Snowy River: The McGregor Saga (1993) s01e08 Episode Script
Stepping Out
[Narrator.]
Previously on Snowy River, The McGregor Saga.
When thieves steal Kathleen's heifer she takes matters into her own hands.
You wouldn't shoot a man in cold blood.
You can take that chance if you'd like.
What did you do? [Narrator.]
And Anita takes her romance with Luke a step further.
I wouldn't take kindly to be made a fool of.
Whatever I make of you, it won't be a fool.
No that's alright.
[Narrator.]
What Colin wants could change Emily's life forever.
What do you want me to do? I want you to marry me.
[Narrator.]
The Blackwoods want Kathleen's land, and they'll stop at nothing to get it.
Terrible thing, disease.
It will undoubtedly drive the poor woman off her land.
Undoubtedly.
(chuckles) [Narrator.]
Jack knows who poisoned Kathleen's cattle, and now they want him dead.
Now we just want the old man.
(galloping) (grunt) Danni, Kathleen, it's Matt.
(soft Western music) (soft music) Take your coat off Frank, we're a man short.
Are you mad? I figured that's why you were here, to do you share.
I'm here to keep an eye on things.
Yeah? I'd get rid of the Chinese for a start.
The Chinese boys earn their pay Frank.
They're not our sort Luke, and they can't be trusted.
And you keep your coat on and you keep your distance.
And you hand out the old thrashin to keep 'em on their toes.
And that's how you earn your share? Yeah.
Well I'm glad to know you're mine Frank.
You'll learn Luke.
Everybody starts off wet behind the ears Listen Frank, you didn't stake me in this mine your daddy did, so you pull your weight around here from now on or your share's going to amount to 20% of nothing, you understand? Jumped up little Yankee twerp.
If he knew what we've got planned for him I hope you weren't too specific about that Frank.
I'm going to take the mine from him, and everything else he's got.
You'll be wiser to try to make friends with him.
I'm not frightened of Luke McGregor.
Then you should be, that boy is capable of anything.
Besides, I'm gonna keep an open mind about Luke, he may be more useful than I thought.
Matt McGregor has his eye on Kathleen O'Neil, he's taking her to the ball.
So what if he is? Is it stupidity Frank, or is it just laziness? Think boy, the land.
If Matt McGregor gets Kathleen O'Neil, he also gets the land, he may even know about the planned rail line through it.
You think I'm going to stand by and let that happen? We don't even know if the railway's coming through for sure.
Progress Frank, it's inevitable.
You really are no help to me at all, are you? If you were lame, we could have you carried, if you were blind, I could buy you a stick, but what can I do with a fool? I try to please you, and what do I get in return? Nothing.
Get out.
(dramatic music) (door slam) (cow mooing) Mr.
McGregor's coming mom.
I'll be out in a minute.
He's bringing a heifer.
It's just a visit from our neighbor Michael, not the Duke of Wellington.
Go and say hello.
Yes mom.
G'day Matt.
Jack.
Found this on my land, happens to be wearing your brand.
(chuckling) You're not gonna charge us for the grass, are you Matt? Well I just might, it's a hard life you know.
Michael.
Hello Mr.
McGregor.
Kathleen.
Matt.
I'm just returning your property.
That's very nice of you, thank you.
Mm, the least I could do.
Michael I think we better get that pumped fixed otherwise we'll be chewing dry tea leaves.
Will you come in? Ah thanks, I can't stay, but well I was hoping you'd come over for dinner tonight.
That'd be lovely.
Good.
Okay, I'll make it easy for you, try saying this, yes Rob, I'd love you to take me to the ball.
Since the ball's being held here at Balmoral I don't see how anyone could actually take me, I'll already be here.
If you're not gonna give me a straight answer It's not that simple, father's the host and I'm the mistress of Balmoral.
That's responsibility.
Well you can't be at the ball without an escort.
I am thinking about it.
You've had two weeks to think about it.
Is it true your father's taking Kathleen O'Neil? You're doing it again.
Doing what? Changing the subject.
Yes or no Victoria? Well who else asked ya? That's not a question a gentleman asks a lady.
Someone your father approves of? Some chinless wonder? Or perhaps a certain Yankee cousin with more luck than he deserves.
Rob, don't be boring, I haven't said no have I? (galloping) I've missed you.
Oh heavens.
I don't see why we have to meet like this.
People are talking.
Perhaps we should see less of each other, for a while anyway.
Is that what you want? No.
What do you want? Discretion.
Can I come to dinner tonight? Herbert would choke on his mutton.
Don't say no.
(chuckle) How can I refuse? [Danni.]
I always feel silly in dresses like this.
Oh nonsense it looks beautiful on you.
I don't have to dance, do I? Why, don't you like dancing? I'm not very good at it.
Are you? I don't think much of it at your age, especially when clod-hopping boys trod all over my feet.
