Titanic: Blood and Steel (2012) s01e11 Episode Script
The Tipping Point
1 (WORKMAN) Hold it! I still find it unsettling how we are dwarfed by our own creations.
Mr Andrews? Lord Pirrie requests your presence, sir.
Thank you, Chorley.
Excuse me.
Mmm.
(HAMMERING AND POUNDING FROM THE SHIPYARD) (DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) Am I disturbing you? Yes, and I am so grateful! Well the ship is almost finished.
Yes.
And my father's arm is getting better.
But we haven't really discussed our plans for America.
Yes, I've just been very busy with, um everything.
How much longer? Listen I might have some news about my daughter.
I thought you'd given up.
I had.
But I've spoken to the parish priest and he's told me that.
.
he might be able to help me with some church documents and We're never going to go, are we? I just need more time.
(SIGHS) Please, look at me.
I need more time.
I think it's better if I just make my own plans.
(DOOR OPENS) Sof--! (DOOR CLOSES) (SIGHS) Mr Johannson? Yes.
Samuel Johannson.
Eddy Hatton.
Office Manager.
Very nice to meet you, sir.
And you.
Let me show you to your office.
Please.
I spoke to Ismay.
They're already appointing certain crew members.
Well, they're not going to descend on us until we've completely finished the fitting-out, are they? Well, some will.
It's not such a bad thing.
If their equipment doesn't work, we don't wanna have to take the ship apart to fix it.
That's a (BREATHES HEAVILY) Are you alright? Ah, yes, it's the sum of being a long haul.
Or perhaps I'm just beginning to feel my age.
You mustn't take it all so much to heart.
(SIGHS) I wish it were as simple as that.
Lord Pirrie, sir.
Thank you.
Oh, another venue has turned me down.
I can't find anywhere for Churchill to speak.
Every hall in the city has now closed their doors to me.
Are you entirely surprised? All I want is a reasonable debate, a discourse to prevent violence.
And disaster.
Just a civilized argument in which neither side is afraid to hear the other side's point of view.
I'm afraid opinion is very entrenched.
Yes.
So much for liberal democracy.
Uncle, we do have a ship to fit.
(CHUCKLES) Don't worry, Thomas! I do remember Titanic! (SCOFFS) (SIGHS) I'm looking for Mr Hatton's office.
You'll find him in there.
Thank you, Miss ? Silvestri, sir.
Samuel Johannson.
I'm the, eh The accountant.
I know.
Sorry.
Mmm.
You should knock.
Oh sorry.
We haven't met.
Samuel Johannson.
Ah.
I'm one of Mr Morgan's men.
I'm here to confirm what we do and do NOT pay for.
I have a receipt from Colville and Sons to your department.
Yes.
Ingots.
Like gold? Steel.
That's good.
Steel right! Er, I was confused by the term.
Steel ingots because? Because it's my job.
Hmmm.
Well, looking at your other items of expenditure! (CHUCKLES) Have I come at a bad time? I have no wish to be intrusive but.
.
! Carry on.
He's been all over my department, sir.
No word of warning.
And he's demanded to see the books without a moment's notice.
And his manner, sir, most high-handed.
Like he was Mr Morgan himself! I'm sorry, but this gentleman is very much out of my hands.
Mr Johannson comes with Mr Morgan's authority.
Let's just co-operate as much as we can and sit it out.
It's like he doesn't trust us, sir.
Well, I do.
So even if you find the girl, what are you gonna do? You can't take her away from her family.
She deserves to know who her father is.
So one minute her family is what she's always known, the next minute you breeze in and turn it all upside down.
Maybe she thinks her daddy IS her daddy.
Are you gonna destroy that? What would you suggest I do? I think you should consider why you're doing this.
Is it selfishness or are you just trying to punish yourself for leaving Siobhán? Everyone deserves to know where they came from.
So you swan in, drop your bombshell and then you leave for America with your girlfriend? She should know! What if she needs help? Guilt is no use to you.
I wouldn't be in this bloody situation if it wasn't for you.
Go to America with Sofia, Marcus.
You have a choice.
No, I don't.
You took that away from me.
[COINS CLANK ON TABLE.]
Welcome to Belfast, Mr Churchill.
Thank you, Pirrie.
My admirers out in force, I see.
Yes, well, we'll do our very best to ensure your safety.
Oh, I can look after myself.
(CROWD YELLS IN PROTEST) Who is it? Eddy Hatton.
I've invited Churchill to dinner, would you like to come? I'd love to meet Churchill, but I won't actually be here.
Why not? Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you about.
I'm called to London.
The Board of Trade Advisory Committee on lifeboats.
So I can't really get out of it.
And nor should I.
No, I, no, I suppose not.
Besides, I want to go.
I want this business sorted.
This madness.
We build ships the size of Olympic and Titanic, and yet the one thing we're not bound to provide is the means to save the lives of everyone on board.
Well, then you must go.
Hmm.
Thank you.
Start from the outside and work your way in.
(CHUCKLES) Thank you.
So when are you planning on leaving? As soon as I can.
I want to live my life.
Not just exist.
In Belfast, I just exist.
Well, there's plenty of opportunity for a hard working girl in New York.
What do you want to do there? This is what I wanted to ask you.
Do you think my illustration is good enough? Could I work for a newspaper there? You've already been published in New York, haven't you? Yes.
(CHUCKLES) There's your answer.
It would be so wonderful.
New York is a long way from home and family.
Is there a man in your life? Can you say goodbye to all that? I've already done it.
In my heart at least.
Life is so much easier without a man.
We're free to follow our own ambitions.
Yes I believe that's true.
You know, one day I'd like to edit a major newspaper.
Does that sound crazy to you? Anything is possible in New York.
(CHUCKLES) You see, that's the spirit.
Besides, I think we need a little bit of crazy these days.
Hmm.
Look, if you're really going to do this, I'll write a letter of recommendation to my editor.
Thank you so much.
It's not a problem.
I can't promise anything but Don't look now but I think you've got an admirer.
