0:00:02 > 0:00:09This programme contains some strong language and some scenes which some viewers may find upsetting.
0:00:33 > 0:00:36TRUCKS RUMBLE, DISTANT SHOUTING
0:00:59 > 0:01:01KEYS CLATTER
0:01:01 > 0:01:02Wakey-wakey!
0:01:04 > 0:01:06PLANES RUMBLE OVERHEAD
0:01:37 > 0:01:39WIND RUSTLES
0:01:44 > 0:01:45Nicholls.
0:01:49 > 0:01:51Nicholls, you can't keep doing this.
0:01:53 > 0:01:55I'm not trying to run away.
0:01:57 > 0:01:58It's peaceful.
0:02:00 > 0:02:02Clean.
0:02:02 > 0:02:03I know.
0:02:06 > 0:02:07Perhaps a few minutes more.
0:02:16 > 0:02:18WAVES CRASH
0:02:22 > 0:02:24Mother of God, it's freezin'!
0:02:24 > 0:02:26We are Irishmen serving the crown!
0:02:27 > 0:02:29For Irishmen serving the Crown
0:02:29 > 0:02:33there are only two temperatures...
0:02:33 > 0:02:34Too bastard hot
0:02:34 > 0:02:37and mildly refreshing!
0:02:39 > 0:02:41What is it?
0:02:41 > 0:02:43It's mildly refreshing, Sergeant McCafferty, Sir.
0:02:45 > 0:02:48This is how you heal, Peache.
0:02:48 > 0:02:50Salt water.
0:02:50 > 0:02:52Fresh air.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55Soon be out of hospital blues and back in khaki.
0:02:56 > 0:02:58He's up there again, Sergeant.
0:02:58 > 0:03:00Eyes front, son.
0:03:02 > 0:03:05There's nothing to be done about him. He brought it on himself.
0:03:05 > 0:03:07He's a ghost.
0:03:24 > 0:03:25They won't look at me.
0:03:25 > 0:03:27Don't look at them.
0:03:27 > 0:03:28You're dawdling, Berwick!
0:03:28 > 0:03:31Sorry, Sister.
0:03:43 > 0:03:45He's going to be fine, isn't he?
0:03:46 > 0:03:47Course.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53Right. Feeling better for some sea air?
0:03:55 > 0:03:57Let's have a look at this hand then.
0:03:59 > 0:04:01It was an accident.
0:04:01 > 0:04:04Major Yelland operated on me in the field.
0:04:05 > 0:04:08He's got my file, he knows it was an accident.
0:04:08 > 0:04:11You do believe me, don't you?
0:04:15 > 0:04:17It's obviously self-inflicted, Sir.
0:04:17 > 0:04:18Textbook.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21Black scorch marks on what's left of his hand
0:04:21 > 0:04:23and the inside of the wrist.
0:04:23 > 0:04:25He'd held a detonator and set it off.
0:04:25 > 0:04:28And you're certain, beyond question, that this was no accident?
0:04:28 > 0:04:30I'm sending a man for court martial.
0:04:30 > 0:04:31I have to be sure.
0:04:31 > 0:04:34If he's found guilty, he could be shot.
0:04:34 > 0:04:37It was deliberate. I'm certain.
0:04:37 > 0:04:39Saw a lot of these in my last posting.
0:04:39 > 0:04:44I've something of a reputation for being able to sniff out a coward.
0:04:48 > 0:04:50How's his demeanour on the ward?
0:04:50 > 0:04:52Subdued, Sir. Very anxious.
0:04:52 > 0:04:53Well, of course he's subdued.
0:04:53 > 0:04:56He doesn't want to invite the contempt of his fellows.
0:04:56 > 0:04:58And of course he's anxious, he's been caught!
0:04:58 > 0:05:02Well, thank you, Yelland. Your testimony is very clear.
0:05:02 > 0:05:06How fortunate you should have been with us at this difficult time.
0:05:07 > 0:05:11There's a rumour that it's to be roast duck tonight.
0:05:13 > 0:05:15Eh, yes, that's quite correct.
0:05:15 > 0:05:18Haven't had a decent feed since I've been here.
0:05:18 > 0:05:20Looking forward to it.
0:05:20 > 0:05:22Colonel.
0:05:22 > 0:05:23Matron.
0:05:30 > 0:05:32Roland...
0:05:33 > 0:05:35This is not my choice.
0:05:35 > 0:05:37I know.
0:05:46 > 0:05:47Sir.
0:05:56 > 0:05:58Personally, I'd give the man the benefit of the doubt.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04Here, give this to Matron when she asks for them.
0:06:04 > 0:06:06Observations on Private Albert Nicholls,
0:06:06 > 0:06:08soon to be known as "the prisoner".
0:06:08 > 0:06:11In my view, it's a common enough injury.
0:06:11 > 0:06:12It could have been an accident.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14Maybe it'll make a difference.
0:06:14 > 0:06:17Worth a punt, as the bookies say.
0:06:18 > 0:06:21It's monstrous. It's barbaric.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23If they shoot him, then it's cold-blooded murder,
0:06:23 > 0:06:25there's no other name for it.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29Watch what you say.
0:06:29 > 0:06:31Watch who's around when you say it.
0:06:31 > 0:06:32You don't care what you say?
0:06:32 > 0:06:34No-one takes me seriously.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37But you are rather serious. It raises eyebrows.
0:06:37 > 0:06:39Be wise.
0:06:45 > 0:06:47Help! Please help!
0:06:47 > 0:06:48My daughter's hurt.
0:06:49 > 0:06:51Help me, she's been burned.
0:06:51 > 0:06:53There was nowhere else for me to take her.
0:06:53 > 0:06:56- What's your name? - It's Mathilde. Mathilde Tillens.
0:06:58 > 0:07:02It was a pan of milk on the stove, the handle came away and...
0:07:02 > 0:07:04We are from Belgium.
