

I haven't seen ya at any of the meals or anything.

I'm Jonas Whitman.

Nice to meet you. I'm Jimmie Bower

I couldn't help but overhear your conversation with

the foreman just now.

Sorry about that.

Don't apologize. It sounds like It's not the first time

you've come to the foreman with your problems.

No, It's not.

So, how have the horses kept up if they've been short

on grain all season?

Well, they wouldn't have been able to, so...

You purchased the grain out of your own pocket, didn't you?

Well, I, I don't have a wife. I don't drink, I don't gamble.

So,

I figured I'd spend the money on something I love.

But to supplement the grain needed for these horses for

the entire season, that would take your whole paycheck.

I don't need much.

You know, I've curried a horse or two in my life.

If you don't mind, I'd love to stick around and help you out.

Yeah. Love the help and the company.

Alright.

So, What's this fellow's name?

- That's Jack. - Jack. And?

King. They're a good team.

Jonas Whitman. Been snoopin' around.

The big boss

doesn't like people leakin' our information

'bout how we do business around here, right?

Yeah.

He's given me permission

to do whatever it takes

to stop that from happenin'.

What'd you got in mind?

An accident.

What's in it for me?

Good morning, Miss Rimsdale.

Watch out!

- Move out of the way! - Ahh!

Tyler!

Hey, you two alright?

I've been better.

Branch hit my bum leg.

I think that's a good thing.

Couldn't get much worse than it already is. Okay. Alright.

Hey! This is dangerous work, people.

Looks like they're both alright.

Let's get back to work. We got woods to clear.

Let's go!

Woo!

Oyy!

Let's go, guys. Come on.

Let's go, boys!

So, what are you going to do now that logging season's over?

I don't know yet.

- Next. - What about you?

I don't know. I'm going to head home and

see what kind of work I can get there.

Next.

Pretty boy. Three weeks' worth of work.

Less your wanigan purchases. There you go.

We'll see ya next season. Maybe.

I think you made a mistake. I signed on for a dollar a day and

even after my wanigan purchases,

I should be getting five more dollars than this.

You think so? Sales were low this year.

Everybody got shorted, not just you.

Now maybe logging isn't your thing.

Maybe next season you try dancing.

Next!

Maybe I'll see you next season.

I hope so.

Psst! Whatcha' reading?

You're home!

How you doing, bud?

Daniel's home! Daniel's home! Daniel's home!

You've arrived just in time. We're hosting a card party

- in a few days! - Oh, That's wonderful.

- Welcome home, son. - Aww, mo...

I hope the administration wasn't too hard on you

when you resigned from classes.

No. No, they were just fine.

Your belongings from the school arrived just yesterd...

That's excellent.

We had Miles put them in your room.

Thank you, dear.

We've invited eight people to the party.

And they've all accepted!

One of the crates was cracked open.

- I hope you don't mind. - And mother and I have

been working on the menu.

It's extraordinary what I'm reading!

The refreshments will be light, but of the most delicious kind.

You look a bit bedraggled.

Mary Catherine.

Oh, thank you for the compliment, Mary Catherine.

We're going to wear Daniel out.

We should give him a moment to breathe.

Yes, I would certainly love a nice hot bath.

Of course, it must have been a long train ride.

- Mother. - Yes, that it was.

Nervous?

I-I will depend upon you and Adeline to cover any of my

errors in social management.

You will make a fine host.

Thank you.

Did we receive any payments from the invoices

you sent while I was away?

Not yet.

I'll go get Mother.

Are you ready, Mother?

Yes, I...

Oh, What's the matter?

The last time we hosted a social event your father-

Oh, you don't have to come down.

I must. I'll be fine,

It's just,

Here, here.

Oh, thank you.

Mother, what are these?

Pardon?

These packets?

Oh, those are headache powders.

I didn't realize you were having headaches.

- You should have told me. - They're not for me.

They were your father's.

I don't recall Father having headaches.

Ah, They started fairly recently, I realize now that the

headaches probably began because of the financial stress.

It seems that Silas suffers from the same head pain.

Do they work?

Oh, yes. Your father took them quite frequently to

to keep the headaches at bay.

Alright, Daniel.

I'm ready for you to escort me downstairs.

It would be my pleasure, Mother.

Benjamin, I am pleased to finally

spend some time with you. I'm sorry I've been in

transition back home, haven't had the opportunity to meet you.

We really haven't been here too long, just four months,

so don't feel badly about making my acquaintance until this.

You will enjoy getting to know Daniel.

I have known him for many years.

We've practically grown up together, haven't we, Daniel?

