Magnificent Doll

'When a woman has lived in exciting times and seen great events,

'it would seem those occasions are what she remembers most vividly.

'I don't find that true at all.

'I remember each detail of our first inaugural ball -

'how I had worked to make it a brilliant affair,

'with guests from around the world.

'Dignitaries, diplomats, statesmen.

'I remember, too, how nervous I was.

'Yet there were other times, neither happy nor gay,

'when the future of our country was at stake.

'We were at war. Washington was under siege.

'We could see cannonfire.

'We knew the capital would soon be in the hands of the enemy.

'We were the last ones in the White House,

'gathering state documents, like the Declaration of Independence.

'It would have been bitter to have lost our declaration

'as well as our independence.

'I was about to leave when I saw the portrait of George Washington.

'We sorely needed his leadership at this time

'when we were in danger of losing everything he'd fought for.

'I couldn't let him fall into the enemy's hands,

'so I cut him out of his frame.

'I had faith that in a matter of days, I'd climb up the same ladder,

'putting the General back.

'I knew that once you've tasted freedom, you cannot live without it.

'They were exciting times, but the memories I cherish

'are the memories deep in my heart.

'They begin in Virginia, on the night Father returned from the war.

'He liked life on the plantation, the parties, the gaiety, the hunt.

'He liked our life.

'When he left, he ordered us to give the biggest party ever.

'He wanted every room lit so he could see it from miles away.

'The night he came home, we invited everyone to welcome him.

'These were the occasions Father loved - gay times, good times.

'The life of a planter in Virginia.

'We couldn't wait to see how happy he'd be

'to find himself in the midst of all of his old friends.'

What's the matter?

Nothing, Wife.

I want to thank you all for coming.

Now I have things to say to my family.

-If you would excuse us, please.

-Why, John!

John, are you ill?

No, my dear. I'm not ill.

Father, remember, you wanted us to give you a party when you returned

and you weren't nice to our friends.

Our true friends are not here.

It was going to be a lovely party. What will they think of us?

Must thou be so concerned with what others think of thee?

-Do you find my speech strange to your ears, Daughter?

-Yes, Father.

What happened to you?

Many things, Wife. Hast thou heard of the battle of Kings Mountain?

-Yes, we heard news of it.

-I was wounded in that battle.

My dear, why didn't you let us know?

I lay there waiting for the end.

-For death.

-Oh, John!

At dawn, I saw a figure coming through the fog.

He came to me. A man I had not seen for 25 years - an old friend.

One I had gone to meetings with as a boy, in the Quaker faith.

-Have I not told you of my friend, John Todd?

-Yes, John, you have.

He picked me up in his arms.

He said, "Friend Payne?

"That we have met this way is an act of providence."

As he bent to bind my wounds,

the enemy opened fire again and he was struck down.

Had he not been shielding me with his body, I'd have taken the bullet.

He died for me, Dolly.

But he lived long enough to make a pact with me.

I pledged I would return to the Quaker church.

I said I would free my slaves and sell our land here

and go to Philadelphia.

I pledged to him before he died that our families would be joined

and our daughter would marry his son.

John.

You... You promised him, Father, that I would be married to his son?

This was my promise to him.

But, Father, I can't marry a man I've never even seen!

I can't marry a man I don't know, don't love!

No, Father, you don't mean that! You...

'All my protests and tears did not change my father's mind.

'We moved to Philadelphia and lived in a house on this square.

'I was forced to stand up in a meeting house and marry John Todd.'

I take thee, Dorothea Payne, to be my wife,

promising, with divine assistance, to be a loving and faithful husband

until death shall separate us.

I take thee, John Todd, to be my husband,

promising to be unto thee a loving and faithful wife

until death shall separate us.

The bridegroom and the bride will now sign the marriage certificate.

Friend Todd first.

Each friend of the society will now sign the certificate.

Mrs Todd!

Won't you say it now?

-Say what?

-That you love me.

I'll never say it, sir.

-Dolly?

-Yes, Mr Todd?

-I've planned our house. We'll build it in spring.

Tell me how you like it.

-It's very nice.

-I want you to look at the grounds.

-It's beautiful. Lots of elm trees.

-You've seen it - that's enough.

It isn't - I want YOU to like it.

This part will be built of stone.

There's a huge tree along here which will shade the kitchen.

You'll feel differently in your own house.

Your father and mother are very nice to us - kind and understanding,

but it isn't the same as your own house.

-I know you'll feel differently.

-Do you?

-You'll feel like we're married.

I'll never feel married to you, Mr Todd.

I hope you won't feel married to me.

Dolly, we're going to be married for a long time - all our lives.

-Not just these five weeks, but for years.

-I know that.

Someday, you'll realise how much I love you and you'll love me too.

I'll never love you.

Pretend you do. Say it. See how it feels.

I'll never say it. I'll never say, "I love you."

I know you will. You have to.

Dolly.

I didn't mean to hurt you. I'm clumsy and awkward.

I know everything I do and say is wrong.

I might go out of my mind, you hate me so much.

I never promised you anything but hate.

I know. We shouldn't have been married.

I don't blame the way you feel, but I don't know what to do about it.

If I left you, I think I'd die thinking about you.

Dolly... Let me put my arms around you.

I just have to.

You don't know how much I love you. You can't know how I feel.

You've never been in love.

You don't know what it is to see all the goodness of one person

and know she's unobtainable.

To know the world thinks she belongs to me and she doesn't.

It's pain, Dolly.

It's real pain. It digs deep into you.

I look at you and I think there's not even pity

because you don't understand.

And I think...

..someday, I'll take you in my arms and all the pain will go from me.

Then I'm ashamed.

So ashamed.

Dolly, I've never even kissed you.

-Excuse me.

-Congratulations!

-Thank you.

-Grandfather, how are you?

-Fine!

-There aren't words for how I feel.

Dolly, are you happy now?

Look - he's smiling.

Dolly, this is our anniversary.

But, John, jewellery is against your beliefs!

