Slaughter Trail

WAR CRIES

# There are stories of the West

# Of the glories of the West

# And they glorify the hardy pioneers

# But you'll find the tale we tell Is the tale of what befell

# Our young lady as she rode by bandolier

What's the aim of the story?

# To tell a tale

What's the name of the story?

# Slaughter Trail!

Now, where is this trail, and where does it go?

# It runs to Arizona through New Mexico

# The report from out the West

# From the forts throughout the West

# Was that everything was peaceful as could be

# In that period sublime Coming after Lincoln's time

# When America had grown from sea to sea

-Will there be some fightin' in it?

-Yes, sirree!

Are our soldiers going to win it?

# Wait and see!

Does the soldier love a lady, or does he just pretend?

# The answer to that question's comin' at the end

# There'll be nothin' highfalutin

# There'll be shoutin', there'll be shootin'

# If you want to know what else is in this tale

# Fix your eyes upon the screen

# On a Cinecolor scene

# And ride with us along the Slaughter Trail!

# It was 1882 And the sky was peaceful blue

# When a stagecoach rode in view Across the trail

# And the horses pulled and strained But the driver kept them reined

# For he knew his coach contained The US Mail

# You could only hear the sound Of the hoofbeats on the ground

# And the wheels as they went round The Slaughter Trail

# Now, the driver, Matt Magroot A dependable galoot

# Helped to pioneer the route And blaze a trail

# Sittin' by the driver's side Ridin' shotgun was McBride

# On whom Uncle Sam relied To guard the mail

# You could only hear the sound Of the hoofbeats on the ground

# And the wheels as they went round The Slaughter Trail

# Now, the coach was Frisco bound If you looked inside you found

# A young lady fair and round And dressed to kill

# And the drummer, Rupert Black Quite a hypochondriac

# It's time now, Mr Black To take your pill

# You could only hear the sound Of the hoofbeats on the ground

# And the wheels as they went round The Slaughter Trail

# But the calm was soon to end For in hidin' round the bend

# Are three bandits who intend To rob the mail

# And the masks of their disguise Hide the their hatred in their eyes

# They're the guys who terrorise The Slaughter Trail

# You could only hear the sound Of the hoofbeats on the ground

# They're the bandits goin' round The Slaughter Trail. #

I know it! I feel it! I'm going to have a stroke.

Put down your gun.

-Now get down. Bring the mail pouch with you.

-Everybody out, pronto.

Come out with your hands up.

Come on.

-This is an outrage, shooting at defenceless passengers!

-Open it.

-Have you no respect for the law?

-Around here, I'm the law.

Right now I'm ordering you to shut up and walk in that direction. Go on.

See if the dude's got anything on him that's worth taking.

Oh, please, don't take my pills. I can't live without them.

I'll see that you're all hung for this!

OK, honey. Everything's under control.

You can stop acting now.

Oh, beautiful.

Stash it.

Take your hands off of me!

-How am I doing?

-Fine.

From here on in, it's a buggy ride.

I'll meet you tomorrow in Clifton.

From there to F'risco, it'll be a breeze.

Now go back to the coach and make out like you hate me.

-Yeah.

-Go on.

Beat it.

All right, get in. Go on, get up there!

Goodbye, folks. I'm sorry to have inconvenienced you.

The east lies that way. I'd head that way if I was you.

HE LAUGHS

HE LAUGHS HYSTERICALLY

AIMLESS GUNSHOTS

Did you hear that horrible laugh?

Only a demented murderer would laugh like that.

# Now the bandits on from here On the trail to Bandelier

# For they wanted to appear they're heading east

# And their hoofprints will suggest they went north-east to the crest

# But they've gone a circle west with speed increased

# You could only hear the sound of the hoofbeats on the ground

# And the bandits going round the Slaughter Trail

# But the winds of vengeance wore down the men who break the law

# They will even up the score with those to blame

# They were riding kinda well, when the pace began to tell

# Now their horses' ankles swell until they're lame

# You could only hear the sound of their curses when they found

# That their horses couldn't pound the Slaughter Trail... #

Blast our luck. These horses are shot.

I wouldn't be giving up so fast I was you.

-What makes you so darn cheerful.

-I reckon you don't see what I see.

See them?

What we waiting for? Those horses are aching to be rode.

Grab your saddles. Let's not keep them waiting.

GUNSHOTS

# They pillaged and they plundered But again the bandits blundered

# For the wounded redskin thundered down the trail

# He had dragged himself from hiding and his pony he was guiding

# To his clansmen he was riding with a tale

# You could only hear the sound of the hoofbeats on the ground

-# And the redskin went around the Slaughter Trail...

-#

-Daddy, the stage is here, the stage is here!

-Whoa there, Nancy.

-Is my surprise on it?

-Well, I'm not sure, but I hope so.

I beg your pardon, sir.

Nancy, you know better than to come running into the captain's office like this.

Well, he's your captain, but he's my daddy.

Yes, sir... Oh, yes, ma'a... Oh, you know what I mean!

Now, you come along.

You run along with Sergeant Macintosh, honey.

I got some business to attend to.

Carry on, Sergeant. Daddy has business.

Fort Marcy!

You'll find food and refreshments in the canteen.

I don't want food, I want a doctor! I must see a doctor.

Sorry, can't help you. This here's a cavalry post.

We ain't got nothing but a horse doctor.

-How soon before we start moving?

-It depends on Captain Dempster.

What he says goes.

You're three hours late. What were you doing?

-Having tea with the Indians?

-Couldn't help it, Captain.

-We was held up.

-You were what?

-They got McBride.

There was three of them this time.

Couldn't make much out of their faces, they wore masks.

But the leader had a weird kind of laugh.

-He seemed to think everything was funny.

