Original subtitles

English subtitles by David Blake (2013)

"Throughout the 17th Century, France and Spain

"disagreed about most matters of importance -

"and the wars they waged seemed to solve nothing.

"Those who feature in our story

"were fighting for possession of a fortress in the Pyrenees,

"that the French, because of its strategic importance,

"were determined to win from the Spanish.

"They, in turn, were highly motivated to retain the fort.

"But this war - that so fully occupied the opposing forces

"- was only a small war.

"So small, that it is not even mentioned,

"in any of the history books.

"Nor will you find the name of Donna Isabella,

"a noble Spanish girl that the French cavalry

"were escorting along the road to the Castle of Saint Denis,

"on a sultry afternoon one month in the Summer

"of that Year of Our Lord 16..."

Your Grace, please climb down.

Where are we, Captain?

At the Castle of Saint Denis.

Isn't it a little early to stop? I don't feel overly tired.

Well, have you lost your tongue?

- I fear your journey ends here. - On whose orders?

His Majesty, the King of France

has ordered that you escort me to the Spanish border.

Yes, Your Grace. That is what you were led to believe.

What do you say! Please explain...

The prisoner?

Se�or, I am a guest here in France

even if my country is at war with yours.

And I am desolated about this - for the honour of France.

Captain! You are an official of the King!

Yes, Monsieur. And I am sorry that the King

has seen fit to allow this outrage.

How dare you!

Your Grace.

- Escort the ladies to their rooms. - As you command.

If you will follow me.

I give you my word as your King that I will pay.

But do not try this sort of thing again with a King of Spain!

Isabella is my cousin and the war should not cause us to forget the

proper etiquette between rulers.

Perhaps the blame was ours

We shouldn't have tried to recall her from Holland

- since it meant having to pass through enemy territory.

I admit it was my impatience in love

that urged this trip,

but, as His Majesty says, the families of royal blood...

- are above all conflicts - Eh-eh!

But Isabella is the daughter of the Duke of Asturias,

our staunch defender of the fortress at Vandremond.

- Do they hope I will cede the fortress? - No, not that.

They seek to weaken the morale of the Duke.

For him, it would be a hard blow

to know his daughter languishes in a dark prison.

It is a dirty trick. You know what I'm thinking?

Behind this, one can sense the hand of Cardinal Richelieu.

Majesty, it's evident he must have acted with the consent of his King.

Just so. Then he is a scoundrel himself!

Perhaps I should do the same to them!

What do you think?

- We are already doing it, Sire. - Ah, already it is true! God spare us!

But what now can I do? Keep right on, would you say?

Advise me. Are you, or are you not, my counsellors?

What's that?

- It's a message, Sire. < - Let me see.

- Zorro. - What!

What villain has dared break into your palace?

Captain, what are you waiting for? Arrest him!

Of course, Majesty! Hurry along!

Guards, to me!

Quickly!

Captain! Give a warning when you decide to depart in such a manner!

What? Go to the Devil.

"Do not despair for the delightful Isabella,

she will be fr..."

"...will be freed by your faithful servant, Zorro"

My word, Sire. Are you in written communication with that rebel?

But no! What are you suggesting? It was thrown with this stone through that window.

Ah, after smashing so many heads, now he smashes Your Majesty's glass.

Count, I am not willing to tolerate

- the joking of your son. - Forgive him, Sire'

- He has come to present himself before leaving. - Ah, you are going?

The first good news of the day.

- I hope you are going far, - Yes, very much so, to the New World.

Glad to know it pleases Your Majesty.

Your plantations in America

interest you more than the outcome of the war?

On the contrary, Count of Seville.

With the valiant soldiers we have at Court,

our victory cannot be in doubt.

Majesty, my guards are searching every corner.

- Too late. - What do you mean?

If he has promised to free Donna Isabella,

Zorro will already be on his way.

You take his boasting seriously?

Well, if Zorro is capable of achieving so much,

I will quash the death sentence hanging over his head.

But his crimes are grave, Sire.

Surely he hasn't committed anything

to warrant punishment under the justice of Your Majesty!

Zorro is not concerned with justice, but with subversion!

Excuse me, that is true. I express myself badly.

However, I don't believe it is the role of this Court

to influence His Majesty in this.

Why don't you think so?

I will tell you - I am a romantic

and I like to see things from a sentimental point of view.

I don't follow, explain to me.

Suppose our dear Count of Seville

has found, in Zorro, a rival in love.

- You are mad! - Why? Are you the only one with a heart?

Zorro in love with my cousin Isabella? Impossible!

Why, Sire? Love makes the world go round!

May not a leap of foolishness such as this be love.

And I wonder why you yourself are not now travelling to France.

Well, I... um...

was about to ask Your Majesty for permission

just before that ridiculous message arrived!

I pray you, Count - leave the boasting to Zorro.

Well said, Majesty. It's enough there is one such, no?

- Grant me permission and I swear... - This is what concerns me.

Isabella is a prisoner in a fortress

in the heart of enemy territory, closely guarded.

- How do you think one man, albeit valorous... - I will not be alone!

Ah no?

Some of my friends will willingly give their lives alongside me.

Such nobility! It's a shame I cannot be involved in that way.

What will prevent it?

My own good sense, Count.

I know I'm not cut out for heroic deeds.

And then, Majesty, my boat sails from Barcelona in a week.

Bon voyage, Count of Terruel.

Your Majesty.

And so, it is down to you, Count of Seville.

If you succeed, you may marry Isabella.

God protect you.

The border, Count, is beyond that row of poplars.

- Let's wait until dark, it will be safer. - No, let's cross now!

We need to get to the Golden Lion Inn as quickly as possible.

Hey you! Quickly!

Welcome, gentlemen.