-I want you to be happy.

-You'd go against your beliefs for me?

Dolly, I have another belief.

A belief in you and our marriage and our son. That's a strong belief too.

That's why I want to give you this.

It's been a good year, Dolly.

It's been an eventful one.

I'm embarrassed - I didn't remember our anniversary.

I have no present for you.

Yes, you have. A present I wanted every day for the past year.

You're the only one who can give it to me.

A year ago, you told me you'd never say, "I love you, John."

-I remember.

-I was hoping it might slip out one day, you'd forget.

Please, John, don't. You've made me like you, in spite of myself,

and I'm content - isn't that enough?

I can't help it if I keep asking myself how happy I'd be

if I'd married a man I wanted to.

If I hadn't been mated like a beast in the field,

ordered to be your wife.

-But, Dolly, you're the mother of our son.

-Yes, I know.

I thought you'd learn to love me.

Love isn't something a woman learns like reading and writing.

It's something she knows by heart.

I know you love me. Every instinct tells me. Why don't you say it?

Because it's all I have left.

I'm not complaining about my life with you, John.

It's good, you're good, and I love our son.

But I miss my life - you and Father took it away!

There's the excitement of falling in love that I'll never know!

It's a whirlwind that picks you up and transports you out of yourself

to something more divine than mortal.

-How do you know?

-Every woman knows. I don't think of it often,

but if I see a boy and girl walking together,

or hear that someone's getting married because she's in love,

I remember my promise to myself on our wedding day.

I know you think it's foolish,

but it makes up for what you and Father took away from me.

I'll do anything you say, John, anything,

but I'll never say, "I love you," and don't ask me to again.

You're wrong, Doll. Someday, you'll run to tell me you love me.

'Then a plague -

'a horrible plague, yellow fever - swept over Philadelphia.

'Father was stricken. He died in Mother's arms.

'And then my little boy - our son - was taken, too.

'Everyone was ordered to leave the city.'

Doll, they expect me back. They need every man to help evacuate the city.

Why don't you go tomorrow, then?

-Stay here today and rest.

-They need me now.

I'll take the ladies. You can ride back with Luke.

Thank you.

-Well, goodbye, Doll.

-Come back as soon as you can, John.

I will.

Drive me to town, Luke.

Mrs Payne, Mr Todd has been stricken with fever!

-No! Where is he?

-At the bridge!

Have you seen my husband John?

John!

John! John, I'm here.

You said one day, I'd run to tell you I love you. I love you, John.

I love you with all my heart.

John.

John!

Oh, no!

Now when I tell you, it's too late!

Oh, forgive me, my beloved, forgive me!

'The next two years were bitter and lonely ones.

'But time somehow spreads a healing tissue over the deepest wound.

'Philadelphia was the capital then and when Congress were in session,

'the city was crowded with officials.

'The public taverns were noisy, the food wretched,

'so Mother and I decided we could be useful, as well as practical.'

-Good afternoon.

-May I see the widow Payne?

-Yes, sir. Come in.

-Thank you.

I'll tell her you're here, sir.

I hope it's a wise venture. Strange people living in our house...

-A gentleman to see the widow Payne.

-Is he a lodger?

-I believe so, Miss.

-What's he like?

-Don't forget about the price of the room and the rules.

-Rules?

-Use of spirits and tobacco and promptness at meals.

-Now, be firm about it!

-I can't. I wouldn't be able to say a word.

You go.

Me?

-Amy, you go. You know more about these things.

-It wouldn't be right.

All right, Mother. I'll go.

-This is a respectable home for respectable persons.

-All right.

-Widow Payne?

-No. I'm the Widow Todd.

Widow Todd.

-I've come for lodgings.

-You have?

Well, we have a...

BOTH: Respectable home!

Yes. And there's a rule about...

Not smoking in one's bed?

Yes. And we don't permit guests to arrive in the state to which...

Strong water brings weak men?

Nor do we allow guests to gather...

And pass the bottle.

-Won't you sit down?

-Thank you.

I shall need a rather large room.

-Are you blushing?

-Is there any reason why I should?

Women's blushes are a mystery.

We didn't expect anyone yet. The sign just went up.

I took it down and threw it in the fire.

You don't need it now. Do you have a good cook?

-Yes.

-And a place for my horses?

-Yes, there's a stable...

-Do you like horses?

-Yes, very much.

-You ARE blushing, Widow Todd.

-Do you have references?

-Personal, political or financial?

-Personal and financial.

-You're blushing again.

Mother!

This is my mother. Widow Payne.

-I'm Senator Aaron Burr, madam.

-Senator Burr of New York?

-You don't mind having a senator in your house?

-No!

-That's one vote.

If I promise not to try out my speeches on you, will you say yes?

Well, I have to. You took down our sign.

I'll find other lodgers for you.

-How many do you plan to take?

-Four.

Three, besides myself.

Maybe the French charge d'affaires a cabinet member and a judge?

-Very distinguished!

-I'll do my best. May I see my quarters now?

Certainly, sir. This way.

Oh, Amy!

Would you show Senator Burr to the master bedroom, please?

Senator Burr? Well, bless your soul! Come this way, Senator!

Cabinet members, foreign ministers, judges - and Senator Burr!

It IS a good beginning, isn't it?

I hope so, Mother.

-Oh, what a fine horse!

-He's yours, then.

Thank you, but I couldn't accept such a wonderful gift.

-If you won't, I'll have to shoot him.

-You won't do that!

I will, if you won't accept him.

I believe you might. C'mon, boy! Run for your life!

I like living in your house.

-Mother will be very pleased when I tell her that.

-Mother?

-Aren't YOU pleased?

-It's good to know a lodger likes his lodgings.

-I'm talking about you.

-How's the sketch?

-You widows know how to fend people off.

-Very good!

The eyes aren't the right blue. They ARE blue, aren't they?

And the lips haven't that full...

I just wanted to seal our bargain.

-About the horse. You said you'd take him.

