- Where's Gen. Jackson?
- He's in the parlor, sir.
Having a meeting.
- Well, Ms. Minni...
- I got to see him.
Luther.
Luther Kilgore, try to remember
what little manners you have.
I got bad news,
Ms. Minni.
Sam Houston's made
a speech against annexation.
The Austin Blade carries
a full statement. This means...
I've known since
early morning.
- What does the General say?
- The General doesn't know.
- You kept this from him?
- That's right.
Why? Who are you
to decide...
I'm not only related to Andrew
Jackson. I'm also his friend.
I don't want to see him
go to his grave
any sooner than
the good Lord intended.
Your Texas has given him
enough trouble already.
He'll be told when this meeting
is over and not before.
But I must warn you, sir. If
we continue to campaign for Polk
on a platform favoring Texas,
we'll lose this election.
He's right.
Texas is a sl*ve state.
The people of the North'll never
tolerate adding shame to us.
I resent that, sir.
It's you who've twisted
the peaceful relationship
between master and sl*ve
into an evil.
- 'And so, it is.'
- 'That's a lie.'
'Highly eternal.'
I haven't heard so much dribble
since I left Washington.
Andy, I paid $17
for that vase.
Never did like
that vase anyway.
Oh, I know that
someday or other
we'll have to settle
the question of sl*very.
But right now, our people
are on fire with a new vision.
When they think of Texas,
they think of California
and the Oregon territory.
A democratic nation,
rich and magnificent
'stretching from
sea to sea.'
Yes, sir. That's our destiny.
And when the people go to the
polls, they'll tell us so too.
And then with the help of God,
my old friend Sam Houston...
'Not anymore, General.'
Read this, sir.
- The meeting isn't over.
- I had to do it, Ms. Minni.
"For his sudden reversal
Houston said
"three times we've petitioned
to be taken into the union
"and three times
we've been refused.
"Now, let's have no
further talk of union
"but of building
a greater Texas."
Ah, this is what comes
of your bickering.
'Your confounded
procrastination.'
Minni, did you
know about this?
Yes, but I saw no reason
to disturb you
until something constructive
could be done.
Constructive?
Devereaux Burke is
due here at 6 o'clock.
Dev in Tennessee?
What's he doing here?
- 'Business.'
- I don't approve of Mr. Burke.
'Nor he of you.'
But there's a job
to be done. A big job.
Someone will have
to find Sam Houston.
He's gone off into
the Comanche country.
Who'll go after him? You, Colby?
Thompson? Mr. Mayhew?
And who'll be willing
to campaign for us down there
with more than half the people
fighting mad against us.
It's 6 o'clock. Where is he?
Is he going to
disappoint us?
Could a man
be more prompt?
- 'Good evening, Mr. Burke.'
- 'Hello. Is General in?'
'Yes, sir.'
- Am I late, Minni?
- No.
But if I were younger, you'd
have been here an hour early.
Good evening, General.
You're looking extremely well.
That's a lie, but
I'm happy to hear it.
You know these gentlemen,
don't you?
- Oh, sure. Colby.
- Mr. Burke.
- Thomas.
- How do you do, sir?
Well, Mr. Mayhew,
as I live and breathe.
And how's the foreclosure
on Widows and Orphans' bidders?
- I don't think...
- No need to answer.
By the cut of your clothes and
swell in your belly, I can see.
- Thompson.
- 'Howdy, Dev?'
Luther! How did you
get so far north?
- Sure good to see you.
- I've been looking for you.
Tonight Nashville Hotel,
9 o'clock.
Uh, Minni tells me
you volunteered
to help us bring Texas
into the union.
Well sir, Minni made me
a kind of proposition.
'Proposition?'
It-it was only
politics, Andy.
I promised him, but I said,
you'd have to approve of it.
You'll excuse us, gentlemen.
You'll hear from me soon.
- 'Goodnight, General.'
- Goodnight. Goodnight.
Minni...come here.
Now say, what's
all this about?
Well, General. Annexation
means w*r with Mexico.
You're going to have to send
troops to defend Texas.
Those troops will
have to be fed.
- I want to feed 'em on my beef.
- I don't believe it.
You, a Texan,
trying to make a deal
when your country's life
hangs in the balance.
You, a man who'll fall against
the legions of Santa Ana.
- Or did you fight?
- I fought.
When it was over, was left with
a g*n, rope and a horse to ride.
And all of Texas
to find a living.
- Does a man need more?
- I didn't ask for more.
But I've learned a few
things this end, General.
If I'm gonna risk my neck,
I wanna come out
this time with something
more than glory.
'You are a scoundrel.
At least, a knowledged one.'
We'll buy your beef.
Come closer.
I wanna speak to you frankly.
Not because I have
any hope of rekindling
the spark of
patriotism in you.
But because I'm frightened
for the first time in my life.
I'm frightened for the future
of the United States.
You see, sir. We're on our way
to becoming a great nation.
The powers of Europe
know this.
And they'd stop
at nothing to block us.
Why, even now they're trying
to use Texas against us
and there are men down there
conspiring with them
to destroy us.
Well, that's hard
to believe, sir.
There's bitterness
towards the States
but they're
still Americans.
Yeah, and they're proud and
headstrong too like Sam Houston.
But they're being
led into a trap.
Now, that's the reason
you gotta find Sam Houston
wherever he is,
without him, we are lost.
I'll give you a letter
to him. Minni.
Now..
you tell him
it's my wish.
Probably, my last wish.
That the dream
we both shared
that we worked
so hard at..
be fulfilled.
Now, you tell him that.
What plans have you made
so far, Dev?
I'll set up in Austin. That's
where the real opposition is.
Headed by a man
named Tom Craden.
Tom Craden, cattleman?
Gold, cattle, cotton.
Anything you might name.
Why is he against us?
What's his stake in this?
I don't know exactly, sir. He
got in early. Dug down deep.
Likes things the way they are,
aims to keep 'em that way.
- Real noisy about it too.
- You'll have to shut him up.
- He's got an awful loud voice.
- Oh, he'll shut him up alright.
I'll be in Austin in 30 days.
Will you be there?
Why, Minni. Did you ever know me
not to get some place
where a beautiful woman
is waiting for me?
Oh, damn!
- Well Luther, this is it.
- Yup.
Sure you got everything
straight? It's important.
Nacogdoches's your ranch.
Sid Yoakum Bud Avery.