Well that's the trouble, I tread on theirs.
(laughing) There, all pinned.
Would you like me to sew it for you? Aw, better let Mrs.
Connie or she'll sulk.
Oh, we can't have the housekeeper sulking, can we? Mrs.
O'Neil? Yes? Thanks.
It was my pleasure Danni.
It was nice having you here for dinner.
I enjoyed it too.
Goodnight.
Goodnight.
Where are the boys? Oh Colin's going back to town, Rob's out with the horses.
Oh I see, so we're all alone? (laughing) You weren't counting on having a chaperone by any chance? I've managed without for some time.
It made difference having you here tonight.
Yes, you asked me over for dinner and I end up pinning your daughter's ball gown.
Well you made both of us very happy, thank you.
I'm glad, I'm very fond of Danni.
She's very nervous about the ball, and excited.
You know that's half the fun of it, anticipating.
Scared that someone will ask you to dance, scared that they won't, your heart beating that much faster.
Steady on it, she's only a child.
Ah, not for much longer.
And how will you deal with that Mr.
McGregor? I'll tackle that problem when it happens.
You were close to the McGregors Anita, they must've confided in you.
Did my father ever mention anything about his agreement with Matt? What agreement? Over Langara.
Well he did say something.
That he owned half right? Yes.
Luke, I came back to Patterson's Ridge because of a man, Matt McGregor.
You don't seem surprised.
I don't listen to their gossip, but sometimes you can't help but hear it.
Then you probably heard I was in love with him.
Was.
You said was.
It's always him.
It's always Matt McGregor.
I'm so sorry.
Try to understand.
The only thing I understand is this.
Warm yourselves by the fire while I Oh, Herbert.
Good evening everyone.
I'm sure you know Luke McGregor? If you'll excuse me, I think I should be going.
I'll see you out.
Excuse me.
Please.
Well I never.
It's true, she saw them herself with her own eyes.
Cozy as anything in front of the fire.
And were they? Cold as you like.
Don't tell me they weren't about to.
Who would've thought it? First the uncle, then the nephew.
Miss Blackwood, was there something? No thank you, I've changed my mind.
Have I got some juicy scandal for you.
I don't want to hear it.
Somebody beat me to it, eh? Luke, and Anita Hargraves.
(laughing) The young dog.
He'll be envy of every man in Patterson's Ridge.
I even think dear daddy had his eyes on delectable Anita.
You're disgusting.
Well it explains why Luke hasn't asked you to the ball.
That is what you've been waiting for isn't it? That's none of your business, I don't believe these rumors.
A princess with not a prince in sight.
You know, you've always been the spoiled brat of this family, I'm glad see you get hurt.
Let go.
Time to stop being so choosy Victoria, take what's on offer, and marry well.
Of course when I'm master of Balmoral, there'll be nothing in the pot for you.
You'll be master of nothing when father cuts you out of the will.
Why would he? You are stupid Frank.
Do you honestly believe he'd trust you with Balmoral? He can't trust you with anything.
He'll cut you out and he'll leave it to me.
Balmoral will be mine, and with that kind of money I'll have Luke McGregor too if I choose.
(dramatic music) (galloping) Victoria.
Luke.
Don't you have something to say to me? What am I supposed to say? That it's not true.
If you want the answer then I need the question.
Anita Hargraves.
You and her, is it true? Luke it's horrible.
The whole town's talking about you and that woman.
I won't discuss a lady's reputation, not even with you Victoria.
Then put the lie to the rumors and take me to the ball.
It is true.
I'm sorry.
I won't ever let you hurt me again.
(galloping) (neighing) Whoa, easy.
(neighing) [Victoria.]
Fine looking horse.
Yes, it's from good stock.
Daddy's bought a new Arab stallion, you should see it.
Well actually I was going to ride over to your place later to see ya.
And I've saved you the ride.
I've made up my mind about the ball.
I want you to know there's no hard feelings.
No hard feelings? Well, you've obviously had your mind on somebody else.
And I reckon a fellow ought to know when he's not wanted, so I invited Amelia Miran.
Oh.
So don't feel like you have to let me down easy.
No, you and Amelia, I think that's splendid, perfect.
I'm sure we'll all have a wonderful time.
Yeah, I'm sure we will.
(neighing) Don't let me keep you from your horses.
(soft music) I've got a question father.
I want to know where I stand.
Where you stand? Balmoral.
My inheritance.
I've already made my will Frank.
And you wouldn't change it, cut me out? Do you think I should? Please be straight with me.
Balmoral will go to the hands most capable of keeping it, and seeing it increase.
That's not an answer.
Well it's an answer all right.
It may not be the answer you want.
(soft music) Listen.
(music in the distance) It's them.
The musicians for the ball.
Ya.
(galloping) (lively music) (light, upbeat music) (applause) (slow music) Excuse me, may I? Thank you.
