The Boston Diamond

8/6/2019 The Boston Diamond

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THE BOSTON DIAMOND

by

Neil Raphael

Neil Raphael35 Sistova Road

Balham

London, SW12 9QR

Tel: 020 8673 8726Fax: 020 8673 8758

December 2000

Based upon an idea by

Neil Raphael and Nick Yapp



THE BOSTON DIAMOND

CREDITS OVER:

FADE IN:

1 1EXT. A CLEARING, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS -- MORNING

The clearing is surrounded on three sides by woods. It isa quiet, sunny spring day.

PULLBACK REVEALS:

TWO ROWS OF 10 MEN, apart by a dozen yards - to the LEFT,BEWIGGED ENGLISH ARMY OFFICERS AND ARISTOS; to the RIGHT,A MOTLEY CREW OF CIVILIAN AMERICANS. From their appearancesand demeanour, there is a clear social gulf between the

two sets of men. The two sides face off - as if they areabout to take part in some minor skirmish. (Amongst theirnumber familiar contemporary sporting faces are noted -DARREN GOUGH, ALEC STEWART, GRAHAM THORPE, ADAM HOLLIOAKEand CAL RIPKEN, GREG MADDUX, MIKE PIAZZA, MARK McGWIRE)

An impeccable aristo in his mid-50's, CECIL STANHOPE 17THDUKE OF SUSSEX, and ENGLISH AMBASSADOR to the AMERICANCOLONIES, stands before the English contingent. His down-at-heel colonial neighbour, ABNER JEFFERSON, stands beforethe colonial Americans.

SUPERIMPOSE: 'APRIL 1775 - BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS'

PULLBACK REVEALS:

AN ARTIST, hastily sketching the scene. Sussex loses hispatience at 'posing', and strides away towards a hut.

In the background, the 'warriors' break off, divestthemselves of their outer garments and proceed to constructa rudimentary BASEBALL FIELD - a homeplate/wicket, apitching mound, marking posts and 3 bases.

2 2EXT. SUMMER HUT, CLEARING -- MOMENTS LATER

Sussex - accompanied by his manservant DALRYMPLE carryinga sack of money - and Jefferson - accompanied by a lawyer,STIMPSON - walk towards a small table covered by a clothin front of the hut.

BEHIND THEM, the Americans run out onto the field to takeup their fielding positions.

CLOSE ON: THE TABLE, as Dalrymple passes the money-sack toSussex. From Sussex's hand, the bag of 100 gold sovereignsKLUNKS HEFTILY upon the table.

(CONTINUED)



2.

2 CONTINUED: 2

Jefferson salivates at the sight of the bag. Stimpsonplaces a document on the table.

The protagonists sign it, as an English BATTER walks tothe 'plate' behind them. Sussex and Jefferson shake hands.

3 3EXT. SUMMER HUT, CLEARING

As Sussex and Jefferson take their seats, Dalrymple standsclose by with pen and rule/scorebook.

4 4EXT. BASEBALL FIELD, CLEARING

The American PITCHER winds up, and, at the point of release,a MUSKET-SHOT is heard. The BALL SAILS WILDLY over thebatter's head. The pitcher DROPS TO THE GROUND.

Lying flat on the ground, the pitcher feels over his body -and is relieved to find out that he has NOT been shot.

5 5EXT. CLEARING

A COLONIAL ON HORSEBACK (PAUL REVERE-like) leaps from thewoods - as another MUSKET-SHOT whistles past. The Riderwhips his horse across the field


Jefferson and Sussex are surprised and frightened.

7 7EXT. WOODS

More SHOTS are heard and the Rider ducks to avoid the shots.The players scatter. The Rider heads across the fieldtowards the woods opposite.

A POSSE of pursuing English soldiers emerges from the woods.The players run from the field.


With the field now overrun with soldiers, Jefferson, Sussexand entourage prepare to flee.

CLOSE ON: THE TABLE, with the money-bag and document. AHAND APPEARS and snatches them both up.

The English and American sporting protagonists FLEE TOOPPOSITE SIDES.

FADE OUT:

9 9EXT. MUCH STANHOPE, SUSSEX -- MORNING

LONG SHOT: STANHOPE MANOR ESTATE, on a quiet sunny, springday. In an adjacent field, there is an elderly man,

DALRYMPLE (same actor as previously), EXPERTLY SCYTHING.

(CONTINUED)



3.

9 CONTINUED: 9

The peace is shattered by the sound of a CAR racing up thegravel drive. The car screeches to a halt outside StanhopeManor. An athletic man of 30, NICK STANHOPE, hurriedlygets out of the car and runs to the front door.

10 10INT. HALLWAY, STANHOPE MANOR HOUSE

Nick runs the length of the hallway and dashes up a flightof stairs. (It is apparent that this is a house that hasclearly seen BETTER DAYS - repairs and renovations areneeded throughout) Nick turns to run up a second flightof stairs when he STOPS DEAD.

NICK'S POV: A PRIEST, FATHER CLAUDE, 55, standing as ifblocking Nick's progress. There is a FROZEN STAND-OFF aseach man STARES DEEP into the other's eyes. The anxiousNick deftly sidesteps Father Claude and bounds upstairs.

11 11INT. BEDROOM, STANHOPE MANOR HOUSE

The door is flung open and Nick enters. Nick looks to thefour-poster bed where DOCTOR MAKEPEACE leans over a manlying in the bed. Makepeace turns to see an apprehensiveNick, followed in by Father Claude.

Makepeace steps aside as Nick approaches. Nick's facecontorts as he looks at the comatose man - his father,RALPH BRAZIER STANHOPE, the 22nd DUKE OF SUSSEX (same actoras previously).

MAKEPEACE

I'm sorry, but...I fear the worst.

Tears well in Nick's eyes. He leans over his father.

NICKOhhh...Father.

Nick sits and hugs his father.

NICK (CONT'D)(whispers)

I'm sorry...sorry I haven't been abetter son.

Makepeace looks sadly at Father Claude. Suddenly, as ifstruck by lightning, the Duke SITS BOLT UPRIGHT, EYES WIDEOPEN - almost knocking Nick off the bed. The Duke grabsNick in a vice-like grip and stares at him. To the side,Makepeace and Father Claude are ASTONISHED.

DUKENicholas...

Nick relaxes at his father's Lazarus-like impression.

(CONTINUED)



5.

13 CONTINUED: 13

ELSPETHNick, Grace, there's something Imust tell you. Just last year,and as we were both still 'single',Ralph asked me for a reconciliation.

(off Nick's andGrace's surprise)

Said he'd made mistakes - therearen't enough fingers here to countthem.

Nick LOOKS EMBARRASSED - Elspeth could be describing him.

ELSPETH (CONT'D)He said he'd 'changed'.

(pointedly at Nick)Good Lord, Stanhopes never change!

(laughs)I did love your father, we had

some wonderful years, but...I'menjoying life on my own.

(throws Father Claudea false smile)

Be careful, Nicholas.

Nick takes a breath and walks over to Father Claude.

CLAUDE(to Guest 1)

...indeed, the late Duke was abeloved man - kind and generous.

(to Guest 2)And, yes, also gracious, generousand compassionate. We shall notsee his like again, praise be-

(seeing Nick)Ahh, Nicholas. Excuse us.

Father Claude breaks off to join Nick - they walk off.

14 14INT. DINING-ROOM, STANHOPE MANOR -- LATER

CAMERA WITH ELSPETH, as she walks to the open frenchwindows, all the while watching Nick and Father Claude

talking animatedly on the patio outside.

Elspeth steps out onto the patio to hear their conversation:

CLAUDE...your father was weak andemotional ...foolish and evendeceitful...and pathologicallyobsessive.

(across angry Nick)And I say these things only foryour benefit, Nicholas.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)



7.

19 19INT. PRESS CONFERENCE, LORDS CRICKET GROUND -- DAY

SOME MONTHS LATER, Nick sits grimly before journalists.

NICK...and as another similar blowcould be fatal...I'm announcing my

retirement from first-class cricket.

JOURNALISTWhat are you going to do now, Nick?

NICKGet drunk!

The journos laugh; though Nick looks MOROSE.

CLAUDE (V.O.)In the following years, you threw

it all away.

20 20INT. CAR - SPEEDING - COUNTRY LANE -- DAY

Nick a daredevil at the wheel.

21 21INT. PARTY -- NIGHT

Nick partying, and drinking to excess.

22 22INT. STUDY, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

CLAUDE (V.O.)Your father was sorely taxed...

An exasperated 22nd Duke writing another cheque for Nick.

FLASH FORWARD:

23 23EXT. PATIO, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

Nick and Claude talking, the clouds darken overhead.

CLAUDEAgain...and again...

NICKOkay, okay! You don't have toremind me. I made a few wrongturns. But I'm part of a SportsPromotion Consultancy now.

CLAUDEWhat consultancy! What promotion!What sports! You were swallowedup in the fleshpots of London.

(CONTINUED)



8.

23 CONTINUED: 23

NICKYou don't know-

CLAUDEIn his last few months, the Dukebecame obsessed about the GreatGame. His final words were a cri

de coeur to a prodigal son.

NICKDon't blackmail me!

CLAUDEYour father in the heavens isspeaking to you, my son.

NICKI have other concerns-

CLAUDE(jabbing finger)

Destiny points a finger at you.

There is a BOLT OF LIGHTNING, and they recoil.

NICKLook at the state of the house...theestate lands...

CLAUDEThe most sporting Stanhope should

grasp this opportunity, my son.

NICK(explodes)

Look...I am not your 'son'!

CLAUDENo. But I am your Uncle!

THUNDER ROLLS overhead.

24 24INT. DINING-ROOM, STANHOPE MANOR

Elspeth watches Nick turn away from Claude. Dalrymplearrives with Elspeth's coat and helps her on with it.

ELSPETHThank you, Dalrymple.

DALRYMPLEM'Lady.

Elspeth fixes on the contemplative Nick.

(CONTINUED)



9.

24 CONTINUED: 24

DALRYMPLE (CONT'D)If I may be so bold...

(a beat)The house has not been the samesince you left.

ELSPETH

You're a poppet, Dalrymple.(kisses him)

The house, and Nick, are in goodhands as long as you remain.

Nick turns back to Claude.

NICKThe answer's 'no', Claude!

Nick stomps off leaving Claude quietly cursing. With ahalf-smile, Elspeth turns away to leave.

25 25INT. OFFICE, TRUMBLE TRUMBLE JARNDYCE AND TRUMBLESOLICITORS, LONDON -- DAY

A Victorian chambers. EDMUND TRUMBLE SR is sitting acrossthe desk from Nick, Grace and Claude.

TRUMBLE SRThat deals with Miss Grace's trust,and the protectorate of FatherClaude's parish. Now...

(reading from will)

"To my only son, Nicholas..."

The door bursts open, and an ancient, suited man, THEODORETRUMBLE ELDER, rushes in and goes straight to Nick.

TRUMBLE ELDERMy commiserations on the passingof your delightful wife...

Trumble Sr rushes round his desk to rescue Nick.

TRUMBLE ELDER (CONT'D)And in such bizarre circumstances.

TRUMBLE SR (O.S.)(to Nick)

My father got it into his headthat it was your father who wouldbe here today.

(shouts to his father)Father, this is His new Lordship.

NICKA pleasure to meet you, Mr Trumble.

(CONTINUED)



10.

25 CONTINUED: 25

TRUMBLE ELDERBy Jove, you look terrible, Ralph.

Trumble Sr's eyes go to the heavens, as do Claude's.

TRUMBLE SRNo, father-

Trumble Elder spies Claude and spits at him:

TRUMBLE ELDERYou the blackguard who stole mytruss? You look...Spanish!?!

TRUMBLE SRFather, let's go and see nurseybefore you have an accident.

Grace gets up and helps usher Trumble Elder out, as Trumble

Sr returns to his desk. Trumble Sr reads:

TRUMBLE SR (CONT'D)"To my only son Nicholas...my entireestate -

(a beat)In the hope that...he might learnsome responsibility and manage itbetter that I was able to. MayGod help him."

CLAUDE

Amen.

They all stir in their seats, until Trumble Sr coughs:

TRUMBLE SRThere is an addendum.

(again reading)"The Great Colonial Baseball Gamepostponed down 5 generations ofStanhope is a heavy sadness to me,now that I have failed the Stanhopename. It is my profound wish thatNicholas, though no longer a

sportsman, revives the challenge -to which £50,000 has been set aside.

(Nick perks up)If this Game is not resuscitated30 days from the reading of mywill, these monies shall be forfeitentirely and released to pay DeathDuties. Any monies accruing fromthe execution of this wager shallbe shared equally by the survivingmale Stanhopes.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)



11.

25 CONTINUED: (2) 25

TRUMBLE SR (CONT'D)(half-smile fromClaude)

Enclosed are the details of MrWendell Jefferson as of July, 1996."

Trumble Sr hands the will and Jefferson details to Nick,

who takes them as if being handed a poisoned chalice.

26 26INT. HALLWAY, STANHOPE MANOR -- AFTERNOON

Nick is walking with Grace towards the front door; Dalrymplefollows them with Grace's packed bag. They come levelwith Nick's Study where an accountant, SMEDLEY, pores overa deskful of Stanhope finances.

GRACESo, what are you going to do?

NICK(nodding towardsSmedley)

Depends on the auditor, but I'llpour some cash into the old pile-

GRACENo, about the baseball game? Youknow, the present Jeffersons couldbe super-rich.

NICK

Or they could be mega-paupers.

GRACEWhat, a bit like us!?

NICKAnyway, that was...baseball!? Andbaseball is just not cricket!Isn't that right, Dalrymple?

DALRYMPLEAs a matter of fact, M'Lord-

NICKYou don't have to answer, Dalrymple.

But Dalrymple may well know.

GRACEWell, I still don't know why fathernever told us about the game.Well, Dalrymple?

NICKDalrymple!?

(CONTINUED)



12.

26 CONTINUED: 26

DALRYMPLE(reticent)

I do recall the late Duke's words...

NICKGo ahead, Dalrymple.

DALRYMPLE"We've got another bloody wastrelof a Stanhope!"

(off Nick's shock)Forgive me, sir.

NICKA wastrel, Dalrymple!?

DALRYMPLEBloody wastrel, M'Lord.

NICKThanks, Dalrymple. That's all.

Claude appears rubbing his hands gleefully.

GRACEI still think it's worth contactingthis Jefferson - the sovereignsand the diamond may be long gone,but it'll be worth fifty grand.

CLAUDE

Not to mention your father's wishes.

NICKNow, it wouldn't be half the cashyou're after, would it, Claude?

Claude looks appealingly to the heavens.

GRACENick!?

NICKI've got more important, practical

matters to see to. Anyway, I don'tneed any advice...I know what I'mdoing here!

Nick turns and knocks over a vase - just catching it.Claude kisses Grace, and he goes off in a huff.

27 27EXT. DRIVEWAY, STANHOPE MANOR -- MOMENTS LATER

Grace and Nick walk outside.

(CONTINUED)



13.

27 CONTINUED: 27

NICKActually, Grace, I am thinkingabout contacting Jefferson. Imean...what the hell.

Grace and Nick hug. Grace gets into her car.

Grace starts the car and drives off. A dour-lookingSmedley, laden with box-files, walks past Nick and goes tohis car. Nick runs up to him.

NICK (CONT'D)Mr Smedley!? What's the verdict?

SMEDLEYM'Lord, it has been some time sinceyour father had his accountsscrutinized.

Smedley opens his car door.

NICKSo, the old man wasn't a financialwizard!?

SMEDLEYIt's early days yet, sir.

NICKBut he wasn't a complete dolt!?

SMEDLEYAs I said, M'Lord-

Smedley gets in his car.

NICKIt's early days.

SMEDLEYI'll have a full report in a week.

Smedley drives off. Nick shrugs.

NICKAccountants!?

Nick turns back, and takes a PANORAMIC VIEW of his estate.

NICK (CONT'D)(quietly)

It's mine.(now grinning, aloud)

Mine...all mine!



14.

28 28EXT. STANHOPE MANOR -- MORNING

A builder's truck laden with scaffolding pulls up. Nicklooks on, very pleased.

29 29EXT. STANHOPE MANOR -- LATER

Scaffolding is being erected. Nick is standing discussingplans with his ARCHITECT.

