Snowy River: The McGregor Saga (1993) s01e10 Episode Script
The Rustlers
[Narrator.]
Previously on Snowy River, The McGregor Saga, Frank's up to no good with Luke's gold.
You got there, Frank, that you're so concerned about? Not gold? Please.
[Narrator.]
But a bush ranger has other plans for the coach and the gold.
Morning gentlemen.
Would you mind putting up your hands? (gunshot) [Narrator.]
When Herbert takes matters into his own hands he ends up with an enemy for life.
I won't forget you.
I promise.
[Narrator.]
Michael goes looking for adventure and finds the thief.
Keep your hands full of food and don't touch the gun.
So, not the hangman after all.
No.
(gunshot) [Narrator.]
Herbert makes a mistake he'll regret the rest of his life.
No.
Anita.
Anita no.
(soft music) [Man.]
Please, mister.
[Man In Black.]
Keep walking.
You're making a mistake.
You're making a big mistake.
We've done nothing.
Keep moving.
[Man.]
You've got the wrong guys.
You can't hang us.
Can't do this to us.
We never did it, mister.
Mister, you're making a mistake.
We've done nothing.
It wasn't us.
It's your mistake and your last.
Kevin.
We never did it mister.
[Man.]
Can't do this to us.
Plead your case with God.
[Matt.]
Frank, just hold it right there Frank.
This isn't McGregor business.
You're on my land so it's my business.
[Man.]
Please, you've got to help us sir.
What have they done? Cattle thieving.
We've been chasing them half the night.
We're looking for work we didn't steal anything.
Liar.
If someone's been at his cattle it wasn't us.
Where's your proof, Frank? They're the ones.
Whether it's true or not it isn't justice.
It's murder.
You're not the law McGregor.
Cut them loose.
(soft music) I'd like to thank you, Sir.
We were dead men out there.
Your names? Kevin Rorke, Mr.
McGregor.
Brian Casey, Sir.
So, you're just a couple of innocent victims are you? We're looking for honest work, not other mens' cattle and we can both ride.
Well you can earn your keep.
You'll be staying here at Langara for a week or so working for my son, Rob.
Thank you, Sir.
Well this isn't charity.
Frank Blackwood or anyone else can find proof against you I'll know where to find you.
Try running off and I'll hunt you down myself.
What's going on? These fellas are going to be working for us for awhile.
Why don't you show them where to bunk down? Yeah, come on.
Thank you, Sir.
Thanks.
I'll bring you some blankets and Andy will get you something to eat.
Thanks miss.
Danni, just Danni.
I'm Brian.
And that's where you'll sleep.
Brian, I think our luck just changed.
I feel like a fool having to be taught things every kid already knows.
Wanting to learn is admirable, Luke.
Look, no one comes here when school's finished and if they did no one would guess that you've come to learn.
Just as long as it's between the two of us, okay? You know you have my promise.
Good.
So, the lesson for today, tell me about politics.
Well, that's rather a big subject.
Where do you want to start? Well how does the system work here? I mean, back home, if you've got money or land to protect you make sure the rules are on your side, so you make sure the right man gets elected, right? It's the same the whole world over.
And men like Oliver Blackwood are rather good at it.
So, as they say, if you can't beat them join them.
The day will come, Luke, when the rich and powerful won't be allowed to run this country to suit themselves.
(soft music) [Man.]
You could hide a small herd forever in this country.
[Matt.]
Not on my property you can't.
If they're here, we'll find them.
[Man.]
Where else could they be? [Matt.]
Brands could of been changed and the cattle mixed in with someone else's herd.
[Man.]
That means one of our neighbors was responsible.
[Matt.]
Well, they could of been stolen and driven out of the area.
[Man.]
Well, the boys were found here.
[Matt.]
Exactly.
So as far as I'm concerned, we don't find them, they're innocent.
But if we do, they're in a lot of trouble.
You weren't lying when you said you could ride.
I grew up on the plains.
I could ride before I could walk.
Then we moved to the city.
I hated that.
Well there's plenty of work around here for a good horseman.
Listen, why don't you ride the north paddock tomorrow? Bring in any strays that bear our brand.
Yes Sir.
[Oliver.]
Have good eyes.
She's not a good hack.
[John.]
Well, they might take the price of the brown gilding.
What do you think? Like that one? I'll talk to the owner, see what I can do.
Excuse me, there's Matt McGregor.
Good to see you, Mr.
McGregor.
John.
Oliver.
Matt.
Follow these string, all sound, all for instance the bay.
Tell you what, I like that buck skin up here.
Ahh that's the pick of the bunch but I'm afraid you're too late.
Someone got here before you.
Oh? Who? Whoa whoa.
The balance on the buck skin, Mr.
Wilcox.
[John.]
Thank you.
I'll buy it from you.
(Chuckling) You will huh? As a wedding gift for Colin.
I'd consider it a favor.
Sorry.
That beauty's not for sale.
[Oliver.]
Moving up in the world, Luke? That's the direction I had in mind.
Good horse flesh, nice clothes, even a little style.
A little.
One thing lacking, really.
An estate, and a house to go with it.
Can't live in slab huts forever.
Not with you and your standing.
House costs a lot of money.
The secret of success is to use other people's money for what you want.
I know a house that might suit.