0:07:04 > 0:07:07We escaped after the invasion
0:07:09 > 0:07:11You are a brave little girl.
0:07:13 > 0:07:14Not a peep.
0:07:14 > 0:07:17She doesn't understand any English.
0:07:20 > 0:07:24Vous etes une petite fille tres courageuse.
0:07:34 > 0:07:36I can feel another bit, Sergeant.
0:07:36 > 0:07:38That's shrapnel for you.
0:07:38 > 0:07:40Known men to be picking it out of themselves
0:07:40 > 0:07:42ten years after South Africa.
0:07:42 > 0:07:43Tell the Captain.
0:07:49 > 0:07:52If you're coming through here again, stick to the path.
0:07:52 > 0:07:54You worried I'll get lost, Sergeant?
0:07:54 > 0:07:56Just stick to the path.
0:07:59 > 0:08:00Dirty queers.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27INDISTINCT CONVERSATIONS
0:08:31 > 0:08:33Hat off.
0:08:33 > 0:08:34Shoulders straight.
0:08:34 > 0:08:37This is a real warrior you're meeting now.
0:08:45 > 0:08:47Aloysius McCafferty!
0:08:49 > 0:08:52Peache, meet Sister Quayle.
0:08:52 > 0:08:55Saved my life at Ladysmith.
0:08:55 > 0:08:59Walked out in front of the guns like they were nothing at all.
0:08:59 > 0:09:01Who is this?
0:09:01 > 0:09:03Lance Corporal Enda Peache. One of my lads.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05He looks a likely sort!
0:09:05 > 0:09:07Eight months in and mentioned in despatches twice.
0:09:07 > 0:09:09Oh, he's got the stuff!
0:09:09 > 0:09:11Lead his own men under the British flag one day.
0:09:11 > 0:09:14You're allowed to smile, young man.
0:09:14 > 0:09:17Yes, Sister. Thank you, Sergeant.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20I'm giving him an education, Sister.
0:09:20 > 0:09:22He knows what courage is.
0:09:22 > 0:09:26But I want him to see that a true soldier isn't always in khaki.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43Has she always been so quiet?
0:09:43 > 0:09:44Why?
0:09:44 > 0:09:47It's just unusual for a child to make no noise at all.
0:09:47 > 0:09:51She's been silent from a baby.
0:09:51 > 0:09:54I see. I'm sorry if it sounded like I was prying.
0:09:54 > 0:09:56No.
0:09:56 > 0:09:58You'll have to keep the burns covered,
0:09:58 > 0:10:01I should be able to come out and re-dress the wounds for you.
0:10:01 > 0:10:02No, leave that!
0:10:08 > 0:10:11It's only poetry.
0:10:11 > 0:10:12I'm not a spy.
0:10:14 > 0:10:15Sister?
0:10:20 > 0:10:22Come and see me when you've finished.
0:10:22 > 0:10:24Of course, Matron.
0:10:31 > 0:10:34- I would be very careful who sees that.- I am.
0:10:34 > 0:10:36Thank you.
0:10:36 > 0:10:38Don't thank me. Just be careful.
0:10:44 > 0:10:47My sergeant says I've got a great future in the army.
0:10:47 > 0:10:49- Oh, I can see that!- "He's got the stuff," he said - about me.
0:10:49 > 0:10:51- Did you go red?- I bet you did!
0:10:51 > 0:10:54I was trying to be all, erm...
0:10:54 > 0:10:57But I was grinning all over me face.
0:10:57 > 0:10:58You'll make Corporal tomorrow!
0:10:58 > 0:11:02Ah, stop it. I'll be getting a swelled head.
0:11:02 > 0:11:04Oh, I can see that!
0:11:04 > 0:11:05Peache.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16It's from my mother.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19The priest said at Mass that no true son of Ireland
0:11:19 > 0:11:21would wear the uniform of a British oppressor.
0:11:21 > 0:11:23Then everyone turned round and looked at her.
0:11:23 > 0:11:26Got no right to call himself a priest then, has he?
0:11:26 > 0:11:27Shame on him.
0:11:27 > 0:11:30Your mother's proud of you.
0:11:30 > 0:11:32And only the true Irish boys wear khaki.
0:11:32 > 0:11:35Sergeant. She's had brick thrown through her window!
0:11:35 > 0:11:37She's scared.
0:11:37 > 0:11:40My brothers and sisters have other kids jeering at them!
0:11:40 > 0:11:42It's just troublemakers, son. Take no notice.
0:11:42 > 0:11:45I need to show my face, shut them all up.
0:11:45 > 0:11:48I need to take my leave, Sergeant. I need to go home.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50Put this right.
0:11:50 > 0:11:54Listen, Peache, don't make a fuss...
0:11:54 > 0:11:55but that's not going to happen.
0:11:55 > 0:11:57What do you mean?
0:11:57 > 0:12:01Army orders. There's nothing to be done about it.
0:12:01 > 0:12:05- There must be something, I'm owed! - Don't make a show of yourself!
0:12:07 > 0:12:08It's not going to happen.
0:12:10 > 0:12:12Take it on the chin.
0:12:12 > 0:12:15Write to your mother, tell her to walk tall, hold her head high.
0:12:17 > 0:12:18That's all you can do, son.
0:12:25 > 0:12:27Go and see about that shrapnel.
0:12:29 > 0:12:33Sergeant McCafferty, Sister Quayle would like to invite you for tea.
0:12:38 > 0:12:41Corporal Wingfield, come back inside!
0:12:41 > 0:12:43Those boys are in my trees again!
0:12:43 > 0:12:45They're devils for thieving!
0:12:45 > 0:12:47Bloody devils!
0:12:47 > 0:12:49There are no boys and nothing is being stolen,
0:12:49 > 0:12:51come back inside, please.
0:12:59 > 0:13:00Christ!