Where? I said don't look.
Excuse me for a moment.
[AHEM.]
Please forgive the intrusion but I wonder if you'd like to join me for coffee in the drawing room after dinner? That's very kind.
Oh, sadly, I won't be able to join you.
There's someone I have to meet.
So I'll see you after dinner? Yes.
(CHUCKLES) It should be a rule everyone must come to New York at some time in their lives.
And we don't go in for getting lost.
Streets run north to south.
East to west.
How do you find your way around this city? I swear some of the streets here tie themselves in knots.
I'd get lost in New York.
I'm sure.
I don't think so.
You're too smart for that.
I should be going.
Of course.
I'm sorry.
Please, let me get you a cab.
Oh no, really.
I can walk.
Then may I escort you? You'd only get lost.
Thank you.
I'll see you in the shipyard.
What was wrong with meeting at the hotel? We have matters to discuss.
I can't risk being overheard.
What kind of matters? This is where I call in my favour, Joanna.
We need you to do a little job for us.
One that your unique position as an insider at the shipyard makes you perfectly qualified for.
What is it? The Admiralty plans for Harland & Wolf in the event of war.
Lord Pirrie would have them somewhere in his office.
You're serious? I've had confirmation from Germany that doing this will help your brother a great deal.
You are a bastard.
That's fair.
But I have my duty to perform and now so do you.
I will give you a special camera which you can use to photograph the plans.
Oh No, I haven't had a letter from Michael in a while now.
But I'm not worried about him.
He's a good head on his shoulders.
Aye, that's true.
I've been up to Walter's grave a few times.
Thank you.
I'd like to go up there myself later today to see him.
And I can't believe I'm never gonna see Conor again.
(SOBS) I know.
(KNOCK AT THE DOOR) Hello.
Hello, Emily.
Oh! Hello, baby Conor.
(BABY CRIES) How are things at home? Oh, you know.
Papa is still mad with me.
The baby cries all night.
And he puts him in a temper.
Oh, sure, that's normal.
You go off to work now and don't you be worrying.
Wee Conor will be fine here.
(SOFTLY) Bye.
(BABY CRIES) New York? Mm-hmm.
It's not certain yet but she's writing a letter.
Are you sure this is what you really want to do? Yes.
This is what I want.
God, you're so brave.
(CHUCKLES) No.
I'm fed up of living in a divided city.
Having to apologize for who I am.
Well, then, stay and fight.
Make a difference.
What's the point? No one trusts anyone here.
No.
I want to live my life in a place where there is hope.
And what about Mark? It's up to him now.
(CHUCKLES) Well, this is very jolly.
(CHUCKLES) I think it should be interesting.
Oh, yes, terribly.
Who's this Churchill fellow again? He's a politician from a very famous political family.
Mmm.
Hmm-mmm.
His grandfather is the Duke of Marlborough.
Well, la-di-dah! One thing we don't have in New York is pompous aristocrats pushing us around.
Oh.
And what about Mr Morgan? Good catch! But, you know, he earned the right.
(LOUD CHANTING FROM PROTESTORS) No! No! No! No! (MAN IN THE CROWD) No Home Rule! We don't want it! We'll fight against it! (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) Papists!! (CROWD SHOUTS IN PROTEST) Ladies and gentlemen, I have the honour to introduce one of the great parliamentarians of our time! Mr Winston Churchill, MP! (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) My lords, ladies and gentlemen.
(COMMOTION) It is a privilege to stand before you and speak a few words on the subject of Home Rule.
And it is my belief that an Ireland, free to govern its own affairs-- (CROWD CHANTS) 'Home Rule is Rome Rule' shall only be an enrichment and an added glory for the treasures of the British Empire.
Well, there's a guy who can talk.
That's a general view.
It was fun.
Here, Lord Pirrie, have one.
It's a damn fine Havana.
Thank you.
(CHUCKLES) I love a good cigar, one that is firm between the lips, draws easily, is neither too obnoxious nor too mild.
I'm really sorry about all this.
Oh, I expected it.
I do have a certain inflammatory effect, you know.
(GUNFIRE) Are you alright? I'm fine.
I'm absolutely fine.
I'm sorry I put you in danger.
Don't give it another thought.
One cannot expect these matters to be settled amicably, Pirrie.
Not here.
You remember the words of my late father? 'Ulster will fight'.
Yes.
Prophetic words.
He was right, my old man.
Usually was.
Are you alright, William? Joanna: It's all there.
Naval plans for the shipyard.
So, thank you, Joanna.
You've done your country a great service.
It's not my county any more than this is.
When do I get confirmation that my brother's been released? I need that confirmation, Florian You understand me? You have my word on that.
(SCOFFS) Your word? I'll be in touch.
Marcus! Just the man.
Good things are happening.
I've been poking around and I think we might have something.
What is it? You know one of the great things about the Catholic Church is we never throw anything away.
Ah-ha.
I found a letter offering the child to a family.
And you might like to look at this.
Your daughter's baptism certificate in her new name.
Sarah Byrne of County Clare.
That's what she's known as now.
Thank you.
You have no idea what this means to me.
So how are things in Belfast? We're on schedule.
Excellent.
Mr Morgan is pleased with the progress, I can tell.
Good.
Cables me every day.
The energy of the man! How he keeps his finger on every beating pulse of his empire.
I find running one business hard enough.
Quite.
Well, I suppose we should spend a couple of minutes talking about tomorrow.
Indeed.
Wretched business, this bloody committee.
Why can't they just leave us well alone? We all know how to build a ship.
Well, we always knew it was going to happen.
Even so.
When we started building this ship, the rules were quite simple.
Minimum twelve lifeboats, which we have observed.
But-- But nothing.
Now look here, Thomas.
Mr Morgan and I are hoping you will be the voice of good common sense tomorrow.
One thing that concerns me is that they may choose to make any new legislation retrospective.
Could cost us a bloody fortune.
I hope you'll point that out to the Commission.
Is that what you wish me to say on behalf of White Star? Not just White Star, old boy.