New Orleans, Louis Mizette.
San Antonio, Henry Gurau.
You got it.
- So long.
- See you in Austin.
'Hey, Burke. You Burke!
Hold up a minute.'
- Well, Mr. Mayhew.
- Thought I'd lost you.
You've been doing
some hard riding.
- I got a long way to go.
- Maybe I can save you the trip.
- Oh?
- Shall we step down?
What's in your mind?
Whatever your deal's with
Jackson, I've a better one.
- You?
- I'm a friend of Tom Craden's.
I thought you were
a friend of Andy Jackson's.
A man can have
more than one friend.
Hold it.
You oughta know I never make
more than one deal at a time.
Tell it to Tom Craden.
Now ride, north.
Well, looks like
warm weather ahead, Dev.
I'll worry about Tom Craden
when I get to Austin.
Right now, I'm headed for Sam
Houston in Comanche country.
- And Indians scare me.
- Well, good luck.
I'll need it.
- You got any more rounds?
- These might be enough.
Nice sh**ting, mister.
You're not doing
so bad yourself.
My name's Tom Craden.
- Craden?
- Yeah, and you're real welcome.
I figured, I might be.
Right after the tough talk then
they'll be back for a sh**t.
What's a man with good sense
doin' in Comanche country?
I was just gonna ask
you the same thing.
I'm looking for a fellow
named Burke. You know him?
Really well, why?
He's riding south tryin'
to stir up annexation trouble.
- And you aim to stop him?
- If I can find him.
- Where'd you say you hail from?
- I didn't say.
I was heading for Austin.
I know the short way in.
Lucky you met me.
Not too lucky. Here they come.
This is the big group.
- Nice knowing you.
- Yeah, real nice.
Hey! Hey, look here, son. Ain't
the street wide enough for you?
Why don't you save your breath,
Windy. Ain't you heard the news?
Jim Folkes' been elected
President of the United States.
- We're going into the union.
- Now you look here, brother.
That's the kind of talk
that's dangerous.
- That's right, Windy. Tell 'em.
- Tell 'em all about us!
Well, come on
over here, neighbors.
I've got a few more
words to say to you.
'Come on, Windy. Give us
some more historical facts.'
- Houston's coming along.
- Yeah.
Say, you done well
up on the Sabine, huh?
You might call it well.
How many head
the last count?
We don't count
our cattle up there.
We could use you down here.
We got big plans for Texas.
- What if she goes to the union?
- She won't.
Sam Houston's against it. So is
our president, Anson Jones.
We don't need Yankee dressmakers
to tell us what to do.
- How do people feel about it?
- The people? What do they know?
Why don't you have supper with
me tonight? We'll talk about it.
I might just do that.
Why, to join the union
would be death.
The citizens of
our Lone Star Republic
will be left to their certain
fate in the w*r that'll follow.
Just as sure
as day follows night.
- w*r with who?
- w*r with Mexico.
- Who said so?
- I said so.
- Ain't I right brother?
- That's Windy. One of our men.
Makes a good speech
when he's sober.
They've already warned us.
Why, they'll send
an army down on us like a..
a-a Duck on a Junebug.
- And I don't blame...
- Wait a minute..
- Well now, don't you shout...
- Alright, get down!
'I'm Luther Kilgore, a Texan.'
And no man frightens me
with a loud talk.
If we have to go to w*r
to join up on our own folks
I say the sooner
the better.
We're raring to go!
You're a liar. We've had
enough fighting and k*lling.
There isn't a family that
didn't lose kin at the Alamo.
And we don't want
it to happen again.
With Mexico waiting to be our
friend, we can live in peace.
M'am if you was a man and wore a
g*n you wouldn't call me a liar.
I'm a man. I wear a g*n,
and I call you a liar.
Ooh...you can sh**t
better than that.
Why k*ll a man
for a mistake in belief?
Tom, told you many times I don't
need you to fight my battles.
- Honey, it's my battle too.
- But you were wrong.
I could've handled him without
any g*n pulling from anybody.
And you too,
you were just as wrong.
I'm sorry. Next time, I'll
let him settle his own fight.
And what makes
you think he can't?
It was a favor.
My horse spooked.
Oh, you're two of a kind!
Windy, go on
with your speech.
Yes ma'am, and I sure
got plenty more to tell 'em.
Come on, neighbors,
follow me. Come on.
- I'd call her a lot of woman.
- She's all of that!
Come on, I'll have
you meet her.
- She runs the Austin Blade.
- A newspaper woman?
Yeah, her father
left it to her.
He was a Texan. So is she.
She's been a lot of help to us.
Excuse me, ma'am. I figured you
was out and needed help.
Maybe, I did.
Anyhow, I'm glad you're back.
- Lot of strangers here now.
- 'Probably, Burke's men.'
You've been tangling
with a Cougar?
No, Comanches. I want you to
meet the man who saved my hair.
- Oh, it's good to know you Mr..
- Bill Jones of Nacogdoches.
I'm Martha Ronda and thanks
for saving Tom's hair.
He looks scandalous
without it.
As a matter of fact, you don't
look too good with it right now.
- Could get a stitch or two.
- Cynthia will fix it.
It'll be sewed up like a new
shirt in no time.
Oh, Mr. Jones is having
supper with us.
Tonight? Have you forgotten
about the Senators?
- No. That's why I want him.
- Oh, hello Tom.
- Oh hello, Josh.
- Seen our new type?
Just got in from Philadelphia.
- I like it better than the old.
- Me too. C'mon, take a look.
Tom seems to have a lot
to say in these parts.
Does the Austin Blade
speak for him too?
I speak for myself,
Mr. Jones.
Oh.
You better have
a doctor look at this.
Is that an order? I don't
wanna make any more mistakes.
- You're making one right now.
- Sorry.
Send copies of last week's
stuff out to the house.
You're busy. What about
tomorrow or Sunday?
I'll expect you at 7.
Don't disappoint us.
- I'm won't. Goodbye.
- Bye.
Bill Jones
of Nacogdoches, huh?
He's a good man.
We can use him.
What makes you so sure,
he's on our side?
Well, I just
took it for granted.
You take great many things
for granted, Tom.
- Someday you may be sorry.
- I doubt it. I really doubt it.
Alright, just a minute,
and I tell you
that anybody that talks
annexation is a traitor!
You'll find a snivelling Yankee
behind all this union talk.
