Original subtitles

Historical truth is sometimes stranger than fiction.

James Bowie was an example...

literally engraving his name in the story...

to become an American legend.

Near the town of Bayou Sara, Louisiana, 1825.

- Why are you hitting me? - I am pissed.

Well, control yourself.

You're not doing very well here, Mr. Jim.

I do not know why I'm laughing like that.

I have to wash their clothes.

Come on, Mr. Jim.

It's a good throw of knives.

I can still hear that blade hissing near my ear.

- Mr. Jim, you never miss. - Of course not.

Truce of chatter. At work.

- So, mom, I win the trip? - You well deserved it.

I hoped that Rezin would have won.

He already has a city suit. I have to make you one.

No one in this family can go to New Orleans...

having the appearance that you always had.

John, go get my meter. Change of shirt.

There is 164 dollars here. If John or Rezin went there...

I would be sure that he would have 100 left on his return. But you?

- Are you going to surprise me? - I always surprised you, right?

Some things cost money in New Orleans.

Well, do not go near it.

We will not worry about that. Sell this wood at a good price.

They are clever, these buyers.

They will give you a price for cypress and another for pine.

Have them take the set as it is.

Do not worry about me. I have as much Scottish blood as you.

I wonder. Did not you pay the blacksmith...

$ 30 for a $ 10 rifle?

- I won the turkey shot. - How much was the turkey?

- Two pieces. - Mom, measure it quickly.

We must bring this wood to the river.

We? You are now in the presence of James Bowie, businessman.

You can be a businessman once in New Orleans.

Over here, you're still the good for nothing of the family.

It is to the winner that the prize belongs.

- Wait. Measures. - It will not suit you anyway.

You'll be much smaller once you're done with it.

Maria? Go get me the Bible.

I must refresh my memory on the Prodigal Son.

Bread.

NEW ORLEANS

Good fresh bread.

- Do you make money, Will? - It's okay.

- Happy to learn it, me no. - I have apples.

My birds! How can you do this to my birds?

Your painted birds do not pay rent. And you neither.

But my other suit. My painting. My brushes.

Your other suit, your paint and your brushes, you'll see them...

when you gave me the money.

All right, ma'am. Children and gentlemen are present.

- My bird. - Nice. But not really a bird.

When I paint a bird, it is a bird until the last pen.

- Always, I paint alive. - Like this?

Well, I start with the living.

But some paintings take time.

I understand why you like to take your time for this one.

Mademoiselle de Bornay.

Whoever it is, no man should leave it unfinished.

The painted bird or the painted beauty?

I prefer the bird. It's thanks to her...

that my beautiful paintings have no roof over their heads.

I have never painted a bird.

But I hunted hundreds.

It's unfortunate, sir, that you're leaving...

just when I arrive.

Sir saw a wren, perhaps?

A wren? Of course. Full.

Good. Good. I never found one.

I always wanted to meet a man who would talk to me about it.

- Well, come in. - But the owner...?

That is true. Good shot.

Stay out of the line of fire.

Do not call me darling. You do not see that I'm busy...

- I'd like a room. - Certainly.

You have nothing to do?

- Mr. Boowie? - Bowie.

- Bayou Sara. - I see.

I have a guest.

Can you register both, please?

Thank you.

What is your name?

Audubon.

John James Audubon.

- Many names, right? - For sure.

For sure.

You need money.

If only you finish this.

She is a beautiful girl from New Orleans, proud and spoiled.

I would rather starve than beg.

Looks like you're not far.

Maybe if someone else...

Even me.

I tell you, I have considered all possibilities.

His mother...!

She thinks I have dined with Rembrandt and Velasquez.

His brother does not like anything else...

than to drink and bet on Saint Sylvain.

What is a poor Quaker artist for them?

Saint Sylvain? Where is it?

Please. You have been very kind. Very kind.

But I would prefer that one of these days...

you showed me the wren.

One day.

It's not wise.

They do not like me there. And I do not like them.

- Hat, sir? - No thanks.

But Sir.

I tell you, these steamers will change everything.

You will see the cotton fields extend to Natchez and beyond.

You want to bet on it?

He is right. You do not know what happened to the price of land.

Buy the right parcel, you can make a fortune.

I prefer to win mine here. It's closer. More comfortable.

But, sir, thank you, but I do not drink.

Well! The Quaker dauber.

- Please please. - The Quaker dauber...

who considers birds more important than my sister.

But, sir, my admiration for miss goes beyond words.

I apologize most servilely. It was a misunderstanding.

You made it wait 3 weeks before the second appointment.

I was in the bayou, I was looking for herons.

- There were delays. - Herons?

While my sister was waiting?

You heard his excuse.

You might have the courtesy to let him finish.

Who are you, sir, to talk to me about courtesy?

A boor of the fields? This is none of your business.

All that has to do with him concerns me.

If not, do you make it look like you?

- Your name, sir? - Jim Bowie.

You will hear about my friends.

What does he mean?

You've been challenged, and all because of me.

You must not fight.

I'm dueling for a similar story?

It's the code.

What do you know? Two cognacs.

- You have to leave the city. - I can not.

My brothers and I own a sawmill. I have to sell the wood.

- It takes time. - Mr. Bowie.

This gentleman is Mr. Juan Moreno de Natchez.

- My name is Philippe Cabanal. - Your humble servant.

Monsieur de Bornay has instructed us to arrange the terms of the duel...

as you please, since you are the one who was provoked.

He asked us to ask you about the excuses you expect.

Excuses? I do not understand.

Monsieur de Bornay is a gentleman...

whose courage has never been questioned.

He also has an unusual sense of honor.

He asks us to inform you that...

having realized that he was slightly intoxicated...

he feels that an apology is due to you. Do you accept them?

Well, I think so. But if he wants to apologize...

why does not he do it with Mr. Aubudon?

- He will do it. - Now that's arranged...

please please decline your names...

and inform us of the time, place and choice of weapons.

Wait. Did not you say that Monsieur was going to apologize?

Does this not cancel a duel?

Of course not. Monsieur de Bornay would never dare...

to deprive you of the right to defend your honor.

