(heavy breathing)
(weeping)
- What the hell?
- Woman: Is this the jail?
- Aye.
- Woman #2: Keep the door closed.
- George!
- Man: George?
- Woman: George!
- Man: What do you want?
- George.
- What do you want?
George?
- Come back here.
- George!
- I did it.
- Did what?
I killed him, my husband.
It was me.
I'll get Mr. Mullen.
You stay here.
Oh, George!
Je suis Marie.
Y'a pas de George ici.
(weeps)
She's undone, sir.
Driven.
Carried on
like a madwoman.
Man #2: Why not
send her to the church?
Reverend's away
from the fort, sir.
(coughing)
It's too hot in here.
It's a jail, not a bloody inn.
Aye, sir.
Mullen: So...
you say you've killed a man?
Man #1: Your husband.
What's your name?
Mullen:
It's a simple question.
Your name.
- She can talk.
- This girl speaks French.
- Man #1: Careful, sir.
- She's a strange woman.
Here, sit up.
Come on.
(woman pants)
Mullen: She's covered
in scratches.
She's gone wild, sir.
Fill out the forms, Donnely.
Lock her up.
I'll take her statement
tomorrow.
- Should we feed her, sir?
- I don't care.
This weather was sent
from hell, lass.
I'd rather freeze
than hang, though.
Mullen's voice:
Journal of Mr. Henry Mullen,
Chief Recorder, Hudson Bay Company.
November 15th:
In the absence of Governor Simpson,
it's fallen to me
to investigate
this strange young woman
Who appeared last night
at the fort.
As I am inexperienced
in these matters,
I asked Dr. Jenkins
to assist me.
First of all,
I want your name.
Fine, then.
Who's George? Your husband?
Perhaps he took shelter
with some natives.
Or perished.
- I've done a terrible thing.
- You said you killed your husband.
And George as well.
Mon Dieu!
How did you kill him?
With a rock.
I heard his skull crack.
Jenkins:
And where did this happen?
At the homestead.
We were building a fireplace.
We had lots of rocks.
- Why did you kill him?
- Because I wanted to.
I wanted to kill my husband,
so I did it.
- You haven't told us your name.
- Annie.
- And your husband?
- Simon.
And who's George?
His brother.
- Can you examine her now?
- No!
Right. Quite frankly, I'd rather
have her cleaned up first.
Would you like that?
Nice hot bath.
Good. Take her over
to the house, Ruth.
Jenkins: It's not
in a woman's nature.
Mullen: In the middle
of bloody nowhere,
cut off from civilization,
people do the unthinkable.
True, but no one has been
reported missing.
Nobody knows
What goes on out there.
She got lost,
quite likely.
How old do you think
she is?
it's hard to tell.
I'll have to take
a closer look.
What's this?
Purple.
Yes, I love purple.
Mmm...
your book?
I'll just put it
over here, okay?
It's burnt, huh?
Okay.
You get in now.
we'll get some more water.
(churchbell tolls)
(music) Oh what needless pain
we bear (music)
(music) Oh what needless pain
we bear (music)
(music) All because
we do not carry (music)
(music) All because
we do not carry (music)
(music) We do not carry everything
to God in prayer. (music)
(whistling)
- You cannot go with him, Annie.
- (water splattering)
Annie, get out!
Come on, get out!
Come on!
- Annie...
- I have to get dressed!
Woman:
I don't understand.
I told her to finish
her bath, get dressed...
Miss Creswell, I don't know.
She knew he was waiting.
Good... let him choose
one of the other girls.
- I want him to choose me.
- You can't go with him, Annie.
- Again, I had the dream.
- I have my own dreams, Sadie.
I want babies and a home...
- and a husband.
- Had a baby once.
Came out of a big boil
on my stomach, the size of a rat.
They took it away,
fed it to the dogs.
- That's a lie.
- It's true. I almost died!
Man: I do not care
if she can sing.
I need a wife
who can work.
Ah, here she is.
- She's awfully wee.
- She's strong.
And willing.
She's French, but can read
and write English.
No need.
She can sew just about anything...
suits, shirts...
she's been well instructed.
She'll do.
You won't be sorry,
monsieur.
You want to drown yourself?
The Scots make good whiskey.
At least they're good
for something.
- (knocking on door)
- Here she is, sir.
I put a damper on her.
My own.
- Thank you, Ruth.
- I found this.
It's burnt.
- Was there a fire?
- She won't talk, sir.
It's a mistake
to teach girls to read.
- I agree.
- Thank you.
Come.
Sit on the table, please.
- Mrs...
- Simon.
Come sit on the table.
We'll begin your examination.
- I'll leave it to you.
- No!
Come on.
Come sit down.