0:13:03 > 0:13:06This wound is supposed to be irrigated every two hours
0:13:06 > 0:13:07or it gets re-infected.
0:13:07 > 0:13:10It hasn't been done and now...
0:13:10 > 0:13:12it's re-infected!
0:13:12 > 0:13:13Why hasn't it been done?
0:13:13 > 0:13:16Major Yelland said to let the patient sleep, Captain.
0:13:17 > 0:13:20Is that Major Yelland's name on here?
0:13:20 > 0:13:22He's the Senior Officer.
0:13:22 > 0:13:25We just do what we're told.
0:13:25 > 0:13:27No, you don't. And that's the problem.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30Get him prepped for theatre.
0:13:30 > 0:13:32Sir. Sir, can I talk to you about this?
0:13:38 > 0:13:40I'm going to kill Yelland!
0:13:40 > 0:13:43I'll help you dig the grave and obviously it will be our secret.
0:13:44 > 0:13:48Tom, go to the boss, he's the only one who can do anything about it.
0:13:48 > 0:13:50I'll fight my own battles.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52That's exactly what I'm worried about.
0:14:00 > 0:14:01Come on.
0:14:04 > 0:14:06SHE GRUNTS
0:14:15 > 0:14:17I'm sorry, I didn't know anyone else was in here.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26Actually...
0:14:30 > 0:14:33I don't quite know how to say this, so I'm just going to say it.
0:14:34 > 0:14:38I wasn't meant to be at the beach, let alone swimming.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42Somebody else might have reported me or gossiped.
0:14:42 > 0:14:44You've clearly done neither, so...
0:14:46 > 0:14:48I appreciate your discretion.
0:14:57 > 0:14:58What you do is of no concern to me.
0:15:08 > 0:15:09SHE SCOFFS
0:15:20 > 0:15:21Ah! A lovely touch.
0:15:21 > 0:15:23Thank you.
0:15:23 > 0:15:25You're welcome, Sister.
0:15:27 > 0:15:29You're proving such a help to me, Berwick.
0:15:35 > 0:15:40Sergeant, please excuse the informality of the surroundings.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43It's a privilege to talk to you anywhere, Sister.
0:15:51 > 0:15:53You must know what's happening.
0:15:53 > 0:15:55You must know. What have they decided?
0:15:55 > 0:15:57Why aren't you telling me what they've decided?
0:15:57 > 0:16:00I can't tell you anything because I haven't been told myself.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03You don't believe this was an accident, do you?
0:16:03 > 0:16:06You have to believe me, you have to help me, you have to...
0:16:06 > 0:16:10Private Nicholls, you must go back to the ward now.
0:16:11 > 0:16:15HE SIGHS
0:16:17 > 0:16:20I only joined up because my girl gave me a white feather.
0:16:22 > 0:16:25I thought I'd die from the shame of it.
0:16:28 > 0:16:30Look at me now.
0:16:45 > 0:16:47Ma petite, assieds-toi.
0:16:47 > 0:16:49A bientot, ma petite.
0:16:49 > 0:16:50You're very kind.
0:16:50 > 0:16:53It is unusual, not everybody would have been so.
0:16:55 > 0:16:58I'm a teacher... II was a teacher.
0:17:00 > 0:17:02When we run, we run with books.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07We pick up the ones that mean the most.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10I think you should get rid of it.
0:17:16 > 0:17:18Goodbye.
0:17:27 > 0:17:29What was the problem with the man and his daughter?
0:17:29 > 0:17:31Burns and shock.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34I said I'd go and see them at their home.
0:17:34 > 0:17:36I should have asked you first.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38No, the Colonel will sign you out.
0:17:38 > 0:17:42We have a responsibility, especially to the refugees.
0:17:42 > 0:17:46The Germans went through that country like a pack of wolves.
0:17:46 > 0:17:47They only have us to turn to.
0:17:47 > 0:17:50Yes, Matron.
0:18:04 > 0:18:09I see they decorated you for your distinguished service, Sister.
0:18:09 > 0:18:11Yes, the Royal Red Cross.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13It's the sound of the cannon fire for you and me.
0:18:16 > 0:18:18Sets the heart racing.
0:18:18 > 0:18:20It does indeed.
0:18:20 > 0:18:23That lad Peache now, he's the same.
0:18:23 > 0:18:24Runs to it, he does.
0:18:24 > 0:18:25Fearless.
0:18:27 > 0:18:31You wait all your life for a lad like that, turn him into a soldier.
0:18:32 > 0:18:35I look at him and I see me,
0:18:35 > 0:18:37but better.
0:18:37 > 0:18:39Did you not have your own sons?
0:18:39 > 0:18:41There was a wife.
0:18:41 > 0:18:43But she died a while back.
0:18:43 > 0:18:44Typhus.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48And I won't have my own sons now, I know that.
0:18:50 > 0:18:53Beware of proteges, Aloysius.
0:18:54 > 0:18:58They can slide a blade between the ribs like no-one else.
0:18:59 > 0:19:01He's had news from home.
0:19:03 > 0:19:04The old trouble stirring.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09Hotheads rebelling against the British Crown.
0:19:09 > 0:19:12He's owed leave, and I know I should argue for it,
0:19:12 > 0:19:14but I...
0:19:16 > 0:19:18..don't want him to get caught up.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22I'm worried he may not come back.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25You're not his father, you're his sergeant.
0:19:25 > 0:19:27Sons become defiant.
0:19:27 > 0:19:29A soldier obeys.
0:19:31 > 0:19:32Be his sergeant.
0:19:36 > 0:19:39She wants me to come home. Could I not get my leave on compassionate grounds?
0:19:39 > 0:19:41Peache, is your mother on her deathbed?
0:19:41 > 0:19:44She's worried sick. They're calling me a traitor.
0:19:44 > 0:19:46But she's not on her deathbed.
0:19:46 > 0:19:48I can see it's upsetting, but I'm sure it'll blow over.
