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SWEET FREEDOM
(Based on a True Story)
Screenplay by
Jack Stone
FADE IN:
Garyville, Louisiana.
1858.
EXT. EMILY WILLIS' ESTATE - DAY
A beautiful and stately southern mansion sits in the midst of
endless rows of what had once been considered prize cotton
fields.
A closer look at the mansion reveals signs of dilapidation.
There are rotting facia wood and peeling paint, a gazebo that
had once been beautiful, now sits warped from the humid
climate.
What had been the field workers and house servants, slaves
are now MEN and WOMEN being loaded onto an old wagon to be
sold once again at the action block.
These weary field workers and house servants show signs of
fear and concern. What had been their home for years is
about to become a memory.
Weeping mothers hold their CHILDREN close to their bosoms,
wondering if this will be the last time they'll ever see
their children again.
Men with strong backs and broken spirits sit in silence,
their heads bowed.
A thin, almost emaciated TASKMASTER (45), checks the human
cargo. He's satisfied with his count.
TASKMASTER
Move it out.
The WAGON DRIVER (65), cracks his whip.
WAGON
Yaaa! Move along.
The wagon slowly moves forward.
INT. EMILY WILLIS' BEDROOM - DAY
The curtains to the windows are all drawn. A darkness is
cast upon the room.
The bedroom is adorned in gorgeous, bright white wicker
furnishings. There are pictures of family members, nephews
and nieces on a bedstand. There is also a large decorative
bible.
An elderly and frail woman with silvery white hair, MISS
EMILY WILLIS (72), is lying in her death bed. She barely has
the strength to speak.
Miss Willis wears a splendid silver necklace. Dangling from
the necklace is an ivory cross. This cross is a testament to
the woman's faith in Jesus Christ and the resurrection to
come.
A strong woman who is softly crying and trying to hold back
her tears sits at Emily's side. AUNT MARTHY (62), is the
stout and faithful servant of Emily Willis.
Aunt Marthy is holding Miss Willis' hand.
AUNT MARTHY
Just let it go. You're going to be fine.
Aunt Marthy fluffs the pillow in an attempt to try and make
Miss Willis more comfortable.
Also present at Miss Willis' side is Aunt Marthy's beautiful
mulatto granddaughter, CHARLOTTE (19), she too is the
property of Miss Willis.
Miss Willis feigns a smile to try and cover her pain. She's
not long for this world.
MISS WILLIS
You are the best friend anyone could have
ever asked for in this life. Why, I
wouldn't mind serving you all my days in
the life to come. Thank you for always
being there for me.
AUNT MARTHY
You'll be just fine Miss Emily. You just
need to rest for a while.
MISS WILLIS
No, I'm just an old woman and my time has
come. Time for me to fade away. Would
you sing me that song Martha? You know,
the one that you always sang to me
whenever I was feeling low. Why the
name, it slips my mind presently. I just
remember it goes something like,
(slightly singing)
it will always be howdy howdy and never
good-bye.
(returning to conversation)
Oh, you know the one I mean. Would you
mind singing it to me just one last time?
Teary eyed Aunt Marthy begins to sing a slow and moving
rendition of, Move On Up A Little Higher.
Miss Willis' grip loosens and her hand falls to her side.
Her eyes close.
Miss Willis passes away peacefully.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GARYVILLE LOUISIANA/LARSON'S CEMETERY - DAY
A cold and cloudy day. The leaden sky drizzles a soft rain.
Miss Emily Willis' funeral is taking place.
Several black umbrellas are opened to protect those that are
present at the funeral from the rain.
A protestant preacher, REVEREND DALY (40), is giving a sermon
as the family and friends of Miss Willis stand with heads
bowed.
REVEREND DALY
We know how Miss Willis has touched all
of our lives and she will surely be
missed by us all.
Aunt Marthy and Charlotte stand at the back of the wealthy
and highbrowed, well dressed mourners.
REVEREND DALY (CONT'D)
But, Miss Willis will mostly be
remembered by this community for her
unselfish commitment to the education of
our children and for building our
communities school house.
DR. JAMES NORTH (58), and his wife, ETTIE WILLIS (50) are
present at the funeral. Dr. North is a bearded man with a
mild limp. He carries a cane with him wherever he goes.
REVEREND DALY (CONT'D)
Miss Willis' work is now done and I
believe that when she stands before the
Lord he shall say, well done thy good and
faithful servant. Yes, Miss Willis will
rest in the everlasting arms of the Lord.
The Lord she so faithfully trusted and
served. Let us not soon forget the
fervor in her commitment and dedication
to our town of Garyville, in the great
state of Louisiana.
Ettie is the younger sister of Emily. She's more concerned
with the rain ruining her expensive outfit, than she ever was
about her sisters ailing condition.
Reverend Daly gestures for the PALLBEARERS to lower the
casket. The casket is lowered into the ground.
REVEREND DALY (CONT'D)
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Amen.
Dr. North drops a bundle of flowers on the black coffin.
REVEREND DALY (CONT'D)
May God be with each and everyone of you
as you go your way this afternoon.
The funeral has ended and the people are saying their
farewells. The pallbearers shovel dirt onto the casket.
Dr. North eyes locate Aunt Marthy as he departs. His eyes
especially linger on Charlotte. This does not go unnoticed
by his wife.
TILLY NORTH (67), Dr. North's wealthy older sister, who is
the rebellious, black sheep of the family, finishes rolling
and lights a hand rolled cigarette.
Tilly makes her way to Aunt Marthy.
TILLY
How have you been Martha?
AUNT MARTHY
I'm fine Miss Tilly.
(to Charlotte)
Say hello to Miss Tilly, Charlotte.
CHARLOTTE
Hello, Miss Tilly. It's good to see you
again.
AUNT MARTHY
How are you doing Miss Tilly?
TILLY
Well, It'll be a whole lot better once
things get back to normal around here.
How are you taking this Martha?
AUNT MARTHY
Day by day. It's going to be awful hard
adjusting to life without my Emily.
TILLY
Bless you Martha, you served her
faithfully for so many years. I know you
were very dear to her.
AUNT MARTHY
Emily was good to me. She was like an
older sister to me. I'll miss her more
than anyone will ever know.
Tilly takes Aunt Marthy's hand.
TILLY
I sure hope you will still come by and
bring me some of your wonderful baking
now and again. You're the best cook this
side of the Mississippi.
AUNT MARTHY
I'll be sure to come by often Miss Tilly.
Whenever you need a gown mended or
anything at all, don't hesitate to look
me up.
(to Charlotte)
Come now Charlotte, we must be pushing
on.
CHARLOTTE
It was nice to see you again Miss Tilly.
AUNT MARTHY
Good day Miss Tilly.
TILLY
Good day Martha.
Charlotte and Aunt Marthy walk past the North's and as they
do Dr. North gives Aunt Marthy a stern, perhaps baleful look.
This look does not go unnoticed by Tilly.
INT. HENRY LAW OFFICE - DAY
A stuffed shirt and dishonest attorney, MR. HENRY (45), is
reading the will of Miss Willis.
Dr. North and his wife Ettie are present. Emily Willis'
younger sister, Ettie is dressed impeccably.
Tilly North and Reverend Daly are also present for the
reading.
MR. HENRY
It is also instructed that Miss Willis'
home is to be sold and the proceeds of
that sale is to be given to the First
Baptist Church of Garyville, for the
purpose of finishing the construction of
the new church.
Reverend Daly is surprised by Miss Willis' generosity.
REVEREND DALY
There never was a more generous woman
than the late sister Willis.
Dr. North is filled with impudence from Reverend Daly's
words.
It's apparent in the countenance of Tilly that she and her
brother, Dr. North are adversaries.
Tilly's amused as the will is read, wanting and needing
nothing of the dead woman's property and equally glad to hear
that her greedy brother did not obtain the woman's home.
MR. HENRY
Tilly, Miss Willis has given you the old
Smith cottage. She thought that you
could make use of the land.
TILLY
That's very generous or her. But, I have
no need for it. I believe I'll donate
the land to a deserving cause.
DR. NORTH
I'm touched to hear that.
TILLY
I knew you would be.
MR. HENRY
Furthermore, Charlotte Clemmins, Emily's
servant girl is to become the property of
James and Ettie North's daughter Celia.
(to Ettie)
Although Celia is only five years old,
Emily felt that Charlotte one day would
make a fine house servant for your
daughter.
ETTIE
That's very kind.
MR. HENRY
Finally, Martha Clemmins, who was at
Emily's side throughout her entire life,
is to be emancipated today, immediately
following the reading of this will. And
that about does it. are there any
questions?
No one has anything to say.
MR. HENRY (CONT'D)
This concludes the reading of the will of
Miss Emily Willis.
Mr. Henry hands Dr. North the deed and ownership papers of
Charlotte Clemmins.
MR. HENRY (CONT'D)
Dr. North it is instructed by Miss Emily
Willis, and I am duly appointed by her to
give you the legal rights and ownership
of the servant girl Charlotte Clemmins.
That is of course until Celia becomes of
age, then the ownership of Charlotte is
to be rightfully transferred to your
daughter.
Dr. North takes his wife, Ettie by the hand. She begins to
sob crocodile tears.
ETTIE
I shall miss my dear sister so.
DR. NORTH
(in a false consoling manner to
Ettie)
There, there my dear. Everything will be
alright.
(to Mr. Henry)
My wife is grieving at the loss of her
beloved sister, perhaps it's time for us
to go.
MR. HENRY
Yes, I agree.
They stand to end the reading of the will. Dr. North and Mr.
Henry shake hands. Tilly and Reverend Daly exit the office.
MR. HENRY (CONT'D)
Be sure to stop by and bring some of that
fresh cut sugarcane for my boys.
(taking Mr. North aside)
And don't forget our little arrangement.
DR. NORTH
Be seeing you soon Mr. Henry.
Dr. North tips his hat and exits the office with his wife.
EXT. HENRY LAW OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
Tilly rides off in her horse and carriage.
Dr. North speaks to one of his coach servants, EDWARD (55).
DR. NORTH
Edward, take my wife home.
EDWARD
Yes, sir. Right away, sir.
ETTIE
Where are you going?
DR. NORTH
I have a pressing engagement that I must
attend to.
ETTIE
We were to take our daughter to lunch
this afternoon. Were we not?
DR. NORTH
Yes, of course. Tell Celia daddies sorry
he couldn't make it.
ETTIE
I'm certain that you are.
Angrily, Mrs. North enters the buggy and it rides off.
INT. EMILY WILLIS' ESTATE - DAY
Most of the Willis estate furnishings are covered in white
cloth.
Charlotte and Aunt Marthy are covering what's left to be
covered.
CHARLOTTE
It's odd being in this home, just the two
of us. It seems only yesterday that this
house was bustling with parties and fancy
guests.
AUNT MARTHY
Yes, there were some good times in this
old home.
CHARLOTTE
Now look at it, it's just a silent old
ghost with no one to look after it. It's
sad.
AUNT MARTHY
Yes, it is sad to say good-bye.
CHARLOTTE
I'm afraid. I'm afraid of what will
become of us?
AUNT MARTHY
If the Lord wills, we'll be set free.
But, if he sees fit to keep us in
bondage.
She looks up to the sky.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Lord, your will.
CHARLOTTE
Miss Willis was good woman. She taught
me to read and write and for this I'm
very thankful. I always thought of her
as a mother figure. I still remember
when I found out that she owned me. I
was surprised. She never made me feel
like I was. I never thought of us as her
property.
Aunt Marthy begins to fix Charlottes hair.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
She always told me that in her eyes there
was no difference between the children
she taught at the school and myself. She
said she would have liked it if I
could've attended her classroom, but she
said the town folk wouldn't have it.
AUNT MARTHY
She clothed you well and treated you as
her own daughter. You never hungered and
never wanted for anything.
CHARLOTTE
Oh, Aunt Marthy, I'm afraid. Where will
we go. What will happen to us now?
AUNT MARTHY
I don't know. I'm afraid too.
Charlotte throws her arms around Aunt Marthy and holds her
tight.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Charlotte, I have something for you.
It's from Miss Willis herself.
Aunt Marthy pulls Miss Willis' silver necklace from her
pocket and hands it to Charlotte.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Miss Willis made me promise to give it to
you. She wanted you to have it.
CHARLOTTE
Miss Emily knew that I admired it so.
Aunt Marthy helps Charlotte put the necklace on.
Charlotte looks into a large mirror that is hanging on a
wall.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
It's beautiful isn't it?
AUNT MARTHY
Yes, it is.
CHARLOTTE
Why, I never had anything this beautiful
before. Never.
AUNT MARTHY
Charlotte, we need to discuss something
important.
CHARLOTTE
Yes?
AUNT MARTHY
If Miss Willis sees fit to give us to
another family, remember not to let your
new master know you can read and write.
CHARLOTTE
Why? You make it sound like it's a
terrible crime.
AUNT MARTHY
In these parts it is a crime. Black
folks aren't supposed to know how to read
and write.
CHARLOTTE
What harm would reading a book or writing
a letter cause anyone?
AUNT MARTHY
Just do as you're told. You can cause
yourself much grief. Now promise me.
CHARLOTTE
I promise Aunt Marthy. I'll not tell a
soul.
EXT. EMILY WILLIS' HOME - DAY
Dr. North's horse and buggy arrive at the Willis estate.
INT. EMILY WILLIS' HOME - DAY
Aunt Marthy and Charlotte notice Dr. North as he arrives.
They appear nervous.
CHARLOTTE
Who is it?
AUNT MARTHY
It's Dr. North.
CHARLOTTE
It's the devil himself. I hate that man.
AUNT MARTHY
Don't say such things.
CHARLOTTE
Well I do.
AUNT MARTHY
Just keep it to yourself. I'll get the
door. You just remember what I told you.
CHARLOTTE
Yes, Aunt Marthy.
AUNT MARTHY
And for goodness sake keep quiet. Let me
do the talking.
EXT. EMILY WILLIS' HOME - DAY
Dr. North approaches the door and rings the doorbell.
