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THE PRISONER OF ZENDA (1937)

SCREENPLAYby

John Balderston

From the NOVELby

Anthony Hope

And the STAGE PLAYby

Edward Rose

ADAPTATIONby

Wells Root

ADDITIONAL DIALOGUEby

Donald Ogden Stewart

Dramatized transcription from DVD by

Peter Morwoodhttp://www.petermorwood.com

usingMovie Magic Screenwriter 2000 v.4.73

http://www.ScreenPlay.com

FADE IN:

INSERT: A MAP OF 19TH CENTURY EUROPE BEHIND A TEXT CRAWL

Towards the close of the last century, when History stillwore a Rose, and Politics had not yet outgrown the waltz,a Great Royal Scandal was whispered in the Anterooms ofEurope. However true it was, any resemblance in "THEPRISONER OF ZENDA" to Heroes, Villains or Heroines, livingor dead, is a coincidence not intended...

The camera TRACKS a route from Calais across central Europe,until at Hungary...

DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. FAST-MOVING STEAM TRAIN (STOCK?) -- DAY

INSERT -- TRAIN DESTINATION BOARD

Orient Express -- Calais / Vienna / Strelsau / Bucharest /Constantinople.

EXT. RAILWAY STATION PLATFORM -- DAY

STATIONMASTER (O.S.)Passengers will please to descend!Passengers will please to descend!

Various ND TRAVELERS climb from the train onto the crowdedplatform; the station bustles with activity, PORTERS movingbaggage and VENDORS shouting their wares.

ND VENDORSPapers! Flowers! Wine and beer!

BORDER GUARDInside for passport examination,please.

FEMALE TRAVELER 1What's all this nonsense aboutpassports? Passports at thefrontier, indeed!

MALE TRAVELER 1There's some political unrest here,my dear.

MALE TRAVELER 2(reading)

"Special rates for the coronation."

FEMALE TRAVELER 2Special high rates!

ZENDA (1937) transcript 2.

BORDER GUARD (O.S.)All passports examined inside,please.

INT. RAILWAY STATION BUILDING -- CONTINUOUS

It's as crowded as the platform outside, and there's aqueue at the passport desk. Various travelers have theirdocuments at the ready.

CLOSE UP on one PASSPORT in particular, with the Britishcoat of arms at the top. It belongs to our hero, RudolfRASSENDYLL.

A PASSPORT OFFICER reads it without looking up.

PASSPORT OFFICER(reading)

"Rudolf Rassendyll; British subject;object of visit, pleasure."

(beat)What hotel in Strelsau, MrRassendyll?

RASSENDYLL (O.S.)Oh, I hadn't thought of that.

PASSPORT OFFICERWell, you'd better begin thinking,if you don't want to sleep in thepark. Report your address to thepolice within 24 hours of yourarrival in the capital. That'sregulations.

RASSENDYLL (O.S.)On second thought, I don't think Ishall go to Strelsau until afterthe coronation.

The passport officer looks up for the first time, stares,and slowly gets to his feet.

REVERSE ANGLE on Rassendyll, now revealed as a dignifiedman in his 40s, bearded, wearing travelers' tweeds.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)I hope that doesn't offend you,but you see, I was born with anatural distaste for crowds. Ireally only came to your countryto...

(MORE)

He registers the passport officer's stare.


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)I beg your pardon. Is somethingthe matter?

Without answering, the passport officer nudges the BAGGAGEOFFICER, who also stares and then starts to rise. Confused,Rassendyll looks from side to side and sees various NDLOCALS with the same fixed stare. He glances down at hisloudly-checked tweed coat. Ah, that's it.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Oh... Of course I know you don'tdress this way in your country,but you see, we don't dress yourway in England.

The passport officer isn't reassured.

PASSPORT OFFICERBaggage examination... That way.

RASSENDYLLThank you. Thank you for making mefeel so much at home so quickly.

A few seconds later, bag in hand, he makes his way out ofthe crowded station building, occasionally bumping intopeople and trailed by a PORTER who's trying to be helpful.

PORTERYour train, sir! Your train hasgone!

