
Alabama Public Television Presents
Fire over England
Special | 1h 29m 5sVideo has Closed Captions
A tale of love between ambulance driver Lt. Henry and Nurse Catherine Barkley during World War I.
A tale of the love between ambulance driver Lt. Henry and Nurse Catherine Barkley during World War I. The action takes place in Italy and the two fall in love during the war and will stop at nothing to be together. The film also analyses Lt. Henry's feelings on war and the purpose of fighting.
Alabama Public Television Presents is a local public television program presented by APT
Alabama Public Television Presents
Fire over England
Special | 1h 29m 5sVideo has Closed Captions
A tale of the love between ambulance driver Lt. Henry and Nurse Catherine Barkley during World War I. The action takes place in Italy and the two fall in love during the war and will stop at nothing to be together. The film also analyses Lt. Henry's feelings on war and the purpose of fighting.
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Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship(dramatic music) (film clicking) (bells ringing) (dramatic music) (suspenseful music) (dramatic music) (dramatic music) (triumphant music) (dramatic music) (triumphant music) (bright lively music) >> Here comes Leicester.
>> Shall I try?
My Lord Leicester.
>> Later.
>> May I not present my friend, Hillary Vane.
>> Later.
>> Later, my Lord, may be too late.
>> Burleigh: Mistress Cynthia, what have you lost?
>> A pearl from the Queen's dress.
>> Not here.
>> I heard the Queen owns 3,000 dresses.
>> Yes, sir, but she wants to wear the dress with the pearls.
>> I say again, my lord treasurer, that we neglect the Queen's safety.
There are plotters abroad.
Even now, as I came down the gallery, I saw faces better viewed behind prison bars.
>> Spare the sprat and catch the whale.
>> Your pardon, Grandfather.
Your pardon, my Lord.
>> Me and the Earl of Leicester are in private converse, Cynthia.
What is the matter?
>> The Queen is furious and it's all because the Spanish ambassador is kept waiting.
Yet there she stands in her petticoat and will only wear the French dress.
>> Well why not let her wear the French dress, Mistress Cynthia?
>> A pearl is lost from the back.
>> From the back?
Well, then she won't miss it.
>> No, my Lord, she has eyes in the back of her head.
>> Here, take it and be off.
>> Oh!
Everybody should always come to you come first!
>> I wish everybody thought so.
(door thudding) >> If Drake had thought of coming to you first, should we be rejoicing at the good news?
>> You can not mean Drake's raid on Cadiz.
>> I do mean Drake's raid on Cadiz.
>> My Lord Leicester, see, here lies England.
But half an island.
Not 300 miles long, nor 200 miles broad.
How small we are.
How wretched and defenseless.
Now turn to Spain.
In the Old World and the New.
In the Old, power.
In the New, gold.
Philip could build 10 such fleets as Drake burned and never feel the cost.
But if Spain sails across the bay to us, and burns our shipping, how should we make it good?
>> You are the Lord Treasurer of England.
>> And my treasury is empty.
>> My Lords, the Queen is entering the throne room.
(majestic music) >> My Lord, I lean only on my friends.
>> Hillary: The lean on!
(dramatic music) (suspenseful music) (majestic music) (gentle music) >> Your Majesty breaks faith with Spain.
>> Ambassador, you forget yourself!
>> Elizabeth: My Lord Leicester, it is you who forget yourself.
The Spanish Ambassador is our guest.
>> Your Grace, we speak for England.
>> Indeed Your Grace, we do.
>> Who dares to speak for England in my presence?
Answer my Lord Leicester, do you?
And you, my wise Burleigh, do you?
Be silent then whilst I speak for you all.
For I am, England.
>> Ambassador: And I am the voice of Spain.
>> Continue, voice of Spain.
>> My master, His Majesty King Philip.
>> Oh, he introduces me to my own brother-in-law.
Reassure your master.
My sister Mary, the late Queen, was his loving wife and for her sake I am his loving sister.
His portrait still hangs in a place of honor.
>> My King doesn't ask Your Grace to hang his picture.
But to hang his enemies.
In the last month, English pirates have destroyed some 7,000 tons of our shipping.
>> Names?
>> What do I know of their names?
They come and go like wasps, led always by the arch-pirate El Draco.
>> Drake!
(people murmuring) >> Sir Francis Drake sailed around the world and I knighted him for it.
Now he harries Spain, and I am to hang him for it!
No.
If I hang Drake tomorrow, 20 other Drakes will take his place.
How can I hold them back when your King sends my honest merchants to the Inquisition to be burned alive?
>> Your Grace can at least forbid them to leave England.
>> England is a large island very many ports in it.
I will not sit at each in turn, like a cat at a mouse hole.
But I give Spain free leave to punish my Drake and his captains if Spain can.
>> Majesty!
>> I say, my Lords, "If Spain can."
(people chattering) >> If Your Majesty will not hear words, we must come to cannons!
And see if you will hear them.
>> If you use threats of that kind I will chase you out of my kingdom.
>> But Your Grace, you must listen.
>> "Must"?
Little man, little man.
"Must" is not a word to use to princes.
Our Council shall confer with you.
Meanwhile, go home and be quiet.
Leicester.
(dramatic music) I have been too bold.
>> Boldness was needed.
If once the Spaniards think that we are afraid- >> Invasion.
Night and day it drums in my ear, invasion, invasion, invasion.
I am afraid.
>> So that is why you disavowed Drake.
>> Disavow you call it?
That gentleman cares not if I should disavow him.
It was privately agreed between us.
>> Leicester: I was not told.
>> Must I tell you everything, jealous Robin?
>> When we were children I served you.
When the Queen your sister sent you to the tower- >> To please Philip of Spain.
>> Still I served you and was trusted.
But today, though I serve, and love, I am not trusted!
>> Do not deceive yourself.
I know you love me and would risk your life for me.
But these men risk more than their mere lives.
Once they're caught, I cannot help them and they know it.