30 30INT. HALLWAY, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

Plasterers and decorators are getting to work on thehallway. Dalrymple, with a tray of tea, has to manoeuvrehis way around their equipment.

31 31EXT. DRIVEWAY, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

Nick's car pulls into what resembles a builder's yard and

has difficulty finding a space to park.

32 32INT. HALLWAY, STANHOPE MANOR -- MORNING

The builders have already started work as Nick walksdownstairs, and collects and looks at the letters - allbills - from the mantelpiece. Nick walks to the Sitting-Room where he finds Claude, and Dalrymple hovering.

CLAUDENicholas...if I may be so bold -I've been thinking that what you

need is...(passes CountryLife magazine toNick)

The Duchess of MidLothian - single,attractive in that Scottish wayand...replete with 35,000 acres ofprime land-

NICK(most unimpressed)

Claude! I'm quite capable ofsorting out my own affairs.

CLAUDEOh! I would never suggest anaffair, my son.

NICKClaude, I know there's just a weekto go...but I have written toJefferson.

DALRYMPLE(holding letter)

I have the letter here to be posted.

(CONTINUED)



15.

32 CONTINUED: 32

CLAUDEOh, wondrous wonder of wonders.Your father will be smiling downon you. Oh, happy day.

NICKListen, Claude, stop trying to run

my life.

Claude nods and walks off rubbing his hands togethergleefully and humming. Dalrymple, with the letter, followsClaude at a slower pace.

Nick goes to follow them but is surprised to come acrossSmedley lurking behind a builder's ladder. Smedley handsNick the 'Stanhope Financial Report' folder.

SMEDLEYM'Lord,

In return, Smedley is handed the Country Life, as Nickleafs the report, looking perplexed at its complexity.

SMEDLEY (CONT'D)I was correct in thinking yourfather's affairs would be complex.

NICKCan you make it simple, Smedley?

SMEDLEY

Your father was days away frombankruptcy.

NICKHis bank accounts?

SMEDLEYEmpty.

NICKShare portfolio, Investment Trusts?

SMEDLEY

Sold off.

NICK(fearing worse)

The house, the estate??

SMEDLEYMortgaged...and remortgaged.

(Nick's mouth drops)And somehow re-remortgaged!

NICK

What!?!

(CONTINUED)



16.


SMEDLEYFinally, due to inefficiencies inthe late Duke's will, full deathduties will be circa £140,000.

(a beat)It appears your father made someinjudicious gambles. I have not

had the privilege of seeing youraffairs...

(Nick looks bashful)But technically you may be bankrupt.

Nick is paralysed. Smedley hands Nick an envelope.

SMEDLEY (CONT'D)If I may present my firm's bill.Settlement within 30 days would beappreciated. Good day, M'Lord.

As an afterthought, Smedley hands the Country Life back toNick, and promptly leaves - as Dalrymple returns. SeeingDalrymple, Nick becomes frantic.

NICKDalrymple! That letter!?

DALRYMPLEI'm sorry, sir - there is a postalstrike, the box is sealed up.

Dalrymple removes the letter from his pocket. Nick snatches

the letter and tears it up - with great relief. Dalrympleis perceptibly stupefied.


Nick is sitting at his desk looking FORLORN - he isshuffling the bills...accountants, architects, builders,inland revenue. He uncovers the Country Life article:

CLOSE ON: THE PHOTO of the DUCHESS OF MIDLOTHIAN - veryplain and hearty.

NICK (O.S.)

35000 acres!? But nowhere to hide.

Nick pulls a disdainful face, stands up, and throws CountryLife in the bin and sighs.

NICK (CONT'D)There's only one thing I can do.

34 34EXT. DRIVEWAY, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

MR FFITCHE, from CUTHBERTSON Estate Agents, is making finalnotes on his pad, whilst a PHOTOGRAPHER takes photos.

Nick hovers anxiously for the verdict.

(CONTINUED)



17.

34 CONTINUED: 34

FFITCHENotwithstanding the restorativework - now abandoned - I feel afigure not unadjacent to...onepoint eight million would be fullyjustified for such a magnificentestate. With no shortage of

prospective purchasers.

NICKPerfect. The sooner the better.

35 35EXT. HIGH STREET, MUCH STANHOPE -- DAY

Claude is walking along carrying a basket of shopping andhumming contentedly. He comes across a beggar sitting inthe doorway of CUTHBERTSON'S ESTATE AGENTS. He stops andlifts up his cassock to get out some small change...whenhis eyes alight on 'STANHOPE ESTATE FOR SALE' details in

the centre of the window. He stops humming, puts down hisbasket and stands there DISBELIEVING AND NONPLUSSED. Claudeangrily strides off as pedestrians part the pavement forhim. The STUNNED BEGGAR gratefully gathers up Claude'sbasket 'gift'.

36 36INT. STANHOPE CHURCH -- EVENING

Claude pacing furiously...and muttering. Claude kneels infront of the sacristy. A couple of beats, and he looks up -DIVINE GUIDANCE upon his face.

37 37INT. CHURCH, LONDON -- MORNING

Claude walks towards the confessional booth. Claude entersone half of the booth.

38 38INT. CONFESSIONAL BOOTH, CHURCH, LONDON -- MOMENTS LATER

CLOSE ON: CLAUDE, and, through the grill, A WOMAN in theother half of the booth.

CLAUDE...so you see, this will be aproposal of mutual benefits to you

both.(a beat)

My child, you are the only one whocan now save him.

39 39INT. NICK'S STUDY, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

Nick sits at his desk, with the front door bell ringing...and ringing. Nick gets up and leaves the room.

40 40INT. HALLWAY

Nick strides grumpily to the front door.

(CONTINUED)



18.

40 CONTINUED: 40

NICKDalrymple? Dalrymple, where thehell are you?

(now furious)These people are 2 hours late fortheir viewing-

Nick opens the door - STUNNED. Then, Nick smiles.

NICK'S POV: AMANDA, a beautiful woman of 30 packing astunning figure into a sharp, expensive suit. Behind heris a Porsche 911 turbo.

AMANDAAre you ill, M'Lord?

NICKA-Amanda!

AMANDAIt's been far too long, Nick.

NICKErr, yes...I'm er, expecting-

AMANDAA prospective buyer?!

NICKErr...yes.

(a beat, suddenly)

It's not-

AMANDANo, it's not me. I knew I shouldn'thave just turned up out of theblue. I'm sorry. I'll call youif that's okay.

Amanda turns back to her car - Nick follows Amanda's shapelylegs and walk.

NICKNo...yes...no, come in.

AMANDAIf you're not too busy?

NICKYes-no.

Amanda steps forward and takes Nick's hand - Nick's impulseis to kiss her long and deep. Amanda holds Nick close andplants a full, LIPSTICK KISS on Nick's cheek, and thenwalks boldly in.



19.

41 41INT. SITTING ROOM, STANHOPE MANOR -- CONTINUOUS

Amanda clearly still exerts quite a hold over Nick.

NICKYou look...great, better than ever.

AMANDAI did so want to come to the funeral-

NICKIf only I'd known, I'd-

AMANDABut I was in Tokyo covering thatfinancial scandal. Where thePresident disemboweled himselflive on radio!?

Dalrymple appears before Nick, and is curious at thelipstick on his cheek.

NICKYes?

DALRYMPLEThere was nobody at the front door-

Amanda steps out in front of Dalrymple.

AMANDA

Yes, there was. So you're stillalive!?

DALRYMPLE(covering hissurprise)

So I believe, Miss.(a beat)

If that's all, sir.

Amanda drops her coat and Dalrymple just catches it. Nickand Amanda walk off. Dalrymple looks a touch perplexed.

42 42INT. STUDY, STANHOPE MANOR -- LATER

AMANDAI really liked your father.

NICKHe said I should have married you.

AMANDA(teasingly flashesempty ring finger)

You still can!



20.

43 43INT. BEDROOM, STANHOPE MANOR -- LATER

AMANDAYour father's bedroom.

NICKMine, now.

AMANDARemember...this was always a'sporty' mattress?

(Nick is bashful)So...what now?

NICK(towards bed)

You mean you want to ermm...now?

AMANDA

Nick!

Amanda strokes Nick's cheek; he takes in her perfume.

AMANDA (CONT'D)I mean about these renovations.

44 44INT. SITTING ROOM, STANHOPE MANOR -- LATER

Amanda and Nick have glasses of wine.

AMANDA

Let me loan you some money?!

NICKNo!

AMANDAAlright, I'll give you some money.

NICKNo!!

AMANDASpeculate to accumulate.

(off Nick's surprise)Look, I want to do something tohelp, and finances and the cityare my forte...so why don't I knockup some mega-PR on the dashing23rd Duke of Sussex and his estate.Try and get some cashflow in.

NICKI've only got a couple of weeksbefore the Bank issues possessionproceedings.

(CONTINUED)



21.

44 CONTINUED: 44

AMANDAThe editor of the Sunday Timeswill do anything for me. So willthe Telegraph editor. Let's drinkto you keeping the estate...andplaying this baseball game.

NICKLet's just drink to the estate.

They clink glasses, and drink.

AMANDAAnd we'll meet in town this weekend.

45 45INT. PHONE BOOTH, BAR, LONDON -- EVENING

Nick is standing with a large drink in one hand, and thephone in the other, LISTENING:

AMANDA ON ANSWERPHONE (V.O.)"This is Amanda. I'm not in.Leave a message."

Nick looks annoyed, but leaves a message:

NICKIt's me. Are we meeting? I'mgetting drunk. And I'm going home.Call me...or come round.

Nick hangs up and downs his drink.

46 46INT. NICK'S FLAT, LONDON -- AFTERNOON

A pyjamaed, well-hungover Nick staggers to the letterboxand withdraws the Sunday Times. The NOISE of the letterboxREVERBERATES LOUDLY in Nick's head.

47 47INT. SITTING ROOM, NICK'S FLAT -- MOMENTS LATER

Nick walks slowly in carrying the paper. The many sectionssuddenly cascade from Nick's hand - each section hittingthe floor is MORE NOISE. Nick slowly bends down to pick

up the paper - his head is light - and he keels overTHUMPING to the floor. A couple of beats, and he crawlsto the sofa and rests his head there. PEACE.

The PHONE RINGS LOUDLY in Nick's brain - he scrambles toanswer it, to stop the noise.

PAIGE JEFFERSON (V.O.)Hallo, can I speak to the Duke ofSussex?

NICK

Yes, Nick Stanhope here.

(CONTINUED)



22.

47 CONTINUED: 47

PAIGE (V.O.)Pardon me...I want to speak to theDuke of Sussex.

NICKI am Nick Stanhope! Duke of Sussex!What is it?

PAIGE (V.O.)I'm calling from Boston about theGreat Baseball Game...in today'sTimes of London.

Surprised, Nick scrambles open the pages.

PAIGE (V.O.) (CONT'D)Perhaps you'd care to bring a teamover here and play ball?

NICKWho is that?

NICK'S POV: THE ARTICLE about the Great Baseball Game andhis adversary, Wendell Jefferson.

PAIGE (V.O.)Sorry, my name's Paige-

NICKAnd how did you get my number?

PAIGE (V.O.)Well, it's a long story...

Nick homes in on the byline - 'written by AMANDA FAULKS'.

NICK(twigging, aside)

Amanda!(across Paige)

Hey, sweetheart, I've been expectingyou all weekend - come over andwe'll play some indoor games!?You up for sliding into home plate?

Lousy Yank accent, 'Paigey'!

Nick looks pleased, puts the phone down and COLLAPSES.

48 48INT. HALLWAY, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

An impatient AMANDA has waited long enough for Nick.

AMANDAI'm off, Dalrymple - tell Nick tophone me on my mobile.

Amanda marches out through the front door.

(CONTINUED)



23.

48 CONTINUED: 48

DALRYMPLEI'll inform His Lordship. As soonas the estate agent leaves.

The front door CLOSES. A couple of beats, and it OPENS.Amanda REAPPEARS.

AMANDAEstate agent!?

DALRYMPLEAgreeing the sale of the Estate,Miss Amanda.

AMANDAWhy didn't you tell me-forget it!!

Amanda marches towards Nick's study.

49 49INT. STUDY, STANHOPE MANOR -- MOMENTS LATER

The door is flung open, and Amanda enters. Nick is at hisdesk; opposite are Ffitche and a prospective buyer, BOFFO,an aging, portly, heavy-metal US rock singer.

NICK(covering his anger)

Ah, Amanda! Come and meet Boffo.

Amanda strides to the desk and snatches Nick's pen as heis about to sign a document.

AMANDAMy pen - been looking for iteverywhere.

NICKWhat?!?

AMANDANeed to speak to you 'darling'.

(to Ffitche, Boffo)Excuse us just one teency minute.

Amanda leads Nick to a corner. Nick snatches back hispen.

NICKWhat happened to you over theweekend?

AMANDAWhat are you doing selling thehouse?!?

(CONTINUED)



24.

49 CONTINUED: 49

NICKHang on! You march back into mylife, try to organise my future,don't turn up in London, phone mein a crap Yank accent, and finallymarch in on a face-saving deal-

AMANDAStop there! I never phoned you inany accent.

(a beat)That was Paige Jefferson - shephoned me, I gave her your number.

(off Nick's surprise)Did she tell you about themegadollar sponsorship deal thatwill save Stanhope-? Oh my God,what did you tell her?

A distraught Nick and Amanda go to Ffitche and Boffo.Nick and Amanda speak TOGETHER:

NICK/AMANDAShe's...won the Lottery and-The house is on a nuclear landfill-

NICKHer lottery win...will allow us toclear the nuclear landfill.

Nick reaches down for the contract, and TEARS IT UP.

NICK (CONT'D)Have my pen.

Nick ushers a stunned Ffitche and Boffo out of the Study.

AMANDA(as Boffo passes)

Your music's mindless bollocks!

Nick returns to Amanda.

NICK

There's only 12 hours left - I'llphone the Jeffersons right away.

Nick ransacks his desk drawers for Jefferson's details.

AMANDAI don't think that's a good idea-

NICKNo, don't stop me.

AMANDA

Nick, now's not the time-

(CONTINUED)



25.


NICKI'll come clean and say...I washorribly drunk, I'm a recoveringalcoholic and...I need the money!

Nick pulls out Jefferson's phone number. Amanda relents.Nick dials.

50 50EXT. CAFE, LONDON -- MORNING

Amanda and Claude - an odd couple - are sitting andtalking/planning intently.

CLAUDE...Wendell Jefferson was very decentabout arranging the game -considering Nick phoned him at 4amBoston-time.

AMANDAThere are TV rights of $100,000.

(Claude rubs hands)Plus at least $50,000 from sponsorsto the losing team. And the Bankhas given Nick six weeks grace -till the game on July 4th.

CLAUDEGlory be... for small mercies ofthe banking kind.

FLASHBACK TO:

51 51EXT. FIELD, STANHOPE MANOR -- DAY

TIM and HUGH, 30, arrive and shake hands with Nick.

AMANDA (V.O.)Though Nick won't risk playing,he's in charge of the playing side.Tim and Hugh, top-notch cricketingpals, are the first two players.

Nick shows Tim and Hugh a baseball and bat. Tim and Hugh

look amused then surprised.

52 52EXT. CAFE, LONDON -- MORNING

Claude and Amanda are still planning.

CLAUDEOf course, a good baseball Coachis paramount.



26.

53 53EXT. BASEBALL FIELD, LONDON -- DAY

Nick is standing with a BRITISH BASEBALL OFFICIAL watchingbaseball practice.

NICK...a Coach who's superfit.

The Official points to a Coach who is SHORT, FAT AND ABOUTTO HAVE A CORONARY. Nick shakes his head.

54 54EXT. BASEBALL FIELD, SURREY -- DAY

NICK...a Coach who commands respect.

The Official points to a superfit Coach whose every wordis DISREGARDED BY THE UNDISCIPLINED RABBLE on the field.Nick shakes his head.

55 55EXT. BASEBALL FIELD, KENT -- DAY

NICK...a Coach who knows the gamebackwards.

The Official points to a superfit, respected Coach whoseDECISION RESULTS IN AN AWFUL COCK-UP by the players. Nicklooks exasperated. The Official shrugs his shoulders.