Talk to Victoria.
She knows it.
I will.
Your father said I should talk to you.
He did? He thinks I should buy a house.
Oh and what do you think? I think maybe he's right.
I thought that shack of yours rather suited you.
Maybe it does.
But, I doubt it'd suit you.
(soft music) [Boy.]
It's snowing up on the mountains.
Will people still come to the wedding? When Matt McGregor's oldest boy gets married the whole district will want to be there.
[Boy.]
What happens? Well, everyone dresses in their Sunday best to go to the church and Emily will look the prettiest of all in her beautiful white bridal dress and when Jack escorts her down the aisle, the organ will play the Wedding March and Colin will be waiting for her at the altar feeling proud and probably nervous.
Will you feel nervous, Mr.
Kelly? Nah.
Weddings, only takes one.
Before you know it, you've got a rash of them.
Like foot in mouth.
[Boy.]
Why? Romance, son.
When a woman sees that bride walking up the aisle she sees herself.
When you've quite finished fleecing with your wisdom, Jack, perhaps you'd like to get to work? Yes ma'am.
(humming) (girls laughing) [Girl.]
Danni, it's your American cousin.
[Danni.]
Ahh good looking buck skin.
My mother says that there's no telling how rich he's going to be.
Is he really as mysterious as he looks? Well, he doesn't say much if that's what you mean.
I suppose it's the mourning over Anita Hargraves or the mooning over Victoria Blackwood.
I'm not sure which.
Arthur wasn't at school today.
I like Henry better.
Who do you like Danni? Arthur Bentley's a nitwit and Henry Solomon can't write to save himself.
Why would I like either? (soft music) [Brian.]
Hey Jenny.
Which one are you? I'm Brian, Brian Casey.
Shouldn't you be working? I have been.
Mending fences for six hours.
Now I'm looking for strays.
Everyone works hard at Langara.
I'm not complaining.
Me and Kevin came looking for work.
Let's hope your dad lets us stay.
He will if you're good enough.
I'm good enough.
You can mend fences but can you ride? (clicking) Is this going to enhance my standing? As Bill planned, you're Patterson, the first man to open up the high country for cattle.
No one's lived here for months.
Really? It would cost a lot of money to fix.
A small fortune, yeah.
But it's like my father said, you'd have the best and grandest house in the district.
You really like it huh? Luke, can't you see it? Garden's all restored, great sweeping drive, carriages coming and going with our guests.
Your guests.
[Luke.]
Giddy up.
I didn't think you were a bad loser.
So you can ride, you don't have to go on about it.
What should I have done? Let you beat me? Your hat, ma'am.
Thank you.
You've got pretty eyes Danni McGregor.
And what's that supposed to mean? Sweet talking the boss's daughter, eh? [Brian.]
She's a nice girl.
Here's some advice, boy, keep a smile on your face, keep your nose clean, 'cause this place is easy pickings.
[Kathleen.]
Good afternoon.
Mrs.
O'Neil, how nice to see you.
Mr.
McGregor.
Mrs.
Fowler.
We're looking for a gift for Emily and Colin, something really special.
Well perhaps something over here.
We'll just take our time if you don't mind.
Trinkets? Well I knew you have something like this we could of gone with jewelry in Melbourne.
Oh, this is lovely.
Yeah.
Very pretty, that'll do it.
No no, Matt, this is my taste.
I didn't say it was right for Emily.
This is more like something a groom would give a bride.
Let me see.
Oh yes, I mean, these would do nicely.
What, cups and saucers? Yes.
Yeah and have people going around and saying that's all I gave my daughter in law.
Now you're sounding like Oliver Blackwood.
It's for both of them.
They're a couple now.
Believe me, this is the perfect gift for you to give Emily.
She'll really appreciate it.
Okay.
You really think she'll like it? Yes I do.
Good and so do I.
Good.
Gentlemen, you all know why we are here.
We need a candidate for the coming election.
The high country has never had an honorable member in the State Parliament and it's about time we did.
If we don't do it we'll end up with some city slicker telling us how we should run things in the mountains.
(chattering) Go on.
Gentlemen, the world is changing and we have to change with it.
To do that we need a voice.
If we don't have a voice we will simply be left behind.
Now the man you choose as your voice must not only be willing, he must be able.
Well, this is no time for false modesty.
There is only one man in this room who is capable of filling that bill.
Oliver's right of course.
He's right.
Matt, you're the man for the job.
- Here here.
- Here here.
Quiet a minute.
Come on you've got the respect of the whole district and you're well-liked.
Your name is known through the length and breadth of the high country and what other man could say that? (chattering) Hell, there's no point in drafting me because I'm not interested.
Look, I don't think you can refuse, Matt.
I think it's your civic duty.
I'm a cattle man.
I know nothing about politics.
You're an honest man and that's good enough for us.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
(clapping) That'd be good enough for anyone.
Now I'd like you to think about this before you say no.
Alright, I'll think about it.
(chattering) (clapping) I'm sorry, Oliver, I had no idea they would choose Matt.
Obviously.
It's not certain he'll stand.
But he will stand.
I have no chance against him.
I have no stomach for that particular brand of humiliation.
Now we shall have to find someone else to oppose him.
And I think I know who.
Why would I be interested in politics? [Oliver.]