This is your bottom line, too.
Looking for something, mister? Yes, I'm looking for a man named Byrne.
Paddy Byrne? I, I don't know.
He had a daughter named Sarah.
That's your man.
Really? Do, do you know where he is? I do.
About six feet under.
Passed away some four years ago.
(SOFTLY) Right.
Friend of yours? No, no.
Would you happen to know where his wife and his daughter are? As far as I know, they went to Belfast.
Belfast? Yeah.
Paddy had a brother up there.
Sailor, I think he was.
Working for one of them ferry companies.
Paddy would talk about him from time to time.
Would you happen to know which company it was for? Christ, no.
No idea.
Good luck to ya.
(CHATTER) Gentlemen! Gentlemen, please.
Er, continue.
Surely, gentlemen, we're capable of regulating ourselves.
It's our opinion we're all responsible businessmen capable of making responsible decisions.
Most companies already provide more lifeboats than are required by statute.
Further regulation would simply be obstructive and unnecessary.
I must disagree.
The current regulations are woefully out of date.
Modern ships are four times the size of ships built when these regulations were formulated.
The number of lifeboats should reflect this natural progression.
My proposition would be that all ships be obliged to carry sufficient lifeboats for every passenger and crew member aboard.
It is common sense.
It is what the public expect.
And, frankly it is a duty of care.
that, we, as responsible businessmen, owe them.
(IN UNISON) Hear! Hear! Yes, we have compelling arguments on both sides of the debate.
But I think what is most important is that whatever rules we decide upon, they must apply equally to old and newly built vessels.
That would mean refitting every ship.
If necessary.
Either a ship is safe or it is not.
(SCOFFS) But that is utterly impractical.
That's not what I was proposing, Sir Norman.
I did not mean the legislation to be retrospective.
Did you not, Mr Andrews? No, I-- But surely, if a ship is safe, it is safe, and if it is not, it is not.
We must be consistent.
Then as I suggest it, leave it to the companies to decide upon their own solutions as regards lifeboats.
I'm sure we can all act in good faith.
(IN UNISON) Hear! Hear! Sofia! Oh, good, I thought I had missed you.
Oh! I received this this morning from my editor.
It's alright, it's good news.
He'll see you.
(SOFT CHUCKLE) I don't know how I can ever thank you.
You don't have to.
I made an appointment for you in April.
Is that too soon? It's perfect.
Good.
I know I've been away from the yard and the ship for a few days, but Churchill requires a lot of attention.
From what I hear, he got plenty of that.
You, too.
Yeah.
Fools! What do they gain by it, huh? The country's still Anyway, I've promised Andrews I'll remember Titanic.
There you are.
So, where was I? Oh, yes, I've been away.
So I haven't been able to shield you from that wretched Johannson fella.
Hmm.
Oh, you don't like him either? Honestly, the way he speaks to me, it's totally inappropriate.
Nasty, bossy little man.
I think that's the general opinion.
Yes, well, modern American business practice dictates! (COMMOTION) (SHOUTING) What's going on? Oh, for God's sake! Enough! Enough!! I've had enough of this bloody nonsense! (GASPS) (SHOUTS) Help!!! Can we get some help here? Don't stay too long, Thomas.
He's dying to see you, but he's still very tired.
Absolutely.
Ten minutes maximum.
Alright? If this is exhaustion, I don't think much of it.
A few day's rest and you'll be bounding about like a new born Lab.
(CHUCKLES) I scarcely think so.
Anyway, the quacks have prescribed two weeks rest and convalescence in London.
Sounds sensible.
Sounds incurably tedious.
(CHUCKLES) Er, listen, Thomas, in my absence, YOU shall serve as Chairman.
Me? Who else? Well It will aid my recovery considerably to know that the yard is in such good hands.
I won't let you down.
I know.
(SIGHS) Just get well.
I shall.
Anyway, I'm not ill.
I'm just bloody tired.
Which, as I've told you, is exhausting.
(SIGHS DEEPLY) Barker.
Bingham.
Blair.
Byrne.
Yes, eh, we do have a Mr Byrne in our employ, uh, Doctor Muir.
A Brendan Byrne, would that be the man you're looking for? Perhaps.
Do you have an address? Eh, yes, we do.
What is it? Well you may have it but, eh, you'll be waiting a while before you speak to Mr Byrne.
And why is that? He's, eh, he's at sea.
Uh, he's due back in Belfast on April the 1st.
(SIGHS) (CHUCKLES) He's looking down at this steak.
I mean, it's touching both sides of the plate, the steak's so big.
And he says (LAUGHS) He says, What part of the moose is that? (SLAMS TABLE HARD) (SLOWLY STOPS LAUGHING) Er, moose.
It's a big creature like a deer.
Oh.
Say, do you want to go dancing after this? Dancing? There must be somewhere we can dance.
Even here.
A nightclub? No.
Maybe not.
(CLEARS HIS THROAT) Do you dance? Not really.
No.
There are some great new dances in New York.
The Bunny Hop.
The Bear.
I'll show you.
I'm a great dancer.
Mm-hmm.
Well, why don't you have a little think, I'm, uh, excuse me for a moment.
(CLEARS HIS THROAT) Man: Parliament votes Home Rule Bill finally defeated! Only in the Belfast News Letter! Thank you, sir.
Good morning, Sir Henry.
Ah, Mr Stokes.
(CHUCKLES) Let us rejoice that Parliament has shown such good sense.
Absolutely, Sir Henry.
The people have spoken and so have Parliament.
The Union is safe.
If you ask me, Mr Churchill may come to regret crossing the floor.
No, Churchill won't let this rest.
He is a man of vision.
We may not share that vision, but I'm sure he will rise again.
I fear he needs watching.
Acting Chairman? Only acting.
Perhaps it's a rehearsal.
We shall see.
I think it's inevitable you take over here some day.
Who knows.
But if I do, I shall need strong support.
You know, Mark, I see a very bright future for you at this yard.
We've had our differences.
But you have been dogged, consistent and above all, you've given of yourself.
