elizabethtown: a musical western

8/7/2019 Elizabethtown: A Musical Western

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ELIZABETHTOWN

___________________________

A MUSICAL WESTERN

Music By: Jason Spraggins

Book & Lyrics By: Andy Brown

(from an idea conceived by Jason Spraggins)

2011


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CAST OF CHARACTERS

FATHER CHARLES AUSTIN - 37 years old.

PHOEBE WOODWARD/CAROLINE SHAW - 27 years old.

SHERIFF COLONEL JOSEPH BAILEY - 62 years old.

DEPUTY SHERIFF JOHNNY MARTIN - 24 years old.

PATRICK O' QUINN - 35 years old.

CAMILLE O' QUINN - 31 years old.

SARAH O' QUINN - 19 years old.

THEODORE "TEDDY" M cCAIN - 40 years old.

MARSHALL RED MILLER/BAXTER SHAW - 34 years old.

TIM E: Summer of 1880 in Elizabethtown, Dakota Territory .

SETTINGS: The Inferno

Caroline's Room at the Dove's Nest

St. Anima Sola Catholic Church

Sheriff's Office

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MUSICAL NUMBERS

ACT ONE

1. UNDER THE SURFACE - PATRICK, COMPANY

2. PAY THE PIPER - TEDDY

3. IN THE ATTIC - CAMILLE, SARAH

4. DESERT OF GOD - CHARLES

5. PANNIN' FOR JUSTICE - RED, JOSEPH, JOHNNY

6. IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE - PHOEBE, PATRICK, CAMILLE, SARAH

7. BLOOD MONEY/SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE - PHOEBE

8. GHOST TOWN HOE-DOWN - COMPANY

9. SIN IN SENATOBIA - RED

10. WHY FEAR THE FORBIDDEN - PHOEBE, CHARLES

11. MARSHALL LAW - COMPANY

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ACT TWO

12. DON'T - CAROLINE, CHARLES

13. SCRATCH MY BACK - RED, CAMILLE

14. A POUND OF FLESH - COMPANY

15. HELL ON EARTH - CHARLES, CAROLINE

16. DEAL WITH THE DEVIL - TEDDY

17. MY LOVE, DEPARTED - PATRICK, CHARLES

18. IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE (REPRISE) - COMPANY

iv.


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ELIZABETHTOWN

ACT ONE

OVERTURE

SCENE ONE

As the Overture comes to an end lights rise on

PATRICK O QUINN, 35 year-old owner of

the local tavern, The Inferno. At rise,

PATRICK is standing behind the bar polishing a

beer mug. PATRICK is an Irish immigrant with

a lovely brogue.

PATRICK

Once upon a time there was a man named Frank Barlow. Now Mr. Barlow was a

wealthy oil tycoon from Texas, and as well all know, the only thing a wealthy man really

wants is more wealth. So when news of the Black Hills Gold Rush reached Mr. Barlow

he bought land in the Dakota Territory just south of Deadwood and Homestake and

founded Elizabethtown in 1878. It was named for his wife Elizabeth who arrived just in

time to witness her husbands most spectacular failure. You see, there was very little

mineable gold to be found in Elizabethtown, but Franks greed was insatiable and only to

be trumped by his pride. Against the urging of all learned mining authorities, Mr. Barlowand his two youngest sons, William and Clayton, attempted to mine deep into the earth

in hopes that they would find a high-yielding vein of gold ore. Sadly they perished in a

cave-in. Crippled with grief, Mrs. Barlow returned to Texas with her eldest son, Frank,

Jr., and left Elizabethtown under the care of her late husbands right-hand man, one Mr.

Theodore McCain.

And that brings us up to the present. Its summer time here in Elizabethtown in the year

1880. And the town that was founded with such lofty hope and expectation has become

little more than a ghost town, a stopover between Deadwood and the rest of the world, a

haven for sinners trapped in Purgatory. Not exactly the happily ever after you read

about in fairy tales, eh?

Oh, I almost forgot to introduce myself. The names Patrick O Quinn. I own this place,

you see. The Inferno and The Doves Nest are the last tavern and hotel in operation in

Elizabethtown. I won them fair and square in a game of chance. Well, I won them.


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PATRICK (CONT)

I cant attest to the fairness of it. (MUSIC CUE) After all, nothing and no one are what

they seem in this town. Take a closer look and youll discover...

UNDER THE SURFACE

PATRICK

LOOKS ARE DECEIVING.

THAT MUCH IS TRUE.

SO KEEP YOUR EYES TRAINED ON THE PRIZE.

ITS NOT WHAT THEY SAY

BUT THAT WHICH THEY DO

THATS MADE THEM THEMSELVES DESPISE.

EVERY BLEST DAY

THE WORLD TAKES A SPIN.

A SUCKER IS BORN WITH EACH TURN.

THE GUILTY COME HERE

TO SIDE-STEP THEIR SINS.

REPRIEVE TIL THE DAY THAT THEY BURN.

UNDER THE SURFACE

VILLAINS AND SAINTSKNOW HOW TO CHARM WITH A SMILE.

UNDER THE SURFACE

ACTIONS WILL TAINT

THE SOUL AND FILL IT WITH BILE.

STAY FOR THE NIGHT.

WELL ROLL OUT THE MAT

WHEN YOU PASS THROUGH.

UNDER THE SURFACE

WERE NOT WHAT WE SEEM.

WE MIGHT BE THE END OF YOU.

Men and women spill out onto the stage as

PATRICK continues.

PATRICK

A sorry looking lot if ever there was one. Well dont just stand there. Give us a song!

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MEN

SOME OF US CAME HERE

TO WIPE CLEAN THE SLATE.

A FRESH START, THE DREAM OF ALL FOOLS.TAKE IT FROM US, IF

YOURE HERE, ITS TOO LATE!

NOBODY PLAYS BY THE RULES.

WOMEN MEN

PEACE IS ILLUSION. EVERY BLEST DAY

YOU WONT FIND IT HERE. THE WORLD TAKES A SPIN

BUT PLEASURE AND DRINK BOTH AND A SUCKER IS BORN WITH

ABOUND. EACH TURN.

IF YOU HAVE THE MONEY, GUILTY COME HERE

WE HAVE THE TIM E. TO SIDE-STEP THEIR SINS.

YOULL LOSE BOTH WHILE WERE REPRIEVE TIL THE DAY THAT

AROUND. THEY BURN.

PATRICK/MEN/WOMEN

UNDER THE SURFACE

VILLAINS AND SAINTSKNOW HOW TO CHARM WITH A SMILE.

UNDER THE SURFACE

ACTIONS WILL TAINT

THE SOUL AND FILL IT WITH BILE.

STAY FOR THE NIGHT.

WELL ROLL OUT THE MAT

WHEN YOU PASS THROUGH.

UNDER THE SURFACE

WERE NOT WHAT WE SEEM.

WE MIGHT BE THE END OF YOU.

Company disperses as PATRICK, SARAH,

JOHNNY, and CAMILLE linger for the scene.

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JOHNNY is repairing a bar stool as SARAH cleans

the tables, stealing affectionate glances at JOHNNY

from time to time.

PATRICKCamille, my pigeon, give me some good news. Any lodgers?

CAMILLE

We have had nary a lodger in a fortnight, lover. A stagecoach is due any day now.

Perhaps well snag a tenant. And a customer.

PATRICK

Aye. The Attic is bound to be getting a mite dusty.

CAMILLEAnd sister Sarah is bound to be getting a mite rusty .

SARAH flinches.

PATRICK

Easy, Pidge. A delicate flower she is. Arent you, sister?

SARAH huffs in defiance.

CAMILLELook at her all high and mighty. Hoping to impress your boyfriend? Well, beau or not,

you are the only girl I have left.

SARAH grunts and returns to her cleaning.

PATRICK

Johnny, my roof still wants patching.

JOHNNY

I know, sir. Sheriff Baileys been workin me to the bone at the jailhouse.

PATRICK

Easy, friend. Youll do it tomorrow. And I been telling you since you started working

for me you neednt call me sir. Patrick will do just fine.

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JOHNNY

Yes, sir. Patrick. Its just that I owe so much to Sheriff Bailey. My daddy served under

him durin the War. Colonel Baileys looked after me. Made me his deputy .

PATRICKYes. Yes. Its a beautiful story. The thing of legends. Id tell it to my children if I had

any. Camille locked my stones in a jar ages ago. Right, Pidge?

CAMILLE

Your words.

PATRICK

Tend the counter, love. Im off to see Teddy about another extension.

CAMILLE

You would have better chances convincing pigs to fly out your anus.

PATRICK starts to exit as TEDDY enters.

THEODORE TEDDY McCAIN is the 40 year-

old custodian of Elizabethtown. TEDDY is dressed

impeccably and lords his status over the remaining

residents and business owners.

PATRICKTeddy, I was just on my way to the bank to see you.

TEDDY

I reckon I just saved you a few steps then. Howdy everyone. Deputy .

ALL

Hello/Howdy.

PATRICK

Can I get you a whiskey? On the house.

TEDDY

Much obliged.

PATRICK

Camille, a whiskey for Teddy.

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CAMILLE crosses behind bar to pour whiskey.

TEDDY

Make it a double.

CAMILLE hands TEDDY drink.

CAMILLE

There you go, Mr. McCain.

TEDDY

Thank you, sugar. Patty , lets get down to business.

PATRICK

Of course. That is what I was coming to see you about. Times are rough, Teddy. We

need another week.

TEDDY

Say no more.

PATRICK

Do you mean it?

TEDDYTarnation. Of course I do. I sometimes forget that you arent from around here. Maybe

in Ireland you can pay your debts in potatoes and promises, but youre in the Land of

Opp ortunity now, Patty. And in America we pay for goods and services with money.

PATRICK

Elizabethtown, shes drying up. Shes done for.

TEDDY

And I am gonna wring every last dime out of her I can before that time comes. Starting

with you. Pay up.

CAMILLE

Mr. McCain, all we are asking is another week. We havent had a decent lodger in a

month of Sundays.

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TEDDY (CONT)

PAY THE PIPER.

OPPORTUNITY COULDNT BE RIPER.

PATRICK

Teddy, I cant give you what I dont have.

TEDDY

I think youll find Im a reasonable man. Maybe an alternate arrangement can be made.

Just this once.

PATRICK

Certainly. Whatever you want.

TEDDY

Good. I want her. Sarah.

SARAH flinches. JOHNNY bristles. PATRICK

and CAMILLE share knowing looks.

TEDDY

I WANNA PURE-BRED,

CORN-FED, NEVER IN HERLIFE WED HUSSY UP ON MY BED.