-Three of them?

-What were you carrying? Gold?

-No, just the mail.

Come to think of it, they seemed to know what was in the pouch.

He rummaged through the mail bag until he found a package he was looking for.

Got McBride, huh? Sounds like the Vaughn Gang.

Oh, the Vaughn Gang never operated this far west.

I guess they were getting a little cramped in Texas.

Figured the stagecoach would be easier farther west.

-Captain, we done the best...

-I know. Get yourself some grub.

We'll take care of the Vaughn Gang.

Nobody's going to commit murder and robbery in this territory.

-I hope I'm not intruding...

-What can I... Oh, excuse me.

Captain, this here is Miss Larkin, one of my passengers.

Captain.

I'm very anxious to get to San Francisco.

How soon before we get going?

Well, I'm sorry to delay your trip,

but I think you better stay over a few days.

Oh, but I'm not interested in stopping over.

-I'd like to leave as soon as possible.

-I understand that,

but you'll need to wait until we can find a replacement to ride shotgun.

How long will that take?

I can't tell you at the moment, but I'll let you know.

Captain, I insist that we leave immediately.

Miss Larkin, I'm trying to remember my manners,

but I find you exceedingly rude.

I have more important matters to attend to. A man has been killed.

The driver will let you know when the stagecoach is ready to leave.

I thought you were an officer and a gentleman!

I'm the commanding officer of Fort Marcy.

The gentlemen you'll find in San Francisco.

HE LAUGHS

-Guess he told you, didn't he, lady?

-Don't worry. I'll have the last word.

Not if you give orders to a man whose business is giving orders.

You seem to know him quite well. What approach would you suggest?

Charm, lady. Feminine charm.

KNOCKS ON DOOR

-Lieutenant Morgan reporting, sir.

-At ease, Lieutenant.

Here's a federal circular on the Vaughn Gang.

I have an idea they're the bunch who held up that stagecoach.

What's good's this? It doesn't show faces.

What do you want? You seem to forget this is a wilderness.

-This could be any three men, Captain.

-Precisely.

Out here, we have to rely on instinct.

Take a detail and trail them down.

The driver tells me they headed for Bandolier Mountain

-but I have an idea that was just a decoy.

-Yes, sir.

-And don't come back without them.

-Very well, sir.

By the way, Lieutenant...

You better take an Indian scout. I'd choose Chamorra.

He knows this country backwards.

Yes, sir.

Hard Saddle, why did you ever join the cavalry?

Well, why did you?

Well, Sarge. It's a long story. Especially the way I tell it.

# Recruiting posters are printed to attract the not so wise

# If what they said was really true, they needn't advertise... #

You know, nothing bothers you.

Anybody that goes through life just singing must be crazy.

# There you stand and scrub your horse

# While he works just as hard, of course

# I just sing a melody

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# Now I got some bullets and I got a gun

# But shooting at people just ain't fun

# Then why'd you join the cavalry?

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# Do-dee-do dee-voo day

# I don't care if I feel this way

# Do-dee-do dee-do dee

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# When I eat pears, I eat the core

# I throw the meat upon the floor

# The seeds are best of all, you see

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# When I go squawkin' with a lass

# I lead her through the meadow grass

# I don't kiss her, she kisses me

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' he

# Do-dee-do dedalo day

# I don't care if I feel this way

# Do-dee-doo dedalo dee

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# White men chase the Navajos

# The Navajos chase the others, oh

# But I sit tight till they come to me

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# Some drink whisky, some drink port

# Some folks drink from night till morn

# I drink my water straight, you see

# And chase it down with rye whisky

# Doo-dee do da dedalo day

# I don't care if I feel this way

# Doo-dee do da dedalo dee

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# You ride your horse until you bend

# But where's it get you in the end

# I walk my horse and let him be

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# When couples marry, they tempt fate

# Because their love can turn to hate

# I love them all but I stay free

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me

# Do-dee do da dedalo day

# I don't care if I feel this way

# Do-dee do da dedalo dee

# Everyone's crazy acceptin' me. #

THEY LAUGH

Sergeant, get a patrol ready.

Full field equipment, three days' rations. We leave immediately.

Yes, sir.

All right, you guys. You heard what the Lieutenant said. On the double.

Come on, let's get everything packed.

-When are we leaving?

-It's up to Captain Dempster.

Well, I guess I better help him make up his mind.

Yeah, but don't forget what I said about charm.

Feminine charm.

-KNOCKS ON DOOR

-Come in.

-Miss Larkin to see you, sir.

-Send her in.

Yes, sir. Miss Larkin...

-Captain Dempster...

-Miss Larkin.

I... I want to apologise for the way I acted this morning.

I guess the combination of the long trip

and what happened sort of upset me.

I'm terribly sorry.

-That's all right.

-How long do you think it'll be before we can go on?

That all depends.

Oh, but the driver told me he was willing to go on

without a replacement, only you ordered him to stay.

-That's right. I did. You must be in quite a hurry.

-Yes.

Oh, yes, I am, Captain. You see, it's my grandmother. She's terribly ill.

I'll never forgive myself if I don't get there in time.

-Well, that's too bad.

-Oh, please, please let us go on.

-Well, if I do, I can't...

-Oh, thank you, Captain! I'll never forget this.

Goodbye, Captain.

Well, I see you're all set and ready to roll.

What made you so sure I'd let you go?

Well, if she convinced me, I knew she'd convince you.