Titanic may seem everything now, but in a few short weeks we will commence on the next ship we have planned, Gigantic.
Just as great a challenge as Titanic, and I shall need someone like you beside me.
We've learnt a lot from this recent experience with the Olympic, and I would hope to put into practice some improvements.
I would like us to be a little more, eh, I don't know honest in our methods.
Don't leave us, Mark.
We need you.
We need you to build better ships, safer ships.
And I think this is where you belong.
And I think you know it.
Let us claim back engineering from the accountants.
You and I.
What do you say? He should be fine.
I fed him.
Of course he'll be fine.
Don't you be worried, my love.
You just leave him with me.
Thanks, Mary.
See you later.
It's too much for her.
A job, a baby She'll manage.
Sometimes I think we should have him, you know Thought about finding him somewhere else.
You don't mean that.
No, no, no, I don't.
Come on.
Look at the wee thing.
You've raised two girls on your own, Pietro.
You can manage this.
But I'm tired, Mary.
I don't think I could do this again.
Well, you wouldn't be alone this time.
Or at least you wouldn't have to be.
What is it now, Florian, you have news of my brother? I've orders that I should leave the country as soon as possible.
So, you should go, too.
Leave the country? I booked you a crossing aboard the Caledonia.
What the hell is that? Confidential documents.
No.
Florian, I have already done you your favour.
Joanna, just keep them safe.
We let you know who to give them to in New York.
Do this and I will see to your brother's release.
Gentlemen, I'm now going to read you the information I have on Titanic sea trials.
Commencement is at 6 a.
m.
I shall need two tugs to pilot the ship through Victoria Channel.
I assume, Jordan, you have that under control.
No problem, sir.
Uh, Captain Smith, would you like to inform us as to how the ship will be crewed? I will, sir.
We shall have a skeleton crew of 124, including all foremen and trimmers.
Good.
So in the morning, we shall be testing all the equipment including the wireless.
Then in strict order as arranged with the Board of Trade, we will be undertaking speed and handling trials, various turning and stop/start manoeuvres, including an emergency stop at 20 knots.
Is that not correct, Captain Smith? All agreed with Mr Carruthers who will be on board.
Then whilst Mr Carruthers is enjoying his lunch, we will conduct the running tests.
A two-hour cruise on open sea before returning approximately at 6 p.
m.
with, we hope, her Certificate of Seaworthiness.
Years of our endeavour measured and judged in a mere eight hours.
That is the world in which we now live.
(THE MEN CHUCKLE) Any news from Pirrie? Uh, not of late.
I daresay his mood will not be the lightest today.
Parliament has seen to that.
I expect not.
Poor fellow.
He must be very disappointed.
I hope this will not set his recovery back.
His heart, was it? Exhaustion.
Oh, really? A good man, many fine attributes but not always politically astute, I feel.
He's built up a great empire.
My God, I remember how this yard looked even in my father's day.
None of this was here, this new machinery, this new dry dock.
Now it's the finest yard in the world.
In terms of size at least.
That is true.
I believe that business practice should be as modern as the equipment of any business, don't you think so? If you say so.
I think we should still discuss the lifeboats.
Really? In what regard? I assume we're still installing the new davits we ordered? The ones we had made up by Wellands.
If you remember, we agreed four to a davit.
Twelve davits.
48 boats? Well, there's no need for that, old boy.
I thought we dealt with that in London.
What we agreed in London is that there will be no retrospective rule.
That does not excuse us from our duty to supply a responsible number lifeboats on any current ship.
Well, there will be 12 lifeboats and 4 collapsibles.
More than the regulations actually stipulate.
We are dealing with a ship of some 4,000 souls.
Oh, come on, Andrews.
Don't be such an old woman.
We don't want to clutter up the deck with lifeboats.
It'll spoil the fine line of the ship and only alarm the passengers.
I think this a folly.
Well, you're free to hold that opinion, but the matter is closed.
I hope I haven't misjudged you, Andrews.
How so? I quite thought of you as a pragmatist, not an idealist.
Or worse yet, a perfectionist.
God, no! Man: Alright, just move it in.
[SIGHS.]
When I consider the trials of dealing with men like Ismay, I'm astonished Pirrie didn't collapse earlier.
[SOFT CHUCKLE.]
Thankfully, my dealings with him have been quite brief.
You don't fancy having lunch with him today, do you? Take my place? No.
I'm quite happy having a sandwich in the yard.
Yeah, I know what you mean.
(CHUCKLES) I miss that.
If you don't mind me asking, er, how's Lord Pirrie doing? He's taking some time to recover.
When do you think he'll be back? Oh, I'm sure it'll be quite soon.
After all, we have a ship to sail.
(KNOCK AT THE DOOR) (DOOR OPENS) We do.
A message for you, sir.
Thank you.
You'll have to excuse me.
What is it? They've announced a coal strike in Britain.
If we have no coal, we cannot sail.
(SOFTLY) Yes.
(PIANO MUSIC) (VERY FAINT) Samuel Johannson, how are you doing? (SOFTLY) Right.
(CHILDREN LAUGHING) Good evening.
Ciao, Papa.
Violetta? She's asleep with the baby.
Ah.
I'm sorry.
I've been bad-tempered lately.
As usual.
Ah.
What a life.
What decisions.
What choices there are.
Hmm? I know.
(SIGHS) Sofia um, I've been thinking about Mary quite a lot.
And we had decided there will be an understanding between us.
'An understanding'? A romantic understanding.
Papa! You mind? No.
No, of course not.
I'd be delighted.
I thought maybe you Papa no one can replace Mama.
No one.
Hmmm.
And if you are happy I think I will be.
I'm so glad.
And I have something very important to tell you, too.
It's about my future.
And what I want for my life.
Yeah? I'm going to America.
Mr Morgan! Mr Morgan! Mr Morgan! Gentlemen, in eight days' time, we'll welcome the RMS Titanic to New York.
I hope you will take the opportunity to board her and wonder at her greatness and luxury.