Water the horses, and then come get a drink yourselves.

- Thanks! - Make haste, I'm thirsty!

Come in! Make yourselves at home.

Nice surroundings! We are expecting to meet a friend.

- Has a stranger arrived? - Only the Cardinal's guards.

Sit yourselves at that table. The Spaniard has not got here yet.

Instead we have the vultures!

If you prefer, there is a pleasant sitting room upstairs..

We might willingly take it because here seems far from clean.

Are you gentlemen trying to insult me? I wash everything every day!

Strange, to me it seems full of cockroaches!

Desist! Officers of the Cardinal do not respond to such provocations!

- Let's sit here! - He may come in through that door.

Wouldn't you like to see the room upstairs?

I've already said we are waiting for a friend

and, if he doesn't see us, he might leave.

- What are you waiting for? Bring us wine! - Immediately.

Tell me, friends. Can you not hear the birdsong of ravens?

You are wrong, that is the croaking of vulgar crows!

- We can't accept this! - Our orders are quite clear,

we can only react in matters of national importance.

Ambush!

On your feet, scoundrel!

This man is a devil! Let's get out of here!

A band of miserable cowards!

So, you mix brute force with your treason!

You think so? You are confusing my shoulders with my heart!

On your feet! Shortly you will sleep the eternal sleep!

You will regret your arrogance, Zorro!

Bravo, you have recognised me!

Pity you won't have the time to tell anyone!

You dull plodder! You are devoid of imagination!

It's enough to know I must kill you!

Now you are dreaming!

We shall see!

Die, you villain!

What you lack above all, is loyalty!

You talk of loyalty, you who cover your face with a mask!

My one conceit, Count of Seville!

In its place, I always leave my signature!

Ready!

Voila!

The "Z" I have drawn on your forehead

is the mark of infamy for traitors!

No-one has ever called me traitor!

It's a title you fully deserve, Count.

I will prove it.

Hey you! Don't stand there in fear - come over here!

- Are you speaking to me? - Yes!

Come here!

Make haste! And check the doublet of this good-for-nothing!

- Sancho, woe to you if you make a move! - Watch that YOU don't move!

The game is with you for the present

but it's the last move that counts!

Just so! And you, be quick, my man!

I am not your servant,

I can only obey if I'm threatened with death!

Well and good, start rummaging if you don't want to be killed!

Pardon me, master, but I am threatened with violence!

This will not save you from punishment when I return to Spain!

Unless you prefer to die in France, you'd better not disobey me!

- Curse you! - Hold! I am not finished!

Give me that paper!

This is the proof of your treachery!

The plan of the fortress being besieged by the French

to assist the enemy in their preparations!

Here is how you thought to free Isabella.

Brave men would have been killed as a result of this treachery!

But did that matter one jot to you?

You would have gained the hand of Isabella and her rich dowry,

the province of Asturias.

- Burn it! - Yes sir.

- You wish to destroy the proof... - Of your treachery, Count.

I don't need evidence against you!

I won't wait until your return to Spain to administer justice.

I will kill you here!

Take your sword, and redeem your shame with an honourable death!

Master. He escapes!

The trip rope was a nice idea, especially for the leading horses!

- But didn't you consider that I could have fallen too? - And how?

You're always at the rear.

True, but now the Count of Seville has got away because you didn't follow him.

I will find him, have no fear, brave Sancho!

- So, if I understand correctly, the comedy will continue. - Exactly, my friend.

Do you know where they expect to meet that rogue?

Two leagues from here, at the Golden Lion inn.

It's said they stock good wine.

Let's find our horses.

- What a let-down! - I can't see our host anymore!

We've been here for two hours

and still haven't started any trouble with the Cardinal's guards!

- Shhh! - What for? - Affairs of State!

- We are on a secret mission! - Go on!

My master Porthos keeps no secrets from me!

Host! Some beer! You want us to die of thirst?

- Some tavern this is! Do you have drink or not? - I'm coming, gentlemen!

If the Spaniard finds us drunk it'll be his fault!

I wonder what the hell is going on in France.

If the Cardinal has swallowed the bitter pill of resorting to us,

it MUST be of national importance.

Let's hope it is, or I will not forgive them for withdrawing me from the siege.

You will see it's what I say,

A diplomat is coming to plead for peace.

Then why all this mystery?

It is clear the Spaniards have surrendered!

In any case, what he wants does not concern us.

We only have to escort him to the Castle of Saint Denis.

- I would say that... - This is the best!

"Special Reserve". To your health!

Looks good!

I have found a treasure in the cellar!

A Burgundy from 1500!

More than a hundred years old!

- How old is our wine? - Don't know, a '70...

- But that is extraordinary! - Only a '70?

This liquid treasure, this gold in a bottle, is a delight to the palate...

that I offer in honour of the valorous captain

of the best troops France can boast!

Thank you, you are most courteous in making this gift!

Nice, eh? A worthy tribute.

- A fine joke! - Stay calm, good sirs, stay calm!

Please, gentlemen. A little respect for where you are!

Enough of these silly games! The bottle was meant for me!

Not at all, your guard offered it

to the best military troup in France. And that's us!

- Porthos - Aramis

- Athos - D'Artagnan!

We could talk at length on this topic, Messieurs,

but we are here to relax for the evening.

For the last time, return the bottle to us.

Would it be possible to come to a compromise,

seeing that we are on a mission for your top dog?

Do not speak thus of our Cardinal!

You must, by now, realise how he thinks of you

when he selected US for this task!

Let's drop these hurtful insults!

We have the bottle, so let us drink in honour of Cardinal Richelieu.

- Good enough? - Let's uncork it!

Uncork nothing - Give me back the bottle!

Outrageous! You want to stop us paying honour to the Cardinal?