I WANNA DROP TROW,

PLOW HER BOW, SQUEAL

JUST LIKE A STUCK SOW TIL THE COWS

COME HOME ALL FED.

MY DRINK AINT GONNA POUR ITSELF.

ANOTHER SHOT AND THEN THE CHASE!

ILL TAKE YOU ON THE WILDEST RIDEYOUVE HAD IN YOUR TINY SPACE.

PAY THE PIPER,

IF YOU KNOW WHATS GOOD FOR YOU.

PAY THE PIPER.

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TEDDY (CONT)

ITS THE AMERICAN THING TO DO.

YOU MADE YOUR BEDWHEN YOU HITCHED YOUR

STAR TO THE LAND THAT

BLEEDS BOTH GOLD AND GREEN.

PAY THE PIPER.

PAY THE PIPER.

PAY THE PIPER.

OPPORTUNITY COULDNT BE RIPER.

CAMILLE

Sarah, be a good girl now and show Mr. McCain up to the Attic.

SARAH

Yes, sister.

SARAH, much defeated, starts to lead TEDDY out.

JOHNNY

Now just a minute, Camille. Sarah is already spoken for tonight.

CAMILLE

Is she now?

JOHNNY

Thats right.

TEDDY

And who is the lucky man, Deputy?

JOHNNY

I am. So I guess youll have to clear out, Mr. McCain.

SARAH is dumbfounded, all smiles.

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TEDDY

Patty , I dont know what youre playin at here, but dont think this gets y ou off the

hook.

PATRICKI dont know anything about it, I swear.

JOHNNY

Teddy, should I pay you or Camille?

TEDDY

Watch yourself, Deputy . I dont wanna have to confer with the Sheriff on this matter.

CAMILLE

He didnt mean anything by it, Mr. McCain. (To Johnny) Ill take your money, pet.

TEDDY

Horseshit. Thats what this is. Dont you take a red cent from him, Camille. Were

gonna sett le this like men.

TEDDY closes in on JOHNNY.

JOHNNY

Im not gonna fight you, Teddy.

TEDDY

(laughs)

Tarnation! I aint gonna fight you. Im gonna drink you for that fine piece of tail.

JOHNNY

Im not drinking anythingwith you. Not for Sarah.

TEDDY

Listen to me, boy. Youre gonna drink, or Ill have your hick-ass out on the next stage

back to Illinois. This is my town. You play by my rules. Patty, pour us some whiskey.

Times a wastin.

PATRICK brings the bottle of whiskey and fills

two shot glasses, one for TEDDY and one for

JOHNNY.

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JOHNNY

I dont think this is a good idea.

TEDDY

Dont worry your pretty little head, Deputy. This here will stay between the two of us.Keep us full, Patty.

PATRICK

Youre the boss.

TEDDY

And dont you forget it. Now drink, boy.

JOHNNY

(smiles)Yes, sir. (MUSIC CUE)

A variation on PAY THE PIPER plays as

JOHNNY and TEDDY begin their drinking contest.

PATRICK keeps the shot glasses filled as

JOHNNY and PATRICK match each other, shot

for shot. SARAH watches with great interest. She

wants JOHNNY to win. After about ten or twelve

shots, TEDDYmotions PATRICK to stop.

TEDDY

Goddamn, boy! You tryin to hustle me?

JOHNNY

Had enough, Teddy?

TEDDY

Hell no! (Slurring and staggering from the bar) Ill tell you when Ive had enough. I can

keep goin til the sun comes up!

TEDDY staggers between CAMILLE and SARAH

and makes his way back to JOHNNY.

JOHNNY

You know what I think?

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TEDDY

No. (Icy) What do you think, boy?

JOHNNY

I think you should take my money and be on your way.

TEDDY

Patty ! Pour us another!

PATRICK refills their shot glasses. It is a miracle

that TEDDY is still standing.

TEDDY

Im gonna learn you some respect.

TEDDY hold out his shot glass, aims for his mouth,

misses, and the whiskey goes over his shoulder.

TEDDY passes out face first onto the floor.

PATRICK hurries to his side.

PATRICK

I hate it when he calls me Patty. Hes out, Pidge.

CAMILLE

Drag him into the parlor. Let him sleep it off.

PATRICK

I dont fancy having to deal with him when he wakes.

CAMILLE

Nonsense. Hes nothingmore than a lapdog.

PATRICK

Youre wrongthere, Pidge. The man is a viper. And we best step lively so as not to get

bit. Now where in heavens name did you ever learn to drink like that, Johnny?

JOHNNY

My daddy was making moonshine as long as I could remember. Me and my friends used

to steal swigs from the jug.

PATRICK

I reckon you taught Teddy a lesson he wont soon forget.

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JOHNNY

Hell be too embarrassed not to. I think Im gonna call it a day. Sheriff Bailey is taking

me out to Lakota Territory tomorrow after church. Heres the money, Camille. You can

give it to Teddy when he comes to.

CAMILLE

Not so fast, pet. Where do you think youre going?

JOHNNY

Out to the ranch. Its a two mile walk, and the whiskey isnt gonna help me any.

CAMILLE

Would you get a load of that one, lover? He pays for an evening of romance but wont

put his willy where his mouth is.

PATRICK

Aye. Seems like an awful waste of a mans wages.

CAMILLE

Sarah. Come over here.

JOHNNY

Heck, Camille, that aint necessary.

CAMILLE

But it is. Dont you think Sarah is a pretty thing to behold?

JOHNNY

Sure I do. But I didnt pay up to take advantage of her. I just couldnt see my way to

lettin Teddy get his hands all over her. Sarahs my friend.

PATRICK

I think Im going to cry.

CAMILLE

Hes a romantic, that one. Lucky you have a friend like Johnny around, arent you,

sister?

SARAH

Yes. I am.

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SARAH finds it difficult to maintain eye contact

with JOHNNY.

JOHNNY

Theres no need to be embarrassed, Sarah. As long as Im here, you can count on me tolook out for you.

SARAH

I can take care of myself.

CAMILLE

Can you now? Id like to see that. Its settled then. Dont make a fuss, Johnny. Sister

Sarahs taking you up to the Attic and giving you a night youll never forget. Patrick, my

love, take Teddy out of here. Hes ruining the mood.

PATRICK exits with TEDDY in tow.

JOHNNY

Naw, I should go.

CAMILLE

Nonsense. (MUSIC CUE) You dont mind if Johnny stays the night, do you, Sarah?

SARAHI supp ose not. (To Johnny) If you want to.

JOHNNY

Sarah...

CAMILLE

Then we are all in agreement. He stays!

IN THE ATTIC

CAMILLE

EVRY MAN NOW AND THEN COMES HERE WITH NEEDS

THAT SHOULD BE GRATIFIED.

ITS ONLY NATRAL. THEYRE NOT DIRTY DEEDS.

YOU SHOULD BE SATISFIED.

SHELL BE YOUR HARBOR, A MEASURE OF PEACE

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CAMILLE (CONT)

FOR THE NIGHT IF YOU WILL STAY.

TAKE HER, DEVOUR HER, YOU RAVAGING BEAST.

THEN YOU WILL BE ON YOUR WAY.

IN THE ATTIC

YOU ARE A KING.

IN THE ATTIC YOULL FIND

THAT THERE IS NARY A STRING.

UP THE STAIRWAY,

THROUGH THE COBWEBS,

AND YOUR PASSIONS WILL TAKE WING!

YOU PAID THE BOATMAN.

WHY NOT TAKE THE RIDE?

UNLOCK HER CHASSIS

AND SEE WHATS INSIDE!

IN THE ATTIC

PLEASURES ARE WAITING FOR YOU.

IN THE ATTIC YOU ARE A KING

WHO CAN SECRETLY DO ALL YOU ARE WANTING TODO.

CAMILLE nudges SARAH. PATRICK returns.

SARAH

Dont you like me, Johnny?

JOHNNY

Its not that, Sarah. Its just that...aw, hell.

PATRICK

(to CAMILLE)

Theres a girl. I think hes coming around.

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CAMILLE

Works every time, lover. And now a litt le seduction.

LET YOUR EYES LINGER ON HER M ILKY FLESH.

SHE HUNGERS FOR YOUR TOUCH.DONT KEEP HER WAITING. SHES CAUGHT IN

LOVES MESH.

THE PRICE WAS NOT THAT MUCH.

SHE WILL SUBMIT TO YOUR EVERY WHIM,

ON HER BACK OR BENDED KNEE!

TIME IS A WASTING. WE WOULDNT WANT THAT!

STILL CONFUSED? TAKE IT FROM ME...

IN THE ATTIC

YOU ARE A KING.

IN THE ATTIC YOULL FIND

THAT THERE IS NARY A STRING.

UP THE STAIRWAY,

THROUGH THE COBWEBS,

AND YOUR PASSIONS WILL TAKE WING?

YOU PAID THE BOATMAN.

WHY NOT TAKE THE RIDE?UNLOCK HER CHASSIS

AND SEE WHATS INSIDE!

IN THE ATTIC



WHO CAN SECRETLY DO ALL YOU ARE WANTING TO DO.

SARAH

Johnny?

JOHNNY

Sarah, I...

SARAH

Dont.

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SARAH

REACH FOR MY HAND. I WONT LET YOU FALL.

USE ME. ABUSE ME AGAINST THE WALL.

ILL BE A LADY, ALL SWEET AND DEMURE.OR ILL BE A VIXEN IF YOU WOULD PREFER.

SARAH kisses JOHNNY. As the music swells,

they continue kissing to the amusement of

PATRICK and CAMILLE.

SARAH

IN THE ATTIC



WHO CAN SECRETLY DO ALL YOU ARE WANTING TO

DO.

SARAH leads JOHNNY away.

PATRICK

Now then. Thats settled. But we would have been wiser to let Teddy have her for the

night. The money Johnny gave isnt near enough.

CAMILLE

You said it yourself. Teddy is a viper. Rest assured the opportunity will present itself

again.

PATRICK

We best be getting ready for the regulars. Teddy isnt going anywhere. We can worry

about him tomorrow.

PATRICK goes behind the bar and CAMILLEstarts to tidy as PHOEBE WOODWARD enters.

PHOEBE, a 27 year-old woman, wears a beautiful

dress that is tasteful but ostentatious for

Elizabethtown. PHOEBE is fair and beautiful but

not to be trifled with and has a distinct drawl.

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CAMILLE

God save the Queen...what do we have here?

PHOEBE

Pardon me?

CAMILLE

Sorry, love. We dont often have the pleasure of such finery. Your dress. Its lovely.

PHOEBE

Thank you. I was told I might be able to find lodgings here.

