Original subtitles

What's all that hammering?

Jake the hangman.

Greasing up his gallows for us, lads.

T'ain't funny, George.

T'ain't funny at all.

There, that'll help a bit.

Aye, that it does, Doctor, though it's a little late

to be worrying about my neck now.

- You never can tell. - Yeah, I hope you're right.

By your leave, gentlemen, by your leave.

Well, if ain't the governor himself.

And his Lord Chamberlain,

the keeper of the keys.

Come to join us in a dish of tea, no doubt.

Quiet, boys, can't you see

he's posting a royal proclamation?

You have an hour to get ready, one hour.

- Outta the way. - Yes.

Hark to this.

Having weighed the evidence in connection with the crimes

upon which you have been tried,

convicted, and condemned to death,

his Majesty's Privy Council is graciously pleased

to commute the aforesaid sentences to transportation

to New, New South Wales for life,

Ned Inching, pickpocket,

the Reverend Mortimer Thynne, traitor,

Thomas Oakly, highwayman,

Hugh Tallant, highwayman.

How about us?

Some blokes has all the luck.

Give you a quid for your place, Parson.

Too bad there's no longer transportation to America, Hugh.

Then, you'd have a free trip home.

I'll take New South Wales.

Where would New South Wales be?

Who cares?

The important thing is we've only got another hour

in this filthy hole.

I doubt the governor will know when the hour's up.

Why not?

Seems he forgot his watch.

New South Wales, Botany Bay.

It's all one to me.

Where is Botany Bay, sir?

The other side of the world, young man,

even further than Mr. Tallant's America.

Will there be savages, sir?

He said the land's full of wild men nine feet tall.

That sounds fascinating.

Is it so, Reverend, sir?

I don't think they're as tall as that.

Don't be afraid, son.

Nine foot tall or 29 foot, I'll look out for you.

I wonder who'll look out for me, Parson.

That's easily answered.

At your service, ma'am.

Ahoy, the shore.

Ground ahoy.

Ground ahoy.

Seven prisoners for the shuttle.

Come on side. Get them on.

Cast your grab line.

Watch your instruments.

They're coming up for the gear.

Yeah, boat is fast. I call you on nines.

Oakly, get a move on.

- Step lively. - Yeah, all right.

- Inching. - That's me.

Thynne, Nellie Garth, Nat Garth.

Be careful, Nat, boy.

Mind ye foot there, lads,

Sally Munroe, Hugh Tallant, come on.

Get up the ladder.

I'm not sure I want to risk my life on a tub like this.

Better do as you're told.

What business is it of yours?

— Stop your jawing and get up the ladder.

Suppose I don't.

We got ways of taking care of people like you.

Brown, put her aboard.

I'd like to see you try.

Come on, my pretty.

- Come with us. - Let go.

- Let go. - Come with us.

Let me outta here.

Get me outta this thing.

Get outta here.

Would you look what flew up outta of the sea?

A blooming mermaid.

Will you get me outta this thing?

With pleasure, your Ladyship.

Watch it now, Hurst.

Did you hurt yourself, me lady?

Keep your flippers off that one, matey.

I seen her first.

Yes, he did.

In a well spot, he did.

All right.

Get your knife out, matey.

I'll slice enough salt also off your gut to feed a ship.

- Bo's'n. - Aye, aye, sir.

- Who has the watch? - Mr. Spencer, sir.

Where is he?

Below deck, sir, inspecting the prisoners.

What have we here?

More prisoners, sir.

So I see.

So I see.

And some men begging for a touch of the cat?

Ah, they was only having a bit of a lark, sir.

Put those knives away and go below.

Aye, aye, sir.

Mr. Spencer.

- Mr. Spencer. - Coming sir, coming.

Are you or are you not the mate of the watch, Mr. Spencer?

I am, sir, but I was tween decks-

I want this understood once and for all.

I'm a peaceful man, and I have a great liking

for a peaceful ship.

Yes, sir.

You must be the Reverend Dr. Thynne.

Yes, Captain.

- Bo's'n. - Sir.

Escort this gentleman to my quarters

and strike off his fetters at once.

Aye, sir.

As to the other prisoners...

- Sir, I'd like to thank you. - For what?

Why, for saving me from those men.

What is your name?

Sally Munroe, my lord.

Perhaps a lord someday should a relative or two die,

but at the moment, Captain Paul Gilbert,

mate of His Majesty's Navy and owner of this vessel.

Are you with this man?

No, sir, I never saw him before in my life.

Have the prisoners taken below.

Yes, sir.

- Sentry. - Yes, sir.

Take the women to their quarters first.

All right, you two, come along with me.

Boy, you're to go with the men.

I don't want to leave

- my mother's side. - Do as you're told.

- It'll be all right, lad. - Come along.

Mr. Spencer.

Yes, sir.

Those men you permitted to brawl on deck.

Yes, sir.

They'll be brought before me for punishment tomorrow.

Very well.

And to their names, kindly add your own.

Stand by below, female prisoners.

This way, over there.

Welcome to Hampton Court, ladies.

Welcome yourself.

Come on, you.

Get in there. Come on.

Oh, stow it.

You and your fine feathers,

someone'll have 'em off your back before all night's out.

- I don't think so. - Hmm, we'll see.

They bring the male prisoners down yet?

- They're inside. - Then let me through.

Why should I do that?

I have a message for two of 'em from Nick Sabb.

And who might Nick Sabb be?

Well, you're new aboard, ain't ya?

The richest fence in London, he was, before they caught him

and still rich enough to buy a little favour now and then.

Am I making myself clear?

You are.

Oh, I don't who he was.

Something besides slop.

Pipe down, pipe down.

Which of you is Oakly and Inching?

That's us.

Well, get up.

Come this way with me.

Not you.

But where are we going to sleep here?

Anywhere you like, my bully boy,

and keep your mouth shut unless anybody speaks to ya.

What is it?

Oakly and Inching, Mr. Sabb.

Well, bless me soul.

I'd almost given ya up for lost, gentlemen.

Sabb, fat old lip.

All the comforts of home and taverns,

the finest Stinger and plenty more

in the barrel where this came from.