HE LAUGHS

# You must cover lots of ground

# When you're Arizona bound

# So the wheels keep going round as you rolled on

# And because she had her way, Lorabelle is feeling gay

# For tomorrow is the day she's meeting Vaughn

# You could only hear the sound of the hoofbeats on the ground

# And the stage as it went round the Slaughter Trail

# The horizon greets the eye as the desert meets the sky

# And the cavalry rides by along the way

# They are following the trail of the men who robbed the mail

# And they know they mustn't fail to find their prey

# Now we see a group of tents They're the red men's residence

# And they add to the suspense on Slaughter Trail

# Now the redskin told his chief

# How his loved ones came to grief

# That the white man was a thief, and furthermore

# When the pale faced guns had spoken

# A lasting truce was broken

# So the chieftain raised the token which meant war

# You can only hear the sound of the war drums as they pound

# And the message that goes round the Slaughter Trail... #

INDIANS WAR WHOOP

# On the stage, they're unaware of the danger in the air

# For the Navajos are there, in front and back

# As the Indian's encroach, Paako signals for the coach

# They break ambush and approach for the attack

# You could only hear the sound of the hoofbeats on the ground

# As the redskins went around the Slaughter Trail

# There are Indians to the left

# There are Indians to the right

# And they ride with all their might to make the kill

# As they hasten in their flight, Lorabelle is filled with fright

# And the driver fears he might be killed

# The horses pull and strain, but their efforts are in vain

# For the redskins seem to gain upon the stage

# But it seems an act of grace led our soldiers to the place

# And they rode into the chase from the hill

# You can hear the heartbeat pound when Lieutenant Morgan found

# There were redskins all around the Slaughter Trail... #

Full charge!

GUNSHOTS

GUNSHOTS

GUNSHOTS

GUNSHOTS

GUNSHOTS

-What's the matter? Scared?

-Who, me?

Scared?

GUNSHOTS

I thought you said you were

the hottest Indian fighter east of the Rio Grande.

That was east of the Rio Grande.

West of the Rio Grande, I ain't so hot.

GUNSHOTS

GUNSHOTS

-I hope you're all right.

-Yes, thanks to you and your men.

GUNSHOTS

Steady!

-Lieutenant, I want to thank you again for...

-Madame, don't thank us.

Thank the bandits who held you up this morning.

If their trail didn't lead westward from the mountain,

-we wouldn't have been here in time.

-You mean you haven't caught them yet?

-We might have if you hadn't taken us off their trail.

-I resent that.

-Why blame me!

-You seem to have a special talent for attracting trouble.

After this delay, I doubt if we'll ever catch them.

Lieutenant, it appears that one of the qualifications for being

an officer in the US Cavalry is rudeness.

If you don't mind, I think I'll continue my trip.

And if you don't mind, you'll kindly step back into the coach. We're going back to the fort.

-Those Indians don't scare me!

-Don't press your luck too far.

-We're all ready, Lieutenant.

-All right, Sergeant, mount the patrol.

Patrol mounted!

KNOCKS ON DOOR

-Lieutenant, back so soon. Good.

-Hold the compliments, Captain.

I'm sorry to report our mission was not accomplished.

-Then what the blazes are you doing back here? You had your orders.

-I had no alternative, sir.

-Huh?

We were trailing the bandits west when we crossed paths with a band of Navajos attacking the stage.

Navajos? Chief Paako and I have been friends for years.

-Are you sure they were Navajos?

-Positive.

-Any casualties?

We lost the driver. Two others were wounded.

Lieutenant, one of the few things I've been able to

accomplish in this forsaken place is to keep peace with the Navajos.

-We've had a treaty with them for years.

-Not any more.

-I'm not so sure.

Chief Paako wouldn't attack without a good reason.

-Indians on the war path are beyond reason.

-Where did you learn that?

-In a textbook?

-No, sir. On Slaughter Trail.

Those Navajos ought to be taught a lesson.

I know how to handle Chief Paako.

This situation calls for diplomacy, not force.

Let's go.

I beg your pardon, sir. Miss Larkin requests another audience.

-Captain Dempster, would you please...!

-Captain Dempster would not!

If I hadn't listened to you, the stagecoach driver would still be alive.

Until further notice, you're confined to the fort.

How dare you! By what right do you think you can give me orders?!

By what right?! By an act of congress.

Pardon me.

Temper, temper!

Why won't you watch!...

-Sorry... Did I hurt you?

-No. Did I hurt you?

-No. Of course not.

-Um, look, do you know where I can find the women's quarters?

-Come.

-I'll show you.

-Thank you.

-What's your name?

-Nancy Dempster. My daddy is commander of this post.

-Really?

-What's your name?

-Lorabelle. Lorabelle Larkin.

I like that name. It's pretty.

-But you may call me Lorabelle.

-Thank you. You may call me Nancy.

-Thank you.

-Well, here we are.

What beautiful gowns.

Do all the women back east wear such pretty clothes?

Well, only those that can afford to.

I bet you'd look beautiful in that gown.

Thank you, Nancy.

-That's a nice doll you have.

-She's a present from Chief Paako.

He gave it to me when he and Daddy signed the truce.

Oh, then you must have had her for a long time.

-Wow, that's beautiful. Can I see it?

-Sure.

When you grow up, maybe you'll have lots of pretty things.

-Miss Larkin?

-Yes?

-I'm Susan Wilson, the school teacher.

-Oh, how do you do?

I hope you don't mind my sharing your quarters with you.

-It'll only be a short while.

-Not at all.

Is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable?

-I don't think so. Nancy's been very helpful.

-Come on, Nancy. School time.

-Bye, Lorabelle.

-Bye.

Well, Saddle, you're a veteran now.

-You mean I'm no longer a rookie?

-Heck no.

Now that you've tasted blood and thunder

and you've fought the Indians,

you can look any man right in the eye and say,

"Here stands a fighting member of the United States Cavalry."

I bet that was the toughest Indian fight you was ever in.

-Toughest fight?

-SCOFFING:

-That was child's play.