Once they're caught, it is death by fire.
But that does not stop them from dying for me.
They still cry, "Save the Queen!"
(dramatic music) (ships crashing) (dramatic music) (men shouting) >> Seize the King of Spain, brave boys!
>> Come on you there, die for the King!
Come on!
Come on!
(men shouting) (swords clanking) (men shouting) (dramatic music) (water splashing) (men shouting) (swords clanging) (dramatic music) (water splashing) (men shouting) (swords clanking) >> Richard Ingolby.
Richard!
>> Miguel!
>> Father, he knows you!
>> Richard: We were friends once.
>> Enemies now!
(dramatic music) (swords clanking) (dramatic music) (men shouting) (gentle music) >> I wish we had never met.
>> Why, sir?
Because you've beaten us?
But as long as we're your prisoners, sir, it's a sort of holiday.
>> That's right, dear lad.
We are safe enough.
(somber music) >> Man: All aboard now!
>> Miguel, is it not possible to spare the boy?
>> I can do nothing.
It's each for himself, sink or swim.
Richard, you hear me?
Sink or swim.
(gentle music) >> Michael.
>> Sir?
>> You are the Queen's servant.
>> Yes, of course.
>> I'm now going to give you her orders.
You climb up on the rail, dive, swim for shore.
When you are on land, make for the home of Don Miguel, he will help if he can.
>> Leave you here?
I'd rather die.
>> I have friends in Spain.
I'm safe enough.
Once you're in England, go to the Queen.
(men singing in foreign language) >> I will not leave!
>> Obey me, Michael.
(men singing in foreign language) (dramatic music) (water splashing) (men singing in foreign language) >> In the name of the Inquisition.
(gentle music) (dog barking) (light cheerful music) >> Father!
>> Dona Elena!
>> Father's come home!
>> But you cannot go downstairs in your night gear.
>> She's mad!
>> Ah, poor child, she had an English nurse and she's never got over it.
A mannerless woman who opened all the windows.
>> Father!
>> Elena!
>> They said you'd never get ashore tonight!
>> Admiral.
Dona Elena, you must come back to your room at once.
>> Please tell the servants to prepare a meal for me.
>> First Dona Elena must retire!
>> I am not going back to bed yet.
>> What did I hear you say?
>> I am not going back to bed yet.
I want to hear about the fight!
>> Let her remain, Senora.
>> If you say so, Admiral, you're her father.
But for the future, Senorita, remember this.
A Spanish lady may retire, but she never goes to bed.
>> Miguel: Listen to me, Elena.
You're not a child anymore.
>> A child?
When I'm going to be married in three months?
>> The captain of the English vessel is Richard Ingolby.
>> Your friend, long ago, in England.
>> A friend, from long ago.
My best friend.
And I've handed him over to the military authorities and they will hand him over to the Inquisition.
And you know what that will mean.
>> Father.
>> But he has an only son, Elena.
I have reported him drowned.
But I do not think that he is drowned.
I think that he will reach the shore and come to us for help.
>> What is he like?
Fair or dark?
>> Oh, he could pass for a Spaniard.
And he speaks Spanish.
So if he does come.
>> But we mustn't help a heretic!
Besides, father, the danger!
>> But nobody will know!
>> But they will!
>> I can give work to a beggar if I choose.
He's only a boy, Elena.
>> But an enemy of Spain!
(dog barking) What is it?
>> Miguel: There's somebody outside.
>> Is this the English heretic?
>> Elena!
(Michael gasping) >> Poor boy!
>> The Queen says to her spirit.
Why does she always call you spirit, grandfather?
>> Continue!
>> A letter from her desk, a cordial from her cupboard, and a message from her heart.
>> Repeat the message.
>> She says, "I entreat Heaven daily for your longer life, else would I and my people stand in need of cordial also."
>> She is my cordial.
>> Vinegar for the rest of us.
She gave me a cuff this morning.
>> Burleigh: No doubt you earned it!
>> I was only humming a tune!
(gentle music) Michael's tune.
But she ordered me off to you with those letters and I was not to come back until you'd read them.
♪ Will you hear a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ How she wooed an Englishman ♪ ♪ Garments gay, rich as may be she had on ♪ ♪ Comely was her countenance ♪ Oh, sir, does your gout trouble you so?
>> Sir Richard Ingolby has been captured by the Spaniards.
He is held by the Inquisition.
>> And Michael?
>> There's no word here of Michael.
(somber music) ♪ Will you hear a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ how she wooed an Englishman ♪ >> I said you could not do it.
Now, listen.
♪ Will you hear a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ How she wooed an Englishman ♪ ♪ Garments gay, rich as may be she had on ♪ ♪ Comely was her countenance ♪ ♪ High was her degree ♪ ♪ Smiling ♪ ♪ Sighing ♪ ♪ Full of grace was she ♪ ♪ Will you hear a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ How she wooed an Englishman ♪ ♪ How I came to a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ Loved an English man ♪ (both laughing) >> Why do you want a fire?
>> I'm cooking.
>> What?
>> A treat for you.
>> What is it?
>> They call it a potato.
It's a kind of food, it's very rare.
>> Is it safe to eat?
>> Father's eaten one.
He says he never felt better in his life.
You bake them.
It takes an hour.
>> I'm glad it takes an hour.
I never see you nowadays.
>> Well, I'm very busy.
You forget I'm going to be married.
Besides, you only think of getting home to your Cynthia.
>> I expect she's married by now.
>> She won't be.
>> How do you know?
>> I know.
(Michael laughs) (dramatic music) What are you staring at?
>> It's over Lisbon.
>> What is?
>> Smoke, look!
(men singing in foreign language) So thick you can hardly see the roofs.
>> It's just smoke.
(dramatic music) (men singing in foreign language) >> Michael.
Your shoulder has healed at last, eh?
>> Yes, thank to you, sir.
>> Thank to Elena.
I gave you the hurt, she mended it.
Michael, I'm to hurt you again.