Because I think you'd be good at it.
[Luke.]
I'm a gold miner, Mr.
Blackwood.
I like to do one thing at a time.
Matt has agreed to stand as a candidate.
You're gonna just stand back and let him win? I've got other things on my mind.
Langara.
But if Matt wins this election and acquires new and powerful friends, the gates of Langara will be closed to you.
If on the other hand you should win, those powerful allies will be yours and you'll be a great stride closer to getting what you really want.
What makes you think I could beat him? Your uncle is refusing to campaign.
No speeches, no tricks, just simple choice for the people.
Pride, you see Luke, is a fatal flaw.
He may be popular enough now but with my help and advice you could change all that.
What do you get out of it? I would of thought that was obvious.
I know you want him to lose.
But what do you get out of it if I win? You're your own man, Luke.
You don't owe me anything.
Shuffle the cards, gentlemen, I'm in.
And while I'm at it, I think I'll make an offer on that house.
It'll be an expensive buy.
The secret to success is learning how to use other people's money, right? I'll borrow it from the bank.
Oh no need to do that.
I'd be happy to carry the mortgage for you.
Thank you.
[Brian.]
Come on.
Come on.
Woo! Come on boy.
Whoa oh yeah.
Whoa.
Who put him on Spitfire? I did, to see how good he really was.
On boy.
Whoa whoa! (grunting) (laughing) Thanks.
Rob should of never put you on that horse.
I could of ridden it.
I was unlucky that's all.
There's only one man who can ride him and that's my dad.
I think your brother wanted to see what I can do.
He does.
He wants dad to keep you on.
He thinks you have a future here with us.
[Brian.]
What do you think? How's your cheek? It's better.
(soft music) Don't let them push you around.
Excuse me, could I have a moment of your time? Now most of you don't know me personally but you know about me.
I came here with nothing and I'm trying to make something of myself.
Yeah well what's your point boy? Well the high country's supposed to be free isn't it? But it's not for people like you and me, only for the rich.
You're still wet behind the ears, boy.
Look, they run the councils don't they? I mean, the rich look after themselves.
If you vote for Matt McGregor, you're just gonna get more of the same.
But if you vote for me, you're gonna get someone who's gonna stand up for your right for change.
Yeah well.
(mumbling) Thanks.
Thank you.
Danni, I'd like a word with you.
You weren't paying much attention this morning.
I'm sorry.
Something troubling you? You don't have to tell me.
Am I ugly? No.
You are not ugly.
So, if someone said I had nice eyes or something they wouldn't be making a joke? Sounds like a compliment to me.
This someone wouldn't happen to be a young man by any chance? It seems to me that he likes you.
How do you feel about him? Well, I didn't think about him at all and now, now I can't think about anything else.
And you're confused.
Well there's nothing strange about these feelings, Danny.
That's what happens when you start growing older.
And to care about someone is a wonderful thing.
I don't even know how to talk to him.
Wish I knew as much about boys as Victoria Blackwood does.
Now this may come as a surprise but Victoria knows very little.
Oh she knows that she's pretty and she knows how to play games and how to make her boyfriends jealous, but if you want someone to care for you, you have to be able to give in return.
And Victoria certainly hasn't learned that yet.
Thank you for listening to me.
Well thank you for confiding in me.
What we need is a true and honest man representing the high country, not some opportunist.
That's why this town must vote for Matt McGregor.
Well of course you know where our loyalties lie, Emily.
But I can't see why he can't speak for himself.
Then maybe he thinks he won already.
What could he tell you that you don't already know? He's the best man for the job.
That's to be seen.
(chattering) (soft music) I warned you to get rid of those foreigners.
Chin and his men aren't cheating us, Frank.
The gold is down by half.
Half! If they're not stealing it, it's petering out and you're doing nothing about it.
You and your father talked me into this election and when it's done I can see to the mine, alright? We're losing money but it hasn't stopped you spending has it? Votes don't come cheap, Frank, and neither did the house, not at your father's rate of interest.
Well, what is money for huh? (chuckling) And you must have lots of paintings.
They say a great deal about a man, the paintings he hangs.
[Luke.]
I've heard about some painters in Melbourne actually.
They're Australians.
I'm talking about real artists.
And you must be able to seat 20 to 30 to dinner.
Sounds expensive.
I don't even have that many friends.
You will have, Luke.
You will have.
Believe me.
Forget all these things, the friends, paintings, a table to seat 30.
Who do I have to sit opposite me? Well, the lady of the house, of course.
Do you have anyone in mind? Just one.
(uplifting music) Hello Mrs.
O'Neil.
Luke, your first visitor.
Well you've had your last lesson from me, Luke McGregor.
Is something wrong? Here.
Are you proud of yourself? There are copies of it all over town, vicious lies about Matt McGregor and his family.
You have described your own uncle as a liar and a coward, a man who cheats his neighbors and harbors criminals.
I've never seen this before.
How will you expect me to believe that? You came to me for help for an education.
I thought I was helping you to settle here, to become one of us.
All that time you were using me to go after your uncle.
I won't be a party to that.
I didn't write this.
I don't need lies to beat him.
You've already alienated yourself from every decent person in the high country, Luke.
So win or lose, this mansion of yours is going to be a very lonely place.
I have offered you my support and advice, why complain? Because it's a pack of lies.