INT. EMILY WILLIS' HOME - DAY
Aunt Marthy goes to the door and opens it.
AUNT MARTHY
Won't you come in Dr. North?
Dr. North enters the residence. His cold eyes meet
Charlottes.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Can I take your hat sir?
DR. NORTH
No need, we won't be staying long.
(to Charlotte)
My dear child, turn around and let me get
a good look at you. My, my for you have
grown to be a very attractive young
woman.
Charlotte looks to Aunt Marthy. Aunt Marthy nods a
confirmation for Charlotte to do as she's told.
Charlotte ashamed, obliges looking over at Aunt Marthy.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
Why, I haven't seen you since you were
just a pup.
CHARLOTTE
You saw me this afternoon.
AUNT MARTHY
Charlotte. You're not to speak unless
you're spoken to.
CHARLOTTE
You were speaking to me weren't you, Dr.
North?
DR. NORTH
Oh, and she's a feisty one too. We're
running late on time so hurry along, both
of you gather your belongings. You
belong to me now.
AUNT MARTHY
Is this true Dr. North? We're to go with
you?
DR. NORTH
Yes, and you too Aunt Marthy. You're to
come with me as well.
AUNT MARTHY
Do as Dr. North says, Charlotte. Go and
collect our things.
Charlotte exits to gather their belongings.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Hurry now child. We don't want to keep
Dr. North waiting.
As Charlotte leaves the room Dr. North continues.
DR. NORTH
(coldly)
Now Aunt Marthy I must apologize, I
really don't have a place for you at my
home and the work at my plantation is
back breaking for someone of your age.
So I made arrangements to take you to the
block myself. We'll be sure to locate
you a good home.
AUNT MARTHY
Yes Sir, Dr. North. Oh, I'm sure you
will. With good intention.
Charlotte returns to the room with their belongings.
Charlotte is also carrying a few beautiful dresses that are
draped across her arm.
DR. NORTH
Those are very lovely Charlotte.
Dr. North takes the dresses from Charlotte and places them on
the entrance table
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
But, I'm afraid you won't be needing any
of these fancy dresses.
My wife has strict rules about our
servants attire. One mustn't have more
than the others. Why, it just wouldn't
sit right. I'm sure you understand?
Aunt Marthy looks heavyhearted at Charlotte. She knows that
soon they'll be separated.
CHARLOTTE
I made those dresses myself.
DR. NORTH
And you're a wonderful seamstress, but
I'm sorry.
She picks one of her dresses up.
CHARLOTTE
And Miss Emily bought this one for me
herself.
DR. NORTH
Rules are rules young lady. You wouldn't
want to start off on the wrong foot with
Mrs. North now would you?
CHARLOTTE
No, sir. We wouldn't want that.
DR. NORTH
Good. Then we shall be on our way.
EXT. EMILY WILLIS' ESTATE - DAY
Charlotte, Aunt Marthy and Dr. North exit the front door and
walk towards North's buggy where Edward is waiting.
Charlotte stops to look back at their former home.
CHARLOTTE
I guess it's good-bye.
Aunt Marthy's eyes are filled with tears.
AUNT MARTHY
Oh, Charlotte.
DR. NORTH
Aunt Marthy, you ride with Edward up top.
Charlotte, I want you in the coach with
me. There's much we need to discuss.
Edward steadies Aunt Marthy as she struggles to get onto the
coach.
Aunt Marthy takes one last look at her former home.
EDWARD
Git.
The coach surges forward as it pulls away.
The home begins to diminish in the distance. Aunt Marthy
wipes the tears from her eyes, but they continue to fall.
INT. NORTH'S COACH - LATER SAME DAY
The coach rides along a stretch of country road.
Dr. North begins to make his intentions perfectly clear.
DR. NORTH
Charlotte, has anyone ever told you that
you're a very beautiful young woman?
Charlotte ignores Dr. North as she watches the countryside as
it passes by.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
Let me clue you in, you can make things
quite a bit easier for yourself around my
estate.
CHARLOTTE
What do you mean?
DR. NORTH
I'm sure you understand what I'm trying
to say?
North mockingly begins to speak like a preacher.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
Servants, obey in all things your masters
according to the flesh; not in eye
service, nor as men pleasers; but in
singleness of heart, fearing God.
(haughty)
The book of Colossians, chapter three,
verse twenty two.
(rather evil)
Obey your master in all things. Thus
saith the scriptures.
Dr. North reaches over and attempts to lift Charlotte's skirt
with his cane. Charlotte smacks the cane away.
CHARLOTTE
Please sir, don't be doing that.
DR. NORTH
You are a feisty one at that.
CHARLOTTE
I don't know what you mean by that.
DR. NORTH
(interrupting)
Be of sound mind. Don't you worry your
pretty little head. There will be plenty
of time to make our acquaintance. It's
going to be quite agreeable having you
around my home Charlotte. Yes, agreeable
indeed.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - DAY
Horse and buggy arrive at North's beautiful stately southern
manor.
Edward pulls the reigns and the buggy comes to a halt. He
climbs down and opens the coach door for Dr. North.
North exits the buggy so does Charlotte. She looks at her
new home.
DR. NORTH
Edward, bring down Charlotte's bag.
Hurry boy, we don't have all day.
Edward begins to remove Charlotte's bag.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
(to Aunt Marthy)
We have a long travel ahead of us,
daylights burning. So say your fair
thee wells and be quick about it.
CHARLOTTE
What are you saying?
Charlotte notices that Aunt Marthy has been crying.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
What's wrong?
Aunt Marthy climbs down to say farewell to Charlotte.
AUNT MARTHY
I won't be staying here with you.
CHARLOTTE
What do you mean?
(to Dr. North)
Where are you taking Aunt Marthy?
Dr. North doesn't answer.
AUNT MARTHY
My dear child, we'll meet again someday.
I just know that we will.
CHARLOTTE
What are you saying? I can't live
without you. How shall I? I'll just
die.
AUNT MARTHY
Pull yourself together, you have got to
be strong. This is going to be the most
difficult trial of your life.
CHARLOTTE
Where will you go?
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE/FRONT PORCH - CONTINUOUS
Ettie North steps out on the porch steps.
ETTIE
What is all this commotion out here?
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - CONTINUOUS
DR. NORTH
(to Charlotte)
Run along now to Mrs. North she's been
expecting you.
CHARLOTTE
(to Aunt Marthy)
I don't understand.
(to Dr. North)
Why are you doing this? Why?
AUNT MARTHY
(to Charlotte)
Some things just can't be explained.
Some things, they just have to be. I
believe in the will of the Lord. He has
a plan for you Charlotte. Be a good
servant to the North's. And God will
bless you.
Aunt Marthy wipes Charlotte's tears from her eyes, and climbs
up on the coach.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
We may be separated, but we'll always be
together.
DR. NORTH
Lets go, we have to be moving along.
Edward switches at the horses.
EDWARD
Git on.
The coach pulls away, kicking up some dust.
Charlotte weeps terribly as she runs along the coach.
CHARLOTTE
I love you Aunt Marthy. I love you.
AUNT MARTHY
I'll always love you my sweet child. You
will always be in my prayers and in my
heart.
Teary eyed, Aunt Marthy waves good-bye.
Charlotte watches as the coach disappears from sight. She
falls to the ground weeping terribly.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE/FRONT PORCH - CONTINUOUS
CELIA, a cute little curly haired girl, not unlike Shirley
Temple, is at her mother's side.
Ettie calls for Charlotte from the front porch of the estate.
She's unsympathetic of Charlotte's situation.
ETTIE
Charlotte, come up here at once and let
me have a look at you. Hurry now, come
along. We don't have all day.
Charlotte gathers her bag and walks to the porch steps.
ETTIE (CONT'D)
What on earth is all this fuss about?
You're needed in the kitchen. We have
dinner guests tonight. But, first we
must properly clothe you and instruct you
of your duties.
Ettie and Charlotte enter the home.
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte can't control her weeping.
ETTIE
That's enough of that. Oh, here.
Ettie hands Charlotte a handkerchief.
ETTIE (CONT'D)
What are we going to do with you? You'll
have to calm down.
CHARLOTTE
I'm sorry Ma'am.
ETTIE
(shouting out)
Elizabeth! Elizabeth, where are you?
ELIZABETH (50), a plump, lovable, middle aged house servant
shouts from the kitchen.
ELIZABETH (VO)
I'm coming Miss North.
Elizabeth rushes enters the room. An apparent scar on her
face runs from her right eye and across her cheek bone.
ETTIE
(to Elizabeth)
Elizabeth, take Charlotte to her room and
have her change into the proper attire.
ELIZABETH
Yes Ma'am.
ETTIE
(to Charlotte)
We're very strict about the proper attire
of our servants.
ETTIE (CONT'D)
Well, run along now, times a waistin'.
ELIZABETH
Yes Ma'am. Come along Charlotte.
As Elizabeth and Charlotte exit the room, Elizabeth's
demeanor changes to strong and intelligent. She confides in
Charlotte.
ELIZABETH (CONT'D)
Now girl you be sure to obey Miss North
at all times. She's a tyrant.
CHARLOTTE
(still sobbing)
What do you mean?
ELIZABETH
Miss North demands her respect. You'll
do well to remember this. And as for Dr.
North, I know he'll take to fancying you.
CHARLOTTE
He's already tried to make a pass at me
in the carriage.
ELIZABETH
Stay clear of that man. There are enough
of his children already down on the
plantation.
Charlotte is led to a small room, sparse in furnishings.
ELIZABETH (CONT'D)
This will be your room for now.
INT. CHARLOTTE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
They enter.
ELIZABETH
You'll be sharing this room with me. Not
to worry, I never sleep here. Not in
going on twelve years now. Mrs. North,
she needs me almost every night to fetch
her water and bring her, her pills.
Therefore, I sleep outside of her bedroom
door so when she calls for me, I can tend
to her needs immediately. She doesn't
like to be kept waiting.
(distant)
She beat me horrible one night. I was
awful sick, burning up with fever. I
didn't make it to her room fast enough I
guess. She was enraged.
She touches the dreadful scar that runs across her face.
ELIZABETH (CONT'D)
I never made that mistake again.
(she smiles to Charlotte)
Come now hurry, the kitchen is down the
hall. As soon as you dress, I'll see you
there. Have you eaten today?
CHARLOTTE
I couldn't eat a thing.
ELIZABETH
Well, you hurry now,
(mocking Ettie)
times a waistin'.
Elizabeth exits.
Charlotte feigns a smile and begins to change her clothing.
EXT. ROADSIDE - DAY
Slave TRADERS bully chained SLAVES toward an auction house.
Some of them have an obvious pale complexion, having been
conceived by their masters.
Dr. North's coach passes the chained men.
AUNT MARTHY
When will it end?
EDWARD
It's gonna take an act of congress, I
reckon.
AUNT MARTHY
It's gonna take an act of God. You know,
the Jews of Israel were slaves to the
Egyptians for four hundred years.
Finally, their prayers were heard. Our
prayers will be answered too someday. Our
day to shine will come.
EDWARD
The Lord don't never seem to answer
prayers when you want him to, but he's
always right on time.
AUNT MARTHY
Amen to that.
The coach continues on.
EXT. AUCTION HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
The coach arrives at the auction house.
Several lines of shackled men are being led by slave traders.
Rows of men are being examined and inspected like horses.
Dr. North exits the buggy and stretches his bad leg. A young
and grubby looking white boy runs past the coach.
DR. NORTH
(to the boy)
Hey you boy!
The boy stops running.
BOY
You calling for me sir?
DR. NORTH
Yes, I am. Do you know who Drew Parson
is?
BOY
Yes, sir I do.
DR. NORTH
Fetch him for me.
Dr. North throws the boy a coin.
BOY
Yes, sir. I sure will.
The young boy runs off to locate Mr. Parson for Dr. North.
BOY (CONT'D)
(shouting)
Mr. Parson, there's a man here to see
you. Mr. Parson! Oh, Mr. Parson!
Dr. North addresses Aunt Marthy as she climbs down from the
coach.
DR. NORTH
Now Aunt Marthy, you'll be staying here
till the morrow.
(coldly)
And don't you worry none, they've all the
comforts of home you've grown accustomed
to.
DREW PARSON (45), the towns auctioneer appears from the
confines of the trade post and approaches Dr. North.
DREW PARSON
You must be Dr. North?
DR. NORTH
Yes, that would be me.
DREW PARSON
Mr. Henry told me I should be expecting
you. Do you have the documents.
Dr. North hands Drew Parson the falsified document of
ownership of Aunt Marthy. Parson inspects it.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
This should do fine. Thank you.
DR. NORTH
Much obliged I'm sure.
They shake hands.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
(to Aunt Marthy)
Come on down Aunty, let Mr. Parson get a
good look at you.
Aunt Marthy steps down from the coach.
DREW PARSON
(referring to Aunt Marthy)
Is this the woman?
DR. NORTH
Yes, it is. This is Aunty Marthy. She's
a fine old gal. A cook, a seamstress and
above average intelligence. She's going
to make a good house servant for
somebody.
DREW PARSON
Shall we talk privately?
They step away from the coach.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
She's a bit older than I expected,
couldn't get more than two fifty, maybe
three hundred tops.
DR. NORTH
Fine, just get rid of her.
DREW PARSON
It's just that their aren't too many
buyers looking for women who's seen
better days.
DR. NORTH
Mr. Parson, I'm one of the largest
plantation owners in all of Louisiana.
I've spent many a day trading on the
block.
DREW PARSON
I understand.
Parson calls out to Aunt Marthy.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Come along with me Aunty.
Dr. North tips his hat.
DR. NORTH
Good day, sir.
DREW PARSON
(to North)
See you in the morning.
(to Aunt Marthy)
This way.
Aunt Marthy's led away by Parson.
INT. SLAVE HOLDING CELLS - DAY
The visual sight is alarming. There is no privacy.