Comes to betray it for just
a few peaches of silver.
Why don't you hush up,
big blabber mouth?
Hah, just folks, we just ain't
gonna pay no attention to her.
'Probably another
Yankee sympathizer.'
But like I was saying folks
if we're going to keep
our independence
we can't get mixed up with
a lot of Northern politics.
Shut up!
Ladies and..
- Serves him right.
- What's that?
- Minni.
- Oh, hello, son.
- What are you up to?
- None of your business.
- Where's Sam Houston?
- Nobody seems to know.
- What happened to you?
- Indians after Craden's scalp.
- And you stopped 'em?
- I helped a little.
- Damn, you're a fool.
- Yes, so I've been told.
- What happened to your pitcher?
- I wanna hear about Houston.
The door's wide open
for Texas to come in.
Without Sam, we haven't got
a prayer. Now, where is he?
I looked in Comanche country,
couldn't find him.
He's probably off living
with some other tribe.
If I didn't know Sam's folks,
I'd say he was half Indian.
He can talk with them,
eat with them, sleep with them.
Will you stop looking
for that fool pitcher?
I flung it out,
you know it.
- Minnie, you're a bad girl.
- Never mind about me.
That man Craden's been ridin'
after you.
- Did you know that?
- Told me so himself.
He'll tell me lot more
tonight at supper, I hope.
Are you insane?
You'll get yourself k*lled.
Oh, no. He might
k*ll that Burke
but he's real friendly
towards Bill Jones.
All this fuss over
a flea bitten rough sprung
Republic that can't...
Careful Minni,
I'm a Texan.
And this flea bitten
Republic of ours
is bigger than dozen of your
United States all put together.
It also grows
some beautiful women.
You get your job done before
you start lollygagging.
I just like to live
a baron's life.
Some of this, some of that.
Any of my men get here?
Some half dozen of 'em.
They're all at the bar.
I never saw
such a conglomerate.
What are you
staring at?
- You been talking to her?
- Mm-hmm.
If she finds out who you are,
she'll k*ll you.
If she doesn't,
her man will.
- Her man?
- Tom Craden.
Oh.
Well, she's still
a lot of woman.
You know how when you rub your
hand over silk, you get a shock
and you see
little sparks?
Well, I figure that's what
would happen if you stroked her.
- Hello, George.
- How are you, Dev?
Feeling better
this side.
- How's Luther?
- Up in bed.
I bet.
Hello Sid.
Well, how's your world,
all the women in it?
The world is wonderful, but
the women are most difficult.
Most particularly, the one from
New Orleans he inherit from you.
- Oh.
- Madame Fifi?
- Oui, most expensive.
- I warned you.
I know. But I'm weak,
and she's beautiful.
Oh, very beautiful.
Uh, this venture,
profitable perhaps?
Where can we talk?
Hello, Luther.
What'd they do to you?
You creased me in the shoulder.
That's what you did.
I'm sorry. You're lucky. Craden
would've put it right here.
Hmm. Fine company
you're keepin'.
What were you doin' ridin'
into town with him?
I'll tell you later. From now
on, no more speeches, hear me?
- Who's this?
- 'My boy, Bud.'
Claims he's in this with us.
- How old are you, Bud?
- 17.
Well, I'm going on 17.
Come 16 week before last.
He wanted in Dev. Shucks,
we wasn't older than him
when we was fighting
Chiricahuas up along the Llano.
- The Chiricahuas were easy.
- What's this all about?
Well boys, we're gonna put
Texas into the union.
- Why?
- Because annexation means w*r.
- And w*r means...
- I'm not interested in w*r.
Unless, it's for others.
- $5000 is a lot of money.
- $5000 a piece?
- $5000. There shall be w*r.
- Yes.
- Interested, Gurau?
- Oh, in money always.
- What must I do?
- You'll get your assignment.
Sid, you and Luther'll
work with me out of Austin.
For 5000, save your money. We'll
work for annexation for free.
- We believe in it.
- Yeah. So does, Luther.
He found out it hurts.
- I don't want your money, Dev.
- Then, bow out.
I don't want anybody riding the
glory road, they're dangerous.
You're right. I learned that
about you at Santa Ana
when you were ridin'
the glory road.
- Fighting for money there...
- That was 10 years ago.
Now, do as I tell you.
Nobody leaves the hotel tonight.
We'll work out details tomorrow.
Details, they are unimportant.
$5000 is most important.
- Oh. Hey, my clothes get here?
- Yup, upstairs. Show him, Bud
I got an engagement
tonight, business.
- C'mon, Sid.
- Au revoir.
May she be as beautiful
as Fi-fi?
Oh, but not so expensive.
- Welcome, from my master.
- Gracias, amigo.
Senor Craden awaits
you in the great hall.
Gracias, Senor.
Good evening.
Ms. Rhonda.
Mr. Jones. I hardly
recognized you.
Shave and a change of clothes
makes a big difference.
- It does?
- Yes, is the name still same?
Isn't Jones a good name?
Yes, but somehow it doesn't
quite fit you.
I bow to
a woman's intuition.
They're waiting
for you.
'Almost too much
for one man, Tom.'
- Excuse me. Hello, Jones.
- Craden. Nice to see you.
Gentlemen, may I present
Mr. Jones of the Sabine.
- Hello, Tom. Sorry, I'm late.
- It's quite alright. Come in.
- Ms. Ronda.
- Good evening.
- Gentlemen.
- Hello.
Jones, this is Senator Demmet.
- Howdy, sir?
- Demmet, sir.
He's senior government member.
Seldom agrees with me.
Certainly not about this
business of annexation.
- Please, don't use that word.
- What's wrong with it?
To me, it's just another word
for treason.
That's a harsh word, Tom.
I've been called many things,
but never a traitor.
No. No one could ever
call you that, sir.
You favor our joining
the State, Senator?
- 'I do.'
- What do we have to gain?
I've heard the argument.
Seems to me that...
Perhaps, you haven't heard
our side of it properly, sir.
Look like Texas
is caught in the middle...
Surely, Mr. Jones is interested
more in food than politics.
So, with your kind permission,
I'll rescue him.
Unless of course, you'd rather
not be rescued.
Please.
Guess, Mr. Jones is getting
the best part of the deal.
- No doubt.
- I agree.
Nobody should have any trouble
choosing Ms. Ronda
'in a bunch of old politicians.'
'Speak for yourself, sir.'