And when you have seen her, hmmm, write about her! (CHATTER FROM CROWD)
Mr Andrews? Lord Pirrie requests your presence, sir.
Thank you, Chorley.
Excuse me.
Mmm.
(HAMMERING AND POUNDING FROM THE SHIPYARD) (DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES) Am I disturbing you? Yes, and I am so grateful! Well the ship is almost finished.
Yes.
And my father's arm is getting better.
But we haven't really discussed our plans for America.
Yes, I've just been very busy with, um everything.
How much longer? Listen I might have some news about my daughter.
I thought you'd given up.
I had.
But I've spoken to the parish priest and he's told me that.
.
he might be able to help me with some church documents and We're never going to go, are we? I just need more time.
(SIGHS) Please, look at me.
I need more time.
I think it's better if I just make my own plans.
(DOOR OPENS) Sof--! (DOOR CLOSES) (SIGHS) Mr Johannson? Yes.
Samuel Johannson.
Eddy Hatton.
Office Manager.
Very nice to meet you, sir.
And you.
Let me show you to your office.
Please.
I spoke to Ismay.
They're already appointing certain crew members.
Well, they're not going to descend on us until we've completely finished the fitting-out, are they? Well, some will.
It's not such a bad thing.
If their equipment doesn't work, we don't wanna have to take the ship apart to fix it.
That's a (BREATHES HEAVILY) Are you alright? Ah, yes, it's the sum of being a long haul.
Or perhaps I'm just beginning to feel my age.
You mustn't take it all so much to heart.
(SIGHS) I wish it were as simple as that.
Lord Pirrie, sir.
Thank you.
Oh, another venue has turned me down.
I can't find anywhere for Churchill to speak.
Every hall in the city has now closed their doors to me.
Are you entirely surprised? All I want is a reasonable debate, a discourse to prevent violence.
And disaster.
Just a civilized argument in which neither side is afraid to hear the other side's point of view.
I'm afraid opinion is very entrenched.
Yes.
So much for liberal democracy.
Uncle, we do have a ship to fit.
(CHUCKLES) Don't worry, Thomas! I do remember Titanic! (SCOFFS) (SIGHS) I'm looking for Mr Hatton's office.
You'll find him in there.
Thank you, Miss ? Silvestri, sir.
Samuel Johannson.
I'm the, eh The accountant.
I know.
Sorry.
Mmm.
You should knock.
Oh sorry.
We haven't met.
Samuel Johannson.
Ah.
I'm one of Mr Morgan's men.
I'm here to confirm what we do and do NOT pay for.
I have a receipt from Colville and Sons to your department.
Yes.
Ingots.
Like gold? Steel.
That's good.
Steel right! Er, I was confused by the term.
Steel ingots because? Because it's my job.
Hmmm.
Well, looking at your other items of expenditure! (CHUCKLES) Have I come at a bad time? I have no wish to be intrusive but.
.
! Carry on.
He's been all over my department, sir.
No word of warning.
And he's demanded to see the books without a moment's notice.
And his manner, sir, most high-handed.
Like he was Mr Morgan himself! I'm sorry, but this gentleman is very much out of my hands.
Mr Johannson comes with Mr Morgan's authority.
Let's just co-operate as much as we can and sit it out.
It's like he doesn't trust us, sir.
Well, I do.
So even if you find the girl, what are you gonna do? You can't take her away from her family.
She deserves to know who her father is.
So one minute her family is what she's always known, the next minute you breeze in and turn it all upside down.
Maybe she thinks her daddy IS her daddy.
Are you gonna destroy that? What would you suggest I do? I think you should consider why you're doing this.
Is it selfishness or are you just trying to punish yourself for leaving Siobhán? Everyone deserves to know where they came from.
So you swan in, drop your bombshell and then you leave for America with your girlfriend? She should know! What if she needs help? Guilt is no use to you.
I wouldn't be in this bloody situation if it wasn't for you.
Go to America with Sofia, Marcus.
You have a choice.
No, I don't.
You took that away from me.
[COINS CLANK ON TABLE.]
Welcome to Belfast, Mr Churchill.
Thank you, Pirrie.
My admirers out in force, I see.
Yes, well, we'll do our very best to ensure your safety.
Oh, I can look after myself.
(CROWD YELLS IN PROTEST) Who is it? Eddy Hatton.
I've invited Churchill to dinner, would you like to come? I'd love to meet Churchill, but I won't actually be here.
Why not? Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you about.
I'm called to London.
The Board of Trade Advisory Committee on lifeboats.
So I can't really get out of it.
And nor should I.
No, I, no, I suppose not.
Besides, I want to go.
I want this business sorted.
This madness.
We build ships the size of Olympic and Titanic, and yet the one thing we're not bound to provide is the means to save the lives of everyone on board.
Well, then you must go.
Hmm.
Thank you.
Start from the outside and work your way in.
(CHUCKLES) Thank you.
So when are you planning on leaving? As soon as I can.
I want to live my life.
Not just exist.
In Belfast, I just exist.
Well, there's plenty of opportunity for a hard working girl in New York.
What do you want to do there? This is what I wanted to ask you.
Do you think my illustration is good enough? Could I work for a newspaper there? You've already been published in New York, haven't you? Yes.
(CHUCKLES) There's your answer.
It would be so wonderful.
New York is a long way from home and family.
Is there a man in your life? Can you say goodbye to all that? I've already done it.
In my heart at least.
Life is so much easier without a man.
We're free to follow our own ambitions.
Yes I believe that's true.
You know, one day I'd like to edit a major newspaper.
Does that sound crazy to you? Anything is possible in New York.
(CHUCKLES) You see, that's the spirit.
Besides, I think we need a little bit of crazy these days.
Hmm.
Look, if you're really going to do this, I'll write a letter of recommendation to my editor.
Thank you so much.
It's not a problem.
I can't promise anything but Don't look now but I think you've got an admirer.
Where? I said don't look.
Excuse me for a moment.
[AHEM.]