Although men and women are placed in separate cells. There
is no privacy. There are MEN either naked or partially
clothed in the adjoining cells. Fear and shame is evident in
everyone of their faces.
Aunt Marthy is led to a cell of about TWENTY WOMEN, who are
all dirty and hungry. Some of the women are with CHILDREN
and the women are crying because they know they will soon
lose their children forever. Some of the children cry from
hunger.
The cell is unlocked by Drew Parson.
DREW PARSON
(to Aunt Marthy)
You get on in there.
Aunt Marthy steps into the cell and the door is locked behind
her. Drew Parson exits.
Aunt Marthy looks about her. Most noise has ceased, (except
for the crying) everybody is staring at her.
Because Aunt Marthy is wearing a spotless, new white dress,
which is evidently in contrast to the drab and filthy
surroundings.
Many of the faces are familiar ones to Aunt Marthy, they had
been taken from the plantation earlier.
Aunt Marthy steps over to one of the WOMEN who is cradling
her CHILD.
AUNT MARTHY
I wish there was something that I could
say to console you sister. Words just
fail me now.
WOMAN
I never expected to see you hear.
Suddenly, the sound of a screaming man breaks the silence.
A younger BLACK MAN has been captured escaping and is dragged
across the outer cell floor by SEVERAL WHITE MEN.
WHITE MAN
This'll teach you fer tryin' to run out
on me.
WHITE MAN II
You oughta know'd better then that.
WHITE MAN
String him up good boys.
Struggling terribly with the white men, the young black man
is drug to a whipping post and finally strung up.
The white man pulls out a whip and prepares himself to give
this young man a beating.
YOUNG BLACK MAN
Please sir, I won't do it again. I won't
atall.
WHITE MAN
You got that right.
The young man's whipped furiously. He screams aloud in pain.
Aunt Marthy cannot watch the beating, she covers her ears.
The young man's screams fill the air. The cracking of the
bullwhip tears into his flesh.
Drew Parson returns to the holding block in a hurry.
DREW PARSON
Stop it!
WHITE MAN
He tried to escape. I warned him once
before what would happen if he did it
again.
The white man tries to land another blow with the bullwhip
Parson yanks the whip from the man.
DREW PARSON
(to the white man)
What the hell do you think you're doing?
(to the other men)
Take him down.
The other white men begin to take him down.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Look at his back.
The young man's back is covered in stripes from the whipping.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Just look at what you gone and done did.
WHITE MAN
I guess I wasn't thinking Ôbout that.
DREW PARSON
That's always your problem, you're never
thinking straight. You probably cost me
several hundred dollars here. It's hard
to sell one of Ôem off if the purchaser
deems Ôem a flight risk. And those
stripes are tell tail signs.
(to the white man that whipped
the young boy)
Now you get out of here and don't show
your face around here again.
The white man races out of the holding block.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
(to the other men)
And the same will happen to you if you
don't follow my orders.
Parson throws down the whip.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Now, you get this boy cleaned up.
The other white men pick up the young black man and take him
to a cell.
Drew Parson storms off.
Aunt Marthy goes to a small window that is in her holding
cell and looks out.
She watches as Dr. North's coach drives off in the distance.
The sun begins to set on the horizon.
AUNT MARTHY
God have mercy on my Charlotte.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE/DINING ROOM - NIGHT
The North's and their guests MR. JONES' and his WIFE, who are
business acquaintances of Dr. North sit at a long formal
dining table.
Elizabeth is busy cleaning up the dinner dishes.
Charlotte pours coffee for the guests. Dr. North eyes
Charlotte's every move. This does not go unnoticed by Ettie
who's consumed in her jealously of the servant girl.
Dr. North pats his lips with a white cloth napkin.
DR. NORTH
That was a most delectable meal. You out
did yourself once again Elizabeth.
Elizabeth pretends a shy smile of gratitude for his kind
words.
ELIZABETH
Thank you sir.
MR. JONES
Yes, I do agree. I have never tasted
game hen so tender.
DR. NORTH
Do you care to join me on the porch for a
smoke?
MR. JONES
I don't mind if I do.
(to the women at the table)
If you ladies will excuse us?
They stand.
DR. NORTH
(to Charlotte)
Bring us a couple glasses and a carafe of
my best brandy.
CHARLOTTE
Yes, sir. Right away.
Dr. North and Mr. Jones begin to leave the table.
Ettie jealously eyes Charlotte. She knocks one of her best
glasses over. It breaks.
ETTIE
(to Charlotte)
Oh, you clumsy fool. Look at what you
have done. That was my dear mother's
best china. It's irreplaceable.
DR. NORTH
That's not your mother's best china and
you know it. Charlotte, do as I told
you, bring us some brandy.
Charlotte doesn't know what to do.
ETTIE
(to Charlotte)
Clean up this mess at once.
Dr. North enjoys his wife's misery.
DR. NORTH
She'll get around to it, after she brings
us some brandy.
Dr. North and Mr. Jones step out onto the porch.
Mrs. Jones sits wide-eyed, not knowing what to say. Ettie is
fuming.
ETTIE
(angrily)
Excuse me.
Ettie storms away from the table.
Elizabeth begins to clean up the broken glass as Charlotte
brings the carafe of brandy out onto the porch.
Mrs. Jones is left sitting alone at the table.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - LATER SAME NIGHT
It's a quiet and somber night throughout the plantation.
The lights dim throughout the estate.
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE/ SECOND FLOOR HALLWAY - NIGHT
Dr. North's exits his bedroom and steps over Elizabeth who
appears to be asleep near the doorway to the room.
Dr. North's silhouette moves down the stairs to the first
floor. He makes his way to the room where Charlotte is
sleeping.
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE/CHARLOTTE'S ROOM - NIGHT
Charlotte lies in bed, she's weeping quietly to herself.
The door slowly opens and Dr. North enters the room. He
approaches Charlotte and startles her. Charlotte pulls the
covers up to her neck as she sits up.
CHARLOTTE
What is it? What do you want?
DR. NORTH
I couldn't help but, notice you've been
crying like a hunger puppy all night.
You've got to stop carrying on this way.
CHARLOTTE
I miss my Aunt Marthy.
DR. NORTH
Sure you do. That's only natural. But,
you'll have to get over it. There's a
brand new beginning ahead of you. You've
got a new home to tend to. You should
count your blessings.
CHARLOTTE
How can you pretend that you don't
understand the way I feel. Look at this
big Ôol house. Why, there's plenty of
room here for Aunt Marthy. You just
didn't want her around, I just know you
didn't.
DR. NORTH
Now, Charlotte that's a terrible thing to
say.
CHARLOTTE
I'm sorry, but that's the way I feel.
DR. NORTH
(whispering)
No harm child. Tell me, did you enjoy
your first day with us?
Charlotte doesn't answer as Dr. North moves closer.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
I admit my wife gets a bit out of hand,
but don't you worry about her, I'll keep
her from being too difficult with you.
CHARLOTTE
She hates me already. I can see it in
her eyes.
DR. NORTH
Well, she doesn't feel the way that I do
about you.
CHARLOTTE
Whatever do you mean?
DR. NORTH
You're very pleasing to behold.
Dr. North slowly pulls the covers down.
CHARLOTTE
Please sir, I need to rest for my morning
chores.
DR. NORTH
Do as I tell you and you'll not have to
lift a finger for any reason. Not never!
Dr. North is trying to seduce Charlotte and it's not working.
He touches her arm and then her leg.
CHARLOTTE
Please, don't do that.
DR. NORTH
I'm going to take real good care of you.
CHARLOTTE
You're frightening me.
DR. NORTH
That's nonsense. I'm not going to hurt
you. I wouldn't let anybody hurt you.
Charlotte tries to yell out. Dr. North puts his hand over
her mouth.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
Shh, you mustn't wake the rest of the
household.
Dr. North takes Charlottes hands and pulls them to her side
She struggles to pull from his grip, but he over powers her.
Suddenly, there's a slight tapping at the door.
Dr. North jumps up and moves to the door.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
(disturbed)
Yes, what is it?
ELIZABETH (VO)
Dr. North there was a servant boy of Mr.
James at the door. He said that Mr.
James child is feverish and that it's
urgent. He wants you to come right away.
DR. NORTH
Tell him that I'll be right there.
ELIZABETH
Yes sir, Dr. North. I'll let him know.
Dr. North turns back to Charlotte who has already covered her
body with the covers.
DR. NORTH
Duty calls. When I return we'll pick up
where we left off.
He exits the room stepping past Elizabeth. Elizabeth enters
the room.
CHARLOTTE
Thank you.
ELIZABETH
Thank you for what? Mr. North and I have
been playing this game for years.
CHARLOTTE
What do you mean?
ELIZABETH
Let's just say that I hope he doesn't get
too angry at me when he finds out that
the Jones child isn't ill atall.
Elizabeth laughs.
CHARLOTTE
I can't stay in this home. I'm got to go
away.
ELIZABETH
There isn't any place to go. Besides you
wouldn't get very far, Dr. North has men
with dogs that patrol this place nightly.
CHARLOTTE
Still, I can't allow that man to paw all
over me in that manner. I don't like it.
ELIZABETH
If you run, they'll catch you, and
they'll surely send you to the field for
the hard labor.
CHARLOTTE
I'd rather toil in the hot sun all my
days than to spend another moment with
that man.
ELIZABETH
You don't understand. There are plenty
of men on the plantation that would love
to get their hands on you. I'm afraid
the situation is a hopeless one.
CHARLOTTE
I can't accept that. I just won't.
Ettie calls for Elizabeth from her room.
ETTIE (VO)
Elizabeth. Elizabeth, come quickly.
ELIZABETH
(shouting to Ettie)
I'm a comin' Miss. North. I'm on my way.
(to Charlotte)
Don't be thinking about doing anything
foolish. You just get yourself some
sleep for now.
Elizabeth exits the room. Charlotte goes to the door and
locks it.
INT. AUCTION HOUSE - DAY
Several of the towns wealthy slave owners are present for the
sale of slaves.
The wealthy patrons sip glasses of wine or champagne in
contrast to the rustic surroundings.
The auctioneer Drew Parson enters the room and steps to the
podium. He drops the gavel.
DREW PARSON
All righty everyone, gather around. We
got us some prime stock here today so,
let's get this thing going.
The crowd gathers together and prepares for the bid.
Parson gestures to one of his men to bring in the first
slave.
A near naked, young black male is led to the center of the
straw covered floor by a BURLY AUCTION ASSISTANT .
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
This youngster has been raised on a
cotton plantation.
The young man is whipped a couple of strokes across his back
and arms. The young man tries to fend off the blows and
winces as the whip cracks down on his exposed skin.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
This boy can fill an eleven foot cotton
sack in better'n a full day out in the
field, and that's a fact.
One of Drew Parson's men reaches down and picks up a ladle
filled with salt and tosses it onto the fresh open wounds of
the young boy. He begins to howl in pain to the delight of
the people.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
He's strong as an ox and as you can see
he's a fine specimen for field labor.
Let's start the bid off at three hundred
dollars shall we?
Parson is skilled at the craft of auctioning. A WELL DRESSED
MAN with a paper thin mustache signals with his hand.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
I have three hundred dollars. Do I hear
four hundred?
A MAN IN OVERALLS with a FIELD HAND at his side bids four
hundred with a small gesture of tipping his hat.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
We have four hundred.
A dark haired, ELDERLY WOMAN with a white bonnet gestures.
The young man stands silent, frightened and helplessly unable
to do anything about his predicament.
ELDERLY WOMAN
Five hundred over here.
DREW PARSON
We've got five hundred from the little
lady with the pretty bonnet. Do I have
an offer for six? Six hundred, now
who'll give me six hundred?
The paper thin mustachioed man replies.
MUSTACHIOED MAN
Six hundred dollars.
(pause)
Union.
The crowd gets a kick out of the statement.
ELDERLY WOMAN
Six hundred and fifty dollars.
MUSTACHIOED MAN
Seven hundred.
ELDERLY WOMAN
Eight hundred dollars.
Silence.
The mustachioed man concedes. The farmer will go no higher.
DREW PARSON
Nine hundred. Who will go as high as
nine hundred dollars for this fine
looking specimen?
No takers.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
That's nine hundred going once. Nine
hundred going twice.
He slams the gavel.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
(to the elderly woman)
Sold to the lady in the lovely bonnet.
The crowd applauds.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
(to the elderly woman)
We'll transfer title to all property at
the end of the auction.
Parson tips his hat to the woman as the slave is led from the
floor.
Aunt Marthy is brought forward for sale.
She pulls from the arms of the burly auction assistant and
steps defiantly before the crowd.
A shameful silence settles over the people. Aunt Marthy
knows most of the folks by name. She addresses some of them.
AUNT MARTHY
Hello, Misses Tate. Did the wedding gown
that I made for your daughter suit you?
MISSES TATE (45), shamefully looks away.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Howdy do, Mr. Grange sir. I hope those
pretty little unmentionables that I
prepared for your woman friend suited
your taste.
MRS. GRANGE is outraged to be humiliated in front of this
exclusive group of people.
MR. GRANGE can't look at his wife. She's staring daggers at
her husband, boiling mad.
Aunt Marthy continues in her scorning and mocking fashion.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Let's see, who will take me home with
them today? I can cook. I can mend your
worn garments. And I can clean up any
mess you manage to get yourself into.
Hell, I can do just about anything you're
all too damn lazy to do for yourselves.
The burly assistant raises his whip to Aunt Marthy.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
(to the burly assistant)
You had better put that thing down young
man. You might wind up hurting yourself.
A few present find humor in her statement. The assistant
wisely does what Aunt Marthy says.
MISSES TATE
Who would sell Aunt Marthy? Everyone
knew she was to be emancipated.
MR. GRANGE'S WIFE
Shame on he who would try to sell off
good old Aunt Marthy.
The crowd begins to question amongst themselves about Aunt
Marty's situation.
Drew Parson bangs his gavel repeatedly.