Come sit down!
Come here and sit!
Ah! we'll tie you down
if that's what it takes!
Just hold her, Mr. Mullen.
Please.
Good.
Thank you.
This won't take long.
I examine everyone that comes
into the jail, Mrs. Simon.
It's for your own good.
Hows your sleeping?
Fine.
Have you heard
from your wife?
There's nothing more to say.
Her position's straightforward.
She won't be coming back.
And you, have you made
a decision yet?
Well, I make
lots of decisions and then...
I change my mind.
Oh...
some frostbite.
Must be sore.
Yes.
She's had
a rather rough time.
Lots of bruises
and scratches.
Yes, look at this.
A bite mark here
on her hand.
Human?
Yes.
Now lie back.
Just lie back.
Mullen: Come on.
- Move your legs apart, please.
- No!
- Move your legs apart.
- No!
No one is going
to hurt you.
Jenkins: Good. Uh... huh.
Uh... huh. Okay.
Very good.
Apart from the obvious,
physically she's strong and healthy.
The marriage was consummated,
although not kindly.
I want her to take one teaspoon
of this four times a day.
It'll help calm her nerves,
help her to sleep.
- It'll probably improve her memory.
- Mullen: I should hope so.
- Ruth, get her dressed.
- Ruth: She has nothing to wear.
Give her something
from my wife's closet then.
And leave the book!
Come. We'll dress you
like a lady.
Your first murder case,
Mr. Mullen.
I found it.
It's a bit worn.
Mr. Mullen's old work coat.
You need something.
That place is so cold.
- Is this your room?
- No.
Mrs. Mullen brought all
this furniture from England.
That's enormous.
Do you have some scissors...
and needle and thread?
I'll ask.
Mullen's voice: "Tho' Women's minds,
like winter winds,
May shift, and turn,
an' a' that...
- The noblest breast..."
- Mr. Mullen.
She's quite different
since I gave her that medicine.
- She's talking.
- Good.
- "The noblest..."
- She wants scissors for sewing,
- you think that's safe?
- Yes, that's fine. Thank you.
Annie's voice:
"Dear Sadie,
except for the discomforts
of riding a horse,
I have never been so happy.
The country is magnificent.
I feel as though
my life has just begun.
Everything is new,
everything is possible.
As soon as I am settled,
I will send for you.
Perhaps you'll change
your opinion of marriage,
as there will be
a choice of eligible,
handsome men
in the district.
So far, Simon
has not spoken much.
He seems anxious
to get home."
- What are you doing?
- Writing about our journey.
Get your animal.
Follow me...
up on the path.
Simon: Yah! Come on.
Yah!
Annie: Simon!
Simon: Yah!
Come on!
Get him going.
Get him across, for Christ's sake!
I can't!
Simon: The supplies
are getting away! Hurry.
Get up!
Take off the blanket.
- What?
- I want to see you.
Not here.
Why not?
You're my wife.
- Yes, but...
- But what?
Simon: It's your duty!
Ah! Damn rock.
Just do as I say.
We'll get on real good.
- Spread your legs.
- Wait.
No!
That's what men
and women do.
We did it just fine.
Next time you'll want it.
Good morning, Annie.
You want some nice,
warm porridge?
- George?
- No.
What have you done?
Wow...
Look at this fine work.
Yes, it's very nice.
Wow...
Mullen: where did you
learn to do this?
At the school.
we all learned.
School,
you went to school?
Yes.
Did your husband
go to school as well?
No, he came and got me.
He wanted a wife and he chose me.
I see.
Sit down
and mind your business.
And where is
your homestead?
I don't know.
Annie: Is that it?
Simon: George!
Hey, Simon!
Mullen: Eat.
No.
Listen to me.
There is no reason
not to tell me everything.
You're in the worst possible
situation anyone could imagine.
You've confessed to a hideous
crime for which you could hang...
hang by the neck out there
with everyone watching.
A hood on your eyes,
a gruesome death. That's the law.
Don't you care?
Don't you want
to save yourself?
- Where was George when Simon died?
- In the forest, working.
He came back with a load of shingles
and saw what had happened.
- Where's the body?
- Buried.
George and I buried him.
Simon:
You haven't done anything.
I couldn't do much
without the horses.
You use your hands.
I did some chinking.
But I needed a fork
to mix it.
Hey.
Where are the supplies?
There's nothing here.
Ask her.
She sent them down the river.
Didn't you?
Hey.
I thought there was a house.
A farm, the letter said.
There will be.
A castle.
Hey.
Simon.
What are you doing?!
- I can't sleep outside.
- You're not sleeping here with us.
Annie:
We could hang a blanket up...
He's not sleeping here.
- You'll bunk there at the cabin.