First, the man rides into town
and sh**t the opposition.
Then, he takes on their leader.
Haven't you heard
of discretion, Mr. Jones?
Oh, often.
But I don't approve of it.
- Do you?
- Yes, completely.
Oh, you mean,
political discretion?
I mean, any kind.
Demmet and the others
favor annexation, don't they?
- Yes.
- Then, why are they here?
We hope to change their minds.
- Senorita?
- Si.
That jackass is trying
to tell me how to cook the meat.
- Si, senorita.
- Gracias, senorita.
They'll be quiet.
You know, there're really
the best of friends.
Although, they fight
most of the time.
Well, that's the privilege
of friendship.
How long do you expect
to stay in Austin, Mr. Jones?
A week, a month.
Haven't given it much thought.
- I imagine your family has.
- I don't have a wife.
- If that's what you're asking.
- I wasn't.
But now, that you've mentioned
it, why don't you have a wife?
- No woman ever said, "Yes."
- How many have you asked?
None.
Do we have to rush back?
I'm only half rescued.
Discretion. I believe in it.
Remember?
Is that honesty or modesty?
Conversation.
- Why haven't you?
- Why haven't I what?
- Asked a woman to marry you?
- Oh, that.
Perhaps, I was travelling
too fast.
- Oh.
- Today, I started to slow down.
That's a beautiful song.
Won't you sing it again?
♪ Moonlight was meant
for lovers ♪
♪ Breezes were meant to sigh ♪
♪ To sigh for unhappy lovers ♪
♪ Lovers were meant to cry ♪
♪ Love like a cold December ♪
♪ Chills when the amber's die ♪
♪ Be careful my heart remember ♪
♪ Lovers were meant to cry ♪
I'm afraid, I'm being rude
to our guests.
And very difficult
to one of them.
Now, we're both being rude.
You know all about me,
and I know nothing about you.
Are you sure, I know
all about you...Mr. Jones?
What's this tone?
Gentlemen, what I've to say
is in strictest confidence.
I hope, that you'll be
as convinced as I am.
If Texas is to realize destiny,
there's only one way to it.
First, you should know
that in return for a guarantee
that there will be
no annexation.
Mexico has promised everything
North of the Rio Grande
and all the lands of California.
- Wha-what's this?
- When did this happen?
Secondly, we know, the question
of sl*very will split the union.
'And gentlemen,
the Southern states'
'will not only comply,
but be happy to join.'
- That's a broad statement.
- How can you be sure?
When that time comes..
this will represent your
Republic of Texas and this..
this will be all that's left
of your so called United States.
This is fantastic.
Are the British and French
aware of this?
They are. We'll make treaties
to that effect.
For what do the British
speak for the people of Texas?
Captain Elliott's gonna act
as emissary with
President Jones's approval.
- I've heard of it.
- I don't like it.
- Neither do I.
- I've no part of it.
The foreigners want us out of
the union to prevent growth.
And to keep Texas
under their influence.
- Their motives don't worry me.
- Well, I am worried.
So am I. And I'll fight that
treaty on the senate floor.
And when I've beaten it,
I'll vote for annexation.
Gentlemen, gentlemen,
can't you see what this means?
We'll be the giant of the
Western hemisphere.
As State, we'll be one of 28.
As Republic, we'll have respect
of not only the United States,
but the entire world.
Why should we give up
an empire just for Statehood?
What is your opinion, Mr. Jones?
Well, I, uh, I know
very little of politics, uh..
but, uh..
we, uh, Texans have a toast,
which is 10 years old.
To Sam Houston,
the father of our Republic.
May his road always be ours.
- Won't you join us, gentleman?
- I'm afraid not.
If Sam moves against annexation,
he goes without me.
If he does? He last spoke
against it, senator.
Sam was angry when he spoke.
Or perhaps, had another reason.
If there's doubt, shouldn't we
find Houston to verify that?
Yes. We should send for him.
He should've 10 treaties worked
out with all the Apaches by now.
The Mescalero Apaches?
'That's not public knowledge'
'and it won't till
he gets back to Austin.'
Personally, I think,
he just wanted to keep out
of discussions like this,
and so do I.
I've enjoyed your meal, Tom,
but I can't go along.
Will you ask Mizette
to bring up my horse?
That won't be necessary.
Knowing your sentiments,
I invited you here, tonight
in the hope I could persuade you
to reason. I failed.
The senate will be called to
session to ratify the treaty.
You gentlemen, will remain
as my guest until the question
is being voted upon.
- Tom, I want us to win, but...
- There's no other way.
So, if I want to leave,
you'll keep me here by force?
- My men will.
- I want personal satisfaction.
- Count me in on that.
- Why, certainly.
At your convenience, gentlemen.
Which is immediately.
You have pistols, I presume.
I have.
I'll join you in the portico.
- This is crazy. What if...
- Don't worry.
- Will you serve as my second?
- If you wish.
Frankly, I won't enjoy it.
Each of those men,
is 60 or better.
Each has k*lled his man
the past year.
Serving in our Texas senate
keeps their hands in.
But I'm glad,
you're not a senator.
- The usual rule, sir?
- I don't care.
As long as I get a sh*t at him.
- You may not, being last.
- Well, I may be lucky.
The man's a scoundrel,
but he's an excellent sh*t.
So I learn.
Gentlemen.
Gentlemen, you will
pace of 10 steps.
At the word, you will fire.
Is that understood?
Take your places.
Ready?
One.
Two.
Three.
Four.
'Five.
Six.'
Seven.
Eight.
Nine.
Fire!
A million in one,
and he made it.
It's a habit of his.
Why didn't you fire at me?
I certainly tried to k*ll you.
And came close enough.
Ah! I've never heard of such
ungentlemanly conduct.
- Give me my coat.
- 'Senator Crockett.'
You're next, unless Senator
Demmet wants another sh*t.
Why all these heroics, Tom?
- You'll hold your fire with me?
- Why not?
There's no reason to k*ll a man
for a mistaken belief.
'I'm darn better than Demmet.'
But I'll be hanged if I'll sh**t
at a man who won't sh**t back.
- Nor will I.
- Then, remain here as my guest.
- If so, I'll send my men.
- 'I will not.'
Three more drinks
and I'll fight my way out.
- So will I.
- We all will.
You're a fool, Tom.
A fool with courage.
- But let's have some whisky.
- Good idea.
- An excellent idea.