Anything else, Mr. Sabb?

Bring the rest of their belongings.

- Then we're to live here? - Where else?

How did you know we'd be be on the Charlotte?

I arranged it with the aid

of a few well-placed tokens, uh, but don't thank me.

I imagine there'll be openings at Botany Bay for the firm

of Oakly, Inching, and Sabb.

Throats cut while you wait.

If you're agreed, that is.

- I'm for it. - And you, Tom?

Aye, if you can find room for one other.

Who?

- My charge, Hugh Tallant. - What's he doing aboard?

The same as the rest of us.

Odd, very odd indeed.

Fetch him, will you, Ned?

Can't be my sources of information were wrong.

Bring me that strong box, Tom.

Aye.

- This one? - Yes.

Now.

Oh, here it is, the latest London broadsheet.

Hugh, this is Nick Sabb.

- Who's the boy? - My name's Nat Garth, sir.

He's with us.

Oh.

His Majesty's Privy Council yesterday reconsidered

the conviction of Hugh Tallant, American,

for armed robbery on the highway.

Documents newly arrived from Maryland prove

the money stolen was part of a 20,000-pound legacy

from Ezra Tallant, great uncle of Baltimore.

It is reported a royal pardon has been authorised.

Your freedom and a fortune.

That calls for a round in celebration.

Not so fast, me laddie box.

The Charlotte sails at daybreak.

It's near midnight now.

The king's messenger, even if he's on his way,

is snoring peacefully in some cosy inn.

Course, you could speak to the captain.

I have to.

It can be arranged if you have the money.

I have no money.

- That's a pity. - Don't be a fool, Nick.

Didn't you just read he was a rich man?

Lad, go tell the guard Nick Sabb wishes to see him.

Yes, Mr. Sabb.

I imagine, since you're a friend of Governor Philip,

he told you the Charlotte is destined

to travel in solitary splendour.

We'll not overhaul the fleet short of Botany Bay.

How long will the voyage take?

Eight months with luck, it's 16,000 miles.

Excuse me.

You wanted to see me, sir?

Enter please.

It's all right, Bo's'n.

Captain.

What is it?

This man, sir, says he has to see you

about a matter of life and death.

It's not that bad, sir, but it is important.

- What's your name? - Tallant, Hugh Tallant.

Wait here. I'll attend to you in a moment.

You're listed as an actress.

Yes, sir, the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

Five years transportation,

theft of a necklace from a certain gentlemen.

I prefer to call it a slight argument

over who owned the necklace.

Having heard of the gentleman, I can understand.

Then you don't think me a dangerous criminal?

No more criminal than this gentleman here,

who along with a good many others dislikes a German king

on the English throne, but you are dangerous, ma'am,

a veritable spark in a powder keg.

There are 148 men aboard the Charlotte.

And some 30-odd women.

Slatterns and chained below.

I'm in chains, too, or hadn't you noticed?

If you are forward,

I shall keep you in your present condition.

However, I was thinking of giving you separate quarters

and a certain measure of freedom.

In return, I must ask you to hold yourself aloof.

A journey as long and tedious as this affords

many opportunities for mischief.

I'm sure that you and the, uh,

Reverend Gentleman here can keep me out of mischief.

Don't you think so, Parson?

We can try.

Mr. Spencer.

See to the lady's shackles.

Yes.

Now, this matter of life and death,

what was your crime?

Armed robbery on the King's Highway, sir.

- Innocent, I suppose. - No, sir.

That at least is a novelty, the one guilty man aboard.

But the one man aboard that I know

of who has a pardon on the way.

I've just learned

that the Privy Council has reconsidered my case.

If you read this, sir, you'll see that the money

I was charged with stealing was my own,

part of a 20,000-pound inheritance.

Imposing sum, but how exactly does one set

about stealing one's own money?

Oh, for one thing

you need a dishonest London agent.

Mm-hmm, go on.

And an uncle in Maryland.

You see, he was sending me money

so I could finish my apprenticeship at Cauldwell Hospital,

but the money never came, and I had to give up my studies.

Then, I learned from a bookkeeper in the agent's office

the money had come.

I accused the agent of pocketing it,

but, well, sir, I had no proof,

and the bookkeeper was afraid to speak.

So one night when I learned

that the agents went on the Liverpool stage,

I, I and a friend of mine arranged to have it stopped.

I only took what was mine, sir.

My friend was wounded, and, well, we were caught.

Most unfortunate for both of you,

what would you have me do about it?

Could you delay sailing

for a few hours until the pardon arrives?

My instructions are to leave with the morning tide.

Should I miss it and the weather change?

I might be here for days.

The authorities will be angry,

and there will be the additional expense

of feeding some 200 souls.

Maybe you could put me ashore under guard.

One man more or less

at Botany Bay can't make much difference.

You're an American, aren't you?

- Yes, sir. - And a medical student.

You could be quite useful aboard ship

since we've no surgeon.

And as to New South Wales, the wilds of a new country,

it should hold no terrors for a man of your birthplace.

I see.

I'm wasting your time as well as mine.

Mr. Spencer, take the man below

and see that he stays there.

Very well, sir.

Come on.

Struggling medical student, money from America,

dishonest agent,

armed robbery in the middle of the night,

it would do well for the plot of one

of your Drury Lane concoctions, wouldn't it?

Except there's no part in it for me.

Perhaps it's just as well.

Brown.

Take this man to the tween decks

and see that his leg irons are well secured.

Aye, aye, sir.

Man overboard.

Have you got him?

He went over the side like a vanishing bird.

Do you see anything?

Not a sign.

No, nor will there be,

not with him carrying the weight of those leg irons.

Perhaps he's lucky at that.

- Bo's'n. - Aye, sir.

Notify the captain and be quick about it.

Aye, aye, sir.

Charlotte, ahoy.

Aye, who goes there?

Shore boat coming alongside.

Stand by for me bell line.

Aye, aye.

There's someone in the water, sir.

Stand by to pull him in.

- I've got him, sir. - Grab him.

Pull him in.

In with ya, me boy.

Come on.