(sighing) Matt McGregor has rested on his laurels long enough.
It's about time people took a second look at the legend.
I'll win my way or not at all, alright? A lot of people have given you their support.
Victoria is counting on your success.
One more dirty trick and I'll walk out.
Don't bluff me.
I never bluff.
(tense music) He won't walk out.
Just trying to solve his conscience.
The pamphlet's already done its work.
Danni? What's a matter, love? Hey? This.
Well I'm sorry you read it.
How can Luke say those things about you? I don't know.
But none of it's true, you just remember that.
Dad, it says there that Brian and Kevin are thieves, that there's proof.
That's not true either is it? They didn't steal the cattle.
Well if I had proof I would of called in the troopers by now.
[Luke.]
I came here to see your father, Rob.
If I wanted to fight with you you would of known about it already.
Now, just let me see him alright? Well why don't you get down and we'll settle this now, or are you a coward as well as a liar? Rob? What do you want? Lies are spread about you.
I had nothing to do with it.
Yeah so what difference does it make? I came here to apologize.
I don't need to stab you in the back to win this election.
I can do it by telling the truth.
You and Oliver Blackwood are the same.
You're telling people you'll represent them.
Langara's all that matters to you.
You don't care about the rest of the high country.
Luke, you fight your campaign anyway you choose but you tell your friends that if they say or print one word that hurts my family I'm coming after them and you.
Giddy up.
(clicking) Danni, that paper about your dad and us, it's not true.
We didn't steal.
I don't want to talk about it.
You believe me though don't you? Leave me alone.
(pebble hitting window) What are you doing? Danni I need to talk to you.
Are you crazy? You'll wake my dad.
Please.
Alright.
In the stables.
What do you want? I wanted you to know that I wouldn't do anything to hurt you.
You'll wake Kevin.
I couldn't go on not talking like that.
It doesn't matter.
I didn't mean it.
You didn't believe those lies? We're friends, I felt terrible.
I'm sorry.
That's okay now.
You know what I love about this land? It's so clean.
Never thought of it like that.
You would if you lived in a city.
Nothing's clean there.
Not the place, not the people.
If you're poor you've got nothing, no chance of having more, every word a lie, every man a thief.
But not you.
You learn bad tricks if you want to get by.
But you're not there now.
You're here.
And dad will let you stay.
Maybe.
But if I did stay, it wouldn't be for the work, nor would it be for the country.
I'd stay because you're here.
(uplifting music) (rooster crowing) [Matt.]
Wouldn't have them.
Wait, where to start? Good morning.
Isn't it a wonderful day? You think she's sick? We've searched every inch of this property.
Dad, you said it yourself, if the stolen cattle were here we would of found them by now.
Yeah well, perhaps they're not on our land.
It's where Frank caught the boys.
Well, maybe they were leading Frank and his men away from the camp.
Yeah, could be.
Do you think they might be hidden on the Blackwoods' property? Only one way to find out.
Let's search it above the snow line.
Hi.
Hi.
I rubbed the mare down for you.
Thanks.
I've got something for you.
I want you to have this.
Brilliant.
Thank you.
You meet me later? I met my true love by the old willow tree.
Shut up, Kevin.
Listen here, lover boy, our luck might be running out.
The boss has gone looking again.
I think he knows his business.
(soft music) There they are.
Danni.
We're in trouble, me and Kevin.
[Danni.]
What? Please miss, you've gotta help us or we're dead men.
Brian? Those men, the ones who blamed us for the missing cattle, they're coming here for us.
No, my dad won't let them.
There's too many of them.
We need some horses, we've got to get out.
[Kevin.]
Please miss.
Alright.
Will you get word to me? I will somehow.
I might never see you again.
I'll come back one day.
Miss, is there a way out through the rangers that they won't suspect? There's a pass to the north.
It's a bit long but it'll take you down to the low lands.
Could you show us? We could find it.
She stays here.
We'll be lost, you fool.
Those are our things.
(screaming) Hey let her be, Kevin.
She knows now.
She'll send them after us.
I said let her be.
Alright.
I've had enough of you.
(groaning) Brian! Get on that horse.
I won't.
Get on.
You get away from her! (grunting) How do you feel? [Danni.]
No one hurt me, dad.
I'm sorry love but he was a thief.
[Danni.]
I know.
Darling.
(crying) My word.
It's alright.
It's alright.
There.
No more tears.
Tomorrow's Colin's wedding, it's gonna be a wonderful day.
Oh darling.
(wedding music) (chattering) Oh Emily, you look beautiful.
[Emily.]
Thank you.
Oh dear, here, daddy.
(chuckling) I'll go in and see what's happening.
[Kathleen.]
There, you ready? Well it's the happiest day of my life.
Well, I'll tell the groom.
He'll be relieved to hear it.
Kathleen? Here, I want you to have this.
You, you said it was your taste.
Well I said it was more like something Yeah, that's right.
Well, it's beautiful Matt.
Thank you.
[Jack.]
Well they're ready for us now.
How do you feel Jack? [Jack.]
Nervous.
Danni, broken hearts do mend.
Here we go.
(wedding music) Colin Alexander, do you take Emily to be your lawfully wedded wife as long as you both shall live? [Colin.]
I do.
By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife.