CAMILLE

That you can.

PHOEBE

Good. It has been a tiresome day. All I want to do is crawl into bed.

CAMILLE

Will your husband be bringing in your luggage?

PHOEBE

I will. My husband is dead.

CAMILLE

Begging your forgiveness, madam. I just saw your ring and...

PHOEBE

No apologies are necessary. I havent seen fit to take it off yet. Seemed wise to leave it

on while I was traveling.

CAMILLE

Yes. Of course, madam. Ill go ahead and show you to your room. You can fill out the

registry in the morning after youve rested.

PHOEBE

If its not a problem, I would like to pay up through the end of the month. (PATRICK

almost drops a bottle of whiskey, hearing this.) Just until I can find something more

permanent.

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CAMILLE

That wont be a problem at all. Now, if you will follow me, Ill show you the way.

PATRICK

Good night, madam.

PHOEBE

Good night. And no need for pleasantries. You and the missus can call me Phoebe.

PATRICK

Whatever you prefer.

CAMILLE and PHOEBE exit and PATRICK pours

himself a shot of whiskey to celebrate and crosses

himself as the lights dim. Transition music plays asthe scene shift.

BLACKOUT.

SCENE TWO

It is the following morning, Sunday at St. Anima

Sola Catholic Church. A very small number of

people fill the pews as FATHER CHARLESAUSTIN brings the service to an end.

CHARLES is 37 years old, a solid man of inner

and physical strength, though he has as yet used

litt le of the latter in his dealings with his parish.

CHARLES stands behind a modest pulpit as the

scene begins. A southerner by origin,

CHARLES has a present drawl.

CHARLES

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Amen. Go now in

peace, my friends.

Members of the congregation disperse and

CHARLES shakes hands as they pass his pulpit on

their way out.

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Two people linger behind, TEDDY and the towns

sheriff, COLONEL JOSEPH BAILEY. JOSEPH is

a 62 year-old man, and a celebrated veteran of the

Civil War. As the last of the congregation filters

out, the two men approach CHARLES. TEDDY

has looked better.

TEDDY

That was a mighty fine homily, Charles.

CHARLES

How would you know, Teddy? You were sawing logs for three quarters of it. Sheriff.

JOSEPH

Father. You got a moment?

CHARLES

I reckon so. I was just going to make my way over to the Inferno for Sunday supp er and

a bourbon. Whats on your mind?

TEDDY

Tarnation, you know damn well whats on the Sheriffs mind. Youve been out to Lakota

Territory again.

CHARLESI dont see how thats any of your business, Teddy.

JOSEPH

Hes the town custodian, Father. And just this once, hes right. You have no business

rubbin elbows with the Lakota. Theyre savages.

CHARLES

I appreciate your concern, but I answer to a higher authority. And the Lakota are not

savages. They want peace.

TEDDY

They want their land back.

CHARLES

Frank Barlow took it from them.

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JOSEPH

I have one of their people in my lock-up, Father. He was drunk, and he caused a ruckus

at the Inferno. He couldve killed someone.

CHARLESBut he didnt. Way I hear it, he was provoked.

JOSEPH

Charles. I just need to know when I take my deputy and the prisoner out to Lakota

Territory that we arent in for a scrape.

CHARLES

You have my word. We have an opportunity here. Teddy, why shouldnt we invite the

Lakota to live among us? We could help each other.

TEDDY

Frank Barlow had a dream for this town. And I will sooner see Elizabethtown razed to

the ground before I let a bunch of heathens set up their wigwams.

CHARLES

I have been working on building relations with them for two years now. I am not about

to watch a self-righteous figurehead destroy that.

TEDDY

Watch your tone, Charles. You may be a man of the cloth, but I aint afraid to take you

out and...

JOSEPH

Teddy! This isnt gettin us anywhere. Charles, I know you want peace. The whole

damn nation wants peace. But it takes time.

CHARLES

No! We are out of time. (MUSIC CUE) Joseph, I know you care about the people,

about the community . Teddy doesnt. Hes got his hand in the honey pot so when itgoes belly-up, hell be living high on the hogback in Texas as the Barlow lap dog.

THE DESERT OF GOD

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CHARLES

BLESSD ARE THE POOR IN SPIRIT,

FOR YOU CANNOT BLEED THEM DRY.

AND BLESSD ARE THEY WHO M OURN.YOUR GREED TWISTS THEIR LIVES AWRY.

BLESS THOSE WHO HUNGER FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

FROM GODS GRACE YOUD HAVE THEM STRAY.

AND BLESSD ARE THE MEEK AND KIND AT HEART,

PUPPETS THAT YOU GLIBLY PLAY.

IN THE DESERT OF GOD

NO ONES SAFE FROM THE STING

OF THE SCORPION OUT FOR THE KILL.


THERES NO REFUGE IN SIGHT,

JUST A HAVEN FOR VICE, DREAD, AND SWILL.

I TRY TO GIVE THEM A GLIMMER OF HOPE,

AND YOU SWINDLE THEM ALL TWO BY TWO.


WE ALL CHASE THE MIRAGE

THAT I HELPED BUILD WITH YOU.

TEDDY

I dont have to take this from you! I think you should have a little respect for the man

who keeps a roof over your head.

CHARLES

I thank God for all my blessings, Teddy. Not you. And I will no longer be a mouthpiece

for the Barlows.

TEDDYIf you are so damned hell-bent on defendin your friends, why dont you join their tribe?

God knows I could find a replacement before your pulpit started collectin dust.

CHARLES

I took a vow to look out for the spiritual welfare of the people in this parish. I wont

leave them. Not while youre around.

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TEDDY

Im not gonna warn you again!

JOSEPH

Teddy. Charles. Keep a civil tongue.

TEDDY

Listen close, Father. The two of us is gonna have a reckonin and soon. These walls

wont protect you from that.

TEDDY exits.

JOSEPH

I have to go. Ill keep an eye on Teddy. You can be sure of that.

CHARLES

Thank you, Sheriff. But I can handle men like Teddy. Ive done it before.

JOSEPH exits. CHARLES rails on.

CHARLES

BLESS THOSE WHO OFFER MERCY.

I REGRET WHEN I DID NOT.AND BLESS THOSE WHO LIVE IN PEACE.

I FELT HIS BLOOD SLICK AND HOT.

BLESSD ARE THE ONES WHO FOLLOW YOUR

TEACHINGS,

SERVING TO BOTH FOE AND FRIEND.

AND BLESSD ARE THE ONES WHO SUFFER FOR

YOUR SAKE.

THEY WILL KNOW LIFE WITHOUT END.

IN THE DESERT OF GODNO ONES SAFE FROM THE STING





23.


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CHARLES (CONT)

I TRY TO GIVE THEM A GLIMMER OF HOPE,

AND YOU SWINDLE THEM ALL TWO BY TWO.

IN THE DESERT OF GODWE ALL CHASE THE MIRAGE


I THOUGHT I COULD ESCAPE IT.

MY TIME IN PURGATORY.

I THOUGHT BY COMING OUT HERE

MY PAST I COULD DESTROY.

SCRAPE OUT A MEEK EXISTENCE,

INSTEAD IM SLIDING BACKWARDS,

AND SINKING IN QUICKSAND!


NO ONES SAFE FROM THE STING





IN THE DESERT OF GODWE ALL CHASE THE MIRAGE


As CHARLES finishes the song, he kneels at the

altar to pray and is unaware when PHOEBE enters

the church. Her first line breaks him from his

prayers.

PHOEBE

Father Austin?

CHARLES

Yes?

CHARLES is struck by PHOEBES beauty. Rises

to meet her.

24.


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PHOEBE

Father, my name is Phoebe Woodward. I arrived late last night on the stagecoach. I

wanted to come by and introduce myself and apologize for missing services this morning.

CHARLESI had no idea we had any new arrivals. Patrick and Camille usually give me fair warning.

PHOEBE

They werent expecting me.

CHARLES

Oh? What brings you out to these parts?

PHOEBE

I was recently widowed and well...

CHARLES

My condolences, M rs. Woodward.

PHOEBE

Phoebe. I insist.

CHARLES

Very well. Welcome to Elizabethtown. I look forward to having you in the parish.

PHOEBE

Thank you, Father. But that is not the only reason I came here. I understand you are

without a teacher.

CHARLES

Yes, I am. Sister Mary Francis passed on just last month, and Ive been making do the

best I can. But I am no teacher.

PHOEBEThen this is your lucky day. Back in Mississipp i I taught a mess of students. All ages.

CHARLES

Well, I would be happ y to have the help. Come back by tomorrow morning and meet the

children. Well see how you do.

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PHOEBE

Thank you. I should be on my way.

CHARLES

Where are you staying?

PHOEBE

At the Doves Nest. Just until I can find something more permanent.

CHARLES

I was just about to make my way to the Inferno for Sunday supper. Let me escort you

back.

PHOEBE

Its not necessary, but I welcome the company, Father.

CHARLES

Its settled then. After you, Phoebe.

Lights fade and transition music plays as the

jailhouse is brought into position. Eight days have

passed since the previous scene. It is Monday

afternoon, and JOSEPH is hanging a new map of the

Dakota Territory on the wall as JOHNNY enters.

JOSEPH

Afternoon, Johnny. Nice of you to show up.

JOHNNY

Im awful sorry, Colonel. Patrick had me doin more patch work on the Doves Nest and

Inferno. Lost track of time.

JOSEPH

I understand. A mans got to make his way in the world. Just dont let it happ en again.

JOHNNY

Yes, sir.

JOSEPH

And stop callin me Colonel. I havent been military since the war.

26.


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JOHNNY

Ill do my best. Its hard, though. The way you looked after me and my mama. Youre a

genuine war hero.

JOSEPHIm not a war hero! Your daddy was a good man. Good soldier. I owed it to him, thats

all.

JOHNNY

I dont mean to get y ou riled up, sir.

JOSEPH

It isnt you, boy. Ive just got an itch that needs scratchin.

JOHNNYLots of folks is testy since Camilles girls up and left on her.

JOSEPH

Its not that kinda itch. Its just that we owe the people who live here something. Peace.

Order. The opportunity to have the kinda life they never could back East. No. Ive been

thinkin a lot about our visit to the Lakota last week.

JOHNNY

They seemed awful hospitable, given the circumstances.

JOSEPH

I know it. Im thinkin maybe Father Austin was onto somethin. M aybe it is time to...

MARSHALL RED MILLER enters. He is decked

out in a black longcoat, vest, dingy pants, a sturdy

button-down shirt, boots, and dark wide-brimmed

hat. RED is around 34 years old, has a handlebar

moustache, needs a shave, and has a swagger of self-

importance. RED addresses JOSEPH.