Tell him I'll give him my answer as soon as possible.

You see? We should never have come here.

As I told you, I'm not a man who drinks...

but could you offer me another drink?

Two more, please.

Juanita, did you find my fan?

- Yes. I bring it. - Well, hurry up.

Warning. Pay attention. The dress is only built.

- You can not wear it here! - I'll wear it here.

Why can not I see what it looks like here?

- I'm not sure of the color. - But it becomes so much you.

If she's my hairdresser, tell her to wait.

- Upstairs in my room. - Yes, Miss Judalon.

Hello sir.

Jim Bowie, I'm coming to see Mr. Narcissus of Bornay.

Have you waited, sir?

I was expecting to see your second, sir.

I do not have a habit...

to go through intermediaries for personal matters.

And a duel is the most personal thing.

I agree.

This is a rather subtle observation for an inhabitant of the forest.

Very good. Time, weapons.

First of all, I am grateful for your apologies.

My terms are: When it will snow in New Orleans.

Weapons, snowballs.

It does not snow in New Orleans.

I can wait.

Sir, although the proposal is frivolous...

I recognize goodwill.

Should we hope that the winters in New Orleans are sweet?

Thank you. And for Mr. Aubudon?

Aubudon? Does he not accept my apologies?

Yes, but that does not give him a roof.

Could he not finish the portrait of your sister?

It is a delicate problem, it is better to talk about a drink.

As long as he has debts to your family, no one will want them.

He has to paint portraits to make a living.

It will not impress my sister.

She does not like playing the second violins for a bird.

Second violins for what?

I am honored to introduce Mr. James Bowie.

Sir, my sister, who does not surprise me anymore.

Miss Judalon Daphne Serafin de Bornay.

Bowie? This is not the gentleman against whom you will fight.

It's him, but I'm happy to say we will not fight.

So one of you must have been sensible...

and I can not believe it's my brother.

As you see, sir, my sister does not appreciate me.

It may be that, being his brother, I can not be a suitor.

Do you like the dress, sir?

Very nice choice. The prettiest I have ever seen.

Indeed. It may be okay.

We give a ball in this house Thursday in eight.

Will you be our guest?

- Well... - Yes of course.

I am so happy that you like the dress.

Mr. Audubon may have a chance to finish the picture after all.

- Where did you forget? - No. Cheers.

I am now going to train with my fencing instructor.

- Do you want to join me? - Fencing?

I do not know anything about swords.

You do not know anything about swords? My jacket.

Sir, a man who catches the attention of my lovely sister...

would do better to learn.

I could never equal the master.

Jim, why do not you try?

I never touched it.

- Try with me, then. - Okay.

- Allow me, sir. - Thank you.

Here, please?

I need a glove?

You give me everything.

Bend your knees, sir. You have to bend your knees.

It's not so bad.

Are you still serious with a gun in your hand?

I would not like to see you when it's serious.

I am better with a whip.

It might be wiser to stick to the gun.

I know how to use a rifle...

but I never fired a pistol...

except the day of independence.

And yet, you were ready to accept my challenge?

Certain. Maybe I should have choose something like this.

It's easier to handle.

It's a Spanish cuchillo, made to throw.

It's too bad that nobody uses it here.

- Are you throwing the knife? - A little.

Mr. Bowie will throw a knife.

I would drink a drink. And you?

Two sherry punch, please.

- You have been very good. - I missed it by 30 cm.

But it seems like you're good at throwing knives.

If I fought a duel, that's what I would choose.

- A knife? In a duel? - Why not?

Sir, a duel should be art...

great tragedy, beautiful, honorable.

Honor is precious for a gentleman.

Without her, he's like a beast.

Bravery, artistic talent, honor...

are the essential values of the duel.

Death is only the fall of the curtain.

It's good for the winners. But the losers?

Has anyone gone on their graves...

ask them what they think of their beautiful death?

You make it a personal question, sir?

Do what you want.

Narcissus, I remember that he is your friend.

You ruined the morning of Contrecourt.

I am sorry.

But a murder is a murder. There is no need to add.

I would prefer to say that I never killed...

rather than brag about how I did it.

This discussion is too creepy for such a beautiful morning.

It's time for me to talk to my tailor.

You will need something different for the ball.

- Please! - Patience.

- How many mister's tails? - Two, at least.

- One of the new capes? - Incontestably.

And a long baggy pants?

- What else? - Wait.

We must clarify something.

When will I have my baggy trousers?

Patience. No worries. I will offer you the latest models.

You will be another person.

- How long? - We are harassed for work.

But I can arrange otherwise for your friend.

- Let's say, in a fortnight? - After tomorrow.

- The ball is next week. - You will wait so long...

before arranging a session for Audubon?

Mademoiselle has an eye for clothes as much as for the shoulders.

After tomorrow.

Very good, the day after tomorrow.

But I'll have to make the store work day and night...

and make wait for gentlemen.

But as you say, the day after tomorrow.

- But but... - Patience.

How can I pay for this?

I wish he had not been so eager to satisfy you.

I owe him $ 3,000.

He can afford to upset the paying customer.

As I do not pay, my power increases with the years.

I see.

- But Sir! - Patience!

You become very good.

This is the first I see.

You do not have any music at all up there?

Yes, violins. People play flute and banjo.

Dancers and broom jumps.

Broom jumps?

It's a kind of wedding custom.

Priests do not go to the bayous very often.

When a young couple is formed, their parents make a dance.

Everyone forms a circle and holds a broom thirty centimeters off the ground.

Young lovers jump over.

And what's going on?

It's finish. They are married.

Married?

When a priest on a journey passes...

he gives them the blessing of the church.

Maybe you jumped over the broom yourself?

Not yet. The broom is easy to find.

But finding the right girl is something else.

- Yes I know. - Please miss.

Keep the bow in place.

And your face around.

I guess the brooms are very busy.

Enough.

As miss can not leave the room...

it might be better for you to leave it.

Perhaps it would be better for us to leave her.

Anyway, my foot is numb.

- Your arm. Can I? - With pleasure.

- It's better. - But the light is impeccable.

You have been a much better subject today.