NICK (CONT'D)

Look, I want a Coach who's goingto win.

The Official thinks, and his face turns GRIM at the thought.

OFFICIALThere's one guy over here who fitsyour bill.

56 56EXT. BAR, LONDON -- EVENING

A dive in Soho.

OFFICIAL (V.O.)Waldo Thigpen, big-time CollegeCoach from Texas A&M, till he gotsacked big-time! He found refugeover here and gave us one greatseason - we won everything inEurope.

Nick spies a bear of a man at the bar.

(CONTINUED)



27.

56 CONTINUED: 56

OFFICIAL (V.O.) (CONT'D)He's a winner...but in the process,he'll bully, torment, cheat, lie...and worse! And he'll send yourunning for the bottle - only he'llbeat you to it.


Thigpen lords it at Nick's desk, as Amanda and Nick listen.

THIGPENI don't ask for much.

(a beat)Carte blanche, as the Frenchiessay, when it comes to the team.

Nick nods his head.

THIGPEN (CONT'D)And £5,000!

Nick is astonished, but Amanda immediately agrees.

58 58INT. VESTRY, CHURCH, STANHOPE -- DAY

Amanda and Claude are talking.

CLAUDEWith the £50,000 released by theexecutors, we can really get down

to the business...of baseball.

AMANDAI'm in charge of travel,accommodation, players...andplayers' contracts.

Claude delightedly rubs his hands.


Dalrymple is scything the field to a SUPERB FINISH.

A truck delivers a batting cage to the edge of the field.Nick, Tim, Hugh and Thigpen are looking on.

Amanda hands over an envelope with £5,000 cash to Thigpen.

60 60EXT. FIELD, STANHOPE MANOR -- MORNING

THIGPEN PUTS 8 PLAYERS, including Tim and Hugh, throughtheir paces. They vary from enthusiastic to awful.Dalrymple walks by, and views the plays balefully.



28.

61 61EXT. FIELD, STANHOPE MANOR -- AFTERNOON

THIGPEN CHEWS OUT 3 AWFUL PLAYERS and dismisses them.

62 62EXT. FIELD, STANHOPE MANOR -- LATER

THIGPEN WALKS OFF THE FIELD DISHEARTENED, and

surreptitiously takes a hip-flask from his pocket.Dalrymple sidles up and snatches it from him before he cantake a swig. Regardless, Thigpen goes to Nick.

THIGPENI hear you're the best player ofthe bunch I've seen.

NICKWho, me?! I can't play. I haven'tplayed for 9 years.

THIGPENThen, you're gonna have to workdamn hard to catch up!

NICKC'mon, Waldo.

THIGPENThat'll be Coach to you! Remember...carte blanche! I'm gonna giveyou a baseball crash-course.

Nick looks resigned.


Thigpen has put Nick, Tim, Hugh, WOOD, BOOTH and NICHOLSONthrough their paces. As a tired Dalrymple gathers up heavybaseball bats, 5 NEW PLAYERS ARRIVE.


MCCOY, HEAVILY LADEN WITH GOLD JEWELLERY, goes into aprecise and convoluted batting stance.

THIGPEN (V.O.)Skeets McCoy, lead-off batter.

McCoy hits the ball, SPEEDS to first base and beats thethrow.

THIGPEN (V.O.) (CONT'D)Ozzie Houlihan, flamethrower.

HOULIHAN UNLOADS A 100MPH FASTBALL THROUGH the catcher'smitt, DENTING THE BATTING CAGE.

(CONTINUED)



29.

64 CONTINUED: 64

THIGPEN (V.O.) (CONT'D)Crunch Nixon, major league catcher.

NIXON SKILFULLY HANDLES Houlihan's fastball. But with badknees, he has trouble getting out of his crouch.

THIGPEN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

You want to see home runs. MeetRuth Beebee.

An OVERWEIGHT BARREL, BEEBEE, faces Tim's pitch, and unloadsa LONG, LONG HOME RUN over the fence.

THIGPEN (V.O.) (CONT'D)And finally, the cream de la cream -Boddhisattva 'Bodd' Nightingale.

'BODD' NIGHTINGALE SITS SERENELY in the lotus position.Thigpen motions to him and he walks calmly to the mound.

RIGHT-HANDED, he floats a ball over the plate.

THIGPEN (V.O.) (CONT'D)Right-hand knuckleballer.

NICK (V.O.)So what?

LEFT-HANDED, Nightingale floats a ball over the plate.

THIGPEN (V.O.)

You ain't never seen a switch-pitcher!

As the Brits are extremely impressed, Thigpen looks VERYSMUG. Dalrymple continues to be interested in the baseball.

65 65INT. VESTRY, CHURCH, STANHOPE -- DAY

Amanda and Claude.

AMANDAAnd what's more, every single playerhas a bona fide British passport.

CLAUDEPraise be that the Lord providethin our hour of need.

66 66INT. DINING ROOM, STANHOPE MANOR -- EARLY MORNING

Dawn. CAMERA PANS: THE ROOM, now turned into a dormitorywith 10 PLAYERS ASLEEP.

Thigpen appears in the doorway. By his side is Dalrymplewith a dinner gong. Dalrymple is instructed to BANG IT.

(CONTINUED)



30.

66 CONTINUED: 66

The astonished players START TO ROUSE, except forNightingale who is already SITTING MEDITATING.

THIGPEN (V.O.)You'll soon get to think of thisas a deeply spiritual experience.

67 67EXT. FIELD, STANHOPE MANOR -- MIDDAY

NIXON TAKES A WILD PITCH from Tim and stops it in the dirt.His knees have LOCKED UP. Tim comes over to Nixon.

NIXONHelp me up, man.

TIMYou got a cartilage problem?

Tim pulls Nixon up - the awful sound of KNEES CRACKING.

NIXONNo problem - no cartilages!

Dalrymple looks VERY TIRED.

68 68INT. VESTRY, CHURCH, STANHOPE -- EVENING

Amanda and Claude walking along the aisle.

CLAUDENow, my child, how are you and

Nick rekindling the flames?

AMANDAQuite well.

(a beat)In fact...very well.

FLASHBACK TO:

69 69EXT. FIELD, STANHOPE ESTATE -- MOONLIT NIGHT

Amanda and Nick walking romantically arm in arm.

FASTFORWARD TO:

70 70INT. VESTRY, CHURCH, STANHOPE -- EVENING

AMANDAHe's very happy.

CLAUDEAnd grateful?

Amanda nods. Claude is pleased.



31.


Nick, Amanda and Claude walk into the room.

AMANDA(furtively)

Nick, I'm worried about Dalrymple.

Most of the time he's exhausted.

NICKHe's got a heavy routine at present.

CLAUDEWhat are you suggesting, Amanda?

AMANDA(looks aroundfurtively)

Retire Dalrymple.

NICK(slowly shocked)

Dalrymples have been hand in handwith Stanhopes for 3 centuries.

CLAUDEYou may be driving him into anearly grave.

72 72INT. OUTSIDE STUDY

CLOSE ON: DALRYMPLE, taking in the conversation.

NICK (O.S.)He's the last of the Dalrymples.

AMANDA (O.S.)I'm sure a golden handshake wouldsoften the blow.

Dalrymple ages another ten years.


Hugh is hitting the ball well...

Tim is fielding well...

Nick is pitching well...


Beebee walks up to Hugh.

BEEBEEHey man, you wanna play serious

ball you gotta chew tobacco.

(CONTINUED)



32.

74 CONTINUED: 74

Beebee takes some tobacco from a pouch, packs into a chawand puts it into his mouth. Beebee offers some to Hugh.Tentatively, Hugh puts the tobacco in his mouth and startsto chew it. Beebee is chewing contentedly, but Hugh'sface becomes GROSSLY CONTORTED. Disgustedly, Hugh spitssome tobacco out.

BEEBEE (CONT'D)You got the hang of it already,Hughie.

Beebee adroitly spits his juice out; as Hugh starts tochoke out the rest of the tobacco and over his shoes.

BEEBEE (CONT'D)(disgusted)

Maybe not yet.

75 75INT. VESTRY, CHURCH, STANHOPE -- LATER

Amanda meeting with Claude.

AMANDAI thought I'd update you on thetravel plans. You'll be in theadvance party with Nick, and I'llarrive the next day with Thigpen...

(suggestively)And the rest of the team.

CLAUDE

You have done almighty work onNick's behalf, my dear. And youwill be rewarded.

AMANDAWe'll all be rewarded.

CLAUDEThough this is a friendly contest -we must make every attempt to win!

Amanda smiles affirmatively, heads for the door and leaves.

CLAUDE (CONT'D)And win we most definitely will!Praise the Lord.


At final practice, the Brits look proficient; and Beebeeprophetically finishes with a TOWERING HOME RUN.

The players troop from the field. Nick walks with Tim.

(CONTINUED)



33.

76 CONTINUED: 76

NICKThis is the hardest thing I've hadto do. Sack Dalrymple.

TIMLook, he may actually thank you.

Nick's preoccupation intensifies as he approaches Dalrymple,who is handing out refreshments.

NICKDalrymple...?

DALRYMPLEFresh Lemonade, M'Lord?

NICK(shakes head)

Dalrymple...?

DALRYMPLEM'Lord.

NICKErrm, Dalrymple...?

An agitated Claude blusters up to Nick.

CLAUDENicholas, it pains me to say this,but...as the hour of the Great

Game approaches, I am filled withan old fear. The Lord has blessedme, but not...flying. I regretthat I will not be going to Boston.

Claude hands Nick his airline ticket.

CLAUDE (CONT'D)I think the phrase is, 'Give 'emhell'! And Amen.

Nick is flabbergasted, and he flaps the air ticket. Nickreturns to the onerous task of Dalrymple's future.

NICKWhere was I, Dalrymple?

DALRYMPLE'Dalrymple'...sir.

NICKWhat?

(CONTINUED)



34.


DALRYMPLEYou said my name, three times, infact, M'Lord, but you were unableto progress with your processes.

NICK(tetchier)

Yes, yes.(deep breath)

I was about to say, Dalrymple, I-

DALRYMPLEI wish to retire from service.

NICKYou have been in service for many-

(suddenly, shocked)What!? Retire!? You can't retire.Dalrymples don't retire!

DALRYMPLEI will remain, sir, until you finda new man.

NICK(angry, tapping theair ticket againstDalrymple)

I don't want a new man. You aremy man.

Nixon and Beebee walk past - SHOCKED and EMBARRASSED atthe snatch of conversation they hear.

NICK (CONT'D)I want you to stay!

DALRYMPLEBut, sir, I have a little nest egg-

NICK(still tapping ticket)

Bugger your nest egg, Dalrymple!You're coming to Boston with me.

On a trial retirement run.(slaps ticket intoDalrymple's chest)

That's yours.

DALRYMPLE(looks askance atthe ticket)

A ticket for an aeroplane!?

NICKYes, Dalrymple, a ticket-

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)



35.


NICK (CONT'D)(a beat, twigging)

You've never flown before?!

DALRYMPLENo, sir...

(anxiously skywards)

Flying has always been above me.

77 77INT. ARRIVALS, AIRPORT, BOSTON -- DAY

Nick, Tim and Hugh are wheeling trolleys along the Arrivalsstrip - Dalrymple looks OVERWHELMED by the whole experience.

They reach the end, but there is NO ONE to welcome them.

78 78INT. EXIT TO AIRPORT -- LATER

Tim, Hugh and Dalrymple wait patiently at the Exit.

THROUGH THE GLASS, a battered van - with 'CAMBRIDGEHOMELESS' on it - pulls to an abrupt halt outside. Agrungily-dressed woman of 30, PAIGE JEFFERSON, gets outand runs inside carrying an upside-down sign, 'DUKE OFSUSSEX'. As Paige runs past, Dalrymple raises a tentativehand. Paige pulls up, turns back and approaches Dalrymple.

PAIGEYou're the Duke of Sussex?!

DALRYMPLE

No, Miss- Ahh, here he is now.

PAIGEWhat do I call him?

DALRYMPLEIt is customary to address him as'M'Lord' or 'Sir'.

Nick arrives brandishing a set of car keys. Paige smilesapologetically and puts her hand out to Nick.

PAIGE

I'm Paige Jefferson, M'Lord, andwelcome-

Nick eyes Paige up and down in her grungy clothes.

NICKYou?!?

PAIGESomething wrong?

NICK

First, an apology...

(CONTINUED)



36.

78 CONTINUED: 78

PAIGEI'm s-

NICK(across Paige)

And next, what do I do about thecar I've just hired?

PAIGEGet a refund...'M'Lord'!

NICKLook, you don't have to becondescending.

Nick storms back to the desk for a refund.

79 79EXT. AIRPORT, BOSTON -- LATER

Paige opens up her battered van; Nick looks aghast at it.

PAIGENow what?

NICKIt's just...that this isn't whatmy team's used to.

Dalrymple is loading a bag into the van.

PAIGE

Yeah, well, it's not much of ateam.(taking parkingticket offwindscreen)

Ohhh...rats!!(shakes ticket atNick)

This is your...(bites lip, thenspies Dalrymple)

Hey...aren't you going to helpyour...Uncle load the bags?

Paige steps in and helps Dalrymple. Nick looks exasperated.

80 80INT. VAN - MOVING - BOSTON -- LATER

Paige is driving. Nick is beside her. The other threeare crushed in the back of the van.

PAIGESorry about the transport - I guessyou're used to royal carriages.

(CONTINUED)



37.

80 CONTINUED: 80

NICK(regardless)

For your information, Dalrymple isnot a relation - he's been inservice to my family for threecenturies.

PAIGE(shocked)

Slavery was abolished here 150years ago - you oughtta set himfree!

Nick is about to retort when Paige pulls up.

NICK'S POV: 'CAMBRIDGE HOMELESS PROJECT', with a concretesports area where some kids are playing stickball.

Paige unclips her seatbelt, opens the door and gets out.

NICK(aside, to Tim)

God help us - we're gonna to playthem...here!

Having heard what Nick said, Paige reappears, FACE BLAZING.

PAIGEYou really are the most insufferablesnob I've ever met.

NICKMe!? You started all this M'Lordstuff. I'm just Nick.

Tim and Hugh are amused.

PAIGEWell, fine, 'Nick'. Just get outof the van.

They all get out of the van.

PAIGE (CONT'D)

I'm really sorry you aren't playingthese kids - they could whip yourBrit asses...no sweat!

Paige walks over to a Jeep.

PAIGE (CONT'D)But we have to transfer to my Jeep.

81 81INT. JEEP - MOVING - MASSACHUSETTS COUNTRYSIDE -- LATER

Paige and Nick have an uneasy truce.

(CONTINUED)



38.

81 CONTINUED: 81

HUGHThis really is beautiful country,Paige.

Paige smiles politely, and Nick sneaks a look over at her.Quickly, Nick looks away.

82 82INT. PAIGE'S JEEP - MOVING - MARBLEFOOT, MASSACHUSETTS --LATER

Nick is looking fed up with the journey, when Paige turnsthe Jeep past MARBLEFOOT CHURCH and into a Private roadway.

There is a long, winding track with impressive fields andwoods all around. Paige rounds a sweeping bend, and theBrit jaws drop.

NICK'S POV: JEFFERSON MANSION, five times the size ofStanhope Manor. Out front are TV cameras, photographers,

welcome banners and bunting, two dozen people and a beamingWENDELL AND PEGGY JEFFERSON.

Nick - stunned that this might belong to Paige - looksacross towards Paige. Paige has a slight look of self-satisfaction as she brakes the jeep to a stop.

83 83EXT. JEFFERSON MANSION -- CONTINUOUS

The occupants get out of the jeep.

A TRUMPETER blows a fanfare of welcome.

Wendell steps forward and orates:

WENDELLWelcome to the 23rd Duke of Sussexand his advance party. We feelsure that this time around theGreat Baseball Game will be a creditto Anglo-American friendship.

APPLAUSE from the assembled gathering. Wendell stepsforward to shake Nick's hand.

WENDELL (CONT'D)M'Lord, this is my wife, Peggy.

NICKPlease, just call me Nick.

PEGGYWe don't stand on ceremony here,so please make yourselves at home.

NICKThis is all...great...terrific.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)



39.

83 CONTINUED: 83

NICK (CONT'D)But...how did you get TV camerasdown here?