You mean to say you've had it tougher?

Why, I remember when I was with the 7th Cavalry back in Kansas,

we were fighting the Cheyennes. It was the Battle of Chickasaw.

I don't know how it happened, but, all of a sudden, there I was,

all alone, all by myself,

so I whipped my horse around and started back to the regiment.

There, right in front of me, were 50 Indians,

so I turned around and started to retreat...

There, blocking my path, was 100 Indians.

So, quick, I turned to the left, and coming right at me, 200 Indians.

So I turned around to take to the right...

300 Indians bearing down on me. All around me, Indians.

Indians in front of me, Indians in back of me,

Indians to the left of me, and Indians to the right of me.

-What happened?

-What happened?

I got killed.

If you were killed, how come you're still living?

You call this living?

LAUGHTER

-Sergeant Macintosh.

-Yes, sir.

Replace your casualties and mount the patrol. We're going out again.

Very well, sir. Patrol, fall in!

# Oh, the hills are bearing brown

# Wearing cactus for a crown

# And the heat keeps bearing down without relief

# And the sweat pours through your clothes, but Lieutenant Morgan knows

# They must reach the Navajos and see their chief

# You could only hear the sound of the hoofbeats on the ground,

# As the Cavalry went round the Slaughter Trail

# Now the heat is so intense

# And you curse it, so immense

# And your spirits are so dense that you can't talk

# You've gone halfway across the state and your misery is great

# And your horse can't bear your weight, and so you walk

# You could only hear the sound of the hoofbeats on the ground

# As your horses drag around the Slaughter Trail

# It's approaching even tide when the sun begins to hide

# And so once again you ride, you're like a king

# Now your horses start to fly, there's a twinkle in your eye

# And your spirits feel so high you got to sing

# When the sky has turned to rust

# And your throat is dry as dust

# While you're riding for the shadows and the shade

# As your horses pound the ground

# You can hear the welcome sound of the hoofbeat serenade

# Then the miles begin to fly

# As the wind goes rushing by

# And you know you've reached the coolness of the glade

# You're in rhythm with your mount and your mount is keeping count

# To the hoofbeat serenade

# The song wind, the hum of the breeze

# The tune of the loon on the wing

# The cry of a bird, and with it is heard

# The rustling of leaves in the spring

# Then the mountains take the sound

# And they echo it around

# Till it comes back twice as strong as it was played

# There is music in our horse, and his melody, of course,

# Is the hoofbeat serenade

# Hear the song of the wind, hear the hum of the breeze

# The tune of the loon on the wing

# Hear the cry of the bird, and with it is heard

# The rustling of leaves in the spring

# Then the mountains take the sound

# And they echo it around

# Then it comes back twice as strong as it was played

# There is music in our horse, and his melody, of course,

# Is the hoofbeat serenade. #

Halt.

Dismount!

Chief Paako, I come to you with heavy heart.

For many moons now, your tribe and my people have lived in peace,

-but you have broken our long-time truce.

-This is not true.

White man broke long time truce.

My people wish to live in peace, but white men killed my brethren and steal their horses.

Our treaty is broken and Navajos seek revenge.

What good is there seeking revenge on innocents?

What good do white men find in shooting innocent Navajos?

Chief Paako, it grieves me much to hear of this terrible injustice to

your blood brothers, but you cannot take the law into your own hands.

When white man sins he must be punished by white man.

When white man sins against red man,

he shall be punished by red man. That is Navajo law.

My government has every respect for the Navajo tribe and their laws.

I promise you that we will do all in our power to capture these man

and see that they pay for their crimes.

Please go back and tell that to your people

-and let's live in peace again.

-There can be no peace between us

until you find the guilty ones and deliver them to me.

My commander asked for a truce,

so that we can settle things between us in a peaceful manner.

Tell your chief that we will wait until the sun has risen two more times in the eastern heavens.

If, by that time, you have not delivered the guilty ones to me,

I will gather all the tribes and there shall be war between us.

I beg you to reconsider, Chief Paako.

There must be better ways to settle our differences.

Why seek an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth?

Navajos want a life for a life!

Can I be of any service to you, neighbour?

-When's the stage due from San Felipe?

-Well, sir, it's due any minute now.

But it ain't coming.

That supposed to be a joke? I don't get it.

Oh, it ain't no joke, neighbour.

See, the Navajos have been raising hell along the Slaughter Trail

and there ain't going to be no stage coming through.

At least-wise until the military puts down this Navajo uprising.

How long will that take?

Well, can't tell. May take a few days, may take a few weeks.

Then again, it may take a few months. That all depends.

Depends on what?

Well, depends on what the Indians want,

what we're willing to give them, and what the hell it's happening for.

Thanks. You've been a great help(!)

Now we know less than we did before we asked you.

Oh, that's all right, son.

Any time you want to know anything, you just drop in and ask me.

I'm always willing to tell you.

Where can we get a drink around here?

Well, sir, right down the road there, there's a saloon.

-And they got awful good liquor too, boy.

-Sounds good to me. Let's go.

Wait a minute. Ain't no use going down there, boys. It's closed.

I ought to know.

Well, what do we do next?

Go back to Fort Marcy and get hold of Lorabelle and the jewels.

You going loco?

They see the three of us together,

they'll figure out who we are in no time.

He's right. I ain't sticking my neck out any more than I have to.

What about Lorabelle?

Can't leave her stranded at that fort all by her lonesome.

She's got the jewels for company.

They ought to keep her from being too lonesome.

Yeah, they'll start to make her nervous.

Toting all that evidence around a military post is kind of dangerous.

We got to get her out of there.

You mean YOU'VE got to get her out of there.

Not we. She's YOUR gal.

All right. I'll go myself.