Hold him down.

Pin his legs.

Trying to escape, are ya?

I don't want any danger of infection.

Have you the salt ready for his wounds?

Yes, sir.

Then you may proceed with the punishment

as soon as you're ready.

The sentence is 50 lashes,

each stroke to be counted clearly.

Aye, aye, sir.

I've had the cat meself, matey.

No matter how bad it hurts, keep the weight on your feet,

and don't put the strain on your arms.

- Thanks. - Stand by.

It's regrettable that this has to happen,

but this is a merchant ship with only a file

of Marines to maintain order.

We have a long voyage ahead of us

and a ship filled with criminals.

One.

You might think these proceedings to be unduly harsh,

but I assure you it is necessary.

Two.

Shipboard, as in all accepted forms of civilised society,

authority has to be enforced.

Three.

Commands have to be obeyed

with celerity and without question.

Four.

It's an unpleasant sight.

Perhaps you'd be well advised to follow her.

Five.

Six.

Seven.

Eight.

Next time, I'll have a plan.

You intend to try again?

If I can get help.

You can count on me.

- Me too. - But not me.

I'm too fond of me hide for that.

There'll be 1,000 pounds waiting in London

for every man who helps me get free.

1,000 pounds?

That's a great deal of money.

We're 800 miles off the coast of South America.

Making good headway we are.

I'd best be getting up on deck now, Mr. Tallant.

The captain will be wanting his dinner soon.

Don't forget now. Keep your ears open.

We wanna know what's going on.

- Yes, sir. - And your mouth shut.

Yes, Mr. Sabb.

We should reach Rio by the end of the month.

If the wind holds.

- We all ready? - We will be, Hugh.

I told you the day we sight the coast, boat in provisions.

Why aren't the provisions ready now?

Well, it's a delicate matter,

what with the guard's watching, and tales of informers

among the prisoners, and the Captain thirsting for blood.

We're risking our necks every minute.

If I hadn't-

Sir.

What now?

Another knock of the dark for the ladies.

They've swilled enough rum already to float a ship.

Here's a breach.

Was a day I wouldn't bother with a trifle like this,

but business is business.

Make sure they don't filch the muck.

20 pounds I've netted, and there's half an hogshead left.

A long way from 1,000 pounds.

You're right, me boy, but don't you worry.

Nick Sabb's not one to let 1,000 pounds pass.

Now for me weekly shave.

I pays high to get the water.

As long as I have it, I'll share it with you.

We gents need to keep up appearances.

Tallant, work party, report on deck.

Hurry up.

Sailmaker, raise up the foreyard.

Aye, sir, hands to the foreracers.

Aye, aye.

Cure the balsa with the holy stone.

Look at them, chained and prodded about like animals,

worst possible way to reform them.

Most of them look past all reformation.

I disagree, young lady.

Most of them, in fact, are not even criminals.

Well, what are they then?

Unfortunate souls fallen foul of harsh

and unjust laws with no more against them than the theft

of a few potatoes or half a loaf of stale bread.

You'll find Governor Philip agrees with me

when we reach Botany Bay.

What do you think will happen to me there?

Well, you'll be given a wonderful chance.

You'll be taught cooking, baking,

washing clothes, weaving, sewing.

You might find it a little difficult at first.

Yes, I might.

Of course, if you found a husband...

What then?

The governor plans to give married couples land,

land and the freedom to work it.

That sounds a little better.

Now, which one shall I marry, Parson?

The sea evidently agrees with you, Mistress Sally.

You look very well.

Thank you, sir.

Stand by for time sites.

Parson, didn't you tell me yesterday

the captain had a wealthy wife?

Yes, I did.

She's a very great heiress,

the Earl of Selingham's daughter.

I think I have heard of her brother, Lord Cannon.

Yes, you've heard of him.

He's reputed to be the worst rake in London,

but I don't quite understand you.

You will later on.

Now, about the prisoners, I think you're right.

In fact, I think you should ask the captain

to give them more freedom.

We might even suggest the young doctor be made ship surgeon.

You're embarking on a dangerous game, young lady.

I've always been clever at games,

and you did say you were in favour

of reforming our fellow prisoners, didn't you?

Yes, I did.

Captain, I should like to speak to you about the prisoners.

For one thing, it seems inhuman

to keep them fettered while exercising on deck,

and I hear there is much sickness, so-

I shall be glad to hear what you've heard, Parson,

after I've established my noon position.

- Watch the helm. - Aye, sir.

Time.

- Make eight bells. - Eight bells it is, sir.

I have 68 degrees, 34 minutes, and two tenths, Mr. Green?

Five tenths more, sir.

Mr. Spencer?

I'm two degrees off your reading, sir.

Not once on this voyage have your readings tallied

with mine and Mr. Green's.

Now, with Mr. Green's help,

do you think you can plot our position?

- Yes, sir. - Then do so.

Now, Parson, I'm all attention.

Well, I, I wanted to speak to you about the-

Watch out. You're too close.

Aye, sir.

Open up.

Is the prisoner Tallant ready?

On deck, follow me.

- Sergeant. - Yes.

I see your arm's no better.

- No. - Mind if I look at it?

I told you it wouldn't be right

for a ship's officer to be treated by one of the prisoners.

- Who's to know? - I won't discuss it.

Come on.

- Mr. Spencer. - Yes.

May I speak to the ship's surgeon?

- Who would that be? - Why, Mr. Tallant, of course.

I happen to know the captain's going

to offer you the position.

But I'm no surgeon.

You studied medicine, and as surgeon,

you're going to have freedom of the ship.

Of course, you'd have to give your pledge not to escape.

I promised the captain you'd do that.

What else did you promise him?

I'm to be indebted to his lady.

I'd like to know how deeply.

You're a fool, Tallant.

How's it feel with that iron still?

Light as a feather, that's how I feel.

Here comes the queen.

And all dressed up in her Sunday best.

Uh, tell me, fancy piece, too good

for us common folk, ain't ya?

Rip off her finery, Moll.

Leave her alone, Moll.

She's doing you no harm.

Mind your own business, ya fat sow.