DREW PARSON
(interrupting)
All right. Ya'll see we got us a feisty
one here. So, let's get back to business
folks. Yessir, she's mighty feisty for
her age, she's still got a few good years
left in her in reckon. Now what am I bid
for her? Let's start at fifty. Do I
hear fifty dollars?
The crowd looks around to see who would dare to bid on Aunt
Marthy. There are no bidders.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Come now, surely this woman could offer
up some use in one of your fine homes?
So, who'll be the first to bid?
Again no takers.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Fifty dollars? Why some of you folks
wouldn't have to reach very far into your
pockets to come up with fifty dollars.
Finally, a voice is heard coming from the back of the crowd.
It is the voice of Tilly, Dr. North's sister.
TILLY
I bid fifty dollars.
DREW PARSON
That's fine. Do I here sixty?
Silence.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Do I here fifty five?
TILLY
Ain't no one going to offer you sixty, so
give it a rest feller.
The crowd applauds.
DREW PARSON
This is preposterous. Fifty dollars for
a seamstress and a cook. Fifty dollars
going once. Fifty dollars going twice.
The gavel drops as Parson gives a look of disbelief to Dr.
North.
DREW PARSON (CONT'D)
Sold to the woman in the back for fifty
dollars.
The crowd parts like the red sea as Tilly triumphantly makes
her way to Aunt Marthy.
TILLY
(to Drew Parson)
I'd like to sign my papers now if you
don't mind.
DREW PARSON
We do all of the trading at the end of
the auction Ma'am.
TILLY
I said I'd like to sign the papers now.
Right now.
TILLY (CONT'D)
Howdy, Martha. You OK?
AUNT MARTHY
Yes, Ma'am. I'm doing just fine.
TILLY
Well, how Ôbout it mister. You deaf or
something? Get me them papers.
Tilly lights a hand rolled cigarette and cast her eyes to Dr.
North who had remained silent throughout the sale.
Parson gestures and has the papers are brought for Tilly to
sign.
Without looking at the papers she places a big X on the
document and hands the deed to Aunt Marthy.
TILLY (CONT'D)
(to the crowd of people)
So there ain't no mistake about what has
transpired here today. Aunt Marthy will
be walking out of here a free woman.
Tilly pulls out a document from her riding pants pocket.
TILLY (CONT'D)
I also have here a deed. This here paper
gives Martha the right to the land
holdings of the old Smith cottage.
DR. NORTH
(loudly)
I won't have it. You here me? I won't
stand for this.
TILLY
I'm sorry for you, but you got no say in
this matter.
Dr. North glares at his sister.
DR. NORTH
Just what do you think you're doing? Do
you think I'll just stand by and have me
a nigger maid for a neighbor?
TILLY
I'm figuring just that.
DR. NORTH
We'll see about this.
Dr. North storms out of the auction.
TILLY
(to Aunt Marthy)
Come on Martha, let's get out of this
place.
(she looks at Drew Parson)
It smells an awful lot like horsehit in
here.
The two women exit the auction house past the surprised town
folk.
EXT. AUCTION HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
North approaches Tilly as she and Aunt Marthy board her
coach.
DR. NORTH
You made a fool of me in there.
TILLY
No, I think you did a fine job yourself.
DR. NORTH
You won't get away with this.
TILLY
Let's get one thing straight. I owned
the Smith cottage and could do with it as
I pleased. Could I not?
Dr. North doesn't answer her.
TILLY (CONT'D)
Having no need for it and acquiring it in
the fashion that I did, I felt an urgency
to donate the property to a right good
cause.
DR. NORTH
(to Tilly)
I'll give you ten times what that cottage
is worth. Twenty!
TILLY
I'm sorry, I no longer hold the deed to
the property. You'll have to negotiate
with the new owner.
(to Aunt Marthy)
What do you say we go and take us a look
at your new home?
AUNT MARTHY
I say get to it.
TILLY
Yah!
She cracks her whip and the horses ride off.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - LATER SAME DAY
Charlotte and Elizabeth are busy scrubbing the kitchen floor.
Ettie approaches the kitchen doorway, leans on the doorframe
and folds her arms and watches Charlotte as she works.
ETTIE
My daughter needs tending to.
Charlotte stands and begins to dry her hands off.
CHARLOTTE
I'll get right to it Ma'am.
ETTIE
Not you. I wouldn't trust you alone with
my child. Elizabeth look after Celia for
a while.
ELIZABETH
Yes, Ma'am.
Elizabeth exits the kitchen.
ETTIE
So, do you finding everything suitable?
CHARLOTTE
Yes, Ma'am you have a beautiful home.
ETTIE
I wasn't referring to my home.
CHARLOTTE
What are you referring to?
ETTIE
I'm talking about my husband.
CHARLOTTE
I don't understand?
ETTIE
Don't play pretend games with me, like an
innocent child. I know what you're all
about. Do you think you're the first
young servant girl to work in my home?
CHARLOTTE
I wouldn't know anything about that.
Charlotte continues scrubbing the floor.
ETTIE
Wouldn't you?
CHARLOTTE
No Ma'am, I don't understand what you're
talking about.
ETTIE
You know perfectly well what I'm talking
about. I'm talking about my husband. I
want you to stay away from my husband.
CHARLOTTE
I've not gone near your husband.
ETTIE
Are you saying that what I've seen with
my owns eyes is just a figment of my
imagination?
CHARLOTTE
No, I'm not saying that.
ETTIE
Than you must be saying that I'm a liar?
CHARLOTTE
You're going to twist my words, no matter
what I say.
Ettie walks over to Charlotte.
ETTIE
If I was you, I'd keep an eye open at all
times. You better walk the straight and
narrow walk, and let's get one thing
perfectly clear. Crystal clear. I don't
like you. I don't want a home wrecker
like you in my home.
Ettie pulls a butcher knife off of the kitchen counter.
ETTIE (CONT'D)
Just let me catch you stepping out of
line, just once. You'll regret the day
you ever set foot in this house.
Ettie kicks over the bucket of water and it soaks Charlotte's
dress.
ETTIE (CONT'D)
Now get this mess cleaned up.
Ettie tosses down the knife and storms out of the kitchen.
Charlotte wipes the water away from her face. She stands and
runs out the back kitchen door.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - DAY
Dr. North's mansion is in the background.
Tilly's coach is parked in front of the old Smith's cottage.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Aunt Marthy and Tilly are standing in Aunt Marthy's new home.
AUNT MARTHY
This is like a dream come true. My very
own home.
Aunt Marthy opens a window here and checks a cabinet there.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Why?
TILLY
Why?
AUNT MARTHY
Why are you doing this for me?
TILLY
Martha, you know better than to look a
gift horse in the mouth.
AUNT MARTHY
How could I ever repay you?
TILLY
Believe me, the look on my dear brother's
face was payment enough for me. Finally,
there is something he can't manipulate.
Something he can't put a price on.
AUNT MARTHY
I thought surely, I was a goner back
there. After spending my life with Miss
Willis, I wouldn't know how to go about
starting all over again.
TILLY
Start by planting some rows of corn out
back. I'll send over some men I know who
can help you start off on the right
track. They can help you spruce up the
place. A coat of paint, some elbow
grease and a comfortable rocking chair by
the fireplace will be good for starters.
AUNT MARTHY
Amen to that. Miss Tilly, I don't know
how to thank you for all that you have
done for me.
TILLY
I have enough of a reward knowing that
Emily's wishes have been carried out.
(victoriously)
I enjoyed the look on my brother's face
when he realized that he lost out to me
once again.
(beat)
Some of the towns people might respect
that man. Others may fear him.
(amused)
But I seem to be the one who gets under
his skin.
Aunt Marthy looks towards the North's estate.
AUNT MARTHY
What will become of my Charlotte?
TILLY
That's one obstacle, I'm afraid that I
can't help you to overcome.
Tilly turns to leave and stops, turning back.
TILLY (CONT'D)
Good luck Martha.
Tilly exits.
AUNT MARTHY
My own home. I don't have a family to
live it with me, but I finally got my
very own home. Who would believe it?
Aunt Marthy picks up an old rug and steps to the front porch
and begins to shake off the dust.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - LATER SAME DAY
Ettie's in a rocking chair and fanning herself from the
terrible heat. She's been drinking pretty heavy for a while.
Dr. North coach arrives. He exits and hurriedly walks up the
steps to his home.
ETTIE
(agitated and confronting)
I want to talk to you.
DR. NORTH
Not now. I haven't the time for any of
your confounded jabbering woman.
He continues to walk on.
ETTIE
(loudly)
I said I want to talk to you.
Ettie throws a glass at Dr. North. He stops in his tracks.
ETTIE (CONT'D)
I will not live under the same roof as
one of your cheap little floozies.
DR. NORTH
You've been drinking.
ETTIE
Yes, I have.
DR. NORTH
As a matter of fact, you've been drinking
every afternoon and I don't like it.
ETTIE
And I've been watching you. I know what
you've been up to. Gallivanting around,
playing the part of a love struck little
boy and I don't like that.
DR. NORTH
You need to get hold of your senses.
ETTIE
Do you think that I am blind?
She throws a bottle at him. It shatters against the wall.
DR. NORTH
What I think is that you're imagination
has run wild on you. You're not yourself
lately.
ETTIE
Just the thought of you makes me ill.
Well, doctor have we any cure all?
DR. NORTH
I've heard enough of this. Where's
Celia? Where's my daughter?
ETTIE
I've sent her to my momma's. I don't
want her to see the way you've been
carousing and carrying on with that
servant girl. I was ashamed for you.
Oh, what would daddy think if he was
still alive?
DR. NORTH
Maybe you had better join your daughter
for a while.
ETTIE
Maybe. I'll just decide to stay.
DR. NORTH
If that's the way you feel, suit
yourself.
(calling to James)
Mrs. North will be leaving for a trip.
Have Edward prepare the coach. She'll be
ready to leave shortly.
Ettie sits back in one of the porch chairs.
ETTIE
You never really did care for me.
DR. NORTH
That's ridiculous.
He enters the home. She follows.
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE - CONTINUOUS
ETTIE
(hysterical)
You won't find her.
DR. NORTH
Find whom?
ETTIE
Your precious little servant girl. She's
gone. Like the wind. She ran off
sometime this morning. And for once, I
hope this one never returns.
EXT. GARYVILLE POST OFFICE - DAY
A poster is quickly hammered to a sign post:
$100 REWARD
Will be given for the apprehension and
delivery of my servant girl Charlotte.
She speaks easily and fluently and has an
agreeable carriage and address. Being a
good seamstress she has been accustomed
to dress well and will probably appear,
if abroad, tricked out in gay and
fashionable finery. As this girl
absconded from the plantation without any
cause or provocation, it is probable she
designs to transport herself to the
North. All persons are hereby forewarned
against harboring or entertaining her, or
being in any way instrumental in her
escape, under the most rigorous penalties
of the law.
JAMES NORTH
Garyville, Louisiana June 30, 1858
INT. EMILY WILLIS' ESTATE - CLOSE TO SUNSET
Charlotte walks pensive throughout the still manor. She
picks up one of her dresses that was left behind. Charlotte
stops at a wall mirror and gazes at her own reflection.
Charlotte acts out the part of a debutante.
CHARLOTTE
It was wonderful having you over for
supper this evening. You will be sure to
drop by and pay us a visit now and again
won't you?
A young and handsome man, NAT WHILDING peers from behind a
pillar that stands in the distance. He quietly and intently
listens to Charlotte speak to herself.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
Oh, it wasn't a fuss at all. I rather
enjoyed having you with us. Yes, I too
had a delightful time. Thank you once
again.
Whilding is amused at what he hears.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
What's that? You wish to call on me?
Why, I'd have to ask my daddy for his
approval of course. You know how parents
can be. Good day to you to sir.
Charlotte opens the door, which allows her eloquent and quite
invisible guest to pass into the evening.
Charlotte curtsies.
Charlotte snaps back to reality and becomes enraged.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
I have two eyes as you. Two ears to
hear. Just like you. I have a heart
that sheds crimson blood, just as your
heart does shed.
(pause)
The only difference is the color of my
skin. There is nothing else.
Whilding steps from behind the pillar. He's seen in the
mirror from Charlotte's POV. She's frightened.
Whilding approaches her.
WHILDING
You make a most interesting argument.
But I was wondering, who's eyes are just
like yours? And those ears?
(he flicks her ears)
Are they exactly like this person you
speak of?
He's now standing directly behind her.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
And this heart. Is it not the heart of a
very beautiful young woman?
CHARLOTTE
It's a broken heart.
WHILDING
Why is this heart so broken? Can it be
mended?
CHARLOTTE
Who are you sir?
WHILDING
My name is Whilding. Nathaniel Whilding.
I prefer to be called Nat, but not to be
confused with those pesky little jiggers
that fly about your head. And you?
CHARLOTTE
My name is Charlotte.
WHILDING
Hello Charlotte. May I inquire of you?
What are you are doing in this old home?
CHARLOTTE
I used to live here not so long ago.
WHILDING
Then you must be the girl who fled the
North's estate?
CHARLOTTE
Have you come to return me to Dr. North?
WHILDING
Certainly not. But, everyone is talking
about you.
CHARLOTTE
Please, don't make me go back to that
man.
WHILDING
You have caused a great deal of trouble
for Dr. North. But rest easy, I will not
take you back to him.
CHARLOTTE
Then you haven't come to take me back?
WHILDING
No, I have no intention of taking you
back to Dr. North. I, very much like
yourself have a certain loathing for Dr.
James North.
CHARLOTTE
Then why are you here?
WHILDING
I am thinking of purchasing this handsome
home. Grant it, it is a relic and it
does require much work. But I may find
it a satisfactory home. Charlotte, tell
me...
He walks towards the front window.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
Should I tear down the gazebo and build
one anew?
CHARLOTTE
Oh no, my father built it. He was one of
the best carpenters in the state of
Louisiana during his day. Why, he built
many fine homes. Miss Willis, she
allowed my father to earn his own keep.
He walked about as a free man and could
come and go and do as he pleased. My
father did so well for himself that he
purchased his own freedom.