-Once I get to her, I'll figure a way of getting her out.

-No, you don't.

Once the two of you break free with that loot,

-we'll never see you again.

-What makes you think I'd do that?

Cos that's just what I'd do if I was in your place.

Wait a minute.

I think you ought to go back to the fort, try and get Lorabelle out.

We'll go with you as far as Elephant Rock. We'll wait for you there.

Supposing he can't get out of the fort...

I'll get out.

All right, let's go.

Daddy!

-Nancy!

-Daddy!

I suppose you want to cancel the regular Saturday night social?

Oh, Daddy, please don't cancel the Saturday night social!

-Of course not, Lieutenant, Nancy would never forgive me.

-But Paako...

Navajos never attack at night.

Yes, sir.

Halt!

-Yes, sir.

-I'm headed west and I'd like to put up overnight if I could.

Follow me, sir.

-Sir, this man wishes to stay over night.

-Yes?

-My name is Murray.

-I'm a cattleman heading for Arizona.

-Cattle? Arizona?

-I heard there was mighty plain grazing land to be had there.

-Maybe.

I'll be on my way first thing in the morning.

I think you better figure on taking a good, long rest.

There's been a Navajo uprising.

All civilians are restricted to the fort until it blows over.

I guess I'm lucky I got here with my skin in one piece.

Yeah, guess you are.

# Falling down, falling down

# London bridge is falling down

# My fair lady... #

LAUGHTER

# Get the key and lock her up

# Lock her up, lock her up...

# Take the key and lock her up... #

Um, Nancy, you take my place, will you?

Let's start all over again. Ready? Go.

You must be out of your mind coming here.

I thought you'd be glad to see me.

Not under these circumstances.

That's gratitude for you.

I risk my neck coming here to get you,

and you treat me like I was poison.

You are poison as far as the army's concerned.

Do you think I want to see you hung?

Why would the army want to hang a respectable rancher like me?

They're so fond of me,

they insist I be their guest until the Indians calm down.

You got more nerve than brains. Maybe that's why I'm so crazy about you.

-Where's Heath and Levering?

-Waiting for us at Elephant Rock.

-Got the jewels?

-Yes.

-Good.

-As soon as it gets dark, we're getting out of here.

-How?

Don't worry. I'll figure a way.

-Hey, kids!

-Singalong, sing us a song!

ALL: Yeah!

-Go get my guitar.

-Sure.

Move over here.

# Wish I was a mole in the ground

# I wish I was a mole in the ground

# If I was a mole in the ground, look, I'd root that mountain down

# I wish I was a mole in the ground... #

A bee, a bee.

# I wish I was woolly, boogie bee

# I wish I was a woolly, boogie bee

# I was a woolly, boogie bee, I'd make my nest so comfy

# I wish I was a woolly, boogie bee... #

How about a squirrel?

# I wish I was a squirrel with a big, long tail

# I wish I was a squirrel with a big, long tail

# If I was a squirrel with a big, long tail

# Spread it right out and away I'd sail

# I wish I was a squirrel with a big, long tail... #

Can you be a fox?

# I wish I was a fuzzy, wuzzy fox

# I wish I was a fuzzy, wuzzy fox

# If I was a fuzzy, wuzzy fox

# I'd never have to change my socks

# I wish I was a fuzzy, wuzzy fox... #

An apple.

# I wish I was an apple on a tree

# I wish I was an apple on a tree

# If I was an apple on a tree

# Girl come along and take a bite of me

# I wish I was an apple on a tree... #

How about the sun?

# I wish I was the sun up above

# I wish I was the sun up above

# If I was the sun up above

# Shine right down on the one I love... #

BELL RINGS

# I wish I was the sun up above

# Oh, when I was a young boy and drove my mother wild

# I met a maiden in the wood and she said, "Child...

# "Look deep into my green eyes and at my autumn hair

# "When you're a man, you'll never see a girl quite as fair

# "Remember me, remember me

# "Remember for the rest of your life..." #

-Daddy, I'm wearing your surprise. Isn't it beautiful?

-Oh, it's lovely.

It's... Hey, why isn't it buttoned?

I guess I've grown since you ordered it.

You certainly are growing fast. Ah, well.

It takes the stagecoach a long time to make delivery.

But I want to wear it to the Saturday night social.

-Could you please fix it?

-Well, let's see.

Guess I'll have to move the buttons.

How about a story?

Once upon a time, there was an old, brave knight.

-What was his rank?

-Hmm?

-What was his rank?

Oh, I guess he was a knight...first class.

One day, he put on his armour, he got on his horse...

-Oh, he was in the cavalry?

-What else?

-Did he have a lady?

-Of course.

What was her name?

Ro... Ro...

-Roanoke.

-Daddy, that's in Virginia.

-Hmm?

-Oh, yeah. I got it. Lady Rowena.

-Uh, Captain!

-May I speak to you for a minute?

-No.

-Oh...

Forgive the interruption, Captain,

but I did ask the Sergeant if I might see you?

-Hello, Lorabelle.

-Yeah, what is it?

I just want you to know that I thoroughly understand...

Oh, Daddy knows, don't you, Daddy?

Thank you, Nancy.

-I know how you must you feel...

-Oh, Daddy knows, don't you, Daddy?

-Sergeant!

-Yes, sir?

-Don't just stand there. Come here.

Yes, sir.

-What do you want me to do?

-Finish it. Get out of here.

I don't know nothing about dressmaking. Come on, Nancy.

I never did any of that.

I didn't mean to shout, Miss Larkin.

I guess I've been around horses too long.

That's all right.

Have you any hopes of settling your differences with the Indians?

Well, I'm hoping for the best, but it looks pretty serious.