- I'll stay with the Treeces.
Like hell you will.
You make us something to eat
while George and I
take the packers back
to the neighbors.
Tonight?
Simon, she's tired.
- She hasn't done anything yet.
- It's all right.
- I like working.
- Is there any meat?
I didn't set the traps,
'cause there are a lot
of skunks about.
But I got some berries.
- Berries?
- Yeah.
Christ.
There's plenty of food
if you didn't mind killing.
Annie's voice: It was like being
lost in the middle of the ocean.
I felt so small
under that sky.
Henry,
it's her wedding tonight.
I'm sure there'll be some pretty,
young squirrels, huh?
- (Jenkins chuckles)
- No one would blame you.
I've written to every parish,
both Catholic and Protestant,
Within 20 miles.
Someone must know of her.
Said she was walking
for three days.
She could have been
walking in circles.
She said she came
down the river, from the west.
Lots of Scots out there.
Here's a sweet idea,
Why not bring Annie?
- She'd brighten up any party.
- I'm sure she would.
Oh, Mullen.
We're pretty much free to do
as we wish out here.
I'm going to the party,
with or without you.
Should be fun.
(drunken laughter)
(music playing)
Well... I'm out.
- I could play another.
- Time for bed.
I'll go wash up.
You should wash up too.
Shut your mouth, clever laddy.
I did win five games
in a row.
George:
Simon, she's a lassy.
I lived with lassies.
I can.
They hate men who smell of old filth
and sweat like you do.
You sound like a lassy.
Get out of here.
Good night, Annie.
Good night.
- Simon: Come here.
- Annie: No, no!
- Simon: Come here.
- I don't want to.
- Simon: Stay still.
- It hurts.
(groaning)
- Don't just push it. Pull it.
- I am.
- Simon: Come on, you lass.
- George: Don't call me that.
Go get another one, lass.
What do you think
you're doing?
Get up and do some work.
Thanks.
Oh, Annie.
That is good.
- What is this?
- Same as last night
and the night before.
No!
- You're kidding me.
- (Annie chuckles)
Hummm...
(Annie chuckles)
(thud; groaning)
Stop it.
Stop it.
(Annie screams)
For God's sake, Simon!
- What are you doing to her?
- Bugger off!
Why are you hurting her?!
Simon!
God damn it, George.
- (thump)
- What do you think you're doing?
George: I cannot stand
what you're becoming.
- (thump)
- Simon: It's none of your business.
Simon: Stay away!
(branches crack)
Annie's voice: "I dream'd I lay
where flowers were springing
Gaily in the sunny beam;
List'ning to
the wild birds singing,
By a falling crystal stream."
George: That's it.
I'll get you back.
George: Annie.
No, no!
One storm in that tent
will end it here for all of us.
Ruth: Mr. Mullen agreed
to put her in a larger cell.
Don't mind if she doesn't talk.
She just sews and sews.
I heard you singing.
That's good.
I have something.
A letter? You wrote it?
That's something
I want to do.
- Learn to write.
- You will mail it for me?
This is William Sellor.
I told you about him.
He has some dresses
he wants you to sew.
Costumes.
For a play based on an opera.
Are you sure
she can do this?
I can't afford to have it fail.
It took two weeks to get the cloth.
Ruth: She's an artist.
Look at her work. Here.
Yes, it's real nice.
It is outstanding.
- But...
- But what?
I've done a few sketches...
to inspire you.
Here are the measurements
for Lucia.
Both dresses are for her.
Are you familiar
with the story of Lucia?
- No.
- It's a wonderful story...
about a young girl
named Lucia.
She falls madly in love
with a young man.
Woman: Hello!
Hey. It's the Treeces.
Welcome.
Simon: Oh Christ.
Hello, George!
I just stopped by to see
if you folks would come over
Sunday next.
we haven't had a chance
to welcome you, Mrs. Herron.
We don't have time
for parties.
- Don't mind him, Mrs. Treece.
- Hope you'll perform for us.
With pleasure.
We miss seeing you
at the church.
Well, I've been anxious
to finish the house.
Not working on Sundays,
I hope.
- Would you like some tea?
- No, thank you.
We're on our Way
to the fort, actually.
Simon, we'll be
picking up some supplies
before the weather changes,
back in a couple of days.
Is there anything you need?
No.
It must be very awkward
here for you,
alone with
these two young men.
No, We manage very Well.
You have a lot of work to do
before the snow flies.
Well, now, here's something
I haven't seen before.
A fireplace open on both sides,
in the middle of the room.
Simon says
it'll heat four rooms.
Mr. Treece:
Nothing but a fire hazard.
You're sleeping out here?
You must be freezing.
You're welcome to sleep
at our place, George.
