tale of two brothers steve eng

7/29/2019 Tale of Two Brothers Steve Eng

1/96

A TALE OF TWO BROTHERS

1983-2007 STEVE ENG, ANNE ENG, TED P. YEATMAN. ALL RIGHTS

RESERVED. - WGA

FADE IN:

EXT. MONTAGE of TRAIN/INT. PASSENGER CAR - DAY

1890s steam locomotive moves through a green expanse of

rolling hills covered with deciduous trees

A) Men in Western garb fidget with their bandanas, guns.

Act nervous and excited. Check revolvers, Winchester

Rifles, shotguns and .52-caliber Smith carbines

B) Some men show less interest. Reading Police Gazette,One reading dime novel with Buffalo Bill title

C) One man looks at pocket watch inscribed TO FRANK JAMES:

YOUR FRIENDS

D) Man next to him sucks briefly on whiskey flask

E) We see these last two men, over-the-hill, sixty-ish,

cowboy types, heavily mustached whisper to each other,

looking at the men on the train, then out the windows as

train pulls into station in a big cloud of steam.

FRANK

Nearly time, Cole.

From his POV through train window we see sign NASHVILLE

as train pulls into the station.

EXT. TRAIN PLATFORM

SUPER: NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, MAY, 1903

A crowd of people on the platform. Dressed in 1903 clothing.

FRANK

Okay men, lets get going.

COLE

Lets show them. Lets show them

real good.


2/96

MEN IN OLD West gear pour off train blasting their guns at the

BYSTANDERS; WOMEN and CHILDREN scampering and screaming. Men go down

but theatrically. The VICTIMS get up, laughing.

INSERT: We see a banner WELCOME TO NASHVILLE FRANK JAMES AND COLE

YOUNGER.

FRANK and COLE, two sixty-ish cowboy types, rangy and wiry, swagger

off the train; met by SHERIFF accompanied by a PHOTOGRAPHER. Flash

powder ignites; Frank amused.

EXT. FIELD NEAR TRAIN STATION (SITE OF WILD WEST SHOW) DAY,

continuing

Sheriff walking along with Frank and Cole as they give instructions,

encouragement to SIDE-SHOW STAFF as they begin setting up the Wild

West Show.

Wild West side show staff unloading train and setting up carnival.

Snake oil salesmen, white men in Indian costumes, old-timers in scout

costumes, etc.

A flurry of activity. Sign on side of circus wagon reads THE GREAT

COLE YOUNGER AND FRANK JAMES HISTORICAL WILD WEST SHOW.

SHERIFF

(ingratiating handshake)

What an honor to have you and Cole

here with your Wild West Show.We got a lot a folks wanting to meet

you boys. The whole towns excited.

EXT. FIELD NEAR TRAIN STATION (SITE OF WILD WEST SHOW) DAY,

continuing

EAGER BOY

Hey, Mr. James? Your autograph

BOY in pants hes outgrowing, rudely pushes himself in front of Frank

and sheriff, hopping backward as he begs for autograph.

SHERIFF

Now, go on Levi. Get out of here.

Leave the gentlemen alone.

Frank signs the dime novel the boy pokes at him.

BOY

Mr. James, was you and Jesse really


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in Panama?

Holds up a dime novel, The James Boys in Panama.

FRANK

Thats what they say. Really son, you might

ought to try these kinds of stories too.

Pulls out a worn, curled copy of the New Testament.

FRANK (CONTD)

(signs Dime Novel)

You can learn all you need to be successful.

Even a poor boy can be famous in this great

land, but by honest work

BOY

(bored with lecture)

Erthanks Mr. James.

Grabs autographed book; rushes away screaming excitedly, while his

friends along the side of the crowd look enviously.

INT. MAXWELL HOUSE HOTEL, LOBBY SAME DAY

REPORTER

How does it feel to be back in

Tennessee, Mr. James?

FRANKMighty, mighty good. Always loved Nashville.

Uh-ha little hot and humid here. But a good

place to settle. First come here right after

the war.

Pulls photograph of self with Jesse out of pocket.

FRANK (CONTD)

See that uniform? Werent even mine, just

one the photographer had in his studio. I

picked out the officers uniform; moreimpressive. Paid for a second copy to send

home to Ma, in fact.

REPORTER

(hammering on Frank)

Did you actually wear a Southern uniform,

Mr. James?


4/96

FRANK

Hell, I was with Quantrills guerrillas. Wore

a uniform I took off a dead Yankee mostly.

REPORTER

Did the gang rob any banks or trains in

Tennessee?

Frank stiffens and begins in a clenched-teeth growl that he quickly

softens into a respectable tone.

FRANK

You been reading them dime novels, boy. Never

broke a law in Tennessee. Worked for the Indiana

Lumber Company. God loving happiest days of my

life here with my wife and young Robert in

Tennessee.

REPORTER

(continuing to bear down on Frank)

Was you at the raid on Northfield, Mr. James?

FRANK

(bristling again)

No! I certainly were not! They never proved a

thing, and for good reason. Theres nothing

to prove.

REPORTERWasnt you supposed to be tried but they

wouldnt extradite you to Minnesota?

FRANK

(irritated and angry)

Politics, sheer Yankee politics!

COLE

(covering for Franks irritation)

The James boys were just not there. Two

other fellas named Woods and Howardgot away. I ought to know, I was there

together with them.

COLE (CONT)

(shrugging reflectively)

Didnt spend twenty-five years in Stillwater

Prison for nothing. Learnt my lesson. Model


5/96

prisoner too.

REPORTER

(smugly)

Crime doesnt pay, eh?

Cole nods solemnly, secretly glares at the reporter as he leaves the

hotel room.

FRANK

(chuckles but with a sad look)

Cole, I almost believe I never was at

Northfield. I told so many people so many

times I wasnt. Hope God dont hold it against

me for not owning up to it publicly. I get

nightmares about ithanging from a gallows.

Wake up in a cold sweatsee them men I killed

FRANK(remorseful grimace)

Theyre hanging me. Sometimes I think it would

have been easier to hang one time than the

hundreds of times I dreamt it. Wife Annie and

little Robert watchingso pitiful. Even before

Northfield I was hanging every night in my sleep.

Ugh! I had no where to turn but to God for peace.

EXT. TOWN SQUARE DAY

SUPER: NORTHFIELD, MINNESOTA, STREET, SEPT. 7, 1876

A bank robbery is taking place

CITIZEN

Get your guns boys. Theyre robbing

the bank!

A bullet misses his head, lodges in brick wall. Dives for cover.

BANDIT who shot at CITIZEN, dodges back into building with painted

sign FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF NORTHFIELD on front.

A CONFUSED MAN is unsure which way to go for cover.

BANDIT

Idiot, get out of the street!

CONFUSED MAN

(thick Swedish accent)

Kanst nicht sprek Anglish.


6/96

He falls to the ground having been shot dead in the head.

INT. HARDWARE STORE - SAME DAY (continuing)

We see the owner issue boxes of shells over the counter with

shotguns. Near the end of the counter, next to a jar filled with

peppermint sticks, some outlaw dime novels are displayed, such as The

Red Ranger of the Rockies, or, The Bandits Reward.

TOWNSMAN

(Townsman with gleam in his eye, and a repressed leer.)

Give me another box of them shells, will you?

Hurry Im going to bag me an outlaw so help me.

EXT. SIDE STREET, HOUSE WITH PICKET FENCE, SAME TIME

A HUSBAND thrusts self into house. Pushes past surprised WIFE, whowas going to hug him. Nearly knocks her over.

WIFE

Oh youre home early, Finis? Why?

HUSBAND

Wheres my kepi? Where the hell is it?

Tearing through drawers. Grabs Civil War musket off wall.

WIFEYou havent worn it since last Fourth of July.

Whats happening out there?

Man runs out the door, nearly knocking his wife over again.

Jams cap on head. Wife starts to run after him but realizes need for

cover and returns home.

INT. LOBBY OF HOTEL SAME DAY

Excited MEDICAL STUDENT rushes into LOBBY. Tosses text

books down on DESK-CLERKS counter: Advanced AnatomyandSurgical Technique.

MEDICAL STUDENT

Give me that Sharps rifle you keep, George.

Some men are robbing the bank.

DESK CLERK

What the?? Heres all I got.


7/96

Desk clerk hands four cartridges along with the rifle. Medical

student grabs them and takes the stairs two at a time, clears the

top step of the hotel stairs.

INT. HOTEL, SECOND FLOOR

Medical student barges into room. A MAN WITH A BLANKET around him

bursts into the hall, followed by a woman draped hurriedly in a

sheet. She is heavily rouged, and it is all smeared. Dyed black

hair.

MAN WITH A BLANKET

(to the woman he is with)

Bandits! Out in the street! People are getting

their selves killed!

The medical student is at the window almost instantly, jamming his

first cartridge in and levering it up into place. BLAST! BANDIT

riding below blown from saddle.

MEDICAL STUDENT

(grinning)

E-e-haw, I got me one!

EXT. STREET OUTSIDE BANK, SAME TIME

Down on the street other bandits ride by, shooting; the fire is

returned from the buildings.

INT. BANK LOBBY, SAME TIME

FRANK

Open the safe damned quick or Ill

blow your head off.

Frank with gun to terrified TELLERs head.

BANDIT

Cmon, lets cut his damned throat.

Puts knife to Tellers throat, cuts his throat slightly in attempt to

intimidate him.

FRANK

(angry and desperate)

If you knew what was good for you, youd best

open the safe!!


8/96

The bank-teller has a bloody lump on his head, where he has

been whacked with a gun barrelneck bloody. He is terrified:

BANK TELLER

(terrified and stuttering)

Hon-honest! I I, I, Im t-t-telling y-y-you,

th-the safe has a t-t-time l-lo-lock on i-it.