You may kiss the bride.
(soft music)
Previously on Snowy River, The McGregor Saga, Frank's up to no good with Luke's gold.
You got there, Frank, that you're so concerned about? Not gold? Please.
[Narrator.]
But a bush ranger has other plans for the coach and the gold.
Morning gentlemen.
Would you mind putting up your hands? (gunshot) [Narrator.]
When Herbert takes matters into his own hands he ends up with an enemy for life.
I won't forget you.
I promise.
[Narrator.]
Michael goes looking for adventure and finds the thief.
Keep your hands full of food and don't touch the gun.
So, not the hangman after all.
No.
(gunshot) [Narrator.]
Herbert makes a mistake he'll regret the rest of his life.
No.
Anita.
Anita no.
(soft music) [Man.]
Please, mister.
[Man In Black.]
Keep walking.
You're making a mistake.
You're making a big mistake.
We've done nothing.
Keep moving.
[Man.]
You've got the wrong guys.
You can't hang us.
Can't do this to us.
We never did it, mister.
Mister, you're making a mistake.
We've done nothing.
It wasn't us.
It's your mistake and your last.
Kevin.
We never did it mister.
[Man.]
Can't do this to us.
Plead your case with God.
[Matt.]
Frank, just hold it right there Frank.
This isn't McGregor business.
You're on my land so it's my business.
[Man.]
Please, you've got to help us sir.
What have they done? Cattle thieving.
We've been chasing them half the night.
We're looking for work we didn't steal anything.
Liar.
If someone's been at his cattle it wasn't us.
Where's your proof, Frank? They're the ones.
Whether it's true or not it isn't justice.
It's murder.
You're not the law McGregor.
Cut them loose.
(soft music) I'd like to thank you, Sir.
We were dead men out there.
Your names? Kevin Rorke, Mr.
McGregor.
Brian Casey, Sir.
So, you're just a couple of innocent victims are you? We're looking for honest work, not other mens' cattle and we can both ride.
Well you can earn your keep.
You'll be staying here at Langara for a week or so working for my son, Rob.
Thank you, Sir.
Well this isn't charity.
Frank Blackwood or anyone else can find proof against you I'll know where to find you.
Try running off and I'll hunt you down myself.
What's going on? These fellas are going to be working for us for awhile.
Why don't you show them where to bunk down? Yeah, come on.
Thank you, Sir.
Thanks.
I'll bring you some blankets and Andy will get you something to eat.
Thanks miss.
Danni, just Danni.
I'm Brian.
And that's where you'll sleep.
Brian, I think our luck just changed.
I feel like a fool having to be taught things every kid already knows.
Wanting to learn is admirable, Luke.
Look, no one comes here when school's finished and if they did no one would guess that you've come to learn.
Just as long as it's between the two of us, okay? You know you have my promise.
Good.
So, the lesson for today, tell me about politics.
Well, that's rather a big subject.
Where do you want to start? Well how does the system work here? I mean, back home, if you've got money or land to protect you make sure the rules are on your side, so you make sure the right man gets elected, right? It's the same the whole world over.
And men like Oliver Blackwood are rather good at it.
So, as they say, if you can't beat them join them.
The day will come, Luke, when the rich and powerful won't be allowed to run this country to suit themselves.
(soft music) [Man.]
You could hide a small herd forever in this country.
[Matt.]
Not on my property you can't.
If they're here, we'll find them.
[Man.]
Where else could they be? [Matt.]
Brands could of been changed and the cattle mixed in with someone else's herd.
[Man.]
That means one of our neighbors was responsible.
[Matt.]
Well, they could of been stolen and driven out of the area.
[Man.]
Well, the boys were found here.
[Matt.]
Exactly.
So as far as I'm concerned, we don't find them, they're innocent.
But if we do, they're in a lot of trouble.
You weren't lying when you said you could ride.
I grew up on the plains.
I could ride before I could walk.
Then we moved to the city.
I hated that.
Well there's plenty of work around here for a good horseman.
Listen, why don't you ride the north paddock tomorrow? Bring in any strays that bear our brand.
Yes Sir.
[Oliver.]
Have good eyes.
She's not a good hack.
[John.]
Well, they might take the price of the brown gilding.
What do you think? Like that one? I'll talk to the owner, see what I can do.
Excuse me, there's Matt McGregor.
Good to see you, Mr.
McGregor.
John.
Oliver.
Matt.
Follow these string, all sound, all for instance the bay.
Tell you what, I like that buck skin up here.
Ahh that's the pick of the bunch but I'm afraid you're too late.
Someone got here before you.
Oh? Who? Whoa whoa.
The balance on the buck skin, Mr.
Wilcox.
[John.]
Thank you.
I'll buy it from you.
(Chuckling) You will huh? As a wedding gift for Colin.
I'd consider it a favor.
Sorry.
That beauty's not for sale.
[Oliver.]
Moving up in the world, Luke? That's the direction I had in mind.
Good horse flesh, nice clothes, even a little style.
A little.
One thing lacking, really.
An estate, and a house to go with it.
Can't live in slab huts forever.
Not with you and your standing.
House costs a lot of money.
The secret of success is to use other people's money for what you want.
I know a house that might suit.
Talk to Victoria.
She knows it.
I will.
Your father said I should talk to you.