Well, it's not so bad.
I've built a shelter.
I've got that bear rug
you gave me.
You're building too close
to the creek.
This whole area floods
in the spring.
Hup!
We didn't need his help,
or anyone else's.
He's hoping we'll fail
so he can take it over.
Or he'll marry
his daughter off to George.
You'd be daft enough
to do it, huh?
- You borrowed the house, Simon.
- I paid him in furs.
He isn't so smart.
Lots of places have fireplaces,
open like this.
Every house in Orkney.
Annie: That Jenny does have
her eye on you, George.
Pure and simple.
Nothing's pure,
and never simple.
(people chatter)
- Five?
- All right.
Good night.
Good night.
Sir?
Annie gave me this to mail.
I never mailed anything.
So I thought I should
give it to you.
Thank you, Ruth.
I'll take care of it.
Annie's voice: "Dear Sadie,
I'm in terrible trouble.
I don't know who I can trust,
so I won't write of my situation
until I have heard from you."
"If you make your way here,
I'm sure that Mr. Mullen,
the fort headquarters,
will find you a place to stay.
Yours affectionately,
Annie."
It says nothing.
It says she's keeping
a great deal to herself.
I'll post the letter.
Then, if Sadie exists,
their correspondence continues
and we can learn what
really happened out there.
Good idea.
George: (music) Talk not of love (music)
(music) It gives me pain (music)
(music) For love
has been my foe (music)
(music) He bound me with (music)
(music) An iron chain (music)
(music) And plunged me
deep in woe. (music)
He wrote that
for a secret love...
Agnes Craig,
a married woman.
A lover.
You have a haunting voice.
No wonder
they miss you at church.
There was not much to sing about
till you came, Annie.
I thank God every night
that you're here.
You've been
such a blessing.
- (Annie sighs)
- I'd better go back
and make supper.
Annie...
if you were my wife...
I would worship you.
Mullen's voice:
A month has passed,
and no light has been shed
on the young woman's true identity,
nor on the location
of her homestead.
Her youth and open demeanor
invite sympathy.
But in my experience,
judging a woman from her parents
is always a mistake.
I think I'd better
give this to you.
Thank you.
Look at this.
"Sadie Johnson...
deceased."
Oh dear.
- You want to tell her?
- I'd be wise not to.
For one thing, she's writing
another letter, a long one.
Yes, I see what you mean.
A man in your position
should always tell the truth,
but not all truths
need be told.
Exactly.
She has a bold script,
don't you think?
Yes.
Yes, a fascinating lass,
that one.
(music plays)
George: (music) Till all the seas
gang dry, my dear (music)
(music) And rocks melt
with the sun! (music)
(music) And I will love thee
still, my dear (music)
(music) While the sands
of life shall run. (music)
Mr. Treece:
Well done. Bravo.
- What confidence.
- Extraordinary.
You've got a real
talent there, lad.
Where did you learn
to sing like that?
Well, I was raised
by my father's sister,
a schoolteacher.
Simon was not so lucky.
He was raised
by my mother's cousin,
a woodsman.
I can sing a tune...
but you might not
like it much.
I wanted to go on at school.
But Simon was impatient
to take out my father's claim.
How wonderful
that you have each other.
- You can sing at my church.
- No, he can't.
We're leaving now.
Get your coat.
No, son. we thought
you'd stay here tonight.
It's pitch black
out there.
I didn't want to come
in the first place.
- We could get up early, Simon.
- No!
God damn it!
I wouldn't think
of traveling so late.
- I'm staying.
- Afraid of the wolves, Reverend?
God will protect you.
I hope you'll come back
soon, Mrs. Herron.
Maybe I can't read
or write...
but I can do a day's work,
- and not whine about it.
- We're going, Simon.
I just wanted to thank you
for the best meal I've ever had,
and for your hospitality.
- God bless you all.
- He'd be dead if it weren't for me.
- 100 times over.
- We're going, Simon.
The wolves would be chewing
at his bony ass.
You saw how he was.
Oh don't mind him, George.
I made a raisin pie.
Sit down.
Thank you.
Jenny made
the custard, George.
Simon, I'm falling!
You think I'm stupid?
You think I didn't see
what's going on?
I should leave you both
out here to freeze.
George!
Get down.
Make a fire.
You're not ready?
Simon, I don't want to.
Let's get it nice
and warm in here first.
Take everything off now.
Just sit down and...
I'll undress for you.
You'll like it.
I'll take off everything.
Just sit there.
George will be here soon.
Be very quiet,
and go to bed.
George: Annie!
Annie!
Annie!
Are you all right?
- Geor...
- Annie!
God damn you.
- Get the hell away from here.
- Annie!