And this wound will not heal so quickly.
>> Sir?
>> I have a message from your father.
>> At last!
Where is he?
Where is he?
>> His last words to me were, "It isn't our quarrel, it isn't the Queen's quarrel.
"It's a war of ideas.
"The boy will understand that one day.
"Tell him, you can't burn ideas."
>> But when did he say that to you?
>> On my ship, the night you escaped.
>> Then you have not seen him since?
>> I saw him today.
>> What did he say to you?
>> He was gagged.
>> What?
>> Did you not see the smoke, Michael, blow in from Lisbon market place?
>> Smoke?
>> An execution.
(Michael sobbing) My poor boy.
>> Get away from me!
You Spanish devils!
>> Michael!
>> And you knew too!
You let me talk and laugh, while my father- >> Michael!
>> Get away from me!
If only you knew how I loathed you all!
Your Spanish faces, your Spanish voices.
And you fed me, haven't you?
And you clothed me!
You made me your household pet, but you burned my father!
And I have to be grateful to you!
Grateful!
>> Michael, how dare you!
You couldn't know, for you were sick- >> And now for once I know it!
I'm going now to take all my father's place!
>> But I haven't finished his message!
He said, "My son will hardly forgive me for deceiving him.
"He'll never forgive you.
"When his first grief is over, tell him"- >> I can not bear anymore!
>> Leave him alone.
It's all you can do for him.
>> We now come to the scandalous business of Drake's latest capture.
>> Scandalous?
>> I quote the Spanish Ambassador, and I confess he may well complain.
When the Spaniards of the New World sent home the San Philip, the San Philip, my Lords, is the greatest treasure ship the Old World ever saw.
Drake captures ship and treasure and tows all home to Plymouth.
Scandalous indeed!
And now I have to report that the San Philip has fetched in the open market 114,000 pounds.
>> Of which the Crown takes 40,000.
>> 50!
Write down 50,000.
>> Your Majesty intends to accept this money?
>> It should be more!
Well, so long as the crew gets it's share.
50, 60,000.
>> Your Majesty then returns the money to Spain!
>> Return?
>> We are not yet at war with Spain but we shall be if we do not return this plunder.
>> If Drake had not seized the San Philip, the Armada would have sailed by now.
>> But it has not sailed, my lord, and we are at peace with Spain.
Either we disown the capture of the San Philip or- >> Or?
>> Your Majesty returns the money and hangs our good Sir Francis.
>> Her Grace shall not so humble herself.
My Lords, let us face facts.
Why is the Armada being built?
To invade England!
But if we strike now- >> Aye, strike or be struck!
>> If we strike first- >> We cannot strike.
We have no fleet.
>> Burleigh, you croak like an old raven.
You and I have kept the peace 30 years.
Who now teaches you to croak war?
>> A young raven, new loose from the Spanish ark.
>> Well, young raven.
You have not cleaned your feathers!
>> He has sailed from Lisbon, Your Grace, in a fishing boat, single handed.
>> What is your name?
>> Michael Ingolby.
>> Where is my ship and where is your father?
>> Both lost, Your Grace.
>> How lost?
>> By fire.
>> Boy, your father was ever ready to love me and serve me.
I'm in grief for your loss.
And for mine.
Gentlemen, give us leave for a little.
Come.
>> Madam, in Spain, they herd souls as we herd cattle.
All men must be of one pattern and one blood.
Spain is the prison of all freedom.
Spain is horror!
Spain is- >> Sh!
>> But who will listen if you do not?
You are the world's hope, my father said so.
His last word to me was, "Tell the Queen."
>> Tell the Queen, Michael.
>> How can I?
I thought I could once in Spain.
I thought if I had but the chance.
But home again, I cannot.
How you can you, Queen here in free England, understand the danger.
>> Tell me, Michael, how big is their Armada?
>> I could never learn the numbers.
>> Elizabeth: How many troops?
>> No one knows.
>> Their Armada will consist of 132 ships.
It will carry 20,000 sailors, besides guns.
>> Your Grace has made a fool of me.
>> Blame nature, lad, not me.
>> Will Your Grace give me leave to go?
0 If you can not endure to be laughed at, boy, how shall you endure a harder service?
(bell ringing) Do you no longer wish to serve me?
>> Tell me how.
>> Well, first change your coat.
It stinks of fish!
(Elizabeth laughs) Thus we learn.
>> Michael!
(gentle music) Michael.
>> Sweetheart!
>> My dearest!
My darling!
>> Mistress!
This is my palace, not your private parlor.
Lord Leicester's dines with me.
Change my dress and my clothes now!
(bright music) >> I'll come back!
(gentle music) (bright music) >> The wrong shoe!
Thee wrong foot.
Where're your thoughts, girl?
>> In my head, Madam.
>> Crooked answers, crooked answers!
>> Yes, Madam.
For cross questions.
(hand slapping) >> My wig.
(bright music) >> Your Grace?
>> Do you like what you see in the glass?
>> Aye, Madam.
>> How old are you?
>> 18.
>> When I was 18, I was a prisoner in the Tower.
Fetch me the Earl of Leicester.
And do not loiter!
This mirror is old and blemished!
>> Shall I fetch another, Your Grace?
>> No, I know what you think.
>> I think nothing, Madam.
>> You do, you do!
You know that the Queen's face is blemished, not the mirror.
Well, fetch me my disguises.
(gentle music) >> I had forgotten.
>> Me?
>> That you were so beautiful.
>> I too had forgotten.
>> Me?
>> That you were so tall.
Such hollow cheeks, so haunted.
>> Spain is a land of ghosts.
(gentle music) This is home.
>> Home, Michael.
>> Who gave the wench leave to mount my throne?
And where is the Earl of Leicester?
>> Madam, I forgot!
>> Forgot?
The state waits while a flaunting flibbertigibbet sits in the Queen's seat and lets an indolent boy flatter her?
Am I to wait your leisures?