0:19:48 > 0:19:50Is there not a proper priest I can talk to?
0:19:50 > 0:19:53He has Enteric Fever.
0:19:53 > 0:19:54I'm doing his job.
0:19:54 > 0:19:55Do you call this doing a job?
0:19:57 > 0:20:01- You're not even looking at me! - Have a care, young man.
0:20:03 > 0:20:05Argh!
0:20:09 > 0:20:12HE GROANS AND PANTS
0:20:14 > 0:20:18Christ, are you still experimenting on this poor blighter?
0:20:18 > 0:20:19Hasn't he been through enough?
0:20:21 > 0:20:23What a mess.
0:20:23 > 0:20:24Putrefaction.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28Stinks like an open grave.
0:20:28 > 0:20:31Hurts like hell, I expect.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34Prefer a nice clean stump, wouldn't you?
0:20:34 > 0:20:37Of course you would. You're a bloody torturer, Gillan.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39I suppose this is the sort of backstreet butchery
0:20:39 > 0:20:41that passes for surgery where you come from!
0:20:41 > 0:20:43You're in my light, Sir.
0:20:48 > 0:20:50HE GROANS
0:20:55 > 0:20:56Bloody amateurs.
0:20:57 > 0:20:59What have we got here, then?
0:21:05 > 0:21:09- Morning, Miss Berwick.- Morning. - Rosalie, you can't keep avoiding me.
0:21:09 > 0:21:10I'm sorry, I'm busy.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18Miss Trevelyan, I'm still waiting for that smile.
0:21:18 > 0:21:21You know what they say about banging your head against a brick wall?
0:21:21 > 0:21:22It feels wonderful when you stop.
0:21:22 > 0:21:24Well, then my head must be made for brick walls
0:21:24 > 0:21:26because I always feel pretty wonderful!
0:21:28 > 0:21:30He's always getting out of his bed,
0:21:30 > 0:21:32just steer him back.
0:21:32 > 0:21:36And try and stop him from getting his fingers under his bandage
0:21:36 > 0:21:38because he scratches his head and it's just...
0:21:40 > 0:21:42It's just that I'm not getting anything done.
0:21:43 > 0:21:44I'll try my best.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46You're a brick.
0:21:54 > 0:21:56You asked to see me?
0:21:56 > 0:21:59I want this to stop. This.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01Major Yelland says it should be cut off.
0:22:01 > 0:22:03No.
0:22:05 > 0:22:08No, it's the right kind of wound for this new treatment.
0:22:08 > 0:22:10What about me? I don't want it.
0:22:10 > 0:22:12- It's not up to you. - That Major's right.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14This is just an experiment to you.
0:22:14 > 0:22:17I'm just an experiment. You're treating me like a lump of meat!
0:22:17 > 0:22:20Do you know what this is like? It's knives, it's razors!
0:22:20 > 0:22:22- Every two hours... - You bastard!- Mostyn!
0:22:22 > 0:22:23I don't care!
0:22:30 > 0:22:32Every two hours, without fail.
0:22:32 > 0:22:34I don't care what he says,
0:22:34 > 0:22:36I don't care what Major Yelland says.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40I don't care who walks on this ward and says different!
0:22:40 > 0:22:42Every two hours.
0:22:44 > 0:22:46Bastard!
0:22:46 > 0:22:47You bastard!
0:22:47 > 0:22:49You stone-hearted bastard!
0:23:12 > 0:23:13What is it?
0:23:13 > 0:23:17You look a bit grey. I don't mean to be rude.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19I'm just a bit under the weather.
0:23:19 > 0:23:20One more behind me, Sister.
0:23:34 > 0:23:37Let's make a start, shall we?
0:23:42 > 0:23:46What's that you've got there?
0:23:49 > 0:23:52They're mine! My trophies.
0:23:59 > 0:24:01Best get on with the beds.
0:24:02 > 0:24:04The rest of you, as you were.
0:24:10 > 0:24:11Are you all right?
0:24:12 > 0:24:14I'm sorry. I...
0:24:16 > 0:24:18I...
0:24:18 > 0:24:22- I can't apologise enough.- No. - Never in my professional life...
0:24:26 > 0:24:28I would if I were you. Steady the buffs and all that.
0:24:38 > 0:24:39It's a truly nasty sight.
0:24:41 > 0:24:44But it honestly doesn't do to think about it too closely.
0:24:44 > 0:24:46How can you not?
0:24:46 > 0:24:47Erm, willpower and gin.
0:24:50 > 0:24:54Really, don't let your mind loose on it.
0:24:54 > 0:24:58Tell yourself that at least it's a few less shooting at us.
0:24:58 > 0:25:00That is the only way to think about it.
0:25:00 > 0:25:03Them and us.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07If you think about it any other way, you'll end up rocking in a corner.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27I need to get home, Sir. Can you help me?
0:25:27 > 0:25:30There's nothing I can say that will make a difference.
0:25:30 > 0:25:32Your sergeant needs to speak for you.
0:25:32 > 0:25:35He said there's nothing to be done.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37Well, that's it, then.
0:25:39 > 0:25:41Why will no-one help me?
0:25:41 > 0:25:44Is this what they call fair treatment in the British Army?
0:25:44 > 0:25:46Don't do anything stupid.
0:25:47 > 0:25:48No, Sir.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06I've just heard there'll be a court martial. They'll take him tonight.
0:26:08 > 0:26:10That was very quick.
0:26:10 > 0:26:12Why delay?
0:26:13 > 0:26:15No-one will really say anything,
0:26:15 > 0:26:17there'll just be an empty bed.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19It scares the men even more.
0:26:19 > 0:26:20He'll be moved.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25He'll have company until they arrive.
0:26:25 > 0:26:31All that work and skill to get a man sufficiently healed
0:26:31 > 0:26:33to stand trial for cowardice.