WHILDING
What became of him?
CHARLOTTE
He passed on.
She runs her fingers along the detailed woodwork trim.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
He did all of the fine carpentry work in
this home as well.
(pause)
I remember when he laid the trim of this
very floor. It took several weeks. And
Miss Willis was as proud of his labor as
I was of having him for a father.
WHILDING
Is that why you've returned here?
CHARLOTTE
I don't know why. I know that I don't
have any other place to go. My family is
all gone now. They're all gone. I don't
know what has become of my dear Aunt
Marthy.
WHILDING
(laughing)
You're a relation to dear old Aunty
Marthy?
CHARLOTTE
Yes. What's so funny?
Whilding continues to laugh.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
Why do you laugh so?
WHILDING
Haven't you heard?
CHARLOTTE
Heard? Heard what?
WHILDING
Aunty Marthy is a free woman!
CHARLOTTE
No, you must be mistaken, Aunt Marthy had
been sold off. Dr. North led her away.
I witnessed it myself.
WHILDING
Yes, we're talking about the same dear
old Aunty Marthy.
CHARLOTTE
She's free? Aunt Marthy's really free?
WHILDING
As free as a bird.
She throws her arms around Whilding in her excitement.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
The whole towns talking about it. Miss
Tilly emancipated Aunt Marthy. She also
gave her the old Smith cottage that's
adjacent to Dr. North's estate.
CHARLOTTE
Aunt Marthy has her very own home. Will
miracles never cease?
She realizes that her arms are around a stranger. Charlotte
attempts to pull away. Whilding stops her.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
Now, you just let me go.
WHILDING
Let me help you. I'll take you to see
her.
CHARLOTTE
Why would you help me?
Whilding touches her face softly.
WHILDING
Because you need me to help you and I
desire so.
Charlotte looks out at the sun that is setting.
CHARLOTTE
No, you mustn't. As soon as the sun goes
down I'm going to run. I'm going to find
a way to make it to the northern states.
WHILDING
That's exactly what you shouldn't do.
There are bulletins posted everywhere
with a substantial reward for you.
CHARLOTTE
I have no other choice. I've got to go.
I can't never return to Dr. North.
WHILDING
You won't get to the end of the county
before they drag you back in chains.
CHARLOTTE
That's a chance that I'll have to take.
WHILDING
I'll take you to your Aunt Marthy's
place. She can hide you until we can
come up with a way to get you some help.
(he kisses her neck)
But, first.
Whilding continues to seduce Charlotte. She doesn't fight
off his advances.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. DIRT ROAD - NIGHT
Dr. North, BART (45), a bearded, toothless and violent man
who overseas North's plantation and some of his men are
riding horseback.
They're riding hard as they swiftly approach Aunt Marthy's
home.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - NIGHT
Aunt Martha is awoken from the sound of the approaching
horses. She slips into her robe and goes to see what the
commotion is.
Aunt Marthy sees Dr. North and his men arriving at her home.
Dr. North barges in the front door unannounced.
AUNT MARTHY
What are you doing here?
DR. NORTH
(to Bart)
Search this place from top to bottom.
She's got to be here somewhere.
(in a threatening manner to
Aunt Marthy)
Tell us where she is or I'll tear this
place apart.
A hound is led into Aunt Marthy's home and begins to search
for Charlotte.
North's men fill the home and start to ransack the place.
AUNT MARTHY
I don't know what you're talking about?
DR. NORTH
I'm talking about your dear, sweet
Charlotte. She ran away from my estate
and I want her back where she lawfully
belongs.
North's men are dumping drawers and knocking items from
shelves.
AUNT MARTHY
She's not here.
DR. NORTH
Well, if she is we'll find her.
AUNT MARTHY
I don't know where she is. How could I?
After all, she wouldn't have any way of
knowing how to find me.
North's men acknowledge that Charlotte's not there.
BART
It don't appear that she's here.
AUNT MARTHY
I already told you she's not here and I
don't know where she is.
BART
I say she knows where we can find the
girl. Let's save ourselves a lot of
trouble. String her up, I'll get her to
tell the truth.
DR. NORTH
No need, she's telling the truth.
One of Bart's men JESSIE (26), a thin fellow runs into the
home, brandishing a rifle.
JESSIE
She ain't out back.
AUNT MARTHY
Something terrible must have happened for
her to run off like that. What have you
done to her?
DR. NORTH
I want you off of this property
immediately.
AUNT MARTHY
You'd have to kill me first.
DR. NORTH
Maybe I'll do just that!
AUNT MARTHY
Dr. North, I'm just an old woman. Miss
Willis is gone, only God knows where my
Charlotte's run off to. I ain't got much
to live for anymore. But, you can put
your last dollar on a sure thing, wild
horses couldn't drag me from this land.
This is the first thing I ever had to
call my own. I intend to hold on to it.
DR. NORTH
And I intend to make it impossible for
you to do just that.
AUNT MARTHY
Why would a self-respecting business man
like yourself behave in such a manner?
And I'd like to know why you're making
such a fuss over my little girl? Dr.
North, I'll like to make you an offer you
can't refuse.
DR. NORTH
What makes you think that you're in a
position to barter with me?
AUNT MARTHY
Let's just say that I'm hoping that we
can come to amicable arrangements.
DR. NORTH
What kind of amicable arrangements do you
have in mind?
AUNT MARTHY
I'll gladly give you this property.
Dr. North looks over at the men that fill Aunt Marthy's home.
They laugh at her last statement.
DR. NORTH
Surely, you must have something else in
mind?
AUNT MARTHY
All I'm asking you to do is set Charlotte
free.
DR. NORTH
Oh, and you'd like that wouldn't you?
AUNT MARTHY
More than you'll ever know.
DR. NORTH
I'm afraid that's impossible.
AUNT MARTHY
Now here me out. If she's run off as you
claim, then there's a chance that she'll
never return. Set her free and this
piece of land is all yours.
DR. NORTH
Do you think that it's gonna be that
easy? That I'll just give you, your
little Charlotte and we shake hands and
go our separate ways? I don't have to
bargain with you. If I want to, I can
take this property from you and there
ain't nothing you could do about it. My
answer is no.
AUNT MARTHY
Just let me have my Charlotte and we'll
go far from this place and you'll never
hear from us again. You got my word on
that.
DR. NORTH
The answer is still no. Now you hear me,
I can make staying in Garyville
impossible for you. A nightmare if you
choose.
AUNT MARTHY
(solemn)
I have made a fair offer to you and
you've refused me. Furthermore, you
persist in threatening me.
(anger growing)
And you barge into my home, like a bunch
of animals with no manners. Just look at
what you've done to my place. I want you
all to get out of here now. Get out of
my home.
DR. NORTH
Let's go boys. We're wasting time here.
Bart glares at Aunt Marthy.
North and his men exit Aunt Marthy's.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
North and his men saddle up.
DR. NORTH
(to Bart)
You take some men and head Northward back
toward the plantation. The rest of you
men follow me.
Aunt Marthy steps to the front porch and watches as Dr. North
sends his men on their way.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
(to Aunt Marthy)
You've not heard the end of this.
Dr. North and his men ride off.
EXT. GAZEBO OF THE WILLIS' ESTATE - NIGHT
Charlotte lies alone in a lounge chair. She stares up at the
moonlight, which is shining down on her face.
Whilding is fastening the sleeve buttons on his opened shirt.
He looks to Charlotte. They have just finished making love.
CHARLOTTE
Do you believe that if you wish for
something hard enough, that it will
happen for you?
WHILDING
I don't know. I'm not sure. Maybe.
Possibly. But, I don't believe in divine
intervention.
CHARLOTTE
Oh, I do. I've seen it with my own eyes.
WHILDING
What is it that you've seen with your own
eyes.
CHARLOTTE
It's hard to explain. You just know when
God has his hand in something. It's a
feeling you get inside. A sort of
confirmation.
WHILDING
What exactly is God? Is man really made
in his own image?
He takes a seat along side of Charlotte.
CHARLOTTE
Oh, yes and much more. God is in all
things. Both big and small.
WHILDING
What I believe is that if you work hard
enough and long enough, with a purpose,
it wouldn't be fair if you didn't obtain
your goal.
CHARLOTTE
Doesn't that sound like God has indeed
intervened to lend a helping hand?
WHILDING
I wouldn't put it that quite that way.
And it wouldn't be as rewarding to obtain
a goal if i knew that God was always
there to lend a helping hand. Some
things you just got to do on your.
CHARLOTTE
Yes, but God should always be there for
you, as a guiding light.
WHILDING
It would make holy.
CHARLOTTE
Yes, holy.
Charlotte sits silent for a while.
WHILDING
What's wrong?
CHARLOTTE
Oh, nothing.
She sits quite for a while again.
WHILDING
A penny for your thoughts?
CHARLOTTE
I was always taught that it was a holy
act.
WHILDING
You mean making love?
CHARLOTTE
Making love. What is love?
WHILDING
Love is a beautiful thing.
CHARLOTTE
Then how come I feel only shame? And
sorrow?
WHILDING
You shouldn't feel that way. You've done
no wrong.
CHARLOTTE
I can't help to feel that I have. I
wanted to wait. To hold off until I
found myself a good man. A man to spend
a lifetime together. I believed with all
my heart that someday that day would
come. Now I don't know if happiness is
really obtainable. Or if it's just a
word that someone made up somewhere, in
some time long, long ago.
WHILDING
It will come if you work at it hard
enough. It wouldn't be right if
happiness never did come for you. I wish
I could give you the happiness you seek.
CHARLOTTE
I'm awfully tired now. I want to get
some sleep. Will you promise to take me
to Aunt Marthy's in the morning?
Whilding stands and reaches his hand out to Charlotte.
WHILDING
I'll take you to her first thing in the
morning.
Charlotte stands. Whilding and Charlotte walk toward the
Willis mansion.
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE - DAY
North is sitting at the breakfast table. He sits alone.
Elizabeth brings him his breakfast.
DR. NORTH
Elizabeth.
ELIZABETH
Yes sir, Dr. North.
DR. NORTH
Who put you up to that chicanery the
other evening?
ELIZABETH
I don't know what you are talking about
sir?
DR. NORTH
I'm talking about the Mr. James incident.
His boy seemed to have gotten over his
fever rather quickly. In fact, so
quickly that Mr. James himself did not
even recall sending for me.
Dr. North stands and approaches Elizabeth.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
Where's Charlotte?
ELIZABETH
I don't know.
DR. NORTH
I know that you know something. I won't
ask you again. I said where is she?
ELIZABETH
I really have no idea sir.
Dr. North stands, he begins to beat Elizabeth terribly with
his cane.
DR. NORTH
I'll teach you to interfere with my
affairs.
She cries out, attempting to block the fury of his blows.
There's a knock at the door.
Dr. North stops beating Elizabeth and goes to the door.
Dr. North opens the door. Bart is standing at the door and
breathing rapidly.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
What is it?
BART
They found that girl of yours.
DR. NORTH
Where was she?
BART
She was hiding out at the old Willis
estate.
North is very excited.
DR. NORTH
Where is she now?
BART
They've taken her to the jailhouse.
DR. NORTH
Well, what are you standing around here
for? Go and get her.
BART
The men are inquiring about the reward
money.
Dr. North pulls some money from his pants pocket and hands it
to Bart.
DR. NORTH
Here, you take this money and give it to
them. And tell them I'm much obliged for
what they have done. Tell them to stop
by anytime they want for supper or
anything atall.
BART
Yes, sir. I'll be sure to let Ôem know.
Bart turns to go.
DR. NORTH
Wait! Don't bring her back here. Take
her to the women's quarters at the
plantation. And you make sure she's
marched in front of that old woman's
cottage over yonder.
BART
Yes, sir.
Bart hops his saddleless horse and rides off.
Dr. North turns back to Elizabeth.
DR. NORTH
I'm not through with you.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - CONTINUOUS
Bart rides toward the town.
Elizabeth cries, which come from inside of North's estate can
be heard as Dr. North continues to beat her with his cane.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte is shackled and chained and is being led by Bart
past Aunt Marthy's home. Aunt Marthy steps from her porch.
Tears run down Charlotte's face as she notices Aunt Marthy.
Charlotte moves a little in the direction toward Aunt Marthy.
BART
(yanking the chain)
Where do you think you're going?
Aunt Marthy who is emotionally torn, doesn't speak a word to
Charlotte as the progression passes her home.
BART (CONT'D)
(to Charlotte)
You just keep walking.
Aunt Marthy and Charlotte look longing to each other as the
procession of HUNTERS and DOGS continue to move toward
North's plantation.
EXT. NORTH'S PLANTATION - DAY
Rain showers over the plantation.
Field workers are toiling in the distance.
Dr. North arrives in his coach. He remains seated in his
coach, protected by the rain.
Charlotte is brought before Dr. North by Bart. She's been
working in the field and is soaking wet and cold. She does
not look at Dr. North.
DR. NORTH
It's good to see you again. Are you
being treated fairly?
Charlotte does not answer.
BART
Answer the boss man.
Bart shoves her.
DR. NORTH
(to Bart)
Now, Bart we'll have none of that.
(to Charlotte)
I do apologize for Bart's aggressive
demeanor. He's got one hell of a mean
streak in him. Sometimes he can get down
right ornery. You should be careful, a
girl as dainty as yourself could catch
her death of cold. Now, how would you
like to come in out of the rain.
North opens his coach door.
Charlotte doesn't answer or respond.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
You're a stubborn young thing. But, I
think I like that about you.
(sounding concerned)
I'm sorry for having to send you her to
the plantation. I know it's not the
luxury that you've grown accustomed to.
But, you see I'm in the midst of a
terrible dilemma, Mrs. North is not very
fond of you. She does not wish for you
to stay at our home any longer.
(attempting to frighten
Charlotte)
It's usually quite hot out here. The
work is dreadfully fierce.
Dr. North takes his cane and pushes Charlottes chin up so she
has to look at him.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
Your soft hands will become callused and
worn. Your face will fill with lines and
turn coarse and leathery.