(slow music) No thanks.
(children chattering) Danni.
Where have you been? To the kitchen.
Gingerbread, do you want some? Well? I'm going inside.
But they're dancing inside.
(applause) Danni.
Danni? (slow music) Excuse me miss, may I have the honor? Don't muck about Colin.
Come on then.
(applause) No thanks.
Yes.
Amelia will be wondering where you are.
I thought Luke was your escort this evening? Where is he? I don't know, and I don't really care.
But didn't he come I don't think you have any right to be asking questions.
Not after the way you behaved.
Me? Oh shut up Rob.
Just ask me to dance.
(light music) Let's try this one.
Anita.
Oliver, good evening.
So glad you could come.
This is splendid.
Luke.
Mr.
Blackwood.
(sigh) Your place is with your guests.
I can't go back in there.
You are my daughter and you are the mistress of Balmoral.
You must do your duty.
Now, perhaps you can see Luke for what he really is.
Come.
(upbeat music) Luke, I think I need a cool drink.
Luke, can I have a word with you? Sure.
If you'll excuse me.
Interesting seeing Matthew and Anita together in the same room after so many years.
Yeah, interesting.
Is that what you wanted to talk about? Well they were such close friends.
Anita, Matthew, and your father.
I knew that.
I should imagine that there are very few secrets among themselves.
My father always said that he and McGregor had an agreement over Langara.
Well your father's dead Luke, and it'll be your word against Matt's.
Unless there was a witness.
Anita, it is possibility.
Luke, let me make a suggestion, make the most of your opportunity.
If you're going to ask Anita, do it in front of your uncle, when his guard's down, in front of a witness.
The element of surprise.
I don't believe this, what are you helping him for? We want Langara for ourselves.
Think it through Frank, the bank owns half of Langara.
If Luke owns the other half.
Then McGregor owns nothing.
And very soon I will own Luke McGregor.
Let's not miss the fun.
(applause) McGregor.
Matt McGregor.
I think it's time we brought our quarrel out into the open.
Yes, well this is neither the time nor the place.
My father always told me that he was half owner of Langara, but that he could never prove it.
Well that's because it isn't true.
Yeah? Well there's one person in this room whom you both trusted.
Who could say who was lying in this situation.
Anita? Tell them, tell them what you told me.
Come on you're going too far Luke.
Anita, tell them.
Your father told me exactly what he told you.
That's a lie.
Watch your mouth.
She's lying Luke.
Hey, hey.
Luke.
If you can't behave like a gentleman I'm going to have to ask you to leave my house.
I've said all I have to say for the moment.
Anita? Ladies and gentlemen, perhaps we could all go on dancing.
(upbeat music) Perhaps we should leave.
What? Look like we're running away? No.
We came here to dance.
I want you to come with me.
I can't do that Luke.
We came together and we're going to leave together alright? No we're not you used me.
Come with me.
Please don't make a scene.
Take your hands off my sister.
Is there some trouble here? No Oliver, no trouble at all.
Gentlemen, would you show Mr.
McGregor to the door? Get your hands off me.
You'll be sorry you did this.
Would you care to compose yourself my dear? I'm sorry about that.
Oh, I'm sorry this unfortunate incident had to take place in my home.
I suspect it's time for me to return to San Francisco.
But you belong here Anita.
In Patterson's Ridge? I'm beginning to doubt it.
No.
No I mean here.
At Balmoral.
I don't understand.
You've seen London, Paris, New York.
I'll bet my last penny your heart has never left these mountains.
These mountains have a power.
If you're born here, raised here, they'll never let you go.
Stop searching Anita, the world can't give you what you want.
It's here.
Come home.
The grandest lady should have the grandest house, the grandest life, and a man who can give them to her, not a boy, a man.
(gunshot) Oh! You've lost a lot of blood, and there could be some fever.
I'll return tomorrow and change the dressing.
Thank you.
I should go too, Herbert's waiting for me.
I'll come by tomorrow, take care Oliver.
Goodbye Anita.
Goodnight Victoria.
Thank you.
How is he doc? Fortunate.
Luckily I was able to get the bullet out.
Bad business Oliver.
Any idea who did it? No.
I think I can answer your question.
I found this outside.
What is it? A spent cartridge from a revolver.
A six shooter as our American friend calls it.
What's going on here? We'll have to question him, no doubt he did it.
Where's your proof Frank? The cartridge.
There's only one gun in the mountain that takes bullets like that.
Did you come to the ball armed? Why should I answer your questions? Because someone tried to kill Oliver Blackwood tonight.
I brought my Colt but I left it beneath the seat of my buggy.
Can anyone vouch for ya after you left the ball? No.
Haven't you heard enough? Did you shoot Oliver Blackwood? No.
(scoff) Well we're going to have to lock you up until we can get a hold of the trooper.