0:26:33 > 0:26:37Roland, our feelings will do him no good at all.
0:26:39 > 0:26:41Not now.
0:26:48 > 0:26:51This is all the shrapnel I've got in me.
0:26:51 > 0:26:53But do I get what I'm owed?
0:26:53 > 0:26:58No. That's the thanks you get for risking your life.
0:26:59 > 0:27:00Aye, you're right.
0:27:00 > 0:27:03They will make you all sorts of promises to get you to put this on,
0:27:03 > 0:27:04but they're liars.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07There's one rule for us and it's another for them.
0:27:07 > 0:27:08And the rule for us is shite,
0:27:08 > 0:27:11because that's what they think we are.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13What you going to do about it, then?
0:27:14 > 0:27:16- Peache... - MEN: Watch it.
0:27:16 > 0:27:18You rabble-rousing?
0:27:18 > 0:27:20I'm telling the truth.
0:27:20 > 0:27:22You're here to do your duty.
0:27:22 > 0:27:24All of you.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27Put that in your minds.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29The straight and narrow.
0:27:29 > 0:27:31You're here to fight for King and country!
0:27:31 > 0:27:32He's not the king of my country.
0:27:32 > 0:27:34What did you say?
0:27:34 > 0:27:39I said, he's not the king of my fuckin' country!
0:27:42 > 0:27:44Easy. Come on, lads. No need for that.
0:27:44 > 0:27:46You're going the right way
0:27:46 > 0:27:48about getting yourself into a lot of trouble.
0:27:48 > 0:27:51The kind of trouble that I can't do anything about!
0:27:51 > 0:27:53- And I don't want that.- Enough, now.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56HE SOBS
0:27:56 > 0:27:58So learn your lesson, son.
0:28:05 > 0:28:07HE WHIMPERS
0:28:07 > 0:28:09All right, get up.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11He got him going!
0:28:32 > 0:28:33It's decided, then?
0:28:35 > 0:28:38It is. We'll move you now.
0:28:39 > 0:28:41Corporal Foley will help you with your uniform
0:28:41 > 0:28:43and he'll be staying with you.
0:28:48 > 0:28:50You are going to be sensible, aren't you?
0:28:50 > 0:28:52For the sake of the other lads.
0:29:01 > 0:29:05Sister, I don't understand how you have time to come here.
0:29:06 > 0:29:10Children are important. I can see that Mathilde's suffered.
0:29:13 > 0:29:14That is so.
0:29:16 > 0:29:18But your kindness is overwhelming.
0:29:22 > 0:29:25I'm just doing my job.
0:29:25 > 0:29:27It was more than that.
0:29:27 > 0:29:28You have shown me trust.
0:29:30 > 0:29:33I don't think reading German poetry makes you a spy.
0:29:34 > 0:29:37But some people would have reported it.
0:29:39 > 0:29:41Life would have been very difficult.
0:29:44 > 0:29:46I'm not those people.
0:29:52 > 0:29:55Mathilde has not been silent from a baby.
0:29:58 > 0:30:00Before, she speaks.
0:30:03 > 0:30:05She doesn't stop.
0:30:05 > 0:30:07I don't understand.
0:30:07 > 0:30:09Her mother, my wife, was German.
0:30:12 > 0:30:14When we came here,
0:30:14 > 0:30:16I said to Mathilde...
0:30:19 > 0:30:24..that she must never tell anyone about that half of her.
0:30:27 > 0:30:30About her mother.
0:30:31 > 0:30:35And she just stops speaking completely.
0:30:37 > 0:30:40Too afraid to betray us.
0:30:43 > 0:30:45Not one single sound.
0:30:51 > 0:30:53This world...
0:30:57 > 0:30:59Sister?
0:30:59 > 0:31:02Forgive me, but you don't look very well.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05Has something happened?
0:31:19 > 0:31:21Fucking coward.
0:31:21 > 0:31:23- Hope they shoot you!- Sergeant.
0:31:23 > 0:31:24Sir?
0:31:24 > 0:31:27Your Lance Corporal came to see me.
0:31:27 > 0:31:28He's getting himself worked up.
0:31:30 > 0:31:31It's been dealt with, Sir.
0:31:35 > 0:31:38TRUMPET PLAYS
0:31:38 > 0:31:41I've seen some terrible things.
0:31:41 > 0:31:43And they tell you not to think about it,
0:31:43 > 0:31:44like you can turn your mind off.
0:31:44 > 0:31:46But I can't, I can't...
0:31:48 > 0:31:49..stop thinking.
0:31:54 > 0:31:56You have someone fighting?
0:32:04 > 0:32:06When did you last hear from him?
0:32:09 > 0:32:11I...
0:32:12 > 0:32:14I haven't heard from him.
0:32:14 > 0:32:16But you're with the Army.
0:32:16 > 0:32:20They can find out for you, you have his name, his regiment -
0:32:20 > 0:32:22go to them, ask them. Then at least you'll know.
0:32:22 > 0:32:26Not knowing is so much worse. They'll help you, ask them.
0:32:26 > 0:32:31- Why would you not go straight to them?- Thank you for your coffee, Mr Tillens, I really should go.
0:32:31 > 0:32:32Unless...
0:32:34 > 0:32:36..he was on the wrong side.
0:32:40 > 0:32:44You would not go to the Army if he was on the wrong side.
0:32:48 > 0:32:49Sit.
0:32:51 > 0:32:53Is he German?
0:32:53 > 0:32:55I knew him in England before the war.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01You have heard nothing?
0:33:03 > 0:33:04I don't...
0:33:06 > 0:33:09I don't know if he's alive or dead
0:33:09 > 0:33:10and I...
0:33:10 > 0:33:14I think the not knowing will make me mad.
0:33:28 > 0:33:31There are still ways of getting letters through.
0:33:33 > 0:33:35A reply can come for you, here.
0:33:41 > 0:33:42Write to him.