-Indeed, I did.

I should take him home right now.

Widow Todd?

Shall I bring the sketch?

-It's not a big rock - I can push it along for losing my bet.

-What bet?

When I first saw you, I bet myself I'd kiss you within a week.

This is my last day.

How odd. When I first saw you,

I bet our lodger would be too much of a gentleman to try such tricks.

Then we both lose our bets. Unlucky to start a friendship like that.

It is, really!

Thank you!

You're a beautiful creature. Thank you for a very nice ride.

You, at least, have made a conquest.

-Jack, be sure to cool him off well.

-Yes, sir.

Well, James? Did the horse kick you?

-No, why?

-You look in pain.

-No.

-It might be deep passion or toothache.

Always hard to tell what's going on in Madison's mind!

-I was wondering if I know that lady.

-I don't think so, James.

-I wish I did.

-She's the mistress of a lodging house round the corner.

First chance I get, I'll present you.

-Good day, James.

-Good day.

I've found a friend!

-It's a pleasure to have you here.

-It seems like a heavenly dream.

Oh, they've come back.

-You got my message!

-And came post-haste.

-Is it all I said?

-And more!

-Meet my friends who've come to live here.

Count D'Arignon, French charge.

-And Senator Ainsworth.

-A pleasure.

-I'd like to see Senator Burr, please.

-Won't you come in?

-Thank you.

A change from the tavern!

For the first time since I left France, I feel as if I have a home.

A gentleman to see you, Senator.

Show him in. Your new lodger!

-Judge Sears.

-You're wrong, Aaron, it's only your humble servant.

James, you ARE a man of action.

I was passing, and thought it may be a good chance to present me to...

Mrs Payne, this is James Madison. He's asked to be presented.

-It's an honour.

-He's a bachelor. Mrs Todd, Mr Madison.

-How do you do?

-The James Madison of Virginia?

-Yes.

My husband used to read me your articles.

-I thought they were magnificent.

-You did?

-Yes.

Well, I thought they were pretty good myself!

-James means "perfect".

-It is nice to see someone from Virginia, sir.

-We used to live in Virginia.

-You can feel it when you walk in here.

Mrs Todd, have you room for one more lodger here?

Have we, Mother?

I promised Senator Burr I'd hold the room for Judge Sears.

Don't you think, as Mr Madison is here and Judge Sears isn't,

that we might forget about the judge?

A judge of the Supreme Court is useful to have around.

-A fellow Virginian is a fellow Virginian!

-Thank you.

I'll fetch my luggage.

You'd never suspect that that quiet, gentle man

is the great James Madison, would you?

No, but your cousin Patrick doesn't think he's so gentle!

Well, you Virginians really do stick together.

When I saw his face, I didn't have the heart to turn him away.

If he'd heard you say that, he'd have run a mile.

-He's very shy around the ladies.

-KNOCKING

It's Judge Sears! And you must tell him you've given away his room!

I just happened to have my luggage outside.

So we see!

-Can I get you something, Mr Madison?

-Thank you.

-Doll will be down in just a moment.

-Thank you.

-She won't be late.

-Plenty of time.

Move the queen, put him in check!

You're right. I never like to see my queen in danger.

FOOTSTEPS APPROACHING

-You look lovely.

-Thank you.

-Good night.

-Have a good time.

-We will.

-Thank you.

-Sorry I'll miss the end of your game, gentlemen.

-Good night.

-Good night.

-Good night.

- C'est ta jouet! - What?

- Your move, monsieur. - Yes. I guess it is at that.

-What is the play about?

-The usual nonsense.

It's the first time I've been to the theatre since we moved here.

All the world's a stage!

This is not the theatre, Mr Burr.

This is a tavern, you'll find it much more amusing.

-Good evening.

-Good evening.

This way, sir.

Aaron Burr! The man we want as President of the United States!

-That's right!

-The politicians may have something to say about that.

When the time comes, we won't worry about politicians.

-Wine has made you eloquent.

-Where you lead, we follow!

-I'll remember that.

-Take care of them, Bessie.

-Yes, sir.

-How do you do, Senator?

-Hello, Jake. French wine tonight?

-Yes, Colonel.

-Why did you bring me here?

-These people are more amusing than actors.

They're different, certainly.

-Would you like to leave and go to the theatre?

-No.

Don't tell me you're starting to find the dark side attractive?

There's a note of excitement about you.

It's echoed by these people here.

There's every kind of evil here.

-Hunger for wealth, adventure, power, danger.

-What is your evil hunger?

-You think I have one?

-You're no ordinary man.

-I'll drink to that!

And to the hidden streams of life.

And to you, Widow Todd.

WOMAN SCREAMS

-No! No!

-Put the tables back!

Randy, lock the doors!

Sit still.

Pick it up with your left hand.

Pick it up, or I'll run you through! >

Oh, no! You leave her alone!

It's getting rough. That door leads to the courtyard. Keep going.

KNOCKING Open up and be searched!

-Why are we stopping?

-We ought to give our steed a breather.

-I need one, too.

-Have you had enough excitement for one evening?

-Enough for many.

-Look upon it all as a visit to the theatre.

You have an odd way of making danger attractive.

Have I?

Good night.

-Good morning!

-Good morning, Mr Madison.

-This must be an important day in Congress.

-Why do you say that?

-You look like you're about to pass a law.

-What do you think of...?

-Here, let me.

-Thank you.

-What do you think of the law-makers you've met?

They're not as wise as friends say, or as stupid as enemies report.

-I feel they're just like everyone else.

-No better, no worse.

Dolly - I mean, Miss Todd -

-I've been thinking of a plan that concerns you.

-Me?

-Yes.

My bill prohibits any American from engaging in

-the operation of slave ships.

-Wonderful. Will they pass it?

Not unless I convince the opposition

that liberty and slavery can never coexist.

You sound like my father, the day he set his slaves free.

He said, "I'm not doing this for you,

"nor for myself, nor to serve my own conscience.