- Some of my best whisky.
After you, gentlemen.
Here you are. I don't plan
to fight my way out of here.
Thank you.
Tom.
We'd better do something
about this.
You better let me
cool them off first.
Whatever you hear for the
next few minutes won't count.
Would you both excuse me?
One last glass of wine
and dinner
and Demmet would've
k*lled your man.
My man?
Isn't he?
Why, I never thought of it
quite that way.
He has.
Yes, I suppose, he has.
Since I've been running the
paper, we been together a lot.
Fighting for the same things.
He takes it for granted,
that someday, we'll marry and...
Takes you for granted?
- Does that surprise you?
- No.
I suppose, he knows what
he's doing. I envy him.
Why?
It's convenient to have a woman
you can take for granted.
Not very exciting,
but convenient.
I've never been that lucky.
But you want that sort of woman?
Frankly, no.
And I'll tell you
something else.
I don't think
you are that sort of woman.
Are you?
Are you?
Am I?
Come here.
Now, tell me,
who are you?
A man who loves you.
You lied when
you gave me your name.
I'm not lying now.
If you don't mind,
I'll be leaving.
It's just that I rather not
drink Tom Craden's wine tonight.
The next time, I see him,
I'll tell him why.
I'll tell him.
I wouldn't, if I were you.
I doubt, if he'd understand.
Then, Craden asked the senators
to promise they wouldn't leave.
They all went inside except,
Ms. Ronda and myself and, uh..
Well, that just about covers it.
You left out one detail.
You didn't tell me
you were in love.
Why do you say that?
Had a milk cow once.
Each time she went dry,
she looked like you do, now.
That was love.
Well, I suppose, I am.
She know who we are?
What you're here for?
- No.
- Son, you're in a mess.
We need those senators,
or did she change your mind
about that deal you made
with that Andy Jackson?
- Not in so many words.
- What kinda answer is that?
Well, put it this way.
I have a wandering foot.
This is the first time,
I ever wanted a woman.
- What?
- Hear me out.
This is the first time I ever
wanted a woman to be my wife.
And you're going to have her?
In spite of your word
and your belief...
I have no belief.
With Annexation of Texas.
Anyway, the cat jumps.
I'll take care of me.
Been fighting for money
for a decade.
To me this is just another deal.
- She isn't just another woman.
- She certainly isn't.
One kiss or maybe it was two,
and you're ready to turn
your coat to whichever side
pleases her the most.
Do you think your kisses
meant the same to her?
- It might be.
- 'Don't be a fool, Dev.'
Her men folks d*ed for Texas.
The woman's a patriot.
She doesn't fight for money.
Tell her what you're doing
and she'll never
look at you again.
We'll see about that.
- Where you going?
- To get your senators.
And keep Minniver,
until I find Sam Houston.
Mind you. Don't get hurt.
Pay off and find your hats.
- We're moving.
- Me, with Kings back to back?
Save your money.
Mizette's got aces.
- How'd you know?
- You had 'em in New Orleans.
Figured you brought
them with you.
Seth, you bring your rope?
Yeah, if I'm gonna hang,
I wanna be comfortable.
You'll be comfortable.
- Where are you going?
- With you.
- Oh, no.
- Oh, this arm don't bother me.
Me and old Sam fought a hundred
Comanches once with no arms.
Fought 'em with our bare teeth.
What teeth?
Tie him off.
I can handle it from here.
- Won't you need an extra g*n?
- No.
Not for you, fat one.
Don't press me.
The fate of our Nation must not
be banded over empty glasses.
- Let me fill yours, Senator.
- 'That won't be necessary.'
I'm sure, you gentlemen, would
rather make your decisions
in the Hall of Congress.
Martha told me you'd gone.
She didn't say you'd be back.
- I'm not here as a guest.
- So, I see.
I seldom carry a g*n at home.
However, if I offended you..
Vicente and your men
are tied at the gates.
I've come to send
your guests home.
You're free to leave, gentlemen.
- I don't quite understand.
- 'Let's put it this way.'
Like you, I'm for annexation.
- Your horses are in the corral.
- Don't know that I want to.
If you people
go about it this way.
No wonder
Houston's against annexation.
He won't be when I see him.
I carry a letter
from Andrew Jackson to Houston
guaranteeing that
the United States
will welcome Texas
into the union.
- Does he promise troops at w*r?
- 'He does.'
In that case, I'll go.
Frankly, I was fixing a fight
out of here in about 10 minutes.
- And I'm with you.
- Glad this man helped.
Come along.
'Just a minute.'
You don't look like a liar.
- What lies have I told you?
- In words, none.
You made me believe a lie,
and proved me a fool.
You're not alone, Tom.
Mr. Jones is very adept
at proving people fools.
You're very clever, Mr. Jones.
- 'Very clever.'
- The name is Burke.
I just about figured that out.
What happened, Martha?
I kissed her
and told her I loved her.
Would you say that
if Tom had a g*n?
- 'I would.'
- Then, let me get one for him.
He'll be faster than me.
Can't afford to die, tonight.
You'd be smart
if you k*lled me, right now.
I'd rather not.
I should tie you off.
Both of you.
I'll take your word that you
won't follow me, until morning.
You have it.
Now, get out!
I'm sorry, Tom.
You can't explain things
like this.
- I saw him, something happen...
- Don't make excuses. It's done.
All we have to worry about
is what he'll do next.
He'll go to Houston, of course.
With Jackson's guarantee
from the Union.
If I'd follow him, the only way
I can stop him is with a b*llet.
If you follow him?
That's for you to decide.
It's morning.
It's morning, Buster.
I forgot, it comes
just after midnight.
Hold. Hold up.
There he is.
Use your r*fle.
He's already crossed.
You men, wait here.
I'll ride in alone.
These Apaches aren't friendly.
I don't want them to think
this is a w*r party.
I come to speak with Houston.
The Raven.
Burke.
Dev Burke.
You've come all the way
from Nacogdoches.
All the way from
Niceville, General.
Well, it's good to see you.
Well, these are my friends.
Chiefs of the Apache Nation.
Who've asked me to settle
their boundary disputes.
'Burke.'
Well, Dev, what brings you here?
From Andrew Jackson.
I was with him when he wrote it.
Well, did he speak of me
with kindness?
Well, he was bewildered.
Your speech against annexation.
- Well, Andy believes that?
- So does all of Texas.
- Your own words made it clear.