That IS a stab in the back for His Eminence.

No-one can love the Cardinal more than we - and WE will drink his health!

Now, give me back the bottle, or I will have to resort to violence!

- This evening we have a spectacle to watch. - Regretfully.

Musketeers! All for one...

And one for all!

Try and take it!

Nice head butt!

If your escort are those dressed in black

our task is going to be difficult!

Because these four devils are destroying them!

I am sure the escort is precisely those four devils!

Mamma mia, they fight like a hundred men!

Whoever they are, we must find a way

to charm our way into their confidence.

Water!

Where is that bottle?

I put it on that cupboard, but it's no longer there!

Imbecile! It's a treasure!

- Is this your treasure? - Yes, but where did you sprout from?

- From the doorway. - We didn't see you come in.

- You were otherwise occupied. - A mere trifle!

- So much for the training session. - Don't be so modest, Se�ors.

Only four men could do what I've just seen you do!

- One of those is D'Artagnan. - At your service.

An honour to know you.

- But then the other three are - Athos - Porthos - Aramis.

Se�ors, this is a day I'll never forget!

You are most kind.

- Good sir, are you not... - The Count of Seville? I am he.

Well, Count. We have been waiting for you.

One delight after another.

To be escorted by the most valorous swordsmen in France

is the greatest of honours to me.

And now this. It's yours.

Monsieur, in spite of being Spanish you are one of us.

Although enemies, we will drink together as good friends

- from this vintage bottle. < - One moment.

To share only one bottle between so many

is like throwing a droplet of water into the desert.

That's right, what do you suggest then?

Without knowing us, and with no reason to associate with us,

this noble man has been truly gracious

and we must be as affable towards him.

- I agree. And you? - I couldn't agree more.

Then, if you permit, dear Count of Seville,

the Musketeers present you with a gift of the best wine in France.

Se�ors, I am sincerely touched by an honour I do not deserve.

I swear I am overwhelmed by the gift of

this precious bottle of yours.

I will drink it only on the most exceptional of occasions,

And, naturally, it will be to your health.

- Bravo! - Hurray!

He really is so very likeable, this young chap.

It's such a shame he is a Spaniard!

We fought like lions, my Lord,

But the number of our assailants was greater than our force,

- they numbered more than 50. Isn't that so, Ramon? - Perhaps, 100.

By the time we recovered from the surprise attack, three of mine were dead.

If they had time to organise an ambush,

the enemy must have known of your mission.

- Your Majesty's quickness of mind has anticipated my report. - Thank you.

The French were led by a Spaniard.

- A traitor? - Yes, Majesty.

- Zorro is the traitor! - Zorro?

Yes, without question, Majesty.

As we know, the scoundrel is arrogant about his crimes,

and he delights in leaving his mark upon his victims!

Zorro! Again, Zorro!

He will pay for this! I will condemn him to death!

- You have already condemned him, Majesty. - Already; ah, it's true.

I will have him captured and hanged!

- But he is in France! - Then go there and capture him!

- But there is a war! - Well, we will vie for peace!

Peace is perhaps a little too... Well, you must hurry up and win, then!

I want Zorro dead or alive!

The arrival of the Cardinal doesn't seem to excite you, it seems to me.

We have a saying:

It is best to stay behind the cannons,

in front of the mules and far away from the Cardinal.

For me, it's business - but for you, it's different.

I think this visit will bring you some important news.

Heaven knows, it needs to.

That's for certain. We are isolated from the world here.

We've been months without seeing any outsiders,

and today, they arrive together:

the Musketeers with a fellow countryman of yours,

and soon, even the Cardinal.

- Have you seen the Spanish noble? Who is he? - I couldn't see or hear anything.

I peeped through the keyhole, but shoulders were blocking my view.

You have heard that old saying? Do you recall it?

- No, I'm sorry. - "If it's not your affair, it's better not to listen",

- I'm not listening. - Not you, I meant her.

Ah, but you didn't hear what I heard.

- Were they discussing when to kill me? - Oh, no.

What then?

- They were talking about women. - Oh, well then...

I wouldn't have believed they could say such crude things!

That's because you haven't heard them talk about the Cardinal.

Eminence, it is my pleasure to welcome you.

Arise.

...And that's how the sailor managed to bed the daughter

without the approval of the Cardinal!

I will grab him by the neck just like this bottle, and then...

< - Now you must hear what I will do to our dear Cardinal Richelieu!

I think I might not sleep tonight!

- Because you haven't eaten dried figs? - Do figs make you sleep?

No, but they do make you thirsty, and one has to drink, drink, drink

- and, in the end, sleep inevitably comes! - Bravo!

A good plan!

You must visit us when the war is over.

We will drink together for 3 days in a row!

Speak up, D'Artagnan, what's that joke you'll play on Richelieu?

Well, listen here:

I will take a live bumblebee and put it in this glass!

- Empty? - Full!

- And I will have the Car... - His Eminence.

Messieurs.

Who will you have drink the bumblebee, Monsieur D'Artagnan?

I don't recall...

I will help you.

I heard the beginning of the word, you were about to say...

Carpenter, Eminence, a certain carpenter who has annoyed us.

I assume you are the Count of Seville.

Won't you sit, Eminence? We can speak more easily at the table.

Our correspondence has already covered all that needs to be said.

Have you the document?

Do me the honour of accompanying me into the armoury.

- Give me the plan, I want a look at it. - But it isn't here.

- Do you have the document? - Not at all.

What silly nonsense is this?

You have me rush from Paris just to listen to your jokes?

I would not dare make fun of Your Eminence,

I have stayed true to the terms of our agreement.

Keep it brief, where is the document?

In here.

Spy!

There is no safer place to hold a plan of fortifications.