Yes, yes, we have, uhh, been

at several of the same social social functions.

Daniel has been away at medical school.

But now He's given up that career to help his family.

I had heard that. That must have been quite

heart-wrenching to relinquish your chosen profession.

I know if I was forced out of what I am doing,

that would be most unsettling.

And What's your occupation?

I am a junior partner in my father's law firm.

I've worked for him since the age of sixteen,

Uhh, except for the years that I was away at law school.

Oh, those were some troubling years.

I'll tell you about them sometime, I'm sure you've had

some similar experiences with your schooling.

Mrs. Lynch, I understand that Priscilla has become

quite the musician.

My daughter has been playing the pianoforte since the age of five

I am certain she is the most skilled in the valley.

Of course, that is not a slight to your skills, Mary Catherine.

I would've never have thought that, Mrs. Lynch.

What a dear little boy.

How clever of you to include him with the adult company.

I didn't know children knew how to play cards.

Since Daddy's death we include him in all that we do.

He's a prolific reader, and learned card strategies

from a book. More recently, however, He's been reading

the farmer's almanac and has discovered that this summer

is to be one of the most glorious.

Then we'll definitely have to plan some outings

in the expected pleasant weather.

An excellent idea. A midsummer picnic! Wouldn't that be fun!

M-my father started our law firm twenty-five years ago.

Thankfully, it's been successful. Uh, More recently

we decided to move out here as Father wanted to

participate in the lumber boom taking place.

Uh, Not that he's going to be in the lumber business,

but he's been a little bit weary sometimes of the types of cases

he normally does. So, he was hoping that the lumber business

would afford a change in the type of cases that we

typically litigate. It's your turn, Miss Lynch.

So, instead of persisting in the regular, mundane legal work, uh,

we decided to take an adventure, and It's been quite exciting.

I could tell you a story abo...

I'm sure you could, Mr. Taylor, but if you don't mind, some of

the rest of us may like to be a part of the conversation.

Miss Lynch, my most sincere apologies.

I didn't realize that I was monopolizing the conversation.

Certainly, that was not my intention. I, in the future,

I will be certain and most cautious not to make

the same grievous social error as that would be...

Mr. Taylor, you are doing it again.

Honestly, you could talk the hind leg off a mule.

So, what do you think of the Chippewa Valley, Anna?

Well, I don't think I'm ready to call it home just yet,

but, I do think, in time, that I will.

It's been a big change for all of us, but It's been

most difficult for Anna.

Living in Chicago is very different than living here.

I personally am very grateful to be out of the big city.

I've wanted to live in a more rustic setting for some time.

So, what drew you here?

People like Mr. Lynch.

What is your interest in the barons?

Well, there were several business people in the area

who requested more legal support.

The lumber business is complicated.

Elizabeth, have you reconsidered my offer?

I have, and the answer stands.

You shouldn't put your trust in Daniel.

As fine a young man as he is,

he will not be able to recover your failing business.

Mr. Lynch, we are gathered for a polite evening

of social entertainment. Please refrain from making

dire predictions about our business.

Of course.

We're gathering in the dining room

for some light refreshments.

As soon as your trick is finished, please join us.

There you are. I've been lookin' for you.

I hope you don't mind. Mary Catherine was practicing

so I decided to read in here.

Of course, I don't mind. You know You're always

welcome in this study.

Thanks.

Why were you lookin' for me?

I want your help.

Mine? Doing what?

Before I tell you that, I have to explain something first

and you have to keep to yourself, alright?

Remember when I was gone for those three weeks?

Yes, you took the train to Madison.

I didn't really go to Madison.

How far is the lumber camp from here?

Probably only another five minutes.

We're shavin' off about thirty walkin' through these woods.

All of this belongs to us?

Yes, and much more. Grandpa Lindler left us many

thousands of acres.

How many acres?

Well, after what Father sold and after Mary Catherine

and Adeline's dowry is taken out, about 75,000.

How many acres does the average lumber baron own?

About 50,000.

Daniel, do you think you'll have to sell land to keep

the business in operation?

I sure hope not. It's the standing timber on these acres

that makes us the money. If we, uh, lose that, we're losin' our

largest asset.

Camp's just over that rise.

I'll wait here for you to deliver the letter.

I'm looking for Jimmie Bower, right?

Jimmie Bower.

Excuse me.

What can I do for you?

Are you Jimmie Bower?

What do you want with Jimmie?

I have a letter to deliver to him.

How 'bout I take you over to him.

Hey, Jimmie, you got a visitor.

You're here to see me?