RED

You the Sheriff round these parts?

JOSEPH

I am. The names Bailey. Sheriff Joseph Bailey.

27.


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JOHNNY

He was a Union Colonel in the War.

JOSEPH

Thatll do, Johnny.

RED

Pleased to meet you, Colonel. No hard feelins. My people fought for the South.

JOSEPH

Water under the bridge. Im just a Sheriff now. This heres my deputy , Johnny Martin.

RED

Pleasure.

JOSEPH

Now. Who the hell are you.

RED

(laughs)

I like you, Sheriff. You got gumption. (Shows badge) Im United States Marshall Red

Miller. But most folks what get to know me just call me Red.

JOSEPHWhat brings y ou to Elizabethtown? On your way to Deadwood? Thats mostly the

kinda traffic we get these days.

RED

I wish that was the case. Im huntin myself a fugitive.

JOSEPH

Fugitive, eh? We havent gotten anything on the wire about any fugitives. I like to stay

informed, keep things orderly in my town. Your fugitive. Whats his name.

RED

It aint no man. Im lookin for a woman.

JOHNNY

What trouble could a woman get herself into thatd stir up the dander on a U.S. Marshall?

28.


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RED

You ever hear of the Mississippi Black Widow?

JOHNNY

No, sir.

RED

Youre lucky. I been chasin her goin on six months now.

JOSEPH

Well, I reckon well do what we can to help you, Marshall. We dont want any t rouble

here.

RED

Im afraid trouble may already be here. (MUSIC CUE) The woman Im lookin for aint

like you or me. She dont believe in the law, in the right of a man to make his own

fortune. Shes a predator. And shell take down anyone what gets in her way to get

what she wants. Weve got a tough job ahead of us. But if you follow my lead, I think

youll see itll all work out in the end.

PANNIN FOR JUSTICE

RED

ACROSS THE PLAINS OF KANSAS

FROM NORTH PLATTE TO CHIMNEY ROCK

I FORGED AHEAD UNDAUNTED

WITH JUST A RIFLE AND TOMAHAWK.

THE COYOTES YIPPED AT MY HEELS.

I COULD NOT STOP TO FIGHT.

I TRACKED HER TO DAKOTA.

THE WIDOW RIDES BEST AT NIGHT.

AND NOW IM PANNIN FOR JUSTICE,

DIGGIN FOR THE INNOCENT,

SIFTIN THROUGH THE RUBBISH FOR A MURDEROUS SHREW!

IM PANNIN FOR JUSTICE,

MININ FOR A M ALCONTENT,

DUSTIN OFF THE SHACKLES SHE WILL WEAR WHEN IM THROUGH.

29.


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RED (CONT)

SHELL WEAVE HER WEB IF GIVEN HALF THE

CHANCE.

SHE KNOWS MANS WEAKNESS LIVES WITHIN HISPANTS.

DONT FIND YOURSELF IN HER HYPNOTIC TRANCE...

PANNIN FOR JUSTICE!

JOHNNY

And you think shes here?

RED

I dont know, Deputy. But it looks like a place she would stop. Small. Out of the way.

There any money in this town?

JOSEPH

We got a bank, if thats what youre askin.

RED

She aint no bank robber. The Mississippi Black Widow attracts a certain type of

gentleman. The kind what shows his affection with his pocketbook.

JOSEPH

Nothin illegal about that.

RED

You aint heard the rest.

SHE WED A MAN IN FAULKNER,

ANOTHER ONE IN TUPELO.

A THIRD SHE TOOK IN STARKVILLE

THEN CUT ACROSS TO MERIGOLD.

I FOUND THE GRAVES OF EACH MAN.

SHE DROPPED EM IN AND TOOK THEIR CASH.

THE WIDOWS HANDS ARE DRENCHED IN BLOOD

AND CLINGIN TO HER STASH.

30.


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RED (CONT)

AND SO IM PANNIN FOR JUSTICE,

DIGGIN FOR THE INNOCENT,

SIFTIN THROUGH THE RUBBISH FOR AMURDEROUS SHREW!

IM PANNIN FOR JUSTICE,

MININ FOR A M ALCONTENT,

DUSTIN OFF THE SHACKLES SHE WILL WEAR WHEN

IM THROUGH.

SHELL WEAVE HER WEB IF GIVEN HALF THE

CHANCE.

SHE KNOWS MANS WEAKNESS LIVES WITHIN HIS

PANTS.

DONT FIND YOURSELF IN HER HYPNOTIC TRANCE...

PANNIN FOR JUSTICE.

RED

I have to find her. Shes killed before. Shell kill again. You can count on it.

JOSEPH

If this woman is in Elizabethtown, well find her. Right, Johnny?

JOHNNY

Yes, sir.

I CAME HERE TO REPAY MY FATHERS DEBT!

JOSEPH

WE WILL BAND AGAINST THIS COMMON THREAT!

RED

SHE WILL CURSE THE DAY SHE TRIED TO RUN FROM ME!

ALL

THE ROAD FOR HER ENDS HERE, WE GUARANTEE!

PANNIN FOR JUSTICE!

31.


36/134

Lights fade and transition music plays as the

Inferno is brought in. SARAH is cleaning tables as

the scene begins. PHOEBE is seated wearing an

attractive but less ostentatious dress. PATRICK is

behind the bar and CAMILLE is on a stool near him

having a drink.

SARAH

The children arent proving too difficult for you, are they, M iss Phoebe?

PHOEBE

Not at all. I know how to handle a child. I was married to one.

SARAH

Do you miss him?

PHOEBE

Oh. I supp ose I do now. It gets mighty lonesome havin no one to depend on but

yourself.

PATRICK

Hear that, Pidge? Youd be lost without me.

CAMILLEGive me the chance to find out. Its all I ask.

PHOEBE

Camille! (Laughs) I reckon at the end of the day, all you remember are the good times.

Time has a way of washin away the unpleasant memories. At least thats what Im

countin on.

CAMILLE

I take it then you had a fair enough number of the unpleasant memories then.

PHOEBE

No more than anyone else.

SARAH

I would miss the nights.

32.


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CAMILLE

Hear that, lover? (Mocks) I would miss the nights. It looks as if Sister Sarah has gone

and given her heart away.

SARAHI have not!

PATRICK

Careful now. A girl who wears her heart on her sleeve is likely to lose it.

PHOEBE

Sarah, you didnt tell me you were sweet on someone. Whats his name?

CAMILLE

His name is Johnny Martin. Hes the Sheriffs Deputy, and he works as a handyman forus. Quite the gallant knight, he is. He rescued Sarah from a night of debauchery with a

nasty knave and tried to flee from his reward. We practically had to force her on him.

PHOEBE

Camille, be nice. Tell me about him, Sarah.

SARAH

Oh, Miss Phoebe, he is so handsome. And strong. When he took me, I mean. Listen to

me. I must sound like a fool. The words arent coming out right.

PHOEBE

It sounds just right to me.

SARAH

Was Mr. Woodward like that? Kind?

PHOEBE

Kind isnt exactly he word I would use to describe Hubert.

SARAHOh.

PHOEBE

It doesnt matter. I have always felt that a woman should be able to take care of herself.

33.


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CAMILLE

Truer words were never spoke. Listen to Phoebe, Sarah. You have to be your own

woman. I wouldnt say this to your brother, but I am more than capable of tendingmy

own affairs.

PATRICK

Why do I bother sticking around then?

CAMILLE

I am too much of a lady to mention the reasons in front of our lodger.

PHOEBE

Dont listen to them, Sarah. I think its sweet. And you never know. Johnny may feel

the same way and just doesnt know how to show it.

SARAH

I wish that were true. Do you think you will ever marry again?

PHOEBE

Oh, Sarah, honey. (MUSIC CUE) The beauty of starting over is that your life is a blank

slate. All you have are choices, choices that can lead you to a grand adventure. Look at

you and Camille and Patrick. You made your way over here all the way from Ireland.

Anything is possible. Will I marry again? Who knows? All I know for sure is this...

IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE

PHOEBE

IF YOU COWER IN THE SHADOWS

YOU WILL NEVER LEAVE THE DARK.

IF YOU PUSH YOUR DREAMS ASIDE

THEN YOU WASTE CREATIONS SPARK.

ITS NOT EASY. YOU WILL STUMBLE.BUT YOULL LEARN EACH TIME YOU FAIL.

THERE ARE THINGS ON EARTH WORTH FIGHTING FOR.

DO NOT STOP TIL YOU PREVAIL!

IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE,

IN SEARCH OF A JOY YOU CANT MISS.

34.


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PHOEBE (CONT)

DONT SETTLE FOR ANYTHING SHORT

OF THE GOAL THAT WILL LEAD TO BLISS.

LOOK PAST THE HORIZON.LOOK PAST THE DEFEATS THAT YOUVE KNOWN,

AND MARCH TWARDS THE LIGHT AT THE END

OF THE PATH. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

WHEN PEOPLE DEMEAN YOU,

JUST KEEP YOUR HEAD HIGH.

SHAKE OFF ALL FOREBODING

AND REACH TO THE SKY!

IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE.

CAMILLE

Lover, I think we need to cut that one off. Shes had too much of the happ y juice.

PHOEBE

Isnt there anythingyou take seriously?

PATRICK

Yes. Money.

AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BARREL

THE ONLY PLACE TO GO IS UP.

DOESNT MATTER WHO YOURE SERVING,

LONG AS YOU CONTROL THE CUP.

CAMILLE

LEAVE THE BODIES IN THE ALLEY.

LET THE VULTURES PICK THEM DRY.

WHEN YOU SELL YOUR SOUL, THERES NOTHING LEFT.BETTER BE THE LAST TO DIE.

35.


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PATRICK/CAMILLE


IN SEARCH OF A FOOL WE CAN CON,

AS LONG AS THEIR COFFERS ARE BRIMM INGWITH GOLD, WE WILL GET ALONG.

YOU ONLY GET ONE CHANCE.

YOU ONLY CAN REAP WHAT YOU SEW.

BUT WHO SAYS YOU CANT REAP THE FRUITS

OF THE PEOPLE YOU DO NOT KNOW?

KEEP THEM IN A STUPOR.

FULFILL THEIR DESIRES.

THEN CALL IN THE SHERIFF

TO PUT OUT THE FIRES!


SARAH

I dont believe it.

CAMILLE

Whats that?

SARAH

I dont believe the world is all bad. It cant be. Not when there are honest and decent

people like Johnny in it.

I WONT BE DISHEARTENED

WHEN FORTUNE IS GRIM.