Uh-hu-huh. I-it it it wont o-open f-for

s-several h-hours. B-be-believe m-me.I-Im

t-t-telling th-the t-truth.

INT. BANK LOBBY, FRONT DOOR, Franks POV - SAME TIME

BANDIT covering Frank:

BANDIT

Cmon, man. Weve got to get out of here, now.

This here place is a death-trap! Theys shooting

us all to pieces. Listen up, just cmon, man.

INT. BANK LOBBY, VIEW FROM FRONT DOOR

Townspeople mowing down the bandits. Bandit covering Frank

rushes out to waiting horse.

FRANK

(in a rage)

Damn you! You might could have saved your

life you idiot! Heres what I think of your

time-lock story.

BLAST! The TELLER is killed, though OFF SCREEN

EXT. STREET OUTSIDE BANK

They have gotten no money from the bank. The other bandits are

mounted up. Some are wounded, bloody clothes, horses rearing from

gunshot noise. Frank springs into the saddle, head down, riding low

in the saddle.

EXT. STREET IN TOWN, LEADING OUT OF TOWN, (CONTINUING)

CITIZENS are deployed randomly, behind barrels, around corners,

waiting for their chance to pour lead into the retreating column of

outlaws. Outlaws start to fill the screen. Two men to one horse.

EXT. MONTAGE OF STREET IN TOWN

A) EXT. HARDWARE STORE, SIDEWALK


9/96

Hardware store owners face grinning, having shot an escaping bandit.

B) MIDDLE OF STREET

A CITIZEN throw rocks at the gang as they disappear in cloud of dust.

Baseball style, left arm full of rocks.

EXT. STREET IN TOWN, BAKERY

The HUSBAND from earlier with his kepi on aims his Civil War musket

across a rail, fires, misses by a mile and across the street, a large

glass window explodes, glass shattering its shards into some loaves

of bread in the window of the towns bakery. He scowls.

EXT. ROAD OUT OF TOWN, IMMEDIATELY AFTER ROBBERY

We see Cole Younger on galloping horse, bleeding all over: has been

shot several times and clutches wounds as he rides low in the saddle.

No immediate posse is formed. Town in too much confusion-three

citizens dead, two outlaws dead.

INT. TELEGRAPH OFFICE, SAME DAY (within minutes of robbery)

OPERATOR sending message in Morse, from a hand-written note: BANDITS

HEADING WEST FROM NORTHFIELD. REQUEST FULL AID IN THEIR CAPTURE FROM

ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS. LARGE STREET BATTLE. CITIZENS KILLED.

SIX OR SEVEN BANDITS AT LARGE, HEAVILY ARMED.

EXT. STREET IN TOWN, IMMEDIATELY AFTER ROBBERY

LITTLE CHILDREN are out in the street, gaping at the dead outlaws

being drug to and laid in front of the bank. FAMILY MEMBERS

hysterical over dead citizens.

FAMILY MEMBERS (V.O.) CHILDREN

(Wailing, screaming.) Bang, bang, youre dead, bandit.

Oh God! No-o-o-! Why?

The children shout at each other, pointing their fingers likepistols. One boy has a crudely carved wooden pistol, another a

short, broken tree limb as a rifle, and another is using a small,

little girls broom as if it were a rifle.

EXT. STREET IN TOWN, SIDEWALK, (CONTINUING)

Bodies of outlaws and citizens have been lined up in front of the

bank.


10/96

PHOTOGRAPHER

(Plainly irritated with children.)

Where are your parents!!?? Dont you touch the bodies

you hear? Go onget

One of the boys grabs a dead mans hat lying nearby, and runs away

with his treasure. His friends squealing with delight run after him

jealously. PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSISTANT comes up with the equipment, and

a photograph is taken.

CITIZEN (O.S.)

The bandits got away; they headed west.

SHERIFF arrives with deputies, to look over the bodies.

SHERIFF

(still in shock)

Got to find out who these fellows were.

DEPUTY

(full of confidence)

Probably the Sam Bass gang. You can tell from

their method of operation thats who it was.

The medical student has come, clutching his Sharps carbine.

MEDICAL STUDENT

(pointing at a body)

Sheriff, I got that there one. I wonder, sir,itd be possible, eryou see Im a medical

student

SHERIFF

(grins and glowers at the student)

And I reckon you want this here corpse to cut

up and learn all about the secrets a human

anatomy? You sure enough can have him. Good

riddance, but you got to pay for his burial when

youre through carving him up. Save the good

people of Northfield the expense.

Medical student beams.

CAMERA FOCUSES ON THE DEAD BANDITS, FADES OUT

CAMERA FOCUSES ON DIFFERENT BANDIT, FADES IN 3 weeks later


11/96

SUPER: SEPTEMBER 30, 1876

Picture of bandit grows smaller as camera draws back and reveals BOYS

trading Bandit cards.

BOY

I got two Cole Younger. They

captured him. Trade you.

Cards pass around. There are six cards in the set of outlaws

killed or captured. One boy is clutching a newspaper. Camera drops

to focus on headline: YOUNGER BROTHERS CAPTURED. OTHER BANDITS

BELIEVED TO BE JAMES BROTHERS, ESCAPE.

EXT. ROLLING TREE-COVERED HILLS IN SUMMER GREEN - DAY

SUPER: NORTHERN MIDDLE TENNESSEE, AUGUST, 1877

Two wagons full of belongings. Two-year old JESSE, JR. squirming at

Zees feet; ZEE driving team of horses with one hand and the other to

manage the child. ANNIE driving team of other wagon.

EXT. FRANK AND JESSE ON HORSEBACK - DAY

FRANK and JESSE ride together off to the side of the wagons out of

ear shot of wivesJesse, 30,about 58, thin, broad face with ice blue

eyes that have a weird winking tick. Hair dyed black. Frank, 34,

taller and slightly darker, also sandy hair dyed black.

JESSE

Just one more job, Frank. Make up everything

we lost from Northfield. That bank at Paducah

would be easy.

They stop at the junction of two roads.

JESSE (CONTD)

I can raise us a new gang. Be just like the

old days

Jesses face is lit up; Frank looks angry at the suggestion. His

wife ANNIE, 24, (petite auburn hair)who is just sensing the drift of

the conversation as the brothers become almost in ear shot, looks

apprehensive and irritated with her brother-in-law. Makes warning

face at her husband; doesnt want ZEE, 32, (looks just like Jesse)to

see.


12/96

FRANK

(with bitter irony)

Just like the old daysHuntington, West Virginia

Yeah, remember old Tom McDaniels? Found him in

A cornfield, didnt we? Took him several days to

die as I recall. Didnt they catch Jack Keene?

FRANK (CONTD)

(shaking his head)

Heard hes doing twelve years manufacturing

gravel for the great state of West Virginia.

Free room and board, too. In these hard times

of economic distress at least he has steady

employment.

JESSE

Them men were losers, Frank. Outright amateurs.

Were going to locate us some real experts.

FRANK

Northfield. How can you forget Northfield, Jesse?

Nearly got ourselves killed.

FRANK (CONTD)

(Rubs his left hip.)

My leg still pains me. We lost six out of

eight at Northfield, eh, brother? Lets

seem-m-m, Clel MillerBill StylesCharlie

Pitts, getting his ass blasted by them damned

Yankees, dumb Swedes and NorskiesAnd whatabout the Youngers? Aint they professionals?

Cole rode with Quantrill alongside me. Him and

Bob have a life vacation at Stillwater Prison.

Lucky to get that. Could have been hanged if

they hadnt pleaded guilty. Miracle it werent

us, Jess. They ever catch me, Ill stretch a

rope in the Minnesota sunshine for sure. Well

be lucky if we dodge Pinkertons from here on out,

just lying low and working for an honest dollar.

The very name Pinkertons incenses Jesse.

JESSE

Them swine, them devils. They blew mas arm

off and killed our little brother with their

infernal bomb

FRANK

(Franks shaking his head as he retells the story.)


13/96

Never would have happened if it hadnt been for us.

We got to live with that till our final day on

earth. That shard from the smoke bomb drove into

Archies chest. Bled to deathonly eight..

JESSE

Frank, them Pinkertons are the real bandits.

They front for the railroads, theyre

just hired thugs.

FRANK

Ah,h Jesse, we talk this into the ground every

time we get going on it. Politics just ripping

our world apart. Causing neighbors to take

sides against neighbors.

FRANK (CONTD)

(Rubbing his forehead)

Taking our land and giving it to the railroadswith the banks in cahoots. But its bigger

than us. Theyre squashing us like bugs. Cant

get a decent job cause we were on the wrong

side. Charging us an arm and a leg to ship

our grain on the trains. But they got the power

and backing and its only of matter a time. Were

going to get caught, Jess. Less we get killed

first. Theyre never going give up. Theyll

track us to South America if they have to.

Frank grabs hold of Jesses reins, trying to make his point

FRANK (CONTD)

You best face it. Wed just be fortunate if we

can say we gone straight for a few years, and

can show that were credits to the community.

With that, and our families, and our friends

up in Missouri government, why, we might get a

light sentence when the time comes. And it will

come, Jesse, as sure as anything in creation.

JESSE(pleading)

Dang it, Frank. Dont keep on keeping on. I

just need one more good take and I will be

able to leave it behind. I got to take care

of my family. I could buy a farm in Alabama,

or Nebraska. Without enough capital, I dont

know if I can farm, brother. Without help and

start-up money I be chasing a plow looking through


14/96

two mules ears the rest my life. Might just well

be in Stillwater with old Cole and his brothers.

FRANK

Jesse, you know Papa would turn over in his grave,

him being a man of God and all. Hed want us to

search for Gods meaning in what were doing.

JESSE

Cant get a job, cant hold office, cant

hardly do nothing a free mans supposed to be

able to do. Second class citizensless well

off than a darkie.