Annie,
just say something.
- Anything.
- Annie: Simon, you're drunk.
Tell him, honey...
how much you love
your husband.
I'm fine, George.
I'm fine.
No...
I'm coming inside.
Annie: No, don't! Don't!
- Annie.
- Go away, George.
- Annie, please.
- Go now.
Please, go.
(Simon groans)
George: Christ.
Mullen:
Thank you, Donnely.
I've had a response
from my inquiries.
- A Reverend McBain.
- Have they found George?
He says he arranged the marriage
between you and Mr. Herron.
Seems to know a great deal.
He's very concerned about you.
And...
he says that this has been
a horrible mistake.
Why did you come here?
Have you ever looked
into a dead man's eyes?
No, not a dead man's.
A dead child's.
My daughter...
just a few days old.
- I'm sorry.
- I blame myself.
But that doesn't
make it right, does it?
No, sir.
Death is forever.
Heeyah!
Annie,
do you remember me?
Reverend McBain, of course.
Poor wee child.
We've gone over every idea.
Then we got word you were here.
- Have you seen George?
- He's at the Treeces'.
He's distraught
and confused...
as I'm sure you are.
Annie...
George told us
what happened.
I think not, Reverend.
I think not.
What have you
got on, there?
I'm going to marry
the devil.
Tell George not to lie
unless he's absolutely certain
the truth will never be discovered.
Aye, we'll make
some arrangements, sir.
Her mother was a Catholic,
but her father was a Scot.
Make him go away,
Mr. Mullen!
Nobody's accusing her
of anything.
You weren't there, Reverend!
You don't know!
Will you just listen to me?
Calm down, Reverend.
This is going nowhere.
- (Annie hums)
- Donnely.
Mullen: Did you believe
his story?
Reverend: He's a member
of my congregation.
- He swore it is truthful.
- Either she's mad...
Am I wicked or insane?
Annie: George!
He's finally asleep.
Annie...
it's all right.
Let's get inside.
Take me away.
We could start over...
our own place,
our own family.
Simon: God damn you.
No, don't!
No!
- Annie: George!
- I should do the same to you!
Annie:
He's sick from the drink.
He's fallen asleep.
He's sorry.
I'm sure
he'll apologize.
He can apologize to Satan,
for all I care.
What if the fire goes out?
He'll freeze.
Mr. Treece:
How are you doing there?
George: I'll talk.
Jesus!
Simon,
What are you doing?!
- Get off my land!
- What do you think you're doing?!
- I'm here to help!
- You thankless bastard.
For God's sake, Simon!
We can't stay here.
She won't last the winter.
Simon: walk away!
We need help!
Can't you see that?
You want to lose this place?
It'll happen.
George, Mrs. Herron,
you're all right?
Simon:
Get away from us!
- Leave us alone!
- You're not thinking, son.
Hey!
Now you have one last chance
to make this right.
You get on that horse
and we get to work.
And you stay
the hell away from her.
Or you leave here alone...
and you don't
ever come back.
George.
Annie's voice: "Oh Sadie,
I know there's no possibility
of me mailing this letter,
but still I must talk to you.
Thank goodness
Simon cannot read.
I fear that the worst
has happened."
(ruffling pages)
"They've been gone
for two nights now...
and I'm afraid George
might be dead."
(Annie sings)
(Jenkins chuckles)
Its Christmas.
Merry Christmas, Annie.
I've brought the key.
I've brought you
another bottle of laudanum.
I thought perhaps
you were low.
Would you like a sip?
Ummm...
I thought it was high time
I checked your frostbite.
Just to be sure, of course.
Do have a seat, please.
Pull down
your legging, please.
Good.
I'll take your boot off.
What are you doing here?
Get out of here,
you stupid fool! Go!
Silly Scotsman.
Hush now, Annie.
Just let the doctor
do his work.
Annie...
- Stop!
- It's so warm in here, Annie.
- Stop!
- What's going on here?
- It's Christmas, Mr. Mullen.
- Christmas, my ass!
- Open this damn door!
- Get back to the party.
I'll be with you
shortly. Ah!
Mullen: Pull up your damn pants!
Stop this insanity.
You drunken fool.
Get the hell out of here.
Don't tell me you never thought
of it too, Mr. Mullen.
He finds you
very attractive.
I tell you what,
come over to my house for a nice
hot meal. A little Christmas turkey.
(laughter)
See, nothing in the bowl.
Nothing in the bowl.
Rub it and make a wish.
- (children gasp)
- You wished for candies.
Sing a song for us, Annie.
- Oh...
- Your turn. You promised.
Come on.