- My words were for fools.
Three times Texas has stood
like a bride at the altar.
And three times
she's been denied.
Well, there is
a thing called pride.
And we Texans
have our full measure.
I understand that. What about
the treaty with Mexico?
No, that.
That was to build fear in those
who barred the gates to us.
Those idiots in Washington,
who've set their hands
against us just because
of our slaves.
I had to get some action
out of them. And I did.
It was a trick
I learned from Andy himself.
I thought he'd understand.
You'll speak out again for
annexation at the right time?
Yes, I will.
And this letter assures me
that it won't be too long.
So, you could put
Andy's mind at rest.
Tell him the man who fought
beside him against the British..
still stands at his side.
And tell him Sam Houston has
betrayed the people of Texas.
'Tom Craden.'
What brings you here
beyond the Pecos?
I was chasing a renegade,
instead, I find two.
- I don't like the word.
- You're wearing a g*n?
You fools! This valley is sacred
to the councils of peace.
If you'd drawn..
even I couldn't
have helped you.
Well, Tom.
So, you've called us renegades?
- Have you anything more to say?
- What else is there?
You let us to believe
in the Republic
and you're playing
a game of politics.
'Sometimes that's necessary.'
I've done what
I consider best for Texas.
For us to stand alone
would be to invite destruction.
- But as a state in the union...
- A state in the union.
One voice and the Congress
are pot menders?
Our laws made by people
who hate us?
A beggar standing hat
in a hand before his master?
Is that what bothers you, Tom?
That Texas might
become less important
'or that you might?'
I know you.
You want to make
a big name for yourself.
Become the next
president of Texas.
'But you're not going to
sacrifice the welfare of others'
for your own
personal ambition.
There are many people
who'll agree with this man.
President Jones is one of them.
Anson Jones will do
what I tell him.
When word comes from the North
that they've voted to accept us
I'll talk with Jones.
Until then..
these are my friends,
who need my help.
But what if the Texas senate
should meet immediately?
The treaty with Mexico may be
signed before you return.
Not if I tell them to wait.
Geronimo, my saddle bag.
I have your permission
to leave?
Well, there's rain
in the hills.
You may share my quarters if you
care to ride out in the morning.
I'll ride tonight.
I'll give you a letter
to President Jones.
He will delay any legislation
until I get there.
- Will you make camp with us?
- I think not, sir.
Everyone seems to be
in a hurry tonight.
Very well,
I won't be long.
Mangus Colorado tells me,
if I turn you and Craden loose
on the same trail,
there might be trouble.
And he's right.
Geronimo, I want you
to take my friend
along the high
trail to the Pecos.
- Good luck, Dev.
- Thank you, sir.
And/Ends Godspeed.
When I become chief,
I will own such a g*n.
Isn't Takashim your father?
The son of a wizard becomes
a medicine man not a chief.
I'll become chief.
They said they
caught us merry over here.
If Burke tries to cross,
k*ll him.
What if he crosses
at the shallow?
I'll be there with Alfredo.
Come on.
I'll leave you now.
Your way is there.
Thanks, Geronimo.
Tell your father
he's bred a warrior
that will someday be chief.
There.
He's down.
Keep your eyes open.
He's a smart one.
'I think we k*lled him.'
'He's alive.'
'sh**t him.'
'sh**t, sh**t.
Go on, sh**t.'
'I don't want any favors
from you. sh**t.'
Come on, boy. Up.
Come on, come on.
'One moment,
I'm comin'.'
I want to see Miss Ronda.
She's asleep, senor.
Come tomorrow.
No, no, tonight. Now.
Well, please, senor.
She's asleep.
'Who is it?'
A gentleman. He says
he wants to see you.
It's alright.
Where's Tom?
What have you done to him?
You've k*lled him,
haven't you? Haven't you?
Isn't that what he
meant to do to me?
Alright, he's alive.
I had a chance
to k*ll him but didn't.
You wanna know why I didn't?
As long as Tom's alive,
I don't care why.
Thanks for telling me.
That's what I wanted to know.
'Dev, wait.'
I do wanna know why.
You already know, you just wanna
hear me say it, don't you?
It was because of you.
If I k*ll him,
you'd never forgive me
even though you love me.
You're so positive, aren't you?
So very positive.
Yes, I am, about
a lot of things now.
You and Craden and Texas.
You think you're
both on the same side
fighting for the same thing.
But you've got
a surprise coming.
Craden's riding the glory road.
Wants to be the next
president of Texas.
I don't believe that.
Tom wants the same things I do.
A free land where people
can live in peace and be happy.
And if someday he's elected
president, I'll be proud of him.
And Texas will be lucky
because he's a great man.
Then you'll be
the great man's wife.
Maybe, I will.
And maybe, that's what
you're really interested in.
Tell me something.
If you ask Craden to give up his
fight against annexation for you
what would his answer be?
No. Of course, it'll be no.
Now, here's a letter
from Sam Houston
I talked to him
a few days ago.
He's in favor
of joining the union.
Craden was there
and heard him.
If I deliver this letter
to Anson Jones
the way will be cleared
to certain annexation.
Tear it up if you want.
Throw out in the fire.
You see, Martha, you do love me.
That's why you wouldn't
ask me to give up
what I'm fighting for
Dev...
Why pretend the truth
isn't the truth?
I've known ever since
that night in the patio.
You'll never kiss
another man like that.
Some women might.
But not you.
- Good morning, Josh.
- Mornin'. Mornin'
Say you, you've been eating
bird sh*t or somethin'?
Josh, you know
it just came over me.
You're a great newspaperman,
yet you've never had a scoop.
Well, what a scoop?
Why there ain't another
newspaper within 300 miles.
- You've made up the front page?
- Oh, you betcha.
And I saved two columns
for that Mexican treaty story.
That's just the point, Josh.
There isn't gonna be any treaty.
No.
And I think Houston's
coming out for annexation.
Why, that is terrible.
I'm not so sure anymore.
Say, are-are you sure
you're feeling alright?
You know, a powerful
lot this mornin'.
- Oh, I feel fine.
- Well, then tell me somethin'.
How will I fill the front page
without the treaty story?
You take any of these
Washington dispatches.
- What's that?
- Ah, here's one.
Got a big scandal up there.
"They claim that Pope played
favorites in awarding
a huge Army beef contract to a
North Texas cattleman named.."
Well, what's the matter?