Jesse pulls his horses reins from Franks grip; gallops his horse

wildly away a hundred feet or so and just as intently gallops back

skidding to a stop in front of Frank.

JESSE (CONTD)

(looking dark and angry)

Marked men, and nothing else thats all we be

Besides, theyre really not going to offer me

amnesty. Remember, I tried that and nearly got

myself killed back in 65 up at Lexington.

Breathing is more difficult with a bullet in

the lungs. Trust me, brother, I got reason

none to trust Yankee swine, and plenty not to.

FRANKIt is your only chance, you got to make it work,

Jesse. With us establishing new identities we

can make it work. Thats the whole idea of

changing our names. You promised Zee. Im

praying to God that I can hide out long enough

they forget about what we done. Annie wont stay

with me if I dont change. And somehow I can make

it right.

JESSE

I know, I-I know your right. I cant let Zeeand lil Jesse down. I know the feeling. But

thats why I want to make one more heist. They

deserve better. So does Ma


15/96

JESSE (CONTD)

(Jesses mood changes: dark and determined.)

If we plan work from the cover of our farms

here and never, dont never, let the wives,

or nobody know, we could do it. Cmon, Frank

one or two jobs. We might could go west like

we talked and settle down for realin style.

Take Ma with us, give her the life she deserves.

They aint never going to find us; it aint

going to happen. Youre talking defeat, thats

not like you. I pray to God, but He helps them

who helps themselves. And lookee here Frank

Jesse rumbles through saddle bag and finds a much abused

copy of a dime novel extolling the Robin Hood exploits

of the James Boys, and waves it at Frank. Frank is disgusted.

JESSE (CONTD)(trying to convince Frank)

See, Frank. Were heroes from the war.

Nobodys going to suspect us being farmers

down here. War heroes dont farm. Were

suppose to be saving Missouri from the

evil bankers and train magnates.

EXT. DRIVERS SEAT OF ZEES AND JESSES WAGON- DAY, SAME TIME

The wagons have stopped, and pulled side by side.

Zee sees Jesse wave the dime novel; rubs face in horror.

ZEE

(to Annie)

There he goes again. He really believes that

fiction theyre passing around like moonshine.

EXT. DRIVERS SEAT OF ANNIES AND FRANKS WAGON- DAY, SAME TIME

ANNIE

Dont you worry, Zee, Franks determined to makea new life, and bring Jesse right along with him.

Frank will make him do right, you wait and see, sweetie.

Cmon now dont you have no hissy fits.

You know they set Jessie off.


16/96

ZEE

(looking half crazed)

What is Jesse saying to Frank? What are they

talking about?

ANNIE

(trying to ignore Zees angst)

Frank and hard work and your sweet loving will

bring him around. I know it will. Look how good

hes been lately. We been praying about it.

ZEE

(Zee calls to the men)

You men going to talk business all day, or we

going to Nashville?

Jesse irritated that Frank is not budging. Spurs his horse way from

Frank; rides up to his wagon sliding to a stop

EXT. BY SIDE OF ZEES WAGON DAY continuing

JESSE

(irritatedpointing a commanding, husbands finger at Zee)

Frank and Annies going to Nashville. Theres

that place I want to see in Waverly, remember,

Zirelda, I told you about it? Lets decide after

we see it. Some good farming acres. Good price.

Place for some horses, besides the farming. We

aint decided, yet. Franks got hisself a jobwith a lumber Company on the east side a Nashville.

We got to make a go with the farming.

ZEE

(registering surprise)

But Jesse, you said we might could find something

closer to Annie and Frank. Waverlys so far. Must

be eighty milesmay as well be in Missouri.

JESSE

(softening)Zee, we got to make our own way. We talked

about this. Now lets not be making a

spectacle.

Wagons pulling apart. Jessie and Zee go west; Frank and

Annie continue south to Nashville.


17/96

EXT. FRANKS AND ANNIES WAGON, SAME DAY - EVENING

Camp fire burning down, finishing eating

ANNIE

(pleading tone changing to sarcasm)

Jesse gets such strength from you Frank.

I worry about his resolve to go straight

being so far from you. I think he might

could have dark motives Hes got an edge

to him I dont rightly trust. I seen him

lie to Zee and make light of it.

FRANK

Nah, Annie, hes just protecting her.

ANNIE

But I aint seen him lie to you. I just

have a bad feeling. Zee lets herselfbelieve hes fighting for the Southern

Cause. Ten years is a long time to not

be getting the idea. But maybe she can

change him. Be easier if we was nearer.

FRANK

(scowling)

You know it just angers me when you bad

mouth my brother. Just quit! Hes coming

along just fine.

FRANK - (CONTD)

(reassuringly)

Lets not us go round and round about this

yet again. I about got Jesse to see hes

going to get caught. Well.he got the scare

put into him after our narrow escape after

Northfield. Did I tell you?

ANNIE

(looking irritated)

Yes, yes , Frank, you did and I dont likeTo hear those details

FRANK

(oblivious to her irritation)


18/96

We posed as lawmen chasing the notorious

James brothers through the Dakota Badlands.

Was almost funny sort of.Besides, little

Jesse was born in Nashville back when they

lived there. Jesse didnt much like living in

town thenwants to stay away from peoples so

much. Not scary if you just try to blend in.

FRANK (CONTD)

(Frank as if relieved, turns to Annie)

Anyways, Annie! Maybe peoples would think we

were somehow together if we arrived at the

same time. Its all for the best. For a while

we got to act like we dont know each other.

EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF WAVERLY, TN LATE SAME AFTERNOON

Jesse, Zee and little Jesse are having a meal beside the parked

wagon. Camp fire, rabbit on a spit.

The proud parents are playing games like peek-a-boo with little Jesse

as they discuss their situation. Little Jesse gradually falls asleep

in his fathers arms.

JESSE

Yall will see, Zee. We really can start over.

Best chances to enjoy living is to make it

happen. I give you my word. Glad I got an in to

sell some wheat and oats. When I get some money

up, I can get another race horse or two. Butfirst, the farm

ZEE

(Zee winces at the thought of race horses.)

Jesse, we live in crazy times. Good things

look bad and bad things look good. I feel

so confused by it all. I know youre fighting

for the Cause, and all. Somehow I still be

worried. Cant sleep. Wakes me up fearing

theyre going towell, you know

JESSE

(trying to soothe Zee)

Now, now, there

ZEE

We cant stop bankers and railroads from

ruining our way of life. You cant crush

their power. Not to mention the Republicans


19/96

running the country. Trying to reconstruct

what they destructed. But maybe moving down

here into the south and way far from all that

confusion we can recreate some semblance of

life as we knowed it. Your opportunity to buy

and sell for the grain company is a start.

I still dont much like being here so far from

things when you be gone so much with the grain

business. Not to mention Im already missing

your Ma and my own kin folk.

ZEE (CONTD)

(Almost whispering and with firm resolve.)

Another thing, Jesse. You got to promise me

youre going to stop trying to punish the railroads

and the banks. Theyre going to capture you if

they just dont kill you outright. Some innocent

peoples will be getting hurt. I want lil Jesse to

have a dad. Lets make a go of it farming, graindealing, something honest. Please, you are such

a good man. And you mean well

JESSE

There you go again. Accusing me of evil. Whose

side

You on, Zee? I dont understand you no ways. Zee,

the Unionists are wrong, false, false, dead wrong.

They are the dishonest ones and deserve what ever

grief we can stir up. Besides, you never seem to

object when I bring home the goods.

ZEE

(looks conflicted; tears well up)

Jesse, Im so grateful, jest plain grateful you

come back at all. Besides me and lil Jesse has

got to eat, but Id as soon it were from straight

honest labor. You got to keep your word to go

straight. They got might on their side, Jess, you

cant change them single handedly, and certainly

not with your guerrilla tactics.

JESSE

(pretending disdain)

Oh, guerilla tactics, Really, Zee? You dont

know


20/96

ZEE

(driving a point home)

Dont need be no martyr, Mr. James. Look how

much blood has already been spiltand they are

winning Oh, Jesse, lets not fight. I love you

so and only want us to be a family.

They embrace.

JESSE

(sighs heavily)

I know, I know....

EXT. MONTAGE, ARRIVAL IN WAVERLY, TENNESSEE NEXT MORNING

A) JESSE SIGNS FOR FARM - MORNING

A sign is passed, reading WAVERLY, TENNESSEE, as Jesses family

wagon proceeds into the center of a tiny town. We see Jesse enter a

building and in an office, he is signing some papersclose up, hissignature is JOHN DAVIS HOWARD.

Back in the street, with his family waiting in the wagon (like

tourists in a car) we see Jesse talking to a citizen who stretches

out an arm giving directions.

B) ARRIVAL AT THE FARM NOON They arrive at a ramshackle cabin.

This dump of a home soon transformed by Zee, but her first reaction

is horrorrevulsion at this farmhouse slum. Then romanticizes how

easy it will be to fix it.

C) WORK VIGNETTES DAY Hurried sequence of work vignettes. Zee

sweeping tons of dust. Jesse chopping wood, mending a fence. Zee

doing hard work like digging with a shovel, with a two year-old boy

playing alongside.

D) MAKING A RACE TRACK DAY Jesse is scything the tall grass in

the fieldthen driving posts.finally, riding a fast horse in a make-

shift race track.

EXT. JESSES RACE TRACK - DAY

Scene opens with TWO riders galloping across an imaginary finish

line. They seemingly arrive at the same time. One of the two riders,

JIM WARD, smiles as he brings his horse to a walk.

JIM WARD


21/96

Guess you owe me ten dollars Mr. Howard.

HOWARDJESSE

Hell, think you got that backwards.

JIM WARD

Now what do you mean?

Voices trail off in violent dispute.

EXT. ZEE CARRYING WATER FROM THE WELL DAY (CONTINUING)

ZEE

Dave, suppers ready.