He did? He thinks I should buy a house.
Oh and what do you think? I think maybe he's right.
I thought that shack of yours rather suited you.
Maybe it does.
But, I doubt it'd suit you.
(soft music) [Boy.]
It's snowing up on the mountains.
Will people still come to the wedding? When Matt McGregor's oldest boy gets married the whole district will want to be there.
[Boy.]
What happens? Well, everyone dresses in their Sunday best to go to the church and Emily will look the prettiest of all in her beautiful white bridal dress and when Jack escorts her down the aisle, the organ will play the Wedding March and Colin will be waiting for her at the altar feeling proud and probably nervous.
Will you feel nervous, Mr.
Kelly? Nah.
Weddings, only takes one.
Before you know it, you've got a rash of them.
Like foot in mouth.
[Boy.]
Why? Romance, son.
When a woman sees that bride walking up the aisle she sees herself.
When you've quite finished fleecing with your wisdom, Jack, perhaps you'd like to get to work? Yes ma'am.
(humming) (girls laughing) [Girl.]
Danni, it's your American cousin.
[Danni.]
Ahh good looking buck skin.
My mother says that there's no telling how rich he's going to be.
Is he really as mysterious as he looks? Well, he doesn't say much if that's what you mean.
I suppose it's the mourning over Anita Hargraves or the mooning over Victoria Blackwood.
I'm not sure which.
Arthur wasn't at school today.
I like Henry better.
Who do you like Danni? Arthur Bentley's a nitwit and Henry Solomon can't write to save himself.
Why would I like either? (soft music) [Brian.]
Hey Jenny.
Which one are you? I'm Brian, Brian Casey.
Shouldn't you be working? I have been.
Mending fences for six hours.
Now I'm looking for strays.
Everyone works hard at Langara.
I'm not complaining.
Me and Kevin came looking for work.
Let's hope your dad lets us stay.
He will if you're good enough.
I'm good enough.
You can mend fences but can you ride? (clicking) Is this going to enhance my standing? As Bill planned, you're Patterson, the first man to open up the high country for cattle.
No one's lived here for months.
Really? It would cost a lot of money to fix.
A small fortune, yeah.
But it's like my father said, you'd have the best and grandest house in the district.
You really like it huh? Luke, can't you see it? Garden's all restored, great sweeping drive, carriages coming and going with our guests.
Your guests.
[Luke.]
Giddy up.
I didn't think you were a bad loser.
So you can ride, you don't have to go on about it.
What should I have done? Let you beat me? Your hat, ma'am.
Thank you.
You've got pretty eyes Danni McGregor.
And what's that supposed to mean? Sweet talking the boss's daughter, eh? [Brian.]
She's a nice girl.
Here's some advice, boy, keep a smile on your face, keep your nose clean, 'cause this place is easy pickings.
[Kathleen.]
Good afternoon.
Mrs.
O'Neil, how nice to see you.
Mr.
McGregor.
Mrs.
Fowler.
We're looking for a gift for Emily and Colin, something really special.
Well perhaps something over here.
We'll just take our time if you don't mind.
Trinkets? Well I knew you have something like this we could of gone with jewelry in Melbourne.
Oh, this is lovely.
Yeah.
Very pretty, that'll do it.
No no, Matt, this is my taste.
I didn't say it was right for Emily.
This is more like something a groom would give a bride.
Let me see.
Oh yes, I mean, these would do nicely.
What, cups and saucers? Yes.
Yeah and have people going around and saying that's all I gave my daughter in law.
Now you're sounding like Oliver Blackwood.
It's for both of them.
They're a couple now.
Believe me, this is the perfect gift for you to give Emily.
She'll really appreciate it.
Okay.
You really think she'll like it? Yes I do.
Good and so do I.
Good.
Gentlemen, you all know why we are here.
We need a candidate for the coming election.
The high country has never had an honorable member in the State Parliament and it's about time we did.
If we don't do it we'll end up with some city slicker telling us how we should run things in the mountains.
(chattering) Go on.
Gentlemen, the world is changing and we have to change with it.
To do that we need a voice.
If we don't have a voice we will simply be left behind.
Now the man you choose as your voice must not only be willing, he must be able.
Well, this is no time for false modesty.
There is only one man in this room who is capable of filling that bill.
Oliver's right of course.
He's right.
Matt, you're the man for the job.
- Here here.
- Here here.
Quiet a minute.
Come on you've got the respect of the whole district and you're well-liked.
Your name is known through the length and breadth of the high country and what other man could say that? (chattering) Hell, there's no point in drafting me because I'm not interested.
Look, I don't think you can refuse, Matt.
I think it's your civic duty.
I'm a cattle man.
I know nothing about politics.
You're an honest man and that's good enough for us.
- Yeah.
- Yeah.
(clapping) That'd be good enough for anyone.
Now I'd like you to think about this before you say no.
Alright, I'll think about it.
(chattering) (clapping) I'm sorry, Oliver, I had no idea they would choose Matt.
Obviously.
It's not certain he'll stand.
But he will stand.
I have no chance against him.
I have no stomach for that particular brand of humiliation.
Now we shall have to find someone else to oppose him.
And I think I know who.
Why would I be interested in politics? [Oliver.]
Because I think you'd be good at it.
[Luke.]