So no-one in your country can brand you with the mark of traitor,

You have destroyed the evidence!

This does not concern you, D'Artagnan.

I can draw, for your eyes only, the plan of the fortress.

- I have longed for just this moment. - Let us go.

One moment, Eminence.

As I have respected our agreement, will you notify Donna Isabella to prepare?

I assume you have no objection to our leaving without delay.

Certainly, I also wish to conclude this matter as quickly as possible.

So, let us go.

Notify the Duchess.

The shame of it! We have allied ourselves with a spy.

And we drank with him as if he were our friend!

We also gave him the gift of a bottle of Burgundy.

That was my fault.

He still might make a fatal mistake. I hope he does.

Make yourself comfortable, Eminence.

Captain, will you please step outside?

The Cardinal and I must not be disturbed

for any reason.

Very well.

Close the door.

One moment only, if you please.

There is nothing better to help the inspiration

and reawaken the memory.

I don't need any.

Eminence, this is the most gratifying wine in all France!

- Would you not like a taste? - I suffer from gout. I do not drink.

I'm so sorry.

Count of Seville, I was informed

that you do not have your own escort.

Is this true?

Quite so, Eminence. I don't need an escort.

It was more than enough that you sent me the famous Musketeers.

My escort protects you here, in France,

but how about when you return to Madrid?

How can you protect Donna Isabella if you are travelling alone?

- I am sure that, once in Spain, I will be safe. - Ah, yes?

You clearly have a poor opinion

of the intelligence of your fellow citizens.

But, as for guarding Donna Isabella, what do you plan to do?

I see no difficulties.

As soon as you allow, I will place her into a carriage

with her personal maid, and all three of us will be gone.

In fact, there will be four in number, counting my servant,

assuming I can wake him from his day-dreaming.

And you think, with just this, you will be able to escape

any attempts at kidnapping?

There will be no need.

- You see, it won't be an escape, but a genuine kidnap. - I don't understand.

You will understand, once I tell you I am not actually the Count of Seville,

and I am not here to present you with the plans of the fortress!

You must take the fort with weaponry, just as I am taking Donna Isabella.

- And not by treason! - Are you mad? Put down that sword!

If you call out, I will kill you! Sancho!

You called me, master?

Tie him up.

Eminence, forgive me, but it is an order.

An order!

Usually spies look like spies.

He, on the contrary, doesn't!

- Seemingly... - It's tragic, right enough!

Don't you think it is important to know who is, and who isn't?

Whatever, spies serve a purpose.

This deed will help us win the war sooner than expected.

But to use a spy is the same as saying the swordsmen of France

are of no worth.

- Does that seem right? - No, I agree with you.

But what if this expedience allows us

to save thousands of human lives?

I would like to agree with you, for you have touched a tender spot.

But, Lord knows, a spy is always a filthy spy.

And this would be a good time

to stab a knife in his guts!

Messieurs, please! Keep calm! In the name of charity!

France can well use the plan of that impregnable fortress.

And he has brought it here.

Fair enough, but after he has given it to Richelieu,

the life of that scoundrel will no longer be so precious.

Don't you think he recognises that?

Who knows! In life many strange things happen!

Captain, His Eminence asks that you fetch Donna Isabella

and accompany her into the courtyard.

Wait for me down there. Don't forget.

Now then, Se�ors, will you come down?

After us.

Sancho.

You can load the trunks.

I expect you never thought you would be freed by

the Count of Seville in person.

- But, you... - Your devoted Count of Seville.

Please climb aboard.

I thank you, Count of Seville.

My horse!

Monsieur, that precious bottle...

Ah yes, I thank you once again, for your sublime courtesy.

We made a mistake, we would like it back.

Really?

This is not a request I was expecting.

Perhaps you feel it does not conform

with the rules of chivalry?

No, I have never met people more chivalrous than yourselves.

Enough! Give us back the bottle!

It is in my room, you can take it whenever you want it.

So, you have just left it behind in your room...

Tell me if that does not display distain for our gift.

Not only the gift, but also us!

I feel my stomach turning!

No-one should be allowed to live after we've been so offended!

I never had such intention. I apologise to you, Se�ors.

I have a long journey ahead of me.

Yes, a long journey from which no-one has returned!

Messieurs, I implore you to control yourselves!

The Count of Seville is under the protection of Car...

Cardinal Richelieu cannot interfere in our affairs!

My friends, excuse me, but there is no point to this discussion.

The truth is the wine is no more.

I drank it with the Cardinal and I assure you it was exquisite.

And, now the incident is closed,

I would like to salute you, thank you - and leave!

You wanted to send us to your room to find an empty bottle!

- An insult to be paid for in blood! - Messieurs, sheathe your swords!

You will obey, it is an order.

By Jove! What is this?

- He has thrown it from the window. - But I was here!

- You have tricked us just the same! - No, Se�ors! You are wrong!

He continues to offend us! On guard!

< - Messieurs! Lower your weapons, please!

Se�ors, this is only a question of etiquette!

So, please shake hands.

Have no fear, beautiful duchess, we will escort you safely to the border.

And you, Monsieur, take your guard!

God is my judge I have done everything to avoid this!

So I noticed, but now I will cut you to shreds!

- This is so wrong! - Let us pray for him!

For his soul, unfortunately.

Stubborn fools! You will hear from his Eminence!

This is incredible! Yet I can assure you that at court he was the laughing stock!

It pains me to admit it, but that spy knows how to handle a sword.

Yes, indeed, this isn't what I expected.

Usually traitors are cowardly.

< - To arms! To arms!

Take him! Arrest him!

He has deceived us all! He is not a spy!

Come and help me to untie the Cardinal!

- He has tied up the Cardinal! - He isn't a spy!