It's frightening when you think what three outlaws

can do to the lives of hundreds.

I'm really sorry. For a lot of things, I guess.

-Yeah... Well, I trust you're comfortable?

-Oh, yes. Yes, I am.

Miss Susan was kind enough to put me up.

You'll excuse me, Miss Larkin.

-Now you stop jiggling.

-I'm not jiggling! You're shaking!

Can I help you, Sergeant?

You sure can, ma'am.

I'm a lot better with a gun than I am this silly old needle.

-I'll bet two.

-I'll raise you.

-I raise you.

-I call.

-I'm calling.

-I call.

-I call. What you got?

-I got nothing.

-Nothing.

Ha! Nothing.

-Queens.

-How many?

-One.

-Good. I thought you were bluffing.

I don't understand it. I just don't seem to win a bet.

Well, maybe you're lucky in love.

-There must be some way of winning.

-Have you ever tried cheating?

Come on, boys. Annie up, Annie up.

-Again?

-Put your money where your mouth is. All right, here we go.

Around and around the joker goes, and where she stops, nobody knows.

-All right. It's a good honest deal.

-Make a good hand.

-Yeah.

Got a hunch this is all good hands this time.

What you got?

I bet four.

Bet 'em like you had 'em. What you got, deuces?

It's none of your business what he's got. What are you going to do?

I'm getting out while the getting's good.

How about you Mr Black?

My hand's not too good. I'll fold.

Well, I got a promising hand. I'll raise you four.

Call. All right. Two are out and three are in.

Draw the cars and the fun begins. How many?

I take one.

One.

-Three.

-One, two, three.

One, two, three, four.

How can you draw four when the limit's three?

-This is dealer's choice, ain't it?

-Yes.

Well, I'm the dealer and I choose to draw four cards.

Shoot the works, boys. This is it. Shoot the works.

This is a good hand. I'm betting.

-Call. You don't scare me.

-I'm so glad I got out when I did.

What have you got?

-A straight to the jack!

-Good, I've got four aces!

-Whoa, whoa! Hold on!

I got the winning hand.

-What have you got? A royal flush?

-What have I got?

2 of diamonds, 4 of hearts, 6 of spades, 8 of clubs,

and 10 of diamonds.

-What's that?

-What's that?! That's a sneaky peeky.

-It's the greatest hand you can hold.

-Sneaky peeky?

-Sneaky peeky?

-I never heard of it.

-Well, of course not. You're just a rookie.

Here, you did win the deal. Anyone want to float along?

I like to have some security.

-What have you got?

-I got three jacks.

-No good, I got three queens.

-This is the hand I've been waiting for. Sneaky peeky!

-No good.

-What do you mean no good?!

-Three aces.

I thought you told me sneaky peeky was the highest hand you could get?

It is, but it's only good once a night.

Shall we skip the light fantastic?

Of course, I use the word light advisedly.

He's changing the guard at midnight.

One minute after 12, I want you walking by the main gate.

We'll make our break then.

-What are we using for horses?

-I got them.

You know I can look in your eye and see you've led a gay romantic life.

-If I'm not too personal, what do you do for a living?

-I sell coffins.

SHE GIGGLES

-Daddy, why are you still mad at Miss Larkin?

-Mad at her?

-Yes?

Well, if it'll make you feel any better, we're on very good terms. Now, anything else?

Yes. Why don't you dance with her? She's awful pretty.

All right.

-Don't you think you better take these jewels now?

-No, they're safer on you.

Smile. You're having a good time, remember?

Miss Larkin, I trust you're enjoying yourself?

Oh, very much, Captain,

but I was hoping you were going to ask me for a dance.

Nothing would suit me more.

However, I was about to suggest a walk in the moonlight.

Good.

I'm glad you and my daughter hit it off so well, Miss Larkin.

-It's easy to get along with Nancy.

-I appreciate your kindness.

Lovely night, isn't it?

As commanding officer, I ordered that moon to appear.

You couldn't have ordered a lovelier moon.

-I hope it stays there for ever.

-For ever, Captain? How romantic.

Not romantic. Worry.

When that moon disappears and the sun rises,

I'm faced with an Indian attack.

-Is it really that serious?

-Very.

Last war with the Navajos cos Nancy her mother.

And your wife.

The only consolation I've had is this lasting truce with Chief Paako.

Now it looks like that might fall apart.

Isn't there any way to appease Paako?

Yes, if I can hand over the three outlaws who killed his tribesmen.

I couldn't do that, even if I had them.

Even if they're proven guilty?

Their guilt must be decided by a federal court,

not an Indian drumhead.

I don't know why I'm bothering you with my trouble.

You expect to be in San Francisco long?

-Depends.

-Your grandmother.

I like it here.

I mean, the people are nice. Even you after hours.

Oh, I know what it's like to be lonely.

See, I've lived with relatives all my life.

-Always a mansion, but never a home.

-Well, things may grow better.

Sooner than you think.

Maybe.

Shall we go back?

Hey, Singalong, how about giving out with a song?

I've got just the song you're looking for!