It's a very nice compliment.

I am very happy to have satisfied you.

- But, miss... - Maybe tomorrow.

Do not you still dance?

I asked him twice. She told me no two times.

Try someone else then.

That's not why I came.

When they announce the quadrille, can I have the honor?

Why? Did you bet that you would dance with me?

A man does not bet with his life. That's what you are for me.

- Will I have the honor? - The quadrille comes after the break.

You would not want to ask me an answer so soon?

- For the quadrille? - But it's still so early.

- But... - Let's talk about it later.

- Another cut, sir. - No thanks.

Good evening.

Excuse me. Two, please.

Thank you.

Ladies and gentlemen?

The Virginia quadrille.

- Good luck. - To you too.

You are all so nice, I do not know who to choose.

Your arm, please.

Your arm.

Forgive me, but I knew...

that they danced the quadrille even in the bayous.

I was not sure you knew how to dance waltz or polka.

I was not sure either.

But I will try anything with you.

It's better that way.

If you do not believe me, look at their faces.

You have danced the quadrille wonderfully...

I'm sure you could waltz.

Would you like to take a private lesson?

Did you hear me?

Sorry. I thought of wood.

In the woods? I scandalize everyone by coming here with you...

- and you think of wood. - I always say what's wrong.

But if it was not for the wood...

I would never have come here. I would never have met you.

"You do not regret it, are you? Not at all."

Thanks to you, I will become a very good businessman.

Thanks to me? This is your strangest compliment so far.

I could have sold the wood when I arrived.

But I met you, and I wanted an excuse to stay.

Now I have been offered double the price.

I guess that's what happens when you want to keep something.

I hoped never to sell it. But it must be tomorrow.

So you have to come back?

- You do not want? - No.

So do not go away.

Jim, do not leave.

It must.

Why?

Judalon, have you ever been to the land of bayou?

No. But I would like you to tell me about it.

That's wonderful. There are millions of hectares...

where no one except the Indians...

and some hunters like me, never set foot.

You see, an Indian never works the land. Never change it.

Once dead and gone, it's as if he had never been there.

To hear you, it seems very lonely.

It's not.

Or at least I had never thought of it before.

I was like the Indians before coming here...

with all the cotton and the rice fields.

Now, I want to go back to work the land.

Put my mark on it.

Leave New Orleans for good?

I'm not in my place here, yet I make a living here.

Do you still have to think about making a living?

Can not that wait...

tomorrow or next week or even next year?

I thought I could wait all my life.

Now, I know I can not.

Judalon, come with me.

Live in a hut in a wilderness?

It will not always be wild.

Do not you understand? You say you do not have your place here.

Do you really think I have my place there?

Without music or dance?

Think how I would be useless.

Do not talk about it now. It's time to go back.

- Tell me. - Tell you what?

What do you think I am, a bayou woman...

that one catches and that one removes at the first kiss?

If you want a squaw, go back and skip the broom...

with one of your young girls in the country, Mr. Bowie.

You like compliments.

A proposal in marriage is the best compliment...

that a woman can get.

I thought you loved me.

I still think so.

What did he do?

I'd rather not talk about it.

Well, Henry, you do not invite me to dance?

Jim?

Please, do not talk about him anymore.

It's my fault. I should never have invited him.

He insulted you, did not he?

I did not say that.

You do not have to say it, Judalon.

Will you excuse me, please?

- Champagne, Miss Judalon? - Please.

It's a wonderful evening. Thank you.

You had to know what kind of man he was.

You need to be more precise. What man is this this time?

You know who I mean.

But I do not want you to do anything.

- Where did Henri Contrecourt go? - Whatever?

Dance with Me. I do not want to stay here.

Judalon, what did you do? Tell me what you did.

I am not responsable. It is not me.

Narcissus, you have to do something.

Is it rain that brought you home so early?

Jim? I said, it's the rain that brought you back so soon?

She is beautiful, is not it?

You should have seen her tonight.

I can imagine.

They say that true artists...

must be able to see behind the surface of what they are painting.

I painted it, Jim, and I saw behind the surface.

Me too.

She is not for you.

Why? Because she slapped me tonight?

You are closer than I thought.

A kiss first, maybe?

- She is... - What is she?

I do not say it's bad.

She is almost perfect.

But she would not be good for you.

Return to the bayou.

Run away?

I would see her in the bayous. I would see her everywhere.

And if you were right? If she was not good for me?

Will it stop me from loving him?

You can try.

I do not want to try.

I want her enough to bet that the day will come when she will love me.

Good or bad, it will be worth it.

Now, answer me. Tell me what to do.

Maybe I do not have the right.

Maybe no man has the right.

I was taught never to run away from anything.

And I will not run away from that.

Where are you going?

Look for what goes with these clothes.

Red.

Sir, the bank is dry. There will be a slight delay.

Is Mr. Bowie here? Mr. Contrecourt?

No, just Mr. Bowie. It's enough.

This man came here with less than a hundred dollars.

He is already leading this place to bankruptcy.

I am the owner here.

I hope that sir will not object...

that I take the place of the croupier?

- Like you want. - Thank you.

Is there a limit?

Given the circumstances, there is no limit for you.

I put everything.

Like you want.

- Jim, I have to talk to you. - Later.

Red.

Sir, I ask you for indulgence. Another slight delay.

Jim.

You had a lot of luck, sir.

- Thank you very much. - I do not know what happened.

Henri Contrecourt will challenge you.

- Why? - What difference does it make?

Judalon?

Whatever the reason, I feel responsible.

You have to leave. If I can find you, Contrecourt too.

You have seen that money there, ready to increase.

I do not do things halfway.

Countercourt can kill you.

Good. I'll be the first Bowie to die rich.

- How much do I have here? - Almost 50,000, sir.

- Still no limit? - Your luck is incredible.

But the honor of the house is at stake. No limits.

"You are doing well, Mr. Bowie. I have to talk to you."

But a boor with money is always a boor.

- Red. - Did not Mr. Bowie hear me?

Sir, we do not want trouble here, please.

Red.

Black. The house wins, sir.

Cognac, sir?

Thank you for your courtesy.