"I'm doing this because

"our nation will be stronger when all men are free."

Would you say that again tomorrow night?

-Tomorrow night?

-I haven't told you about my plan.

You said that law-makers are just like everybody else...

-The flowers look lovely.

-Don't they?

Let me see. The Vermont and Massachusetts men will be here.

South Carolina, Virginia.

Maryland, Pennsylvania.

New York, New Jersey and Delaware. They'll mix very nicely.

Oh, Amy, be sure to get things on the table as fast as possible.

-How many girls did you get?

-Three, for the table and myself.

-Fine.

When the men are seated, take the flowers off. Men don't like them.

-They enhance the picture!

-And slow down conversation! I want talking.

-Be sure the men have thick cuts of roast.

-Yes, ma'am!

I'll get some rest - you do the same.

Amy, please say a prayer that Mr Madison's party

does all the things he wants it to do.

I can't say a prayer over just a supper party!

You can over this one, Amy. Indeed, you can!

BUZZ OF CONVERSATION

-More cigars, Amy.

-We'll have to talk Madison into this again!

I didn't think he had it in him!

He's from Virginia. There's nothing better than supper with friends.

I can't understand why a charming gentleman like you isn't married.

-Neither can I!

-Women have a lot of wisdom.

-No woman would have me!

-You come to my house - I'll show you six!

-All young and pretty!

-Six seems like a good many to start off with -

-I think I'll start with just one, like most gentlemen.

-Oh!

-Isn't he droll?

-I know who I'd choose, if I were you.

-You do?

I know nothing about politics. But I'll never forget Father saying it.

"I don't do this for my conscience,

"but our newborn nation will be stronger when all men are free."

It made the United States seem like a baby with a blue bonnet on!

LAUGHTER

Ladies, let's leave the men to their port and cigars.

Oh! Thanks.

Gentlemen...

-Nice to see you again.

-And you...

When the bill comes up, I'll remember this supper.

-You know how my vote will go.

-Good night.

-Good night.

-Lovely evening.

See you later, James. I see things more clearly now.

We need clear thinking on this bill.

It was a lovely party!

I had a wonderful time.

Thank you. I couldn't say what I want if I stood here all night.

I worked on those men for months,

I buttonholed them in corridors, in taverns, and all I got was no.

-And tonight?

-Tonight, at this party, the things you said

may be just what we need to pass the bill tomorrow.

- That would be nice. - The first step against slavery.

-Does it have a chance?

-It may.

If it becomes the law, it'll be your law.

-My law?

-Yours and nobody else's.

Oh! I never felt so important in all my life!

I'll be back in a moment.

DOLLY SINGS TO HERSELF

-You startled me!

-I'll do it again.

-Did your supper make history?

-It went off very well.

So Mr Madison has another dull law ready to be passed?

-It's a good bill.

-It's impractical and will be impossible to enforce.

It may mean the end of slavery here.

I know every phrase of it. It won't work.

Let's go to the ball.

-Not another party tonight, I...

-You can see real politics.

-All right.

-It'll help get rid of the dull taste of Congressmen!

A SLOW WALTZ

-May I present Senator and Mrs Mason...

-How do you do?

-..Mr and Mrs Trubshaw and Mr Drake.

-An honour.

-Good evening, Senator.

Senator? You mean the next President!

You are the first to say what everybody knows!

These wishes are appreciated but premature.

When one can dance with Mrs Todd, only a fool would talk politics.

I can't believe that I know the next President of the United States!

-A very different President he'll be, too.

-I'm sure of that.

I'm serious, Dolly. When I was in Europe,

I wondered what would happen

if a strong power, with great armies and navies, attacked America.

We'd raise greater armies, like in the Revolutionary War.

We were lucky then.

There's too much talk about democracy

and too little purpose and rule.

We need a President to pull the States together and make a nation.

If I were a man, I'd love politics.

Instead of politicians?

There's something very special about Sunday. Sunshine.

The way people look as they stroll along.

Families. Young men, young ladies. It's the best day of the week.

-You didn't like Philadelphia at first.

-No. I missed life in Virginia.

But there's so much of me here now.

I wish I had those first few years here to live over again.

I wasn't wise about my marriage, Mr Madison.

I didn't know how much it meant to me until it was all over.

I heard John Todd was a fine man.

He was. He made me very happy.

But I was extremely wilful.

I have many regrets, Mr Madison.

-You can't live with regrets.

-I know.

There's happiness still left in the world.

Everyone has said, "If I had my life to live again,

"how differently I'd live it!"

-Yes, I've said it often.

-Should I marry again,

I'd try to make up for what I failed to do for John.

Are you thinking about marrying again?

Every widow thinks about marrying again.

I had hoped that you would be.

-Had you?

-Yes.

This time, I must be deeply in love before my marriage.

I know now the part a wife should play.

You should marry a man because he wants you more than anything else.

He wants you to be part of his plans, his ambition, his work.

No matter how difficult a task he has, you make it possible for him.

I hope he'll need me.

That's one thing I must be certain of - he needs me.

He needs you, Dolly.

Sometimes, I'm positive that he needs no-one but himself.

Other times, he seems so alone,

as though he needed someone very badly.

Forgive me for speaking so frankly, but you are his friend.

At times, I feel I know you better than Mr Burr.

You understand me. I guess it's because we're from Virginia.

Yes. I suppose that's the reason.

-Well, shall we walk a bit?

-Yes, James.

Tell Mrs Todd the horses are here.

She's having tea with Mr Madison and another gentleman.

Senator, come and have some tea.

-You know Mr Jefferson.

-Thomas.

-Aaron.

-Have you heard the news?

-News?

-Mr Jefferson is to run against Mr Adams for the presidency.

Congratulations, Thomas.

And to you, James. You must have had a hand in this.

-Two hands! No man did more to help me.

-I don't deserve the compliment.

Let's drink to Mr Jefferson.

Yes. A toast and tea.

Symbolic of that party in Boston that makes it possible for any man

to be the leader of his people.