She hollers to her husband in the distance as she is walking toward

house with a bucket of water.

ZEE

(to herself)

What is he up to??

EXT. JIM WARD RIDING AWAY IN A HUFF DAY (CONTINUING)

EXT. APPROACHING PORCH SAME DAY

Jesse is riding toward the house, laughing. Zee on the porch now, is

perplexed.

ZEE` Whats so funny?

JESSE

Hah! I jest threatened to kill that

Jim Ward. He believed it.

Jesse slaps his leg involuntarily with mirth.

By accident Zee drops the bucket of water instantly at hearing this.

Her voice high pitched.

ZEE

You forgetting jest who you be? A fugitive. I

got permanent battle fatigue worrying whats going

to happen to us. You promised things would

be different. Words like kill, banks and


22/96

trains set my innards on fire.

Zee is not hysterical or high-strung. Quickly re-composing herself,

she demands with frosty understatement:

ZEE

Did I hear you say you threatened to kill Mr. Ward?

Jesse snaps into some kind of awareness. He tries to soothe her.

JESSE

Oh, Zee, dont you go getting all worked

up now. Its jest in the heat of the moment.

Red Fox beat his horse fair and square. Didnt

Like him trying to bully me.

ZEE

You know youre going blow your cover and get

yourself caught. Then what will happen to me andlil Jesse? Besides you made me spill a whole

bucket of water. You need to go fetch me another

bucket of water directly.

She begins to mutter with annoyance. She looks

up squeezes water out of her dress too emphatically.

ZEE(CONTD)

Jess, I read about half the peoples starting

on a farm dont make a go of it in the first

year. Lose all their savings, jest like that.

She snaps her fingers; then with sweet sarcasm:

ZEE (CONTD)

(sneeringly)

But I know youre going to win a whole lot

more money racing horses

JESSE

(irritated)

Now, Zee. Youre jest like Ma. Im notgoing to quarrel with you.

Then half to himself:

Should never married my cousin. Too much of

the same damn crazy blood.

With perfect feminine timing, and before he can retort, Zee instantly


23/96

smiles and out-stretches her arm with the bucket.

He melts under her smile.

ZEE

Here, now go get some more water and get

washed up. Blackberry pie bout ready to come

out of the oven.

She then lapses back into more heavy advice. Calls to him as he heads

to get bucket of water.

ZEE

You ought not to be threatening nobody, not

one, not even as a joke, Jesse. Folks liable

to think wereyoure some kind of outlaw. Now

I am doing my part, agreeing to call myself Mrs,

Howard and even raise our lil boy as a Howard.Lil

Jesse thinks his only-est name is Tim.

JESSE

I just slipped. I will make it sos no one

will think me capable a anything but

being a yella belly. Yeah, what was I thinking?

EXT. FRONT PORCH OF NOLAN HOTEL, WAVERLY DAY, week or so later

CAMERA FOCUSES ON FRONT PAGE OF DIME NOVEL:

WILD WEST WEEKLYAll of these exciting stories are founded on facts.

Young Wild West is a hero with whom the author was

Acquainted. His daring deeds and thrilling adventures

Have never been surpassed. They for the base of the

Most dashing stories ever published.

Young Wild West,

The Prince of the Saddle

by An Old Scout

Grows smallerit is seen that a FIFTEEN-YEAR OLD BOY is reading this,

while sitting on the porch of the Nolan Hotel, Waverly, Tennessee.

FARMERS close by are talking weather and crops. Suddenly Jesse (Mr.

Howard) comes running up, winded, scared:

HOWARD/JESSE

Hey, ruffians, down by the bridgejest managed


24/96

to escapeplease helpthey attacked me.

FARMER 1

Maybe ought to go down and take a look.

Goes into the store and emerges with a shotgun and a .22 rifle.

HOWARD/JESSE

(ingratiating)

Oh, thank you. If them fellas ketch

up with me I dont know what Id do.

FARMER 1

Here, Mr. Howard, take this.

HOWARD/JESSE

(shakes head)

Uh-h, Id, Id rather not. Dont like holdingguns on peoples, especially when they

already threatened me.

FARMER 1

(throws gun to boy)

Here!

Boy drops his dime novel and neatly grabs the weapon from the air on

reflex.

EXT. WALKING TOWARD BRIDGE INTO TOWN DAY,

OLDER MAN WITH DOG

This ol houndll sniff out whateer

critterss there. Dogs as brave as any

man of us. Maybe braver than some of us

Looks with disdain at Mr. Howard.

OLDER MAN WITH DOG (CONTD)

Go in there and get them, General.I call him General Forrest after

my old commander, because hes fearless.

Barking. Sudden crash of bottle. Dog beats retreat, yelping, toward

the rear, passing the men.

EXT. BY THE BRIDGE - DAY, (CONTINUING)


25/96

DRUNK 1 (O. S.)

(Growls a surly voice from down under the bridge.)

Who goes there?

FARMER 2

(with shotgun)

Come on out or well blow you out.

Two local DRUNKS emerge, shabby and unkempt, five or six day old

beards, grimy hands raised over heads, bottle in hand.

FARMER 1

(Turns to Jesse.)

Oh, hi, Henry. These fellass is local fixtures.

DRUNK 2

(offers Jesse half full bottle)

Here, take yourself a drink.

HOWARD/JESSE

(Jesse declines.)

Let me explain

DRUNK 1

We jest met him down by the bridge, wanted to be

friendly, didnt mean him no harm. Feller sure

spooked. Ran off real suddenlike a rabbit.

HOWARD/JESSE

Ha, Ha. Yeah, I guess its all funny now that

I think of it. Honest, I thought you boys was

out to rob me.

FARMER 2

You sure scared easy, son.

The teenager looks wary of Mr. Howard, and distances himself as

they walk back. The boy marches with his .22 on his shoulder with

soldierly affectation. Mr. Howard is still trying to explain toanyone who will listen

INT. NASHVILLE FEED STORE, COUNTER DAY

A sign fills the screen: NASHVILLES LARGEST SUPPLY OF

GRAINS AND FEEDS. B.S. RHEA AND SONS


26/96

HOWARD/JESSE

If its not one thing, its two more.

Crops fail. Its now my hens wont lay.

MR. RHEA

Nobody among my customers trying harder than

you to make a farm go, Mr. Howard. Now

heres something you jest might could try.

Mix it right in with the feed, Dr. Quigleys

Electro-Invigorator. Invented them electric

belts. My cousin Fate he uses one.

Gestures to a poster-calendar advertising the miracles of the

electric belts, and other Dr. Quigley products.

MR. RHEA

Now this Invigorator removes impurities

from the blood in man or beast. Or fowl,

you can be sure. At least, I got several

farmers that swear by it.

Jesse digs out two of his last dollars.

CAMERA PANS BACK, to reveal back of a man who is walking up. Mr.

Rhea recognizes him.

MR. RHEA

Dave, I want to introduce you to this here

good customer a mine. Ben Woodson. Ben, this

here is Dave Howard out of Waverly. Dave heres

farming some land over on the Link place ten

miles west of Waverly.

Jesse reaches out his hand, smiling broadly. The man whose back we

first saw is now revealed to be Frank James.

WOODSON/FRANKPleased to make your acquaintance.

HOWARD/JESSE

Great store here, huh? Pleased to meet you.

What did you say your name was?

INT. FEED STORE, BEHIND FEED BAGS, ETC. DAY


27/96

Jesse contrives some farm small-talk, as Mr. Rhea turns away to give

an order to one of his clerks. Then Jesse grabs Franks sleeve.

Nods him back of the counter, behind a pile of feed bags. Here Jesse

starts in again on Frank:

HOWARD/JESSE

I been studying this real close. All we need

is four good men. My information says theres

a bank in Owensboro, Kentucky thats jest loaded

with money from the steamboat tradeI was talking

with a steamboat captain the other day

WOODSON/FRANK

(annoyed)Will you quit, Dingus?! Not interested in

planning a heist. All banks are easy, Jesse,

if your lucky. But how can you tell me you

can make it happen? How can anybody know

if a bank tellers going to open a safe or

not? Even with a gun at his head? We couldnt

get a look inside that Northfield safe, Jess.

HOWARD/JESSE

Them Younger boys had too much drink, Frank.

Anyways, Northfield was Cole Youngers idea.

WOODSON/FRANK

(Changing the subject.)

Hows Zee and lil Jess getting along?

HOWARD/JESSE

Oh, good as ever, I reckon. Were hurting,

needing money. Farmings brung me down. Owe for equipment

and feed and barely managed to pay last months rent. Had to

sell the cattle still oweCooley for.

WOODSON/FRANK

First years the hardest in anything. If you need

to, come live with us. But youre good at farming,

youll do fine. Come to church with us.

HOWARD/JESSE


28/96

(half to himself)

You been talkin to Zee.

HOWARD/JESSE (CONTD)

(intent on making Frank agree)

I dont know, Frank. Wish I was good at poker

like you. I owe a few diddly-squat gambling debts.

Dont tell Zee. Really. But damn it, that aint

the point. We need one good haul, and then we might

could buy our own land and really dig in with our

families. Iwe owe it to our wives. Then I might

could make me some moneysome big moneywith race

horses, if I just had a nest-egg. Got to come up

with it. Thats why I need one last bank job.

WOODSON/FRANK

Ever thought of hauling lumber? I been doing

that part-time. Make good money. By the way,

Annies expecting. Going to need a little helpfrom Zee maybe. We all have to get together soon.

HOWARD/JESSE

Frank, thats wonderful. Hope all goes well.

Slipped my mind, but Zee jest had twins two weeks

ago. Boys, born early. Both died. Buried. Zee

its brung her down right smart. I stopped in the

dry goods store and got her a bolt of calico to

make herself a dress. Looks best in blue. Might

could cheer her some.