- Soldiers! Guards! Capture him. - Stop! Musketeers to me!

Aramis!

That cheeky devil has tricked the Cardinal!

- To us, the honour of running him through! - Stop! Surrender to us!

So, now you think to finish me?

- No, my friend! - Seeing you aren't the traitor we thought you were!

And you friends always stick together as a foursome?

Yes, especially when we are so naive not to see that

you can escape along this passage!

Thank you, my friends!

Who has him cornered? Arrest him!

We think the Musketeers. I did not realise they were so devoted!

I still don't believe it! Take him!

Come! With me!

With me!

- Eminence. - Go away!

Over here!

From this side the jump is not so far!

Here they come! Clash your blades!

Goodbye, my friends!

When the war is over, we must get together and share a bottle!

We will get together before that. I feel I must warn you

I will be back to free Donna Isabella!

That's a matter for the castle guards, you and the Cardinal!

- Goodbye! - See you soon!

I don't believe it!

- Well then? - He escaped!

The Devil he did! Come with me!

And now, let's go to the Cardinal.

He jumped from the battlements and is running towards the river!

- Follow him! - To horse!

Quickly! To horse!

< - With me!

- Where are you going? - To horse! - Come here!

- I fear we will be returned to our rooms. - It doesn't matter.

I will stay a prisoner for the rest of my life, just as long as I know he is safe.

With me!

Alas, Monseigneur, our combined force was no longer as invincible as it once was.

- So I noticed. - We are sorely disheartened.

I do not doubt it.

- And you surely ache to take your revenge. - Oh indeed, Eminence,

Well, I don't want to deprive you of that chance.

As I am certain our fake Count will try again to free her,

I am leaving the custody of Donna Isabella to the four of you.

- But, we aren't gaolers. - We are fighting men.

Our place is at the siege of Vandremond!

We aren't the type to guard fancy skirts!

And, if she does manage to escape, you will find yourselves in the Bastille.

Messieurs.

Can you believe Richelieu commissioned you as our guards

just to give you a change?

It might be of little benefit to you.

As gaolers, the Cardinal's men are more capable than we are.

If your friend tries again to get you out of here, he must be mad!

Perhaps, but all lovers are a little mad.

For this reason you think the Count...

Yes, Ma�uela, I swear he will marry me one day.

You have never spoken this way before.

What Spanish woman would brag about such a suitor?

Excuse me, but don't Spanish women admire men of action?

Oh yes! Very much.

But the Count of Terruel in no way has that sort of reputation.

What are you saying?

I did not believe my own eyes when I saw a sword in his hand.

I can say few handle a sword like him!

Well, to gain your love, he may have taken fencing lessons.

Impossible! One doesn't learn in a day how to fence like a master!

And yet, in Madrid, everyone will tell you that

he is considered weak and frivolous.

That's why I believe he is making fun of us.

- Ma�uela. - Not now!

There can be no other explanation.

And it wouldn't be surprising, since he is as cunning as a fox.

You say - a fox?

Yes, Your Grace, he is truly a fox.

A fox...

- You know the word for "fox" in Spanish? - Zorro.

I am safe! He is Zorro!

- Excuse me? - Come in.

Se�oritas. Se�ors.

My Captain presents his compliments

and asks that you prepare for departure.

Departure? Where to?

Paris.

The Musketeers are ordered to escort you.

< - By order of whom?

His Eminence, the Cardinal!

My Captain will meet you when you are ready to leave.

- That's good. - Good? It's wonderful!

Tell your captain we'll be ready in two minutes!

What if the Count comes to free you? You might at least leave Ma�uela here.

I am desolated, Monsieur, but I must also leave.

I'm so sorry.

...Anyone who tries to approach

will be immediately seen by my look-outs.

You are a natural-born strategist, my friend.

But where are the Musketeers? I haven't yet seen them.

Look for Donna Isabella, and there you will find the Musketeers.

They don't leave her for a moment.

And you allow this?

Of course. With those four always hanging onto her skirts,

she cannot possibly escape!

Not unless this situation actually fits in with her plans.

What plans? What do you mean?

This wouldn't be the first time

an attractive prisoner has seduced her gaolers.

By the horns of Beelzebub! I hadn't thought of that.

- Then think about it, Captain. - Of course.

Good, now let's complete our inspection.

Captain, what is happening here?

Hey, you, who is preparing to leave?

- The prisoners, sir. - The prisoners?

Yes, sir, along with the Musketeers.

Tell me, Captain! Who gave the order?

< - You did, sir. - I did?

That's what I heard.

Now I understand. It's as I said.

They are trying to get away right under your nose, Captain!

Everyone, stop!

In order to transport prisoners you must produce a written order!

- You must show it to us! - What?

Messieurs, explain to me what is happening here!

You know better than we do, given that we are carrying out your orders.

What orders? I haven't given any orders.

We were visited by one of your men.

That's right. He had a beard and a bandage over one eye.

There is no-one like that among my guards.

< - And no-one was sent with an order!

- You accuse us of being liars? < - Yes!

And I accuse you of trying to assist in the escape of Donna Isabella!

- Are you mad? - Captain, arrest them!

Messieurs, I must ask you to surrender your swords!

Come and take them!

Soldiers, to arms!

Forward! Attack!

Teach a lesson to these four good-for-nothings!

And what do you think you're doing? Fight!

Forward!

Open them!

Stop! We have been tricked! Stop!

Follow the carriage! Musketeers, to horse!

- Quickly, we must overtake it! - Mount up, quickly!

Go! Go!

You will have to turn back, dear friend.

Even though we don't disagree with what you doing!

I don't mind at all, Se�ors. Indeed...

I need collect a lot of money from your servants.

I won the bet!

Donna lsabella asked to be remembered to you

and to thank you for everything.