Rob, you keep an eye on him.
I think I might help.
We wouldn't want him getting away now would we? In here, and don't try to get away.
He's a suspect Frank.
He's not guilty until the magistrate says so.
I didn't do this.
Now listen to me, he's our responsibility and that means he stays in one piece, okay? (scoff) Dad, is it true what they're saying? Is it Luke? Well it seems that way love.
You don't believe it do you? I don't want to.
Anyway, it's up to he law now.
Colin would mind taking Danni home, it's getting late.
Of course.
Kathleen and Michael have already left.
Luke wouldn't do something like that, would he mom? Let's talk about it in the morning Michael, it's late.
Off to bed.
Goodnight mom.
Goodnight.
Goodnight Mr.
Kelly.
Goodnight lad.
The boy will be having nightmares.
You didn't answer his question.
I don't know Jack.
If Luke was fighting mad, first of all with the McGregors and then with Oliver, except, it's not Luke to play the assassin.
Face to face, that's Luke's style, even when he's wrong.
I think you've got something there.
But the gun Jack, the bullet was fired from his gun.
You see, that's why I've got me doubts.
Blackwood's still alive.
When Luke fires that Colt of his, he don't miss.
After I sent Luke on his way, I brought Anita in here.
More than that I can't tell you.
If he was going to shoot anyone tonight, it would've been a McGregor.
Did you find the gun? Where he said it was, under the seat of the buggy.
Well then.
Anyone could've used it.
You get some rest Oliver, I'll see you in the morning.
I'll show you out.
Mr.
McGregor? Is there a chance Luke's innocent? Well what do you think? I love my father, and I want to see whoever did this brought to justice.
But Luke is not a murderer, believe me.
Goodnight.
If we're going to be here all night, I'm getting something to eat.
Well don't hurry back Frank.
What do you want? I brought some blankets.
He'll catch his death of cold in there.
Save the hangman the job.
(chuckles) Could you open the door please? Hang on, hang on.
What are you looking for Frank? Guns.
Grow up.
Luke move away from the door.
Um, I'd appreciate it if you didn't listen.
(neighing) Go and feed your face Frank.
I'd keep an eye on them in there Rob, you never know what they might be doing.
I thought you'd be cold.
Yeah.
You know I didn't do this right? I know you didn't.
Thanks for the blankets.
That's all right.
I'll bring breakfast in the morning.
Victoria thank you.
Rob? Thank you, goodnight.
(whistling) Do you have to whistle? Is there a law against it? I wouldn't be making jokes in your position Luke.
What would you being doing in my position Rob? I don't know, praying? Why don't you go grab a meal Rob? I've eaten.
Well then go back to Langar and get some sleep, I'll hold the fort.
Sure, and then while I'm not here, Luke makes a break for it and he gets shot trying to escape.
(chuckles) I'm just trying to do yo favor.
(chuckles) Well don't bother.
I'll return the favor though, why don't you go to bed? And then he makes a break for it and then he doesn't get shot, he gets away.
What kind of an idiot you think I am? One that can't be trusted.
Same goes for you McGregor.
Hey, for what it's worth I don't trust either of you.
As a matter of interest, where did you find the spent bullet? On the veranda outside my father's study.
I'm coming back, so don't get any ideas.
(whistling) You're looking better Oliver.
For a man who's been shot you mean.
Is that the gun that did it? Well it's Luke's gun.
You ever handled a Colt before? No, but I know the gun by reputation, naturally.
Well they're not common in these parts, that's why it's so easy to lay the blame with Luke.
Now this being a revolver, each time you cock the hammer it spins the next bullet into line with the firing pin.
And the spent cartridge stays in the chamber.
Mm, yet Frank told Robert he found the cartridge out on the veranda.
Odd isn't it? Very odd.
Frank, your father wants to see you.
Come in Frank.
Matt has convinced me that all possible charges against Luke McGregor should be dropped.
Somebody else pulled the trigger.
Well I'm not convinced.
If you'll excuse me.
We don't want to see an innocent man hang, do we Frank? I just want to get whoever did it.
Matt's been using his head, I suggest we do the same thing.
We're looking for a man who has a grudge against me.
I won't pretend I'm the most popular man in Patterson's Ridge.
You've outsmarted most of them.
I was shot by someone who didn't understand the weapon he was using, someone who didn't know that the spent cartridge stays inside the gun, and someone whose hand was shaking so much he couldn't shoot straight even from 20 feet away.
What are you going to do? Well I haven't cut you out of my will, yet.
If you've got the guts to try to put a bullet in me, who knows, maybe you've got the strength to hang onto this land.
But I wouldn't try it again if I were you.
There you go.
Did you get the one who did it? Well I proved you didn't.
Well then I have to thank you for that.
But uh, doesn't change a thing.
I didn't think it would.