We see Mr. Rhea looking for the brothers. Shows surprise to find them

hidden behind some bags of feed.

MR. RHEA

Your order will be ready, Mr. Woodson. For fellas

what dont know each other, you sure got a lot to

say back here. Why dont you come back out by the counter?

HOWARD/JESSE

Was looking for some feed stuff. Oh, Mr. Woodson

here he knows some peoples up at Waverly. So

when he heard I was from there, he wanted to fillhisself in on their doings.

Mr. Rhea smiles, but then looks at them both intently again when they

are not looking. Doubt is all over his face.

EXT. FIELD AT JESSES FARM DAY, SPRING 1878

WILLIE, the farm hand, runs up to the house.


29/96

FIELD HAND

Missus Howard, Missus Howard, Mister Howard

in terrble way. He fall down like he got

da swamp fever.

Zee and Willie, haul perspiring Jesse into the house. They struggle

with the dead weight of the man. Willie is sent for DR. MONTGOMERY.

As he enters Jesse is delirious, sweaty, agitated and in bed.

INT. JESSES HOUSE DAY

HOWARD/JESSE

(Jesse delirious, in bed)

Watch your backs. We got to shoot our way out

of here. Blast them blue bellies. Cant let

them take us alive. Cut through their linesand into the woods.

DR. MONTGOMERY

Husbands in the war, I take it?

JOSIE/ZEE

Who wasnt? Yes, he served with General Joe

Shelby.

DR. MONTGOMERY

Fine Southern officer. Yalls moved down herefrom Kentucky, didnt you? Its a shame Shelby

had to depend on scouts from Bloody Bill Anderson.

Had no choice. It dont reflect none on him, hell,

there were no one else but that butcher Anderson in West

Missouri except for Yankees. But if your

husband served with Shelby, now thats different.

JOSIE/ZEE

Yes, were all mighty proud of Daves war record.

With Gen. Shelby.

DR. MONTGOMERY

Ugh! That Bloody Bill Anderson, now-w-w, hes

something else. Jest like that monster Quantrill,

who gave him his start. Thats where them durned

James and Younger brothers served, you know. Look

what happened to them. Rode with savages. Still

are savages. Did you ever see them up there?


30/96

JOSIE/ZEE

No, but them Union Jayhawkers was jest as vicious

and bloody. I heard plenty of jest plain awful

stories about them. Killing women, babies and old

men; burning farms, poisoning wells. They say the

Southern guerrillas was protecting the people,

from them butchering Yankee soldiers.

DR. MONTGOMERY

Theres some truth to what you say, Josie. In

fact my brother-in-laws family was bothered by them

burnt their barn. Wars never pretty. Jest

the same, theyre going to get the James brothers.

JOSIE/ZEE

(Looking suspiciously.)

Why you talkin about the James gang?

DR. MONTGOMERY

All you ever see in the newspaper. You dont get

a paper out here much do you? Theyre closing in

on them bandits. Keep seeing where theyve put

another away in prison. The bandits are giving

States evidence against each othera house divided will

fallyou know thats right? Every train robbery..bank..blamed on

the Jameses. Its over

ten years since the war ended, and theyre still

robbing freely. Dont believe they think itsabout fighting a war anymore; their robbing seems

more like big, easy money than jest settling the

score. Theyre going to catch them. Like they caught

them Youngers already up in Minnesota. Thousand

peace officers chasing them.

DR. MONTGOMERY (CONTD)

(Stands to go)

James boys got plumb away. Twere seen up in

Sioux City, Iowa. Mighty awful bad about that

bank teller. Killed. Shot right in the head.Couldnt open the safe..had a time-lock on it.

Zee looks ill, tears welling up in eyes. Stays out of Dr.

Montgomerys field of vision.

DR. MONTGOMERY, (CONTD)

Hate to see decent citizens done that a way.

Just a matter of time before that James trash


31/96

will be brought to justice. Disgrace to the noble

Southern Cause.

Doctor doesnt see Zee wince as her breathing deepens to stifle her

panic.

DAVE/JESSE

(Still delirious.)

I need water, get me a canteen.

DR. MONTGOMERY

Get me a basin of cold water

He continues to apply wet cloths to Jesss forehead

DR. MONTGOMERY

Keep him down and give him this here quinine. One,morning, noon, and another before you go to sleep.

Gives Zee small bottle of quinine. As he leaves, Zee presses a

basket of eggs upon the doctor.

JOSIE/ZEE

Here, doctor, its jest a lil toward what we

owes you. For the twins and all too.

DR, MONTGOMERY

You doing okay, since the twins? Come too early.Not growed enough. Sorry, not likely for babies

that come that early to make it. My youve got

those hens to laying again, I see.

JOSIE/ZEE

(Zee nods yes, shrugs shoulders.)

Oh, yes, Dave got the hens back to health with

this remedy.

Zee shows him the bottle.

DR. MONTGOMERY

(reading the label)

DR. QUIGLEYS ELECTRO-INVIGORATOR.

GOOD FOR MAN OR BEAST (h-m-m) INTERNAL

OR EXTERNAL USE. 50% ALCOHOL. Looks

like high time in the hen house, tonight.


32/96

INT. KITCHEN OF FRANK AND ANNIES HOUSE DAY

SUPER: NASHVILLE, FELIX SMITH PLACE, NOVEMBER 1978

ZEE

(smiling)

Annie, its so kind of you and Frank to take

Jesse and me in. Couldnt farm at all all summer

for the malaria weakness and sweats. Getting on

my last nerve worser than when I nursed him back

to health after he was shot in the chest

surrendering to them hateful Yankees. Thats whenwe knowed we wanted to marry back when wes sweet

on each other. He was so brave

ZEE

(Zees smile turns to anger)

He near diedsuffered something awful. Now hes

just aggravating the snuff out of me. Couldnt

pay the rent, borrowed money from a couple of

locals. So hes being sued. Hes depressed, and

me right along with him. Trying to keep cheerful

for lil Tims sake. If it werent for yall wedbe caught between a rock and a hard place. I tell you,

I am so grateful that Jesss out looking for a real job. Franks

a good influence on him, Annie.

I jest dont know what wed do.

ANNIE

Oh, Zee, you know thats what families are for.

Besides lil Robert heres been so fussy, cutting

teeth and all. Im glad for some help. Cutting

teeth early. My granny said thats a sign of

intelligence. You ever hear that?

Six-month old Robert in cradle; Tim stirring with big spoon

a mixing bowl half filled with walnuts in the shell on the floor by

the mothers.

Jesse comes in. He is buoyant, and anticipating a horse race.


33/96

INT. KITCHEN OF FRANK AND ANNIES HOUSE DAY

JESSE

Red Foxs the fastest horse I ever rode. Well

win that race tomorrow. Hes in rare form.

The women wince behind his back.

ANNIE

(To Jesse.)

Hope you feel as good as youre looking.

Your colors some better, Jess.

INT. PARLOR FRANKS AND ANNIES HOUSE DAY

Zee and Jesse go into another room to talk quietly. They embrace, a

quick but affectionate hug.

ZEE

What are you going to do about Ennis Cooley?

Moving away hasn't solved it at all. With him

suing us. You better be lucky at the races.

It's so embarrassing, being served a summons

in public. Now I heard the Cooley boy can't

go to medical school with the loss a that money.

JESSE

It's them lawyers. They all stick together. Not to

be surprised if mine and his was in cahoots. They

get rich off bleeding the working man.

Zee shudders and grimaces through this tirade; Jesse doesnt notice.

JESSE

Besides, Cooley's a coward. He's been calling me

A crook. And he refused my challenge for a duel.

Man that won't meet on the field a honor hain'teven a man...

Zee turns her head. Grabs her stomach. She can only listen to so

much.

JESSE

Zee, honey, don't you worry. We going to win us

some money at the race...


34/96

He flashes his contagious grin. Voice trails off as scene closes. Zee

looks even more devastated.

EXT. NASHVILLE RACE TRACK DAY

We see Jessie come in a close second on his horse.

A local sheriff's DEPUTY, looks intently at Jesses

horse, since it seems more wild than the average horse. Jesse handles

it exceptionally well. The deputy by-stander again nods with

appreciation. The deputy smiles sincerely.


DEPUTY

Whoa there, nice race, Dave.

HOWARD/JESSE

Be better if I won. Thanks jest the same.

DEPUTY

You sure knows how to handle a horse. Thats an

Army saddle. You in the Four Years War?

Jesse smiles, not threatened by the question.

HOWARD/JESSE

I was born on a horse. Cant remember ever walking

no place. Oh-h-h, ye-e-s, I spent two years with Shelby.

Who wasnt in the late great Unpleasantness?

Or affected by it? Dangdest thing that ever happenedTo this country.

The deputy beams. Shelby is a name to stir pride in an ex-

Confederate.

DEPUTY

Yes, Shelby. Fine a cavalry officer and gentleman

as any man what served under the Stars and Bars.

The Southern Cause might could have flourished if

he had more than trash to rely on. Them bloody

butcherers, Quantrill and Anderson inflamed the Unionists

with hatred for their lawlessness. FourYears War, sad times. Did you hear in the news?

Last week, Jesse James was killed.

HOWARD/JESSE

Not again! I hope its for real this time.


35/96

Spare me the details

DEPUTY

(polishes the badge on his chest.)

It was bound to happen. Them James boys got their

start with Quantrill and Anderson. Learnt to be

guerrillas and kept on these dozen years stealing

under the pretext of continuing the war. I wonder

what they do with all that train and bank money?

I fought in Franklin, one of the bloodiest, under

Hood. But when the war was over, I was grateful.

Now look at me, I am an officer of the law. You

cant tell me you cant get ahead even though you

was a Confederate. No excuse for what that gangs

doing. They are jest making it harder for us decent

folk.