Ain't that big enough
for the front page?
It's just big enough.
Just hold the space.
- Good morning, Miss Ronda.
- Morning, Ben.
- Is the President in?
- Yes, ma'am.
- I believe, he's expecting you.
- Thank you, Ben.
Oh, excuse me, Mr. President.
Good morning, ma'am.
Come in. Come in.
You're about to witness a
historic moment in our Republic.
I know you'll handle it
properly in your paper.
You know Captain Elliott
of the British Embassy.
- Captain.
- Miss Ronda.
Sign the treaty, Mr. Secretary.
Pending of course, to the
approval of the Congress.
You're going to do this
in spite of Houston?
Houston?
Oh, didn't Mr. Burke
give you his letter?
Letter? What letter?
Just a moment, Ashbel.
Are you gonna
let one man's opinion
spell the difference
between peace and w*r?
If that man
is Houston, yes.
A man named Burke,
here to see you, sir.
Says he has a message
from Sam Houston.
- 'Show him in.'
- Yes, sir.
President.
Hello, Miss Ronda.
You have a message
from General Houston?
I have.
- Where is he?
- Beyond the Pecos River.
Making a treaty
for the Apache nation.
You call this a message?
Well, it was one
when I started.
There was trouble
at the Pecos.
The water must've
washed the words away.
And what was the message
supposed to say?
It asked that legislation
to be held over
until Houston arrives to speak
in Congress against the treaty.
Against? It was him who proposed
this treaty with Mexico.
That was for reasons
of strategy.
Mr. Houston is for annexation
and always has been.
You say he's with the Apaches?
When will he arrive in Austin?
Three weeks, a month.
But, Mr. President,
you can't wait that long.
Haven't I impressed upon you the
value of time in this matter?
I'd wanna know if this
man's telling the truth.
To sign these paper
is one thing.
But to call Congress together
for it's ratification that
defiles a Sam Houston
may bring a thousand men,
storming into Austin.
Not signing it will
bring five times that many
across the Rio Grande.
I'm sure Mr. Burke knows
that this means w*r.
- Immediate w*r with Mexico.
- I do.
And how will we fight that w*r?
With what troops?
- With troops from the States.
- And how will we feed them?
On beef I suppose. We've plenty
of it here in Texas.
On your beef? The beef
you'll sell to the army?
Mr. President,
this man is a liar.
A cheap adventurer
hired by Andrew Jackson
who'd profit by
the death of Texas.
What do you say to this?
Does this mean that you
won't wait for Houston?
It does.
I bid you good day, sir.
Sign the treaty, Mr. Smith.
Issue a call for Congress
to meet in a special session
for it's immediate ratification.
Yes, sir.
Is this for publication,
Mr. President?
- It is.
- Thank you, sir.
'My congratulations,
Mr. President.'
Just a minute.
This horse belongs to Craden.
Give it back to him.
And give him back
his woman, too.
We can't just
sit here and do nothing.
We've gotta put up
some kind of a fight.
Why don't we tell Andy Jackson.
This will k*ll him.
Gentlemen.
You too, Minni.
You've been talking for an hour
and none has an answer.
You know why?
Because there isn't any.
Why don't you have
one more try at Jones?
And be reminded again
that I'm a scoundrel.
- No, thanks.
- Ain't there no way?
We ain't short on men
who are willing.
But we're short on miracles.
That's what it'd take
to change things now.
A smart man knows
when he's whipped.
'Dev. Dev.'
Martha rounded them.
Folks going crazy out there on
the street. Everything bust.
Martha rounded on it
all by herself, she did.
She did, what?
She printed things about old Sam
coming out for annexation.
Here, here it is.
Here, look at it.
- Let me see that.
- For annexation?
'There's your miracle,
Mr. Burke.'
Let Jones have
his session now.
- Tom admitted all these?
- He did, sir.
- And the trouble at the Pecos?
- Yes, sir.
Burke was speaking the truth.
And there speaks the voice
of the Republic, Mr. President.
We can't fail them now.
Well, so be it.
Oh.
Well, Mr. Burke.
I owe you an apology, son.
- We've done you injustice.
- Well, sir...
You must admit my mistake
was an honest one.
- Yes, sir.
- Thank you, sir. Good day.
I suppose, I ought
to thank you.
For what?
For printing the truth?
What changed your
mind about me?
I found out that, what you told
President Jones was true.
But I haven't changed
my mind about you.
Oh!
It's hard to believe that a man
like you could be bought.
That's in your mind,
I won't try to change it.
I'm going home tomorrow,
my business is finished here.
I don't like leaving
a quarrel between us.
No quarrel, Dev.
Just disappointment.
You're a strange woman.
- Am I?
- Yeah.
But still, a lot of woman.
We can't fail. We'll push the
treaty on the first ballot.
Then build our empire. We'll
have our own army and navy...
Craden. Have you seen this?
- "Houston favors annexation."
- What's that?
Austin's been turned
into a mad house.
They're howling in the streets
like an insane mob.
And all because of your
friend, Miss Ronda.
How dare she prints such a lie?
- Unfortunately, it's not a lie.
- But, Sam...
I warned you about Houston.
He misled us from the beginning.
Forget Houston. Send him in
swings one way and another.
They'll howl themselves
and do as they're told.
But Congress meets tomorrow.
They'll k*ll the treaty.
They'll vote annexation.
There'll be no vote.
Until sentiment changes,
Congress won't meet.
How will you stop?
With g*ns.
Send the men. Tell my friends I
need 'em here tomorrow morning.
Si, senor.
Come in the house, gentlemen.
Hold that, son.
Burke, my boy.
I'm glad I caught you.
We're in trouble. Big trouble.
Tom Craden's gone crazy.
He's organized an army
to stop Congress from voting.
And he can do it too, son.
Aren't there men in Austin
who'll stand up against him?
- Against Craden?
- We'll be outgunned.
That's why you've got
to take charge.
Without you, our boys will
scatter at the first sh*t.
- Just a minute.
- You got to stay, Dev.
- How many men can you raise?
- Well, 10, 20.
- You Senator Crockett?
- The same.
I can raise me.
Well, boys, what do you think?
- You can count on me and Bud.
- I'm with you, Dev.
And don't forget me.
Mizette?
My friend, you're insane.
This is madness.
If Mr. Craden does not k*ll you,
the Mexicans will and for what?
Didn't ask you that.
Can I deal you in?