# Handygun Pete and Larry Lou and Jittery Dearfoot Dan

# Were three notorious outlaws who hit the Rio Grande

# Handygun Pete was quick in the draw

# Larry Lou could rope

# And little old Jittery Dearfoot Dan could run like an antelope

# Ah yip ah yip ah yippy hi hey

# They never was three cow hands

# Could draw a gun or use a rope or run like Dearfoot Dan

# Now these three fellas would drop the coach

# And hold up the railroad train

# But little old Jittery Dearfoot Dan never got one third of a gain

# Dearfoot Dan, he never griped, no matter how he would hope

# Cos Pete was handy with a gun and Lou was mean with a rope

# Ah yip ah yip ah yippy hi hey

# There never was three cow hands

# Could draw a gun or use a rope or run with Dearfoot Dan

# Rewards were posted on every tree throughout the western land

# 5,000 dollars for Lou and Pete and one for Dearfoot Dan

# Now this got poor old Dan so mad, he said

# "I'll show them snakes!

# "There ain't enough money on my head for all the work it takes

# Ah yip ah yip ah yippy hi hey

# There never were three cow hands

# Could draw a gun or use a rope or run like Dearfoot Dan

# So when they next held up a train, the posse got there too

# Shot their horses while they ran

# So on their feet they flew

# Handygun Pete and Lariat Lou were killed by gun and rope

# But Jittery Dan, he's running still, just like an antelope

# Ah yip ah yip ah yippy hi hey

# There never was three cow hands

# Could draw a gun or use a rope or run like Dearfoot Dan

# Handygun Pete and Lariat Lou were buried right on the slope

# One still has a hold of his gun, the other has got his rope

# Rewards run high for Jittery Dan, but everyone's lost hope

# Cos they all know it ain't no use to chase an antelope

# Ah yip ah yip ah yippy hi hey

# There never was three cow hands

# Could draw a gun or use a rope or run like Dearfoot Dan! #

CHEERING

Attention, everybody.

Hardsaddle Harry is going to give us his impersonation

of Buffalo Bill!

Impersonation - Buffalo Bill.

LAUGHTER

That was fine, sir!

LAUGHTER

HE LAUGHS HYSTERICALLY

Excuse me.

Captain Dempster, can I see you for a minute?

All right, everybody. Choose your ladies and sets.

Those on the sides, cut in when you want to. Let's go!

Please, Captain, it's very important.

Oh, take it easy, Mr Black. Have your drink first.

Captain, the man who held us up is here.

Mr Black, you better take another pill.

You're letting your imagination run away with you.

It's not my imagination, I'm positive.

There he is. Right there.

Dancing with Miss Larkin.

Why that's Mr Murray. He's a cattleman, he's a rancher.

Yes, and he's also a thief and a murderer.

-How do you know?

-I recognised him by his laugh.

I'll remember that bloodthirsty laugh till the day I die.

Thank you, Mr Black. Don't say anything to anybody about this.

-Why, Captain, what a pleasant surprise.

-Pleasure's all mine.

# Step right back and watch him grin

# An elbow hook and sling him again... #

What was Dempster talking to you about?

-Don't be so inquisitive.

-I want to know.

What's the matter? Jealous?

# Swing that gin across this set

# Hurry up, gal, you're not through yet... #

# All around your left hand lady

# See-saw, you put a little on... #

We meet again, Captain.

You and Mr Murray seem to be getting along nicely.

-What makes you think so?

-Did you ever see him before?

-Yes.

-Where?

-Tonight. At the supper table.

-Are you quite sure...

-Captain...Mr Murray is the kind of man a woman would never forget.

Did you get a good look at the man who held you up?

Miss Lorabelle, you dropped these.

-I'll take them, honey.

-I'll take them.

Captain, see that those gates are open pronto.

Put that child down, Vaughn.

I'll put her down when I'm free and clear of this fort.

I said I want those gates open.

Get moving, Lorabelle.

-I'm not going.

-What's the matter? Lost your nerve?

No, my taste.

Suits me fine. Three's a crowd.

Nobody get behind me.

I said nobody. Now get back.

That's more like it.

Stay where you are. Except you, Captain.

You're coming with me. When you get outside, give that order about the gate. Now start moving.

That's close enough.

Now, Captain, give that order about that gate, and make it real loud.

Open the gates!

DRAMATIC MUSIC

-Nancy! Nancy, are you all right?

-Daddy!

Now, now. You were very brave.

-Is she all right, Captain?

-Sergeant, lock her up.

-Yes, sir.

# He kept riding all night through till the morning came in view

# Then approached the rendezvous to meet his men

# They were happy as could be for they were back to three

# And they felt that they were free to rob again

# They began to cover ground and then suddenly they found

# There were redskins all around the cliffs

# All their guilty eyes could see was the wounded brave as he

# Recognised the wicked three and told his chief

# But they kept on riding through Some Navajos knew

# That death was riding too and time was free

# There were agents to the left

# There were agents to the right

# And the bandits knew they were not for sport

# No matter where they turned the Navajos appeared

# They were trapped and so they rode back to the fort. #

Open the gate!

Come here, Mr Vaughn.

Sergeant, lock 'em up.

All right, pick 'em up.

Sir, Chief Paako bearing a flag of truce is outside the fort.

-A flag of truce?

-Yes, sir.

-There's still hope.

Let's see what he wants.

You stay here, lieutenant.

Chief Paako! If you come in peace, I welcome you.

We come for the bad white man who harm my people.

You give him them to me, I go in peace.

I welcome your aid, Chief Paako,

you and your tribe can be witnesses against them when they're tried.

I refuse to wait for white man's justice.

Anger dies as time goes by.

When the shadow of spear move from west to east,

my patience will have ended.

If by that time you do not return the guilty ones to me,

we shall attack.

I'm in favour of turning them over. It's a cheap enough price for peace.

Are you ready to resign your commission?

-We're terribly outnumbered.

-That's the tough part of being a soldier. Talking won't do us any good now.

In less than 30 minutes they'll attack.

Captain, we can't afford another mistake.

-Another mistake, lieutenant?

-I think it was a mistake to allow the coach to leave the fort unprotected.

-Any further orders, Captain?

-Yes, sergeant. Empty the arsenal. Pass out all the ammunition.

Have Jamora get through to the next fort and send for reinforcements.

-If anybody can get through the Navajos, he can.

-Yes, sir.