HOWARD/JESSE

O-o-h, well, now I'd hate to pass judgment. Theminnocent Yankees did terrible things. Murdered

peoples, dragged women and children off to prison

without trial. Beat on young boys. Any government

that makes war on civilians isn't Christian, isn't

even human...

The deputy shakes his head and turns away. Scene dissolves in a

blurry haze connoting a flash-back.

EXT. MONTAGE UNIONIST 0CCUPATION OF MISSOURI DAY

SUPER: "MISSOURI, AUGUST 1863."

UNION SOLDIERS burn down a family farm. REFUGEES are leaving.

CHILDREN cry to see their little animals being butchered. HORSEMAN

pursues a chicken with his sword on foot, laughs, pulling his horse

along behind him. As the families move along in wagons or on foot,

worldly goods drop into the mud. A Union soldier's horse tramples a

child's doll just as she reaches for it--her mother pulls her back.

Another soldier throws dead chickens down a farmhouse well. A woman

turns away with a look of nausea.

EXT. FARM YARD DAY

SUPER: "THE JAMES FAMLY FARM, KEARNEY, MISSOURI, SUMMER, 1863


36/96

YOUNG JESSE (15 years old) apprehended by Union Jayhawkers in blue

uniforms. They beat him savagely, then drag him and drop him at the

feet of his STEP FATHER who is being pulled up and down from a tree

like a yo-yo with a noose around his neck. Soldiers then cart him

away half dead.

Jesses YOUNGER SISTER is looking on, cries hysterically

ZERELDA JAMES SAMUEL, Jesses mother who is a large woman about two

hundred pounds and 510, hair in a bun. Is pushed aside by the

soldiers. She tries to shield her two children from the sight.

ZERELDA

Jess, get me some water for your cuts. Don't

jest stand there. They no kinda menbeatin on

a boy. No tellin what theys goin to do to your

step-dad.

The young boy complies, his face in tears. She begins to bathe thecuts and scrapes on Jesses face and arms.

EXT. TRAIN DEPOT - DAY

SUPER: CENTRALIA, MISSOURI, SEPTEMBER 27th, 1864

Screen fills with bullet-riddled sign outside of train depot,

proclaiming CENTRALIA. In the background is heard a number of

voices...singing drunkenly, whooping it up, and then another bullet

hole is splintered into the sign.

Camera comes down from the sign. UNION SOLDIERS lined up in front of

the train station, down at the level of the tracks next to a

passenger train. They are clad only in their long-johns, guarded by a

group of GUERRILLAS, who are dressed in motley attire: civilian

clothes mixed with Union uniform pieces, various style hats (and

various colors).

One man's hat is rakishly pinned back with a gaudy star. They are

wearing too many" guns also, three and four revolvers a piece.

Some of the other guerillas look through the pile of blue Unionclothing that has been stripped from the soldiers. They search

pockets for valuables, and try on Federal pants, boots, tunics. The

Union soldiers have been going home on leave--this is a regular

passenger train.

Trunks being cast off the train; guerillas break them open. Someone

shoots a lock off. One man rummages in the trunkstosses a lady's

dress over his shoulder. PASSENGERS are present, also under guard and


37/96

witness this vandalism of their possessions.

WOMAN

Thems my hats!

A particularly ferocious looking BANDIT dons a lady's hat for comic

effect. Many of the passengers are physically fleeced, and not with

any "Robin' Hood" cavalier charm. Watches are yanked off watch-

chains, rings are torn off fingers.

One of the guerillas struts with a cane and top-hat.

Another wears a derby on top of his regular hat. Another is opens a

box of stolen cigars. Hands reach in; cigars are lit ostentatiously,

as if by discriminating connoisseurs.

BLOODY BILL ANDERSON

I warned the Yankees thisd happen. They jest

wouldn't listen. They really think they couldinvade a sovereign state a freeborn citizens and

trample on their rights? We only wanted peace and

they brought us war. They violated Gods laws.

Anderson produces a small, worn leather Bible from an inside pocket.

BLOODY BILL ANDERSON, (CONTD)

Its the word, from Genesis 9:25. Canaan son ofHam was cursed. Indeed, he was to be a servant of

servants...unto his brethren. The Jews shunned

the Canaanites, and this is proper. The darkie today has

his natural station in life. It's them damned abolitionists who

brung the wrath a the Lord on the honorable State of Missouri.

Shots are heard. There by the tracks are twenty-seven Union soldiers

sprawled on the ground, dead. The guerrillas ride past. In the

saddle Jesse James turns and looks back. His youthful face fills the

screen....It dissolves. Then it fades into:


Jesse's face fills the screen in the same position and expression as

the young Jesse just encountered. This is a dejected Jesse, still at

the race-track. Zee is with him.

JESSE

I wonder if I shouldnt go back to Missouri,


38/96

Zee? To see my ma. Jest for a visit. Got to let

her see I be doing better from the swamp fever.

ZEE

Oh, Jesse, were jest getting settled in here.

What if they want you at the mill, and yalls

gone. You know we needs the job.

She turns to Annie who is with them, anxious for her to reinforce

this. Jesse stalks ahead somewhat, glumly, out of earshot.

ZEE

(to Annie)

Poor Jesse, hes been discouraged of late. That

place was sure hard to farm. He had such bad luck.

Even the chickens got sick and died. But between

me and you I worry about him getting the opportunity

to meet up with some his old crowd that spells

trouble.

ANNIE

Oh, Zee, you dont supposeOh, oh that's

terrible, its been nearly two years since,

they, theychanged. Franks proof that peoples

can turn themselves around. Jesse can too, even

with his bad luck.

ZEE

Oh Annie, what am I going to do. He is so head

strong. I dont want him going. Uhh! I cant stophim no how. He aint like Frank. He jest wont

listen to me. Hes crazy about me, but it drives

him even worse crazy that he cant take care of

me and lil Tim.

ANNIE

(wraps arms around Zee, patting her shoulders.)

There, there, Zee. Maybe hes jest wanting to

see his Ma. You know how stuck the boys are on

their Ma.

ZEE

Oh, Annie, Annie

Both pull their shawls around themselves tightly.

EXT. SEDALIA NEWSPAPER OFFICE - TWILIGHT, establishing


39/96

SUPER: SEDALIA, MISSOURI, September, 1879

A rider is silhouetted; he reins in at a hitching post. He approaches

a newspaper office. The lair and kingdom of John Newman Edwards.

INT. NEWSPAPER OFFICE- EVENING, establishing

On the wall is a picture of Robert E. Lee, also Sterling Price and

Shelby. Edwards (fiftyish, medium build with long beard and

moustache, piercing dark eyes) writes at his roll top desk. Orange

cat is sitting on top of some papers. There are visible some English

popular novels, such as Dick Turpin the bandit, and a dime novel or

two.

EXT./INT. NEWSPAPER OFFICE- TWILIGHT, establishing

Outside, we glimpse the rider who has dismounted. It is

Jesse James. He pulls a bandana up over his face, and pushes open

the door.

EDWARDS, writing at his desk, has hit a momentary snag--he mumbles,

gropes for the right word, then turns and reaches for his nearby

flask. He swigs a snort, then, inspired, re-attacks his writing

assignment.

Suddenly he looks up--surprised, almost stupefied at a drawn gun

pointing at him. Edwards is still cool, not flinching or panicking.Raises his head slowly.

EDWARDS

You wouldn't rob a Confederate veteran now

Would you? I'm jest a poor journalist, and I'm

always starving. Like any man who tries to

write the simple truth.

Jesse pulls down his mask and smiles. Edwards cannot believe who he

is seeing. Face expands with joy. Jumps up and pumps, his hand.

EDWARDS (CONTD)

By gosh! What a sight for bloodshot eyes. Heard

you boys was down in Mexicothat's what I keep

hearing. Personally, I would have suspected you

might be in Tennessee because you always liked it

so much, and they got nothing on you down there


40/96

JESSE

Fraid them stories are right. Mexico is something

else. Got me a ranch down there. Raising a whole

heap of cattle. Long horns. Zee don't much like it

there. But my brother, Frank, hes real bad off;

got consumption, you know. Spitting blood. Even in that

dry climate, I fear he ain't long for this

here world. Now you keep all this to yourself,

Major Edwards.

EDWARDS

(solemnly)

If anyone can keep a secret, it's me. I guess

you seen this?

Holds up book, his Noted Guerillas.

EDWARDS (CONTD)

Almost 500 pages long. Couldnt say enough aboutyou heroes. Here listen to this: Anderson,

newly above the horizon, was flashing across the military

heavens as a war comet. Left to himself

and permitted to pursue his placid ways in peace,

probably the amiable neighbor and working man would

never have been developed into a tiger" Page 164,

right there it is.

Edwards thumps the page.

EDWARDS (CONTD)There, didn't that set the record straight? He been

so maligned by them Yankee hack writersI won't even

call them journalists. Reading their lies, you'd think

Captain Anderson was the incarnation of the Devil

himself.

Jesse looks away, to hide a grin.

EDWARDS (CONTD)

Look, see how I vindicated you boys.

Camera focuses on a Frank and Jesse James passage. Edwards starts

reading.

EDWARDS(CONTD)

What else could Jesse James have done? He had been

a desperate Guerrilla; he had fought under a black

flag; he had made a name for terrible prowess along

the border...hence the wanton war waged upon Jesse


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and Frank James, and hence the reasons why today they are

outlaws..."

JESSE

(Jesse dead pans.)

Major Edwards, you done proud by us. Were

fixing to live up to what you say about us.

EDWARDS

(waving hand in air)

Hell, I only told the truth. Unlike them Yankee

scurrilous scribblers up north. Them writers

is literary whores. Nothing more. Me, I hain't

even really started yet. You boys, jest you and

Frank, deserve a whole book a your own. I want

to tell your whole story. Think youre famous now?