I'm a gold miner, Mr.
Blackwood.
I like to do one thing at a time.
Matt has agreed to stand as a candidate.
You're gonna just stand back and let him win? I've got other things on my mind.
Langara.
But if Matt wins this election and acquires new and powerful friends, the gates of Langara will be closed to you.
If on the other hand you should win, those powerful allies will be yours and you'll be a great stride closer to getting what you really want.
What makes you think I could beat him? Your uncle is refusing to campaign.
No speeches, no tricks, just simple choice for the people.
Pride, you see Luke, is a fatal flaw.
He may be popular enough now but with my help and advice you could change all that.
What do you get out of it? I would of thought that was obvious.
I know you want him to lose.
But what do you get out of it if I win? You're your own man, Luke.
You don't owe me anything.
Shuffle the cards, gentlemen, I'm in.
And while I'm at it, I think I'll make an offer on that house.
It'll be an expensive buy.
The secret to success is learning how to use other people's money, right? I'll borrow it from the bank.
Oh no need to do that.
I'd be happy to carry the mortgage for you.
Thank you.
[Brian.]
Come on.
Come on.
Woo! Come on boy.
Whoa oh yeah.
Whoa.
Who put him on Spitfire? I did, to see how good he really was.
On boy.
Whoa whoa! (grunting) (laughing) Thanks.
Rob should of never put you on that horse.
I could of ridden it.
I was unlucky that's all.
There's only one man who can ride him and that's my dad.
I think your brother wanted to see what I can do.
He does.
He wants dad to keep you on.
He thinks you have a future here with us.
[Brian.]
What do you think? How's your cheek? It's better.
(soft music) Don't let them push you around.
Excuse me, could I have a moment of your time? Now most of you don't know me personally but you know about me.
I came here with nothing and I'm trying to make something of myself.
Yeah well what's your point boy? Well the high country's supposed to be free isn't it? But it's not for people like you and me, only for the rich.
You're still wet behind the ears, boy.
Look, they run the councils don't they? I mean, the rich look after themselves.
If you vote for Matt McGregor, you're just gonna get more of the same.
But if you vote for me, you're gonna get someone who's gonna stand up for your right for change.
Yeah well.
(mumbling) Thanks.
Thank you.
Danni, I'd like a word with you.
You weren't paying much attention this morning.
I'm sorry.
Something troubling you? You don't have to tell me.
Am I ugly? No.
You are not ugly.
So, if someone said I had nice eyes or something they wouldn't be making a joke? Sounds like a compliment to me.
This someone wouldn't happen to be a young man by any chance? It seems to me that he likes you.
How do you feel about him? Well, I didn't think about him at all and now, now I can't think about anything else.
And you're confused.
Well there's nothing strange about these feelings, Danny.
That's what happens when you start growing older.
And to care about someone is a wonderful thing.
I don't even know how to talk to him.
Wish I knew as much about boys as Victoria Blackwood does.
Now this may come as a surprise but Victoria knows very little.
Oh she knows that she's pretty and she knows how to play games and how to make her boyfriends jealous, but if you want someone to care for you, you have to be able to give in return.
And Victoria certainly hasn't learned that yet.
Thank you for listening to me.
Well thank you for confiding in me.
What we need is a true and honest man representing the high country, not some opportunist.
That's why this town must vote for Matt McGregor.
Well of course you know where our loyalties lie, Emily.
But I can't see why he can't speak for himself.
Then maybe he thinks he won already.
What could he tell you that you don't already know? He's the best man for the job.
That's to be seen.
(chattering) (soft music) I warned you to get rid of those foreigners.
Chin and his men aren't cheating us, Frank.
The gold is down by half.
Half! If they're not stealing it, it's petering out and you're doing nothing about it.
You and your father talked me into this election and when it's done I can see to the mine, alright? We're losing money but it hasn't stopped you spending has it? Votes don't come cheap, Frank, and neither did the house, not at your father's rate of interest.
Well, what is money for huh? (chuckling) And you must have lots of paintings.
They say a great deal about a man, the paintings he hangs.
[Luke.]
I've heard about some painters in Melbourne actually.
They're Australians.
I'm talking about real artists.
And you must be able to seat 20 to 30 to dinner.
Sounds expensive.
I don't even have that many friends.
You will have, Luke.
You will have.
Believe me.
Forget all these things, the friends, paintings, a table to seat 30.
Who do I have to sit opposite me? Well, the lady of the house, of course.
Do you have anyone in mind? Just one.
(uplifting music) Hello Mrs.
O'Neil.
Luke, your first visitor.
Well you've had your last lesson from me, Luke McGregor.
Is something wrong? Here.
Are you proud of yourself? There are copies of it all over town, vicious lies about Matt McGregor and his family.
You have described your own uncle as a liar and a coward, a man who cheats his neighbors and harbors criminals.
I've never seen this before.
How will you expect me to believe that? You came to me for help for an education.
I thought I was helping you to settle here, to become one of us.
All that time you were using me to go after your uncle.
I won't be a party to that.
I didn't write this.
I don't need lies to beat him.
You've already alienated yourself from every decent person in the high country, Luke.
So win or lose, this mansion of yours is going to be a very lonely place.
I have offered you my support and advice, why complain? Because it's a pack of lies.