Giddy up.
(soft music) (folksy music)
Previously on Snowy River, The McGregor Saga.
When thieves steal Kathleen's heifer she takes matters into her own hands.
You wouldn't shoot a man in cold blood.
You can take that chance if you'd like.
What did you do? [Narrator.]
And Anita takes her romance with Luke a step further.
I wouldn't take kindly to be made a fool of.
Whatever I make of you, it won't be a fool.
No that's alright.
[Narrator.]
What Colin wants could change Emily's life forever.
What do you want me to do? I want you to marry me.
[Narrator.]
The Blackwoods want Kathleen's land, and they'll stop at nothing to get it.
Terrible thing, disease.
It will undoubtedly drive the poor woman off her land.
Undoubtedly.
(chuckles) [Narrator.]
Jack knows who poisoned Kathleen's cattle, and now they want him dead.
Now we just want the old man.
(galloping) (grunt) Danni, Kathleen, it's Matt.
(soft Western music) (soft music) Take your coat off Frank, we're a man short.
Are you mad? I figured that's why you were here, to do you share.
I'm here to keep an eye on things.
Yeah? I'd get rid of the Chinese for a start.
The Chinese boys earn their pay Frank.
They're not our sort Luke, and they can't be trusted.
And you keep your coat on and you keep your distance.
And you hand out the old thrashin to keep 'em on their toes.
And that's how you earn your share? Yeah.
Well I'm glad to know you're mine Frank.
You'll learn Luke.
Everybody starts off wet behind the ears Listen Frank, you didn't stake me in this mine your daddy did, so you pull your weight around here from now on or your share's going to amount to 20% of nothing, you understand? Jumped up little Yankee twerp.
If he knew what we've got planned for him I hope you weren't too specific about that Frank.
I'm going to take the mine from him, and everything else he's got.
You'll be wiser to try to make friends with him.
I'm not frightened of Luke McGregor.
Then you should be, that boy is capable of anything.
Besides, I'm gonna keep an open mind about Luke, he may be more useful than I thought.
Matt McGregor has his eye on Kathleen O'Neil, he's taking her to the ball.
So what if he is? Is it stupidity Frank, or is it just laziness? Think boy, the land.
If Matt McGregor gets Kathleen O'Neil, he also gets the land, he may even know about the planned rail line through it.
You think I'm going to stand by and let that happen? We don't even know if the railway's coming through for sure.
Progress Frank, it's inevitable.
You really are no help to me at all, are you? If you were lame, we could have you carried, if you were blind, I could buy you a stick, but what can I do with a fool? I try to please you, and what do I get in return? Nothing.
Get out.
(dramatic music) (door slam) (cow mooing) Mr.
McGregor's coming mom.
I'll be out in a minute.
He's bringing a heifer.
It's just a visit from our neighbor Michael, not the Duke of Wellington.
Go and say hello.
Yes mom.
G'day Matt.
Jack.
Found this on my land, happens to be wearing your brand.
(chuckling) You're not gonna charge us for the grass, are you Matt? Well I just might, it's a hard life you know.
Michael.
Hello Mr.
McGregor.
Kathleen.
Matt.
I'm just returning your property.
That's very nice of you, thank you.
Mm, the least I could do.
Michael I think we better get that pumped fixed otherwise we'll be chewing dry tea leaves.
Will you come in? Ah thanks, I can't stay, but well I was hoping you'd come over for dinner tonight.
That'd be lovely.
Good.
Okay, I'll make it easy for you, try saying this, yes Rob, I'd love you to take me to the ball.
Since the ball's being held here at Balmoral I don't see how anyone could actually take me, I'll already be here.
If you're not gonna give me a straight answer It's not that simple, father's the host and I'm the mistress of Balmoral.
That's responsibility.
Well you can't be at the ball without an escort.
I am thinking about it.
You've had two weeks to think about it.
Is it true your father's taking Kathleen O'Neil? You're doing it again.
Doing what? Changing the subject.
Yes or no Victoria? Well who else asked ya? That's not a question a gentleman asks a lady.
Someone your father approves of? Some chinless wonder? Or perhaps a certain Yankee cousin with more luck than he deserves.
Rob, don't be boring, I haven't said no have I? (galloping) I've missed you.
Oh heavens.
I don't see why we have to meet like this.
People are talking.
Perhaps we should see less of each other, for a while anyway.
Is that what you want? No.
What do you want? Discretion.
Can I come to dinner tonight? Herbert would choke on his mutton.
Don't say no.
(chuckle) How can I refuse? [Danni.]
I always feel silly in dresses like this.
Oh nonsense it looks beautiful on you.
I don't have to dance, do I? Why, don't you like dancing? I'm not very good at it.
Are you? I don't think much of it at your age, especially when clod-hopping boys trod all over my feet.
Well that's the trouble, I tread on theirs.