Captain, the lives of our women

and children mean more than the Vaughn Gang.

Of course they do, but we have a sworn duty to preserve law and order.

As long as I'm in command we'll do it my way.

I want you to know that if we all aren't massacred, I intend to voice my...

Lieutenant, you're under orders.

Put all the children in the schoolhouse.

-And the women?

-They can reload the rifles and care for the wounded.

Yes, sir.

One thing more, lieutenant.

Bring the prisoners to me.

-They started this thing, let's see if they can help to finish it.

-Yes, sir.

-I want you to help care for the wounded.

-I'll be glad too.

-You should be.

-Captain!

-I know, you're sorry.

You keep saying that and I keep believing you.

-I don't expect you to believe me.

-Tell that to your grandmother.

-What do you want me to do?

-Follow me.

Be good, children. I'll sing you a song.

# There were redskins all about And we needed help no doubt

# So the sergeant sent a scout to Fort Marcy

# We were hoping he'd get through by a secret way he new

# But a redskin came in view and shot him dead

# They heard the rifle boom

# It filled their hearts with gloom

# For that bullet sealed the doom for Slaughter Trail

# In the sky the morning sun's out as each able soldier runs out

# And the sergeant passes guns out to each man

# Since the cavalry's kind of short now

# The civilians lend support now

# The must help to hold the fort now if they can

# It's a ticklish proposition when you're short of ammunition

# And a bow is in position everywhere

# A soldier fears to mention that moment of suspension

# When he feels the mounting tension in the air

# Now the shadow moves

# And the redskins watch it through

# As we watch the shadow move we hold our breath

# As the Indians watch and wait we all contemplate our fate

# Can the shadow be a harbinger of death?

# With your rifle primed as that shadow moves you pray

# How you wish there was a way to move it back

# Now it seems the shadow's flying comes a moment now for dying

# And you hear Chief Paako cry attack! #

SCREAMING

They're coming in all directions.

Now we'll wait, but we'll show 'em some strength.

I need six volunteers to go outside the fort

-and form a perimeter of defence.

-I'll go, sir.

-Oh, Hardsaddle, not you.

-What did you expect? General Custer?

I'd like to go too, sir.

Just a minute, Lieutenant, you three are volunteering too.

Anybody going out there will be committing suicide.

-That's murder.

-Then you ought to feel right at home.

Give 'em some guns and get 'em out of here.

Good luck, Lieutenant.

Now shoot the first man who tries to make a break.

Hold it. I'll tell you when.

Wait until they're close. We've got to make every bullet count.

GUNSHOTS

Fire!

There's so many Indians, I don't know which one to shoot first.

-Well, shoot the closest one to you.

-OK, here goes.

-Did you get him?

-Yep.

-Where?

It will be a long time before he can ride again.

They're trying to surround us. Send some more men to the rear.

We hardly have men to hold down this section.

Do the best you can.

-Are you all right?

-Yes. Nothing serious.

-Will you take care of the children?

-Yes.

The children are safe, Captain.

I saw what you did, Ms Larkin, that was quick thinking. Thanks.

Better get back to your men, I'll look after the children.

# The redskin made his kill and he cried out loud and shrill

# To his tribesman on the hill and then we saw

# That the Indian waiting there shot a signal in the air

# And when Paako saw the flare he cried withdraw! #

Cease firing.

# They hadn't been defeated yet the Navajos retreated

# And the tale is oft repeated to this day

# When the bandits' lives are ended just as Paako had intended

# All the redskins proud and splendid rode away

# You can only hear the sound of the hoof beats on the ground

# As they redskins rode around the Slaughter Trail. #

Lieutenant Morgan to see you, sir.

-All right, and bring Ms Larkin here, will you?

-Yes, sir.

All the wounded are in the schoolhouse.

It could have been worse.

Lieutenant, you can make any report you like.

I'll send it through.

Well, I changed my mind, Captain.

Perhaps things worked out for the best.

As your responsibilities increase,

you'll have to make quick decisions too.

If you're lucky, a few of them will be good ones.

Yes, sir.

-Where's Ms Larkin?

-She won't come, sir.

What the blue blazes?! Why won't she?

-Well, she's in jail.

-Jail?!

I specifically gave the order to release her.

Well, I know you did, sir,

but she walked right back in there as soon as the fighting was over

-and won't come out.

-What?

How do you figure that woman? Me, I'd rather tangle with the Indians.

Nancy, what are you doing here?

I tried to send her out, but she wouldn't go.

I want to stay with Lorabelle.

Now you may be my commanding officer,

but I'm still in charge of the fort.

You run along with the sergeant.

Daddy, please don't send Lorabelle away.

Nancy, you better do as your daddy says.

I sent for you, Ms Larkin.

This cell isn't my idea, Captain.

I wanted to tell you that you're free to go.

Am I?

What I'm trying to say is that...

Now I'm sorry, I hope you believe that.

Does it matter?

I think it does.

Children are usually right about people.

What about commanding officers?

There's a west bound stage leaving in an hour.

You think you can be ready by then?

I'll be ready.

# Now the stage is set to roll

# And towards the coach they strolled

# There are feelings to control before they part

# Now she kisses Nancy's cheek but the captain cannot speak

# For the strongest men turn weak when ruled by heart

# They had evened up the score

# Then the soldier closed the door

# For the stage was right once more on Slaughter Trail

# Nancy waved to Lorabelle and her heart began to swell

# When the Captain waved farewell and she knew then

# That from now on come what may

# She would live the righteous way

# And she hoped perhaps one day they'll meet again

# You can only hear the sound of the hoof beats on the ground

# And the wheels as they went round the Slaughter Trail

# And so our story ends

# Thanks for listening, my friends

# At last we've reached the end of Slaughter Trail. #