ILL CLING TO MY FUTURE,

A FUTURE WITH HIM!

SARAH/PHOEBE PATRICK/CAMILLE

IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE, WHAT A JOKE!


DONT SETTLE FOR ANYTHING SHORT THESE TWO ARE A HOOT,

OF THE GOAL THAT WILL LEAD TO BLISS. WE SHOULD KEEP THEM

AROUND. HOLY HELL, IM

PISSED!

LOOK PAST THE HORIZON. NOTHINGS THERE!

36.


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SARAH/PHOEBE PATRICK/CAMILLE

LOOK PAST THE DEFEATS THAT YOUVE

KNOWN,

AND MARCH TWARDS THE LIGHT AT THE BUT SAY WHAT YOU WILL

END OF THE PATH. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. SHE HAS PAID ALL OUR

BILLS. SHES OUR BLARNEY

STONE!

ALL





WELL MAKE OUR OWN FORTUNE.

WELL MAKE IT OR DIE!

IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE!

When the song ends, CHARLES enters the Inferno.

SARAH goes back to work, and CAMILLE brings a

glass of gin to PHOEBE and exits.

PATRICKGood evening, Father. The usual?

CHARLES

Thank you, Patrick.

PATRICK pours CHARLES a glass of bourbon.

CHARLES crosses to PHOEBE.

PHOEBE

I spent eight hours with a bunch of ornery children. Whats your excuse?

CHARLES

It makes me a little less homesick. Mind if I join you?

PHOEBE

Please do. But I may have to give confession. I thought about murderin the Thompson

twins today.

37.


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CHARLES

Already? I reckon that makes you one of us.

CHARLES takes a long pull on his bourbon.

PHOEBE

Patrick, you heard Charles. I have been accepted into the fold. Get our spiritual leader

another bourbon.

PATRICK

Aye.

CHARLES

Thank you, but no thanks. One is enough for me.

PHOEBE

I wont take no for an answer. Patrick?

PATRICK brings CHARLES another glass of

bourbon. PHOEBE tries to pay him, but

CHARLES covers her hand and gives PATRICK

money.

CHARLESThank you, Patrick.

PHOEBE withdraws her hand and take a sip of her

gin. SARAH watches the two as she cleans.

PHOEBE

So youre a Kentucky boy?

CHARLES

No. Tennessee. Nashville. But my daddy was a big bourbon drinker. You?

PHOEBE

Savannah, Georgia. My daddy was a fisherman. Thats how I met Baxter.

CHARLES

Your husband.

38.


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PHOEBE

Yes. He worked the docks with my daddy.

SARAH

I thought you said your husbands name was Hubert.

PHOEBE

It was. Hubert Baxter Woodward. Most of his friends called him Baxter, but I liked the

sound of Hubert.

PATRICK

You best be minding your own business, Sarah. Go and tidy the Att ic.

PHOEBE

Shes no trouble, Patrick.

PATRICK

Still and all, she has work to do. Go to it.

SARAH

Yes, brother.

SARAH exits.

PHOEBE

What made you leave Nashville?

CHARLES

A priest is expected to go where the Lord leads him. This is where I was led. This is

where I was needed.

PHOEBE

It must be nice. To have such clarity.

CHARLES

Yes. Clarity. (Downs bourbon) Well, if youll excuse me, I should call it a day.

PHOEBE

You just got here. Its early.

39.


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CHARLES

I have a long day ahead of me. So do you.

PHOEBE

I suddenly feel as if Im being scolded. Are you scolding me, Charles?

CHARLES

Do you need to be scolded?

PHOEBE

If I do, I will be sure to let you know.

CHARLES

Good night, Phoebe. Patrick.

PATRICK

Father.

PHOEBE squirms a bit as CHARLES exits.

PHOEBE finishes her gin and take the glass to

PATRICK at the bar.

PHOEBE

It was a simple question.

PATRICK

Havent you noticed, love? Nobody around here talks about their lives before

Elizabethtown.

PHOEBE

Oh.

PATRICK

One more?

PHOEBE

No, thank you. Ill turn in. Good night, Patrick.

PATRICK

Good night, Phoebe.

40.


45/134

PHOEBE exits. PATRICK cleans her glass and

whistles a tune as transition music begins to play.

BLACKOUT.

SCENE THREE

The next day at St. Anima Sola Catholic Church.

CHARLES is practicing his homily as JOSEPH

enters with RED.

CHARLES

That is why in times of weakness it is to the Lord we should turn. Come unto me, all

ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. This passage from Matthew11:28 tells us...

JOSEPH

Father, sorry to interrupt.

CHARLES

Not at all, Sheriff. I was just going over my homily for Sunday. What can I do for you?

JOSEPH

Id like to introduce you to U.S. Marshall Red Miller. Red, this is our priest, FatherCharles Austin.

CHARLES and RED shake hands.

RED

Father.

CHARLES

Marshall.

JOSEPH

Red just rolled into town yesterday. Hes bunkingwith Johnny and me out at my ranch.

I thought it would be a good idea if he spoke with you.

CHARLES

What brings a U.S. Marshall out to these parts?

41.


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RED

It aint a social call, you can be sure of that.

CHARLES

I figured that was the case. Can I get you something to drink? Ive got Communion winein the back.

RED

No, thank you, Father. I reckon you should save it for those what need it.

CHARLES

So youre not a religious man.

RED

You could say that.

CHARLES

Then I reckon Sheriff Bailey didnt bringyou over here for spiritual guidance.

RED

Im lookin for a fugitive.

CHARLES

We dont get many fugitives in Elizabethtown. Unless you count Teddy. Im sure hes

broken a few laws in his day.

JOSEPH

Charles, I dont think now is the time for levity.

RED

Sheriff, why dont you mosey on back to the jailhouse? Me and the reverend are doin

fine here.

JOSEPH

So long as you dont need me for anything.

CHARLES

I think the Marshall will see hes in good hands. Get on back, Joseph. Make sure

Johnny hasnt burned the place down.

JOSEPH

Hmm. Wouldnt want that to happen. Again.

42.


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JOSEPH exits.

CHARLES

I believe you were going to tell me about your fugitive.

RED

Right. The womans name is Caroline Shaw. Back East shes known as the Mississipp i

Black Widow.

CHARLES

Black Widow. Sounds romantic. How did she get that name?

RED

They call her Black Widow on account shes poisonous to the men in her life. She has a

nasty habit of leavin dead husbands in her wake.

CHARLES

You say her name is Caroline Shaw.

RED

Yep.

CHARLES

I wish I could help you, Marshall. We dont have anyone in Elizabethtown answering tothe name of Caroline Shaw.

RED

Well, I reckon she wouldnt be travelin under her real name now. Probably got an

assumed name or somethin.

CHARLES

Is that so?

REDYeah. I reckon it is.

CHARLES

What she look like, this Caroline Shaw. You ever meet her?

43.


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RED

Ive only seen her in pictures. Shes a beauty. Dark hair, fair skin, petite, little thing.

Youd think she was a doll if she wasnt so damn deadly.

CHARLESYou know, my daddy was a law man. Back in Tennessee. I probably saw more criminals

before I was ten than most people do in their whole lives.

RED

Your point?

CHARLES

I know a criminal when I see one. And aside from Teddy, this towns clean.

REDI see. Sheriff Bailey tells me a younglady arrived on the stagecoach last week.

CHARLES

Yes. Shes taken over the teachers post . But her name isnt Caroline Shaw. Its Phoebe

Woodward. And shes no criminal.

RED

I reckon Im in a better position to make that determination. Where is she?

CHARLES

She isnt here. School let out for the day.

RED

Tell me where I can find Miss Woodward, and Ill be on my way.

CHARLES

I could do that. Theres just one problem.

RED

Whats that, Preacher man?

CHARLES

I dont trust you.

RED

Come again?

44.


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CHARLES

I said I dont trust y ou. And I consider myself a decent judge of character.

RED

You aint gotta trust me. You just gotta tell me what I need to know. Or do you wannaspend the night at the jailhouse?

CHARLES

I think we both know that isnt going to happen.

RED

You sure about that?

CHARLES

Yeah. Pretty sure. Ive been around long enough to know when someones pissin in the

wind.

RED

Im startin to lose my patience. Dont test me.

CHARLES

You talk awful big, Marshall. But I get the feeling thats all it is. Talk.

REDYou have no idea what Im capable of.

CHARLES

No. I guess I dont, and Im not interested in findin out. I think were finished here.

RED

Im the law, Preacher man. Give me one good reason I dont haul you away in shackles.

CHARLES

Hmm. (Smiles) I can give you more than one. But I tell you what. Theres a hoe-downat the Inferno Friday night. I have no doubt Miss Woodward will be in attendance. Cool

your heels at Sheriff Baileys ranch. Avail yourself to his hospitality. You can question

her on Friday.

RED

Alright. Well play it your way. For now. But if Miss Woodward up and vanishes

afore Friday, Ill be takin it up with you.

45.


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CHARLES

I would expect nothin less.

RED exits. CHARLES waits until RED is away to

show his t rue concern.

CHARLES

Dammit, Phoebe.

Lights fade as PHOEBEs room at the Doves Nest

is brought in. It is late in the evening. There is a

bed, a desk, a table and chair with a gas lamp, and a

door unit. PHOEBE is grading papers as the scene

begins.

PHOEBE

Oh, Billy. What am I gonna do with you? I guess you just dont have a head for figures.

PHOEBE sets aside the paper and starts grading

another when there is a knock at the door.

PHOEBE crosses to answer it. CHARLES stands

in the doorway.

PHOEBECharles! What brings you by here this time of night?

CHARLES

Evening, Phoebe. I came for a bourbon. Thought I might see you downstairs. Camille

told me you went up early.

PHOEBE

Papers to grade.

CHARLESI would offer to help, but Id only make more work for you.

PHOEBE

Where are my manners? Come in.

46.


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CHARLES

Thank you, but I wont be here that long. I just wanted to make sure things are workin

out for you. At the school.

PHOEBEOh, yes. Just fine.

CHARLES

Good. Im glad. The children are quite taken with you.

PHOEBE

Thank you. Its nice to know.

CHARLES

So there isnt anything you need?

PHOEBE

No.

CHARLES

You would tell me, wouldnt you?

PHOEBE

Of course. Is somethin on your mind, Charles?

CHARLES

Sheriff Bailey stopped by the church today.

PHOEBE

I dont believe Ive had the pleasure of his acquaintance.

CHARLES

You should meet him. Hes a good man.

PHOEBEYoull have to introduce us at the hoe-down on Friday.

CHARLES

Then youre still plannin on coming?