0:34:12 > 0:34:15INDISTINCT CONVERSATIONS
0:34:17 > 0:34:20I'm going to get as much down me as possible before Yelland arrives
0:34:20 > 0:34:22and hogs the lion's share, as usual.
0:34:24 > 0:34:27Gentlemen, Colonel Brett sends his apologies,
0:34:27 > 0:34:30so I will be in the chair tonight.
0:34:32 > 0:34:33Why don't we toddle off
0:34:33 > 0:34:36and get blind-stinking drunk somewhere else, eh? Anywhere else.
0:34:36 > 0:34:37Gillan!
0:34:37 > 0:34:39It's from the outside in.
0:34:41 > 0:34:43- Come on.- We're staying.
0:34:51 > 0:34:54Oh, a handkerchief. Such delicate work.
0:34:58 > 0:35:00Is this for the coward?
0:35:01 > 0:35:03Don't call him that.
0:35:04 > 0:35:06But that's what he is.
0:35:07 > 0:35:09Margaret, some men just aren't soldiers.
0:35:09 > 0:35:12We can't condemn them for just not being soldiers.
0:35:12 > 0:35:13Can we not?
0:35:15 > 0:35:18I'm sure it'll bring him some comfort.
0:35:24 > 0:35:26Eat.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40You ever killed someone, Corporal?
0:35:41 > 0:35:43You just got to look at the cards.
0:35:43 > 0:35:44Training...
0:35:46 > 0:35:48you're just stabbing sackfuls of straw.
0:35:51 > 0:35:52You do it for real....
0:35:55 > 0:35:58..no-one tells you what it's going to sound like.
0:36:06 > 0:36:08His face was right there.
0:36:11 > 0:36:12I could feel his breath.
0:36:13 > 0:36:16I just wanted it to stop!
0:36:40 > 0:36:42I did it for you, Peache.
0:36:42 > 0:36:44I had to hit you, son.
0:36:44 > 0:36:45That was dangerous talk.
0:36:48 > 0:36:50Do you hear me?
0:36:50 > 0:36:53You don't just get taken away for cowardice and desertion.
0:36:56 > 0:36:58You get taken away for flapping your mouth.
0:37:02 > 0:37:04Makes you become a ghost.
0:37:08 > 0:37:10I did it for you, Peache.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16Peache?
0:37:18 > 0:37:20I did it for you, son.
0:38:26 > 0:38:27Hello?
0:38:30 > 0:38:32Is there anybody in here?
0:38:56 > 0:38:58WATER SPLASHES
0:39:11 > 0:39:13CREAKING
0:39:18 > 0:39:19Who's that?
0:39:54 > 0:39:56Are you published yet?
0:39:56 > 0:39:57No, Sir.
0:39:57 > 0:40:01Well, never mind.
0:40:01 > 0:40:04- Keep rattling away at it. - HE CLEARS HIS THROAT
0:40:04 > 0:40:07You going to be writing about that...
0:40:07 > 0:40:08contraption?
0:40:10 > 0:40:13It's called a Carrel-Dakin system, Sir.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16Sounds like something from Beatrix Potter.
0:40:16 > 0:40:17Carrel-Dakin.
0:40:17 > 0:40:20The little mouse who wanted to be a big mouse.
0:40:23 > 0:40:24Call it what you like, it doesn't work.
0:40:24 > 0:40:28Well, there's been some interference with it, Sir.
0:40:28 > 0:40:31Oh, I'm sure you'll sort it out.
0:40:31 > 0:40:35Obvious you're a clever chap. You must be to have gotten this far.
0:40:36 > 0:40:38Scholarships and what-have-you.
0:40:38 > 0:40:41Every exam a rung up the ladder.
0:40:41 > 0:40:44Shinning your way up the greasy pole.
0:40:44 > 0:40:46For Christ's sake, Sir.
0:40:46 > 0:40:49You deserve some credit, really, to have done so well.
0:40:49 > 0:40:50Must be quite uncomfortable
0:40:50 > 0:40:53being addressed as "Sir" by your tribe.
0:40:55 > 0:40:57Tell me.
0:40:57 > 0:41:00What do they call you when you go back home to the tenement?
0:41:02 > 0:41:06What do Mum and Dad say to their blue-eyed boy
0:41:06 > 0:41:07now they're his inferiors?
0:41:15 > 0:41:17HE CHUCKLES
0:41:17 > 0:41:20HE LAUGHS
0:41:20 > 0:41:22Yes, it is quite funny.
0:41:22 > 0:41:23Isn't it?
0:41:25 > 0:41:27You sitting there like you're God Almighty
0:41:27 > 0:41:32when everyone here knows that, as a man, you are a waste of skin.
0:41:32 > 0:41:34And, as a surgeon...
0:41:35 > 0:41:37you couldn't find your cock with both hands...
0:41:40 > 0:41:42..Sir.
0:41:51 > 0:41:52Oh, God, I hate violence.
0:41:54 > 0:41:57On your feet.
0:42:00 > 0:42:02Anywhere you like.
0:42:03 > 0:42:05You first.
0:42:18 > 0:42:20LOW CHATTER
0:42:37 > 0:42:38It's time to go.
0:43:13 > 0:43:15No.
0:43:15 > 0:43:17- No! No.- Come on.- No.
0:43:17 > 0:43:19- No. No!- Nicholls.
0:43:19 > 0:43:20- No!- Nicholls, look.
0:43:20 > 0:43:22- HE SOBS - Look.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28I made it for you.
0:43:29 > 0:43:32So that you know that I am thinking of you
0:43:32 > 0:43:34and I'm praying for you.
0:43:54 > 0:43:56Gently, please.
0:44:12 > 0:44:15ENGINE STARTS
0:44:28 > 0:44:30Thank you, Corporal Foley.
0:44:30 > 0:44:31You may take a late morning.
0:44:33 > 0:44:35Matron.