>> Your Grace, rakes me till I do not know whether I'm on my head or my heels.
>> You do not know?
>> Your Grace, it was all my doing.
(Cynthia sobs) Do not cry, Cynthia.
>> Leave her well alone!
I'll teach you two to know me better.
You kept me waiting on your pleasures, now you shall wait upon mine, go!
(dramatic music) >> Your Grace- >> Go and be hanged!
(bright music) (gentle music) >> Your dear Majesty has frightened two bairns out of their little wits.
>> The girl is a minx.
But he, he is such a tall lad, as you were, Robin, when all the world was young.
>> My dear- >> Nay my lord, springtime is over.
What is your autumn wish?
>> Your signature.
>> You had less tame wishes once.
>> They were never granted.
>> (laughs) And now only wish for my 60,000 pounds to spend on Burleigh's fleet.
>> Sign, most dear Majesty, and you are safe against Spain.
>> See here, Robin, I have written out for me another paper returning the money to Philip.
>> Without consulting the Council?
>> The Council!
But the boy's talk shook me.
>> He is a handsome youth.
>> You do well to be jealous!
He is stronger than you.
You are today.
He is tomorrow.
>> Lord Amberley, writes that you wish for a license to travel.
Why?
>> To see the world, my Lord.
>> What part of the world?
>> Paris, Rome.
>> Madrid?
>> Why should I go to Madrid?
>> Shall I tell you?
>> I should be glad to hear!
>> To give the King of Spain news of his English friends.
Why, Mr. Vane, you have no color in your face.
Have you been ill?
>> That's why my doctor recommends travel.
>> Mr. Vane, that is not the reason.
We know because we have read them, this letters passed between you and certain Spaniards.
>> There was no harm!
>> Why should the King of Spain invite you to Madrid?
Tell me why, and I will myself beg the Queen to grant your license.
The Queen would be merciful to a man who confessed his follies and those of his friends.
Come, be open with me.
I will not cheat you.
>> I have nothing to confess.
I do not understand your Lordship.
>> Your application will be considered.
Goodbye, Mr. Vane.
>> Good day, my lord.
(door thudding) (bell ringing) >> Did you note that gentleman?
>> Mr. Vane?
>> Mr. Hillary Vane.
It is very likely that he will try to leave the country.
Your business is to prevent him.
>> Soldier: By force?
>> If need be.
But at all costs, he is to be taken alive.
>> The French ambassador has arrived, my Lord.
>> Has the Queen returned from hunting?
>> Not yet.
>> It's late!
(bright music) (people chattering) >> Has she read my petition to rejoin the fleet?
Do you think she will let me go?
Why not?
>> Because she likes you.
>> Did you speak for me?
>> I didn't dare.
She's still vexed with me.
>> Why?
>> Because she likes you.
(people chattering) (bright music) (gentle music) (people shouting) (dramatic music) (gentle music) Michael!
(people screaming) (people shouting) >> You?
At least you've learned not to loiter.
Fools, can't you see that it's a woman?
(people murmuring) Who set you on to killing me?
>> Which Queen are you?
>> There is but one Queen, woman.
>> There were once two cousins.
The Queen of England and the Queen of Scots.
The English Queen put my Queen of Scots to death.
Now I have no Queen to serve.
>> She's crazed, or she would not dare.
Give me the pistol.
Not loaded.
Let her go.
>> The will stone me!
>> Where are your friends?
>> In France.
>> You shall be given safe-conducts and money to take you there.
Take her in your charge.
Be content.
No harm has come to me.
Your arm.
(crowd shouting) (dramatic music) (gentle music) >> Alive!
Unhurt!
Oh most dear!
>> Let me sit down.
Lord Robin, my sin cries up at me, crying Mary of Scotland.
>> No sin of yours, her life was forfeit.
>> I could have saved her, but I let her perish.
Well, I'll pay for it.
Five times, Robin, I have stood to be shot at.
Yet still I live.
>> Thank God Your Majesty is safe.
>> Your gout, I will not have you kneel.
We use you not for your bad leg, but for your good head.
A chair!
>> The King of France will rejoice at Your Grace's most happy escape.
>> My Master also will rejoice that your gracious life was not in danger.
>> Not in danger?
>> The pistol was not loaded.
But Your Grace's alarm is natural.
A woman's fears.
>> Four years ago the noble Prince of Orange was shot dead on his own doorstep.
>> And I, I know of loaded pistols.
And so, Your Grace', does he!
>> Your Majesty!
>> Boy, be silent!
>> Your Grace, this Spaniard plots against you.
>> Slander!
>> Slander?
Then your own people slander you.
In Spain it is common talk that England is full of traitors whom you have sworn to service.
>> What service?
>> Why, to kill the Queen!
>> Names?
>> How could I learn names?
But one day Your Grace, the pistol will be loaded.
And as the shot echoes across the sea to Spain, the Armada will sail!
And then there will be fire over England.
Flames, torments!
>> He's beside himself.
>> I am not!
>> Then you are a fool and a hothead.
Avoid my presence!
Enough, Burleigh.
You must forgive him, your Excellency.
His father's ashes have blown into his eyes and blinded him.
(dramatic music) >> You had better get away as soon as you can.
(dramatic music) >> Mr. Vane, you're under arrest.
>> Hilary: You'll not take me alive!
(dramatic music) (water splashing) >> Well, what are you going to do?
>> Why should I tell you?
So that you can prevent me?
>> I would rather help you.
>> Happy old lug, telling us what to do!
>> I am very tired.
In a few years, I shall be asleep forever.
Why should I care what you young people do?
>> Then why do you swat and hamper us?
>> I am an upper servant in an old house.
So is the Queen.
So is Leicester.
We have spent our lives dusting, polishing.
Dull work.
But we have learned to take a pride in the house.
And our task in our old age is to train the new servants.
The house boys, the kitchen maids, who one day will take our places.
I wonder why we do it.
We get no thanks.
>> My Lord, I did not intend- >> I cannot teach you to be a hero.