Yes, sir, if you are Jimmie Bower.

Yeah, That's me.

I have a letter to deliver to you.

I have to be going now. Good bye.

- Who's it from? - I don't know. Let me open it.

That header, Jimmie! It's from the Rimsdale Lumber Company.

Hey, quit, quit breathin' down my neck, would ya?

It's signed by Daniel Rimsdale himself!

I see it! Let me read it!

Mr. Doyles isn't comin' back.

Mr. Rimsdale wants me to watch the camp and the money's to

- pay me for doin' it. - Hahaha.

- Wooo! Woo! - Hahahaha!

Hey, hey, Cook, Cook, Cook, You're scaring the horses.

I asked you here today to discuss your role as foreman

for the Rimsdale Lumber Company.

You may be seated, Mr. Doyles.

You said you were Jonas Whitman.

Yes, I used an alias as I did not wish you or anyone else

to know who I was as I worked in the lumber camp.

I've delineated the punishable crimes that you've committed

against my company.

Embezzlement is at the top of the list.

You, you can't prove any of this.

Actually, Mr. Doyles, I can

and know that from this moment,

you're released from my employment.

You're gonna regret this.

Maybe you didn't hear me, Mr. Doyles.

You are dismissed.

Mr. Lynch? It's Doyles.

It's highly irregular, Mr. Doyles, for you to visit me

without my express invitation.

Daniel Rimsdale just fired me.

Well,

the young whelp has more spine than I thought.

I did everything you told me to.

Why are you so upset? You have the salary I paid you and the

skimmings from the camp.

He's threatenin' to tell the constable everything.

Don't worry. He's got no proof.

He was there.

What do you mean, "he was there?"

He was an off-season hire. He came in,

told me his name was Jonas Whitman.

How was I supposed to know it was Daniel Rimsdale, Jr.?

So, you brought about your own demise.

Look, if I go down for this, You're goin' down too.

I want money, a lot of money.

Are you trying to blackmail me.

I have you over a barrel, Silas.

I paid you in cash.

It's your word against mine.

Look, when you told me to sabotage the Rimsdale business,

I asked you about Rimsdale, Sr. You said you'd take care of it.

I know how you took care of it.

So, the offer better be good.

Come with me.

We'll talk all about money.

So, What's the offer?

Now, besides paying you well,

I have a way to get back at Daniel Rimsdale,

if you're interested.

Thank you.

Thank you, Gretchen.

- Hello. - Good morning.

Hi. Anything for the Rimsdales?

No, sir. I'm sorry. Nothing's come in.

Thank you.

This might just work.

The logs that we would bring into your mill are of

the best quality. I'm sure other lumber companies could bring in

good timber, but I don't believe they're gonna offer you

the discount that I'm offering, in exchange for cash

in advance payment, before the delivery of the product.

What kind of discount, ya got in mind?

Thirty percent, sir.

You got my attention.

So, if I pay you in advance, you'll reduce your price

for this order to the amount listed here?

That is correct, sir.

You have yourself a deal.

I really don't think you'll find a better deal

in the whole of Chippewa Valley.

It is a lucrative offer.

You do have some business sense to you.

Yes, I will take you up on your proposition.

Sorry to keep you waiting, Mr. Lynch.

It took me a few moments to gather them all.

Thank you, Miles.

It's a shame you had to come here yourself, sir.

Well, my servants are out and this headache is bad enough

to motivate me to do just about anything to relieve it.

Say, before I go home,

Uhh, may I see Mr. Rimsdale for just a moment, please?

I'm sorry, but he is out right now.

Oh. Well, then perhaps,

later on today, when my headache is gone.

Actually, he'll be leaving after lunch for the lumber camp

and won't return until tomorrow.

Is that right?

Well, I'll catch him some other time then.

I hope you feel better soon, sir.

I heard you coming upstairs, Mr. Rimsdale and noted you left your

tea in the parlor. Shall I bring it up?

No, thank you, Miles; I'm here to gather my father's

headache powders.

I'm sorry, sir, but I gave them to Mr. Lynch

just a few hours ago.

Silas Lynch?

Yes. He's been having headaches and he came to collect them.

I did ask Mrs. Rimsdale's permission before she left if

it was all right to give them to him.

Are there any other packets about the house?

I'm sorry, sir. I would never have given them back

had I known you needed them.

Thank you, Miles.

You'll go tonight as Daniel won't be home.

It'll make things easier.

I almost wish he would be there.

Focus on the job. Don't bungle this.

Jonas! It's good to see ya.

It's good to see you.

So, uh, what, what brought you up?