(music) My love is like a red,
red rose (music)
(music) That's newly sprung
in June (music)
(music) My love is
like the melody (music)
(music) That's sweetly
play'd in tune (music)
(music) As far as thou,
my bonnie lass (music)
(music) So deep in love am I (music)
(music) And I will love you
still, my dear (music)
(music) Till a' the seas
gang dry. (music)
Annie's voice: I thought
it was a log he dragged
and that it was Simon.
But in fact,
it was George,
Wearing Simon's coat.
Annie: Oh mon Dieu!
What happened?
George, what happened?
Annie's voice:
What should we do?
What should we do?
When did it happen?
Yesterday?
You got in a fight?
It was an accident?
Don't you worry.
Everything will be
all right.
- A tree fell on him.
- Poor Simon.
He was my husband,
but I never really knew him.
No one did.
He worked hard.
Aye.
Annie's voice:
I cannot deny it, Sadie,
I felt a tremendous sense of relief
when I saw he was dead.
I wanted to put everything
about him behind me,
as though he had
never happened...
as though it was George who had
come for me and brought me here.
My prayers
had been answered.
God forgive me.
Of course
God forgives you.
It was an accident.
Close your eyes.
God will tell us
what to do.
Our Father
who art in Heaven,
hallow be Thy name;
Thy kingdom come,
Thy will be done.
We should go
tell the Treeces.
- And the reverend.
- Not tonight.
I've covered the body.
It's safe enough.
Tomorrow.
Get in there quickly
before it gets cold.
It's so peaceful here.
Aye.
I had a wee nap
while you were outside.
Everything will be
all right.
I wanted you from
the first moment I saw you.
Annie.
My apologies. I didn't mean
to frighten you.
I was worried about you.
I spoke to Mr. Treece.
- Annie: Oh.
- Aye.
Yes, good of you to come.
Reverend.
Welcome.
George.
- Where is Simon?
- He's gone...
to the fort.
We needed a new axe.
Mr. Treece was very upset.
He told me
Simon shot at him.
Not at him. In the air.
I didn't think
it was him at first.
Yes, Simon...
the firing and all,
- he was upset.
- Aye.
I see.
- Well, I'd like to talk to him...
- He understands he was wrong.
- He's sorry.
- I'm sure.
I don't want to make
matters worse, but...
- When will he be back?
- We'll tell him you came over.
We are all very worried
about you.
Do you not think
it'd be wise
to find yourself a place
to stay until spring?
We're doing fine, Reverend.
- Truly.
- Aye.
We'll build it better this time.
In the meantime...
We'll manage.
- Would you like some tea?
- No, thank you.
I can see you're busy.
George.
Why did you lie to him?
Why did you lie
to the reverend?
To give us time together...
now.
But why not just tell him
what happened?
Annie...
I want to be with you...
alone with you... now.
To love you.
But we have to give Simon
a proper funeral at the church.
No.
- I'll bury him here.
- Why?
He didn't believe in God.
It's what he'd want.
- Where are you going?
- To check the trapline.
Mullen's voice:
January 6th:
I have determined to journey
to the Herron homestead
to investigate for myself.
Mr. Mullen.
I'll be gone by the time
you're back.
This country is testing me.
I must confess
it got the better of me.
You were right to send
me back, I suppose.
You can send me some
correspondence on the girl.
I'd be interested to know
what you discover.
There you go.
Good luck.
Mullen's voice: The decision
whether to charge Mrs. Herron
Weighs heavily upon me.
The difference between Mrs. Herron's
account and that brought
by Reverend McBain is so striking
as to demand further inquiry.
I've sent word of my desire
to examine the body
and to interview all involved.
(gunshot)
George: God damn it!
- Piece of shit!
- Annie: What happened?
The wolves.
They smell the body.
I'll go tomorrow to get a shovel
so we can bury him.
- You were gone a long time.
- Aye.
I needed time... to think.
- About what?
- About what to do now.
I don't know much
about farming.
Simon was the one
who could do all that.
I was brought up
in a town...
in a big house,
with help.
I don't think
I can do this now.
You won't be alone.
I'll be here.
Our farm will be
a proper farm.
We'll have chickens
and geese and cows...
- and babies.
- Annie.
L...
I don't even care
if we can have this now.
What are you thinking?
I have nowhere else to go.
It's not right.
What we're doing,
it's not right.
I know.
We should have waited.
All right...
but I want you now.
I can't help it.
I don't want to face
anyone I know.
I just want you.
Annie...
What will become of us?
Henry Mullen. I'm looking
for George Herron.
Mr. Treece: He's not here.
He's gone to visit his aunt.
I've sent word with Reverend McBain.
They'll be coming within the week.
- Never mentioned it.
- I need to speak with him.
- Take a statement.
- Not to worry.