You hain't seen nothing. You been persecuted

unmercifully. It's all got to come out. People got

to know how you been hounded for no other crimethan serving the Southern Cause under them noble knights

of the bush, Colonel Quantrill and Captain Anderson. I been

fighting for you boys ten years

now, in print. Every single time they say you did

a job, I refuted them. They never can prove where

you're at. I can usually show you were somewhere

else. 'Course, I do give credit where it's due.

Whoever is doing them robberies is as bold as

anyone from history. Be it Rob Roy or Robin Hood, it

is an achievement...

JESSE

Boy, you sure dont spare no praise in setting facts

aright. Yeah, I been reading the book. Learning a lot too.

Major, do you think they're ever going to get me?

EDWARDS

Not the great Jesse James, he can slip though a

thousand traps. Why, you know every back trail in

three states. Every farmer, no, every person who ever wore

Confederate grey or aided the Cause supports you, and will give

you refuge and succor.

JESSE

Major, I meanreally. These Pinkertons, theyll never give

up. It's all political.


42/96

EDWARDS

(Edwards looks more sober.)

Well, I admit, one misstep, one moment of bad

luck and its all over. The thing we got to do

is get the right man in, as Governor. I'm well

placed in Missouri politics. If we could run

General Shelby or General Marmaduke for Governor,

I know I could personally secure a pardon. Got to

do something. Some of them treacherous Republicans

are calling our oppressed land; The Outlaw State. Some

of them demagogues are fixing to run on a

phony reform ticket. Talking about 'cleaning up'

the State. I fear they'll elect someone on an

anti-Confederate ticket and make a scapegoat

out of some poor boy whose only crime was he fought

for his homeland....

JESSEYou see what you can do. But I tell you, I can't

wait forever. It right smart hurts my pride

and Zee'sto think that every two-bit thug who

robs a train gets it blamed onto Frank and me. And we

can't come forward to exonerate ourselves...

EDWARDS

Jess, I'll do everything in the power a my

connections to swing some kind of deal. With a

little maneuvering we jest might could get it set

up. Reclaim your rightful reputations as Missouripatriots and let you settle into respectable lives

as honored citizens. No less than you deserve...

Places hand on Jesses shoulder.

EDWARDS

Rest assured. Whatever happens, I'll always write

the truth....

INT. GLENDALE COUNTRY STORE - DUSK.

SUPER: GLENDALE, MISSOURI, OCTOBER 8, 1879

MEN play checkers. A dapper, well-dressed YOUNGER MAN whittles a

piece of wood - a pistol from a torn-out model in a magazine. He is

proud of it. This store is about 75 feet from train depot


43/96

YOUNGER MAN

(admiring his handiwork)

Jest like the real thing.

Another man reads a dime novel titled: Red Rob, the Boy Road-Agent.

Suddenly the door is kicked open. THREE MEN rush in, guns in hand.

The dime novel drops to the floor. The wooden carved gun drops to the

floor.

INT. GLENDALE TRAIN DEPOT DUSK

Inside the depot a BANDIT walks up and bangs on the metal grill of

the ticket window with a pistol. He has a bandana on over his face.

One CLERK is not visible to the robbers. He thinks he can escape and

foil the robbers. As he turns toward the door it opens, and in steps

Jesse, in the same attire that he wore visiting Edwards, and with the

same bandana-mask up over his face. With him is WOOD HITE, his

cousin.

JESSE

Now you wouldn't want to take long, now. You could

be missing an important moment in history. Yalls

about to assist a robbery by a famous outlaw. You be able

to tell your grandchildren you were robbed by Mr. Billy Bonney.

CLERK

Not--not the Billy the Kid....?

JESSE

(points guns)

Ably abetted a course, by his two colleagues, Mr.

Smith and Mr. Wesson.

Another BANDIT comes in the back door of the depot,

nervous, out of breath.

BANDITIs it all clear, here?

JESSE

(Jesse nods. Yells it out the back door.)

All clear.

EXT. GLENDALE TRAIN DEPOT DUSK


44/96

A crowd is herded across the yard from the adjacent store. The dime-

novel reader clutches his book which he has picked up again, and it's

over his head: his hands are up. The man who had been carving the gun

pleads to be spared.

GUN CARVING MAN

Don't kill me. You can have my money. Im

getting married.

BILL RYAN

(A jaded, nervous bandit, BILL RYAN, looks ready to kill.)

Shut up. Yall say one more word and you will

be getting your mail from the ground hog.

The captives are herded unceremoniously into the freight shed. Ryan

out of no necessity, just meanness, boots the gun-carver into the

shed with a kick in the pants.

JESSEWhat time this here train due in?

BILL RYAN

Hour.

CLOCK on the wall shows progression of an hour.

EXT. GLENDALE TRAIN DEPOT EVENING

JESSE

(to station agent)Lower the signal for them to stop.

STATION AGENT

I-I cant its broken.

Jesse forces his six-shooter into the man's mouth. The man, with the

pistol barrel down his throat, is forced to walk back a couple of

steps. With one hand he lowers the signal.

EXT. TRACK OUTSIDE STATION EVENING continuing

Train screeches to a halt. Gang goes into action. Shoot at the train.

Shoot into the air. The CONDUCTOR appears in a car's doorway, then is

driven back by a warning shot.

INT. VARIOUS CARS ON TRAIN EVENING


45/96

DICK LIDDIL captures the engineer, while TUCKER BASSHAM and WOOD HITE

go into the passenger car. PASSENGERS are looking up from their

newspapers; headlines include: JOHNSON PLEADS INNOCENCE IN GRAFT CASE

and THE STATE OF AFFAIRS 'IN THE WEST.

A pistol is shoved into a LADY's face; a hand pulls a ring off her

finger. An OLD CONFEDERATE VETERAN in a grey forage cap looks

terrified--one bandit takes cigars out of his pocket. Another bandit

takes things from the old man's pocket, tosses the loot into a flour

sack.

Meanwhile in the express car, ED MILLER has found a sledge hammer.

Jesse is standing by. Miller swings one blow, CLANG against the door

of the express car.

ED MILLER

So you locked yourself in, you son-of-a-rattle snake. If

You don't unlock this door, youre a dead man.

The door slides open. They rush in, intent on finding whatever is

there. The EXPRESS AGENT is forced to open the safe. Then he is

shunted aside, and as the bandits clean out the safe he tries to

escape. Jesse however knocks him unconscious with his pistol butt.

The gang fills the flour sacks with banknotes and negotiable

securities, as fast as they can; this is not a leisurely, orderly

heist.

EXT. TRAIN DEPOT PLATFORM EVENINGJesse is back on the platform. The flour sacks are full. Somebody on

the train fires a shot, which grazes the trousers of Wood Hite. Ryan

and some others return this fire.

JESSE

Best be going, it ain't safe around here no how.

EXT. HICHING POST EVENING (CONTINUING)

Bandits mount up. As they ride out, they pass the GLENDALE, MISSOURI

sign.

INT. FRANK AND ANNIES HOME DAY week after robbery

ZEE

(reading aloud from newspaper)

Glendale Train Robbed: James Gang suspected.

James Gang Glendale Robbery Disputed by Major

Edwards. Offers evidence that Frank James is


46/96

dying of consumption. Reputed hide-out in

Mexico. Pinkertons skeptical.

Paper drops, reveals Zee's face contorted with anger...Jesse comes in

the door.

ZEE (CONTD)

Well, Jess. How much money did you steal this

time? You went to see your Ma? Hm-m? Looks like

to me you went to rob a train. Look me in the eye,

Jess, and tell me it aint so. Jesse dont do this

to us. You got a family. What happened to your

promise?

JESSE

Now, Zee. Them Yankee robber barons got money

coming out their ears. Thiss just restitution

for the trouble theyve caused. Think how thoserailroads hired the Pinkertons to blow my Mama's

arm off with that diabolical bomb, and kill my lil

brother Archie. It's only evening the score. Besides

theyre robbing honest, hard-working

Southern folks with their blood-sucking freight

rates. Sheer Yankee meanness against poor Southern

peoples.

ZEE

(Zee looks tired or the same old story.)Is that what I'm going to tell our young uns

when their pas been brung down?

JESSE

(A funny look crosses Jesse's face.)

Zee. I got good news. I'm working out a pardon

with the Missouri politicians. Only is a

matter of time.

ZEEYou've been talking to that old sot Edwards.

No one believes thatthat Robin Hood slop he

writes about you and Frank. I don't think he

does neither. He even compared you to one a the

knights of the Round Table. If that's not

embarrassing, youve got no shame whatsoever left.

Don't tell me nothing about the 'Lost Cause'


47/96

She nods toward a picture of Frank James posed with a hog

On the mantle.

ZEE (CONTD)

Look how Frank's doing. Winning a prize for his

hog. He's getting into breedingRight now, fact is, he's

up in Kentucky exhibiting his prize Poland

China hog at the fair. Hes got an angle.

Eveybodys going to want his bloodlines. Hes

Going to make money that way. Why cant you

jest do something smart like that. You learned

to rob from Frank. Jest why cant you imitate how

hes fitting in?

JESSE

(smiles cynically)

Yes, I'm right proud of Frank. He seems to be cut

out to be a farmer. He's got that certain touch.

Plus, jest plain good luck. Good luck.

ZEE

(still riding Jesse)

Poor lil Jesse, Jr. He's pert near five. We can't

even call him by his name. He really thinks he is

'Tim Howard.

Zee pauses to mention the most important event that has escaped

Jesse's mind.

ZEE

(pointing to sleeping baby)Jess, you hain't even asked about your new lil

child. Your family heres a lil bigger now.

Look there. Lil Marys born. You aint so much

as looked at her nor asked how were doing. No

way I could get in touch with you

Jesse softens. He has been writing in a small tablet absorbed by

figuring. He turns to the crib with true humility and affection.