Fat sow, ya slag.

Hey there, stop it.

Do you hear me? Stop it.

Hey, stop it. Do you hear me?

Stop it.

Try to, try to kick him.

Stop those wenches fighting.

They're outta hand there.

Reload, sentry.

If there's any further disturbance,

I shall order the deck swept with musket fire.

Remove the net, onto your feet, all of you.

Against my better judgement, I was persuaded

by Dr. Thynne to exercise a certain clemency.

I ordered you relieved of your fetters

and allowed you privileges on deck, and now this exhibition.

What have you to say for yourselves?

Well, you see it was like this, Captain.

- We was dancing a... - Silence.

Insurrection and impertinence,

what have you to suggest now, Parson?

You shall have 20 lashes.

As for the others, Mr. Green, restore their leg irons,

and by way of an example, select three of them

to have their heads shaved.

Aye, aye, sir.

Guard, escort Mistress Munroe to my cabin.

- Mr. Spencer. - All right,

get fired, all of ya.

For failure to preserve order,

you are again admonished,

the fact again to be entered in the log.

I did what I could, sir, but with this arm.

Is it my fault that, in addition to being incompetent,

you are a cripple?

Well, sir, will you answer me?

It is not your fault, sir.

You change your mind about your arm, Mr. Spencer,

just give me the word.

Wait outside.

The women seem to have taken a dislike to you, my dear.

I trust you're unharmed.

More or less.

I see on your shoulder a scratch.

Perhaps we should send for the new surgeon.

He refused the position.

- You talked with him? - Only a few words.

Pity on a skin so smooth.

And ruined the only decent dress I have.

There's thread and needle in the ship's store,

and I'm sure material of some kind can be found.

Don't I owe you too much already?

Yes, and I think it's time we talked of payment.

You're not gonna be alarmed, are you?

Violence is foreign to my nature,

but you have enjoyed a favourite position on board ship,

private cabin, special privileges, special food.

Either these pleasant conditions continue,

or you return below with the other women,

and I hesitate to think what'll happen

to you, feeling as they do.

You leave me little choice.

You're very wise and very lovely,

and I think you'll find me not unappreciative.

I'm sure, but in a way, this is a pity.

How?

I shall have to destroy those letters I intended

to send from Rio and write others in their place.

Letters to whom?

- Lord Cannon. - Selingham's son?

I thought I'd told you.

Jack and I were friends in London.

He has the reputation of a rake.

I found him quite constant.

I'd written such glowing accounts

of your kindness and chivalry.

Why change them?

Jack made me promise to tell him

exactly what went on aboard the Charlotte.

I suppose it was because of his sister, your wife, Helen.

Now, with your permission, sir, I'll leave.

Escape's getting closer every day.

Look what Tom lifted for the longboat,

ship's lantern, rope for rigging sails,

canvas, and a file to cut off your shackles.

It's good for a start.

But how do we get the longboat over the side?

I'll think of a way

if I have to sink the Charlotte to do it.

All right, Tom.

- That you, Ned? - Aye.

Gents, look at what Ned Inching run onto.

What is it?

Token of esteem from the tenants of the Earl of Selingham

to Captain Paul Gilbert on the occasion

of his marriage to Lady Helen Cannon.

- His boat compass. - Fancy made and fancy mounted

and a mighty handy thing for Hugh to have.

Handy?

Handy enough to get us all hanged from the yard arm.

- But I thought- - Who told you to get it?

Well, nobody.

- You take it back. - How can I?

Might be days before I got

a sure chance again.

Mr. Sabb.

What do you want?

The mate wants Tallant in his cabin.

Be right there.

Find a chance to get it back in quick.

You understand?

Yes, Hugh.

It'll be 50 lashes at least if I'm caught.

Worse, if I know the captain.

Let me take it, Ned.

I'm in and out of his cabin day and night.

Would be easy for me.

Give us your hand, boy.

You're a perishing genius. That's what.

There's no doubt about it, Mr. Spencer.

The arm has been set improperly.

You sure you can remedy it?

Yes, but I'll have to re-break it,

and, well, it'll hurt.

I'd put it in fire if I thought

it would make it right again.

Then I'm to go ahead?

Whenever you're ready.

There's just one thing that bothers me, though, the fee.

I have a little money in my sea chest but not very much.

I wasn't thinking of money, Mr. Spencer.

When we provision at Rio,

the supply barges come alongside, don't they?

No, Tallant, I have no cause to like this ship

or its master, but I know my duty.

All you have to do is turn your back for a minute, Mr. Spencer.

I think it's a small fee for a mended arm.

It's a fee I'll not pay.

All right, we'll forget the fee.

I don't know that I like any of this.

By rights, I should inform the captain immediately.

Light it along current.

Light along current for the sail locker.

Get a move on,

or you'll get a taste of a rope's end.

Bear a hand.

Get that sail along to the sail locker.

Let me go, sir.

I wasn't doing anything.

Not much you weren't.

What is it, Mr. Green?

I caught him outside your cabin

with your boat compass, sir.

Lucky I happened to be passing by.

Very lucky.

What have you to say for yourself?

Nothing, sir.

You did intend to steal my compass?

Speak up.

Yes, sir, I did.

"- The sentence for theft is 100 lashes we" applied

and solitary confinement on bread and water

until such time as I see fit to release you.

However, in view of your age,

I will suspend the flogging.

Take him below.

And Mr. Green, return that to my cabin.

Aye, aye, sir.

Couldn't I speak to my mother first, sir?

I'm afraid not, son.

Present from Nick Sabb.

What's it for?

Little talk with the boy.

But you make it short.

I'm only relieving Sim while he goes to get the food.

Over to you.

Nat.

Mr. Tallant.

That was a very brave thing you did today.

I couldn't very well tell on Mr. Inching.

I know, Ned, not and be a man.

We'll see you don't suffer for too much, though.

I'm all right, but it's awful dark down here.

Yeah, what's going on?

Business, business that we've been paid for.

Come on.

We'll feed Connors his ration.

Tallant, I'll give you one minute more.

Will you tell my mother you saw me?

I'll do that right away, Nat.