(sounding concerned)
A young woman like you should be wearing
the finest silks and satins and smell of
honeysuckle perfume.
(pause)
I can give you all of these things. I
can take you from a life of washing and
cooking for others. I can even give you
a place of your own. Wouldn't you like
that?
CHARLOTTE
I have no desire to have these things
that you speak of... nor will I do what
you want of me to acquire them.
Dr. North's soft touch of his cane turns rougher on
Charlottes chin.
DR. NORTH
Enough, you will do as I say or you will
curse the day you were born.
CHARLOTTE
I have cursed the day I was born since
the day I realized that I was not born
free to do as I please.
DR. NORTH
If you do not as I say, you will force on
yourself great despair and sorrow. A
kind that you've never known.
CHARLOTTE
You've taken me from the only person I
have left to love. What more sorrow do
you think you could possibly impose upon
me?
DR. NORTH
(shouting to Bart)
Bart.
Bart comes running back over to the coach.
BART
Yes, sir?
DR. NORTH
She's to work in the field daily. Sunday
as well.
(to Charlotte)
That is until you decide to come to your
senses.
(to his coachman)
Let's get on.
(to Charlotte)
Think about it? But don't take too long.
The coach moves along.
BART
(to Charlotte)
You heard the boss, get to workin'.
Charlotte returns to the field and works in the pouring rain.
INT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
Charlotte lies on a cot. Some of the women are gathered
around. ROSY (50), a religious woman with a strong will
tends to Charlotte.
Another woman they call JEZEBEL (40), because her name fits
her character speaks.
CHARLOTTE
I don't feel well. I don't know what's
wrong?
JEZEBEL
(to Charlotte)
You just hold on girl. It's always
roughest your first days in the field.
After that, your body just grows stronger
and stronger.
ROSY
(to Jezebel)
It ain't that. She's been throwing up
and she's awful dizzy. I think she's
pregnant.
JEZEBEL
That ain't no news around here.
The women continue to look over Charlotte as she lies on the
cot.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - DAY
MONTAGE:
Free BLACK MEN work plowing rows of corn in Aunt Marthy's
newly seeded field.
Dr. North's coach passes Aunt Marthy's home. As it does, Dr.
North watches the men labor in the field.
Aunt Marthy brings the men some fresh made lemonade.
The corn field in various stages of growth.
Aunt Marthy standing proud over her crop of corn.
The corn field is fully grown with a crop that is ready to be
gathered and taken to the market.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - NIGHT
It's very dark.
A group of men move about the yard.
A match is struck.
The corn field goes up in flames.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Aunt Marthy stands in a window. She watches the corn that
had been ready for harvest burns to the ground.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - CONTINUOUS
Dr. North is sitting on a rocking chair on his front porch.
North strikes a match and lights a corn pipe. He watches the
fire that burns in the distance. The fire that has destroyed
Aunt Marthy's crop of corn.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - DAY
Aunt Marthy and Tilly stand before the burnt corn stalks.
The men that toiled in her field lower their heads.
TILLY
(to the men)
Well, you men gonna stand around her all
day liked a bunch of whipped puppies? Or
are ya'll gonna start planting some new
seed? Well, what's it gonna be?
AUNT MARTHY
We're gonna plant us a new field. Ain't
that right boys. Ain't nobody gonna whip
us. We got us a battle on our hands.
And we's gonna win it!
The men make their way toward the field.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
(to Tilly')
I don't know if we're doing the right
thing.
TILLY
Don't you pay it no mind. And don't you
dare fold your hand. We're not through
just yet.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. NORTH'S CANE FIELD - DAY
It's very hot, humid and sunny.
Charlotte's beginning to show signs of pregnancy. She labors
in the field gathering sugar cane in bundles and burning
stock.
She notices a towering, lean, muscular servant who keeps
looking her way and smiling warmly.
WILLIAM (30), begins to work his way to where Charlotte has
been working.
The taskmaster Bart is busy scolding a FIELD WORKER for not
working hard enough.
BART
You lazy bastard, if you expect your
supper tonight you best be workin' harder
then that boy.
The filed worker picks up his pace.
BART (CONT'D)
And if you're wantin' to taste the hide
of this here whip, you're headin' in the
right direction.
FIELD WORKER
No need for that sir.
William's chopping the tall sugar cane, leveling them with
single strong blows.
William is now within talking distance of Charlotte.
WILLIAM
Looks like you're with child Ma'am?
CHARLOTTE
It appears so.
WILLIAM
You're Charlotte, am I right in saying
this Ma'am?
CHARLOTTE
You best be getting along sir, you'll be,
you'll get yourself in trouble.
WILLIAM
I'll be beaten Ma'am? Is that what you
were gonna say?
CHARLOTTE
Please just keep to yourself.
WILLIAM
I've been whipped more times than a man
can count Ma'am. It ain't something I
look forward to, but it's not something I
fear anymore.
Charlotte notices the scars strewn across his arms, legs and
chest.
CHARLOTTE
I'm sorry for you.
WILLIAM
That's alright Ma'am, besides, there's
one thing they can't affect and that's my
mind. Can't affect the way I think nor
the way I feel about things.
CHARLOTTE
And how do you feel about things?
WILLIAM
I feel, no. I know, that someday all
this is gonna pass. Just don't know
when. But when it does, I'm gonna own me
a place just like old man North's home.
And I'll sit on my front porch sippin'
lemonade and singing me some songs.
Songs about freedom.
CHARLOTTE
You must be crazy.
WILLIAM
I may be crazy, but I ain't nuts. You
see, there's a street paved with gold
somewhere and a mansion for everyman. If
this was not true, the Lord would have
told us so. All you got to do is get on
the train that takes you there. Now, I
ain't never been on no train before.
But, that Ma'am is one train that I don't
intend to miss.
CHARLOTTE
Who are you sir?
WILLIAM
They call me Bigun, Ma'am.
CHARLOTTE
I want to know your name. Not what they
call you.
WILLIAM
My Momma, she named me William. Least,
that's what I was told.
CHARLOTTE
Then William it shall be.
WILLIAM
Don't know for sure Ôcause I got no
recollection of her. I was taken away
from her just as soon as I was born.
CHARLOTTE
I'm sorry.
WILLIAM
Ma'am, there's a lot of talk goin'
around, folks saying you know how to read
and write.
CHARLOTTE
That's what folks are saying?
WILLIAM
I'm wantin' you to teach me. I heard
tell there's a movement. A movement to
get our folks their freedom.
CHARLOTTE
Freedom.
WILLIAM
Yes, Ma'am, freedom to go where you want
to go. Freedom to raise your children in
the way it seems fit.
CHARLOTTE
Live for today William and keep your
faith in the Lord for only he can guide
us as he guided the Hebrew children out
of bondage. Just follow the calling of
the Lord.
Bart yelling from across the field.
BART
Bigun, if I gotta come over there and put
you to work, I'm gonna whip you boy.
WILLIAM
I'll be around tonight after supper.
William yelling back.
WILLIAM (CONT'D)
Ain't no need for that sir. Well, Ma'am,
I reckon I got me another callin' right
now.
CHARLOTTE
Good day to you William and please, call
me Charlotte.
WILLIAM
Good day Charlotte.
William is all smiles. He begins to walk away swiftly
chopping cane.
WILLIAM (CONT'D)
(shouting to Bart)
I'm cuttin' boss. I'm cuttin'.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. MALE QUARTERS - NIGHT
Men sleep in rows on piles of straw.
Dogs can be heard barking in the distance.
William lifts his head to see if the coast is clear. He
stands and makes his way to the doorway. He peeks his head
out to see if all is clear once again.
EXT. MALE QUARTERS - NIGHT
William runs off into the darkness of the night.
EXT. PLANTATION GROUNDS - CONTINUOUS
Bart and Jessie are patrolling the grounds with a couple of
hounds.
They walk past a section of trees where William is hiding.
The hounds stop and sniff in William's direction.
Bart and Jessie stop to investigate.
JESSIE
Them dawgs is awful jittery tonight.
BART
Them dogs is always jittery Ôbout
somethin'. C'mon, let's get movin'. I
got me a poker game waitin'.
Jessie yanks on the dogs chains and they move on.
William runs away under the cover of the trees, he swiftly
makes his way to the woman's quarters.
EXT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
William creeps up to the woman's quarters. He calls into the
quarters for Charlotte.
WILLIAM
Charlotte? Charlotte, it's me William.
I'm here.
Charlotte comes to the porch.
CHARLOTTE
You're going to get yourself in a heap of
trouble coming Ôround here.
WILLIAM
I'm hear for my reading and writing
lesson.
CHARLOTTE
William. It's too dangerous. You got on
back now. Go on!
WILLIAM
I ain't gonna leave until you teach me to
read in write.
CHARLOTTE
It ain't that easy. It takes time.
WILLIAM
I'll be the quickest learner that ever
did learn.
CHARLOTTE
You're a stubborn man. How can I refuse
you. C'mon in, but it's going to have to
be a quick lesson.
WILLIAM
Let's get to it.
Charlotte leads William into the quarters.
EXT. NORTH'S PLANTATION - NIGHT
Dr. North rides horseback toward his plantation. He runs
into Bart, Jessie and their dogs.
BART
Evening sir. Out for an evening ride?
DR. NORTH
You might say that.
BART
On your way to visit with one of the
women folk?
DR. NORTH
You might say that as well.
Dr. North continues to ride on.
JESSIE
So much for your card game.
BART
Shut up.
The men continue on patrol.
EXT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
Approaching from the distance is Dr. North. He steps from
his horse and ties it to a tree.
He begins to walk to the women's quarters.
Charlotte steps onto the front porch. She looks about to see
if all is clear. It appears so.
CHARLOTTE
(to William)
OK, it looks clear. You can come out.
William steps out of the quarters.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
Hurry along now.
WILLIAM
A E I O U and sometimes Y. Thank you for
the lesson. Maybe someday, I'll be able
to repay you for your kindness.
CHARLOTTE
No need for that. Just get along.
WILLIAM
You know, you're the purdiest thing I
ever laid my eyes on.
CHARLOTTE
Well thank you, but you really must be
going.
North catches Charlotte and William in their conversation.
He hides behind a dead tree hollow eavesdropping on Charlotte
and William's conversation.
William takes Charlotte by the hand. Charlotte pulls back.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
William, get going if Bart finds you,
he'll whip your hide, then he'll tell Dr.
North and he'll sell you off or worse,
he'll probably kill you.
WILLIAM
Miss Charlotte, I wish I could marry you.
I'd take real good care of that child of
yours.
CHARLOTTE
You mustn't say such foolish things. Dr.
North would never allow it.
WILLIAM
If we were to run together. There
wouldn't be a thing he could do about it.
Nothin'. We could get our own place,
raise our own cotton an sugarcane, maybe
some corn too.
CHARLOTTE
That would be nice, but it isn't
possible.
WILLIAM
Anything is possible if you believe it
hard enough.
CHARLOTTE
You're not the first person to say that
to me.
William takes Charlotte into his arms.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
It's not for us to dream.
WILLIAM
We're gonna run. Gonna run like that old
Mississippi river runs.
CHARLOTTE
Lord knows I want to. The way Dr. North
looks at me, always touching me whenever
he pleases, then threatening me with that
cane of his whenever I won't comply.
She wraps her arms around herself as if a sudden cold breeze
blew past.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
I'm afraid of that man.
WILLIAM
Open your eyes, Charlotte. Boss man
North sent you here to do the hard labor.
To break your spirit. You ain't the
first beautiful woman he had sent to the
fields and forgot about.
William kisses her hand softly.
Dogs begin barking in the distance.
CHARLOTTE
That must be Bart and his men. Run
William, run while you still can.
WILLIAM
Thing about it.
William turns to run, he stops, turns back and takes
Charlotte closely.
WILLIAM (CONT'D)
Give me your answer tomorrow.
William kisses Charlottes forehead and runs into the
darkness.
Charlotte watches William run off and then turns to enter the
quarters.
Dr. North steps out from behind the old hollow startling
Charlotte.
DR. NORTH
Who was that?
CHARLOTTE
Dr. North.
DR. NORTH
I said who was that? Woman, answer me.
CHARLOTTE
I'll never tell.
DR. NORTH
He's the father of that child isn't he?
Dr. North raises his cane in anger to strike Charlotte. She
steps away and attempts to block his blow.
CHARLOTTE
No, he's not.
DR. NORTH
I'll sell off every damn nigger on this
plantation if I have to. He's the father
of that child your carrying isn't he?
Answer me.
CHARLOTTE
My babies father is a white man. He's a
free man.
DR. NORTH
Maybe so, but that child you're carrying
is my property and I'll do with it as I
deem appropriate.
CHARLOTTE
What do you mean?
DR. NORTH
I'll sell that child as soon as it's born
and you'll never know what became of it.
Then, I'll purchase myself a brand new
buggy with the proceeds. Think of it,
every time you see that buggy ride along,
you'll be forced to think of that child
you long to hold close to your bosom.
Charlotte begins to cry. Dr. North softens.
DR. NORTH (CONT'D)
Charlotte, when are you going to come to
your senses? I have the power to take
you from all of this. I can give you a
place of your own. Why do you continue
to resist me so?
CHARLOTTE
You have the power to take my child, you
have the power to keep me here, but you
don't have the power to make me feel
anything for you.
I know why you keep me here, you don't
fool me for a moment. It's not because
your wife wants me here. Your wife left
you long ago.
DR. NORTH
Yes, yes she left me. She left me
because she thought...
CHARLOTTE
Because she thought that this baby that I
carry is yours. And we both know that
it's not your child.
DR. NORTH
(angered)
That child is mine and I'll do as I
please with it.
CHARLOTTE
I'll never change my mind.
DR. NORTH
Never say never. You best get along now,
you've a long hard day ahead of you
tomorrow.
Dr. North returns to his horse and rides off.
INT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte enters her cabin weeping.