I am only a servant myself.
And service is too tame for you.
Pity.
>> My lord- >> Oh, go away.
>> My lord- >> Oh, chatter somewhere else.
>> Sir, Grandfather, the Queen is asking for you!
You are to come quickly, and quicker still.
Will you take my arm, sir?
>> I can still totter.
There, grandchild, is the man who requires your support.
>> You give orders!
You give orders!
You get who should be taken and who'll go free!
By gad, my Lord, if you think you rule here, you will soon know better.
Burleigh, Vane is dead!
>> Dead?
How?
Killed in resisting arrest.
>> But I gave orders- >> My orders, that he should not be touched!
But this fool takes it upon him to overrule my orders!
>> Do you not understand, my Lord, that we wished Vane visit to Philip?
And when he would return stuffed with Philip's plots, then, then we should have taken him?
>> Well, I was afraid foe her life, I- >> Oh, I'm assured of your dutiful thoughts!
>> Did they get Vane's papers?
>> No, he leapt over the boat's side and the tide swept him away.
>> Waste, waste, waste.
Wherein have I failed?
Robin, do you think that darn fellow was indeed a traitor?
>> I know it!
>> I know a youngster who is no traitor.
>> You don't understand.
>> I understand very well!
Young loyalty is asked to pay for everyone's mistakes.
Well I won't let you.
Listen, if the Queen sends you home in disgrace I'll come with you and be disgraced too.
>> Dear and foolish.
>> Why foolish?
You love me, don't you?
(gentle music) Well, is it settled?
(fire crackling) (dramatic music) >> I can't.
>> Michael!
>> Michael: I can't!
>> We have a right to be happy!
Everyone's the right to be happy, Michael!
>> Everyone, yes.
That is why we can't be.
(melancholy music) The last time I watched a fire fall to pieces was the day my father Elena and I were laughing.
And then the smoke began to drift across the bay.
>> Michael.
Michael!
>> Yes, dear, I suppose we a right to be happy.
Husband and wife sitting by the fire, listening to the crackles and thinking of what they did to him.
>> I shall make you forget it.
I shall!
>> The smoke drifted right over us.
And now it's drifting over England.
Unless we stop it.
Oh, Cynthia, help me to stop it.
>> I'll help you.
>> Elizabeth: How?
>> Come away, Michael.
>> She would like you to come away, Michael, to your home and hers.
And I do not blame her for dreaming.
But it is not service.
>> What is service?
>> First obedience.
>> I will obey you.
>> Then, Michael, give me what I want.
>> Michael: I will give Your Majesty my life.
>> Would you?
Would you give me your silly young life?
Dear lad.
Then I will tell you some news.
Vane, who was on his treacherous way to Philip's court, is dead.
But it is known to none.
He was of your height, not much older- >> And I speak Spanish.
>> Elizabeth: Well?
Could you play Vane's part?
>> This is madness!
Why should he risk his life, twice?
>> Michael: Dearest, be quiet.
>> No, let her speak, you love her.
It is fit that you should ask her leave.
>> I love her, but I will not ask any girl's leave to do what I must.
>> Not if I order it?
>> Michael!
Michael, speak to me out of your own heart not because she bids you.
Must you go?
If you are killed, Michael, there will be so many years without you.
I shall grow old, 50 years without you, Michael, think of it!
50 springs, summers, winters.
Must you go?
Then you go with my free leave.
>> Lord Burleigh will order your journey.
Luck go with you!
I have no more to say to you till you return.
(door thudding) Girl.
>> Your Grace?
>> Where do you go?
>> I do but seek some merciful corner to cry in.
>> Cry here.
(Cynthia sobs) >> The money and the license to travel.
>> The license not granted to Hillary Vane.
>> He was on his way to Philip when he died.
>> And took his secrets with him.
>> Secrets?
>> The names.
We know the plot against the Queen but do not the plotters' names.
>> And Philip knows them.
>> None but Philip.
>> I will get those names.
>> How?
>> I do not know, my Lords.
But I know that if I do not get those names for you, I will never see England again.
(dramatic music) (people singing in foreign language) >> Make up the fire.
>> Man: This hottest of days.
>> I am always cold.
>> Man: A cordial, Sire?
>> No wine warms me.
How many letters have I answered?
>> Secretary: Your Majesty has this morning written 40 letters with your own hand and dictated nine dispatches.
>> I will continue.
>> Sire, is it not time to rest?
>> Not in this world.
Who remains to be seen?
>> Admiral Valdez, newly arrived from Lisbon, he awaits instructions concerning the Armada.
>> Who else?
>> Mr. Vane, from England.
>> Admit the Admiral.
Employ rigorous miens.
Only by fear can the people be made to- (knuckles rapping) Admiral, I am satisfied with your report.
>> And the Armada sails?
>> A month from this day.
If the Englishman confirms our hopes.
Admit Mr. Vane.
Continue.
Only by fear can the people be made to do their duty.
And not always then.
(door clicking) >> Your Majesty, on behalf of all your devoted adherents in England, I, I- >> Compose yourself.
You are welcome to Spain.
Get up and deliver me your letters.
>> I am the letter, Sire.
We dared not commit our plans to paper.
>> But Lord Amberley says here- >> Ah, ah, but- >> Mr. Vane, you must not interrupt His Majesty.
>> Let him go on, I know the English.
>> I only wish to say, sir, that my Lord Amberley wrote before the attempt on the Queen's life.
>> What?
>> It was no attempt of ours.
A poor lunatic.
>> Is the Queen hurt?
>> Untouched.
But there is now such watchfulness at court that we all, and my Lord Amberley in particular, favor a delay.
>> More delays?
>> Only until the Armada reaches the Channel.
In the confusion the Queen should be easier to attack.
>> Wait.
Now, sir, the plan.
>> Sir, in the audience chamber at Greenwich- >> I remember that audience chamber.
Always drafty when the wind was in the east.