Blast me guts.

Gone and died on us.

He's stiff as a bowling pin.

That ain't natural, not so quick.

No, it ain't.

Did you see his skin?

He's all covered with black spots.

Plague, that's what it is.

And you touched him, plague, plague, plague.

We want the captain, and we want him quick.

Let us pass, or we take to the boats.

No cause to die like this.

Be all very well free to shout silence, Mr. Spencer.

We going up whether he like it or not.

Back, or there'll be violence.

Hold it.

The surgeon.

You'll all get yourself in trouble for no cause at all.

Plague no cause?

Not the plague, it's scurvy.

I'll give you my word.

Scurvy?

You know what scurvy is.

I examined him, and there's not a trace of plague.

All he needed was a decent meal.

Better go below before the captain sees ya.

After this, you keep your mouth shut.

Come on all of you, back to your quarters.

I wonder what Captain Gilbert would've thought

if they'd gone pouring into his cabin.

They would never have reached my cabin,

at least not alive.

Come here, both of you.

Mr. Spencer, it is now quite obvious

you are a hopelessly incompetent officer.

I will enter that in the log

as well as the fact you are permanently relieved

as second mate on this date.

Stand still while I'm talking to you.

The bo's'n will take over your former duties.

Move your gear forward to the folks at once.

You may resume your duties.

How is it, Tallant, you were so sure it wasn't plague?

My father and mother died of the plague in Baltimore.

Hmm.

For leaving your quarters without permission,

I should punish you.

But that might be ungrateful.

I shall content myself

with cautioning you against such liberties in the future.

Mr. Tallant.

May I ask you something?

Why did you refuse to be ship surgeon

when you're doing all the work anyway?

Was it because you'd have to give your word not to escape?

Would you?

Yes, if it meant I'd do better here and at Botany Bay.

I don't want any favours from anywhere.

What do you want?

I wanna do what I set out to do, be a doctor.

Tell me the real reason, or don't you even know it?

Maybe I don't like leg irons.

It's time you decided to make the best of them.

Why?

Because the odds against escape are 1,000

to, a million to one.

Even if you do get away,

you'll probably have to run the rest of your life.

I'd rather be a free man running

than the most comfortable slave in the world.

The world's taught me we're all slaves one way or another.

That's life, Mr. Tallant.

You might as we” accept life.

Like you did with the captain.

At least I wasn't nearly drowned, and flogged,

and put to scrubbing decks.

Supposing you attend to your business,

and I'll attend to mine.

So you'll slip over the side at Rio.

Sounds simple, like stepping into the next room

till you remember there's guards to be greased,

locks to be picked, boltmen to be hired.

My way of thinking, you'd have done better

to stick with my scheme.

I might have, Nick,

if you'd have found out how to launch the boat.

Think the new plan's safer, though,

and you get your thousand pounds regardless.

Sure you can trust the outside man?

Who said there was an outside man?

There has to be.

I can trust him.

Maybe you'd like my opinion.

I promise I'd tell nobody's name, not even Tom.

Must be someone important.

Knock it. The mate's coming.

Yeah, it's the glib.

Tallant.

Yes.

You're to come with us, Captain's orders.

It's a pleasant evening.

Oh, it's you, Tallant.

Come here and stand beside Spencer.

Mr. Green, you can wait outside.

Aye, aye, sir.

I don't want to keep you from your dinner, Parson.

Perhaps you'd like to say grace.

I've already said my devotions privately.

Very well, I'll say grace for myself and Mistress Munroe.

Oh, God, give us thankfulness, and humility,

and thankfulness for your bounty and humility

before our fellow man.

Tompkins, you may serve the soup.

This is a matter of discipline.

It'll only take a moment.

Before I pass sentence on you, Tallant,

justice requires me to ask

if you have anything to say for yourself.

About what?

You're charged with plotting an escape with Spencer.

Do you admit the charge?

No, sir.

Do you recognise these keys?

Ship's keys I suppose.

And the master key to the prisoners' shackles.

I told you I meant to use them for my own purposes.

They were found on Spencer,

who I believe is deeply indebted to you

for having repaired his arm.

I have a witness who saw you treating him

not more than an hour ago.

I see no witnesses.

Be quiet, sir.

You've not only done yourself a disservice but also your fellow convicts.

Since it is possible there are others in your plot,

I shall not put in it Rio but proceed to Cape Town

where the authorities will provide me with extra guards.

This will mean shorter rations for the entire ship.

As for the witness, I shall produce him when you're brought

before Governor Philip at Botany Bay.

In the meantime, you'll both be held in solitary confinement

for the remainder of the voyage.

We're taking water below.

We're taking in water.

Oh, Mother.

Oh, Mother, Mother.

- Nat. - Mother.

I want my mother.

I'm so cold.

Keep out of the water as much as you can, Nat.

I cold, so cold.

Think there's any chance of our escaping earlier?

You know better than that, Hugh.

It'll be at least a week before we're close enough

to the coast of Africa to have any chance at all.

Mother.

We gotta get him outta here.

Perhaps his mother could reason with the captain.

Better still, somebody get word to the captain's lady.

If you have one drop compassion left

in your blood, Captain, you'll do what I ask.

If you persist in badgering me,

I shall have you in chains.

But he's only a child.

Get below, both of you.

Get below, I said.

Nat, Nat, Spencer.

Yes.

Can you see him, Spencer?

No.

Jenkins, Jenkins.

Pipe down, pipe down.

What is it?

Take a look at the boy.

Seems to be asleep.

- Put something under him. - What me?

If I was as much as to touch him,

the captain would've me hung up by my heels.

Now, this is strange.

Who gave you permission to come down here?

What do you care, long as Nick Sabb's paying ya?

Give me your keys.

He's not paying me to hand over no keys, not to nobody.

Nat, Nat, Nat.

Bring him outside, Tom, where I can take a look at him.

Nat.

Nat.

Nat.

What have they done to you, Nat?

My boy, it's your mother.

Speak to your mother.

Afraid he can't, Mrs. Garth.

No.

No.

Nat, Nat.

My son, my only son.