- You spoke to me? - Henri, listen to me.

- Stay out of my quarrel. - Henri.

Stay out of my quarrel.

I have just appropriated it.

Ready.

Ready.

You were going to challenge me.

Consider it done.

It is the privilege of Monsieur to choose his death.

So, I choose the knives.

I refuse to dishonor the code by using such a weapon.

So, use your sword.

Sir is too good.

I think it's my privilege to choose the place.

Do you have an empty, dark room?

Dark? Men can not duel in the dark.

Maybe not.

But they can fight.

Very well then.

This way please.

- Choose your corner. - Farthest.

We meet at the center?

We will meet again when we meet.

Ready?

Ready.

I suppose you believe me guilty.

No. No.

- Jim. - Hello, Sam.

- You look different. - I feel different.

- My God! - It's alive?

Mom, mortals have never seen this before.

- Come on, sit down. - Go slowly. You will break it.

- Did you have dinner, Jim? - No mother.

What happened?

First, I... I killed a man.

- Should he kill him? - More than any man.

- Nobody's looking for you? - No, it was right.

I guess you want to know for the wood.

- How much did it yield? - I did not sell it.

- How? - It's part of the deal.

I sold the whole thing in full.

Finally, if you want to sign this deed of sale.

I will not sign anything. We should never have let you go.

Our home means so little to you?

I did not sell the house, just the factory.

Do not worry. We keep everything.

Stay calm. Jim deserves to be listened to.

$ 7,000. It seems to me a good price.

We work in the wood. What is the use of money without the factory?

The wood would not pay for a boat ride. Cotton, yes.

Upstream and downstream of the river, they clear.

Put this money in the lower lands, we will all be rich.

We do not know anything about cotton growing.

We know the earth. We hunted and fished on both sides of the river.

They did not even start clearing this.

We buy, we clear, we plant and we move to the next plot.

This country is ready for the biggest leap forward in its history.

- Listen. - Hold on.

I'm not saying Jim acted well or acted wisely.

Or what he asks you to do is the best.

But whatever you do, do it together.

Both of you go out to calm down.

Jim, sit down.

My clothes were not good enough for you?

That's why you want to be rich?

Come on, eat.

NATCHEZ HERALD HIGH PRICES FOR LAND VIRGINS

WE WILL PAY IN LIQUID FOR YOUR HECTARES NOT WORKED

BOWIE BROTHERS, BAYOU SARA.

ON EMPLOYMENT MEN. GOOD SALARY FOR MULETIERS AND MANORS OF HACHES

REGULAR EMPLOYMENT BOWIE BROTHERS, BAYOU SARA

BAYOU SARA BECOMES A REGULAR STOP ON BOATS

BOWIE BROTHERS SHOULD SHIP 5000 COTTON BALLS THIS YEAR

Jim Bowie. Bowie, Bowie, Bowie. You call it a newspaper?

He's been fighting back with us for over a year.

I imagine you have seen Bayou Sara's passage, Mr. Moreno.

- Yes that's it. - I'm sorry but...

- Marschalk? - Yes, Judge Crain?

How can you live here in Natchez and print these things?

- Things? - Like this.

"Will Bayou Sara compete with Natchez?"

"Land clearing and speculation in full development."

What will they raise up there? Big frogs?

You can laugh as much as you want, gentlemen.

They made a good crop of cotton last season.

They want the moon this year. And he could have it.

Not without real money to invest. They will never find it here.

And here in Natchez?

They will not have money from Natchez to build Bayou Sara...

not as long as I'm the director of the bank.

It is the center of cotton. This will remain so.

Perhaps. You saw the Bowie brothers in the corner recently, did not you?

They are very big with an insolent air.

I knew Jim Bowie in New Orleans.

He had not worn shoes for more than a week.

You do not need shoes when you can go by car.

BANK OF NATCHEZ

At least one of our important citizens seems to think...

that this country is big enough to have two cotton centers.

Excuse me, gentlemen.

General Cuny, there is their money.

No well is so full that it can not be put to dry.

In a month or so, they will realize it.

General, you must be reasonable.

Reasonable? How dare you tell us that we are poor?

Wells, my brother and I have enough money to buy you.

If your money was not entirely in the land.

You have mortgaged all your Natchez holdings...

to buy and clear these marshes of mud at Bayou Sara.

- Mud swamps? - In three months...

they will produce the most beautiful cotton.

Let me remind you that...

the judge and I are only directors of the bank.

She does not belong to us. To do justice to the depositors...

we must demand the payment of the interest due.

We are ready to pay the interest, with the land.

This is what has been done.

Unfortunately, the bank is now asking for cash.

$ 25,000 before the 1st of the month.

It comes from you, Crain.

For 15 years, you waited for your time.

You see his arm?

I put my mark on it, oh yes, at a speed of 30 steps.

He was in the lead, but he could not take his own medicine.

Let's see how you take them now. Good evening.

Good evening sirs.

- Well, Mr. Bowie. - Did you have the money?

I think Mr. Moreno can answer that question.

I imagine you went to the bank alone.

I arranged a loan of cash but a messenger came from here.

Pity. It seems that there is not much money everywhere.

- When you pull the cord. - Good evening sir.

Just 25,000! Gentlemen, do you understand...

that if we do not find that money...

Gentlemen, the situation is serious. Extremely serious.

I am a man of property in this community.

I have been a good man all my life.

Now, I can even lose this house.

You led me to this disaster.

You, kind of arrived!

Speculation on the land. Easy money.

Make us all rich, you said.

Where was my head? I was already rich.

If you were 30 years younger and you weighed 50 pounds less...

- I would be very upset. - Oh, kind of...

General, you know that you are unfair.

Moreno and Crain are the traitors...

in this cotton story, not Bowie.

But they will steal our land for mortgages...

and will make a fortune with what we started.

Maybe not. Do you want to go to town?

- Why? - Money.

But I'd like to take a good look first.

Another of your crazy plans?

Come on, get up.

Do you have money, ladies? So, go out.

- What can I do for you? - Is Studentvant here?

Yes. He is here. Jack?

We came here to see Jack Studentvant?