0:45:04 > 0:45:05Right.
0:45:05 > 0:45:07Are you ready?
0:45:08 > 0:45:10I'm going to Mass first, Sergeant.
0:45:12 > 0:45:15You still need the salt water.
0:45:16 > 0:45:18Make sure you come down after.
0:45:21 > 0:45:23Yes, Sergeant.
0:45:57 > 0:46:02So, are you a country boy, then, Peter? Setting snares?
0:46:02 > 0:46:04You don't sound like a country boy.
0:46:04 > 0:46:06What's it to you what I sound like?
0:46:06 > 0:46:08I'm curious. Where are you from?
0:46:08 > 0:46:10Mind your business.
0:46:10 > 0:46:12You're SO cagey.
0:46:12 > 0:46:14I tell YOU everything.
0:46:14 > 0:46:18Don't you just? Even when I don't want to hear it.
0:46:21 > 0:46:24There's been a serious complaint about you.
0:46:24 > 0:46:26This is why I don't like mess dinners.
0:46:26 > 0:46:29Educated men become bloody feral.
0:46:29 > 0:46:33It's not death that's the great leveller. It's drink.
0:46:33 > 0:46:37- I wasn't drunk, Sir. - Consider this a severe reprimand.
0:46:38 > 0:46:41I'm told there's been a prolonged campaign
0:46:41 > 0:46:43of particular provocation.
0:46:43 > 0:46:45Who told you that?
0:46:45 > 0:46:48Your friend, the blasted boy, was up here at dawn,
0:46:48 > 0:46:49which must be the first time
0:46:49 > 0:46:52he's dragged himself from his pit at a decent hour.
0:46:52 > 0:46:54That's not an excuse, Sir.
0:46:54 > 0:46:55No.
0:46:55 > 0:46:57But it is a reason.
0:46:59 > 0:47:03Major Yelland is not going to be around for much longer.
0:47:03 > 0:47:05He's going up to a casualty clearing station.
0:47:05 > 0:47:08And, yes, I know that this is something you want,
0:47:08 > 0:47:11but you'll just have to wait your turn.
0:47:11 > 0:47:13I trust it's obvious
0:47:13 > 0:47:15that I'm completely brassed off with every single one of you.
0:47:15 > 0:47:18- Yes, Sir.- Good. Go away.
0:47:24 > 0:47:27Am I doing the right thing with the Carrel-Dakin, Sir?
0:47:27 > 0:47:28It's just...
0:47:29 > 0:47:32the man's in agony. I do feel like a torturer.
0:47:32 > 0:47:34Gillan...
0:47:36 > 0:47:38..that is an expensive piece of kit.
0:47:38 > 0:47:41Do you imagine that I let you make free with it,
0:47:41 > 0:47:43causing considerable pain to the patient,
0:47:43 > 0:47:46because I'm assailed by wild and uncontrollable doubt?
0:47:46 > 0:47:47No, Sir.
0:47:47 > 0:47:49Very good.
0:47:49 > 0:47:51So, kindly...
0:47:51 > 0:47:52bugger off and do your job.
0:47:53 > 0:47:55Thank you, Sir.
0:48:05 > 0:48:06Body of Christ.
0:48:22 > 0:48:24'Body of Christ.'
0:48:43 > 0:48:46The poor bunnies.
0:48:47 > 0:48:48You'll be begging me for these pelts
0:48:48 > 0:48:51to put in your boots and your gloves come winter.
0:48:51 > 0:48:52It's colder than a witch's tit.
0:48:54 > 0:48:58- Sorry.- Oh, I hear swearing all the time.
0:48:58 > 0:49:02- I'm not a child, you know.- Hm. - I'm actually a woman of the world.
0:49:02 > 0:49:05Even if I've never been kissed by a boy.
0:49:05 > 0:49:08And here's something else I don't want to know about.
0:49:08 > 0:49:09Gordon Naysmith tried once,
0:49:09 > 0:49:12but he was horrible, so I kicked him in the shins.
0:49:12 > 0:49:16But apart from that, no-one else.
0:49:16 > 0:49:17Not even when I really want them to.
0:49:17 > 0:49:21Oh, it's probably because you don't ever shut up talking.
0:49:21 > 0:49:23Perhaps I'm not very kissable.
0:49:23 > 0:49:24Why are you telling me this?
0:49:24 > 0:49:26Do you expect me to do something about it?
0:49:26 > 0:49:30Of course I don't expect YOU to kiss me, Peter.
0:49:30 > 0:49:31You're homosexual.
0:49:35 > 0:49:37- Who told you that?- No-one.
0:49:37 > 0:49:40I saw you going onto the dunes.
0:49:40 > 0:49:42I know what goes on up there.
0:49:42 > 0:49:45No. You don't know what you're talking about.
0:49:45 > 0:49:46I do, actually.
0:49:46 > 0:49:49- My brother Barty, he's homosexual. - I'm as normal as the next man.
0:49:49 > 0:49:52If anyone says different, they'll get their throats ripped out.
0:49:52 > 0:49:54- I wouldn't ever betray... - There's nothing to betray!
0:49:54 > 0:49:56You have to be careful.
0:49:56 > 0:49:59Because if I've noticed then someone else will.
0:49:59 > 0:50:01You have to be so careful.
0:50:10 > 0:50:11SHE SIGHS
0:50:20 > 0:50:22My pass, Sergeant.
0:50:24 > 0:50:27A bit of a jaunt will put the roses back in your cheeks.
0:50:29 > 0:50:31You go careful, Sister.
0:50:31 > 0:50:32Thank you, Sergeant.
0:50:40 > 0:50:43Poor Sister Livesey.
0:50:43 > 0:50:45A bit of an upset on her ward yesterday.
0:50:45 > 0:50:46She's engaged.
0:50:48 > 0:50:51- Really?- She said she didn't have anyone, but...