Gangway, gangway there, gangway.

Uncover.

"I am the resurrection and the life," said the Lord.

"He that believeth in me, though he were dead,

yet shall he live, and whosoever liveth

and believeth in me shall never die."

I know that my redeemer liveth and that he shall stand

at the latter day upon the earth,

and thereafter my skin, worms destroy this body,

yet in my flesh shall I see God,

whom I shall see for myself,

and mine eyes shall behold not another.

Thou knoweth, Lord, the secrets of our hearts.

Shut not thy merciful ears to our prayers,

but spare us, Lord most holy, oh, God most mighty,

oh, holy and merciful saviour,

our most worthy judge eternal, suffer us not

at our last hour for any pains of death to fall from thee.

And to almighty God we commend

the soul of Nat Garth departed

and commit his body to the deep.

Assurance that and hope of the resurrection

unto eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ

who's coming in glorious majesty to judge the world.

The sea shall give up her dead,

and the corruptible bodies of those

who sleep in him shall be changed

and made like unto his glorious body

according to the mighty working whereby he's able

to subdue all things unto himself.

- Dismissed, gangway. - Aye, sir.

Gangway there, gangway for the captain.

Prisoners below.

Mr. Green, the mizz

and the gallant are not braced properly.

Mr. Green.

Are you hurt, sir?

Leave me be.

Get her on her feet.

If nothing else, I shall have the pleasure

of seeing you hanged tomorrow morning.

Take her away.

Get my medicine box.

This is an awful sudden decision, Hugh.

- Would you have Mrs. - Garth hanged at the atoll?

No, but I've had no chance to bribe anyone,

save the guards below deck.

We'll handle the rest.

Where is Mrs. Garth?

She should be here now.

Inching's fetching her.

- How about the men? - They're rigging the tackles.

- The boat? - Water breaker grub

ready to go.

- Here they are now. - You ready, Mrs. Garth?

Just a minute please.

- What's the matter? - She claims nothing.

I'm all right, just...

Blood, she's been wounded.

Bad?

No, it's just a flesh wound.

Rest and care, she'll feel fine.

She'll not get either in an open boat.

- No, she won't. - But we can't leave her here.

Perhaps we can.

Nick, where were you hiding those big barrels

of rum you were selling?

Forward of the cable tier, it's all gone.

I know that.

How big a place was it?

Big enough for two of her.

That's no good.

They'll search till they find her.

No, they won't.

They'll think she went with us.

Nick can hide her until they get to Botany Bay

and then put her to shore.

I understand Governor Phillip is a very fair man.

It's our only chance, Tom.

And I'll be staying, too, and look after her.

Good luck.

Mr. Green, smoke coming from the fore peak.

You men, below to the fore peak.

- What's the matter? - Hey, what's this?

- Where's everybody going? - Yeah, where?

There must be something up, eh?

Ah, sulphur and old rags,

something odd about this.

Stuff it out, Parsons.

The rest ya, deck side, double.

No hope to get out of here?

No hope?

Hey, hey.

It's battened down.

Let's try the fore hatch.

Deck, ahoy.

On, deck, sir, on deck.

- On deck, sir. - Aye.

On deck, open up.

Unbatten.

Along way to go.

But don't you think we ought to come about now?

Look.

Gilbert's alive.

What makes you so sure?

Nobody else would've searched in this direction.

Unless someone informed on us.

I trust you enjoyed your excursion, gentlemen.

While it lasted, we did.

You wouldn't have liked the coast of Africa,

fever, hostile natives, dangerous animals.

Shouldn't there be three of you?

Mrs. Garth is dead.

Oh, how did that happen?

She drowned herself when the Charlotte came in sight.

And neither of you tried to save her?

So you could hang her?

I shall be lenient.

You chose to escape by the sea,

and you shall be punished by the sea.

Mr. Green, you'll make preparations

for keelhauling the prisoners.

Captain Gilbert, no man has been keelhauled

on an English ship for 50 years.

Oh, I don't think it's been that long.

Why don't you hang us and have done with it?

I've seen hangings but never a keelhauling.

Do your duty, Mr. Green.

Aye, aye, sir.

Get a move on.

Make sure that block's well greased.

— Bo's'n.

What is it, Reverend?

I have, of course read of keelhauling,

but I'm not quite clear as to how it's done.

Maybe it best remain that way.

Only one in 50's ever lived through it.

It's nothing really, Parson,

if you can do without breathing.

The punishment, as the name says, consists

of dragging a man down

and under the keel by means of two lines.

One's attached to his feet to drag him around

and the other to his neck

to make sure the journey's not too quick.

And how many times is he pulled across?

Generally, once is enough.

- Mr. Green. - Aye, aye, sir.

Commence punishment.

Aye, aye, sir.

Hoist away.

High enough.

Lower away.

18 on the landboard side.

All the way on the key lines.

Keep 'em taut.

Stay where you are.

They're coming up, sir.

Are they alive?

I think so, sir.

Fast heaving.

Shall I haul 'em aboard?

No, take them under the keel again to the starboard side.

Slag away.

Haul in on the starboard side.

Pay off.

Never live.

Not so fast, put a strain on those lines.

The line's twisted.

Captain Gilbert.

There seems to be some trouble, Mr. Green.

What is it?

One of the lines has bowed, sir.

Well, clear it.

Aye, aye, sir.

You've got to bring them aboard.

Are you sure you mean them?

Doesn't matter what I mean.

You've got to bring them aboard.

Clear for hauling 'em in, sir.

Haul them onto the deck.

Let's have a look at them.

This is the most barbarous proceeding I've ever witnessed.

You think so, Reverend?

Is he alive?

Mr. Green.

Their condition?

Tallant's alive, sir.

- And Spencer? - Dead, sir.

- Clear the decks. - Aye, aye, sir.

Captain Gilbert.

You now have three deaths to answer for,

Spencer, Mrs. Garth, and her son,

and no doubt there will be more,

but you may be sure, if I survive,

I shall make a full report to Governor Philip

when we reach Botany Bay.

I'm sure he'll find that most interesting.

Land, ho.

Land, ho.