I would rather starve than accept his dirty money.

Do not worry. He will not give you any.

Ah, Mr. Bowie.

Drink for Mr. Bowie's friends. The best available.

- It happens. - Gentlemen.

- Is Steel Duke here? - He is waiting.

- Who the hell is Steel Duke? - A racehorse.

Just arrived from Nashville. Steel Duke is still very well known there.

What does it have to do with us?

I buy it for 700 dollars.

We are at the foot of the wall and you buy racehorses.

- That's it. - You must be crazy.

What if he beat Kerry Isle, Moreno's horse?

In the Duncan Cup?

How else can you find $ 25,000 in speed?

Show us the way, Jack.

It's my heart. I'm not young anymore.

There is nothing wrong with his pedigree.

I would prefer to see a bill of sale on which there is nothing to complain about.

Ah yes?

I won it at poker. What would a racehorse be for me?

The rules of the Duncan Cup...

specify that horses must belong to gentlemen.

Local influencers say I can not register.

I lose, you win. Nose Cut?

Take it out.

Hurry up, hurry up.

He is handsome, is not he?

Bet on this creature against Kerry Isle...

Natchez's fastest horse? It's crazy!

Kerry Isle is Natchez's fastest horse.

But Steel Dukey is the fastest horse in the world.

He has good points. Yes sir. Very good points.

Yes, but where are we going to find the money to bet?

Nobody knows for this horse.

They are all sure of Kerry Isle.

Guys like Moreno and Judge Crain...

should be afraid of a rating of 5-1.

5,000 is all we will need.

We have this sum in liquid. And if we win, Moreno and Crain...

we would save the skin with their money.

You have understood the heart of the matter.

That's right, sir. What's his name?

Steel Duke.

Steel Duke? To your good health, sir.

To our enemies, who I hope will hate the sound of your name.

- Please? - He knows me as a sister.

I mean, like a brother. We will have fun together.

How do you like it?

I look good. The women will look at me, not Steel Duke.

Do not look at women and watch Kerry Isle.

You will lose your beautiful shirt.

I wonder if he has already arrived...

that businessmen risk everything on a race.

If it works, you'll be rich, Jim. Very rich.

Rich enough to return to New Orleans.

- What makes you think that? - I know what pushes you.

Horses online.

You have smuggled this horse.

I bought it here in Natchez.

And forgot to say he was from Nashville before making the bets.

It seems he has won a dozen races. It's for gentlemen.

- You are not part of it. - I am here.

Only because Cuny has sponsored you.

If this scammer beats Kerry Isle, pay attention to yourself.

I have been paying attention to myself for years.

Horses and owners, at the booth.

Owners and grooms, leave the track.

Leave the track, please.

Horses, forward.

Come on, train this horse.

Honey, pay attention to your tension.

My tension? I do not have.

- He's going fast. - Not fast enough.

Kerry Isle is the best in the home stretch.

The winner, Steel Duke!

Go. We have not lost yet.

Mr. Bowie, come cut your price, sir.

- Sir, I have to talk to you. - Later.

Jim, what head does Judge Crain have?

Like the time my ball touched it, I bet.

Hello, Bowie. It has been a long time.

If only I had known that your horse was going so fast.

Apparently, my wife knew it.

She won.

Your woman?

Unfortunately, a very small bet.

Congratulations, Jim. Your horse has had a wonderful race.

I should have congratulated you, but I did not know.

Mr. Bowie, you're expected at the judge's booth.

Jim, stay here tonight. This lady is visiting us.

We will celebrate that.

Very well thank you.

Have you forgotten? I bet on Steel Duke.

Do not you think I deserve to see you get your prize back?

Yes of course.

But, Philip, you bet on Kerry Isle.

It does not bother you?

Jim, I have to talk to you alone.

I have heard so many wonderful things about you.

You have come a long way from New Orleans.

That's true for both of us, Ms. Cabanal.

Please, you must understand.

After Narcisse's death, everything was so confused.

That's not all. Philippe was my mother's choice.

We do things like that in New Orleans.

- So you did not love me? - No.

Judalon, tell me the truth.

You have never done anything...

just because someone else wanted it.

Why did you marry him?

Okay. Maybe I thought I wanted a man like Philippe.

- Someone who... - Whose name was with yours?

- Social position? - Maybe that was it.

But will not it be enough if I tell you it was a mistake?

Judalon.

Jim? They are always waiting for you at the judge's stand.

Excuse me.

Excuse me for interrupting you, Mrs. Cabanal.

You are Mrs. Cabanal, are you?

Yes.

A horse must be registered by its owner.

I want Bowie to prove that he is the owner.

- It's a legal protest. - Legal, maybe.

But we are all supposed to be gentlemen here.

All except Jim Bowie.

Mr. Bowie.

These gentlemen are questioning...

the property of the horse that you have registered.

You understand my position.

Here is a bill of sale. He will convince every honorable man.

Is this an insinuation, sir?

It depends on whether it is difficult to convince you.

This states that Studentvant won this horse at a card game...

with Joseph Levington in Nashville.

I do not know Mr. Levington. Can you check his signature?

I can not check it. But why question it?

Very big bets are at stake.

I give you time to find Levington and check his signature.

If everything is in order, the bets will be settled.

But if it's a fake, Steel Duke will be disqualified...

and Kerry Isle declared winner.

- I'm leaving for Nashville. - I'll wait for your return.

JAMES BACK, FORGE, COUTELLERIE

- Mr. Black? - Yes sir.

- My name is Bowie. - How are you sir?

It seems that you make a very good edge...

and you have a different method of quenching.

With your permission, sir, it's a professional secret.

I'm on my way to Nashville.

I would like to have a knife made during my absence.

It's something that I cut.

I have never seen a blade of this form.

The heel on the back is very thick. A few millimeters.

It seals his strength. It is important not that it breaks.

I saw swords breaking, knives breaking.

I want something that will never break.

It's a big challenge, sir. And I like challenges.

I will show you something.

Once I saw a fireball cross the sky...

as bright as the sun.

There was an incredible roar like a hundred guns.

It was the death of a shooting star.