-To you, Mr Jefferson.

-Thank you.

-I'm glad Jefferson was nominated, not me.

-Are you?

Adams will win, Jefferson will be out of the way. So will Madison.

-Don't you like him?

-No, I'm jealous.

-Why?

-Those adoring glances. Haven't you noticed?

-He's fond of me...

-He's madly in love with you. So am I.

-Why do you keep him dangling?

-I don't!

-I like his ideals.

-They're the same as Jefferson's.

-You don't think he can run the United States?

-Of course I do!

History proves they can't. When people rule, they're ruined.

We won't become a nation until

the power to rule is in the proper hands.

The United States are not united.

You fought to be a free nation.

A nation - but it's a collection of tribes now.

Southern states beat tom-toms over the tariff.

New York yells against the taxes.

Every citizen wants everything for himself.

A country so divided and a people so selfish

makes a very tempting dish.

-Aaron, that's no way to take defeat.

-Defeat? I'm not defeated.

When the union breaks up, I'll pick up the pieces.

Jefferson can have his day now.

-I'll have mine later.

-Not that way.

I'll preach freedom and rebellion.

I will lead and the rabble will follow,

and in the end, I will rule.

I'll rule without election or Congress.

Treason! You shouldn't talk like that! Men died for our liberty!

You call it treason, I call it destiny. Your destiny and mine.

-You frighten me when you talk like that.

-I'll rule this country alone.

Only you will be at my side always.

MEN SPEAK IN LOW VOICES

SHE COUGHS Dolly! This is a surprise!

-Did you hear the debate?

-No, James.

-I thought they'd never finish.

-May I speak to you privately?

-Sit down here. No-one will disturb us.

Are you sure? I know women are not supposed to be here.

No-one will mind. You seem troubled. Sit down.

I am troubled.

It's something that women are not supposed to be troubled with.

-A woman's hand is always needed to solve a problem.

-Even in politics?

Yes. Lots of women were involved in politics -

Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth - you're not alone!

-My coming here doesn't seem strange?

-I think it's delightful.

-Do you have a bill you want me to sponsor?

-No, but a lot of questions.

That's good. There's no better place for a citizen to ask questions.

James, isn't it true that

man's effort to be free has always failed?

Yes.

That's been the record for the past 8,000 years up until now.

Are you afraid we'll fail again?

-I don't know. Is that a bad thing to say?

-I don't think so.

I ask myself that. I have doubts, too - very often.

But I say, this is the last great hope of man. We can't let it fail.

-But it is in danger?

-Yes.

I wonder how we had the courage to fight for it.

Maybe it's a strength in the American soil.

Or something in the air that makes us want to be free.

-But we have it and we'll keep it, if the people want it.

-That's just it.

Some people don't want it.

They want a ruler. Advantages for themselves. Power to the few.

Yes, some people. But they're not people who understand freedom.

How would you define freedom, James? What do you say it is?

I don't know.

If I were called upon here by the representatives of the people

to define freedom...

what would I say?

Freedom is the right of every man to look upon every other man

and say, "I'm no better than you are, and you're no better than I am.

"I'm not yours. You're not mine.

"But together, we can be the strongest of all men.

"Together, we can make laws to settle our disputes.

"We can work out a way of life that will be good for all of us.

"This was the reason we fought to be free

"and this is the way we live in freedom."

-Is there some question from the member?

-Yes, there is.

What will happen if this idea of freedom

were attacked by a strong enemy?

I've only had one glimpse of freedom

and now I can't live without it.

I will die fighting those who try to shut it off.

You have doubts. I have them, too.

I also have this,

that this blessed dream of free men governed by their own laws

will take shape and grow, Dolly,

until it includes all people, all kinds, all races together.

It's all I have, this dream,

all I have to offer to still your doubts.

Sorry. I didn't mean to make a speech.

-James, it's all so clear to me now.

-You're not crying?

No. No, I'm not crying.

I know something now it seems I've always known.

I know now, James, that I love you.

I've been trying to say that to you since I first saw you.

And I didn't even have to propose.

No man has ever made a more beautiful proposal.

-This table is for making laws, not making love!

-It's all right, Hugo.

Forgive me, I didn't know!

I never dreamed!

Neither did I.

I want you to wear this necklace at your wedding.

It was your great-grandmother's.

I remember this! You used to wear it in Virginia!

-On great occasions.

-It's a wonderful present. Thank you, Mother.

This time, you must have a beautiful wedding.

I can say to our friends,

"Dolly is married to James Madison, a truly great man."

Yes, he is.

His love is the kind that will last forever.

His life and dreams are the kind that a woman can really share.

What does Aaron Burr think about this?

I haven't told him yet...

..but I will tonight.

I thought we might take supper out

to avoid Madison smugly denying he engineered Jefferson's nomination.

Aaron, I'd like to tell you something.

Not about politics, I hope?

-No. It's about us.

-What do you want to tell me?

I hope you'll understand this.

It's not very easy to explain.

I guess when things like this happen, they are always a little...

-What are you trying to say?

-I'm going to marry James Madison.

I knew it. Yesterday, on the hill.

-I didn't know it myself.

-Why are you doing this?

-I love him deeply.

-I'm sorry...

-Sorry! You'll be more sorry in time.

-You're hurting me!

-You've lost faith in me!

-No, please, Aaron!

Let me go!

You'll never forget me, Dolly. Not if you marry a dozen Madisons.

And I'll never forget you. Never.

'James Madison and I were married.

'After the election, when Tom Jefferson lost to John Adams,

'we moved to Virginia. James was a member of the Virginia legislature.

'We spent four wonderful and happy years on his family estate.'

-Dolly!

-Yes!

-Look, we have some visitors!

-Know what his name is?

-No.

-John Adams!

-Why?

-Look at him!

-Mr Madison.

-Oh, yes.

-This came

by courier from Washington.

Thank you.

It's from Tom Jefferson.

I hope he's coming to visit us.

He wants us to visit him. He's going to run for President again!