(laughing) There, all pinned.
Would you like me to sew it for you? Aw, better let Mrs.
Connie or she'll sulk.
Oh, we can't have the housekeeper sulking, can we? Mrs.
O'Neil? Yes? Thanks.
It was my pleasure Danni.
It was nice having you here for dinner.
I enjoyed it too.
Goodnight.
Goodnight.
Where are the boys? Oh Colin's going back to town, Rob's out with the horses.
Oh I see, so we're all alone? (laughing) You weren't counting on having a chaperone by any chance? I've managed without for some time.
It made difference having you here tonight.
Yes, you asked me over for dinner and I end up pinning your daughter's ball gown.
Well you made both of us very happy, thank you.
I'm glad, I'm very fond of Danni.
She's very nervous about the ball, and excited.
You know that's half the fun of it, anticipating.
Scared that someone will ask you to dance, scared that they won't, your heart beating that much faster.
Steady on it, she's only a child.
Ah, not for much longer.
And how will you deal with that Mr.
McGregor? I'll tackle that problem when it happens.
You were close to the McGregors Anita, they must've confided in you.
Did my father ever mention anything about his agreement with Matt? What agreement? Over Langara.
Well he did say something.
That he owned half right? Yes.
Luke, I came back to Patterson's Ridge because of a man, Matt McGregor.
You don't seem surprised.
I don't listen to their gossip, but sometimes you can't help but hear it.
Then you probably heard I was in love with him.
Was.
You said was.
It's always him.
It's always Matt McGregor.
I'm so sorry.
Try to understand.
The only thing I understand is this.
Warm yourselves by the fire while I Oh, Herbert.
Good evening everyone.
I'm sure you know Luke McGregor? If you'll excuse me, I think I should be going.
I'll see you out.
Excuse me.
Please.
Well I never.
It's true, she saw them herself with her own eyes.
Cozy as anything in front of the fire.
And were they? Cold as you like.
Don't tell me they weren't about to.
Who would've thought it? First the uncle, then the nephew.
Miss Blackwood, was there something? No thank you, I've changed my mind.
Have I got some juicy scandal for you.
I don't want to hear it.
Somebody beat me to it, eh? Luke, and Anita Hargraves.
(laughing) The young dog.
He'll be envy of every man in Patterson's Ridge.
I even think dear daddy had his eyes on delectable Anita.
You're disgusting.
Well it explains why Luke hasn't asked you to the ball.
That is what you've been waiting for isn't it? That's none of your business, I don't believe these rumors.
A princess with not a prince in sight.
You know, you've always been the spoiled brat of this family, I'm glad see you get hurt.
Let go.
Time to stop being so choosy Victoria, take what's on offer, and marry well.
Of course when I'm master of Balmoral, there'll be nothing in the pot for you.
You'll be master of nothing when father cuts you out of the will.
Why would he? You are stupid Frank.
Do you honestly believe he'd trust you with Balmoral? He can't trust you with anything.
He'll cut you out and he'll leave it to me.
Balmoral will be mine, and with that kind of money I'll have Luke McGregor too if I choose.
(dramatic music) (galloping) Victoria.
Luke.
Don't you have something to say to me? What am I supposed to say? That it's not true.
If you want the answer then I need the question.
Anita Hargraves.
You and her, is it true? Luke it's horrible.
The whole town's talking about you and that woman.
I won't discuss a lady's reputation, not even with you Victoria.
Then put the lie to the rumors and take me to the ball.
It is true.
I'm sorry.
I won't ever let you hurt me again.
(galloping) (neighing) Whoa, easy.
(neighing) [Victoria.]
Fine looking horse.
Yes, it's from good stock.
Daddy's bought a new Arab stallion, you should see it.
Well actually I was going to ride over to your place later to see ya.
And I've saved you the ride.
I've made up my mind about the ball.
I want you to know there's no hard feelings.
No hard feelings? Well, you've obviously had your mind on somebody else.
And I reckon a fellow ought to know when he's not wanted, so I invited Amelia Miran.
Oh.
So don't feel like you have to let me down easy.
No, you and Amelia, I think that's splendid, perfect.
I'm sure we'll all have a wonderful time.
Yeah, I'm sure we will.
(neighing) Don't let me keep you from your horses.
(soft music) I've got a question father.
I want to know where I stand.
Where you stand? Balmoral.
My inheritance.
I've already made my will Frank.
And you wouldn't change it, cut me out? Do you think I should? Please be straight with me.
Balmoral will go to the hands most capable of keeping it, and seeing it increase.
That's not an answer.
Well it's an answer all right.
It may not be the answer you want.
(soft music) Listen.
(music in the distance) It's them.
The musicians for the ball.
Ya.
(galloping) (lively music) (light, upbeat music) (applause) (slow music) Excuse me, may I? Thank you.