Later, I found this fragment of the meteor.

It's steel. Pure steel from another world.

Harder and stronger than anything on this earth.

I tried to find the equivalent. I never did it.

Yet I think I was closer than anyone.

I'll be back from Nashville in four days. Will he be ready?

Sir, you ask me for a unique knife.

A knife that the world has never seen before.

It would take me at least two weeks.

I have the feeling that I am going to need this knife.

Really need.

So it'll be ready in four days.

Thank you.

Sam, turn off the oven. Cleans it.

Do not leave an ash that will give you the tear in the eye.

- Prepare a new crucible. - Get active.

Jackson, brings together our best wrought iron. Hurry up.

- Sam, we're going to need steel. - Yes sir.

More coal. It must be warmer.

Hotter.

Mr. Black, what are you going to do?

More heat!

This steel offers a cutting edge that you have never seen.

I soaked it seven times.

He is superb.

I never thought that such a knife could exist.

There will never be another one.

I melted it with a fragment of a star in it.

For better or worse, this knife has a little paradise in it.

Or a little hell.

It's better not to sing so loud before you see their money.

We will see him. Jim reported the proof now...

they can no longer lift their feet.

Once you get it, this property at Rapides Parish is not expensive.

- We should buy it. - Not me.

It does not look like you. What is going on?

Do you think you are rich enough?

I feel like a man on his 31's with nowhere to go.

Can I talk to you alone?

- Of course. - Please excuse us.

As you and Juan Moreno are not on very good terms...

he asked me to give you the payment of his bet.

- He's a very worried man. - Perhaps.

There is an act signed for 12 hectares of cotton growing land...

and $ 5,000 in cash.

I would say he is fast.

I would love to be so fast.

Frankly, I am rather short.

Bad luck at the races. Bad luck with the cards.

I owe Jack Studentvant a lot.

Studenvant? You played with him?

He sold you a good horse, right? I thought he was honest.

What I wanted to say...

could you give me the loan of those 5,000 dollars?

It was your horse that dragged me into this situation.

You almost owe it to me.

And if I do not believe you have the duty?

In this case, you may think it is Judalon's duty.

It would be a terrible humiliation for her...

if I did not pay my debts.

- Does she know? - She does not know anything.

By the way, I have a note from him.

She gave it to one of the servants, but he came to see me.

I took the liberty to read it.

That said she would like to see you in our summer house...

at nine o'clock tonight.

Jim, I was afraid you were not getting my word.

I got it. From Philippe.

I should have known. I'm used to being watched.

His actions do not surprise me anymore.

Jim, I would not have taken the chance to meet you, but...

Finally, I'm going to divorce.

Not because he plays all his money and all mine...

but because I can not live with a man I do not like.

I know that now.

But you can not ask for a divorce. It's not allowed here.

I know it requires a law from a legislator.

I have high-ranking friends in politics.

This can be done and I will do it.

But do not think I do not know what that means.

They will laugh behind my back and stain my name.

I do not want to face this alone.

Jim, I know there is animosity between you and Juan Moreno.

Will you promise me not to fight with him?

I want you safe. I want you near me.

I promise you. If there is a challenge, it will not come from me.

I was hoping you would say that.

Judalon...

when the time comes, will you marry me?

I can not answer that question.

But when the time comes, perhaps you will rest the question?

- I'd better go home. - Yes.

- That's it, General. - Thank you.

- Doctor. - Thank you, my boy. Hold.

Well, Dr. Maddox.

The last.

We wondered if everyone would pay except you.

Here is your money, but you will have little time...

- to enjoy. - You do not leave me any choice.

Will you be one of my seconds, General?

With pleasure.

I wish you had offered me the privilege of killing yourself.

Jim, will you represent me too?

The bar, tomorrow morning.

The earliest would be best.

Juan Moreno and Judge Crain will represent me.

Good evening sirs.

I knew they could not pay like gentlemen.

They want blood for their money.

We will have to do more than be ready tomorrow.

They will make a battle.

I should have said no there.

I promised to stay away from Moreno.

Why promise him anything? She is married.

Not for a long time. There is a loophole.

So, will she marry you?

She did not answer you frankly, I bet. She will never do it.

It's not that she does not love you, she likes what she was born in.

I can give it to him now.

Money does not make you what she calls a gentleman.

You could not marry her anymore...

that Jack could enter a horse in the Duncan Cup.

Have you finished?

I do not know what Juan Moreno means to her...

but he has seen it a lot lately.

No matter what else he is, or how old he is...

he is always what she calls a gentleman.

You're done?

I'm your brother and I have to tell you.

Let's get out of Natchez.

She is like a vine around a tree.

- It will choke you to death. - Shut up!

- Jim! - I said, shut up!

Fortunately, the Bowie's head is hard.

- I could have killed you. - Yes, you could have.

We forget. I forgot.

One two Three.

Gentlemen, you both have proven your courage.

We are lucky that nobody was hurt.

You want to shoot again?

- Yes. - Yes.

Prepare to shoot.

- You shoot too fast. - I'll have it this time.

Are you ready, gentlemen?

- Ready. - Ready.

A...

two...

three.

Gentlemen, not even the strictest interpretation of the code...

requires you to fire a third time.

I hope you will consider your honor satisfied.

Shake your hand.

Maddox, if you're a man, you'll shoot again.

Maddox! Shoot again.

- Stay out of this, Crain. - We came to settle an account.

I ask you, will you do it?

I held my head twice. It's enough.

I'll fix that.

Gentlemen, it's a field of honor!

Here is what says "The Herald".

"It's Bowie, falling hurt..."

a steel blade in the chest...

animated only by its deadly ferocity...

"who made Crain's group retreat."

"An avenging demon, a knife he handled like a modern Excalibur...

irresistible against any human defense."

You become famous.

This is not the type of celebrity I want.

Go get him some lemonade.

This fire and the sulfur that you read will not make him lower the fever.

- It will be fine. - Go get some tape.

Keep me company I risk getting lost here.

It happened for you. I guess you know who sent it.

I'll be in the lobby if you need me.