Please forgive the intrusion but I wonder if you'd like to join me for coffee in the drawing room after dinner? That's very kind.
Oh, sadly, I won't be able to join you.
There's someone I have to meet.
So I'll see you after dinner? Yes.
(CHUCKLES) It should be a rule everyone must come to New York at some time in their lives.
And we don't go in for getting lost.
Streets run north to south.
East to west.
How do you find your way around this city? I swear some of the streets here tie themselves in knots.
I'd get lost in New York.
I'm sure.
I don't think so.
You're too smart for that.
I should be going.
Of course.
I'm sorry.
Please, let me get you a cab.
Oh no, really.
I can walk.
Then may I escort you? You'd only get lost.
Thank you.
I'll see you in the shipyard.
What was wrong with meeting at the hotel? We have matters to discuss.
I can't risk being overheard.
What kind of matters? This is where I call in my favour, Joanna.
We need you to do a little job for us.
One that your unique position as an insider at the shipyard makes you perfectly qualified for.
What is it? The Admiralty plans for Harland & Wolf in the event of war.
Lord Pirrie would have them somewhere in his office.
You're serious? I've had confirmation from Germany that doing this will help your brother a great deal.
You are a bastard.
That's fair.
But I have my duty to perform and now so do you.
I will give you a special camera which you can use to photograph the plans.
Oh No, I haven't had a letter from Michael in a while now.
But I'm not worried about him.
He's a good head on his shoulders.
Aye, that's true.
I've been up to Walter's grave a few times.
Thank you.
I'd like to go up there myself later today to see him.
And I can't believe I'm never gonna see Conor again.
(SOBS) I know.
(KNOCK AT THE DOOR) Hello.
Hello, Emily.
Oh! Hello, baby Conor.
(BABY CRIES) How are things at home? Oh, you know.
Papa is still mad with me.
The baby cries all night.
And he puts him in a temper.
Oh, sure, that's normal.
You go off to work now and don't you be worrying.
Wee Conor will be fine here.
(SOFTLY) Bye.
(BABY CRIES) New York? Mm-hmm.
It's not certain yet but she's writing a letter.
Are you sure this is what you really want to do? Yes.
This is what I want.
God, you're so brave.
(CHUCKLES) No.
I'm fed up of living in a divided city.
Having to apologize for who I am.
Well, then, stay and fight.
Make a difference.
What's the point? No one trusts anyone here.
No.
I want to live my life in a place where there is hope.
And what about Mark? It's up to him now.
(CHUCKLES) Well, this is very jolly.
(CHUCKLES) I think it should be interesting.
Oh, yes, terribly.
Who's this Churchill fellow again? He's a politician from a very famous political family.
Mmm.
Hmm-mmm.
His grandfather is the Duke of Marlborough.
Well, la-di-dah! One thing we don't have in New York is pompous aristocrats pushing us around.
Oh.
And what about Mr Morgan? Good catch! But, you know, he earned the right.
(LOUD CHANTING FROM PROTESTORS) No! No! No! No! (MAN IN THE CROWD) No Home Rule! We don't want it! We'll fight against it! (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) Papists!! (CROWD SHOUTS IN PROTEST) Ladies and gentlemen, I have the honour to introduce one of the great parliamentarians of our time! Mr Winston Churchill, MP! (CHEERING AND APPLAUSE) My lords, ladies and gentlemen.
(COMMOTION) It is a privilege to stand before you and speak a few words on the subject of Home Rule.
And it is my belief that an Ireland, free to govern its own affairs-- (CROWD CHANTS) 'Home Rule is Rome Rule' shall only be an enrichment and an added glory for the treasures of the British Empire.
Well, there's a guy who can talk.
That's a general view.
It was fun.
Here, Lord Pirrie, have one.
It's a damn fine Havana.
Thank you.
(CHUCKLES) I love a good cigar, one that is firm between the lips, draws easily, is neither too obnoxious nor too mild.
I'm really sorry about all this.
Oh, I expected it.
I do have a certain inflammatory effect, you know.
(GUNFIRE) Are you alright? I'm fine.
I'm absolutely fine.
I'm sorry I put you in danger.
Don't give it another thought.
One cannot expect these matters to be settled amicably, Pirrie.
Not here.
You remember the words of my late father? 'Ulster will fight'.
Yes.
Prophetic words.
He was right, my old man.
Usually was.
Are you alright, William? Joanna: It's all there.
Naval plans for the shipyard.
So, thank you, Joanna.
You've done your country a great service.
It's not my county any more than this is.
When do I get confirmation that my brother's been released? I need that confirmation, Florian You understand me? You have my word on that.
(SCOFFS) Your word? I'll be in touch.
Marcus! Just the man.
Good things are happening.
I've been poking around and I think we might have something.
What is it? You know one of the great things about the Catholic Church is we never throw anything away.
Ah-ha.
I found a letter offering the child to a family.
And you might like to look at this.
Your daughter's baptism certificate in her new name.
Sarah Byrne of County Clare.
That's what she's known as now.
Thank you.
You have no idea what this means to me.
So how are things in Belfast? We're on schedule.
Excellent.
Mr Morgan is pleased with the progress, I can tell.
Good.
Cables me every day.
The energy of the man! How he keeps his finger on every beating pulse of his empire.
I find running one business hard enough.
Quite.
Well, I suppose we should spend a couple of minutes talking about tomorrow.
Indeed.
Wretched business, this bloody committee.
Why can't they just leave us well alone? We all know how to build a ship.
Well, we always knew it was going to happen.
Even so.
When we started building this ship, the rules were quite simple.
Minimum twelve lifeboats, which we have observed.
But-- But nothing.
Now look here, Thomas.
Mr Morgan and I are hoping you will be the voice of good common sense tomorrow.
One thing that concerns me is that they may choose to make any new legislation retrospective.
Could cost us a bloody fortune.
I hope you'll point that out to the Commission.
Is that what you wish me to say on behalf of White Star? Not just White Star, old boy.
This is your bottom line, too.
Looking for something, mister? Yes, I'm looking for a man named Byrne.