(sighing) Matt McGregor has rested on his laurels long enough.
It's about time people took a second look at the legend.
I'll win my way or not at all, alright? A lot of people have given you their support.
Victoria is counting on your success.
One more dirty trick and I'll walk out.
Don't bluff me.
I never bluff.
(tense music) He won't walk out.
Just trying to solve his conscience.
The pamphlet's already done its work.
Danni? What's a matter, love? Hey? This.
Well I'm sorry you read it.
How can Luke say those things about you? I don't know.
But none of it's true, you just remember that.
Dad, it says there that Brian and Kevin are thieves, that there's proof.
That's not true either is it? They didn't steal the cattle.
Well if I had proof I would of called in the troopers by now.
[Luke.]
I came here to see your father, Rob.
If I wanted to fight with you you would of known about it already.
Now, just let me see him alright? Well why don't you get down and we'll settle this now, or are you a coward as well as a liar? Rob? What do you want? Lies are spread about you.
I had nothing to do with it.
Yeah so what difference does it make? I came here to apologize.
I don't need to stab you in the back to win this election.
I can do it by telling the truth.
You and Oliver Blackwood are the same.
You're telling people you'll represent them.
Langara's all that matters to you.
You don't care about the rest of the high country.
Luke, you fight your campaign anyway you choose but you tell your friends that if they say or print one word that hurts my family I'm coming after them and you.
Giddy up.
(clicking) Danni, that paper about your dad and us, it's not true.
We didn't steal.
I don't want to talk about it.
You believe me though don't you? Leave me alone.
(pebble hitting window) What are you doing? Danni I need to talk to you.
Are you crazy? You'll wake my dad.
Please.
Alright.
In the stables.
What do you want? I wanted you to know that I wouldn't do anything to hurt you.
You'll wake Kevin.
I couldn't go on not talking like that.
It doesn't matter.
I didn't mean it.
You didn't believe those lies? We're friends, I felt terrible.
I'm sorry.
That's okay now.
You know what I love about this land? It's so clean.
Never thought of it like that.
You would if you lived in a city.
Nothing's clean there.
Not the place, not the people.
If you're poor you've got nothing, no chance of having more, every word a lie, every man a thief.
But not you.
You learn bad tricks if you want to get by.
But you're not there now.
You're here.
And dad will let you stay.
Maybe.
But if I did stay, it wouldn't be for the work, nor would it be for the country.
I'd stay because you're here.
(uplifting music) (rooster crowing) [Matt.]
Wouldn't have them.
Wait, where to start? Good morning.
Isn't it a wonderful day? You think she's sick? We've searched every inch of this property.
Dad, you said it yourself, if the stolen cattle were here we would of found them by now.
Yeah well, perhaps they're not on our land.
It's where Frank caught the boys.
Well, maybe they were leading Frank and his men away from the camp.
Yeah, could be.
Do you think they might be hidden on the Blackwoods' property? Only one way to find out.
Let's search it above the snow line.
Hi.
Hi.
I rubbed the mare down for you.
Thanks.
I've got something for you.
I want you to have this.
Brilliant.
Thank you.
You meet me later? I met my true love by the old willow tree.
Shut up, Kevin.
Listen here, lover boy, our luck might be running out.
The boss has gone looking again.
I think he knows his business.
(soft music) There they are.
Danni.
We're in trouble, me and Kevin.
[Danni.]
What? Please miss, you've gotta help us or we're dead men.
Brian? Those men, the ones who blamed us for the missing cattle, they're coming here for us.
No, my dad won't let them.
There's too many of them.
We need some horses, we've got to get out.
[Kevin.]
Please miss.
Alright.
Will you get word to me? I will somehow.
I might never see you again.
I'll come back one day.
Miss, is there a way out through the rangers that they won't suspect? There's a pass to the north.
It's a bit long but it'll take you down to the low lands.
Could you show us? We could find it.
She stays here.
We'll be lost, you fool.
Those are our things.
(screaming) Hey let her be, Kevin.
She knows now.
She'll send them after us.
I said let her be.
Alright.
I've had enough of you.
(groaning) Brian! Get on that horse.
I won't.
Get on.
You get away from her! (grunting) How do you feel? [Danni.]
No one hurt me, dad.
I'm sorry love but he was a thief.
[Danni.]
I know.
Darling.
(crying) My word.
It's alright.
It's alright.
There.
No more tears.
Tomorrow's Colin's wedding, it's gonna be a wonderful day.
Oh darling.
(wedding music) (chattering) Oh Emily, you look beautiful.
[Emily.]
Thank you.
Oh dear, here, daddy.
(chuckling) I'll go in and see what's happening.
[Kathleen.]
There, you ready? Well it's the happiest day of my life.
Well, I'll tell the groom.
He'll be relieved to hear it.
Kathleen? Here, I want you to have this.
You, you said it was your taste.
Well I said it was more like something Yeah, that's right.
Well, it's beautiful Matt.
Thank you.
[Jack.]
Well they're ready for us now.
How do you feel Jack? [Jack.]
Nervous.
Danni, broken hearts do mend.
Here we go.
(wedding music) Colin Alexander, do you take Emily to be your lawfully wedded wife as long as you both shall live? [Colin.]
I do.
By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife.
You may kiss the bride.
(soft music)