That Zorro! He has got away under our noses!

< - He has kept his promise! He will disappear into the bushes.

< - And the Cardinal will send us to the Bastille!

If you want to continue with the chase, please do so!

Your wish has been granted, Se�or.

BACK IN SPAIN...

- I will carry on alone to the Palace. - Can I not accompany you?

No, don't forget there is a price on your head.

The price is on the head of Zorro.

Someone at Court may have reported your identity.

You are right, you must go.

< - I have longed for this moment!

Even when I was locked up and afraid I would never see Madrid again.

Don't worry yourself any more, your troubles are at an end.

Yes indeed. At an end.

Are you not happy?

Somehow, in troubled times, a person...

< - Forgive me. Your carriage is ready, Se�orita.

We will be there immediately, go.

You were saying something.

It doesn't matter.

Goodbye, Isabella. Remember the story you will need to tell at Court.

When will I see you again?

When the Count of Terruel returns from the Americas.

I would like to tell your secret.

I would like everyone to know who you are, and your courage!

It cannot be, Isabella, too many rogues enjoy the confidence of the King.

So, you will continue to pretend you are a coward, a buffoon?

A buffoon that is of no interest to you.

What are you saying?

Tell me this, will you think of me?

Forgive me, how could I do otherwise?

Will you think tenderly of Zorro?

I will surely do so.

Isabella...

What you have told me, cousin, is extraordinary!

But what is even more surprising

is that Zorro kept his promise.

You are the only one who has seen him without his mask. Would you recognise him?

Of course. I will never forget that face.

Try to describe him.

He is blond, Sire, and he has blue eyes.

No, they aren't blue, they are grey.

In short, he is a handsome man.

And very, very courteous.

He may be a rogue, but he is of Spanish blood.

- I'm not sure whether I'll hang him! - Oh, Majesty!

- You should reward him! - Ah, I don't know about that!

Don't forget all his misdeeds!

However, he certainly played a nice trick on Richelieu!

Your story has amused me greatly!

Finally the wretch has taken a false step!

Soon we will have the pleasure of seeing him without his mask!

- Do you believe so? - lsabella has fallen in love with her saviour.

When she chooses a husband, we will know that he is Zorro!

But the King will pardon him because he rescued Donna lsabella.

That has yet to be seen!

A skilful accuser can turn a merit into a crime.

Ol�!

If it were up to me, I would write a letter to the Count of Terruel:

"Dear Friend, Please don't think we wish to play a dirty trick on you,

but we have come to Madrid to recapture Donna Isabella.

You must realise, after recent events, we need to do something impressive

in the eyes of Cardinal Richelieu. - That's right.

With this in mind, we are, as always, your affectionate enemies,

et cetera, et cetera."

Fair enough. The style isn't great, but the substance is right.

< - Shall I get a pen and some paper? - Yes.

< - Innkeeper! - I think it best to write AFTER we've kidnapped her.

That's also true!

Innkeeper, bring us some more wine!

- The servants know something. - Great news, messieurs.

Donna Isabella is getting engaged this evening.

Shhh, speak quietly in case we are discovered and hanged as spies!

- With the Count of Terruel? - Yes, he is back from the Americas.

From the Americas! He was with us in France!

They are giving a grand ball in celebration of the engagement.

At Court.

It seems there will be more than a thousand guests!

- I heard it was ten thousand! - Maybe five thousand.

Good. That means a lot of confusion. That is important for us!

Shhh, spies!

- With the compliments of the owner. - And what gifts do you bring?

- I have brought nothing. - Well...

Listen, didn't you say you left your heart in France with Ma�uela?

Yes, my heart is in France but my body is here!

I cannot believe my eyes.

The daughter of the Duke of Asturias, first cousin to the King,

engaged to the most ridiculed and foolish man in all Spain.

It is said, right across Europe, that no man is less worthy than he!

Donna Isabella could have anticipated a royal marriage,

but who can tell with women!

- For me, he seems utterly spineless. - Ooh, you're so right.

- He hasn't what it takes to be a real man. - If you say so!

The Count of Seville.

Now, he would be a spouse worthy of Donna Isabella!

An impeccable pedigree, and one of the finest blades in Spain.

Isabella, my love.

Make the announcement that the fortress of Vandremond has fallen.

The war is lost.

< - Se�ors.

His Most Catholic Majesty regrets disrupting this splendid evening,

but we have just received news that is most serious.

The fortress of Vandremond has fallen, and is in the hands of the French.

- The war is lost!

Isabella, don't worry about your father.

Luck is always with the valorous.

- Ramon, this is our moment. - I know what needs to be done.

- Captain. - At your command.

Take a dozen of your men, and gather my trusted followers.

Explain to them what has happened.

Majesty, I am sure the fort was strong - it fell because of treason.

Damnation! I know every soldier personally who defended it,

- starting with their captain! - But I tell you... - Close the door.

Well?

Sire, for a garrison of heroes like them to be defeated,

someone must have betrayed them from the outside.

I see, but who could have performed this outrage?

There is one villain who has benefitted a great deal!

Tell me...

I should never have escaped.

The French have taken revenge on my father!

The French are men of honour.

And now that the war is over, there is no need for you to worry.

Have faith in Providence, daughter.

His Majesty wishes to speak to you without delay, Count of Terruel'

Very well. Father...

I will wait for you; I am not tired.

Stay alert, captain. He is not a man, he is a demon!

If you let him escape, you will be hanged in his place.

< - Yes, Majesty.

Your Majesty.

< - At your command.

So, the time has come to settle accounts...

Zorro!

Zorro?

You speak, perchance, of the gentleman who left his mark

on the forehead of the Count of Seville?

Exactly, I speak of you.