She blows out the glowing light of a candle. Charlotte weeps
in the darkness.
EXT. PLANTATION GROUNDS - NIGHT
William runs toward his quarters. He's spotted by Bart and
Jessie.
BART
Looky there!
Bart pulls his gun and fires one shot in the direction of
William.
William continues to run.
The hounds pulls Jessie in the direction of the scent of
William.
JESSIE
They're on to him now. He ain't gonna
get away.
MONTAGE:
EXT. PLANTATION GROUNDS - NIGHT
William races through the bramble. The dogs continue to bark
and follow his scent.
INT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
Charlotte opens her eyes and listens as the dogs continue to
give chase.
EXT. PLANTATION GROUNDS - NIGHT
Bart and his men corner William by the side of the
Mississippi river.
William contemplates jumping into the river.
BART
Go ahead and jump boy. I'd like to see
you drown yourself.
William is shackled and led back to the plantation.
EXT. PLANTATION/SUGARCANE FIELD - DAY
Charlotte is working in the field when she spots Bart, Jessie
and two others on horseback approaching William. Charlotte
can't here what they're saying, but she senses that something
is wrong.
Bart puts a shotgun to William's head while Jessie jumps off
his horse. He shackles William's hands and feet.
BART
Alright, let's go.
The men lead William to the barn where Dr. North is waiting
at the entrance, brandishing a whip.
JESSIE
(to William)
Can you read my mind?
William is led on.
EXT. PLANTATION/BARN - CONTINUOUS
Dr. North wraps the whip in his hands.
DR. NORTH
(to William)
There seems to be a lot of talk about
reading and writing? About a movement up
north. About running north. About
fleeing my plantation. Boy, you're my
best workers, I'll be damned if I lose
you to high tailin'.
(to Bart)
Take him into the barn.
The men jump off their horses. Bart pushes William into the
barn.
INT. PLANTATION/BARN - CONTINUOUS
DR. NORTH
Tie him up to the barn post, boys. Make
sure them ropes are good and tight. We
wouldn't want him to get away again.
The men begin to tie William to the barn post.
EXT. PLANTATION/SUGARCANE FIELD - CONTINUOUS
All of the field workers stop working and stand facing the
barn.
Charlotte's falls down and begins to weep aloud.
CHARLOTTE
It's all my fault.
One of the slave women, Rosy comes to offer her comfort.
ROSY
It ain't your fault. You didn't do
anything wrong. The boy just wanted to
learn to read and write. That's all.
CHARLOTTE
No! Lord no. Dear God, give the man
strength.
ROSY
Turn away. Don't listen.
(not really believing what she
says)
He's gonna be just fine.
INT. PLANTATION/BARN - DAY
Inside the barn, Bart and his men have their rifles drawn and
pointed toward William.
Dr. North is stoned face and proceeds with his line of
questioning.
Bart and Jessie add fuel to Dr. North's fire.
BART
He fancies that girl Charlotte, Dr.
North.
JESSIE
I seen him talkin' at her daily. Makin'
eyes and such.
DR. NORTH
Did you leave your cabin last night boy?
The whip lands a blow on William's back.
WILLIAM
Yes, sir.
BART
I think he was planning on running off
with her.
DR. NORTH
You planning to run away?
Another blow lands on his back harder.
WILLIAM
If I had the opportunity. Yes sir, I
surely would.
Dr. North begins to whip William furiously.
EXT. PLANTATION/SUGARCANE FIELD - CONTINUOUS
The beating can be heard throughout the field.
One worker covers his ears.
Others with heads bowed, silently pray for William.
INT. PLANTATION/BARN - CONTINUOUS
The hired men are speechless, eyes wince and blink as they
await the next blow to Williams back.
DR. NORTH
Come again boy. That woman Charlotte do
you fancy her?
WILLIAM
Yes sir.
DR. NORTH
I guarantee you one thing, you'll not
take her for wife.
The whipping continues.
WILLIAM
(almost shouting)
The day it's gonna come sir, when a black
man can choose his own wife. The day it
gonna come sir, when your whip will be
laid to rest and no more shall the black
man toil for naught. The day its gonna
come sir, when all black men shall be
free.
DR. NORTH
That day will never come in America boy.
Not today. Not never.
Dr. North angrily grabs the rifle from Bart.
WILLIAM
The day sir, is sooner than you think.
Words out, its already affectin' the
north.
(very loud now)
We's gonna be free. Free. Free!
DR. NORTH
Shut up boy. Shut your confounded
jabber.
Dr. North raises the rifle at William's head.
WILLIAM
Why, I see that street paved with gold
already. And that mansion in the sky,
it's a waitin' for me.
EXT. PLANTATION/BARN - CONTINUOUS
A single blast echoes throughout the field.
CHARLOTTE
(screaming)
No.
Rosy tries to hold Charlotte back. She can't, Charlotte runs
toward the barn.
Dr. North and men exit the barn. North is covered with spots
of blood from head to shoe.
Charlotte runs to the barn entrance and sees William slumped
over dead. Williams hands are still tied to the ropes and
bound to the barn posts.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
(sobbing)
William.
Charlotte runs to Dr. North and beats on his chest.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
How could you? You murderer. Murderer!
She falls to her knees.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
(sobbing)
Murderer.
DR. NORTH
(to the field workers)
I want everyone of you to understand the
consequence of an attempt to escape.
I'll not stand for it.
(he turns and faces Charlotte
while speaking to Bart.)
Have them get themselves a real good look
and get them back to work.
(to Bart)
And then for cryin' out loud, get that
mess in there cleaned up. No supper
tonight. You here me Bart? No supper.
Dr. North walks to his horse and rides off.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - DAY
Aunt Marthy and a young black boy JORDY (7), are sitting on
her front porch. She's rocking in a chair. She sees that
Nat Whilding is riding on horseback toward her home.
AUNT MARTHY
Now, Jordy you better run along.
JORDY
How come I got to run along?
AUNT MARTHY
Because I said so.
She whacks Jordy on the behind.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Now git!
He runs off.
Nat Whilding steps off of his horse.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
What can I do yor for young man?
WHILDING
I came to talk to you about Charlotte.
AUNT MARTHY
What do you know about her?
WHILDING
First, I wanted to apologize.
AUNT MARTHY
Why would you need to apologize to me?
What have you done?
WHILDING
I was with her when North's men captured
her and brought her back to Dr. North.
AUNT MARTHY
I don't understand.
WHILDING
I had gone over to the Willis estate to
inquire about purchasing the property. I
found Charlotte wandering about the home.
I learned that she was the one Dr. North
had a reward after. She spoke about
running to one of the free states. We
got to talking and one thing led to
another. We spent the night together.
AUNT MARTHY
Do you know that Charlotte is with child?
WHILDING
Yes, Ma'am I do.
AUNT MARTHY
Then it must be your child.
WHILDING
Yes, Ma'am I believe it to be so.
Without speaking Aunt Marthy rises and turns to enter her
home.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
Please, I came to offer you my
assistance.
AUNT MARTHY
I've heard all I care to for one day.
Will you please go?
WHILDING
Wait! Here me out.
Aunt Marthy stops and reluctantly listens.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
Charlotte's in great danger. Dr. North
went crazy the other day and killed one
of his field workers. He thought that it
was he who had fathered the child.
AUNT MARTHY
It doesn't concern you now?
WHILDING
It does concern me, I feel somehow that
it's my fault that, that young man died.
AUNT MARTHY
There's nothing you can do. It's out of
your hands.
WHILDING
I'm offering to help you gain Charlotte's
release. I'll go to North myself.
AUNT MARTHY
What makes you think that Dr. North will
listen to you? I've offered him my home.
My words fell on deaf ears.
WHILDING
I understand.
AUNT MARTHY
Dr. North is a man beyond reason.
WHILDING
I know that as well. I'd like to beat
the man at his own game.
AUNT MARTHY
What is it that you had in mind?
WHILDING
I'm going to speak with Dr. North myself.
I'll make him an offer for that child.
An offer he can't refuse.
AUNT MARTHY
Selling children off for a price is
something that your kind has been doing
since before this country began. My
children have all been born under the
shameful hand of slavery. They've all
been sold off and their whereabouts
remain unknown to this day.
WHILDING
I know how you feel, but...
AUNT MARTHY
(interrupting)
How can you pretend to understand how I
feel?
WHILDING
I'm sorry you're right. How could I know
how you feel.
AUNT MARTHY
Good day sir.
Aunt Marthy enters her home.
Nat Whilding stands on the porch knowing he chose his last
words poorly.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S CORN FIELD - DAY
Four months later.
Aunt Marthy stands before a wagon loaded with her new crop.
On the wagon sit four black men, who had toiled in the field
over the crop. Now they sit with rifles at the ready.
The wagon drives off.
Tilly and Aunt Marthy follow after the wagon in Tilly's
buggy.
INT. TRADING POST - SAME DAY
Aunt Marthy's crop is loaded on a scale.
The CORN TRADER counts out some money and places it in Aunt
Marthy's hand.
Aunt Marthy and Tilly trade proud smiles.
EXT. TRADING POST - A LITTLE LATER/DAY
Aunt Marthy and Tilly walk back to the coach.
AUNT MARTHY
This is a day to remember. My very first
crop taken to market and sold. That's
the most money I've ever seen.
TILLY
And it's just the beginning.
AUNT MARTHY
I have something for you.
Aunt Marthy reaches into her pocket and pulls out fifty
dollars and hands it to Tilly.
TILLY
What's this for?
AUNT MARTHY
It's the money I owe you.
TILLY
You don't owe me anything, Martha.
AUNT MARTHY
You've got to take this money, Miss
Tilly. You just have to. I own it to
you and I want you to take it.
Tilly reluctantly takes the money.
TILLY
All right, Martha.
Aunt Marthy stops in front of a bank.
AUNT MARTHY
Hold on a moment.
Aunt Marthy looks inside the bank.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
Well, here goes.
TILLY
Don't worry Martha. Money only comes in
one color. Green.
Aunt Martha and Tilly begin to enter the bank.
AUNT MARTHY
Miss Tilly. Would you mind. You know,
if I do this on my own.
TILLY
I understand.
Tilly watches as Aunt Marthy enters the bank.
EXT. MISSISSIPPI RIVER BARGE DOCK - DAY
Nat Whilding walks down the dock and approaches a barge.
CREW MATES are scrubbing down the ship.
WHILDING
You there, could you fetch me Captain
Stone?
The crew mate tips his hat and disappears into the ships
cabin.
CAPTAIN STONE, a strong man with a white beard steps from the
cabin.
CAPTAIN STONE
What can I do for you?
WHILDING
I've come to speak to you about a private
matter.
CAPTAIN STONE
And who are you lad?
WHILDING
My name is Whilding.
CAPTAIN STONE
Oh, yes. I've been expecting you.
Captain Stone reaches out a hand and helps Whilding board the
barge.
The begin to enter the cabin.
CAPTAIN STONE
You've not mentioned this to anyone have
you?
WHILDING
Oh, no. It's completely a confidential
affair.
CAPTAIN STONE
Good. Let's go below.
Captain Stone and Whilding enter the cabin.
EXT. NORTH'S PLANTATION/FIELD - DAY
Charlotte is working in the field. She's about to give birth
to her child. Charlotte grabs her stomach.
CHARLOTTE
Not now. Just hold on till this evening.
Rosy takes notice. She runs to Charlotte aid. Charlotte
begins to go into labor right there in the field.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
It's time.
ROSY
I'm here for you. You just do as I say
and before you know it, it'll all be
over.
Charlotte takes Rosy's hand and cries out in labor pain.
This causes Bart to come over to investigate.
BART
What the hell's going on here?
ROSY
She's having a baby.
BART
Well, hurry it up. There's alot of work
to do today.
Bart walks away.
ROSY
It's gonna be alright.
Charlotte continues in labor as Rosy lends her a hand.
EXT. NORTH'S PLANTATION/FIELD - LATER SAME DAY
Charlotte holds her newborn child. Rosy looks on.
ROSY
It's a boy. You just gave birth to a new
baby boy. Whatcha planning on callin'
him?
CHARLOTTE
William. I'll name him William.
Charlotte watches Dr. North arrive. He makes his way to
Charlotte.
CHARLOTTE (CONT'D)
No. Keep him away from my baby.
Dr. North pushes Rosy to out of the way.
DR. NORTH
(to Rosy)
Get back to work.
Rosy sheepishly retreats from Charlotte's side.
He takes the new born child from Charlotte's arms.
CHARLOTTE
(wailing)
Don't take my child. Give me back my
child.
DR. NORTH
You could have had anything you desired.
CHARLOTTE
No, please don't take my baby.
DR. NORTH
I'll show you what it is to do without.
Dr. North walks away with the child. Charlotte wearily
stands and cries aloud.
CHARLOTTE
Noooooo...
She lunges at Dr. North and he knocks her away with a sharp
blow. She stands and lunges at him again. North slaps her
as if he's swatting at a helpless fly.
The baby cries aloud.
North hands the child to a white nurse who is waiting at his
coach.
Charlotte attacks North again and this time he whacks her
across the cheek with his cane. Charlotte falls unconscious.
Dr. North, nurse and child enter his coach.
North's coach rides off as Charlotte lay unconscious and
bleeding from her facial wound.
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE - DAY
Elizabeth is tending to Charlotte's newborn child.
EXT. NORTH'S ESTATE - CONTINUOUS
Nat Whilding arrives at North's home. He knocks at the door.
Dr. North answers.
WHILDING
I'm here for the child?
DR. NORTH
Yes, Whilding isn't it?
WHILDING
Yes, it is.
DR. NORTH
Come in won't you?
Whilding enters the home.
INT. NORTH'S ESTATE - CONTINUOUS
DR. NORTH
(calling out to Elizabeth)
Elizabeth, bring me that little brat.
Elizabeth brings the child to Dr. North.
WHILDING
This is the child?
The child has a light skin color.
DR. NORTH
I've changed my price. I want another
two hundred dollars. That, or no sale.
Take it or leave it.