You can stay with us.
He'll be back within a few days.
It wasn't right, her being
there with those two laddies.
Simon was mainly stupid,
very different from George.
George is a sweet laddy.
We feel so badly for him.
He's hardly said a word
since the accident.
When they first arrived, George
came to the church every Sunday.
Then she arrived. The reverend said
she was raised by our church, but...
- We had them for supper.
- They left in the middle of dinner.
- Jenny: George didn't want to go.
- Next morning, we smelled smoke.
Henry went over and
Simon ran him off with a gun.
- A gun?
- Aye. I...
told Reverend McBain.
I'll take them straight-away
and let her try them on.
She will be so pleased.
I have more work if you have time.
I have nothing
but time, sir.
Yes.
Yes, this is absurd...
- you in here.
- Oh, I like it.
Yes, well...
freedom has little to do
with one's physical surroundings.
Allow me.
I will be back.
Mullen's voice: The sparseness and
isolation of the place oppressed me.
Life here would be
barely supportable
under the most favorable
conditions.
There was a grave,
as Mrs. Herron had said.
But it was empty...
the surrounding soil
soaked in blood.
Someone had been here recently,
to judge by the fire
still smoldering
in the ruined fireplace.
Annie's voice:
I heard his skull crack.
(gunshot)
(animal whining)
What are you doing here?
I'm investigating
the death of Simon Herron.
My name is Henry Mullen.
George Herron.
I'm here to examine
the body of the deceased...
your brother.
It was an accident.
There seems to be
some question of that.
Put that gun down.
You told the Treeces
you were visiting your aunt.
I was. I am...
but I decided
to come here first.
- To check the trapline.
- I saw the body, George.
In the fireplace.
Wolves dug him up.
It was...
gruesome.
Some parts were dragged
into the bush...
chewed to the bone.
So I gathered up everything
I could find...
- and I burnt it.
- In the fireplace?
I couldn't think
of what else to do.
- How old are you?
- I'm 17, sir.
I know your story, from both
the reverend and Mr. Treece.
Now I think you should tell me
in your own words.
There's not much to tell.
My brother had an accident.
I saw it with my own eyes.
A tree fell on him.
And Annie... his wife,
Well,
it undid her, I guess.
- She took off.
- Fond of her?
Aye. We get along all right.
We both like
books and music.
And your brother?
Did you get along with him?
Simon and I didn't have
much in common.
But he worked hard.
He wanted to make a better life
for himself, for us.
- And I appreciated that.
- I see.
What are you doing?
I' m taking your brother's
re mains with me.
- You're taking them?
- Yes, as evidence.
They'll be returned to you
if you wish, for burial.
- Or we can bury them for you.
- No, I'll bury him.
Very well.
Are you going to continue
homesteading?
It's all I have.
Mr. Treece says he'll
help me plant in the spring.
They've been very kind to me.
And I'll try and
make a go of it.
What will become of Annie, sir?
If the evidence supports
her claims,
We'll charge her...
and she'll go to trial.
- So she can hang?
- If she's found guilty, yes.
And if she is found guilty,
you'll be considered just as guilty
for withholding evidence.
You understand this?
You're under
investigation as well.
Aye.
But she's not guilty,
Mr. Mullen.
I can say that
before God, my maker.
I'll need a sworn statement
to that effect.
- Aye, sir.
- Do you like hunting?
I like to live, sir.
My brother taught me
that much.
Mullen's voice: My journey has both
raised and answered questions.
That crushed skull
is damning evidence.
But George Herron is adamant...
that it was accident.
I now had a picture
of her life there...
a hard life
with a hard man.
Hard enough to drive
a woman to madness?
Or murder?
My inclinations were at war
with each other.
I am of a mind to charge her
and let the jury decide the matter.
- Mr. Mullen is back.
- Yes.
He's very tired. He slept
under the stars last night.
- Did he speak to George?
- He doesn't report to me.
- I must talk to him.
- (Ruth chuckles)
He doesn't report
to you either.
Hand me your linens.
And your rags?
- Ah, Mr. Sellor.
- Sorry. I heard you were back.
- Yes. Is there a problem?
- Not exactly.
Mrs. Herron asked me to mail this,
but the postmaster said
her last letter to Sadie Johnson
was returned, marked "deceased."
I find it peculiar
that she hadn't been told.
I thought it best. She's been
under considerable duress...
I tell you what,
leave it with me.
I would never forgive myself
if I did her any harm.
She's done enough harm to herself,
I dare say.
Hows it coming along...
your play?
- Full rehearsal this evening.
- Congratulations.
- I look forward to seeing it.
- Thank you.
- Mr. Sellor?
- Yes?
Don't mention anything
to Mrs. Herron.