PEGGYI guess it helps that Wendell ownsthe TV station.

Nick stands there QUITE OVERWHELMED. Wendell goes off toshake hands with the other Brits.

84 84INT. NICK'S BEDROOM, JEFFERSON MANSION -- EVENING

Nick enters and finds Dalrymple unpacking.

NICKDalrymple, stop unpacking my bag.

(Dalrymple looks up)I've been thinking, Dalrymple, as

you're a guest here, don't addressme formally.

DALRYMPLE(surprised)

Yes, M'Lord.(off Nick's look)

Yes, sir-Mister Nicholas...(off Nick's look)

Ni-Ni...

NICK

That's all, Dalrymple.

DALRYMPLEVery well, sir-M'Lor-Ni-Ni...

Dalrymple returns to putting clothes way.

NICKAnd Dalrymple...don't unpack mybags.

Dalrymple leaves the room practising "Nick" as he goes.

85 85INT. HALLWAY, JEFFERSON MANSION -- LATER

Nick is walking downstairs and is met by Wendell.

WENDELLNick, my boy, I hope you don'tmind but I've scheduled a TVinterview for you tomorrow morning.You know, just say a few wordsabout the Game...to boost theratings, keep the sponsors sweet.

(CONTINUED)



41.

87 CONTINUED: 87

WENDELL (CONT'D)(at landed helicopter)

In fact, that's the lucky futureson-in-law now.

A suited man, OLIVER FIELDING, runs from the helicopter.The others reach the edge of the patio and are transfixed.

Nick walks forward.

NICK'S POV: A SUPERB, NEWLY-LAID BASEBALL FIELD, below thepatio. The Brits gaze in amazement.

PAIGEIf you can't play ball here, youcan't play at all.

Oliver arrives to hug Paige and kiss her. Wendell isTELLING ALL THE BRITS about the field, but Nick DOESN'THEAR ANYTHING: Nick is torn between looking at the baseball

field and hearing Oliver telling Paige:

OLIVER...Wall Street's been haemorrhagingall week and moi has to mop up thedetritus. Oh well, another dayanother 10G.

WENDELL (O.S.)Nick, come and meet Oliver.

Nick's reverie is broken.

OLIVEROliver Fielding of FieldingInvestment Management.

Oliver and Nick shake hands.

NICKOf course you are.

OLIVERAnd you're the Duke I'm going togive a 50grand cheque to.

Nick laughs bemusedly.

PAIGEOliver, or rather his firm, is theother major game sponsor.

NICK(gulps)

Ohh...yes, of course - that's sovery very...extremely generous.

(CONTINUED)



42.


OLIVERBetween you and me, it's just loosechange. Money can't buy what I'vegot.

And Oliver hugs Paige again.

88 88INT. TELEVISION STUDIO, BOSTON -- DAY

THROUGH THE CAMERA: Nick and Paige with interviewer, TIMMcCARVER.

NICK...so that's the story of the Gamebeing played out over 2 centuries.

(across McCarver)In the meantime, on behalf of myteam, I want to thank the Jeffersonsfor their wonderful hospitality.

PAIGEOf course, if anyone out thereknows the whereabouts of theoriginal documents, we'd be thrilled-

NICK(intervening)

To give away a dozen prime seatsto the game.

MCCARVER

I didn't realise there was seating.

PAIGEFor a...few-

NICK(across Paige)

Hundred. Or more. Who make thehighest bids for this unique game.The money going to charity.

PAIGE(retaliating)

And...will be matched equally byJefferson family.

NICKTotal proceeds go to the CambridgeHomeless Project here in Boston.

Paige looks nonplussed.

MCCARVERNow the original wager was lost -spoils of war...

(CONTINUED)



43.

88 CONTINUED: 88

PAIGEAnd in place of that I propose afriendly wager against my opponent-

NICKOf ten thousand pounds!

PAIGEWhich I'm happy to double.

(quickly)And donate to...a noted Englishcharity.

NICKThe err...RNSFW. So dear toStanhope hearts.

MCCARVERThis really is most generous of

everyone involved.

89 89INT. WENDELL'S OFFICE, TELEVISION STUDIO -- CONTINUOUS

CLOSE ON: TV SCREEN, with Nick and Paige being interviewed.

NICKIn closing, Tim, I must say thatwe are amateur sportsmen here todo our sporting best...and it wouldbe an honour to lose to Paige.

Paige smiles.

PULLBACK REVEALS: PAIGE - not smiling now - and Nick.They have been made to watch a replay of the interview bya glowering Wendell. Wendell switches off the tape.

WENDELLPardon me, but this is just supposedto be a friendly game. And youtwo juveniles escalate it intoGame 7 of the World Series!

NICK

I just got a little carried away.

PAIGEHe riled me. So I had to...

NICKTake the offensive!?

PAIGEWhat have you got to prove, Nick?

(CONTINUED)



45.

90 CONTINUED: 90

NICKEr, well... Thanks.

Nick gets into the jeep.

91 91INT. JEEP - MOVING - BOSTON -- MOMENTS LATER

The silence is broken by Nick.

NICKWeren't you meeting Oliver forlunch?

PAIGEAn important client cropped up.

NICKHe seems...a good chap.

PAIGEYes.

NICKThat's good. Terrific.

(a beat)Look, I don't know if lunch's stillon your schedule...

PAIGEYes, it's still on my schedule.And it's on me. It's the least I

can do. After your generosity inthe studio.

Nick looks at Paige - more kindly - and smiles.

NICKMaybe we ought to call a truce.

PAIGEAt least till the game tomorrow.

Nick puts his hand out. Paige proffers her hand, and theyshake warmly - and the JEEP VEERS: Paige has to turn the

steering wheel quickly to avoid an adjacent car.

92 92INT. JEEP - MOVING - MASSACHUSETTS -- LATER

Paige pointing out beautiful countryside. Nick isimpressed.

PAIGEIncidentally, what's the RNSFW?

NICKThe Royal National Society for

Fallen Womenfolk.

(CONTINUED)



46.

92 CONTINUED: 92

PAIGEOhh! Good.

(a beat)Really?

NICKNo, not really at all. I'll think

up another charity.

Paige laughs.

93 93EXT. COUNTRY INN, MASSACHUSETTS -- LATER

Paige and Nick enjoying lunch and each other's company.

NICK...and then both sides bat again.

PAIGE

And this takes 5 days!?! Crazygame, cricket!

94 94INT. JEEP - MOVING - MASSACHUSETTS -- LATER

Paige and Nick talking easily and laughing.

PAIGE(fishing)

Well, we wouldn't be here...playingthe game if it hadn't been forAmanda phoning me.

NICKOh, she's a terrific girl...beenterrific help...recently...organising things. We're old oldfriends - go back a long way...

Paige smiles knowingly.

95 95EXT. COUNTRYSIDE, MASSACHUSETTS -- LATER

Paige is showing Nick the most spectacular view in theState - but Nick has eyes for Paige.

96 96INT. JEEP - MOVING - JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- LATER

Paige and Nick drive up to the mansion. In the distance,activity at the baseball field is busy, with the Americanplayers taking practice. To the side, seating is beingerected at a pace.

97 97EXT. BASEBALL FIELD, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTS LATER

Nick and Paige walk towards the batting cage. Tim, Hughand Thigpen are watching impressed at the slick

professionalism of the Americans.

(CONTINUED)



47.

97 CONTINUED: 97

Dalrymple is talking (baseball?) to DOYLE, one of theAmerican players. Oliver is at the center of the dozenbystanders explaining the finer points of baseball to aPARTIALLY-OBSCURED WOMAN.

98 98EXT. BATTING CAGE, BASEBALL FIELD, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

SHOT OF: THE AMERICAN PLAYERS - WILSON, STERNHAGEN, MENDOZA,ANDERSON, McGRUDER and 4 OTHERS - going through theirbaseball paces.

One player, Paige's brother, HENRY JEFFERSON, 22, breaksoff and makes his way over to Paige.

HENRYHi, sis.

PAIGENick, this is my kid brother, Henry,

who's got some college buddies tomake up the team.

HENRYHi there.

Henry and Nick shake hands. Suddenly, the obscured womanis revealed as Amanda - more sexily-dressed than ever.She leaves Oliver's side and walks towards Nick. ALL EYESare on Amanda.

99 99EXT. INSIDE BATTING CAGE, BASEBALL FIELD, JEFFERSON

GROUNDS

Doyle - eyes half towards Amanda - makes a monumental hashof a pitch.

100 100EXT. BASEBALL FIELD, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

NICKAmanda!?

Amanda has a gushing, if false, smile.

AMANDA

Nicky dahhling.

Amanda gives Nick a full, long kiss. Paige looks surprised.

NICK(taken aback)

I thought you were arriving thisevening!?

AMANDAUnbelievable! The flight wasbrought forward.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)



48.

100 CONTINUED: 100

AMANDA (CONT'D)Naturally, I demanded compensation -and got it!

(a beat, suddenly)And...I couldn't bear to be apartfrom you any longer, lover.

Amanda kisses Nick again, putting Paige's nose out of joint.Oliver makes his way over, still suited but carrying abatting helmet, gloves and bat.

OLIVERHi, Paige.

(flexing bat)Haven't wielded one of these foryonks.

AMANDAGoodness, you're Paige!? And I

imagined you'd look like KatherineHepburn. When she was younger.

(a beat)I must tear Nick away from you todiscuss plans before tonight'sClambake.

OLIVER(to Paige)

Hey, Paige, undo my tie for me.

A beat, and Paige grabs Oliver's tie-knot and only succeeds

in TIGHTENING IT. Oliver starts to choke.

AMANDA(loudly enough)

What a sweet sweet girl.

101 101INT. OUTSIDE ATTIC, JEFFERSON MANSION -- EARLY EVENING

Wendell is climbing the attic stairs; the light is on.

102 102INT. ATTIC

Wendell's head pops into the attic.

WENDELL'S POV: PAIGE, sitting amongst baseball memorabiliaand ephemera, and holding a photo.

WENDELLYou always used to come up here ifthings didn't go your way.

PAIGEIn the old days. Not now, Pops.

(CONTINUED)



49.

102 CONTINUED: 102

CLOSE ON: THE PHOTO, from 20 years earlier, with 9 year-old Paige in baseball kit and proud 'Coach' Wendell posingat a Little League game.

WENDELLI thought you didn't like to bereminded how I made you play ball.

PAIGEI loved playing ball.

WENDELL(looking at photo)

This must have been one of thelast games you played.

PAIGEThen, Henry came along - the boyyou wanted me to be. I was off

the hook.

WENDELLHoney, that's all in the-

PAIGEThat's okay, Pops.

Paige kisses Wendell.

WENDELLHey, do you remember?

Wendell uses his hands to motion a baseball Coaching sign.

PAIGE(instinctively)

Bunt man to second.

Wendell gesticulates another Coaching sign.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Sac fly - get man home.

WENDELL

Jeez, honey, I must have done ajob on you.

PAIGEI hated to sacrifice my bat. Iwanted to hit homers.

Paige stands up, followed by Wendell. Paige stops at theskylight and looks down.

WENDELL (O.S.)You seem to be getting on better

with Nick today.

(CONTINUED)



50.


PAIGE'S POV: THE BASEBALL FIELD, and Amanda chatting closelywith Nick as they watch practice.

PAIGEMmm, I don't think so.

Paige looks across at Marblefoot Church in the distance.

Trucks have parked outside the church and truckers areunloading large boxes to take inside. Paige looks curious.

103 103EXT. JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- LATER

CAMERA WITH AMANDA, as she walks to a quiet spot. Sheremoves a mobile phone from her pocket and dials.

AMANDAI've arrived and I've been watchingthe opposition practise.

104 104INT. CHURCH, MARBLEFOOT

Claude is speaking on the phone:

CLAUDEWhat is your verdict?

AMANDA (V.O.)The Americans are very good.

CLAUDELord give us strength.

AMANDA (V.O.)But I'm supremely confident aboutour gameplan.

CLAUDEHow I wish I were with you to cheeron our stalwarts.

AMANDA (V.O.)I believe you may be able to watchthe game on TV.

CLAUDEIf the Lord so provideth, my child.

105 105EXT. JEFFERSON GROUNDS

AMANDAThe gameplan begins tonight.

106 106EXT. GROUNDS, JEFFERSON MANSION -- EVENING

AN OPEN-AIR CLAMBAKE as the CAMERA TRACKS: ALL THE MAINCHARACTERS seated around tables.

(CONTINUED)



51.

106 CONTINUED: 106

WENDELL (O.S.)...and so in deference to thefriendship between Abner Jeffersonand the 17th Duke of Sussex, Ifinally have to say...

SHOT OF: WENDELL, standing, finishing his speech:

WENDELL (CONT'D)"What took us so long to get thisgame on the road?" Enjoy theclambake, enjoy the game.

Wendell raises a glass to Nick, who returns a raised glass.APPLAUSE. And the clambake begins. Amanda gives Nick avery public congratulatory kiss.

Nick looks across to Paige, who appears uncomfortably'dolled' up (in response to Amanda's previous vampish image) -

and gives an awkward look back. (On this occasion, Amandais dressed in an understated fashion, cutting the groundbeneath Paige's over-glamorous feet) Oliver notices Nicklook at Paige.

Amanda goes to lead 5 ALLURING BRIT 'WENCHES' wheelingalong barrels (of cider) towards the American players.

AMANDASome traditional fayre...

CLOSE ON: THE BRIT WENCHES, and the keen Americans.

AMANDA (CONT'D)No! Not the girls.

Amanda fills a tankard with cider.

AMANDA (CONT'D)A refreshing apple drink known as...scrumpy.

The American players, enthusiastically yet NAIVELY partakeof Amanda's bounteous gifts.

CLOSE ON: NICK, making his way over to talk to Paige.

DALRYMPLE (O.S.)Some wine, M'Lord.

NICKYes, thank you, Dalrym-

Nick turns, astonished, to see Dalrymple carrying outbuttling duties.

NICK (CONT'D)

You're not meant to pour me wine.

(CONTINUED)



52.


THIGPENQuite right. Shame on you,Dalrymple, Stanhope's in stricttraining. But I'll have some.

DALRYMPLENo, Mr Coach. I have strict

instructions.

Thigpen looks around - sees a smiling Amanda, the instigator -and stalks off.

NICKI told you, you're on holiday.

DALRYMPLEThere was a shortage of staff, andMr Wendell offered me temporaryemployment...at $500 per night.

(Nick astonished)Approximately ten times the rateyou pay me, sir.

NICKWell, errm...carry on, Dalrymple.

Nick makes another break for Paige and heads her way.Dalrymple continues to quietly notice Nick's interest inPaige. Six foot from Paige, Nick opens his mouth to speak.

OLIVER (O.S.)

Hey, Nick old boy...

Nick turns to face Oliver.

OLIVER (O.S.) (CONT'D)Sorry I haven't handed over thegame cheque yet. You weren't in ahurry for it?

NICKWell, actually-

OLIVER

I tell you what - I'll hand over adummy cheque to you before the TVcameras before the game...but latertonight I'll wire the cash to yourbank to England.

(across Nick)I insist.

NICKThat's great, Oliver. Terrific.

A FANFARE IS HEARD. Nick turns to see a makeshift stage,

and a TABLEAUX of the events of 1775 is about to begin.



53.

107 107EXT. STAGE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTS LATER

A MODEL BOAT 'ROCKS' ON THE 'WAVES'. ENTER STAGE LEFT,TWO COLONIAL AMERICAN RASCALS - ONE is holding a CADDY,the SECOND is a look-out. ONE tips the caddy and TEACASCADES into the 'water below'. There are CHEERS fromthe Americans assembled.

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, TWO ENGLISH ARMY OFFICERS. Mainly BOOSfrom the audience. EXIT STAGE LEFT, the Rascalsfleetfooted, with the Army Officers in SLUGGISH PURSUIT.There is APPLAUSE, and the BOAT disappears STAGE LEFT.

108 108EXT. CLAMBAKE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

CLOSE ON: THIGPEN, going cold turkey, whilst everyone elsedrinks.

109 109EXT. STAGE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTS LATER

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, unsteadily, the BACKDROP OF A FIELD.

ENTER STAGE LEFT, 'Abner Jefferson' with a rake and TWOFELLOW PLAYERS. Mainly CHEERS from the crowd.