I wanted to come by and introduce myself.

I know you, Jonas.

Jimmie Bower, I'm Daniel Rimsdale.

It's nice to officially meet you.

You're gonna catch some flies with your mouth open like that.

Well, I, uhh, I don't understand. Yo...

Right. Uh, my father passed away earlier this year and so,

I had to take over the company. And, you know, I know nothin'

of the lumber business, so I decided to come in at ground

level and get an accurate picture of how my

business was being ran.

So, nobody on the camp knew that you were the owner?

No one.

Not even the foreman?

Especially not the foreman. Nah, no one had ever met me before,

so it was pretty easy to slip by unrecognized.

Well, that was pretty smart on your part.

Well, I'm hopin' to put what I've learned to good use.

Which leads me to the exact reason for my visit.

Mike Doyles will not be returning, and I need to

hire a new foreman.

I don't really know anybody that would be up for the job.

I mean, I don't know if I have any recommendations for you.

I already have the person in mind. You.

I-I don't have any experience.

But you have everything that I want in a foreman.

I need someone who will help me grow the business, together,

and, and I'd really like that person to be you.

I, I don't know anything about running the books for the

men's pay or the purchases from the wanigan. I mean

It's alright. We'll figure it out together.

And I'll stop by throughout the season.

What do you say?

Well, if you're willin' to help me get my feet on ground,

I, I'd be willing to give it a try.

Yeah?

But, one important question.

Who will be takin' care of those guys?

Ah. Yeah, I-I, I figured you would be worried about

the horses. So, I have yet to ask him, but I know someone

who would be perfect for the job.

Tyler Lee.

He's a good man.

Now, I need to go meet with the cook and the filer.

Then thirty minutes, meet me down in the foreman's office.

We got work to do.

Yes, sir!

I got a question for ya.

You remember when you were here and you helped

me sharpen the saws?

Where'd you learn to file like that?

Medical school. As doctors in training we had to make sure

that our saws and scalpels were sharp at all times.

Now, I do have a question for you.

Yeah?

Will you show me your dream list?

Alright.

File.

Hello?

Mary Catherine?

Adeline, is that you?

Oh!

Miles, what's going on?

Someone broke in last night.

They're fine.

Oh, Daniel, you're home.

In the middle of the night, someone broke in.

He was in the Belvedere.

I heard some noises, and I thought it was one of the girls.

And mother went upstairs to investigate.

By herself!

Then the burglar hurtled down the stairs knocking mother over.

- Are you all right? - I'm shaken, but unharmed.

How did he get in?

Over there. The window was wide open.

Alright, did he take anything?

No, the room was torn apart, but everything seems to be there.

I think I surprised him early in his attempt.

Did you see who it was?

No, he was masked. But I know of only one person who would

want to get into the Belvedere.

We have no proof.

Silas Lynch worries me, but it is another Lynch male

that bothers me most. I'm afraid for Adeline.

But we have to be careful not to hold Byron accountable

for anything his father may or may not have done.

I understand, but I wouldn't trust a Lynch farther

than I could toss him.

I'll go get my things.

Mr. Taylor, I need your advice.

It has been almost three months and despite my efforts to

collect on the overdue accounts no one has yet paid.

You can begin a legal collection process.

So, I-I can just inform them that their account will

be turned over to a lawyer for collection?

Yes, that's correct. You have several legal alternatives.

- Thank you, Mr. Taylor. - You're welcome.

Going out?

Yes.

Would you like some company?

I could really use an hour or two away from the accounts.

Thank you, but no.

It's just that I'm supposed to meet someone.

Byron Lynch does business every Tuesday at the mercantile,

and I meet him there as often as I can. And we wander up and down

the aisles looking at the merchandise and chatting about

so many things.

You remind me of a passion flower.

A passion flower?

Yes. You're beautiful and, and vibrant and

you approach life with an exuberance that I envy.

Of the four of us children,

you're certainly the most like Father.

He loved the thrill of social interaction just as I do.

Yes, you are watered and you blossom by it, and so was he.

I miss him, Daniel.

So much.

He was a passion flower, also.

But the worry with a passion flower

is that it is easily crushed.

Daddy wasn't crushed.

I think that he was.

The responsibility of the lumber business is a great weight.

I think that's why he turned to parties so much.

Grandpa Lindler did not. He, he built the business

from the ground up. He thrived on it.

But Daddy didn't

and it crushed him.

I think that's why the business failed.

You're not a passion flower, are you?

No. I think a mudwort would be a more apt description.

Remember

that passion flowers are,

are so bright that sometimes

they won't see the darkness in others.