47.


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PHOEBE

Well, of course. Unless you see fit to relieve me of my duties as teacher. Then Ill be off

huntin for a new job. Are you sure you dont want to come in?

CHARLESNo. Ill get to it. Phoebe, the Sheriff wasnt alone today. A U.S. Marshall was with

him. A man named Red Miller. Hes hunting a fugitive named Caroline Shaw. He called

her the Mississippi Black Widow.

PHOEBE

I dont see what this has to do with me.

CHARLES

Red heard there was a new teacher in town. Wanted to meet her. I told him hed have to

wait til Friday, and I gave him my word that youd still be here.

PHOEBE

You neednt do me any favors, Charles. Ill be happy to meet this Marshall. Put any

suspicions you might have to rest.

CHARLES

It isnt you I have suspicions about. Its Red. I think hes dangerous.

PHOEBE

And what do you think about me?

PHOEBE moves closer to CHARLES. There is

litt le distance between them.

CHARLES

I havent decided yet. But I know that a man with a badge isnt to be trifled with. Just

be careful.

PHOEBE adjusts the lapels on CHARLESs jacket.

Her hands linger against his chest on his coat lapels.

PHOEBE

Good night, Charles.

CHARLES

Good night, Phoebe.

48.


53/134

CHARLES closes his hands over PHOEBEs and

lets the silence linger between them before her

removes her hands, backs away, and leaves.

PHOEBE closes the door and goes to her bed. She

pulls her suitcase out from underneath the bed andlugs it on top of the mattress.

PHOEBE

Oh, Charles. (MUSIC CUE)

PHOEBE opens the suitcase as music begins to

play. She props the top section of the suitcase

against the headboard of the bed and fidgets with a

false back in the suitcase. As she pulls it away,

paper money of all denominations falls out.

PHOEBE gathers a small pile and holds it against

her chest.

BLOOD MONEY/IN SEARCH OF A NEW LIFE

(REPRISE)

PHOEBE

HOW DO I TELL HIM?HOW DO I TELL HIM?

WHAT I AM FEELING

WHEN I AM REELING

OUT OF SORTS

AND OUT OF OPTIONS.

I AM LOST.

I AM LOST.

HE SEES INSIDE ME.

HE SEES BEYOND ALLTHE WITTY WORDS

ITS SO ABSURD

THAT NOW I

SEEK HIS FAVOR.

AT WHAT COST?

AT WHAT COST?

49.


54/134

PHOEBE (CONT)

I COULD RUN AWAY

BUT I FINALLY HAVE A REASON

TO ATTACK THE DAYAND REJOICE IN ALL SEASONS.

BLOOD MONEY!

I SHOULD TAKE THIS PILE AND BURN IT.

BUT IN TRUTH IT IS NOT MINE TO THROW AWAY.

ITS NOT FUNNY

WHAT I DID TO THOSE WHO DIED

BUT THATS A DEBT THAT I WILL PAY ON

JUDGMENT DAY.

HE WARMS ME

HE NEEDS ME,

THOUGH HE MAY NOT EVEN KNOW

BUT WHEN HE FEELS ME,

I BLEED...

BLOOD MONEY!

YOUVE UNDONE ME!

BLOOD MONEY!

PHOEBE comes to a revelation. She stuffs the

money back into the suitcase and restores the false

panel.

PHOEBE

NOW I AM HUNTED.

NOW I AM HUNTED.

BY A LAWMAN,RAVING MADMAN.

IS IT WHO I

THINK IT IS?

I MUST BE STRONG,

MUST BE STRONG.

HELL STOP AT NOTHING.

50.


55/134

PHOEBE (CONT)

HELL STOP AT NOTHING.

TIL THERES SORROW,

NO TOMORROWAND NO CHANCE TO

BEG FORGIVENESS

FOR MY WRONGS,

FOR MY WRONGS.

THERES NO TURNING BACK

FROM MY PASSION OR MY YEARNING.

BUT IF I REMAIN

WILL MY FORTUNE END UP TURNING?

BLOOD MONEY!

I SHOULD TAKE THIS PILE AND BURN IT.

BUT IN TRUTH IT IS NOT MINE TO THROW AWAY.

ITS NOT FUNNY

WHAT I DID TO THOSE WHO DIED

BUT THATS A DEBT THAT I WILL PAY ON

JUDGMENT DAY.

HE WARMS MEHE NEEDS ME,

THOUGH HE MAY NOT EVEN KNOW

BUT WHEN HE FEELS ME,

I BLEED...

BLOOD MONEY!

YOUVE UNDONE ME!

BLOOD MONEY!

(spoken)

Ill give it to Charles. To the church. All of it.



DONT SETTLE FOR ANYTHING SHORT

OF THE GOAL THAT WILL LEAD TO BLISS.

51.


56/134

PHOEBE (CONT)

LOOK PAST THE HORIZON.

LOOK PAST THE DEFEATS THAT YOUVE KNOWN.

AND MARCH TWARDS THE LIGHT AT THE ENDOF THE PATH. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.






Transition music plays as scene shifts.

BLACKOUT.

SCENE FOUR

Music plays as the lights rise on a party already

in progress. PATRICK, CAMILLE, JOHNNY,

SARAH, PHOEBE and CHARLES are square

dancing.

THE GHOST TOWN HOE DOWN

ALL

WELCOME TO THE GHOST TOWN HOE DOWN.

NO ONES HERE, SO THE WHISKEY IS FREE.

JUST ANOTHER GHOST TOWN HOE DOWN.

TOSS IT BACK TIL YOU CANNOT SEE.

TAKE HOLD YOUR GIRL AND SPIN HER SIDEWAYS

AND PULL HER BACK AGAIN.

IF SHES GOT SPUNK, SHELL TURN THE TABLES,

TAKE THE LEAD, AND STRONG-ARM THE MEN!


STEAL A KISS WHILE THE GETTIN IS GOOD.

52.


57/134

ALL (CONT)

WHEN THE SUN COMES UP IN THIS GHOST TOWN,

SAY A LITTLE PRAYR.

SEE THE FATHER THERE.DO YOUR PENANCE CAUSE YOU PROBABLY

SHOULD.

Dance break. At the end there is a repeat of the

song.

ALL


NO ONES HERE, SO THE WHISKEY IS FREE.

JUST ANOTHER GHOST TOWN HOE DOWN.

TOSS IT BACK TIL YOU CANNOT SEE.

TAKE HOLD YOUR GIRL AND SPIN HER SIDEWAYS

AND PULL HER BACK AGAIN.

IF SHES GOT SPUNK, SHELL TURN THE TABLES,

TAKE THE LEAD, AND STRONG-ARM THE MEN!

WELCOME TO THE GHOST TOWN HOE DOWN.STEAL A KISS WHILE THE GETTIN IS GOOD.

WHEN THE SUN COMES UP IN THIS GHOST TOWN,

SAY A LITTLE PRAYR.

SEE THE FATHER THERE.

DO YOUR PENANCE CAUSE YOU PROBABLY

SHOULD.

PATRICK

Drinks all around!

PATRICK crosses behind the bar. Starts filling

glasses. CAMILLE helps distribute drinks.

JOHNNY and SARAH are seated near each other

with CHARLES and PHOEBE. JOHNNY cant

take his eyes off PHOEBE.

53.


58/134

PHOEBE

Why Sarah, you are an absolute vision. Dont you think so, Johnny?

JOHNNY

(not taking eyes off PHOEBE)Beautiful.

SARAH

Thank you.

CHARLES

Where is the Sheriff? He doesnt miss an opportunity to make a fool of himself on the

dance floor.

JOHNNYHes off with the Marshall and Teddy. I reckon theyll be by.

CHARLES

I reckon they will.

SARAH

Its awfully stuffy in here. Would you like to get some air, Johnny?

JOHNNY

Naw. Im good. Help yourself. Skys full of stars tonight.

SARAH

I never was any good at following the stars.

JOHNNY

Its easy if you know what to look for.

PHOEBE

You should show her then.

JOHNNY

Gosh. I reckon I could. You wanna join us, Miss Phoebe?

PHOEBE

And leave Charles alone with all this bourbon? I couldnt possibly.

54.


59/134

CHARLES

I think I can resist the temptation. (PHOEBE kicks him under the table) Oh, youre

right! I cant handle myself around the drink. The two of you best go on your own.

Phoebe will keep me in line.

SARAH

Come on, Johnny. Itll be fun.

JOHNNY

Well, alright. Well be right back.

PHOEBE

Yall take your time now. A night like this one is too pretty not to be appreciated.

JOHNNY and SARAH exit.

CHARLES

You work fast.

PHOEBE

Somebody has to.

CAMILLE

You arent wrong there. Sarah needs all the help she can get.

PATRICK

Go easy on her, Pidge. Shes givingit her all.

CAMILLE

I daresay I wasnt that timid when I was wooingyou.

PATRICK

Aye. You never had any trouble usingyour mouth, thats for sure.

CAMILLE

You never complained before, lover.

PATRICK brings CHARLES another bourbon.

PHOEBE

Have you always been a priest, Charles?

55.


60/134

CHARLES

No. But I have been a priest long enough that the days I wasnt are a distant memory.

PHOEBE

It must be refreshing not to be subject to the same longings the rest of us mortals are.

CHARLES

Im still human.

PHOEBE

Are you?

CHARLES

Im human enough to know that Sarahs wearing one of your dresses tonight. And if that

doesnt garner Johnnys attention, I dont know what will.

PHOEBE

How do you know its mine?

CHARLES

Because I can smell you all over her.

PHOEBE is caught off guard.

PHOEBE

Speaking of smell, I should run upstairs and freshen up.

CHARLES

Dont be long.

PHOEBE

Patrick, dont let that man have another drink. Hes liable to disgrace himself.

PATRICKYes, maam.

PHOEBE exits.

CAMILLE

Well, as I live and breath, Father Austin was flirting with the lonely widow.

56.


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CHARLES

I dont know what youre talking about, Camille.

PATRICK

Dont kid a kidder, Father. Theres heat in this room, and it isnt coming from the dancefloor.

JOSEPH, RED, and TEDDY enter. CAMILLE

exits.

TEDDY

If this aint the most pitiful sight I ever laid eyes on. I thought you was havin a party

tonight, Patty!

PATRICK

We are, Teddy. Just taking a breather.

TEDDY

And your sister is takin liberties out on the street in plain view. With your deputy,

Sheriff.

JOSEPH

I reckon he isnt hurtin anyone.

TEDDY

Listen, Patty. If your sister is gonna be throwin it around, have her do it in the Attic.

And with payin customers.