Where are we?

Two points on landboard bow.

Our destination, Mr. Green.

237 days, fine passage, I shall make an entry in the log.

Let go of the starboard anchor.

- Get up forward. - Pull upside with the boat.

Stay with the boat.

Mr. Tallant.

Sentry, escort the Reverend Thynne and this woman

to the boat at the gangway at once.

Where's the other prisoner?

The other?

There was only Mr. Tallant, sir.

- Perhaps I forgot to tell you. - We've had another prisoner for some time,

a certain Mrs. Garth

whose friends elected to confine her forward of the cable tier,

a most unhealthy spot.

However, she survived.

When you take this man ashore, hand him over

to the guards in charge of the Encouragement.

Aye, aye, sir.

Come on.

Come on now.

Get ashore and take your belongings with ya.

Only too happy to oblige.

They're is harmless as foul in a barnyard.

Aye, but do they know that?

Keep walking.

Welcome to New South Wales, Captain.

Thank you.

The governor is waiting for you.

I've heard your evidence, Captain Gilbert,

and the testimony of the Reverend Thynne and the two persons

against whom you have brought these charges.

Surely, there can be no question

of their guilt, Governor Philip.

No, there is no question as to that.

And no doubt they'll hang.

There are two purposes behind transportation,

Captain Gilbert, the one to give people a chance to reform,

and the other to open up a new world.

Neither is accomplished with corpses.

Now, as to the disposition of the prisoners,

there are certain mitigating circumstances,

your natural resentment over the fate of your son

and your conviction that you have been treated unjustly.

However, the removal of the colony from Botany Bay

to this port has seriously disrupted our programme,

and I, I'm not prepared to wait upon the bickerings

that attend upon a protracted trial,

but when the case is reopened,

the mitigating circumstances will have

the fullest consideration.

Why not free them now and have done with it?

Put this man for the time being at hard labour.

Go on, up the hill.

Take it up.

What's a word from Sabb?

He's got the chart, Hugh, a copy of Captain Cook's.

Does it show the Dutch Islands?

Aye, both Java and Timor.

We can't figure out how we get there.

We'll get there. We have to swim soon.

Not hungry?

You hungry?

Saw the American this morning.

How was he?

Seems to be holding up.

- Mm. - And should be

with you smuggling him food each day.

This is probably his washing, too.

And if it is, what of that?

Well, nothing.

So why, that he'll settle down long enough

for you to halter him?

He won't the way things are now, but I have a plan.

Hmm, that's always useful if it's a good one.

It's a good one, all right.

The parson has promised me to ask Governor Philip

to make him a doctor, and when he has something useful

to do, and he feels people trust him-

Mistress Sally.

May I have a word with you?

What do you want?

You've been much in my mind of late

since I had business to show up with Governor Philip,

I thought I should satisfy myself about you.

That's very kind of you.

How do you like your new occupation?

It's not half as bad as I thought it would be.

Good, but the smoke from open fires

and the vapours from boiling soap,

not the best thing for the complexion.

By the time I leave here, my complexion won't matter.

My vessel leaves for home in a week or two.

It shall be a very pleasant voyage,

no troublesome cargo, ample quarters,

the best of food and wine,

interesting excursions ashore to Cape Town and Tenerife.

What happens when we get to England?

A word in the right quarter,

and a pardon is not beyond the realm of possibility.

I have a feeling I'm gonna like it here.

Hmm.

I'm afraid you're allowing sentiment to cloud your judgement.

Yes, that's right, I am.

The man's a thief, convicted and sentenced for life,

and destined, I'm sure, to hang someday.

He's not a thief, and he'll not hang.

We shall see.

At the suggestion of the reverend Dr. Thynne,

I've been going over your record.

I note that your medical studies in London were centred

on fever and plague.

That's right.

I'm disturbed over a second unexplained death

in the new settlement at Norfolk Island.

What is that to do with me?

If it should be fever or plague, I would like your help.

Do you trust a convict to be a doctor?

If your story is true, you're not a convict.

And even if you were,

New South Wales and I would still want your aid.

This can be a great land, given the same chances

that your own America has had,

a soil by the millions of acres waiting for the touch

of the plough, pastures bigger than all of England

waiting for sheep and cattle, harbours waiting for cities.

And with England already overpopulated,

this could easily realise the dreams of a new world.

I'd like to persuade you, if I can,

to remain here for the rest of your life.

We need men like you.

Failing that, I'd like to make a bargain with you.

What kind of a bargain?

If you'll assist our doctors until your pardon arrives,

I will drop the charges brought

against you by Captain Gilbert.

- May I think it over? - By all means.

Thank you, sir.

Somehow, I feel you've bungled things, the way you did

the night he and Spencer got free in the ship's boat.

You're positive he doesn't suspect you?

- Yes. - And equally positive

he no longer intends to escape?

I'm no perishing mind reader, but...

But?

He no longer talks about it.

Oakly's come to an understanding with Nellie Garth,

and Tallant's near one with Mistress Munroe

if I'm any judge.

He's taken to his medical work like a duck to water.

No escape, I should have to do something

about that when I return from Norfolk Island.

Norfolk Island?

Isn't there supposed to be plague there?

Nonsense, two deaths from malnutrition.

I have the glimmering of an idea, Sabb, a very neat idea

that will finish him no matter what he does.

Make certain no one sees you as you go ashore.

Not the easiest thing for a man of my girth.

Stand there.

Tallant, Captain Gilbert has come here by boat

from Botany Bay to discuss his, uh, charges against you.

During my stay at Norfolk Island and yesterday

at Botany Bay, I had the opportunity to review

my admiralty law, especially those parts

concerning mutiny and insurrection upon the high seas.

I found it is my duty to present the facts

before the correct authority,

which in this case appears to be in London.

It is also my duty to present the defendant

at the same time.

You mean to take me back to England?

I have no choice in the matter.

The Charlotte sails in three days.

I'm afraid there's nothing I can do, Tallant.

Why do you tell me this now?

I felt it was only fair to give you the opportunity

to prepare for your voyage

and make such farewells as you care to.

Good day, sir.