(slow music) No thanks.
(children chattering) Danni.
Where have you been? To the kitchen.
Gingerbread, do you want some? Well? I'm going inside.
But they're dancing inside.
(applause) Danni.
Danni? (slow music) Excuse me miss, may I have the honor? Don't muck about Colin.
Come on then.
(applause) No thanks.
Yes.
Amelia will be wondering where you are.
I thought Luke was your escort this evening? Where is he? I don't know, and I don't really care.
But didn't he come I don't think you have any right to be asking questions.
Not after the way you behaved.
Me? Oh shut up Rob.
Just ask me to dance.
(light music) Let's try this one.
Anita.
Oliver, good evening.
So glad you could come.
This is splendid.
Luke.
Mr.
Blackwood.
(sigh) Your place is with your guests.
I can't go back in there.
You are my daughter and you are the mistress of Balmoral.
You must do your duty.
Now, perhaps you can see Luke for what he really is.
Come.
(upbeat music) Luke, I think I need a cool drink.
Luke, can I have a word with you? Sure.
If you'll excuse me.
Interesting seeing Matthew and Anita together in the same room after so many years.
Yeah, interesting.
Is that what you wanted to talk about? Well they were such close friends.
Anita, Matthew, and your father.
I knew that.
I should imagine that there are very few secrets among themselves.
My father always said that he and McGregor had an agreement over Langara.
Well your father's dead Luke, and it'll be your word against Matt's.
Unless there was a witness.
Anita, it is possibility.
Luke, let me make a suggestion, make the most of your opportunity.
If you're going to ask Anita, do it in front of your uncle, when his guard's down, in front of a witness.
The element of surprise.
I don't believe this, what are you helping him for? We want Langara for ourselves.
Think it through Frank, the bank owns half of Langara.
If Luke owns the other half.
Then McGregor owns nothing.
And very soon I will own Luke McGregor.
Let's not miss the fun.
(applause) McGregor.
Matt McGregor.
I think it's time we brought our quarrel out into the open.
Yes, well this is neither the time nor the place.
My father always told me that he was half owner of Langara, but that he could never prove it.
Well that's because it isn't true.
Yeah? Well there's one person in this room whom you both trusted.
Who could say who was lying in this situation.
Anita? Tell them, tell them what you told me.
Come on you're going too far Luke.
Anita, tell them.
Your father told me exactly what he told you.
That's a lie.
Watch your mouth.
She's lying Luke.
Hey, hey.
Luke.
If you can't behave like a gentleman I'm going to have to ask you to leave my house.
I've said all I have to say for the moment.
Anita? Ladies and gentlemen, perhaps we could all go on dancing.
(upbeat music) Perhaps we should leave.
What? Look like we're running away? No.
We came here to dance.
I want you to come with me.
I can't do that Luke.
We came together and we're going to leave together alright? No we're not you used me.
Come with me.
Please don't make a scene.
Take your hands off my sister.
Is there some trouble here? No Oliver, no trouble at all.
Gentlemen, would you show Mr.
McGregor to the door? Get your hands off me.
You'll be sorry you did this.
Would you care to compose yourself my dear? I'm sorry about that.
Oh, I'm sorry this unfortunate incident had to take place in my home.
I suspect it's time for me to return to San Francisco.
But you belong here Anita.
In Patterson's Ridge? I'm beginning to doubt it.
No.
No I mean here.
At Balmoral.
I don't understand.
You've seen London, Paris, New York.
I'll bet my last penny your heart has never left these mountains.
These mountains have a power.
If you're born here, raised here, they'll never let you go.
Stop searching Anita, the world can't give you what you want.
It's here.
Come home.
The grandest lady should have the grandest house, the grandest life, and a man who can give them to her, not a boy, a man.
(gunshot) Oh! You've lost a lot of blood, and there could be some fever.
I'll return tomorrow and change the dressing.
Thank you.
I should go too, Herbert's waiting for me.
I'll come by tomorrow, take care Oliver.
Goodbye Anita.
Goodnight Victoria.
Thank you.
How is he doc? Fortunate.
Luckily I was able to get the bullet out.
Bad business Oliver.
Any idea who did it? No.
I think I can answer your question.
I found this outside.
What is it? A spent cartridge from a revolver.
A six shooter as our American friend calls it.
What's going on here? We'll have to question him, no doubt he did it.
Where's your proof Frank? The cartridge.
There's only one gun in the mountain that takes bullets like that.
Did you come to the ball armed? Why should I answer your questions? Because someone tried to kill Oliver Blackwood tonight.
I brought my Colt but I left it beneath the seat of my buggy.
Can anyone vouch for ya after you left the ball? No.
Haven't you heard enough? Did you shoot Oliver Blackwood? No.
(scoff) Well we're going to have to lock you up until we can get a hold of the trooper.
Rob, you keep an eye on him.