JOSEPH

Cool off, Teddy. Have a drink or somethin. Red, what can I get you?

RED

Nothin just yet. I believe the Preacher man and me have some business to take care of.

CHARLES

Evening, Marshall.

RED

I aint ever knowed a preacher what drinks whiskey and keeps company with loose

people.

57.


62/134

CHARLES

And Ive never known a lawman to speak like he has the education of a yokel.

RED

You makin fun of me?

CHARLES

You make it pretty easy, Marshall.

TEDDY

You are speakin to a United States Marshall and a guest in our town, Charles. Watch

your manners.

CHARLES

I reckon you and the Marshall are like two peas in a pod. Your mother doesnt have any

sons unaccounted for, does she?

TEDDY

Thats it! Outside!

RED

Get in line. Where is she, Preacher man? You said shed be here!

PHOEBE enters, spies RED and is visibly affected.She pulls herself together as JOSEPH grabs a glass

and breaks it on the table to kill the ruckus.

JOSEPH

I have had just about enough of this nonsense! Youre all acting like a bunch of boys

measuring peckers in the school yard.

RED

I got business here, Sheriff.

JOSEPH

And youre welcome to conduct it. But dont forget youre still in my town.

RED

Right.

58.


63/134

CHARLES

Marshall, I am a man of my word. I told you Mrs. Woodward would be here. Shes

here.

REDThen I reckon we aint got no more problems tonight. Where is she?

PHOEBE

Im right here.

PHOEBE enters the room and joins the men.

TEDDY

What do we have here? Charles, when I heard you hired a new school teacher, I never

imagined she would be so feminine.

CHARLES

Phoebe, Id like to introduce you to Marshall Red Miller. This here is our Sheriff, Joseph

Bailey. And youve already heard from the town custodian and letch, Teddy McCain.

TEDDY

Youre walkin on thin ice, Charles.

CHARLES

Its the only kind. Gentlemen, I give you Mrs. Phoebe Woodward.

JOSEPH/TEDDY/RED

Maam.

PHOEBE

Pleasure. Now, Marshall, I understand you have some questions for me.

RED

Thats right.

PHOEBE

Well, I am ready whenever you are.

RED

I sure would hate to interrupt the festivities. Perhaps we should head on over to the

Sheriffs.

59.


64/134

PHOEBE

I would be more comfortable if we stayed here.

JOSEPH

By all means. Red, you can ask your questions just as easy here as there.

TEDDY

Of course. Yall grab a seat, and Ill bring over some refreshments. Whatre you drinkin,

sugar?

RED

I appreciate your hospitality , but this is an investigation, not a cotillion.

CAMILLE enters, crosses to JOSEPH.

CAMILLE

Sheriff Bailey, Im glad youre here. I have a message for you on the wire.

JOSEPH

Thank you, Camille.

CAMILLE joins PATRICK behind the bar.

JOSEPH reads the message.

CHARLESEverything alright, Joseph?

JOSEPH

Right as rain, Charles. Just a message I was expecting from the Sheriff in Deadwood. If

youll excuse me, I need to take care of some things back at the jailhouse. Red, you know

where to find me.

RED

I got it under control here.

JOSEPH exits.

TEDDY

How about that drink, Miss Phoebe?

PHOEBE

No, thank you. Marshall, shall we get started?

60.


65/134

RED

Naw. I reckon not.

CHARLES

Pardon me?

RED

Stay out of it, Preacher man.

PHOEBE

I can handle this, Charles. Dont you have some questions for me, Marshall?

RED

I thought I did. But I dont. Get me a drink, Teddy. It aint her.

TEDDY

Sure thing, Marshall. This calls for a celebration! Patty, a round of drinks for everyone!

PATRICK and CAMILLE start preparing drinks.

SARAH and JOHNNY enter from the street.

SARAH is lovelorn and JOHNNY is eager to get

back to PHOEBE.

TEDDYMiss Phoebe, you sure do make a grown man wish he was back in school. I bet you

could teach me a thing or two.

PHOEBE

Like manners? How were the stars, Sarah?

SARAH

So lovely you could get lost in them.

JOHNNYBut not half as lovely as you, Miss Phoebe.

PHOEBE

Youre too kind.

PATRICK and CAMILLE bringdrinks for

everyone.

61.


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CHARLES

When are you shoving off, M arshall?

RED

Come again?

CHARLES

You said Phoebe isnt the woman youre looking for. Seems to me your business here is

concluded. When will you be leaving Elizabethtown?

RED

I aint rightly decided.

TEDDY

You stay as long as you like, Marshall. And if the accommodations at Sheriff Baileys

arent to your likin, come on out to my place.

RED

Thank you. I reckon I might take you up on that.

TEDDY

Its settled then. Alright, everybody! Drink up! Were havin a party !

TEDDY throws his drink back, and the rest followsuit, some halfheartedly.

JOHNNY

Oh, I almost forgot. The Sheriff asked to see you back at the jailhouse, Marshall.

RED

You dont say.

JOHNNY

Yeah. It must be pretty important. He didnt stop to chew the fat or nothin.

RED

Then I reckon I oughta go see the Sheriff. Thanks for the drink, Teddy.

TEDDY

Dont mention it.

62.


67/134

RED

Save some whiskey for me. Im gettin thirsty.

RED exits. PHOEBE shudders. CHARLES

notices.

CHARLES

That was a whole lot of nothing. Dont you agree, Phoebe?

PHOEBE

What? Oh, yes. A bunch of nonsense.

JOHNNY

Would you like to dance, Miss Phoebe?

PHOEBE

Theres no music.

JOHNNY

We could make our own.

TEDDY

The woman aint interested in dancin with you, boy. Leave her alone.

PHOEBE

Mr. McCain, I am more than capable of answering for myself.

TEDDY

Yes, maam.

CHARLES

The night is drawing on. Perhaps you should turn in.

PHOEBEPerhaps youre right. Good night.

PHOEBE exits.

63.


68/134

TEDDY

Tarnation! This is turnin into a regular, damn sausage party. (Notices SARAH) Well,

lookie there. Come over here, sweetheart. Let Uncle Teddy buy you somethin warm to

drink.

SARAH awkwardly sits in TEDDYs lap, try ing to

make JOHNNY jealous.

SARAH

Ill have what y oure drinking.

TEDDY

Patty , get this girl a whiskey!

SARAHWe could take our drinks up to the Attic if you like.

TEDDY

Oh, I would like that a lot. Uncle Teddy has been goin through a dry spell. Looks like

the drought is over.

CAMILLE hands SARAH her drink.

SARAH

Lets go.

TEDDY

Bottoms up, sugar.

SARAH gulps down her whiskey. Winces.

JOHNNY

Sarah, whatre you doin? Youre drunk!

SARAH

Its none of your business what I do or who I keep company with. Come on, Teddy.

SARAH rises and takes TEDDYs hand. He

follows behind.

TEDDY

See you around, boys!

64.


69/134

SARAH and TEDDY exit.

JOHNNY

Father, why didnt you say somethin? She dont know what kinda man Teddy is!

CHARLES

Ive lived long enough to know when to stay out of other peoples love triangles. If you

care so much about Sarah, do something about it.

CHARLES rises, leaves some money on the bar,

and exits towards the Doves Nest.

Music plays as the scene shift to the Sheriffs

Office at the jailhouse. JOSEPH is seated at is desk

as RED enters.

RED

You wanted to see me?

JOSEPH

Have a seat, Marshall.

RED sits down across from JOSEPH.

RED

Im sittin.

JOSEPH

I just got a wire from the Marshalls office in Kansas City .

RED

You dont say.

JOSEPHOne of the reasons I moved out to Elizabethtown was because I liked the idea of being

isolated from the world. Sometimes the wire is the only way we keep pace with the rest

of the country.

RED

You are pretty far off the beaten path.

65.


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JOSEPH

That we are. And as such, when you get newcomers in your town, you have to go with

your gut sometimes to decide whether the people you welcome are worth a damn or not.

REDI reckon you would have to.

JOSEPH

Like the day I introduced you to Father Austin, and he told me I should make sure

Johnny hadnt burned down the jailhouse. I should probably tell you Johnny has never

burned down the jailhouse.

RED

No?

JOSEPH

No. That was just Charless way of telling me to look into your past. And I did.

RED starts to fidget with his holster. JOSEPH

pulls his gun on RED. RED smiles, rises and holds

his hands a short distance from his holster.

RED

Whatre you doin, Sheriff?

JOSEPH

I got in touch with the Marshalls office in Kansas City. Asked them about the

Mississipp i Black Widow. I asked them about you. Funny thing. They didnt have the

slightest notion who the Mississipp i Black Widow was. But they sure knew about Red

Miller.

RED

I think you better put that gun down, Sheriff. Youre liable to hurt yourself.

JOSEPH

It seems that Marshall Red Miller was murdered just outside Kansas City . No

witnesses. But the body was a mess. Someone did a number on the Marshall. So you

probably know the question Im about to ask you.

RED

I reckon I do. But afore you ask it, I got a question of my own.

66.


71/134

JOSEPH

Im listening.

RED

You ever have dreams about the Senatobia Massacre?

JOSEPH, in shock, lowers his gun and RED wrests

the gun from him.

JOSEPH

How do you know about Senatobia?

RED

Im a Mississipp i boy, Colonel! Any southerner whats worth a damn has heard about

it. How the gallant Colonel Bailey marched into litt le ole, Senatobia with his mighty

army and butchered the whole damn town! I tip my hat to you.

JOSEPH

Thats not how it happened!

RED

Thats the beauty of oral history. It doesnt matter what happ ened. It just matters what

gets passed on.

JOSEPH

Are you going to kill me?

RED

Kill you? Why, hell no! Im gonna use you.

JOSEPH

No. (MUSIC CUE)

REDTheres a little lady in that hotel that has somethin I want. Youre gonna help me get it,

or I will knock you off that lofty pedestal this town has seen fit to place you on.

YOU PUT THE SIN IN SENATOBIA

67.


72/134

RED

HOW DO YOU SLEEP AT NIGHT?

ID DRINK TO STOP THE FRIGHT!

DO YOU REPLAY THE DAYYOU MURDERED ALL THOSE CHILDREN?

JOSEPH

It was an accident!

RED

IF I WAS JUST LIKE YOU,

THIS IS WHAT I WOULD DO:

ID KILL THEIR PARENTS, TOO.OH WAIT, YOU BEAT M E TO IT.

JOSEPH

It all happened so fast.

RED

YOURE A PIECE OF WORK.

I WOULD LIKE TO SHAKE YOUR HAND

AND MAKE YOU WORK FOR MECAUSE I THINK YOU UNDERSTAND...