-That is good news.

-He wants me to help him campaign.

-I could close the house in a few days.

-It'll be an exciting campaign.

He has Aaron Burr running for his Vice-President.

He says that should ensure New York and Massachusetts.

Tom and Aaron are such strange running mates!

Tom's probably swung Burr round.

This last bit is for you.

"Dolly, I'm counting on you to keep things running smoothly."

Now what are you thinking?

I was thinking how happy we've been here these past four years.

We'll come back here afterwards.

Jefferson will make our country a model for every nation.

He has to win this election!

-And you want to help him, don't you, James?

-Yes, I do.

-All I can.

-And I want to help you all I can.

'We moved to Washington. After the campaign,

'we spent our fifth wedding anniversary alone, as planned.'

James! That's the most beautiful fan I've ever seen!

For the most beautiful woman I've ever seen.

-That's very useful, a fan.

-Open your present!

-Yes... Yes.

-Snuffbox?

-Mm-hmm.

-You're trying to make a dandy out of me!

-Don't you like it?

-I do!

-You'd better - I had to go to New York for it.

-I'm overwhelmed.

I'll offer snuff to everybody in the capital!

I shall blush modestly behind my fan!

I must have a new gown made to match my gift.

And I'll have to have a new waistcoat to house this!

You'll be the centre of attraction, my dear husband.

-<

-Mr Madison?

Some gentlemen to see you.

Tell them to...come in.

This was the evening that we were going to spend alone.

Public life and private plans seldom mix. They may not stay long.

-Don't ask them for supper!

-No.

-They may tell us about the election.

-We've been tricked.

-Jefferson and Burr are tying. 73 votes each.

Here's confirmation.

You mean the election will go to

the House of Representatives for a decision?

-It will.

-And there's danger there.

We'll meet with Mr Jefferson tonight.

I'll see you in a few moments.

I'm sorry, Doll. This is a poor end to our little celebration.

Maybe we should have stayed at home.

James, you must not let Aaron Burr be named President.

This is my fault. I wrote the election law. Burr found a loophole.

I didn't write a very good law, Doll.

I have a feeling when the House votes, we'll win two votes to one!

-It won't be less, Aaron - or should I say Mr President?

-Nine votes.

-Nine votes - and Jefferson will be Vice-President!

-He deserves it.

-Mr Alexander Hamilton, sir. >

-Tell him I'm not here.

Mr Burr. Pardon my presence - my business is urgent.

And private.

Please stay. Yes, Mr Hamilton?

I'm here to ask you to stop this folly and end this farce

and to notify the House of Representatives

that you ran for Vice-President,

-not for President.

-Why should they believe me?

Your claim to the presidency is distasteful,

dishonest, and repugnant to decent men.

What about men like yourself?

Aaron Burr, whatever influence I have, I shall use against you.

Any time in the future that you run for public office,

I shall oppose you.

Have you heard enough? So have I.

Jason, show Mr Hamilton to the door and then open the window.

Do join me.

You turned him out beautifully, Mr President!

-He'll never swing the vote.

-He may be meddlesome, but he's clever.

We must offset him.

-Let me think...

-If I were you, I'd go to Washington as soon as possible

and talk to every Congressman.

It's horse trading, and you can trade horses better than Hamilton.

Why didn't I think of that?

I'll sleep on it and let you know.

A Washington trip may be pleasant.

Hamilton will try to swing New York.

-The Federals hate Jefferson.

-Everyone hates him!

And Madison.

-What about John Marshall?

-Let's discuss it tomorrow.

-Certainly.

Jason will show you out.

I don't know what you'll think of me, coming here. I had to see you.

-I've dreamt of you!

-I know what you think of women and politics...

-I've wanted to talk to you!

-..but I can't let you go on doing this,

-without pleading with you to change your course.

-You look exactly the same...

-What course?

-This pretension to the presidency.

Pretension?

-Did Madison send you here?

-No.

Running errands for Mr Jefferson?

-No-one knows I'm here.

-Why did you come?

Aaron, once, you told me that you loved me.

Once? I told you more often than that.

I also told you I was going to become

the President of the United States and you were happy to know that man.

Now you're here to gain advantage for your husband.

This is more important than my husband or Mr Jefferson or you.

It's VERY important for me. I'm going to Washington tomorrow.

To win the vote by trading with men you despise.

It's sneaking in by the back door!

Serve as Vice-President. Jefferson did it. Adams did it.

You'll add to your political strength.

I'm stronger than Jefferson, Madison and Hamilton.

Then why cheapen yourself by going to Washington to buy and beg votes?

Cheapen myself?

To prove to you that this is my destiny, I won't go to Washington.

I won't lift a finger for my cause.

Will that make you happier?

Thank you, Aaron.

I know why you're here.

You won't admit it to yourself. You keep telling yourself it's over.

But it will never be over between us, Dolly. Never.

I don't want you to say this.

I'll always say it.

When my day comes, I'll find some way to have you at my side.

Goodbye, Aaron.

'Aaron Burr yielded and Jefferson was inaugurated as President.

'My husband was appointed Secretary of State.

'Thomas asked James and me to go with him to inspect his house.

'He said he had a job for me, too.

'He was a widower and wanted me to become

'the official hostess of Washington City and his house.

'I was delighted, but unprepared

'when Mrs John Adams opened the door for us.

'The contractor had promised to finish the President's house,

'but materials and good workmen were scarce,

'and the house had been built in the midst of a swamp.

'There were three feet of water over the kitchen floor.

'The great ballroom for entertaining European royalty

'was unfinished, with a line of washing hanging from end to another.

'In the midst of the confusion, Mr Jefferson gave me my assignment.

'I was to make the house warm,

'beautiful and friendly, so every American would feel at home here.

'It was difficult, but Thomas was not a man you failed.

'Soon, the work was done

'and we were giving lovely parties.'

Dolly, I was just saying

we should organise a trip to Virginia after this session.

-I'd love to! James?