A man like you puts his heart on something and stays attached to it...

whether it be a fortune, a quarrel or a woman.

Even a married woman.

But you can recover from that...

if you go out and find someone else to take his place.

The book says it's not good for a man to live alone.

Look for someone to fill your life.

You can not fill it with a sheet of paper.

Jim, it's wonderful to see you back.

I started to recover as soon as your word arrived.

All these weeks, I was so worried.

I was worried too.

I was afraid that Moreno means something to you...

and that you would hate me for what happened.

You want some? I know you have to do it.

But, Moreno meant something to me, Jim.

And it meant something to you, too.

He was the only one I knew who could free me from Philippe.

The only man with enough influence in the legislature.

He was trying to enact a law for divorce?

Why did not you tell me?

I wanted to, but I was afraid you did not understand.

What I understand is that Moreno never gave anything.

What was it? You were going to marry her.

No. Maybe he was hoping...

but he knew how I felt about you.

I tried to hide it, but I could not do it. Not good enough.

In your heart, you must know...

why he wanted to get rid of you.

You mean he could not trust you anymore?

He had no reason to trust me. You have some.

It's easy to say that while you're Mrs. Cabanal.

I told you I was going to Texas...

and that I will not return until the divorce is pronounced.

I always go there, but I will not come back.

Take me with you.

You are sincere?

I am sincere if you say that you want it too.

Want what?

You are the reason of all my acts since I met you.

You will always be the reason. I will always want you.

But do you know what it means if we go to Texas?

What does it mean wherever we go?

It's a new country, is not it?

They will not ask questions.

They will ask questions in any country.

But I promise you this.

They will not ask them loudly.

I am sure of it.

- If only... - If only what?

Philippe. He is so weak, so stupid.

He can be cruel sometimes.

But I can not forget what it will do to him.

If only he was not already in such a bad situation.

- Does he always play? - Worse than that.

He has so much debt to Studenvant that he forces it...

to cheat towards other players. He can not even leave.

- Studenvant owns. - I'll take care of Studenvant.

We will leave this place in order.

Be ready tonight.

Well, Bowie, what brings you here?

I was told that you were very good at knife.

- I have never met better. - You have one in front of you.

I was told that you never provoke anyone.

I cause here even.

Or do you prefer that I take a look at these cards you distribute?

You feel strong enough for a circle of 3 meters...

with the wrists attached?

Clear the table. Draw a circle with chalk.

James!

If things go wrong, you catch Bowie, understand?

Ready, gentlemen?

Ready.

Ready.

Go for it.

Come on, finish it.

It's finish. I do not think so...

that you will distribute a lot of cards with this hand.

Do not approach me!

It will not bother you anymore.

Return to New Orleans and stay there.

Find where he is going. I want him dead.

What happened? Where is she?

I waited an hour near the house.

Then, when the butler came to see me, she was not there.

She took the night boat to New Orleans with Mr. Cabanal.

- The butler lied. - No, he did not lie.

He told the truth. You see? He gave me that word.

It's for you on his behalf.

Jim, I do not have any courage.

Philippe and I are made for each other.

Neither he nor I have courage. Judalon.

- Come. - Where are we going?

We were going to Texas, right?

I remember there is a cabin further.

We can sleep there tonight, right?

- No. - But the horses. He is tired.

Do not you think he needs rest?

They are not so tired.

Stop.

- Is he dead? - Yes, señor.

- This one is still alive. - If we leave him there, he will die.

Take him to the car.

- Put it up there. - We can not. Inside.

- There is no place. - We'll make some. Hurry up.

- Enter too. - And you?

Do not worry. I will put myself near the driver.

- Bowie? - I do not know.

I did not find his body. But I found that.

Bowie would never have left that if he had been up.

I saw car tracks. Maybe they took it.

Perhaps.

Go and get it. Hurry up!

I will learn. I will learn.

Help me, I will learn.

So what does the world look like for you?

I was afraid for a moment that you would not see him again.

- My knife. Where is he? - Do not worry about that.

You could not even use a fork.

I took care of horses more than humans.

I wanted to try this thing on someone.

Hold. Try to swallow that.

That's okay?

I remember now for my knife.

But who brought me here?

You have not seen it?

What a pity. She was a real princess.

She brought you here with class, really.

She, shaking on the car, and you warm inside.

I looked at you and I thought...

"What an elegant way to die".

She? Who was she?

It's right here.

Señorita of Varamendi...

daughter of his Excellency the vice-governor of Texas.

On the way back to San Antonio.

She has a beautiful head wear.

Sweet and kind as I have never seen.

She went to Spain too.

Real Spanish duplicates.

She left them for you to keep them or to be buried...

according to what would happen.

I have money. Why did she have to...

A good Samaritan like she does not look in the pockets.

She really took care of you, body and soul.

She left that for you, with a little prayer.

For me, that's what saved you.

I could not do much.

How long will I stay in bed, doctor?

It's a little hard to say.

I do not think you'll leave this bed for three or four weeks.

Unless the Lord takes you away.

If you need anything, call me.

Try to sleep if you can.

She was good, that one. "Unless the Lord takes you".

Señorita of Varamendi. Señor James Bowie.

- I do not speak Spanish. - I speak english.

I came to thank you for saving my life.

I can not thank you enough.

But I brought you the money you left me.

Señor. Is it really you?

I know now. It must be your wounded Americano.

The one who was so seductive, you said.

The wounded gladiator with the face of a Roman nobleman.

Sir, I am Ursula from Varamendi. It's my sister Theresa...

who has fine hearing and a good memory.

Have not you practiced enough for today?

- Oh. Please excuse me. - Yes.

Have you come all the way from San Antonio to bring me this?

In part.

But above all, to see the good Samaritan who saved my life.

Money does not mean anything...

but to see you here living the report is worth a lot.

If you want, I'll give it to the church.

Except this.

I would love to keep it.

I gave it to you that night.

It's always up to you.

You must be very tired after such a long trip.

Pedro will show you your room.

But I can not stay here.

But, señor, it's the governor's house.

That you would prefer another one would be very rude.

In addition, you said that you came from afar to see me.

And it is here that I live.