0:50:51 > 0:50:54she wears the ring round her neck. I saw it.
0:50:57 > 0:50:59She makes no mention of that in her records.
0:51:01 > 0:51:03Perhaps she thinks it's none of our business.
0:51:03 > 0:51:06ENGINE SPLUTTERS TO LIFE
0:51:56 > 0:51:59Right, you motley horrible gaggle! Taking you back to training camp.
0:51:59 > 0:52:01Fall in!
0:52:11 > 0:52:13What do you think you're doing?
0:52:13 > 0:52:16Sergeant McCafferty, I will do my duty.
0:52:16 > 0:52:18I will shoot, I'll fight.
0:52:18 > 0:52:22I will kill any German that you point me at.
0:52:22 > 0:52:24But I won't do it in a British khaki.
0:52:26 > 0:52:28I'll do it all in my own Irish skin.
0:52:48 > 0:52:52That khaki is the finest set of clothes you'll ever have.
0:52:53 > 0:52:54Put it on, son.
0:52:54 > 0:52:56I'm not your son.
0:52:57 > 0:52:59What were you like when I got you?
0:52:59 > 0:53:02Eight stone, soaking wet,
0:53:02 > 0:53:04your belly stuck to your spine.
0:53:05 > 0:53:07Ireland spat you out!
0:53:08 > 0:53:11The British Army picked you up!
0:53:12 > 0:53:15It clothed you, it fed you.
0:53:15 > 0:53:17It made a man of you!
0:53:19 > 0:53:21It gave you back your pride, your dignity.
0:53:21 > 0:53:23It gave you me!
0:53:25 > 0:53:27Sergeant McCafferty...
0:53:29 > 0:53:30..are you...
0:53:30 > 0:53:32crying?
0:53:33 > 0:53:35You're crying.
0:53:37 > 0:53:39Well, I wouldn't want to do that to you.
0:53:39 > 0:53:41Put it on!
0:53:41 > 0:53:43Look.
0:53:49 > 0:53:51I'm putting it on.
0:53:53 > 0:53:55Just like you wanted.
0:54:02 > 0:54:04They'll all be very impressed.
0:54:06 > 0:54:08They'll think that you're a real hard bastard.
0:54:11 > 0:54:13But me and you'll know different, won't we?
0:54:14 > 0:54:16I'll go out there...
0:54:16 > 0:54:19and I'll look hangdog and chastised
0:54:19 > 0:54:20and you can just...
0:54:22 > 0:54:23blow your nose.
0:54:24 > 0:54:26The Army's your family, Sergeant.
0:54:26 > 0:54:28Not mine.
0:54:28 > 0:54:30But if you'd just helped me.
0:54:33 > 0:54:34All you had to do was ask.
0:54:36 > 0:54:38Just try and get me home.
0:54:41 > 0:54:44Even if you hadn't managed it, if you'd have just tried for me...
0:54:47 > 0:54:50..I would have loved you like a father for ever.
0:54:52 > 0:54:54But you didn't.
0:54:54 > 0:54:56So...
0:54:56 > 0:54:58you're nothing to me.
0:54:59 > 0:55:02You're just a ghost now.
0:55:33 > 0:55:35Where's the nurse?
0:55:35 > 0:55:38She said she'd be back in a few minutes.
0:55:44 > 0:55:47Shouldn't you be doing...something.
0:55:48 > 0:55:51- I am.- Doesn't look like it.
0:56:02 > 0:56:04Mostyn.
0:56:07 > 0:56:10Yes, this is an experiment.
0:56:10 > 0:56:14Yes, I know it's excruciating, and if you really can't bear it...
0:56:14 > 0:56:16I will amputate.
0:56:16 > 0:56:18If you really can't bear it.
0:56:20 > 0:56:22But you're a young man.
0:56:22 > 0:56:26And I want to see you walk through the rest of your life on two legs.
0:56:28 > 0:56:29So, what's it to be?
0:56:31 > 0:56:33Two legs.
0:56:34 > 0:56:35Good.
0:56:44 > 0:56:47Thieving bloody devils!
0:56:47 > 0:56:49No, no. I've spoken to their mothers.
0:56:49 > 0:56:52Those boys have been told.
0:56:52 > 0:56:55No more climbing on your trees.
0:56:55 > 0:56:58No more breaking branches. No more scrumping.
0:57:00 > 0:57:02They, erm...
0:57:03 > 0:57:06They... They can take all the windfalls they want.
0:57:06 > 0:57:08I... I...
0:57:08 > 0:57:11I don't mind them taking the windfalls.
0:57:11 > 0:57:13Well, I'll tell them.
0:57:14 > 0:57:16I'll tell them.
0:57:29 > 0:57:31I can't wrestle with him.
0:57:31 > 0:57:35I have to stop him from scratching his head.
0:57:36 > 0:57:39There really isn't any head left to scratch, is there?
0:57:40 > 0:57:42I don't know. He's not one of mine.
0:57:42 > 0:57:44Seems to be working.
0:57:45 > 0:57:47That's what I'm doing.
0:57:48 > 0:57:51Not that it's any concern to you.
0:57:56 > 0:57:59When I saw your clothes on the beach...
0:57:59 > 0:58:01I thought someone was drowning.
0:58:02 > 0:58:04Well, I'm sorry if I alarmed you.
0:58:04 > 0:58:06I've been alarmed since the moment you arrived.
0:58:18 > 0:58:21You run, you're going to get bloody shot!
0:58:21 > 0:58:22They'll shoot me anyway!
0:58:22 > 0:58:24I've got to use what I've got, and this is what I've got.
0:58:24 > 0:58:27Are you blackmailing me?
0:58:27 > 0:58:29Someone has connections on high.
0:58:30 > 0:58:33You took what was mine and you let me be shamed!
0:58:33 > 0:58:35If she told me the truth, I could have done something.
0:58:35 > 0:58:38But she didn't. She lied. She lied!