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, the two Army Officers and the '17thDuke of Sussex'. Predominantly BOOS from the crowd. Sussexbrandishes a bag of cash. LOUD CHEERING.


Nick looks at Paige.

111 111EXT. STAGE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

Jefferson and Sussex shake hands. CHEERS from the audience.

JEFFERSONLet us...play ball!

SUSSEXQuite so, dear cousin.

All the players pick up bats and balls. UPROARIOUS CHEERS

from the entire audience.


Paige returns Nick's look, and a half-smile.

113 113EXT. STAGE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

The SOUND of a GUN-SHOT. The players scatter. Sussexreappears with a sign, 'THE END'. APPLAUSE. Jeffersonreappears with a sign, 'UNTIL TOMORROW'. MORE APPLAUSE.



54.

114 114EXT. CLAMBAKE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- LATER

The clambake feast is in full swing. Now, Henry hassuccumbed to Amanda's tempting scrumpy brew.

CLOSE ON: THIGPEN, now desperate for a drink, finds anabandoned and full glass. He swigs it. He spits it out.

THIGPENWaa-terr!!

CAMERA PANS: THE AMERICAN PLAYERS, drinking the cider (too)freely.

CLOSE ON: NICK, finally catching up with Paige, and a littlefazed by her glamorous look.

NICKHallo there.

PAIGEHi.

NICKI wanted to talk-

AMANDA (O.S.)Nick, darling...

Nick turns to see Amanda.

AMANDA (O.S.) (CONT'D)Go and talk baseball with the boys.We're going to talk fashion.

Frustrated, and with a PAT from Amanda, Nick slopes away.

AMANDA (CONT'D)You look...well, words for oncefail me.

PAIGE(regardless)

I don't trust you, Amanda.

AMANDAI don't know what you mean. Justlooking after the team, sweetie.Or is it Nick you mean?

PAIGENick's not interested in you.

AMANDAAnd I suppose you are!?

(CONTINUED)



55.

114 CONTINUED: 114

PAIGEI don't like the way you treathim.

AMANDAOh, and you know best?!

PAIGEWell, he doesn't need a bit-

AMANDALet me tell you about NicholasStanhope. He is his father's son,and his father's father's son...atrue Stanhope - a mess of emotions.True, he's charming, handsome,noble, but he flatters to deceive,and deceive he will, and lie, andmore...especially where money

matters. And...he's penniless.Why do you think he's here?

Paige tries not to look shocked at this litany. Amandaturns to go.

PAIGEThanks for the fairy tale.

AMANDA(turns back)

By the way, honey, Nick needs a

strong woman who can play alongwith his little games, and I'vealways had a hold on Nick.

PAIGEThen there's nothing to worry aboutfrom wimpy little old me.

AMANDAYou see, he's just a little boy.

PAIGEAnd you're obviously incapable of

treating him like a man.

Amanda is lost for a retort, so Paige flashes a big smileand walks off towards the house. Amanda's ire is cooledonly when she sees Mendoza take a long slurp of cider.Mendoza KEELS OVER. Amanda now looks satisfied.

115 115INT. HALLWAY, JEFFERSON MANSION -- MOMENTS LATER

On her own, Paige is looking at herself in the hall mirror;obviously unhappy at her appearance. She turns to goupstairs when Dalrymple turns the corner from the kitchen

and bumps into her sending a jug of orange juice over her.

(CONTINUED)



56.

115 CONTINUED: 115

Paige exclaims.

DALRYMPLEOhh, Miss Paige, I'm most awfullysorry-

PAIGE

(shaking her dress,then smiles)

That's okay. Really.

Paige walks off upstairs smiling. Dalrymple is mortified.

116 116EXT. CLAMBAKE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- NIGHT

The clambake is winding down. The guests are driftingaway. Wendell and Peggy are retiring to bed.

117 117EXT. JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTS LATER

The largest of the Americans, Anderson, is standing infront of a tree with a glass of cider in one hand andpissing - a VOLUMINOUS AMOUNT. Passing by, a still-soberThigpen is DESPERATELY SEARCHING OUT a drink.

118 118EXT. CLAMBAKE, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- LATER

Amanda is looking very pleased at the extent of her plan.She watches: Wilson in a drunkenly serpentine walk towardsthe house. Then, she notices Oliver walking towards thehouse, and decides to follow him. As she follows, she is

pleased to see Doyle falling over DRUNK.

119 119INT. KITCHEN, JEFFERSON MANSION -- MOMENTS LATER

Dalrymple is looking slightly doleful with a trayful ofempty drinks as Paige enters - she is wearing a simple,casual outfit with little makeup.

PAIGEHey, Dalrymple-

DALRYMPLEMiss Paige, I cannot apol-

PAIGELook, that was okay. In fact, Iwas on my way upstairs...to change.

DALRYMPLEIf I may say so...your new look issimply perfect, Miss Paige.

PAIGEWhy, thank you.

(CONTINUED)



57.

119 CONTINUED: 119

DALRYMPLENaturally, you may require a second,more subjective, opinion?!

PAIGEWell, Calvin Klein's not here.

DALRYMPLE(in all innocence)

In fact, I was thinking of MisterNicholas...whom I recently spiedon the patio.

PAIGEMmm...I could possibly make adetour. Thank you, Dalrymple.

Paige smiles, and leaves.

CAMERA WITH PAIGE, as she walks along the hallway and pastWendell's Study.

120 120INT. WENDELL'S STUDY, JEFFERSON MANSION -- MOMENTS LATER

Oliver and Amanda are sitting on the leather sofa.

AMANDAI never thanked you yesterday fortaking the time to explain therules of baseball yesterday - youmade it so simple yet exciting. I

can't wait to see you play.

OLIVER(slurred)

Ohh, I'm not playing. I'm...well,I'm sponsoring the game - FieldingInvestment Management.

Amanda slides nearer.

AMANDADon't you think it's hot in here?

Through the crack in the door, Paige passes and stops toLOOK IN just as Amanda undoes Oliver's tie.

AMANDA (CONT'D)So...you're Oliver Fielding -marketmaster extraordinaire. Witha $3billion portfolio.

OLIVER$700zillion as of last week. It'sall in futures and options.

(CONTINUED)



58.

120 CONTINUED: 120

AMANDA(salivating atzillions)

Oh, I've always been into options...and futures.

Amanda strokes Oliver's neck. Paige storms off.

OLIVERAmanda, that was nectar you gaveme to drink.

Oliver undoes his tie more, and then KEELS OVER. Amandasmiles, strokes his hair and leaves.

121 121EXT. JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTS LATER

Anderson still stands in front of the tree PISSING, anddrinking his cider.

122 122INT. KITCHEN, JEFFERSON MANSION -- LATER

Dalrymple is washing dishes at the sink. THROUGH THEWINDOW, Dalrymple sees Nick with Paige on the patio outside -they are talking easily.

AMANDA (O.S.)Have you seen, Nick?

Dalrymple turns to see Amanda.

DALRYMPLE(evasively)No, Miss.

Amanda walks over. Dalrymple manoeuvres to block her view.

AMANDAThis has been a most wonderfullysuccessful evening.

DALRYMPLEQuite so, Miss.

AMANDAYou know your problem, Dalrymple?You think you're too smart.

Dalrymple relaxes as Nick and Paige walk out of sight.

DALRYMPLEIf that were so, Miss, I wouldn'thave thought being 'smart' wasever a problem.

(CONTINUED)



59.

122 CONTINUED: 122

AMANDAThis time tomorrow I'll be an airticket away from being a wealthyDuchess of Sussex. And you...willbe history.

Amanda leaves the kitchen. Dalrymple APPEARS to be in

control; but his hands start to SHAKE. Suddenly, Dalrympledrops a crystal glass to the floor and it SMASHES.Dalrymple looks horrified.

At the DOORWAY to the kitchen, Thigpen stands there.

THIGPENAlright, Dalrymple, you win. I'moff to bed.

Dalrymple bends down to pick up the pieces of glass.

CLOSE ON: THIGPEN, as he stops dead spying a sign, 'WINECELLAR'. Anticipating riches, Thigpen opens the door.

123 123INT. CELLAR, JEFFERSON MANSION

Thigpen walks down the stairs. At the bottom, Thigpen'smouth gapes open.

THIGPEN'S POV: A CELLAR FULL OF WINE-RACKS.

Thigpen rubs his hands in anticipation.

124 124INT. KITCHEN, JEFFERSON MANSION -- MOMENTS LATER

Dalrymple finishes picking up the pieces of glass, andstands up. He sees Nick and Paige in view again - theystart to TALK - APOLOGIES...SMILES...CHAT...LAUGHS. AndBLOOD STARTS TO SEEP from a glass-cut on Dalrymple's hand,but he doesn't notice or flinch. Dalrymple gives a faintsmile as Nick and Paige walk off together.

125 125INT. MARBLEFOOT CHURCH -- LATER

A few candles light the quiet church. A light shines inthe Vestry. The door opens, and Amanda walks in. She

walks to a pew, and kneels. Amanda starts to pray.

126 126EXT. PATIO, JEFFERSON MANSION -- LATER

Nick stands wistfully in the moonlight looking at Paige asshe leaves to go inside, to bed.

127 127INT. WENDELL'S STUDY, JEFFERSON MANSION -- EARLY HOURS OFMORNING

ALL IS QUIET. Oliver is flat out on the sofa.

The fax machine starts to ring. There is a CONNECTION.

(CONTINUED)



60.

127 CONTINUED: 127

CLOSE ON: THE FAX PAPER, as it spews out, reading, '1775wager documents are stored in the Marblefoot Library vaults.A friend.'

128 128EXT. JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- EARLY MORNING

Paige has had a sleepless night, and is wandering in the

gardens. Paige hears a faint TWANG followed by a THWACK,and walks towards the RECURRING SOUNDS.


Paige turns the corner.

PAIGE'S POV: NICK IN THE BATTING CAGE, taking battingpractice from the automatic pitching machine.

Paige watches a couple of Nick's erratic hits. Nick sensesPaige's presence and turns to her.

NICKGood morning.

PAIGEHi.

THE AUTO-PITCHER FIRES ANOTHER BALL - NICK MAKES ANOTHERFEEBLE SLICE.

NICKI just...wanted to get in some

practice.

PAIGESo, you had trouble sleeping?

THE NEXT BALL - NICK COMPLETELY MISSES IT.

NICKRidiculous! It's you. Fazing me!

PAIGEMy guess is...you're wearing thewrong colour socks...or your

buttocks are out of alignment...oryou haven't read the poems of WaltWhitman today.

Nick looks incredulous. A BALL WHISTLES PERILOUSLY PASTHIS HEAD.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Course, you're choking the bat...

NICKOh, really!?

(CONTINUED)



61.

129 CONTINUED: 129

PAIGELeaning your hips too far back...

NICKWhat the hell do you know!?

ANOTHER BALL - NICK SWATS AND MISSES.

PAIGEAnd you're swinging far too early.

NICKGo away!

PAIGEReally?

NICK(a beat)

No.

PAIGEI shouldn't consort with the enemy,but...

Paige walks into the cage.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Concentration and relaxation - adifficult combination.

Paige gently adjusts Nick's grip on his bat.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Kinda like making love.

Paige alters Nick's buttocks. Nick breathes deeply.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Oh my! Your breathing's so erratic.

Paige adjusts Nick's knees and feet.

PAIGE (CONT'D)

Stand tall. Now, relax...fromyour toes...work up through yourankles...and knees...so difficult.

Paige wraps herself around Nick as she alters his stance.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Then, up to your head - let itfloat...and then down to yourbreastbone...and then everythingshould tumesce in the middle...andcome out through your bat.

(CONTINUED)



62.


NICK(overpowered)

I...love...the smell of yourperfume.

PAIGEAmazing...I'm not wearing any.

NICKMmm...that's what I love.

Nick turns round to face Paige. Nick TENDERLY KISSES Paige.A BALL WHISTLES past them. The kiss lingers - ANOTHERBALL zooms past. Paige breaks away. They both sigh, relaxand smile.

PAIGENow... Keep your eye on the ball.

Nick steps up to the plate and readies himself. The nextball heads Nick's way - Nick CONNECTS EASILY AND THE BALLARCS way into the distance.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Way to slug, bambino.

Nick leaves the cage and goes over to Paige.

NICKYou're some instructor.

NICK KISSES PAIGE PASSIONATELY.

PAN TO: AN UPSTAIRS WINDOW, Dalrymple looks down on them.

130 130INT. WENDELL'S STUDY, JEFFERSON MANSION -- MORNING

Wendell has the fax sheet in his hand, and is putting thephone down. He strides purposefully to the door, whichsuddenly OPENS. Nick and Paige, brimming over with romanticintentions, face Wendell.

PAIGEMorning, Pops.

WENDELLMorning, honey.

NICKI wonder if this might be a goodmoment to talk to you aboutsomething rather remarkable-

WENDELLNo.

Nick and Paige are surprised.

(CONTINUED)



63.

130 CONTINUED: 130

WENDELL (CONT'D)We have to go to the Library.

Wendell hands Paige the fax message.

131 131INT. TUNNEL, LIBRARY, MARBLEFOOT -- MORNING

The Head Librarian, MARTHA BRAITHWAITE, is walking alongwith a lamp. She comes to a FORK in the tunnel.

BRAITHWAITEIn the days of the Colonial War,many a young man's life was savedto fight another day.

Braithwaite swings the lamp to THE LEFT; and then round toilluminate the expectant faces of Wendell, Nick, Paige, ahung-over Henry and a cool Amanda.

BRAITHWAITE (CONT'D)This way...

Braithwaite walks on TO THE RIGHT, and the others follow.

BRAITHWAITE (CONT'D)Became a treasure trove, known butto a few.

Braithwaite comes to a heavy wooden door. She unlocks itand leads them in.

132 132INT. VAULT

Around the vault are many ARTIFACTS and cobwebs. In thewall are several boxes with illustrious names from Americanhistory - Washington, Adams, Franklin and then Jefferson.

WENDELLMy box!

Wendell removes the box and blows the dust away. The othersgather excitedly.

BRAITHWAITE (O.S.)

That's Thomas.

Braithwaite appears with a SMALLER BOX.

BRAITHWAITE (CONT'D)This...is Abner's.

Wendell reverentially takes his box - which is SIGNIFICANTLYDUST-FREE - and puts in on the table. Braithwaite findsthe correct key from a chain of a dozen; Wendell takes thekey and opens the box. FIVE HEADS LOOK IN.

(CONTINUED)



64.

132 CONTINUED: 132

CLOSE ON: THE INNARDS OF THE BOX - 2 yellowed parchments,which Wendell removes.

CLOSE ON: THE FIRST DOCUMENT (from the opening scene).

WENDELL(reading)

"On this 20th day of April 1775,we do hereby enter into a contract,legal bound, between two peacelovingneighbours and friends - AbnerJefferson, landholder, and CecilSussex 17, Ambassador - who haveengaged in an InterNation Game ofBaseandBall. Consequentially, wehave indulged a wager of this littlefield against 100 of His Majesty'sgold sovereigns plus the hand inmarriage of His Lordship's daughter.

Beneath are signed the names of Sussex, Jefferson, Stimpsonand Dalrymple with a wax seal.

Nick and Paige look at one another, amused. Wendell handsNick the second parchment, which he reads:

NICK"Finding that this war goesexceeding bad and, under greatdanger to my person, I return toMarblefoot prior to my upcoming

posting as Ambassador to France.Fearing the Rebels will plunderall properties and finances, it ismy sorrowed duty to remove mysovereigns. But this is no cowardlydeed - to which end I shall investthem in the 'Fenway Fund' in thehope that in whatsoever time thisGreat Game shall be played, so thevictor shall be rewarded according.4th July 1776 - Cecil Sussex"

Nick is moved. Paige touches his arm. Amanda notices

with a steely gaze.

133 133INT. OUTSIDE LIBRARY, MARBLEFOOT -- LATER

Out into the bright sunlight - as Henry puts his shadesback on again - Wendell holds the parchment

NICKThis can't be legal.

WENDELLNot after all these years.

(CONTINUED)



65.

133 CONTINUED: 133

HENRYLet's play...next week...

AMANDAYou're not trying to wriggle out,are you?

HENRYNext year...