>> Yes, sir, because, sir, behind the tapestry there is a passage, walled up since the old king's days.
But some of us have secretly taken down the brickwork- >> Some of you?
How many of you attend the Queen?
>> My Lord Amberley, always, and, and myself until a month ago.
>> Does Sir Humphrey Cooper attend?
>> Sir Humphrey's absence hardly affects the situation, sir.
>> What is the plan?
>> Why, to spirit the Queen out of the palace by way of the passage.
>> Philip: Where would you take her?
>> To Sir Humphrey Cooper's.
>> Surely he lives in the north!
>> Ah, but he has an empty house in the Essex's marshes.
>> Philip: The Essex's marshes.
>> It would be easy to send a boat over from Holland.
>> I will consider your scheme.
Count, I commit Mr. Vane to your charge.
Accompany him to the Governor's apartments.
And see to it that his stay with us is a pleasant one.
>> Your Majesty, I most humbly thank- >> Compose yourself.
Well, Admiral?
>> I do not understand these blunt Englishman.
>> I lived a year with Englishmen.
I hated everyone of them.
And how it rained!
But we must use the tools that Providence sends us, Admiral.
Blunt though they be.
>> It is a good scheme, my Sire.
>> Yes, it is a good scheme, if he is honest.
>> Your first visit to Spain?
>> And my first view of the Escorial.
Very impressive.
But I shall inevitably lose my way in all these bewildering galleries and corridors.
>> In that case, always ask to be sent to prison.
>> To prison?
>> Now we have alarmed him!
>> As governor of the palace, my official quarters are, of course, connected with the prison.
>> So you see, you must be careful, Mr. Vane.
>> Oh, I will.
His Majesty has already made me shake in my shoes.
>> What did he say?
>> Compose yourself!
(all laughing) >> Man: Elena!
>> Spain and England under one King.
>> Think of it!
>> Oh, we do!
>> All England waiting for salvation.
>> All England watching the Channel.
>> Waiting.
>> That's it!
Just waiting.
>> Pedro!
Admiral Valdez has just come.
He's going to stay with us, he promises he will.
>> My dear Admiral!
>> Oh, Don Escobal!
Oh, yes.
My dear, allow me to present His Majesty's guest from England, Mr. Hillary Vane.
>> My dear, talk to your guest from England.
>> I, I want to talk to you.
You come from home.
>> My dear, how you do remind me of your father!
>> You speak of Don Miguel de Casanz, Admiral?
>> I didn't know that you've met my father at all, Mr. Vane.
>> I have heard his praises sung so often at home.
He made many friends in England.
>> It is hard for me to remember that now.
>> Have I?
>> My father-in-law was killed two months ago.
>> Killed, by English pirates.
>> I'm deeply distressed to hear this.
>> Are you?
Why?
You are English.
>> Elena!
(gentle music) ♪ I know no full of vanity than this ♪ ♪ To kiss and hate ♪ ♪ To kiss and love ♪ ♪ To kiss ♪ >> Charming!
>> Woman: Charming!
Charming!
>> Charming.
>> Then you approve of our Spanish love songs?
>> I find them disturbing.
Ours English songs are lighter.
>> More heartless.
>> That's a challenge!
>> Am I to accept it?
>> If you dare.
>> Dare!
(bright music) ♪ As the holly groweth green ♪ ♪ And never changeth hue ♪ ♪ So am I, ever have been, unto my lady true ♪ >> Why, that's charming.
Who wrote it?
>> King Henry VIII.
>> That monster who beheaded all his wives?
>> Woman: How could he?
>> But love often turns to hate, doesn't it, Countess?
>> I dare say, when it is rewarded by shamelessness!
>> What's that you are playing now?
>> One of our English ballads.
They call it "The Spanish Lady's Love."
(gentle music) ♪ Will you hear a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ How she saved an Englishman ♪ ♪ Garments gay, rich as may be she had on ♪ ♪ Comely was her countenance ♪ ♪ High was her degree ♪ ♪ Smiling ♪ ♪ Sighing ♪ ♪ Full of grace was she ♪ ♪ Will you hear a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ How she saved an Englishman ♪ ♪ How I turned to a Spanish Lady ♪ ♪ Saved an English man ♪ (people laughing) And now let me propose a toast!
Gentlemen, I give you the loveliness of Spain.
>> An ingenious toast.
It's wine!
>> It's music!
>> It's women.
>> Woman: I had no idea Englishmen were so gallant.
>> A thousand apologies!
I have been with the King until this moment.
>> Does His Majesty ever stop working?
>> Stop working?
Not to my knowledge.
>> I shouldn't be surprised, Mr. Vane, if you found yourself on your way back to England before dawn.
I've never known His Majesty to decide a matter so quickly.
>> You are to be congratulated.
There are few who succeed in hurrying our prudent King.
>> Then let us drink, gentlemen, to your prudent King.
>> The King!
>> The King!
>> Prudence is of course a virtue that we English lack.
>> You put audacity in it's place?
>> Do you despise audacity?
>> It dazzled me, once, but I have since learned to admire other qualities in a man.
>> Michael: Such as?
>> Unselfishness, consideration for others, all that is implied by- >> Prudence!
My friends!
Drink to the prudent, who think as the state thinks who believes as the state believes who loves and hates with prudence and die prudently when it is no longer safe to live and lie snug at last in prudence's grave.
Gentlefolk of Spain, I give you the prudent's face.
And may England... You can guess my wishes, gentlemen, for England.
(all laughing) >> Yes, we guess your wishes.
>> Ah, yes!
Let us now drink to the success of our guest's mission.
To the end of, of heresy!
>> To the invincible Armada!
>> To the destruction of Elizabeth!
>> You, you do not drink?
>> My glass is empty.
>> To the salvation of England.
(glass cracks) (dramatic music) >> Here!
>> Michael: Did you cut your hands?
>> It's nothing.
(gentle music) >> Elena.
>> No, Michael.
>> Elena, please.