-Tom Jefferson won't let him out of Washington.

-There's good reason to stay.

-Yes, for the man to succeed Jefferson.

Jonathan, James has no ambition to succeed him.

-That is the truth.

-You don't fool me.

-Any man would want to be President.

-Mr Aaron Burr! >

Vice-President of the United States!

Excuse me... Excuse me.

-Mr President.

-Mr Burr.

-Mr Vice-President.

Mr Secretary.

If you'll excuse me, I'd like to look around a little.

-Certainly.

-I may even find a friend here.

At last, you've come to one of my parties.

Hostess to the President. What a title for you, Widow Todd.

It's a difficult task at times,

-but...

-But easy to get, I'm sure.

You told me to step aside and Jefferson rewarded you.

I stepped down, you stepped up.

No-one - not even my husband - knows I went to New York to see you.

I'll never tell him. I wouldn't want him to know what a fool I was.

Did you come here tonight just to humiliate me?

I came to say what you robbed me of, I'll get for myself.

You may plan, Madison may dream. It will do you no good.

Thomas Jefferson will be the last President of the United States.

-That's irresponsible. You must end the suspicion and madness.

-Madness?

You know me better. What I set out to do, I do.

When it's done, you will know first.

Until then, Mrs Madison...

This is tragic, James.

-With your permission, sir...

-Certainly.

-Did Burr tell you about his duel with Alexander Hamilton?

-Duel?

-What happened?

-A courier said they fought with pistols. Burr killed him.

-Oh, no!

-Yes.

-Are you coming along?

-I always did want to see Mexico.

-Well, follow me!

They still think we'll attack Mexico.

-It's all they talk about.

-Blennerhassett's learning Spanish!

-Not much call for it in Washington.

-Maybe at the Embassy dinner.

-I thought he'd catch on.

-No.

We're the only ones who know - we're going to war with the United States.

Our advisors are waiting.

That's agreed. We move down the river and on to Mexico.

-To glory!

-You're sure the Army will be at war with Spain before then?

Yes. We shall pick up followers by the tens of thousands.

MUFFLED SHOUTS FROM OUTSIDE

Government troops are on their way!

-Hear that?

-Wait till he hears this!

-Sounds like trouble.

Government troops are headed this way.

-Who wants to fire the first shot?

-They're Government troops!

They're trying to spoil our plans.

The hour has come. We'll give them more than they bargained for.

One good ambush tonight and they'll scatter like leaves in a storm.

Commanders, sound assembly!

-Colonel Burr...

-Didn't you understand?

Yes, but I joined you for foreign conquest,

not to fight the US - nor did my men.

They won't ambush any soldier under the flag of my own country.

-They've come here to fight us!

-Couldn't we parley with them?

Get an explanation - or give one!

They only understand hot lead - and we'll give it to them!

-That's treason you're talking!

-Treason?

-Yes. Treason and rebellion.

MURMURS OF AGREEMENT

Soldier, I'll tell you one thing.

You who flocked here can beat these troops of the Government

if you have the courage to do so.

Follow where I lead and in one month,

you and I will be the rulers of the United States!

We can win every battle!

Listen to me!

Halt those men. They must listen! We can win!

Come back! You must hear me!

I have a plan to take all the southern states!

I have powerful friends waiting for us to march in!

Listen to me! Come back and listen, you cowards!

Throwing away an empire!

-You're a good barber.

-Thank you, Mr Burr.

Do they really think I'll commit suicide?

Some do. A fella did three years ago when they were due to hang him.

-I did his hair the night before.

-They won't hang me.

-You'll have a new barber now.

-Why? Are they hanging you?

No, I'm getting out of jail and Richmond.

Going back up to New Jersey.

Jenks, will you go through Washington on your way?

-I suppose so. It's as close that way.

-I have a letter I want delivered.

I'll give you 100 dollars in gold.

100 dollars?

-And enough for your fare besides.

-Mr Burr, I'm your man.

-Good.

-Deliver it to no-one but this lady.

-Yes, sir.

I told the gentleman you got scores of letters every day.

He said this was different.

-I'm Mrs Madison...

-I have a letter for you.

I was told to give it to you personally.

-Thank you.

-A pleasure, ma'am.

Oh, Doll, I have a meeting with Tom. I won't be late.

-James, may I have a word with you?

-Of course, Doll.

A man just brought me this note from Aaron Burr.

-You want me to read it?

-I wish you would.

"Dear Dolly, I need a friend in this hour.

"You're the only one I can turn to.

"Will you come to Richmond,

"if I ask you in the name of what we once meant to each other?

"Hopefully, Aaron Burr."

Yes...

Do you think I should go?

I don't know, Doll.

Would it hurt you - politically, I mean - if I did?

That wouldn't stop me if I wanted to do something - it shouldn't stop you.

People may talk.

-That wouldn't bother us, would it?

-It never has, James.

-No.

I don't know what to do. His letter is so full of humility.

It's so unlike him.

-This is a bitter hour for him, James.

-I don't doubt it.

If they find him guilty of treason, the penalty is death.

He could have been a great man.

He had such a brilliant mind.

-What led him to this folly?

-Tell me what to do.

I wish I could, but I can't, Doll.

It's a time when no-one can tell you what to do but yourself.

You'll find an answer. Your decision will be mine, whatever happens.

Forgive me...

I'm going to the meeting.

Miss Dolly, are you still here, sitting in the dark?

I'll just put a night light here.

-I didn't know it was so late.

-Is there anything I can do for you?

Yes, pack a box for me to take in the carriage.

We're leaving for Richmond tonight.

I don't like us coming down here alone.

You going to the jailhouse to see Mr Burr!

Never thought I'd see my Miss Dolly doing a thing like this!

He once did me a great favour. I must repay him.

Any time he crooked a finger, you'd go along - from the day you met him.

Is it so strange that I should pity a man who's facing death?

I have to do it, or I'll regret it my whole life.

I just hope it turns out all right.

You pray for me, and it will.