PAIGEThe game goes on.

NICKBut we should disregard the wager.

Paige nods.

AMANDA

(pointedly)Even the marriage clause?

(a beat)I have to go to the airport -collect the team.

Wendell looks perturbed.

WENDELLWhaddya say, son?

HENRY

I need a hundred aspirin.

134 134INT. CHURCH, MARBLEFOOT -- MIDDAY

PANNED SHOT OF: A FULL, ANTICIPATORY CONGREGATION, as thePRIEST's footsteps are heard ascending into the pulpit.

CLOSE ON: THE PULPIT, and CLAUDE.

CLAUDEWelcome, my new friends inMarblefoot. Today I wish to takeas my text...

(ironically)The Parable of the Nine FoolishVirgins, and how this might applyto the events of today.

There is the MUFFLED RING of a phone from Claude's cassock.Claude mutters an apology and hurries to the Vestry.

135 135INT. VESTRY, CHURCH, MARBLEFOOT -- MOMENTS LATER

Claude answers the phone...listens...smiles...and beams.

(CONTINUED)



66.

135 CONTINUED: 135

CLAUDEYes, my child, you have doneexceedingly well. I'll see youshortly.

Claude clicks off the phone. Suddenly, he LEAPS AND PUNCHESTHE AIR triumphantly, as, from the heavens above, there is

the SOUND of the HALLELUJAH CHORUS.

Claude recomposes himself and walks back to the church.

136 136INT. BUS - MOVING - MARBLEFOOT OUTSKIRTS -- MOMENTS LATER

Sitting at the front of the bus, Amanda, with a barely-concealed grin, pockets her mobile phone. Amanda turnsround and looks to the back of the bus.

AMANDA'S POV: 14 BASEBALL PLAYERS, 6 of whom have not beenseen before. The bus passes a sign reading 'MARBLEFOOT'.

137 137EXT. BASEBALL FIELD, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- LATER

Dalrymple is sitting on a motor-mower, giving the baseballfield a final trim - he is in clover.

138 138EXT. CHURCH, MARBLEFOOT

The parishioners are leaving the church, as Claude bidsthem farewell. The British bus deliberately slows as itapproaches the church, and Claude walks forward and'blesses' Amanda and the players.

139 139INT. WENDELL'S STUDY, JEFFERSON MANSION -- EARLY AFTERNOON

Wendell is holding the wager parchment in one hand, andspeaking into the phone in the other hand.

WENDELLIt's probably an Indian contractbut I need to know if it's stilllegal.

BILL TUCKER (V.O.)Wendell, it's Sunday, couldn't you

phone me at the office tomorrow?

WENDELLAnd I need to know where theoriginal game was played.

The other phone rings - WENDELL PICKS IT UP.

140 140INT. KITCHEN, BILL TUCKER'S HOUSE, BOSTON

BILL TUCKERI'm not a cartographer-

(CONTINUED)



68.

147 147INT. BATHROOM

Henry opens the shower door - Wilson and McGruder aresobering up under the shower - and pushes Bateman in.

BATEMANShouldn't I shower after the game?

148 148INT. MILLER HAYWOOD'S OFFICE, BANK, WASHINGTON DC -- LATER

The office of the First National Bank - the workaholicMILLER HAYWOOD, Financial Advisor is at his desk. Thephone rings.

BARTON WARING (V.O.)Thought I'd catch you at the office,Haywood.

MILLER HAYWOOD

Oh, hi, Waring.

149 149INT. GARDEN, BARTON WARING'S HOUSE, BOSTON

BARTON WARINGYou're just the guy who can findout about...the Fenway Fund?

150 150INT. MILLER HAYWOOD'S OFFICE, BANK, WASHINGTON DC

Haywood puts down the phone and looks over at a photo ofNORVILLE STURGES, First National Bank President; and

Sturges's words echo:

STURGES (V.O.)"Don't ever bother me, Haywood,unless my life depends upon it!"

Haywood ponders DEEPLY whether he should phone Sturges.

151 151INT. CELLAR, JEFFERSON MANSIONS -- LATER

Dalrymple is carrying a box of empty bottles down into theWine Cellar. Dalrymple goes to put the empties down, whenhe notices Thigpen, propped up against a wine rack,

comatose, with EMPTY classic wine bottles around him.

152 152EXT. DINGHY - MOVING - BALTIMORE -- LATER

A MAN is rowing furiously towards a LARGE CABIN CRUISER.

The dinghy reaches the cabin cruiser, and the rower handsa mobile phone to a CREW MEMBER, who walks along to thelounging fat-cat NORVILLE STURGES, and hands him the phone.

STURGES(into phone)

Who's this?

(CONTINUED)



69.

152 CONTINUED: 152

MILLER HAYWOOD (V.O.)Haywood, sir...Miller Haywood.

STURGESHaywood, I'm relaxing. With myfamily.

A COUPLE OF BIKINI-CLAD WOMEN cavort around the deck.

STURGES (CONT'D)I guess you got nothing better todo on 4th of July?


Sweat is pouring from Haywood's brow.

MILLER HAYWOODNo-sir, sorry, yes-sir - it's just

it's about this errm...Fenway Fund.I wondered if you-

154 154EXT. DECK, CABIN CRUISER, BALTIMORE

Sturges sits upright, deadly serious.

STURGESWhat do you know about the FenwayFund, Haywood?

MILLER HAYWOOD (V.O.)

Nothing, sir - that's why I'mphoning you, sir.

STURGESI've never heard of this FunwayFend or whatever. But, Haywood,if you value your job?


MILLER HAYWOODOh I do, yes sir, most def-

STURGES (V.O.)Then, this conversation neverhappened!?

MILLER HAYWOODNo, of course, thank you-

The phone is dead. Haywood looks mighty relieved.

156 156INT. BEDROOM, CABIN CRUISER, BALTIMORE -- MOMENTS LATER

Sturges goes to a wall-safe, opens it and removes a phone

from inside. The phone has a single RED BUTTON on it.

(CONTINUED)



70.

156 CONTINUED: 156

Sturges sighs and presses the button. The phone BUZZES...

157 157INT. SMALL ROOM, THE WHITE HOUSE, WASHINGTON DC

THE PHONE CONTINUES TO BUZZ as the CAMERA pans the room -it is full of dusty FILES, BOOKS, an OLD TYPEWRITER andthe BUZZING RED PHONE on a dusty table. The door is flung

open - 'FENWAY' is painted on it - and in rushes BOGGS,who stands there looking incredulously at the phone.

BOGGSOh my God!

Boggs walks apprehensively towards the phone.

PULLBACK REVEALS: A ROOM...in the WHITE HOUSE.

PULL OUT TO SHOW: AERIAL SHOT OF THE WHITE HOUSE, with thePHONE STILL BUZZING. Suddenly, it stops:

BOGGS (V.O.) (CONT'D)Err, hallo...

158 158INT. OUTSIDE STUDY, JEFFERSON MANSION -- LATER

Nick and Paige are hand in hand, again ready to tell Wendellthat they are in love. Paige opens the door.

159 159INT. STUDY, JEFFERSON MANSION

Wendell is on the phone, pacing and wound up. Nick and

Paige enter.

WENDELLSo you're telling me it's legal!?

The other PHONE RINGS. Paige goes to answers it.

BILL TUCKER (V.O.)The original wager holds.

WENDELLDammit. And that original field?

BILL TUCKER (V.O.)As yet I can't pinpoint it.

PAIGE(into phone)

Paige Jefferson.

WENDELLBill, I need to know where!



71.

160 160INT. FENWAY ROOM, THE WHITE HOUSE

Boggs is running a tape of Nick and Paige's TV interview,and speaking into the phone:

BOGGSThis is Martin Boggs of the

President's staff and I have totell you you must cancel yourfriendly baseball game.

(across Paige)At all costs!

161 161INT. STUDY, JEFFERSON MANSION

From behind the sofa, OLIVER SURFACES - well hungover.

PAIGEMr Boggs, I don't know who you are

or which 'President' you represent-

BOGGS (V.O.)The President. Of the U-

PAIGE(across Boggs)

But this is our game, and, as yousaid, only friendly - and it goesahead. In one hour!

Paige smiles at Nick. Through the window, in the

background, the bus with the Brit players has drawn up inthe drive. Wendell leaves the room.


BOGGSI really think-

Boggs has the phone snatched away by a Blues Brothers clone,AGENT KOWALSKI, with a smirk.

KOWALSKIListen, Miss Jefferson, this is

Agent Kowalski, CIA...

The phone is DEAD.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)What the hell!?!

Kowalski slams down the phone, and jabs a finger at Boggs.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)Your ass is on the line, Boggs.



72.

163 163EXT. GROUNDS, JEFFERSON MANSION -- MOMENTS LATER

Nick and Paige follow Wendell towards the bus outside themansion. Amanda steps provocatively down, followed by TheREGENCY REDCOATS, newly-uniformed and highly professional.Henry is greeting the players. Nick is surprised to seethese new players.

AMANDANick, we lost some players to...avirulent stomach bug. But wemanaged to get some standbys.

Amongst the Brit players there is a smattering of Americanaccents; and the 6 American players who have been soberedup begin to recognise some of these new Brit players -HENDRIX, FOX, WAGNER, WILLIAMS, GIBSON and JACKSON. Henrypasses this information on to Wendell, as Oliver staggersout of the mansion looking like a zombie.

164 164EXT. GROUNDS, JEFFERSON MANSION -- MOMENTS LATER

THROUGH TV CAMERA: TIM MCCARVER, starting his broadcast:

MCCARVER(to camera)

This is an historic sporting dayfor the United States and England,Boston and Sussex, the Jeffersonsand Stanhopes. United over twocenturies by the prospect of a

friendly baseball game torn asunderby War, these two great familiesare about to finally rejoin battlewith bat and ball.

McCarver moves towards Wendell, Paige, and Nick.

MCCARVER (CONT'D)The prime mover in this challengeis Wendell Jefferson...

WENDELL(accusingly, to

Nick)I understand you've loaded yourteam with ringers!?

PAIGEIs that true, Nick?

MCCARVERAnd his daughter, Paige.

NICKNo. They're ermm, late replacements-

(CONTINUED)



73.

164 CONTINUED: 164

MCCARVERThis is the 22nd Duke of Sussex.

HENRY(at Nick)

It's all clear - the whole plot iscrystal now!

MCCARVERAnd that was Henry Jefferson.

PAIGENick, tell me Henry's wrong?

NICKI don't really know-

TV PRODUCER (V.O.)(through earpiece)

Time for an ad-break, Tim.

There is the sound of an AMBULANCE SIREN in the background.Everyone turns.

CAMERA PANS TO: AN AMBULANCE, appearing along the drive.

MCCARVER(to Producer)

Screw the ads - stay on this.

NICK

(to Amanda)What's going on, Amanda?

AMANDAAs you've said all along, we'vegot a game to win.

HENRY(to Nick)

You think you're smart with yourclassy name, M'Lord - my arse!You're an arrogant, deceitfulsonofabitch!

(to Amanda)And you're just a bitch!

Oliver rolls up oblivious to the fracas.

OLIVERHey, there, Nick.

MCCARVEROliver Fielding, of FieldingInvestment Trust.

(CONTINUED)



74.


OLIVER(to camera, to Nick)

As co-sponsor of this great gameFielding Invest is proud to handover this cheque for $50,000.

(aside)Sorry I didn't quite get round to

wiring the cash to England.

Henry snatches the cheque before Nick is able to take it.Then, Paige takes the cheque from Henry. Oliver looksbemused. Paige tears up the cheque. Nick looks distraught.

WENDELL(to Nick)

I don't often do this, but I'vemisjudged you. I guess you justwanted to play hardball.

Wendell sweeps a distressed Paige away.

MCCARVER(through earpiece)

And, in the background, I hear theBritish Coach Thigpen is beingrushed to hospital...in a coma.

In the background, THIGPEN IS BEING WHEELED INTO THEAMBULANCE; as the spectators start to make their way in.

MCCARVER (CONT'D)

Now for an ad-break, but you won'tmiss any of the action here.

165 165EXT. BOSTON REBELS DUGOUT, BASEBALL FIELD -- LATER

There are 6 BOSTON REBELS, and in no fit state to play.

HENRYOkay, we've got 6 of us standing.

Doyle vomits into a bucket. McGruder is falling asleep.A uniformed Wendell arrives, with Oliver, also in uniform.

WENDELLThere's 8 now. Oliver hasn't playedfor a few years.

(Oliver holds up 17fingers)

But he's a Rebel.

Henry pats him warmly.

HENRYDad, you can't play - it's gonnabe rough out there.

(CONTINUED)



75.

165 CONTINUED: 165

WENDELL(determined)

There's always room for a wilyfox. I'll just play a couple ofinnings.

Amanda appears.

AMANDALook, I understand a couple ofyour team are...incapacitated - weseem to have a few spare players,if you'd-

PAIGE (O.S.)Stuff it, Amanda!!!

Amanda turns to see Paige dressed in 'Coach' uniform.

OLIVERSomeone tell me what the hell'sgoing on?

AMANDAIf it isn't the new BaseballCommissioner!?

PAIGEGet out of my dugout!

AMANDA

So much for a gift horse.(aside to Oliver)See you...Tiger.

Amanda turns and leaves laughing. Paige is about to throwa ball at Amanda...but HER HAND IS RESTRAINED BY WENDELL.

166 166EXT. REGENCY REDCOATS DUGOUT, BASEBALL FIELD -- MOMENTSLATER

Nick is addressing the team:

NICK

Look, I think the best thing wecan do is...postpone the game,till...tomorrow...until theirplayers recover. Besides which,without that cheque, it looks likeI've lost my estate.

There is a STONY RESPONSE from the players.

NICK (CONT'D)And we don't even have a Coach.

(CONTINUED)



76.

166 CONTINUED: 166

AMANDA (O.S.)Oh, but we do.

Nick turns to see Amanda...and Dalrymple, who is attiredin a 1930's Coach outfit.

NICK

Dalrymple!?! What...the hell doyou know about baseball?!

DALRYMPLEM'Lord, as each Stanhope heir becamesteeped in the myth of the Greatgame, so too did each Dalrymplebecome an acolyte of the game ofbaseball. This game fulfills adutiful honour not only to coachthe team but to your late father.So, M'lord, if you'd be so kind as

to take your place on the bench.

NICKCome on, Dalrymp-

DALRYMPLEThat's Coach Dalrymple...sir.

Nick looks amazed. Dalrymple turns to the other players.

167 167INT. FENWAY ROOM, WHITE HOUSE -- MOMENTS LATER

The President - trying to get his zipper done up - marchesin with his aide, SKINNER. Kowalski is on his mobile phone,whilst an anxious Boggs is glued to a TV showing the game.

PRESIDENTOkay now, what's all this ruckusover a stupid baseball game?

KOWALSKIMr President, the repercussions ofthis game being concluded arecatastrophic.

Kowalski hands the Fenway Fund folder to the President.

PRESIDENTWell, give me a couple of hoursand I'll get back to you.

KOWALSKISir, the teams are taking the field.The game will only last 3 hours.

IN THE BACKGROUND, ON THE TV SCREEN: A large crowd loudlycheers the 8 ragged BOSTON REBELS take to the field. The

pitcher, WILSON, takes to the mound and starts to practise.

(CONTINUED)



77.

167 CONTINUED: 167

PRESIDENT(regardless)

In the meantime, let's keep it alllow-key and not get panicked.

Exasperated, Kowalski turns away and dials his mobile phone.


The Redcoats leadoff batter, Skeets McCoy, arrives at theplate to BOOS, and goes through his elaborate routine -much to the annoyance of Wilson and his catcher, STERNHAGEN.

Sternhagen takes Paige's sign. A mean-looking Wilson windsup...and DELIVERS. The ball SMACKS McCoy on the shoulder.

169 169EXT. REDCOATS DUGOUT, BASEBALL FIELD

The furious Redcoats pile out of the their dugout.


The players square up to one another. The umpires hurriedlystep in to try and calm things down, as McCoy trotsflamboyantly to first base.

171 171INT. OVAL ROOM, THE WHITE HOUSE, WASHINGTON DC -- LATER

The President and Skinner finish reading the Fenway Fundfolder. They both look stupefied.

PRESIDENTSkinner, we have to...take action.

SKINNERYes sir.