>> I must tell my husband who you are.
You know I must.
The King must know.
I can't let you betray Spain.
>> I'm only fighting for my own people.
>> And I for mine.
(mysterious music) >> Then why did you say nothing when we met?
You had only to say this is Michael Ingolby, a runaway prisoner.
Why did you keep my secret?
>> I remembered you.
>> Dear, dearest Elena.
>> Why are there wars?
Why must I be torn in two?
It isn't wrong to be found of you.
Father, he was too.
>> Darling.
>> So I kept your secret till I could speak to you.
But now I must give you up to them.
(gentle music) >> Kiss me first.
>> No.
>> It's just goodbye.
The last time we forgot to say goodbye.
>> Goodbye, Michael.
(dramatic music) >> Somebody is coming.
>> It's Pedro!
>> Then tell him now.
What could be more prudent?
>> You are cruel!
>> Helena.
(gentle music) >> I've been enjoying the Spanish moonlight.
>> So I perceived.
>> The moonlight in this country is best enjoyed alone.
>> Why have you left your guests?
Answer me!
What happened just now?
>> You told me to talk to him, you said I'd been rude.
>> Did I tell you to walk alone with him on the terrace?
>> There was no harm, he was just saying goodbye.
>> Pedro: In private?
>> Why are you so angry?
I shall never see him again.
>> Again?
Where have you seen him before?
>> Nowhere.
>> Then why did you?
You have seen him before.
What is this mystery?
Who is this man that you insult in public and yet, in private, you- >> No, no, Pedro, you're wrong.
>> Well?
>> I had the right!
>> Give me the copy of Mr. Vane's instructions and the letters.
Sir James Todd, Lord Illingworth, Sir Humphrey Cooper, Mr. Joseph Madison, Lord Amberley, and, of course, Mr. Laurence Gregory.
Ah, Mr. Vane!
Mr. Vane, you will leave for England tonight.
>> Your Majesty.
>> I have not finished.
I have written for you the necessary letters of authorization.
The ink is still wet.
Sand it for me.
>> Michael: Allow me!
>> That is the sand, and that the ink.
>> Your pardon.
>> Copy the letter again.
Meanwhile, I will outline for you the modifications I desire to make in your plan.
Having secured the Queen's person- >> Your father must have been beside himself.
An enemy here- >> He wasn't an enemy.
He was just Michael, we were fond of him.
>> Fond of him?
The wife of the Governor of the Palace has failed to disclose the presence of an enemy.
Is the King gonna say that she meant no harm, she was fond of him?
>> I hope to deserve Your Majesty's trust.
>> Trust?
I do not trust you, sir.
I do not trust any man.
If the Count of Carmenar is with us, fetch him.
But you have convinced me that you believe that your welfare depends upon obeying me and you are right!
I reward those whom I within reason, trust.
Upon your arrival in England, you will of course immediately get in touch with Sir James Tallerton.
>> And?
>> My Lord Amberley.
>> Mr. Joseph Madison.
And?
>> Michael: Sir Humphrey Cooper.
>> Lord Illingworth.
And?
And?
>> (laughs) Tallerton, Amberley, Madison, Cooper Illingworth.
>> And?
(door clicking) And?
>> My memory.
He, he's my oldest friend!
The name is on the tip of my tongue No gone!
(laughs) He will laugh when I tell him.
>> And?
>> Tallerton, Amberley, Madison, Cooper, Illingworth.
Tallerton, Amberley, Madison, Cooper, Illingworth.
>> And Mr. Laurence Gregory.
Count, you will place this gentleman under arrest.
>> This way.
(people singing in foreign language) >> Your sword.
>> Keep your dagger.
You will need your dagger, Mr. Ingolby.
>> Elena has told you?
>> My wife's told me a tale of folly so inconceivable.
Walk on.
We may be watched.
Do you realize what will happen to my wife if she is known to have helped a heretic?
>> It will never be known through to me.
>> You English fool, you'll be persuaded to tell everything.
We understand persuasion.
Walk on.
You force me to choose between betraying my country or my wife.
I'm obliged to help you.
Your only chance is to escape now before news of your arrest is spread through the palace.
At the end of this gallery I'll hand you over to the captain of the guard.
Then, without scruples, use the dagger.
>> And be shot down for my pains.
My dear Count, that will be very convenient.
>> I regret the risk, but you must take it!
If, I say if, you are adroit enough to escape in the confusion it will be to my interest to create a confusion to delay the chase.
Make for the stables.
If you could secure a horse before the alarm is given, why, then you have a slender chance.
Captain!
You will escort this gentleman to the prison.
I shall examine him tomorrow.
Adios, senor.
>> Adios, Count.
>> Pedro: Captain!
>> At your service, Count.
>> If at any time the prisoner should show signs of plotting an escape, he is to be shot down.
Understood?
>> Understood.
(dramatic music) (blows thudding) (people singing in foreign language) (dramatic music) (swords clashing) (suspenseful music) (swords clashing) (door thudding) (dramatic music) (dramatic music) >> Fire!
Fire!
Fire!
(suspenseful music) (dramatic music) (suspenseful music) >> Mr. Vane!
Is the fire is serious?
>> They are getting it under.
I don't think we can do anything.
>> You'll be leaving us tonight?
>> Yes, His Majesty has been most gracious.
I was just about to try to find my horse.
>> I've arranged that!
(fingers snapping) >> Oh, thank you.
I am to slip away as unobtrusively as possible.
>> Oh, evidently, but does His Majesty- >> Sh, sh, sh!
>> You can trust me!
>> Thank you!
I really am very much obliged to you I should never have got away without your good offices.
>> I'm rather surprised His Majesty hasn't assigned an escort.
>> I prefer to travel lightly.
Yes, one likes to be free!
Yet, sir, at the moment it is most essential to hurry.
>> Yes, well, we shall meet again in Lisbon!
>> Yes!
You will find us waiting for you!
>> Adios!
(dramatic music) A very pleasant fellow.