Paddy Byrne? I, I don't know.
He had a daughter named Sarah.
That's your man.
Really? Do, do you know where he is? I do.
About six feet under.
Passed away some four years ago.
(SOFTLY) Right.
Friend of yours? No, no.
Would you happen to know where his wife and his daughter are? As far as I know, they went to Belfast.
Belfast? Yeah.
Paddy had a brother up there.
Sailor, I think he was.
Working for one of them ferry companies.
Paddy would talk about him from time to time.
Would you happen to know which company it was for? Christ, no.
No idea.
Good luck to ya.
(CHATTER) Gentlemen! Gentlemen, please.
Er, continue.
Surely, gentlemen, we're capable of regulating ourselves.
It's our opinion we're all responsible businessmen capable of making responsible decisions.
Most companies already provide more lifeboats than are required by statute.
Further regulation would simply be obstructive and unnecessary.
I must disagree.
The current regulations are woefully out of date.
Modern ships are four times the size of ships built when these regulations were formulated.
The number of lifeboats should reflect this natural progression.
My proposition would be that all ships be obliged to carry sufficient lifeboats for every passenger and crew member aboard.
It is common sense.
It is what the public expect.
And, frankly it is a duty of care.
that, we, as responsible businessmen, owe them.
(IN UNISON) Hear! Hear! Yes, we have compelling arguments on both sides of the debate.
But I think what is most important is that whatever rules we decide upon, they must apply equally to old and newly built vessels.
That would mean refitting every ship.
If necessary.
Either a ship is safe or it is not.
(SCOFFS) But that is utterly impractical.
That's not what I was proposing, Sir Norman.
I did not mean the legislation to be retrospective.
Did you not, Mr Andrews? No, I-- But surely, if a ship is safe, it is safe, and if it is not, it is not.
We must be consistent.
Then as I suggest it, leave it to the companies to decide upon their own solutions as regards lifeboats.
I'm sure we can all act in good faith.
(IN UNISON) Hear! Hear! Sofia! Oh, good, I thought I had missed you.
Oh! I received this this morning from my editor.
It's alright, it's good news.
He'll see you.
(SOFT CHUCKLE) I don't know how I can ever thank you.
You don't have to.
I made an appointment for you in April.
Is that too soon? It's perfect.
Good.
I know I've been away from the yard and the ship for a few days, but Churchill requires a lot of attention.
From what I hear, he got plenty of that.
You, too.
Yeah.
Fools! What do they gain by it, huh? The country's still Anyway, I've promised Andrews I'll remember Titanic.
There you are.
So, where was I? Oh, yes, I've been away.
So I haven't been able to shield you from that wretched Johannson fella.
Hmm.
Oh, you don't like him either? Honestly, the way he speaks to me, it's totally inappropriate.
Nasty, bossy little man.
I think that's the general opinion.
Yes, well, modern American business practice dictates! (COMMOTION) (SHOUTING) What's going on? Oh, for God's sake! Enough! Enough!! I've had enough of this bloody nonsense! (GASPS) (SHOUTS) Help!!! Can we get some help here? Don't stay too long, Thomas.
He's dying to see you, but he's still very tired.
Absolutely.
Ten minutes maximum.
Alright? If this is exhaustion, I don't think much of it.
A few day's rest and you'll be bounding about like a new born Lab.
(CHUCKLES) I scarcely think so.
Anyway, the quacks have prescribed two weeks rest and convalescence in London.
Sounds sensible.
Sounds incurably tedious.
(CHUCKLES) Er, listen, Thomas, in my absence, YOU shall serve as Chairman.
Me? Who else? Well It will aid my recovery considerably to know that the yard is in such good hands.
I won't let you down.
I know.
(SIGHS) Just get well.
I shall.
Anyway, I'm not ill.
I'm just bloody tired.
Which, as I've told you, is exhausting.
(SIGHS DEEPLY) Barker.
Bingham.
Blair.
Byrne.
Yes, eh, we do have a Mr Byrne in our employ, uh, Doctor Muir.
A Brendan Byrne, would that be the man you're looking for? Perhaps.
Do you have an address? Eh, yes, we do.
What is it? Well you may have it but, eh, you'll be waiting a while before you speak to Mr Byrne.
And why is that? He's, eh, he's at sea.
Uh, he's due back in Belfast on April the 1st.
(SIGHS) (CHUCKLES) He's looking down at this steak.
I mean, it's touching both sides of the plate, the steak's so big.
And he says (LAUGHS) He says, What part of the moose is that? (SLAMS TABLE HARD) (SLOWLY STOPS LAUGHING) Er, moose.
It's a big creature like a deer.
Oh.
Say, do you want to go dancing after this? Dancing? There must be somewhere we can dance.
Even here.
A nightclub? No.
Maybe not.
(CLEARS HIS THROAT) Do you dance? Not really.
No.
There are some great new dances in New York.
The Bunny Hop.
The Bear.
I'll show you.
I'm a great dancer.
Mm-hmm.
Well, why don't you have a little think, I'm, uh, excuse me for a moment.
(CLEARS HIS THROAT) Man: Parliament votes Home Rule Bill finally defeated! Only in the Belfast News Letter! Thank you, sir.
Good morning, Sir Henry.
Ah, Mr Stokes.
(CHUCKLES) Let us rejoice that Parliament has shown such good sense.
Absolutely, Sir Henry.
The people have spoken and so have Parliament.
The Union is safe.
If you ask me, Mr Churchill may come to regret crossing the floor.
No, Churchill won't let this rest.
He is a man of vision.
We may not share that vision, but I'm sure he will rise again.
I fear he needs watching.
Acting Chairman? Only acting.
Perhaps it's a rehearsal.
We shall see.
I think it's inevitable you take over here some day.
Who knows.
But if I do, I shall need strong support.
You know, Mark, I see a very bright future for you at this yard.
We've had our differences.
But you have been dogged, consistent and above all, you've given of yourself.
Titanic may seem everything now, but in a few short weeks we will commence on the next ship we have planned, Gigantic.