I don't ever want you crushed.

The reason I called this meeting is

to inform everyone of my will.

Please don't talk of dying, Mother.

Don't worry, Adeline, I'm just trying to put things in order

while I'm still clear-minded and able-bodied.

Aren't wills supposed to be kept a secret until somebody dies?

In some families, yes. And I'm not going to reveal

all my will tonight. But there is one part that

I want you all to know now.

This house is near and dear to my heart.

So, as your grandfather had hoped,

no matter what happens, I want it always to stay in the

Rimsdale family. Therefore, I've set up a provision that

the house can never to be sold.

It must always be owned by a Rimsdale or

a Rimsdale direct descendant. Upon my death, the house

will pass from me to my children in age order:

Mary Catherine, Daniel, Adeline

and finally to Colin.

If one of you doesn't want the house

then it will go to the next person in line.

I like that very much! The house will always be in the family.

It's a wonderful way to preserve our heritage.

It's a good plan, Mother.

I think Grandpa Lindler would have liked it, too.

I think so too.

- Hundred. - Hundred? Two dollars.

- Thank you. - Thank you.

I'll be in town for a bit.

Are you going to see Byron Lynch?

As a matter of fact, I am.

Adeline, do you think Byron is the right person for you?

That's a good question, and one to which I've given

considerable thought lately.

Oh, really? I thought you were smitten.

I do like Byron.

He's been very kind to me, but...

So, why are you going to see him now?

I want to know that his devotion to me

is truly authentic.

Are you just going to ask him straight out?

No, I was planning on being more subtle.

Oh, I almost forgot! You are invited to a mid-summer picnic,

your sister and parents as well.

We'll be sending out invitations soon.

Are you going to be there?

'Course.

Then, I will most certainly be in attendance.

Wonderful.

You're deep in thought.

I was thinking of the

family meeting we just had.

Family meeting?

Yes, my mother has come up with a unique way of ensuring

that the house always stays in the family.

Really?

Yes. When she dies our mansion will pass to Mary Catherine.

Then if Mary Catherine doesn't want it or dies,

it will pass to Daniel and so on.

Then the tradition of the oldest son inheriting

first will not apply.

I hope your brother is not too disappointed.

Not at all.

You are your father's heir, are you not?

Yes, all this will be mine.

He likes Adeline.

Love does not create financial security.

How was your visit with Adeline?

It was fine.

All is well with the Rimsdales?

Yes.

We couldn't help but overhear that Mary Catherine

is now the legal hire of the Rimsdale mansion.

Why does it matter?

If you wed Mary Catherine, we will own the house.

I'm not interested in Mary Catherine.

I like Adeline,

and she has just as large a dowry as her sister.

That will certainly be enough to add to the family coffers.

As far as the house goes, I don't care.

You need to care. There's treasure in the Belvedere.

If you wed Adeline, her dowry's not enough to cover our

financial deficits. If you wed Mary Catherine,

our family's future will be secured.

Mr. Rimsdale. Miss Rimsdale.

Thank you!

I have to again express my thanks for your legal advice.

Any response yet?

Yes! Seven accounts are now paid in full.

- Ah! - Hahaha.

Miles found this

in the pocket of his jacket.

He forgot he had it there on the night of the party

when my father died.

Well, this will certainly help to either confirm or deny

your suspicions. I'll have it examined and let you know.

Have you spoken with Mike Doyles yet?

He's dead.

Daniel, oh, Daniel!

Won't you sit with us, Daniel?

Yes, I would.

Hello.

Excuse me.

Mother, do you have a moment?

Yes, of course.

Here is a summary of the past due accounts.

Eighty percent are now paid in full.

Daniel, thank you.

It wasn't all me.

Without Grandfather Lindler I never could have done it.

Daniel, the journal...

It's the treasure!

- We found it! - Hahahaha.

Any news on the headache powders?

Yes, and the results were positive.

Silas Lynch will stand trial for murder.

Tonight is a time of celebration as a difficult spring

and summer are behind us, and a bright new logging season ahead.

Daniel, It's quite commendable, your reversal of a

failing lumber business. In my years of business law,

which is limited of course because of length of time that

I've been practicing which is

relatively short, uh, which I be...

I believe that it speaks of Daniel's determination and wit.

Well, I had a good helper.

And the very best of teachers.

I, too, have learned from the best of teachers,

that instructor in this case is my father, of course,

- that to achie... - How about a toast?

To the lumber business of the Chippewa Valley.

To friends.

To hope.

- Hear, hear. - Indeed.

Cheers.