(dramatic music) >> As long last Michael is safe and you are not angry.
>> No, not angry, my dearest!
But you must grow up.
You see Elena, the whole trouble comes from treating your enemies like human beings.
Don't you see, my dear, that if you do that they cease to be enemies?
Think what that leads to.
It's the end of patriotism.
It's the end of the war.
It's the end of, of everything!
Now, do you see?
>> I see.
I see.
(dramatic music) (dramatic music) >> Man: The Armada!
(suspenseful music) >> The Armada!
>> Man: The Armada!
>> Soldier: The Armada!
The Armada!
(dramatic music) (suspenseful music) (crowd shouting) (dramatic music) (dramatic military music) >> Well, my spirit, I come to bid you goodbye.
I am for Tilbury.
>> Your Grace should stay in London.
Your Grace will not take my advice?
>> I can't.
>> Nor the Council's advice?
>> The Council's a pack of cowards.
The army is at Tilbury and Leicester writes me, here, listen.
"May it please you to comfort this army and people "by spending two or three days in the camp."
So now comfort me, Burleigh, And wish me good luck.
(dramatic military music) Is this your supper?
>> Not now, not now.
>> Why not now?
A good English broth.
>> Your Majesty's kindness.
>> Keep your breath to cool your porridge.
Come, one more spoonful.
Now I must go.
(dramatic military music) Take care of him, child.
>> Your Grace!
Your Grace is there still no news?
>> Of the Armada?
>> Of Michael.
>> I have no comfort for you.
>> Do you think he will come back?
>> Elizabeth: I'm not providence!
>> But what does Your Grace think?
>> I have seen blacker fears turned to hopes.
Hope on till you know there is none.
(dramatic music) (gentle music) (gentle hopeful music) (crowd shouting) (dramatic music) My people.
I have come to live or die amongst you all.
To lay down for my God, and for my kingdom and for my people, my honor and my blood, even in the dust.
I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman.
But I have the heart and valor of a king.
And of a King of England too.
Not Spain nor any prince of Europe shall dare to invade the borders of my realm.
Wake up your hearts!
By your peace in camp and your valor in the field will shall shortly have a famous victory!
(crowd cheering) Who should keep my subjects from me?
Well, loiterer?
>> Majesty, the news from Spain.
>> Come!
>> Crowd: God save the Queen!
(crowd shouting) >> Mr. Gregory, summon to me here my Lord Amberley, my Lord Illingworth, Sir Humphrey Cooper, Sir James Tallerton, Mr. Madison and return yourself.
(dramatic music) (dramatic music) You have done more than well.
You can ask and have.
(dramatic music) >> She knows everything, everything!
It's better if we face it out, or do we run for it?
>> Run where?
>> Once the Spaniards land?
>> You'll be hanged by then!
(dramatic music) >> You have done enough.
>> Not while the Spaniards are in the Channel.
You said ask and have, let me join the ships.
>> Your Grace, the gentlemen are waiting.
>> Your place is with those others, and you know it!
Go!
(dramatic music) >> What is wrong here?
>> Robin, I need your sword.
>> My sword?
>> Yes.
Here in my hand.
Kneel, Michael.
Rise up.
Rise up, Sir Michael Ingolby.
>> Your Grace!
Your Grace.
>> I raise up and I cast down.
Wait here.
>> Words will not come.
Hear that?
>> She is, she is- >> She is the Queen.
The greatest joy of my lifetime has been to serve her.
And so will you find it.
>> So, sirs, you have plotted to kill me.
Well, here I stand and you still weigh your swords?
Men use them better!
What?
Let the King of Spain call you servants, when I call you sons?
>> Amberley: Your Grace!
>> Aye, sons, though your lives are forfeit.
How will you die?
In sunlight or in darkness?
For a free world, or a world where your thoughts are rationed like prison bread?
Choose, for the enemy is upon us.
>> God save the Queen!
>> Men: God save the Queen!
>> Sir Michael Ingolby, come here!
Michael, I will give you a command.
You shall fight fire with fire.
And these men shall fight under you for their souls' salvation.
Gentlemen, dear Michael, If you took seven little ships and tarred them and piled them with firewood and so sailed out single-handed against the greatest fleet the world has ever known, if you took not swords in your hands, but torches!
(dramatic music) (dramatic music) (fire whooshing) (dramatic music) (fire whooshing) >> Men: Fire!
Fire!
(dramatic music) (men shouting) (cannons booming) (men shouting) (dramatic music) (dramatic triumphant music) (men shouting) (dramatic music) (gentle music) (dramatic music) >> Elizabeth: Thou didst blow with thy wind and they were scattered.
(bells ringing) >> Peace!
>> Till next time.
>> No next time.
The Armada is scattered in the four winds.
>> And now the bells begin to ring.
>> Your Grace must rest!
>> No time, Robin.
For now come the rewards, and the knightings, and all the happy people.
And the blind who will never see again.
And the maimed men and the men with youth gone out of them.
>> Some have a little youth left.
(bells ringing) >> Listen to our wedding bells.
>> The woman's point of view!
Every steeple in England rocks for joy and my granddaughter says "It's because I'm getting married."
>> Robin: So at last they are to marry!
>> I allow it.
They shall not stay at court.
I have no married folk at my court.
>> Yet, I'm a married man.
>> More fool you.
You may go.
>> And come again?
>> Come and go.
(bells ringing) We come and go.
This mirror is old and tarnished.
I will have no more mirrors in any room of mine.
(triumphant music) (gentle music) (crowd cheering) (triumphant music) My loving people.
Let us give thanks.
Almighty God- >> Crowd: Almighty God.
>> Father of all mercies.
>> Crowd: Father of all mercies.
>> We, Thine unworthy servants.
>> Crowd: We, Thine unworthy servants.
>> Do give Thee our most humble and hearty thanks!
>> Crowd: Do give Thee our most humble and hearty thanks!
(triumphant music) (triumphant music)
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