The President is UNAWARE that, in the background, SEENTHROUGH THE FRENCH WINDOWS, a helicopter with rotor bladesturning is on the lawn.

PRESIDENTRight, let's go to contingencyplan number 1. We'll start a war -

somewhere. In Central America!?

SKINNERIt need only be a small war...in asmall place.

THROUGH THE WINDOW, Agent Kowalski runs to the helicopter.

PRESIDENTThen, how about...Western Samoa?

(CONTINUED)



78.

171 CONTINUED: 171

SKINNERThat may be too far away.Newfoundland's a lot nearer.

THE PRESIDENTSkinner, you're a marvel.

To the side, there is a TV SCREEN: Ruth Beebee CLOUTS aHOME RUN scoring Hendrix from 2nd. Redcoats lead 3-0.

172 172EXT. BUILDING OVERLOOKING THE WHITE HOUSE, WASHINGTON DC

BACK VIEW: AN MI6 AGENT, with binocular, earpiece and phoneis watching the helicopter rise into the skies and headnorthwards. The Agent speaks into the phone.

MI6 AGENTHallo, sir...

173 173INT. OFFICE, 10 DOWNING STREET -- EVENING

The PM's Secretary, ROBERT SANDERS, picks up the phone:

SANDERSI see. Very well.

Sanders puts down the phone, walks to the adjoining doorand knocks on it. He opens the door.

174 174INT. PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE, 10 DOWNING STREET

The Prime Minister is sitting relaxed on the sofa strumminghis guitar and singing 'Stairway to heaven'.

SANDERSPrime Minister, if I may interrupt?The Americans are taking executiveaction.

PRIME MINSITERThen, Bob...

(sings)"We must take some executiveaction".


Bottom of the 1st, Redcoats lead 3-0. Houlihan takes tothe pitching mound - to UNIVERSAL BOOS.

To APPLAUSE, Mendoza, walks to the plate for the Rebels.

176 176EXT. REDCOATS DUGOUT

Dalrymple sends Nixon the coaching signs.



79.


Houlihan blows Mendoza away with 3 blazing fastballs.

178 178INT. WHITE HOUSE HELICOPTER - MOVING - OVER PENNSYLVANIA

Kowalski is sitting over the pilot's shoulder.

PILOTConfirmation, Agent Kowalski -Operation Pinch-hit is under way.

KOWALSKIGreat!

ON TV SCREEN: MCGRUDER, blown away by Houlihan's fastballs.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)Jeez, I could do better than these

guys.

PILOTAgent, ETA is 30 minutes.

KOWALSKII wanna be there in 25 minutes.

KOWALSKI AND TV SCREEN: Mendoza is blasted away by Houlihan.The crowd is QUIETENED.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)

Make that 20 minutes!

THE PILOT GIVES THE HELICOPTER MORE THROTTLE sendingKowalski back into his seat.

179 179EXT. REDCOATS DUGOUT -- MOMENTS LATER

The Redcoats return to the dugout in HIGH SPIRITS. Theplayers HIGH-FIVE with Dalrymple.

CLOSE ON: NICK, who is in some mental turmoil.

180 180INT. OPERATIONS ROOM, AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL, BOSTON -- LATER

CLOSE ON: TV SCREEN, top of the 3nd inning, and Houlihanhits an easy TRIPLE to right field, scoring Shuttleworthand Jackson. The Redcoats lead 6-0.

PULLBACK REVEALS: 2 AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS, ANDERS andMARSHALL, engrossed in the game.

MCCARVER (V.O.)Even the pitcher can hit. TheseBrits are taking the game to us.

A third controller, PACKARD, interjects.

(CONTINUED)



80.

180 CONTINUED: 180

PACKARD (O.S.)Hey guys, you watching this?

ANDERSIt's a slugfest.

PULLBACK REVEALS: PACKARD, at her traffic screen.

PACKARDNo. This unauthorised craft.

All 3 controllers look at Packard's screen.

MARSHALLIt's another of our choppers.

PACKARDNo, it's not ours.

ANDERSThen, whose the blazes is it?

181 181INT. MI6 HELICOPTER - MOVING - OVER PENNSYLVANIA

Behind the Pilot are two MI6 agents, BLENKINSOP and HUXLEY,trying to make head and tail of the baseball game ON SCREEN:Henry Jefferson walks to the plate.

BLENKINSOPI say, Huxley, what's this allabout?

HUXLEYBeats me, old man.

ON SCREEN: Henry is easily thrown out at first base.

BLENKINSOPIt's just not cricket.

HUXLEYIt most certainly isn't.

ON SCREEN: The end of the 4th inning, 7-1 to the Redcoats.

BLENKINSOPExcept our chaps are winning.

HUXLEYBravo!

The pilot turns back to the agents.

PILOTWe're about 30 minutes away.

(CONTINUED)



81.

181 CONTINUED: 181

BLENKINSOPNo hurry, old chap.

182 182INT. ROOM, CHURCH -- MOMENTS LATER

Wearing a Redcoats cap, Claude is ecstatically watchingthe TV SCREEN: Jackson scores another run for the Redcoats.

Amanda enters the room.

CLAUDEI'm so glad you could join me.You have done a wonderful job.

AMANDAClaude, I'm worried about Nick.

CLAUDEFear not - his interest in theJefferson girl has passed.

AMANDANo. He's reluctant to play.

CLAUDEI'm sure that Nicholas will playhis part when called.

ON SCREEN: The Redcoats lead 9-1.

CLAUDE (CONT'D)What a slaughter of the innocents.

183 183EXT. REGENCY REDCOATS DUGOUT, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTSLATER

Dalrymple congratulates Jackson as he trots in. Dalrymplewalks over to Houlihan, with his arm in an ice bucket.

HOULIHANSorry, Coach, I'm finished.

Dalrymple walks off. He looks at the list of pitchers onhis SCOREPAD: Dalrymple's finger points to STANHOPE.

Dalrymple looks over at a disconsolate Nick, and reluctantlyhands the baseball to Booth.

184 184EXT. BOSTON REBELS DUGOUT, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

The Rebels troop wearily in to an exasperated Paige.

PAIGEThis is pitiful. They're scoringat will. We're not even gettingthe basics done. They've got anew pitcher.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)



82.

184 CONTINUED: 184

PAIGE (CONT'D)Let's do the simple things thisinning - get men on base.


Bottom of the 6th, and BOOTH ON THE MOUND.

FIRST UP, MENDOZA GETS ON BASE...

FOLLOWED BY OLIVER...

FOLLOWED BY HENRY...

With bases loaded, the heavy hitter, ANDERSON, takes striketo STIRRING ORGAN MUSIC and CHEERING. TENSION MOUNTING.Anderson gets the SIGN from Paige to 'SWING AWAY'. Andersonsettles at the plate. Booth looks anxious as he looks atNixon the catcher.

ANDERSON'S POV: BOOTH prepares to go into his wind-up. Inthe distance, AROUND BOOTH'S HEAD, A BRIGHT SPOTLIGHT SHINESinto Anderson's eyes and DAZZLES HIM.

The ball unloads. Anderson makes an erratic swing andpops the ball HIGH UP. Anderson is easily caught out.The Rebels are FURIOUS.

186 186EXT. ADJACENT FIELD, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTS LATER

CAMERA WITH KOWALSKI, as he runs from the helicopter towards

the baseball field; he is confronted by Boston Rebelsheading his way and after his blood. Kowalski slowsdown...but the Rebels are soon in his face. Anderson gripshim by the neck, and LIFTS HIM UP.

HENRYYou jerk...you moron - what d'yathink you're doing?

KOWALSKI(throttled)

Gotta...stop...the game.

WENDELLHe wants to stop the game.

PAIGEWell, you succeeded. And you costus a dead-cert grand slam!

Kowalski gurgles indecipherably, arms waving madly.

HENRY(prodding a bat inhis face)

Now what, buttbrain?

(CONTINUED)



83.

186 CONTINUED: 186

PAIGEI think he's choking, Henry.

A purple-faced Kowalski nods. Anderson drops him to theground. The Redcoat players arrive.

KOWALSKI

I'm from the President's office.

Kowalski flashes his CIA/WHITE HOUSE ID.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)This game must stop.

PAIGEWe may be losing, but we're noquitters.

KOWALSKI

Then...under joint British-Americanlaw, as yet unrevoked...the winnerof this game will take the FenwayFund. You may want to know moreabout it.

The Rebels are shocked. The Redcoats are cool.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)(off no response)

Well, then I'll tell you. Afterthe War of Independence, the 17th

Duke of Sussex's Fund wasexpropriated by the first Americangovernment, and invested...andreinvested etcetera...in primeproperties...in Boston...stretchingall the way down to New York...toWashington DC. These propertiesare now worth billions of dollars.

PAIGESo, if they win?

KOWALSKI

Amongst other properties, theBritish will own not only thisproperty here...but the White House!

There is UPROAR from the Rebels. There are CHEERS andCATCALLS from the Redcoats. There is some MUTUAL SHOVINGbetween opposing players.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)So, the game must stop.

(CONTINUED)



84.


HOULIHANSure thing, mate - it's gone pastthe 5th inning. So, we win!

NICKHang on a-

PAIGE(across Nick)

My word is my bond - this game,our game, goes on!

Ecstatic resounding CHEERS from the Rebels. Until Dalrymplesteps forward.

DALRYMPLEIf I may intercede, the fact isthat...baseball is originally ourgame. It began as a precursor to

cricket and was written about byJane Austen, and my ancestor, MerlinDalrymple, who proscribed the firstBook of Rules in 1733.

CHEERS from the Redcoats. Nick looks shocked.

OLIVERYou're lying.

DALRYMPLESir, it is not in a Dalrymple's

remit to lie. It was thus so.

Dalrymple holds up his tatty 18th Century Book of Rules.

SHUTTLEWORTHSo...you Yanks hijacked our game!?

The opposing sides move closer, goading each other. Inthe foreground, Nick, Paige, Dalrymple and Kowalski standapart from the fracas. A BRAWL ensues. Nick looks appalledat this escalation.

CLOSE ON: KOWALSKI, exasperated, reaches into his jacket

and pulls out his GUN. He looks as if he may shoot someone -but he points it skywards and FIRES OFF 3 SHOTS.

SILENCE.

187 187INT. FENWAY ROOM, THE WHITE HOUSE -- MOMENTS LATER

The President is watching the MELEE on the TV screen.Boggs is at the computer and is accessing the mainframe.The full extent of the Fenway Fund is revealed ON SCREEN:the HISTORY, GEOGRAPHY and FINANCES. The dollar isplummeting against the pound. All this is revealed before

the boggled eyes of the President and Boggs.

(CONTINUED)



85.

187 CONTINUED: 187

THE PRESIDENTI'll be known as the President...wholost the White House.

ON SCREEN, an iconised BRIT BULLDOG has infiltrated thesystem and is placing UNION FLAGS on American properties.


The umpires clear the baseball field for the restart ofthe game. Oliver hovers as Paige rounds on Nick.

PAIGEYou've been triply duplicitous.

NICKPaige, it's not what you think-

PAIGE

Your overwhelming greed impelledyou to resurrect the wager.

NICKPaige, it's not-

PAIGEYou sent over a bogus team.

From a distance, Amanda has arrived from the church and iswatching - blithely satisfied at Nick's predicament.

NICKPaige, it's-

PAIGEBut worst of all, you infiltratedmy emotions. What a fool I'vebeen.

NICKPaige-

PAIGESo much for English fair play,

'M'Lord'!!

Paige turns on her heels and storms away, followed by animpressed Oliver. Satisfied that Nick has been fullyblamed, Amanda walks back towards the Church. Peggy watchesand notices.

189 189EXT. SIDE OF BOSTON REBELS DUGOUT, JEFFERSON GROUNDS --MOMENTS LATER

Paige is walking determinedly, with Oliver in her wake, asKowalski, still holding his gun, blindsides her.

(CONTINUED)



86.

189 CONTINUED: 189

KOWALSKISo, you're not going to cancel thegame, Miss Jefferson?

PAIGECor-rect!

Paige walks into the dugout.

KOWALSKIThen I have to take further action.

OLIVERShoot some of those so-called Brits -perfidious bastards.

Kowalski holsters his gun and speaks into his phone:

KOWALSKI

Commence Operation Pinch-Hit.

190 190EXT. REGENCY REDCOATS DUGOUT, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

Nick walks over to Dalrymple.

NICKThis has been really underhand.

DALRYMPLEYes, sir.

NICKAnd shameful.

DALRYMPLEYes.

NICKI fear I'm responsible for allthis, Coa-Dalrymple!

DALRYMPLEYes.

NICKFor once, you don't have to be sopolite, Dalrymple.

DALRYMPLEI'm not - you are responsible.

NICK(taken aback)

I haven't always done what's beenexpected of me. I haven't alwaysbeen a good son.

(CONTINUED)



87.

190 CONTINUED: 190

DALRYMPLEFarbeit from me to disagree.

NICKDisagree, dammit, disagree!

(a beat)Father would never have gone in

for this deceit in the name offriendship.

Nick turns away.

DALRYMPLEMister Nicholas...

(Nick turns back)If I may venture...I believe yourfather would have been proud of aStanhope who did his best...andfairly. As for me I have to execute

the duty to your father.

NICKDalrymple...

(a beat)You look bloody ridiculous!

DALRYMPLEOf course, sir.

Dalrymple walks off. Nick stands there - the scales startto fall from Nick's eyes.


Paige has gathered her players around her.

PAIGEOkay. You came here to play thisgreat game of baseball.

(a beat)Baseball!? Baseball is...aPresident tossing out the firstball of the new season...and a bigfat guy with a bulbous nose and

matchstick legs trotting home oneof his 714 homer runs.Baseball's...a skinny schoolboyplaying catch with his dad on aMississippi farm dreaming of adiamond where boys drench themselvesin magic. It's a proud black manwith an unquenchable spiritundefeated by any other team or bylife. There's a guy in Marblehead,who remembers Honus Wagner hittinga triple 72 years ago.

(MORE)

(CONTINUED)



88.

191 CONTINUED: 191

PAIGE (CONT'D)Every skill is measured by heroicnumbers - 56,70,406,755,2632.Every struggle is a simple one -between bat and ball; yet thismost democratic of sports is ascomplex as the American spirit it

symbolises.

The players become emotional, including Kowalski.

PAIGE (CONT'D)Baseball is truly timeless,reinventing itself from grandfatherto father to son. It isinextricable with our country'shistory, preserving one of ourgreat traditions as a nation and atouchstone for the American way of

life. We nurtured this game inits infancy so that it becameAmerica's game...our game. Let'splay our game!

KOWALSKI(overcome)

I want to play our game!

Oliver is swooning over Paige. The players WHOOP, aboutto run out to the field, when a second helicopter swoopsover the field. The players look up.


THE HELICOPTER HOVERS over the field and 3 MEN DESCEND theladder to the ground.


PAIGEAnother of your cute stunts?

The 3 men run to the dugout, as Kowalski gets kitted up.

KOWALSKIOperation Pinch-Hit!

The Rebels now realise that they have CAL RIPKEN JR, GREGMADDUX and KEN GRIFFEY JR on the team. There is AWEDSILENCE from the Rebels players. Kowalski has a self-satisfied look.


Top of the 7th inning. The Rebels take the field toCHEERING from the crowd. MURMURS SPREAD THROUGHOUT THE

CROWD as they recognise Greg Maddux walking to the mound.

(CONTINUED)



89.

194 CONTINUED: 194

MCCARVER (V.O.)And to pitch for the Rebels...GregggMadduxxx!!!

A beat, and then TUMULTUOUS CHEERING. McCoy walks to theplate. The Redcoats look STUNNED.

First pitch - STRIKE. Second pitch - a high ball an inchfrom McCoy's nose sending him bobbing backwards. CHEERS.Third pitch - STRIKE.

MADDUX'S FOURTH BALL IS ANOTHER STRIKE. A stunned McCoywalks back to the dugout.


Ruth Beebee faces Maddux - and is BLOWN AWAY...

Likewise, Fox doesn't have a chance against Maddux.


Fox returns to the dugout. The Redcoats look worried.


Maddux is congratulated by fellow Rebels.


Dalrymple looks round to hand the ball to Nick - NO SIGN

of him. Dalrymple again hands the ball to Booth.