JESSE

Oh, Im sorry Zee. Shes looking jest like youand Ma. Marythats a great name. Mary James. You

doing okay, hun?

ZEE

Jesse, how long we got to hide? They're never going

to pardon you....Especially if you keep it up.

Jesse grabs Zee and holds her. He looks tormented. Camera goes back


48/96

to Frank's picture on the mantle and focuses on the blue ribbon.

EXT. TRAIN, PASSENGER COACH DAY

SUPER: BOWLING, GREEN, KENTUCKY, Mid October 1879

Screen fills with another blue ribbon, held in Frank James's hand.

Pridefully, Frank looks at the ribbon as he boards a train. In the

background a MAN cranes his neck to see better, through a crowd of

people. Catches a brief glimpse of Frank James. Recognizes Frank,

who is absorbed into the boarding passengers.

CONDUCTOR (O. S.)

ALL ABOAR-R-R-R-R-D

This man (who recognized Frank) is visibly excited, and frustrated,

not knowing what to do next. Heads back to the telegraph office, He

looks madly around in the crowd.

EXT. TICKET WINDOW - BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY

He approaches a telegraph window...

MAN

(with great urgency)

Sir, sir--is there a peace officer around?

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

(preoccupied with his paper work)

May I help you?

MAN

(even more impatient)No, nono I need police--or a deputy.

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

(finally giving his attention)

What's the problem?

MAN

I jest saw the infamous Frank James board that


49/96

very train.

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

Not Frank James the outlaw?

MAN

None other. I was at Samuel's Depot when that

butcher Quantrill's men surrendered. If that's

not him my name's Sarah Bernhardt.

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

(still in disbelief)

You sure? You ain't been jest reading too many

wild stories have you? Now here's one better than

any of them outlaw ones.

He holds up dime novel, Kit Carson, Jr., The Crack Shot ofthe West.MAN

No. damn it, I knowed what I saw. I was with that unit

that took the surrender of Quantrill's guerillas in '65.

I told you

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

(Finally the telegrapher focuses on what he saying.)

Oh, you were? Say, you might could know what youre

talking about....

MAN

What's the next station down the line? We need

to get through.

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

Well, the next town a any size is Franklin,

Kentucky. But the train's not scheduled to stop

there. Supposed to stop at Gallatin. Let me see

if I can get this telegraph key to work. Been

trouble with it this morning...

EXT. TRAIN SPEEDING THROUGH COUNTRYSIDE DAY

A sign is visible with the train, speeding past: FRANKLIN, KENTUCKY.

Frank James's face is visible in train.


50/96

INT. BOWLING GREEN, TENNESSEE TRAIN DEPOT

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

Never has acted this way before. 'Least not

since the War. We jest keep trying. May be

some work going on on the line down the way

may take a while to get that fixed. I'll try

to reach Gallatin--and if that don't work,

Nashville.

He glances up at clock while pounding on telegraph keys as if to make

them work

BOWLING GREEN CLERK

They should be at Gallatin in just a few minutesabout a ten minute stopthen they head into Nashville.

INTERCUT TO INT. TRAIN COACH

Cut to Frank James in the train. Train has stopped. Sign outside the

train reads GALLATIN, TENNESSEE.

INT. GALLATIN, TN TELEGRAPH OFFICE - DAY

Cut to the inside of the telegraph office at Gallatin. REPAIR CREW

FOREMAN is talking to the REPAIRMAN.

FOREMAN

Hope we can get this cleared up.

Must have been that storm last night.

EXT, TRAIN PLATFORM AT TICKET WINDOW GALLATIN, TENNESSEE

A MARSHALL with a badge comes up--it reads MARSHALL

CITY OF GALLATIN. Holds a stack of posters. They read PUBLIC NOTICE:

FOR SALE, and FORECLOSURE DUE TO TAX DELINQUINCY.

MARSHALL

(to clerk, while tacking up)

Is this a good place to put these up?

GALLATIN CLERK

(peering out his window)

Oh, on any of them pillars be aright.

Say, ain't that old Miss Whatley's place?


51/96

INTERCUT TO INT. TRAIN COACH

Frank James reading the newspaper is in stopped coach with Marshall

tacking up a poster outside visible through Franks window.

Newspaper shows a version of the Glendale robbery, with the follow-up

story: FRANK JAMES BELIEVED TO BE IN ROBBERY

INT. GALLATIN, TN TELEGRAPH OFFICE - DAY

More tension. Finally the key starts to work. The telegrapher writes

down the incoming message with a pencil. HOLD TRAIN. ON BOARD

BELIEVED MISSOURI BANDIT, FRANK JAMES. IDENTIFIED AS PASSENGER.

EXT, TRAIN PLATFORM AT TICKET WINDOW GALLATIN, TENNESSEE

GALLATIN CLERK

(rushes to catch train)Oh, crap!

Train has pulled too far away to notice his attempt to flag it down.

INT. NASHVILLE POLICE OFFICE DAY

Little KID comes in, out of breath, with a telegram.

KID

(to the desk clerk)

Hey, this is urgent. Make sure this gets to the

Chief a Police.

INT. NASHVILLE POLICE OFFICE DAY (CONTINUING)

OFFICER takes the telegram. Looks at it. Stunned but not shaken.

Beckons ASSISTANT in. Closes door. Hands him the telegram.

OFFICER

Frank Jamess on the train from Gallatin. Be

arriving in half an hour. How many men do we

got? There cant be no bloodshed.

EXT. NASHVILLE TRAIN STATION SAME DAY


52/96

Train is surrounded. MEN with shotguns. Winchesters, positioned

behind barrels or in windows. A few WOMEN and CHILDREN are being held

back--a CHILD escapes and runs across to see the train. He is

stopped, and herded back by an OFFICER.

EXT. TRAIN ARRIVES IN NASHVILLE

Train pulls to a stop. The OFFICERS move in with military precision.

Some drop behind pillars for protective cover. Officer waves hand:

two Men emerge at the front and rear of each car, and board it. Thus

the entire train is sealed" in each of its cars by the Nashville

police.

INT. OF TRAIN FIRST PASSENGER CAR DAY (CONTINUING)

They start down the aisles of the cars, demand identification of male

passengers--one man asks, the other as a back-up with a rifle at the

end of the car.

One MAN IN CHEQUERED SUIT has no identification but a good deal of

money and no clear story.

MAN IN CHEQUERED SUIT

I just come to Nashville to see my relatives.

OFFICER

Where they live? Whats their names?

They search him. They find two shoulder-rigged guns, and plenty of

money. The Officer gets more excited as he thinks he has captured

Frank James

OFFICER

(excited with high pitched voice)

Hold him. I got him, I got him, I got Frank James.

INT. SECOND COACH ON TRAIN DAY (CONTINUING)

They have arrested another character with no plausible explanations.

SECOND OFFICER

Nah, I think we got him prisoner, right here.

INT. THIRD COACH ON TRAIN DAY (CONTINUING)


53/96

CHIEF OF POLICE in another car. He holds a man. Then he notices a

familiar figure and face.

CHIEF OF POLICE

Hey, there's Mr. Woodson.

WOODSON/FRANK

(looks up from reading)

What's going on, Chief? Can I help in some kind

of way?

CHIEF OF POLICE

(offering handshake)

Ben. Ben Woodson.

WOODSON/FRANK

What yall doing? Something going on?

CHIEF OF POLICE

Had a little problem, Ben. Got a report Frank

James was on this here train.

WOODSON/FRANK

(looking surprised)

Really? Didn't know them James boys come this

far...Jest got back from the fair at Bowling Green. Will

you look at this?"

Displays his blue ribbon.

WOODSON/FRANK (CONTD)

Took a first place for my Poland China

hog.

Chief of police still holds a passenger, a suspicious-looking type,

but nods approvingly to "Mr. Woodson." He then compares his captive

to a Pinkerton reward poster of a drawing of Frank James which looks

like the suspect but not like the real Frank James who stands nearby.

EXT. NASHVILLE TRAIN PLATFORM DAY (CONTINUING)

Frank is now out on the platform. Pushes past assorted LAWMEN. Some

of them have taken at least temporary prisoners off the train.

Interrogations continue.

WOODSON/FRANK

(nods to an officer)


54/96

Howdy, Bill

OFFICER

Hi ya, Ben. Congratulations. I might want to

get me one a your hogs.

Frank says hello to various officers, flashing his blue ribbon. Then

he approaches an hysterical TRAIN CONDUCTOR

WOODSON/FRANK

Can you get someone to help me get my hog crate

Off your train?

CONDUCTOR

Oh, yes, yes. 'Been so excited. There's an outlaw

on the train. Cant tell you who it is, though.

Confidential like, you know?

WOODSON/FRANKReckon it's Billy the Kid?

Frank gets his hog in a crate. He proudly attaches his blue ribbon to

the crate, and walks past. The Police Chief is issuing orders to

release some of the suspects. He has zeroed in on the one with the

unaccounted-for cash. He's handcuffed.

CHIEF OF POLICE

Were going to talk about this down at the jail.

I'm going to telegraph your description to the

Pinkertons.

Frank stops at the depots news stand. Buys two dime novels.

LADY STANDING BY

What's going on?

WOODSON/FRANK

I reckon theyve caught Jesse James and one of

them Younger boys.

WOODSON/FRANK(lowers his voice)

One of them Youngers escaped, you know. Ain't been

in the papers...theyre trying to keep it hushed up till

they catch them.

LADY STANDING BY

(horrified)

Oh. Land sakes! Western bandits in Nashville. That's a

disgrace. As if the politicians wasn't


55/96

bad enough. What is this city coming to?

EXT. FRANKS NASHVILLE HOME LATER SAME DAY

Frank arrives home in a wagon; Jesse sees him arrive

tale of two brothers steve eng

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