One man against twenty.
Only a fool would try
against such odds.
- Am I fool?
- Yes.
I am a fool.
You have comedy.
But I'm warning you, if we lose,
we'll be considered traitors.
Craden and his men
will hang the lot of us.
I do not like your friend,
Monsieur Craden.
- I will stay.
- So will I.
We'll all stay.
Alright, send out for your men.
Mr. Burke,
I thought you said
"A smart man knows
when he's whipped."
Who says I'm smart?
Make this, boys.
Keep throwing it in.
Keep this place clear in here.
We got some more
senators to come in.
It's unlikely they'll
come through here
'but we've gotta be covered.'
- It's about time.
- Howdy, Claud.
- Hiya, Jim.
- Howdy, Claud.
Got here soon as we could.
Been riding all night.
Glad you could make it.
We need every man.
- I hear there'll be trouble.
- Never can tell.
That's what I figured.
Old Betsy's hankering.
- Fine. Fine.
- 'Senator Demmet.'
These the men
you've been waiting?
- Last of them.
- I'll hitch your horses.
Leave your rig there.
We'll use it as barricade.
- You heard what he said.
- Yes, sir.
Gentlemen, this is Dev Burke,
a Texan. He's in-charge here.
- How do you do?
- What do you want us to do?
- I think you men go inside.
- Let you do the fighting?
- That ain't fair.
- That's what we're here for.
- You'll need our gunsmen.
- Right now, we need your votes.
We might as well go in
and get it over with.
Gentlemen, gentlemen!
President Jones is ready
to convene Congress.
He asks that you
take your seats.
Come along, gentlemen, please.
That ought to be enough.
Alright, get your g*n.
I'll check on the men inside.
I guess it's my turn
to thank you, Dev.
'For what?'
You were on your way home.
Well, I missed a stake.
Besides, if I stay around,
I might still make a deal.
You don't fool me.
There's enough money in the
world to make a man do this.
They're comin'.
They're comin'.
Craden and his men,
they're coming. Take cover.
They're coming. They're coming,
Mr. Burke. The whole army.
We'll dust off
the welcome mat for 'em.
- These all the men we got?
- They'll do.
It's a good thing,
I got an extra g*n.
- You better go.
- Perhaps if I talk to Tom.
It won't help. You know that as
well as I do. He won't listen
But, Dev..
You go find a place now
where you'll be safe.
Minni.
Mind you, don't get hurt.
I repeat, that due
to the circumstances
I consider it my duty
to present you with
the terms of the Mexican treaty.
Secretary Smith,
will you proceed?
"Be it known that the following
conditions shall bind
"the Republic of Mexico
and the Republic of Texas to it.
Article one."
Alright, boys.
Now, listen to me.
I don't want Craden to know
how many men we've got.
Luther, take these men here and
go inside. You'll be in-charge.
- I wanna stay out with you.
- Are you gonna gimme trouble?
Do as I tell you.
Take Bud here with you.
They're comin'.
Here they come.
Alright, everybody,
get to the stockade.
Alright, fellas,
in your places.
Looks like they're
expecting us.
- Where are they?
- I'll find out.
You men, stay here.
Interesting, no?
Do you think
they are angry?
One might say so.
And one might be right.
Hold your fire.
What are you doin' here, Burke?
There's no profit
in this, you know.
And you're the fools.
What are you getting out of it?
You have members of Congress
in your outfit?
'I do.'
The president want
them to take their places.
If they don't?
Then legislation will
proceed without them.
I doubt it.
How could you get mixed up
in a mess like this?
Politics isn't for
pretty girls like you.
It's for old
battle-axes like me.
They're only a handful.
Let's rush 'em.
Get all those barricades and get
at those gates. Let's go!
So glad we're sh**t'.
I'm back in shape again.
Darn.
Ripped again in
the same damn spot.
This ain't gonna
stop you, Mr. Kilgore.
Remember them hundred Comanches
you fought with your bare teeth?
What teeth?
I'm against this treaty
and always have been.
I move we adjourn.
Sit down, you're out of order.
They've cuttin' storm first,
Tom.
They got more g*ns
than you reckon.
Ride out, men.
Ride out!
Out!
Good sh**ting, fellas.
That will hold them for a while.
Now let's rebuild
this barricade.
'"Article 14, the Republic
agrees and covenants.."'
I think your friend Craden
is planning some kinda surprise.
Yeah.
Take it on the run and cut
loose in time to get away.
When that hole opens up,
ram those gates.
Take it away!
Inside, everybody!
Get the timbers
and raise that gate.
This is most discouraging.
- Think Texas is worth all this?
- I hope so. It better be.
This time we carry the gates.
k*ll every men who gets
in your way. Let's go!
"Article 27..."
That can't have more articles
than a country store.
- I move the treaty be rejected.
- And I second the motion.
Go on, Secretary Smith.
Why are we sitting here when
there are traitors to be k*lled?
I move we go outside.
Have some exercise.
If you love Texas,
follow me.
"Article 27.."
It's Houston!
'Sam Houston.'
'Sam Huston's here.'
Hold your fire.
Hold your fire!
- Are you responsible for this?
- I am.
He was trying to stop
us from voting, Sam.
He'd have done it too,
if it hadn't been for this man.
Geronimo told me you're
troubled at the Pecos.
I came as soon as I could.
It's lucky you did, sir.
By what right do you interfere
with the work of Congress, Tom?
This is still a Republic.
'No person has the right
to put his interest'
above that of the people.
You're guilty of treason.
And you're guilty
of selling us out.
Let them fight it out.
They'll be no good for Texas
themselves, until they do.
Come away, child.
We don't want to see this.
This is for the favor
at the river.
Come on, you bull headed.
Ah!
Pick him up.
'Let that be an end to it.'
And an end to
Texan fighting Texan.
The Mexican Army stands
ready to march against us.
The moment we
vote for annexation
But don't let that alarm you.
Zach Taylor,
will be at the Red River
with troops from The States.
Waiting to help us.
Alright, you Texans.
The enemy's on our border.
Who's riding South?
Oh, Dev-Dev.
I was so afraid.
Are you going South,
with the others?
Would you expect me not to?
No.
You know,
you're a strange man?
But quite a lot of man.
Hey, Dev!
We're riding out,
you coming with us?
Mizette, give the flag to a man,
who is big enough to carry it.
Lone Star (1952)
Moderator: Maskath3