YOU PUT THE SIN IN SENATOBIA.

YOU PUT THE MASS IN MASSACRE.

YOU PUT THE DEATH TOLL UP NEAR EIGHTY

WHEN YOUR SOLDIERS SHOT MRS. HUNZEKER.

NO NEED TO BE MODEST.

JUST GO AHEAD AND TAKE YOUR BOW CAUSE


JUST CROSS ME ONCE AND I WILL TELL EVERYONE

HOW!

JOSEPH

You know that isnt true. You know my men were lookingfor runaway soldiers. A shot

was fired, and things got out of hand. I tried to stop it!

68.


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RED

Yeah. But it sounds better my way.

DID YOU THINK COMIN HERE

WOULD MAKE IT DISAPPEAR?YOU LIKE TO PLAY THE SAINT

BUT THEIR BLOOD HANGS ON YOU.

JOSEPH

Who are you?

RED

ILL TELL IF YOU AGREE

TO LIVE AND DIE FOR ME.JUST HELP ME FIND MY STASH

AND THEN I WILL BE GOIN.

JOSEPH

Wait. This is about Phoebe? Shes the Widow?

RED

THERES NO WIDOW

CAUSE HER HUSBAND ISNT DEAD.DONT BE SO SURPRISED.

LOOK AT ALL THE LIES YOUVE SPREAD.


YOU PUT THE MASS IN MASSACRE.

YOU PUT THE DEATH TOLL UP NEAR EIGHTY

WHEN YOUR SOLDIERS SHOT MRS. HUNZEKER.

NO NEED TO BE MODEST.

JUST GO AHEAD AND TAKE YOUR BOW CAUSE


JUST CROSS ME ONCE AND I WILL TELL EVERYONE

HOW!

JOSEPH and RED circle each other.

69.


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JOSEPH

I wont help you. Ill stop you.

RED

I was afraid youd say that. Have it your way.

RED pulls a long knife from his belt.

JOSEPH

I reckon you aim to use that on me.

RED

I reckon I do. People will be more apt to believe you was murdered by the Lakota if its

done with a blade.

JOSEPH

You know I wont go down without a fight.

RED

Im countin on it, old man.

JOSEPH grabs a chair and uses it to advance on

RED. JOSEPH manages to knock the gun out of

REDs hand. JOSEPH hits RED with the chair andsends RED reeling. JOSEPH dives for his gun

behind the desk. RED regains footing and goes after

JOSEPH with the knife. RED makes several stabs

at JOSEPH with guttural grunts and groans. RED

stands with the bloodied blade and looks down at

JOSEPH.

RED

This is gonna hurt me more than it does you, Colonel.

RED starts a very precise cut on himself as the

lights fade and the scene transitions.

Transition music plays as PHOEBEs room is

brought into position. PHOEBE is sprawled on her

bed as the lights rise. There is a knock on the door.

70.


75/134

PHOEBE rises, primps, and goes to answer it. It is

CHARLES. He pushes in past her.

PHOEBE

Charles, what are you doinghere?

CHARLES

You know why Im here.

PHOEBE

It is late. I am tired. All I want to do is go to bed. Cant we talk about this in the

morning?

CHARLES

If I thought you were going to be here in the morning, I would go right now.

PHOEBE

Whatre you talking about?

CHARLES

Who is he, Phoebe?

PHOEBE

Who?

CHARLES

I will not play games with you. You have to know by now that I am your friend, and

that I will not let anyone or anything hurt you. But you have to tell me the truth. How

do you know Red? Who is he?

PHOEBE

You better sit down.

CHARLES

I dont want to sit down.

PHOEBE

Sit down.

71.


76/134

CHARLES sits. PHOEBE goes to her bed and

pulls the suitcase out from under it and puts it on

the mattress. She opens it and pulls out a bottle of

bourbon and a couple of glasses. She pours a glass

and walks over to CHARLES.

CHARLES

Im not thirsty.

PHOEBE

I dont want to drink alone. Indulge me.

CHARLES accepts the glass. PHOEBE goes back

to suitcase and pours herself a drink.

CHARLES

Do you always travel with bourbon?

PHOEBE

I travel with a lot of baggage.

CHARLES

Phoebe.

PHOEBE takes a pull on her drink.

PHOEBE

Red is not who he claims to be.

CHARLES

I know. Who is he?

PHOEBE

His name is Baxter Shaw. Hes my husband.

CHARLES

I dont understand. You said your husbands name was Hubert Baxter Woodward.

PHOEBE

I know I did. I had to.

72.


77/134

CHARLES

Shaw. Shaw. Red was looking for Caroline Shaw. Called her the Mississippi Black

Widow. If Red is really Baxter Shaw, then who are you?

PHOEBEIm Caroline Shaw.

CHARLES finishes his bourbon, rises and crosses

to the door.

PHOEBE

Charles, where are you going?

CHARLES

I have to warn Joseph.

PHOEBE

Please. Dont leave. You have to let me explain.

CHARLES

I know people, Phoebe. I should have seen this. I should have known you were lying.

PHOEBE

It wasnt all a lie.

CHARLES

You murdered four men!

PHOEBE

No! I didnt! It was all Baxter! It was always Baxter. Please, Charles, dont leave.

CHARLES

How could I not see it? I didnt want to. Got distracted. And you. Youre a beautiful

woman. Too beautiful. Were the other men fooled as easily?

PHOEBE

Im not that woman, Charles. You have to believe that. He would have killed me. I was

a child when I married Baxter. He worked with my daddy on the docks in Savannah.

Thats how we met. I thought Daddy was a bad man. So when I met Baxter, and he was

so charming, and rugged, and strong...I thought he would get me out of that life, away

from my father. I didnt know he was worse! He took me off to Mississipp i, and I saw

him for what he really was. A con man.

73.


78/134

PHOEBE (CONT)

But I didnt know to what lengths he would go to get what he wanted until he made me

part of the con. He said he would kill me if I didnt go along with it. I was afraid. So I

did. I wooed the men. He took their money and their lives. I knew eventually he would

kill me, and I ran away with the money, so he wouldnt be able to profit from his crimes.

CHARLES

What did you do with the money?

PHOEBE

I still have it. I was going to give it to you, to the Church.

CHARLES

How could I possibly take that money, knowing what I know?

CHARLES starts to leave. PHOEBE grabs his arm.

PHOEBE

Please dont.

CHARLES

I cant stay.

PHOEBEI know what I have done is wrong. Stay. Hear my confession.

CHARLES

This is not a Church. Caroline.

PHOEBE

Then dont absolve me. But at least stop lyingto yourself long enough to admit youre

running away, too.

CHARLESWhat?

PHOEBE

Youre running from this. Us. I know you have the same feelings for me that I have for

you!

74.


79/134

CHARLES

Youre wrong.

PHOEBE

You say you know people. (MUSIC CUE) But you dont let people know you. Let meknow you.

WHY FEAR THE FORBIDDEN?

PHOEBE

ALL THAT I ASK IS FORGIVENESS.

ALL THAT I ASK IS A CHANCE AT LIFE.

ALL THAT I ASK IS TO KNOW YOU.

LAY WITH M E NOW AND END BOTH OUR STRIFE.

CHARLES

WHO IS THIS STRANGER BEFORE ME?

IS SHE A FRIEND OR A DEADLY FOE?

IF I REACH OUT AND EMBRACE HER

WILL WE TO HEAVEN OR HELL BOTH GO?

PHOEBE


WHY NOT TRUST WHAT YOU FEEL INSIDE?

LOOK INTO MY EYES.

THERE IS NOTHING LEFT TO HIDE.

I DO LOVE YOU.


DAMN ALL THE WRONGS. WE BOTH KNOW ITS

RIGHT.

LOSE YOURSELF IN ME

AND GIVE IN TO ECSTACY.

GOD M ADE ME FOR YOU.

I KNOW YOURE SCARED SO ILL BE BRAVE FOR TWO.

I WAS MEANT TO SPEND MY LIFE WITH YOU.

75.


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CHARLES

No. I cant.

PHOEBE

You can. You want to. I see the way you look at me.

CHARLES

Its not that simple.

PHOEBE

It is simple, Charles. Its the only thing that is.

CHARLES

Not for me.

IF I GIVE IN, I WILL CRUMBLE.

IF I STAND FIRM, YOU WILL RUN FROM ME.

IF I DONT FIGHT, I WILL LOSE YOU.

THERE IS NO FUTURE THAT I CAN SEE.

PHOEBE tries to interrupt. CHARLES stops her.

CHARLES

GIVE ME ONE REASON TO TRUST YOU.GIVE ME ONE REASON TO HOLD YOU NEAR.

GIVE ME ONE REASON TO STAY HERE.

I CANT CONFESS THAT I LOVE YOU, DEAR...

PHOEBE CHARLES

WHY FEAR THE FORBIDDEN? YOU WOULDNT UNDERSTAND.

WHY NOT TRUST WHAT YOU FEEL INSIDE?

LOOK INTO MY EYES.

THERE IS NOTHING LEFT TO HIDE. I SHOULD RUN AWAY AND HIDE.I DO LOVE YOU. I CANT LOVE YOU.

WHY FEAR THE FORBIDDEN? I BOW TO GODS COMMANDS.

DAMN ALL THE WRONGS. WE BOTH KNOW ITS RIGHT.

LOSE YOURSELF IN ME

AND GIVE IN TO ECSTACY. WELL BOTH BURN FOR

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PHOEBE CHARLES

BLASPHEMY!

GOD MADE ME FOR YOU. I CANT YIELD TO YOU.

PHOEBE

I KNOW YOURE SCARED SO ILL BE BRAVE FOR TWO.

I WAS MEANT TO SPEND MY LIFE WITH YOU.

PHOEBE moves in to kiss CHARLES as the lights

dim and the scene shift.

Transition music plays as the Inferno is brought in.

PATRICK, CAMILLE, and JOHNNY are in the

bar.

JOHNNY

Shes your sister, Patrick.

PATRICK

Is she now? Thank you for pointing out the obvious, friend.

JOHNNYYou know damn well that Teddy is as crooked as a dogs hind legs. You know he aint

gonna do right by Sarah.

CAMILLE

Whats it to you, lover boy? Seems to me you had your eye on Miss Phoebe all night.

JOHNNY

Thats different. Sarahs my friend.

PATRICKIs there a point in there somewhere? Camille is my friend. Why do you think I married

her?

CAMILLE

I thought it was because we were caught together in the windmill back home.

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PATRICK

That might have played into it.

JOHNNY

All Im sayin is that he bett

elizabethtown: a musical western

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