Just as great a challenge as Titanic, and I shall need someone like you beside me.
We've learnt a lot from this recent experience with the Olympic, and I would hope to put into practice some improvements.
I would like us to be a little more, eh, I don't know honest in our methods.
Don't leave us, Mark.
We need you.
We need you to build better ships, safer ships.
And I think this is where you belong.
And I think you know it.
Let us claim back engineering from the accountants.
You and I.
What do you say? He should be fine.
I fed him.
Of course he'll be fine.
Don't you be worried, my love.
You just leave him with me.
Thanks, Mary.
See you later.
It's too much for her.
A job, a baby She'll manage.
Sometimes I think we should have him, you know Thought about finding him somewhere else.
You don't mean that.
No, no, no, I don't.
Come on.
Look at the wee thing.
You've raised two girls on your own, Pietro.
You can manage this.
But I'm tired, Mary.
I don't think I could do this again.
Well, you wouldn't be alone this time.
Or at least you wouldn't have to be.
What is it now, Florian, you have news of my brother? I've orders that I should leave the country as soon as possible.
So, you should go, too.
Leave the country? I booked you a crossing aboard the Caledonia.
What the hell is that? Confidential documents.
No.
Florian, I have already done you your favour.
Joanna, just keep them safe.
We let you know who to give them to in New York.
Do this and I will see to your brother's release.
Gentlemen, I'm now going to read you the information I have on Titanic sea trials.
Commencement is at 6 a.
m.
I shall need two tugs to pilot the ship through Victoria Channel.
I assume, Jordan, you have that under control.
No problem, sir.
Uh, Captain Smith, would you like to inform us as to how the ship will be crewed? I will, sir.
We shall have a skeleton crew of 124, including all foremen and trimmers.
Good.
So in the morning, we shall be testing all the equipment including the wireless.
Then in strict order as arranged with the Board of Trade, we will be undertaking speed and handling trials, various turning and stop/start manoeuvres, including an emergency stop at 20 knots.
Is that not correct, Captain Smith? All agreed with Mr Carruthers who will be on board.
Then whilst Mr Carruthers is enjoying his lunch, we will conduct the running tests.
A two-hour cruise on open sea before returning approximately at 6 p.
m.
with, we hope, her Certificate of Seaworthiness.
Years of our endeavour measured and judged in a mere eight hours.
That is the world in which we now live.
(THE MEN CHUCKLE) Any news from Pirrie? Uh, not of late.
I daresay his mood will not be the lightest today.
Parliament has seen to that.
I expect not.
Poor fellow.
He must be very disappointed.
I hope this will not set his recovery back.
His heart, was it? Exhaustion.
Oh, really? A good man, many fine attributes but not always politically astute, I feel.
He's built up a great empire.
My God, I remember how this yard looked even in my father's day.
None of this was here, this new machinery, this new dry dock.
Now it's the finest yard in the world.
In terms of size at least.
That is true.
I believe that business practice should be as modern as the equipment of any business, don't you think so? If you say so.
I think we should still discuss the lifeboats.
Really? In what regard? I assume we're still installing the new davits we ordered? The ones we had made up by Wellands.
If you remember, we agreed four to a davit.
Twelve davits.
48 boats? Well, there's no need for that, old boy.
I thought we dealt with that in London.
What we agreed in London is that there will be no retrospective rule.
That does not excuse us from our duty to supply a responsible number lifeboats on any current ship.
Well, there will be 12 lifeboats and 4 collapsibles.
More than the regulations actually stipulate.
We are dealing with a ship of some 4,000 souls.
Oh, come on, Andrews.
Don't be such an old woman.
We don't want to clutter up the deck with lifeboats.
It'll spoil the fine line of the ship and only alarm the passengers.
I think this a folly.
Well, you're free to hold that opinion, but the matter is closed.
I hope I haven't misjudged you, Andrews.
How so? I quite thought of you as a pragmatist, not an idealist.
Or worse yet, a perfectionist.
God, no! Man: Alright, just move it in.
[SIGHS.]
When I consider the trials of dealing with men like Ismay, I'm astonished Pirrie didn't collapse earlier.
[SOFT CHUCKLE.]
Thankfully, my dealings with him have been quite brief.
You don't fancy having lunch with him today, do you? Take my place? No.
I'm quite happy having a sandwich in the yard.
Yeah, I know what you mean.
(CHUCKLES) I miss that.
If you don't mind me asking, er, how's Lord Pirrie doing? He's taking some time to recover.
When do you think he'll be back? Oh, I'm sure it'll be quite soon.
After all, we have a ship to sail.
(KNOCK AT THE DOOR) (DOOR OPENS) We do.
A message for you, sir.
Thank you.
You'll have to excuse me.
What is it? They've announced a coal strike in Britain.
If we have no coal, we cannot sail.
(SOFTLY) Yes.
(PIANO MUSIC) (VERY FAINT) Samuel Johannson, how are you doing? (SOFTLY) Right.
(CHILDREN LAUGHING) Good evening.
Ciao, Papa.
Violetta? She's asleep with the baby.
Ah.
I'm sorry.
I've been bad-tempered lately.
As usual.
Ah.
What a life.
What decisions.
What choices there are.
Hmm? I know.
(SIGHS) Sofia um, I've been thinking about Mary quite a lot.
And we had decided there will be an understanding between us.
'An understanding'? A romantic understanding.
Papa! You mind? No.
No, of course not.
I'd be delighted.
I thought maybe you Papa no one can replace Mama.
No one.
Hmmm.
And if you are happy I think I will be.
I'm so glad.
And I have something very important to tell you, too.
It's about my future.
And what I want for my life.
Yeah? I'm going to America.
Mr Morgan! Mr Morgan! Mr Morgan! Gentlemen, in eight days' time, we'll welcome the RMS Titanic to New York.
I hope you will take the opportunity to board her and wonder at her greatness and luxury.
And when you have seen her, hmmm, write about her! (CHATTER FROM CROWD)