I think I might help.
We wouldn't want him getting away now would we? In here, and don't try to get away.
He's a suspect Frank.
He's not guilty until the magistrate says so.
I didn't do this.
Now listen to me, he's our responsibility and that means he stays in one piece, okay? (scoff) Dad, is it true what they're saying? Is it Luke? Well it seems that way love.
You don't believe it do you? I don't want to.
Anyway, it's up to he law now.
Colin would mind taking Danni home, it's getting late.
Of course.
Kathleen and Michael have already left.
Luke wouldn't do something like that, would he mom? Let's talk about it in the morning Michael, it's late.
Off to bed.
Goodnight mom.
Goodnight.
Goodnight Mr.
Kelly.
Goodnight lad.
The boy will be having nightmares.
You didn't answer his question.
I don't know Jack.
If Luke was fighting mad, first of all with the McGregors and then with Oliver, except, it's not Luke to play the assassin.
Face to face, that's Luke's style, even when he's wrong.
I think you've got something there.
But the gun Jack, the bullet was fired from his gun.
You see, that's why I've got me doubts.
Blackwood's still alive.
When Luke fires that Colt of his, he don't miss.
After I sent Luke on his way, I brought Anita in here.
More than that I can't tell you.
If he was going to shoot anyone tonight, it would've been a McGregor.
Did you find the gun? Where he said it was, under the seat of the buggy.
Well then.
Anyone could've used it.
You get some rest Oliver, I'll see you in the morning.
I'll show you out.
Mr.
McGregor? Is there a chance Luke's innocent? Well what do you think? I love my father, and I want to see whoever did this brought to justice.
But Luke is not a murderer, believe me.
Goodnight.
If we're going to be here all night, I'm getting something to eat.
Well don't hurry back Frank.
What do you want? I brought some blankets.
He'll catch his death of cold in there.
Save the hangman the job.
(chuckles) Could you open the door please? Hang on, hang on.
What are you looking for Frank? Guns.
Grow up.
Luke move away from the door.
Um, I'd appreciate it if you didn't listen.
(neighing) Go and feed your face Frank.
I'd keep an eye on them in there Rob, you never know what they might be doing.
I thought you'd be cold.
Yeah.
You know I didn't do this right? I know you didn't.
Thanks for the blankets.
That's all right.
I'll bring breakfast in the morning.
Victoria thank you.
Rob? Thank you, goodnight.
(whistling) Do you have to whistle? Is there a law against it? I wouldn't be making jokes in your position Luke.
What would you being doing in my position Rob? I don't know, praying? Why don't you go grab a meal Rob? I've eaten.
Well then go back to Langar and get some sleep, I'll hold the fort.
Sure, and then while I'm not here, Luke makes a break for it and he gets shot trying to escape.
(chuckles) I'm just trying to do yo favor.
(chuckles) Well don't bother.
I'll return the favor though, why don't you go to bed? And then he makes a break for it and then he doesn't get shot, he gets away.
What kind of an idiot you think I am? One that can't be trusted.
Same goes for you McGregor.
Hey, for what it's worth I don't trust either of you.
As a matter of interest, where did you find the spent bullet? On the veranda outside my father's study.
I'm coming back, so don't get any ideas.
(whistling) You're looking better Oliver.
For a man who's been shot you mean.
Is that the gun that did it? Well it's Luke's gun.
You ever handled a Colt before? No, but I know the gun by reputation, naturally.
Well they're not common in these parts, that's why it's so easy to lay the blame with Luke.
Now this being a revolver, each time you cock the hammer it spins the next bullet into line with the firing pin.
And the spent cartridge stays in the chamber.
Mm, yet Frank told Robert he found the cartridge out on the veranda.
Odd isn't it? Very odd.
Frank, your father wants to see you.
Come in Frank.
Matt has convinced me that all possible charges against Luke McGregor should be dropped.
Somebody else pulled the trigger.
Well I'm not convinced.
If you'll excuse me.
We don't want to see an innocent man hang, do we Frank? I just want to get whoever did it.
Matt's been using his head, I suggest we do the same thing.
We're looking for a man who has a grudge against me.
I won't pretend I'm the most popular man in Patterson's Ridge.
You've outsmarted most of them.
I was shot by someone who didn't understand the weapon he was using, someone who didn't know that the spent cartridge stays inside the gun, and someone whose hand was shaking so much he couldn't shoot straight even from 20 feet away.
What are you going to do? Well I haven't cut you out of my will, yet.
If you've got the guts to try to put a bullet in me, who knows, maybe you've got the strength to hang onto this land.
But I wouldn't try it again if I were you.
There you go.
Did you get the one who did it? Well I proved you didn't.
Well then I have to thank you for that.
But uh, doesn't change a thing.
I didn't think it would.
Giddy up.
(soft music) (folksy music)