He is very agitated, because it must be ready in two weeks...

in time for the Christmas posada. The festival.

We give a wonderful evening at that time.

It is very unfortunate that you can not be there.

The piñata is going too fast for me. Who else wants to try?

We will give you another chance, Señor. But without tricks.

No, I had my chance.

You want to touch the piñata for me, little one?

Me?

Please have a seat.

You may be wondering why I removed you from the posada.

Ursula too.

I have the feeling that you are wondering...

why I have abused your hospitality so long.

It's a pleasure.

But I'm not talking to you as host, but as governor.

You are a famous man.

Even here in Texas, we've heard about your duels.

Your beautiful fights while everything was against you.

You have a great reputation, but related to violence.

So I have to ask you what are your intentions.

Señor, I came to Texas...

only because, for personal reasons,

I want to be out of the United States for a while.

I had no intention of settling here for good...

but now so.

I must admit that I am not surprised.

But do you realize that here, make the court...

is a very long process?

Yes. I have no reason to think that I would win...

but I wish I could try.

Well, you force me now to speak no as a host...

neither governor...

but as a father.

Understand me, I like you and I admire you.

But I can not totally forget your violent past.

Great gods, you have been married to a knife.

Men called him your iron mistress.

Señor, I do not have the knife anymore.

Only an empty sheath remains.

Salud.

Salud.

I will leave tomorrow morning.

But only to settle my things.

I talked to your father.

He gave me permission to...

Ursula...

Will you marry me?

I'll marry you, if you want me.

Of course I want you.

You are my only reason for being here.

The only reason I want to stay.

Ah yes? I'm wondering.

I know how I feel.

What I felt the first time I saw you.

But are you sure you're here because of me...

or are you here because of an event there?

What makes you say that?

That night, when we brought you to the inn...

I heard you pronounce a name.

I had never heard that name before.

I did not even know if it was a man's or a woman's name.

I know now that it's a man's name.

Tonight your father had his own troubles.

If I had left my old life behind me or not.

It's more than the knife that's gone, Ursula. Everything has disappeared.

That is true?

You always wear the sheath.

Jack, I have news for you.

- What about? - Bowie. He was in town.

He sold a parcel of land. He stayed an hour and left.

- Where did he go? - He missed the diligence...

so he took the boat. You'll catch him at Fells Landing.

Anything else, sir?

No.

Thank you sir.

- Boy? - Yes, Mr Bowie?

- Please serve my dinner here. - I'll bring you the note.

Jim.

So, Texas did not ask you after all.

I'm afraid so.

How's Philippe?

Is he on board?

I guess so, although I have not seen it much these days.

You saved him from Studenvant, but he always finds someone else.

Can not we talk about something more cheerful?

Jim Bowie, for example?

Tell me what you did.

Nothing that would interest you.

Let me go. Let me go!

Let me go!

- Philippe. - You think I'm drunk, right?

That is true. But not enough drunk.

But I will be. I will be!

Philippe.

They took everything. Every dollar.

What do you mean? They could not have.

Every penny!

I do not go back to New Orleans. You understand?

I do not go back there. I can not go back!

Hello, Philippe.

Oh, it's you.

Since when are you on board?

You... you always find someone, right?

What did he do?

Friends sent him to St. Louis to sell their cotton.

We left with almost $ 50,000 in cash.

And it was not our money. Philippe Cabanal.

As I fought to keep the honor of the name.

Now, it's a shame to wear it.

I dishonored him?

Who wanted me to play with someone else's money?

Ask him.

Judalon de Bornay. Pride and debts.

That's what makes Bornay's.

That's why she married me. To repay his debts.

To repay his debts.

Now, what's up?

Not even my pride!

I hope you do not believe it.

You can not believe it.

Keep it here.

Fells Landing.

I bet 500.

I raise from 1000.

And 5000.

What is happening? You're not a thunard, are you?

Ad.

- Where is Mr. Bowie's room? - Over there, sir.

He plays poker in the men's saloon.

- Do I have to leave him a message? - No, I'll see him later.

I raise with the 1000 dollars that I have left.

And five.

I show you. Boy? Give me the cards.

Put them there. Do not return them.

We started with a blank game.

All three of you have made a mark on each card.

Left corner, as.

Right corner, king.

Center, queen.

Stand up.

Look under his vest.

Gentlemen, it's special ink.

I have a present for you.

You concede the pot, right? Fill it.

Send down the captain right away.

Thank you.

I took my own money with which I played.

This should match what you lost.

Where are you going?

Thank him. Would not you think so?

It can wait until tomorrow morning.

Nothing can wait until tomorrow morning.

- What do you want to say? - I'm leaving you.

It's over.

This was not the case before his arrival.

You will not see him. Not now. Never.

Mr. Bowie? You really live up to your reputation.

We knew they were cheats...

but you proved it.

The captain locked them up.

I hope he will not release them.

Have you seen Mr. Studenvant? He was looking for you.

Studenvant? Here on board?

Yes, sir, he went up to Bells Landing. He is in this cabin.

- I'll go see him tomorrow morning. - Yes. Good evening sir.

He is dead.

I know.

We will be in Kingston soon. We can go down there.

- Us? - Sounds strange, does not it? "We".

That's how it should have been, always.

Philippe has just died, and you can leave.

Why not? I do not worry about appearances anymore.

But he loved you. He loved you enough to kill for you.

I wonder what Philippe and I had in common.

I could be lying in his place right now.

But you are not. You are here.

Near me. Think about it, Jim, I'm free.

Only two of us now.

We can go anywhere, do anything I want to do.

We can start living for ourselves now.

Judalon, I thought I was coming back here to sell everything.

But that was not the reason. It was you.

As it has always been.

If you had not been there, I would have found you.

I would have found you somewhere, one way or another.

The money I earned was for you, not for me.

I know.

Philippe knew it too. He died of it. Narcisse, Contrecourt, Moreno.

Even Studenvant and his men, one way or another...

died because I was in love with you.

Once, I almost killed my brother.

But you knew that I had nothing to do with all that.

You have always had something to do with it.

You mean you do not want me?

No woman is worth the death of eight men.