Bottom of the 7th, and Doyle at the plate STRIKES OUTagainst Booth.

MCCARVER (V.O.)Next up for the Rebels...CaaalRipkennn!!!


Ripken easily INSIDE-OUTS a stand-up double.


Paige sends a coaching 'sign' to Sternhagen.


Sternhagen lays down a perfect bunt, Ripken goes to 3rd.The Redcoats are rattled.

MCCARVER (V.O.)

And now...Ken Griffey Juuuniorrr!!!

(CONTINUED)



90.

202 CONTINUED: 202

Griffey walks to the plate. CHEERING.


Dalrymple 'signs' to walk Griffey - to UNIVERSAL BOOS.


Griffey stands watching Booth's nervous and erratic pitches.Griffey looks over to Paige.


Paige 'signs' to Griffey.


On the 4th erratic pitch, Griffey steps over and SMASHESTHE BALL for a home run. The Rebels pull up to 4-9.


Griffey trots into the dugout. Paige high-fives Griffey.

PAIGETerrific play, Junior.

GRIFFEYTerrific call, Coach.

208 208INT. MI6 HELICOPTER - MOVING - OVER BOSTON

Huxley and Blenkinsop are watching the TV screen, and theREPLAY of Griffey's homer:

HUXLEYWell played, that man.

The pilot turns back to Huxley and Blenkinsop.

PILOTNew instructions - we have to stopthe game whilst we're ahead.

BLENKINSOPDamned strange rules, what!?

Huxley nods.

209 209EXT. BOSTON REBELS DUGOUT, JEFFERSON GROUNDS -- MOMENTSLATER

Paige is getting a drink.

NICK (O.S.)Paige...can we talk?

(CONTINUED)



91.

209 CONTINUED: 209

Paige turns to see Nick.

PAIGEYou're trespassing.

NICKPaige, it's me who's been duped

all along - not just you.(off no response)

I've taken myself out of the line-up.

PAIGEI've got a team to coach - tovictory!

NICKWhat more proof do you want?

Behind them, ON FIELD, the mercurial Maddux strikes outanother Redcoat.

PAIGE(yells)

Way to go, mad Dog.

NICKDon't you see - Amanda's plottedthe whole event?

(a beat)Okay, don't talk to me. But I

don't care about the game.(a beat)I only care about you. And I'llprove it.

Nick storms off. Steadfast, Paige carries on coaching. Acouple of beats, and Paige turns to see Nick's back view.Nick is stopped by Peggy. Peggy directs Nick to the church,and he walks off in that direction.


The unhittable Maddux strikes out Jackson.

211 211EXT. CHURCH, MARBLEFOOT -- MOMENTS LATER

Nick approaches the church.


Paige is looking preoccupied.

PAIGEHenry, take over for an inning.

Paige leaves the dugout.



92.

213 213EXT. CHURCH, MARBLEFOOT

Nick at a window, cleans it with a sleeve and looks inside.

NICK'S POV: CHURCH INTERIOR, which is empty.

A dismayed Nick is about to turn away, when, out of the

corner of his eye, he spies Amanda walk from the sacristyto go inside the confessional booth.

Nick walks round to a side entrance to the church.

214 214EXT. JEFFERSON GROUNDS

CAMERA WITH PAIGE, as she walks towards the church. Paigenotices Nick entering the side entrance to the church.


Nick walks tentatively to the confessional booth...andopens the doors - NO AMANDA! Disbelieving, he looks allaround - there's no way out. Nick walks around the 3 sidesof it. Paige looks in from the window.

Nick goes back into the booth and starts to press thepanels. He stops and thinks. He looks at the seat whichhe taps - it is HOLLOW. He lifts up the seat...revealingsteps leading down.


Dalrymple goes to Nightingale sitting in the lotus position.

DALRYMPLEExcuse me interrupting your karma,Mr Nightingale, but I would likeyou to close out the game.


Bottom of 8th, Bodd Nightingale walks coolly to the mound.

With his right arm, he MESMERISES Sternhagen OUT...

With his left arm, he PARALYSES Mendoza OUT...

Wendell marches determinedly to the plate...

Wendell closely watches Nightingale's RIGHT ARM knuckleballflutter past. A LEFT ARM knuckler wafts in to Wendell.


Henry sends Wendell the 'sign'.



93.


Wendell settles down, watches the next ball intently...andlays down a bunt between Nightingale and first base. AsNightingale runs to retrieve the ball, Wendell DELIBERATELYSMASHES into the Nightingale. Nightingale is KNOCKED OUTCOLD. Wendell gets on first base.


As Nightingale is carried into the dugout, Dalrymple looksat his pitchers list.

CLOSE ON: THE LIST, and the only pitcher left is STANHOPE.

DALRYMPLEStanhope...Stanhope!?

No sign of Nick. Reluctantly Dalrymple sends out Tim.


Paige walks up to the confessional booth, and opens thedoors - no Nick! Paige is curious.


Ripken hits the hapless Tim for a homer scoring Henry andAnderson. The Rebels pull back to 7-9.


Top of the 9th. Maddux remains supreme as he strikes outNixon. Beebee walks to the plate.


Dalrymple gives Beebee the 'sign'. Beebee looks surprised,then goes into his stance.

Maddux pitches - Beebee deliberately lets the bat fly fromhis hands - the bat flies towards Maddux and SMASHES INTOHIS SHINS. Maddux is poleaxed. The Rebels are furiousand jostle Beebee who remains calm.


Dalrymple looks pleased.


McGruder comes on to pitch for the Rebels against McCoy.

227 227EXT. OUTFIELD

Kowalski's phone rings in his pocket.



94.


Mccoy hits the first pitch HIGH into the outfield loopingtowards Kowalski, who answers his phone. McCoy starts totear round the bases.

KOWALSKI

(into phone)Bandits at 6 o'clock, ehh!?

The ball drops to ground 10 feet from Kowalski.

KOWALSKI (CONT'D)Okay then, chopper up now.

Griffey runs to the ball, and throws to home plate.

229 229EXT. HOME PLATE

Mccoy just beats Griffey's throw to home to score an inside-the-park homer. The Redcoats stretch to 10-7.

230 230INT. TUNNEL, CHURCH -- MOMENTS LATER

In a dim-lit tunnel, Nick is slowly feeling his way along,unsure of where it will lead.

A HAND reaches out and TOUCHES Nick on the shoulder hejumps. Nick turns to see Paige.

NICK

What the hell are you doing here?

PAIGEThat's rich. You obviously knowyour way around here.

NICKSo do you. I just got lucky.

PAIGEYou can't just 'get lucky'...findingthis!?

NICKAmanda's behind this.

PAIGEHey, everyone's to blame...but you!

NICK(walking on)

I haven't got time to argue.

PAIGEHey, come back here. I'm not

finished with you.

(CONTINUED)



95.

230 CONTINUED: 230

Nick ignores Paige and disappears around a corner. Paigehurries after him. She turns the corner and bumps intoNick, who has reached a dead end.

PAIGE (CONT'D)You really are the most intolerable,conceited, pig-brained-

NICKSshhh!!

PAIGEDon't tell me to-

NICKShut up, Paige! Listen!

Paige is nonplussed, but stays silent. Nick puts his earto the dead end and hears MUFFLED NOISE. Nick feels the

wall. Paige listens, and finds...a LEVER. Nick pulls it.A door OPENS - and light floods the tunnel. Paige is open-mouthed.

NICK'S POV: A CRYPT ROOM, with computers, TV screens,faxes, phones...and Amanda and Claude.

NICK (CONT'D)Claude!?

CLAUDEAhh...Nicholas, my son.

NICK(across a curiousPaige)

This is my uncle...who was afraidof flying!

CLAUDEDivine strength is mine to givesayeth the Lord.

Amanda goes up to Nick and caresses him.

AMANDACome to see how your masterplan isbeing so perfectly executed.

NICKIt's not my plan-

AMANDAEver the modest one, Nicky.

PAIGEWhere did all this equipment come

from?

(CONTINUED)



96.


CLAUDE(looking up)

'He' provideth.

AMANDAWith Nick's help.

CLAUDEOnly my dearest nephew could devisesuch a daring edifice to reclaimwhat is rightly his.

NICKIt's a lie - it's all lies. Don'tyou see, Paige, it's them.

CLAUDE(off TV screen)

Mr Maddux has been dispatched.

ON TV SCREEN: The Redcoats extend their lead to 13-7.

ON ANOTHER SCREEN: The Pound soars against the dollar.

PAIGEWhat I see, Nick, is what I didn'twant to see all along. Amandawarned me - you were only everinterested in money and soon you'llbe richer than Bill Gates.

Claude and Amanda smile. Nick is exasperated, exhausted.

NICKOhh, come on, Paige-

Paige spots a powerpoint with a tangle of leads to it anddeliberately looks at Nick.

PAIGEWhat if I were to...

(grabs lead)Pull this from the wall?

Nick does not react.

NICKDo it.

Paige looks at Claude who looks at Amanda, who remainscool. Paige takes up the slack on the lead.

NICK (CONT'D)Go on. Pull it!

Paige relaxes her grip and then stiffens ready to pull.

(CONTINUED)



97.


CLAUDENo! Don't!

AMANDAShut up, Claude.

CLAUDE

I was the architect of all this -I came to Boston 5 years ago and Ifound the original documents.Then, it was a matter of planningeverything, and waiting for-

NICKFather to die!

CLAUDE(regardless)

And you want to know why?

AMANDANo!

CLAUDEYou two will get inheritances, butthe pitiful younger Stanhope...getsnothing! Just 35 years in thatcramped, flea-ridden church with asecular pittance and a miserablecongregation. Whilst your fatherfrittered away a fortune - women,

gambling, bad deals, more women...I would have built upon aninheritance.

Nick grabs the lead from Paige.

AMANDANick, no-o-o!

CLAUDE(regardless)

I would have travelled the world,given money to charities, wintered

in the West Indies, had numerousaffairs...

Nick yanks the lead from the wall - A TABLE LIGHT GOESOUT.

CLAUDE (CONT'D)And soon I will!!

Nick grabs Paige's hand and rushes her from the room.



98.

231 231EXT. WHITE HOUSE HELICOPTER - HOVERING - ABOVE BASEBALLFIELD -- MOMENTS LATER

The Pilot looks across to the Pilot of the secondhelicopter, also hovering.

PILOT

Standby for bandits.


The Redcoat players prepare to go out for the final inning.Dalrymple is confirming that Nightingale is still concussed.Nick, with Paige in tow, runs up to face Dalrymple.

NICK(breathless)

Dalrymple... Claude and Amandaplotted this...from the start!?

DALRYMPLESo I believe, Sir.

The players are smiling, aware of the plan.

NICKSo you were all in on it!?

TIMAmanda was very persuasive.

NICKYou all knew there were millionsat stake!?

HUGHSorry, Nick.

DALRYMPLEUntil Agent Kowalski availed me, Iwas unaware.

NIXONEveryone's on a share of Claude's

half.

TIMExcept Dalrymple.

The players make their way from the dugout onto the field.

DALRYMPLE(to Nick)

Nothing can now halt 200 years ofdestiny, M'Lord.

Paige rushes from the dugout. Hendrix walks out to pitch.



100.


Claude, looking anxious, joins Dalrymple.


McGruder hits an easy ground ball to Fox at 2nd; but a

bobble sends the ball through his legs. CHEERS.


Scheming all the while, Claude departs with a bat.


Anderson smashes the next pitch straight back at Nick, whomakes a stunning bare-handed return catch. 2 On, 2 out.


Griffey leaves the on-deck circle and walks to the plate.

248 248EXT. SIDE OF REBELS DUGOUT, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

Claude places the bat close to the Rebels bat-boy.


The bat-boy hands Claude's bat to Henry, who walks to theon-deck circle.


Griffey is walked at the plate - to BOOS from the crowd.


Henry makes his way to the plate to RESOUNDING CHEERS.Oliver goes to the on-deck circle.


Nick and Henry have an INTENSE FACE-OFF, going from 0-1...TO1-1...TO 2-1...TO 2-2...TO 3-2. TENSION mounts.

SLOW MOTION: Nick pitches to Henry. Henry sweetly crunchesthe ball high over the fence for a HOMER and rounds thebases. The Rebels triumph 14-13.

The Redcoats are drained. Henry steps on home plate andSNEERS at a disconsolate Nick.


Celebrations are unbounded for the Rebels...except for aquiet Paige, who nevertheless is congratulated by Rebels.



101.


Claude steps forward to speak to the Head Umpire. Claudepoints to Henry's bat.


The President and Boggs are hugging each other as the TVSHOWS: Celebratory fireworks lighting up the sky.

256 256EXT. HELICOPTER - HOVERING - ABOVE BASEBALL FIELD

ANGLE DOWN: PANDEMONIUM on the baseball field.


The Umpire has cut Henry's bat - it is CORKED (and soillegal). Claude gloats. The Umpire walks over to Henry.Henry protests his innocence. The Umpire sends Henry from

the field, as the Rebels fling oaths at the Redcoats.

The umpires start to clear the field. The fireworks andcelebrations stop.


Resuming, Oliver nervously walks to the plate.

Nick pitches - Oliver gives a simple pop-up and is CAUGHT.The Redcoats win 13-10 - to BOOS. The Redcoats celebrate.

CLOSE ON: NICK, who smiles ironically.


Claude jumps up and down in ecstasy. Amanda kisses eachand every Redcoats player.

260 260EXT. ADJACENT FIELD, JEFFERSON GROUNDS

The three helicopters land.

261 261INT. PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE, 10 DOWNING STREET -- EVENING

The Prime Minister gives his guitar a celebratory strumming.

PRIME MINISTERGreat stuff! That was almost asexciting as cricket.

262 262INT. FENWAY ROOM, WHITE HOUSE

The President is throttling Boggs.

PRESIDENTI will of course have to resign.



102.


Paige comforts Henry. Peggy comforts Wendell. Henry breaksoff, and makes his way over to Nick, who is deluged by histeam-mates. Henry approaches threateningly. Henry putsout his hand to Nick.

HENRYYou beat us fair and square.

Nick reciprocates - they SHAKE HANDS.

NICKYou played fair and square.

Nick looks over and sees 4 menacing CIA AGENTS approachingfrom their helicopter.

NICK (CONT'D)

(to Kowalski)I need your map. Quick!

Kowalski runs to the dugout.


Wendell and Henry pull up a makeshift table. Kowalskilays the map across the table.

NICKWhat's mine under the Fenway Fund?

CLOSE ON: THE MAP, and Kowalski's finger POINTING ATSUCCESSIVE PATCHES OF...BOSTON, NEW YORK AND WASHINGTON DC -to SUCCESSIVE CHEERS from the Redcoats contingent.

Kowalski's finger finally lands on the WHITE HOUSE, whichelicits the LOUDEST CHEER from the Brits.

NICK (CONT'D)I see.

PAIGENick, you're the richest man in

America.

Claude licks his lips. Amanda purrs. Nick looks at Paige.Nick shakes his head and looks at the map.

NICKAll my father ever wanted was...theBoston Diamond.

CAMERA TRACKS NICK'S FINGER INTO THE MAP towards that VERYSMALL FIELD...and THROUGH THE MAP. FADE IN:



104.

270 270INT. OWNER'S BOX, FENWAY STADIUM

NICKYes, that's me.

DE GOUGLIE (V.O.)Zis is Jacques, Comte de Gouglie,

and eet ese about ze cricket gameyour ancestor has wiz my ancestorwheech was cancelled because of zetres terrible Revolution francais.

The guests look intrigued.

DE GOUGLIE (CONT'D)And, zere was un petit wager.

Nick's eyes light up. All the guests look at him.

DE GOUGLIE (CONT'D)What do you say, monsieur?

CLOSE ON: NICK, whose mind is working overtime...

THE END

POST-FINAL CREDITS:

271 271INT. CLOISTERS, MONASTERY -- EVENING

The SOUND of 4 pairs of sandals on cobbled stones; andimmediately 4 monks - of a SILENT ORDER - walk past.

CAMERA TRACKS TO:

272 272INT. HEAVY WOODEN DOOR, CLOISTERS

Another monk, carrying a heavy book - scurries up to all d k k d t

The Boston Diamond

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Transcript of The Boston Diamond