WHILDING
I must say you do drive a hard bargain.
I'll have to pass on your request. I'm
sure there will be no battering over the
matter. In fact...
Whilding peels off a role of bills.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
We can take care of the matter right now.
Whilding hands the money over to Dr. North.
North gestures for Elizabeth to turn the child over to
Whilding.
DR. NORTH
I don't get your motivation. What's in
it for you?
WHILDING
I'm just acting as a middle man for the
purchaser of this child, whom wishes to
remain anonymous.
North counts out his money.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
You'll find that it's all there. Well,
it was nice doing business with you Dr.
North. I must be on my way.
DR. NORTH
Short and sweet, that's how I prefer my
business affairs. It was a pleasure.
WHILDING
More than you know Dr. North. Good day.
Whilding turns to go as Dr. North counts his money again.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S - LATER SAME DAY
Aunt Marthy is pulling loaves of fresh baked bread from the
oven. She sets down the hot pan and wipes her brow.
As she stands she notices Whilding coming up the steps with
child in hand.
He knocks at the door.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S - CONTINUOUS
The door opens and Whilding holds the child awkwardly.
AUNT MARTHY
What on earth?
WHILDING
I hope you've got plenty of room, because
you no longer don't have to live in this
home alone Aunty Marthy.
Aunt Marthy looks puzzled.
WHILDING
This is your grandchild. Charlotte's
son. He's a healthy baby boy.
AUNT MARTHY
Lord have mercy.
The child cries.
AUNT MARTHY
And he's a hungry baby as well.
WHILDING
His name is William.
Aunt Marthy takes the child into her arms.
AUNT MARTHY
(to the child)
How do you do William and welcome home.
(to Whilding)
How can I ever repay you?
WHILDING
No need Ma'am. No need.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Aunt Marthy enters the home with the child.
AUNT MARTHY
Won't you come in sir?
Whilding enters.
WHILDING
(abruptly)
I've made arrangements for Charlotte to
flee tonight.
AUNT MARTHY
No, she mustn't do that. I've been
saving every penny I have to offer Dr.
North.
WHILDING
He'll find out soon enough that you have
her child. Then, he'll never let her go.
AUNT MARTHY
But, it's too dangerous for her to risk
fleeing.
WHILDING
When Dr. North finds out that he's been
deceived concerning the circumstances of
you obtaining that child, Charlotte's
treatment on the plantation will only
worsen.
Whilding tips his hat and turns to leave.
WHILDING (CONT'D)
I've go to be going now. You take care
Aunty Marthy.
AUNT MARTHY
Mr. Whilding wait!
Whilding turns back.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
You have redeemed yourself on this day.
God bless you sir.
EXT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - STORMY NIGHT
The rain pounds hard on the roof.
INT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte has not fully recovered from the beating she has
received at the hands of Dr. North. She lay in a bundle of
hay. He bruised face is severely swollen.
Rosy and others tend to her wounds.
ROSY
(to the women)
We must all say a prayer for Charlotte.
For she is surely a brave young woman.
(to Charlotte)
You would have done William proud.
CHARLOTTE
If William would have listened to me, he
would still be alive.
ROSY
You can't be blaming yourself for what
has happened. The past is gone. William
rests in the arms of the Lord. If I was
to pray, I'd pray for Dr. North for one
day he'll answer to the Lord himself.
CHARLOTTE
I never want to hear that mans name again
as long as I live. Poor William, he
deserved so much better than he got.
ROSY
You tried to warn him. He was set in his
mind. Could you have taken the only
dream he ever had?
CHARLOTTE
No, no of course I wouldn't. I just wish
he was with me now. I'd feel so much
stronger. I would have something to
believe in, so much more to live for.
Rosy tries in vain to get her to stay. But, Charlotte has
made up her mind, she must go.
The young boy Jordy runs into the quarters.
ROSY
Can't you wait just a while more? Until
you're in better health?
CHARLOTTE
It's now or never for me.
ROSY
You can't go alone. Mr. Whilding, why he
must have been detained because of the
weather. Just hold out a little while
longer.
CHARLOTTE
I must be at the dock no later than eight
tonight or the ship will leave without
me. I must be on my way.
A prayer is said as they hold hands. Charlotte clutches her
necklace that Miss Willis had given her.
ROSY
Lord, guide Charlotte as she goes her
way. Be with her and give her the
strength she needs for her journey. Be
her guiding hand and trample under heel
all of your enemies.
All the women say Amen.
WOMEN
Amen.
Charlotte hugs all who are present.
ROSY
We'll miss you Charlotte.
CHARLOTTE
I'll always remember you Rosy.
ROSY
Please, be careful.
CHARLOTTE
Good-bye.
ROSY
Good-bye.
Charlotte runs into the rainy night.
EXT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte runs across the plantations field in the hard
driving rain.
Rosy appears at the barn door.
ROSY
Run, Charlotte. Run. Run for that sweet
crown of freedom.
Charlotte disappears into the stormy night.
INT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS
Rosy turns to Jordy.
ROSY
Run, Jordy. Go tell Aunt Marthy she's
gone. Tell her we couldn't stop her.
Hesitate for no one.
Jordy runs from the quarters into the rain.
EXT. PLANTATION GROUNDS - NIGHT
Jessie and a couple of guards spot someone fleeing across the
plantation grounds.
Its not clear if its Jordy or Charlotte that is spotted as
they make their way into the woods.
JESSIE
(yelling out to one of the
guards)
Run and tell Bart I just spotted one of
Ôem making their way into the woods.
(to the other guard)
Let's go.
The one guard races off in one direction and Jessie and the
other guard head off to pursue the fleeing subject.
INT. BART'S QUARTERS - STORMY NIGHT
Bart and other farm hands are drinking heavily and playing
cards. Bart's drunk, losing his money and in a viscous mood.
BART
That's the fourth hand in a row. Deal
Ôem out again.
One of the card players deals another hand.
Word is swiftly brought to him. The guard races into the
room.
GUARD
(entering rapidly)
We just spotted one of Ôem fleein'
towards Willow Creek.
BART
Let's go boys. We got work to do.
Bart grabs for his rifle.
BART (CONT'D)
I feel like killin' one of Ôem tonight.
EXT. PLANTATION GROUNDS - NIGHT
Bart and a band of men and several blood hounds race across
the plantation grounds in pursuit of the runaway slave.
EXT. PLANTATION GROUNDS - NIGHT
Jessie races through the woods in pursuit.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte is fearful and the rain doesn't help her manage her
way through the bramble.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Jordy runs toward Aunt Marthy's home.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Bart's hounds picks up a trail.
BART
We got Ôem now boys.
Bart and his men pick up their pace.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Jessie races through the brush.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte running wildly, her necklace snags on a bush limb
and it falls to the ground. She frantically attempts to find
it in the mud.
Charlotte hears the dogs closing in on her. She begins to
run again.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
The storm grows more intense.
Jordy makes his way to the country road.
EXT. MISSISSIPPI RIVER/SHIPYARD DOCK - CONTINUOUS
The ropes that hold the ship in place pull the ship about in
the stormy water.
Captain Stone's ship is being tossed violently against the
dock.
INT. CAPTAIN STONE'S SHIP - CONTINUOUS
One of his crew members speaks.
CREW MEMBER
What are we going to do now sir?
Captain Stone looks at his pocket watch.
CAPTAIN STONE
The storm is gaining strength. We can't
hold much longer.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S HOME - STORMY NIGHT
Bart and his men step onto the country road. They spot Jordy
as he runs at full speed toward Aunt Marthy's home.
BART
There he is.
Bart takes aim with his rifle as the boy continues to run.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Aunt Marthy is sitting by the fireplace and rocking William
in her arms. She hears the sound of a single gunshot and is
startled by it.
Aunt Marthy places the child in a crib and steps out onto her
front porch to investigate.
INT. WOMEN'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
The sound of a single gunshot is heard.
Rosy and the women pray aloud.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Charlotte hears the sound of a single gunshot. She stops in
her tracks and then keeps on running.
EXT. WOODS - CONTINUOUS
Jessie continues to give pursuit.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Jordy staggers up the steps to Aunt Marthy's home. He falls
down with one bullet hole in his back.
AUNT MARTHY
(screaming)
Jordy!
Aunt Marthy runs to Jordy's aid.
Bart and his men run to Aunt Marthy's gate. They see that
they've just shot and killed a little boy. No longer are
their faces filled with the desire to hunt and to kill.
JORDY
(dying he whispers to Aunt
Marthy)
Rosy tried to stop her, but she couldn't.
Shoe's gone!
Jordy dies.
Weeping, Aunt Marty picks up the boy and carries him into her
home.
INT. CAPTAIN STONE'S SHIP - NIGHT
The storm is growing.
CAPTAIN STONE
(to his mate)
We can't hold off any longer. Prepare to
shove off.
(to one of his crewmen)
Man the lines. We're pulling out.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. OLD RIVER BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS
The muddy water rages below as the rain continues to fall.
The chase continues on as an exhausted Charlotte reaches the
old river bridge. She begins to cross over.
Jessie stops at the edge of the bridge. He spots her.
JESSIE
You!
OTHER GUARD
Kill her.
Smiling he begins to take aim at her with his rifle.
JESSIE (CONT'D)
I'm gonna enjoy this.
Charlotte climbs over the edge of the bridge and looks down
at the water that is rapidly racing below.
She jumps just as Jessie gets off a shot. BLAM.
OTHER GUARD
I think you got her.
Jessie and the guard run to the edge of the bridge and look
down into the vastness of the dark flowing waters. The
rushing of the rapid flowing river is all that can be heard.
JESSIE
I'd say that's one lesson learnt.
The men head back toward the plantation.
EXT. MISSISSIPPI RIVER - DAY
Charlotte fights to stay afloat of the raging waters.
Finally, her body goes under and is not seen again.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - DAY
Five Years Later.
It's winter, late December and a cold cloudy day.
Snow is falling, which leaves a white layer of snow
blanketing the ground.
Young WILLIAM (5), Charlotte's son runs along the road that
leads to Aunt Marthy's home. He's carrying a letter in his
hands.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - DAY
Some trays of fresh baked cookies line a counter.
Aunt Marthy tugs her worn coat up just a little tighter
around her neck. She tosses another log on the fire and
steps to a window looking up at the gray sky.
AUNT MARTHY
I do declare, it's been at least a week
since we last saw any sunlight. When
will this weather clear and bring us some
warmth to thaw these aching bones.
EXT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Young William comes running up to Aunt Marthy's home. As he
approaches the gate he calls out to her.
YOUNG WILLIAM
(yelling out)
Aunt Marthy, I got a letter for you.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Aunt Marthy steps to the porch.
AUNT MARTHY
Well, bring it up to me boy. Lets have a
look and see what it is.
William runs up to the door and Aunt Marthy gives him a hug.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
You're going to catch your death of cold.
They step inside the home.
INT. AUNT MARTHY'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Aunt Marthy takes the letter from William and she hands him a
fresh baked cookie.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
You set over by that fire and warm
yourself.
Aunt Marthy looks down at Williams feet. She notices that
his shoes are worn.
AUNT MARTHY (CONT'D)
We'll have to see to it that you get
yourself a new pair of shoes.
Aunt Marthy looks at the letter. She notices that it's
postmark from Boston, Massachusetts.
AUNT MARTHY
Boston, Massachusetts? Who in the world
could this be from?
Aunt Marthy opens the letter and Charlottes silver cross
necklace falls into her hands. Simultaneously the sun shines
down on the cross, causing it to twinkle.
Aunt Marthy looks up out the window and the sun peaks through
the clearing sky. Her eyes fill with tears.
AUNT MARTHY
I guess it's gonna be a good day after
all.
Aunt Marthy takes a seat in her rocking chair and takes the
letter out of the envelope and begins to read.
CHARLOTTE (VO)
My dear Aunt Marthy, I know it's been
many years since you heard from me. I'm
sure you must have worried yourself sick
wondering whatever happened to me. I
would have written sooner, but I was
afraid of any repercussions falling on
you after my escape.
Aunt Marthy wipes the tears from her eyes. William jumps up
in her lap. Aunt Marthy continues to read the letter.
CHARLOTTE (VO)(CONT'D)
How is William? He must be a fine young
boy. I long for the day that I can see
him again. Well, I finally made did it.
I found my freedom. It's beautiful here
in Boston. I met a wonderful women her
name is Miss Emily Post. She's a fine
outstanding citizen and I've learned so
much from her. We've worked endlessly on
a new bill called the free slave act,
which was passed unanimously at the end
of the war between the states.
Charlottes voice fades.
CHARLOTTE (VO)(CONT'D)
Aunt Marthy, you would be amazed if you
heard the stories of our people that made
their way north and out from those chains
of bondage. There are endless numbers of
brave souls that finally found that sweet
crown of freedom that had so desperately
eluded them for so long.
The song, No More Auction Block begins to fade in sung by a
lone fame baritone without any music accompaniment.
ROLL ON SCREEN:
Dr. James North suffered terrible
economic hardship during the war between
the North and the South. He spent much
of his dwindling fortune trying to
apprehend Charlotte and to no avail.
North's health deteriorated rapidly
thereafter and he met his demise before
the wars end. Dr. North died alone. No
one attended his funeral service. Nobody
except his sister Tilly and Aunt Marthy.
Aunt Marthy lived for almost thirty more
years and died at the age of ninety-
eight. At the end of the civil war
North's estate was pillaged by marauders
and burned to the ground. His land was
sold at the same auction house where he
himself had tried to sell Aunt Marthy.
Aunt Marthy purchased several acres of
Dr. North's prime real estate. Where
once North's statuesque manor had been,
Aunt Marthy's raised crops of corn,
cotton and sugarcane. Charlotte returned
to Garyville, Louisiana when she learned
about the death of Dr. North. She later
married and had two more children, Joseph
and Elizabeth. Charlotte did after all,
get to raise her son William who later on
in life ran the estate of his deceased
grandmother, Miss Martha Willis.
FADE OUT.
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