Please.
Will you have
your supper now, sir?
Yes, I'll be dining
in here this evening.
The girl would like
to have a word with you.
I'll speak
with her tomorrow.
- Sir...
- Thank you, Ruth.
Annie's voice: Dear Sadie, why
have you not answered my letters?
I can only think
you have not received them.
Hell is truth.
Seen too late.
He was no longer a boy.
The child was gone in him.
(animal growls)
Get away from there!
Go!
Go!
Go!
You don't scare me!
The cut had been
made by an axe.
Deep and gruesome,
cutting through bone
and right through
the heart of him.
Whatever had happened
out there, Sadie,
had ended in betrayal,
brother against brother.
And it was all
because of me.
I had set them
against each other.
I told you
I would bury him.
You say it was an accident.
- Just like you said.
- Why didn't you leave him alone?
Help me.
(George screams)
(crack)
George: I killed him.
I watched him spout
his last bloody breath.
And there was no sign.
You wanted him dead, too.
We're both guilty,
I know that.
But nobody need judge us.
I did it for you.
He was going to come back
and have you, he said.
Laughing at me.
He was talking crazy
about what he'd do to you.
So I picked up the axe...
and I flung it wildly.
And he went down...
With one scream.
Then he just looked at me.
And that was it.
It was much too easy.
Much too easy.
Aren't you coming to bed?
Maybe we both wanted it.
But it was me that did it.
I'll never say
anything to anyone.
It was better when
you didn't know the truth.
Because every time
I look at you,
I remember pulling that bloody blade
out of my brother's back.
(horse neighs)
Where are you going now?
The truth is
chasing me, Annie.
I cannot sleep
and I cannot stay here.
- I'm going to the fort.
- It's both of us,
- not just you.
- If someone comes,
just tell them the truth
about what I did.
I'll turn myself in.
They don't need to know about us.
Don't go!
I hope that I never
see you again.
Annie's voice: I waited
for days, going slowly mad.
I thought George had gone
to the fort and that he would hang
for a crime that was
as much mine as his.
Finally, I could
bear it no longer.
(breathing heavily)
I know my part in this.
But I did truly think
that George loved me...
as much as I loved him.
How has she been?
Mrs. Herron?
Not so well.
worried.
And sick in the mornings.
She is with child.
It's quite apparent.
She's having a baby.
You can't hang her now,
can you?
It's not up to me, Ruth.
I think it is.
I know it is.
Annie's voice:
I need you here, Sadie.
I have an enormous
favor to ask.
Please send word immediately,
or I really will go mad.
Mr. Mullen.
- I have something to tell you.
- Yes, but first...
please, take a seat,
Mrs. Herron.
This has been returned.
I'm so sorry.
Have you come
to some conclusions?
Not yet.
It's more complicated
than I anticipated.
That's all I can say.
I'll have Ruth
bring you some tea.
Mullen: "In the matter
of Mrs. Annie Herron...
In the matter of
Mrs. Annie Herron,
it is the conclusion
of this office...
It is the conclusion
of this office
that there's insufficient evidence
to warrant the laying of charges.
For any criminal act.
Mrs. Herron suffered
from delusions,
brought on by her mistreatment
at the hands of her husband.
The result is that she believed
herself to be implicated
in his accidental death,
Wishing as she did,
for release from her torment.
Her better nature
has been restored
and she is therefore
released from custody."
Ha! Get along!
Nice day for getting married.
Isn't it, Annie?
Come on!
Minister: According to the duty
of a faithful husband,
forsaking all others
during her life,
keeping faithful and truth
on all points,
as the Word of God and
His Holy Gospel doth command.
George:
Even so, I take her...
before God and in the presence
of this congregation.
Minister: The Lord sanctify,
bless you and pour
the riches of His grace upon you,
that you may please Him
and live together in love
till your lives end.
Could you all please rise?
(music) The Lord is my shepherd (music)
(music) I shall not want (music)
(music) He makes..."
Annie's voice:
It seems that Mr. Treece
did get control of the land,
just as Simon said he would.
(music) He leadeth me (music)
(music) The quiet waters by. (music)
(fiddle playing)
- (clapping)
- Man: Ladies' choice!
Your turn, ladies!
Come on, now.
Ladies' choice.
George, as your sister... in... law,
I think I deserve a dance.
(music c starts)
I'm so sorry, Annie.
- I failed you.
- We all do it.
We have to do it, George.
You didn't tell me
you were having his baby.
Not his... yours.
It's a girl. Sadie Herron.
But she'll be known
as Simon's daughter
so she'll have a legitimate
place in this world.
Aye.
Of course.
(clapping)
I know you'll do well
by us, George.
I will.
(music plays)