< - Of me? Oh Majesty, I beg you!

you might as well call me Mohammed - or Tamerlane!

If you permit, Sire?

Tell us how you managed to persuade Donna Isabella

to become your fianc�e.

- Evidently I please her. - No, it because of what you've done.

You freed her from prison and she...

You know perfectly well I have no skill with a sword.

You didn't use a sword!

You sought Donna Isabella's freedom with deceit.

The French helped you stage the escape,

and you, in turn, sold them the plans of the fortress.

Majesty, excuse me, but you must not listen to this slander

by a man eaten up with jealousy.

The mask of Zorro is removed!

Do you deny you were in France when Donna Isabella escaped?

At that time, I was in the Americas.

- Did you have a good journey? - Excellent, both on the way out and back.

Going is possible, but not the return.

Perhaps you don't know that the Santa Cruz,

the ship on which you were to travel,

was sunk just off the coast of Africa!

Well, you have nothing to say?

None of this proves the accusations of the Count of Seville, Sire.

Majesty, we have searched the house of the Count of Terruel,

And this is what we found in his desk.

The seal of Richelieu.

The Cardinal promises to release Donna Isabella

in exchange for the plans of the fortress.

Here is proof of your treachery.

It would be proof if you can demonstrate the letter was addressed to me.

- You destroyed the envelope! - And the letter was in your home.

For me, the accusation is proven.

You will be beheaded in two days.

But, Your Majesty!

Try to rest now.

Then you can go to the King and plead for his mercy.

I will not be able to convince him. I know it...

Let us hope it is possible.

Go now, Pedro, and thank you.

Don't be afraid!

You, Se�ors? What are you doing here?

Grande-Duchesse, we have a thankless task.

- We must take you back to France. - Oh, no!

I beg you! Do not destroy my last chance to help him.

I pray I can convince the King

and prevent his death!

What's this? Does the King intend to kill himself?

- No, no... - Who is going to die, then?

The man I love!

Oh, Se�ors, I beg of you. Please show compassion for him.

Even though you must hate him

for that trick he played on you in Saint Denis.

- What... Are you talking about Zorro? - Yes.

He will be executed in two days.

For treason.

Incredible! Why, there is no man alive more loyal to his country!

He is accused of having lost the war for Spain.

Excuse me! We have beaten Spain?

- Is that what you're saying? Spain has lost? - Yes.

The fortress of Vandremond is taken.

Then the war is over!

Mademoiselle, we beg your pardon.

Since the war is over, we no longer have any reason,

under the rules of engagement, to take you captive.

So, we made this trip for nothing!

Friends, wresting our dear enemy from the hands of the executioner

seems to me a much more useful exploit!

- And more fun! - What do you say?

There is nothing to discuss!

Indeed, it'll be a good way of showing Zorro we are just as heroic as he is!

Oh, Se�ors, I am so grateful!

Say nothing of it. In a way, it's a fine chance to get our revenge on him!

A revenge worthy of four true gentlemen.

Your confessor.

I have no sins to confess. I seek only peace.

Peace of the mind, my son, is equivalent to salvation of the body.

Pray with me, no miracle is impossible

to those who have faith and hope.

You are the last person I expected to see before I die!

Don't talk about dying before being led out for hanging!

Beheading, if you please!

I am nobility!

You are to be denied the pleasure.

My friends and I have decided to free you.

Many thanks, you are the best enemies a man could have.

But don't you think it will be a little difficult?

You must pull yourself together.

Water to cure your sorrows!

Listen. Tomorrow, when they take you to the gallows,

I will be there to offer comfort that is more or less spiritual.

I fear your ministrations will not open the Gates of Heaven for me.

You won't be going to Heaven just yet.

On the gallows, in place of the executioner, will be Porthos.

D'Artagnan and Athos will be there as his assistants.

Their faces will be hidden by caps, do you see?

But what will happen when the executioner fails to behead me?

There will be chaos!

But how will your friends

take the place of the executioner and his henchmen?

Don't worry. We already have that in hand!

Drink up, my friends. There is nothing better than a good glass of wine

to prepare oneself for an execution!

Tomorrow is an important one! We are beheading a nobleman.

How about you, are the people of Paris difficult to please?

Ah, I wouldn't say that!

Of course it is hard work, seeing that all the executions are entrusted

to us, the family Sansoun.

Then, let us drink to the health of the family Sansoun!

- On your feet! - I am on my feet! - Ah...

But, you see, despite our skills,

we are always eager to learn what you do abroad.

That is why we are making a study trip across Europe.

Quite right! We must strive to improve, for the good name of the profession!

- The profession! - The profession!

I imagine you have many new things to teach us!

Well, we use the garrotte for executions in Spain.

- Long live the garrotte! - Hurray!

With the garrotte, I, in all modesty, have the nimblest hands in Spain.

- You know, there is a collar... - A collar! - A collar...

- that tightens around the neck by turning a screw. - A screw!

A screw... I am able to turn the screw one millimetre at a time!

- One millimetre! - One millimetre. That way, the torture lasts longer!

- To your health! < - Greetings, friends!

My regards! What good and distinguished company!

But I see you have empty glasses!

We must put that right!

Do not drink too much. Tomorrow we have a job to do.

Why! Last time, I drank all night

until they came to call me to the execution.

- And did you feel alright? - Never better!

Ah... nevertheless!

Then, let's drink!

Tavern-keeper, more wine!

So, you pulled back their beds, and there was no sign of them!

We will take on their jobs.

You don't often get a beheading.

- You might as well bring the kids! - No, they've been naughty all week!

I beseech you, come away.

Do not watch such a horrible thing.

- He will soon be out there. - I...!

Forgive me, Ma�uela.

I have been so distraught that I haven't even asked how you've been.

I've already told you everything.