Even if I survive the voyage, which I won't,

I'll be hanged when I get to England.

You have no choice but to escape.

What I wouldn't give for a chance at Gilbert's gullet.

You're not in this, Tom.

Do you think I'd desert you now?

Count me in, too, whenever you're ready to go.

And me.

We'll need supplies and ammunition.

Too bad we can't make use of Gilbert's hunting.

Hunting, where?

Stillwater Cove.

He's taking the ship boat with a couple of men.

He's gonna camp there while the Charlotte's at Botany Bay.

Where's Stillwater Cove?

About 10 miles short of there.

That's it, Gilbert, and escape in one bundle.

That don't sound half bad.

Ammunition, supplies, and a good, stout boat,

we're practically in Java already.

And we can use Gilbert's hide for a sail.

What is it, Parson?

I've been given permission

to speak to you, Hugh, over here.

Sally.

I'll wait, Sally.

Mrs. Garth just told me what you're going to do.

You must be out of your mind.

You'll all be caught and hanged.

How long do you think

Gilbert would let me live on the Charlotte?

Well, couldn't you just hide in the back country till he's gone?

Ship back to England on the next boat?

The parson's sure he can persuade.

Governor Phillip into sheltering you.

Philip wouldn't dare.

Even if he did, I'm tired of being a convict.

What about the others?

Do you care about them?

No, I suppose you don't.

You're blind to everyone but yourself,

blind to what you've already done

to Mr. Spencer and the Garth boy,

blind to what you're doing to Nellie and to Tom Oakly,

to me.

Sorry.

Sure about the sentry?

Sure as I am there's beer in England.

All clear.

Did you see the black man back there?

There's been a dozen or so following us for the past hour.

Well, what's to be done?

If they're anything like the Indians at home, if we...

don't bother them, they won't bother us.

Come on.

Here, did you hear something?

No.

Stay where you are.

Inching, can take that musket.

Where's Gilbert?

He's in the tent.

Keep 'em covered.

Ah, Mr. Tallant.

Get out of there.

Welcome to Stillwater Cove.

I don't think we'd be so welcome, Captain,

if you knew what we intended.

Oh, but I do.

You intend to steal my boats and such provisions

as we have here and then proceed to Java,

having presumably wreaked some sort

of vengeance upon my person.

You seem pretty sure of our plans.

I am, and also of mine.

Now, if you'll be good enough to look behind you.

Down with those muskets.

Down with them, I said.

Line them up by the boat and put them in irons.

Very well, sir.

All right, line 'em up over there.

I was afraid I might have to wait some time

before seeing you hanged, gentlemen, but now.

- Sabb. - Yes, sir?

Put this is my tent. Fetch my pistol.

Yes, Captain, that I will.

Your unsavoury friend has been most useful to me.

Without his loyalty and resourcefulness,

this scheme would never have evolved.

Fetter them securely, Sergeant.

The Charlotte won't be here until sometime tomorrow.

Aye, aye, sir.

I suppose you realise, Tallant,

I never had the slightest intention

of taking you back to London.

I do now.

As long as I'm gonna hang...

Your pistol, sir.

I'm not gonna kill you now,

'cause that would deprive me of the very great pleasure

of watching Mistress Sally's face

when you dance at the rope's end.

Sir, there are some natives watching

from the brush over there.

It looks as if they mean to attack.

A shot or two will discourage that.

- Discharge a few rounds at them. - Very well, sir.

Better leave them alone if you don't want trouble.

Nonsense, take cover.

Fire at will.

There are some more over there.

Don't let them get into the clearing.

I can't see them, sir.

Shoot higher.

- I say. - Reload as fast as you can.

Tread carefully.

Pull it out.

Do no good.

Blasted, you pull it out.

You'll bleed to death.

You're lying.

Perhaps I shan't see you hang after all.

Too exposed, should get behind the ridge.

All right, controlled volleys.

Take Aim.

Fire.

Load.

I'll load for ya.

Take aim.

Fire.

Aim.

Fire.

Aim.

Fire.

Not a sign of them anymore.

We got them.

And we've got you.

Now, your arm's good as new.

What do you intend to do now?

- Take the boat. - I meant about us.

You can send one of your men back to the settlement for help.

I found Sabb, Hugh, what was left of him

after the black men got through.

Four dead, two wounded.

Three wounded, I've got a scratch on my arm.

Take off your shirt, and I'll have a look at it.

Tom, load the boat.

All right.

Sit down.

All right, you men, lend a hand here.

Get that gear into the boat.

It's deep, but the bone's unhurt.

Couple of weeks, you'll never know.

How long have you had that lump on the arm?

Mm, two or three days, I think.

Headaches and chills?

Yes, yes, how did you know?

Anybody else got any swelling like that?

Uh, yes, uh, Malfi over there for one

and one or two others aboard ship.

Who's Malfi?

- That'd be me. - Hugh, Hugh.

The Charlotte coming into shore.

We'll never get away in the boat now.

We'll have to head inland.

No, we're heading back for the settlement.

Hugh, that don't make sense.

It will if we get that before the Charlotte does.

- Governor Philip. - What is it?

Three of the escaped prisoners, sir.

They were caught just outside the colony.

Tallant, there'll be no possible explanation.

Punish us any way you want, Governor.

But first, make sure that nobody lands

from the Charlotte when it arrives.

And why should I do that?

There's plague on board.

- Are you certain of this? - Yes, sir.

See that the ship is quarantined on arrival.

Very good, sir.

Pettis here is our last case, Doctor.

When was he taken?

- Nine days ago. - Hmm, and none since then?

None and no fever.

You performed wonders.

The governor will be delighted.

Then you take my word for that it's over?

Even if I didn't, I can hardly refuse

to believe the evidence of my own eyes.

You may hold on the quarantine, Pendleton.

Aye, aye, sir.

Sally, someone wants to see ya

on the knoll back at camp.

Go on, lass.

Sally.

What are you doing here?

Waiting for you.

Is it true the governor's dropped all charges against you?

Against all of us.

He's offered to let me go back to England to get my pardon.

When will you be sailing?

I won't.