-No verdict yet.

-Burr's lawyer threw dust in the judge's eyes.

What did they mean by saying that

-the traitor had committed "no treason"?

-That's his defence.

-That's pretty strong.

-Didn't seem it to me.

His council say he committed no act of treason,

that his troops never fired at Government troops,

and his campaign was against Mexico.

But he wanted to overthrow the Government!

But it hasn't been proved in court!

-Is the trial over?

-Yes. We're waiting for the verdict.

-Where's the jailer's office?

-Around the corner.

-Thank you, sir.

-Miss Dolly, please be careful!

-Yes, I will.

< I saw him when he was a senator.

< I don't care! I say he's guilty.

-He's innocent.

-I'll bet you a dollar the verdict is to hang him.

-It's a bet.

-Easiest money I ever made!

Yes, ma'am? Something I can do?

-I'd like to see Mr Aaron Burr.

-A lot of people would.

-What's your name?

-Mrs James Madison.

Unless I get a pass from the court...

-Mrs JAMES Madison?

-Yes.

-Wife of the Secretary of State?

-Yes.

In that case, I think it'll be all right. This way.

-Aaron.

-Dolly, you're here!

-I wish there was something I could do.

You're here, that's all that matters. I've thought about you -

-how we danced, those inns...

-Yes.

-The time you came to New York.

I should never have let you leave.

You did a fine thing for your country that day.

I did it for you. I couldn't refuse you.

-And now you're here!

-I came here to give you my sympathy.

That's very touching, but I don't need your sympathy - or anybody's.

-The penalty for treason is...

-Death.

I met him before and now he's missed me again.

The verdict is not guilty. I bribed a bailiff to listen to the vote.

-Aren't you happy?

-I am. I hope all of this has made you think, Aaron.

It has. I'll never make the same mistakes again.

-I am glad.

-That's why I sent for you. We love each other.

I wanted you here to see me triumphant.

This verdict may not be popular with the people.

I should hope not. I want them to hate me.

I want them to hate the laws, the court. I want to sow hate

-and reap power!

-But you said that this had made you think!

-It has!

I thought of the power of fear and hate. Don't you see what it means?

When I go free, I'll be bigger than the Government. They'll have fear!

They'll try to attack me and be shot down by their own soldiers!

Then the country's weak, greedy and suspicious men will flock to me.

This time, I'll offer you the crown!

Mr Burr, the court's reconvening and they're reading the verdict.

If you please, Mrs Madison.

This time, Mrs Madison, I won't fail!

-He was nearly President.

-You can't skin a fox before he's caught.

-They'll skin him, all right.

-Should have shot him the day they got him!

-Arthur, wait a moment.

-You want to stay?

-I want to know what happens.

-Court's dismissed.

-What's the verdict?

-Not guilty.

Not guilty?! Did you hear that?

Stop that bell! Stop that bell! Stop it!

They just pronounced Aaron Burr innocent.

I say he's guilty! CHEERING

I say Aaron Burr is a traitor! CHEERING

The law states plain what happens to traitors. Those judges know

he's guilty. Honest men told the truth about him!

Where's justice when he gets off scot-free?

If those judges won't hang a traitor, we can do it ourselves!

We can show them that a good rope from a high oak tree

is better than all their law books!

We'll show them what free men think of traitors - yes, sir!

Get that rope from my wagon.

If he won't come out, we'll go in and drag him out!

-Stop it! Stop it!

-What is that, ma'am?

-You must not do this!

Don't you believe in justice?

Justice was never done by a mob!

Was that justice in court today? You've got a queer sense of justice!

SHOUTING

She can talk about it, can't you? Tell 'em who you are!

Go ahead. I'll tell them, then!

-This lady is Dolly Madison!

-What?

The wife of a bigwig in Washington!

I charge her with bringing orders to the judges from Washington

-to set Burr free!

-That is not true!

You may have saved his life in there,

but you won't do it out here!

I did not save him.

I brought no messages from Washington

and I did not see the judges!

So you just came to see Aaron Burr - all the way from Washington?!

I came to comfort a man I thought would be condemned to death.

You didn't come in vain, Mrs Madison.

Here's the kind of justice we have for him!

We'll show those judges what we think of their laws and courts!

CHEERING

Stop it! Stop it!

If you hang Aaron Burr, you will put an end to freedom here today!

Wrong! We'll put an end to Burr!

If you hang him, you will prove the laws meaningless!

You fought for the freedom to make those laws!

We made 'em - we can break 'em!

When you made those laws, you agreed to live by them and obey them.

If they're not strong enough, strengthen them -

never take them into your own hands in mobs like this!

-This is not freedom!

-We're free men. We'll do what we like!

Your laws say a man should be tried and judged by men like himself.

And if that man is found innocent by the law,

he shall be held innocent by the people.

-What about Burr, is he innocent?

-He has already been tried, sir!

This is your trial - and the whole world is watching here today.

Will you react with violence and disobedience to your laws -

showing you're a people too weak to live under law?

Do you need a tyrant, an emperor to rule by force and fear?

Aaron Burr would have abolished your laws, courts and rights.

Yet you're abolishing them yourselves!

Burr is the first to challenge your freedom, he will not be the last!

Then we'll hang him and discourage all the rest!

That will not discourage them.

We must live the example of a free people, proving to any men

who try to destroy our freedom that with clean hands and united hearts,

we can deal with traitors

as a people under law!

Here he is - remember, he's a free man under your laws.

Those soldiers are under oath to protect the laws.

Try to take Burr and your soldiers will have to fire on you!

Mr Burr wants you to do just that - to spill your blood here.

He wants you to hate him, fear him.

Your fear and hate will make him strong.

Other traitors will join him. That is his plan! He told me that.

-Have him deny that, if he can!

-SHOUTING

If you want to destroy him, don't make a martyr of him.

Turn away from him. Let him pass in peace. Turn your backs on him.

Let him pass on into the oblivion he has chosen for himself

Mr Madison, I love you very much.