After your flight, they

took Sancho and me to the frontier.

Please, do not cry.

I am so frightened!

But if the Musketeers promised to save him,

you can be easy in your mind.

If I were in your place, I'd be looking forward to the future.

Do not worry yourself, Zorro. You can rely on me.

My son, you need to show humility and repentance

if you wish to save your soul.

Yes, but if I remember correctly it also saves the body.

The body? This is something new.

Really? What is this? An attack of the jitters, perhaps?

What is this nonsense you are saying, my son?

A little contrition at the threshold of your death wouldn't hurt.

But you are a monk!

And who else would you think I was?

Nothing, except...

We will say together the words of Psalm 130, "De Profundis..."

It is not right, the executioner not already being here!

We cannot delay the execution much longer.

My men are looking for him throughout the city.

- All will be well, you will see. - My master thought the plan through.

- You mean your master thinks as well? - What are you suggesting?

Take it easy, we were kidding!

Hey, fellows! The horses have been snaffled.

- Who took them? - What? - The horses!

- Snaffled - I mean saddled, not stolen! - I get it! Explain things properly!

Hey, see that mug over there, friends, don't you recognise it?

- Which one? - That one next to the old one!

- Sure, it's Sancho! - Hey, Sancho!

- Sancho! - Come here!

- Sancho! - How are things? - Have you come to see the show?

Do you think I find pleasure

in watching my Master killed on a scaffold?

What do you mean?

The show is when our masters save yours!

- The Musketeers, here? - Yes!

He didn't know!

- Stop that!

Jos�! Pablo! Wake up!

Wake up!

What's the time?

Hey, Pablo! Wake yourself up!

Wake up, may the Devil take it!

On your feet! Wake up, you good-for-nothings!

Up you get! Move yourself!

What are you doing?

You won't be butchering our friend!

No, not me. This time it will be Master Pedro on the gallows!

- Who is he? - My substitute! He'll handle the execution today!

Let me go!

- Tie them up. - Yes, and quickly as possible.

Lads, you're supposed to tie him up, not me!

Do you hear that? The procession is getting close. It will soon be here.

Listen to them jeering!

- Beneath the friar's cassock is Aramis. - Magnificent.

- Shhh! - And under the executioner's hood is Porthos.

When he lifts the axe, that is the signal.

And then we all get involved in the action.

- We? - Yes, certainly.

- Including you! - But, on foot?

- Shhh! - Shhh!

- On foot? - A horse.

- A horse! - A horse?

A horse...'

Quick! Be quick!

I swear I'll never drink more than a dash of wine again in my life!

That won't help in extending the life of Zorro!

We can't do anything now, other than pray for his soul!

There are fast horses in the stable!

So there are! It's time for desperate measures!

There will be at least 300 men in the square!

Wait! In the courtyard is a wagon of timber, with horses harnessed!

- What do you want to do? - Quickly, come with me!

Porthos, my master!

Don't hesitate this time! Cut off the damned head!

Treachery! Arrest them!

Did you see?

Now that your father is back, dear cousin,

I wish to see you sad no longer.

You know very well, Majesty, that my worries are not over.

Your daughter is ungrateful, dear uncle.

I have arranged a husband for her of whom you should be well pleased.

The Count of Seville, who unmasked the traitor.

I have already said, Sire, there was no treason.

We lost because we ran out of food and ammunition...

Ah yes, maybe so! But Richelieu's letter is quite clear.

Also the behaviour of Zorro. If Your Majesty will permit.

If he is innocent, why has he not come to clear himself?

The Count of Terruel!

Count of Terruel, your presence at Court is not welcome.

Pardon me, Sire. I am here to ask you to receive

four gentlemen from France,

They have come especially from Paris to prove the innocence of Zorro.

- His Majesty sees no-one without the proper introductions! - Just a moment.

I am intrigued by this idea

of giving audiences to anyone.

- Have them enter. - Thank you, Majesty.

Let us listen to the other side in this case!

Majesty, permit me to present the four French gentlemen.

- Gentlemen... - Athos.

Porthos.

- Aramis. - D'Artagnan.

Musketeers to His Majesty, the King of France.

Such magnificent soldiers.

Se�ors, if you would like to enter the service of the King of Spain,

I would make you all Captains!

Majesty, we have a service that must be rendered without delay.

Please have the goodness to read this letter.

Good Heavens, who sent this? His Eminence.

Not really, Sire.

It was found in the desk of His Eminence, Cardinal Richelieu.

and we, skillfully...

And so, brave Count of Seville,

it was you who sold the plans of the fortifications!

Arrest him! Stop him!

Don't let him escape!

Take him!

- Musketeers, to me! - How thrilling!

Count of Seville, this time I feel no compassion for you!

Take care, clumsy one! You might stumble onto my sword!

Back up, blackguard!

Scoundrel! Just the two of us!

Trapped, you miserable rogue!

< - Are you looking for me?

Here I am!

Sire, if you believe that to fight

for honour and justice is a crime, then I am a criminal.

No, that you are not.

Arise, Count of Terruel.

I have failed you.

How can I be forgiven for my injustice, my mistakes?

Can you not guess?

< - My thanks also to you, proud Musketeers.

I repeat my invitation: if you would like to stay with us...

Thank you, Majesty, but we must return to France.

A pity.

< - Goodbye, Zorro. - Goodbye, my friends.

Whenever you have need of me, remember that I owe you my life.

We'll remember you as a friend ready to come to our aid,

but not as a debtor.

- You don't owe us anything. - We simply repaid a courtesy.

- What, excuse me? - The same.

- You also saved OUR lives! - But, of course!

If we hadn't had your hot potatoes to pull out of the fire,

we would've died of boredom!

To the next time, then!

Your Majesty!