RASSENDYLLI am not going to the coronation.The best fishing is said to behere, and that's -- I beg yourpardon! -- that's what I came for.Fishing, not coronations. I don'tlike coronations and I do likefishing. Now if you'll be goodenough to tell me where I go toget a fishing license...

No reply; instead the porter is giving him that same baffledstare he's seen so often in the past few minutes, andRassendyll is getting tired of it.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Are you dumb?

(MORE)

No answer, just the stare.


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Well, I hope your trout take asmuch interest in me as you seem totake, and I shall get some goodfishing.

Rassendyll walks away, unaware that he's attracting severalmore curious looks. As he goes out of the door, he passes --but doesn't notice -- a large PORTRAIT POSTER on the wall.

CLOSE ON the portrait: it's entitled "King Rudolf V", butthe man it shows, in full uniform, looks like Rassendyllwithout his beard...

EXT. FOREST RIVERBANK -- LATER

A sign proclaims this to be the PROVINCE OF ZENDA ROYALGAME PRESERVE. It's sunny, calm and restful, which is whyRassendyll's asleep under a tree. As two men approach,they pause to look at the trespasser.

SAPT (O.S.)Hah! The devil's in it! Shave himand he'd be the King.

Rassendyll wakes up, looks up, then gets up. The two menstudying him are dressed in hunting costume and carryingguns. One is Colonel SAPT, grizzled, stern and 60s; hiscompanion is Fritz von TARLENHEIM, cheerful and late-20s.

SAPT (CONT'D)May I ask your name, sir?

RASSENDYLLWell, since you have taken thefirst step in the acquaintance,gentlemen, suppose you give me alead in the matter of names?

TARLENHEIMWell, this is Colonel Sapt, and Iam called Fritz von Tarlenheim;both in the service of his Majestythe King.

RASSENDYLLI am Rudolf Rassendyll, travelingfrom England; not so long ago inthe service of her Majesty theQueen.

SAPTRassendyll...?


TARLENHEIMThen we're all brethren of thesword!

SAPTRassendyll! By heaven, your facebetrays you! You know the story,Fritz?

TARLENHEIMOh yes, I had heard something ofit.

RASSENDYLLSo, the skeleton is not confinedexclusively to the Rassendyllcupboard, eh?

KING (O.S.)Fritz! Where are you?

TARLENHEIMHere, your Majesty!

Another man in hunting clothes emerges from the undergrowth.This is KING Rudolf, the man from the portrait, and yesindeed, he looks just like Rassendyll.

KINGConfound it, I thought I'd lostyou!

He eyes Rassendyll dubiously and comes closer for a betterlook, then stares just as everyone else has done. Thistime Rassendyll returns the stare, and with good reason.

KING (CONT'D)Who is this...gentleman?

SAPTHe's by way of being a relative ofyours, sire.

KINGRelative? What do you mean,relative?

RASSENDYLLIt is something for which you cannotentirely blame me, your Majesty.

KINGOh? Who is to blame?


RASSENDYLLIf I may hazard a guess, yourMajesty, I would say that the blamemight lie equally between yourgreat-great-great grandfather Rudolfand my great-great-great grandmotherAmelia.

KINGWhat?

SAPTRight, by Heaven! The man's aRassendyll, from England.

KINGEngland...? Rassendyll...?

RASSENDYLLAnd since Amelia's time, sire, theElphberg face crops out on one ofus every now and then.

The King finally gets the joke and roars with laughter.

KINGWell met, cousin! You must forgiveme being unduly surprised. Onedoesn't expect to see double soearly in the day -- eh, Fritz? Butwhat are you doing here, cousin?

RASSENDYLLI must admit, sire, that I mayhave been guilty of some of thesame offence as our mutual ancestor.

KINGSuch as what?

RASSENDYLLFishing in forbidden waters.

KINGOh-ho, that's good; very good! Theman has wit! You must come to mycoronation tomorrow. I'd give athousand crowns for a sight ofMichael's face when he sees thepair of us. But of course, youdon't know my brother Michael, doyou?


RASSENDYLLI'm afraid, sire, I haven't thathonor.

KINGWe must arrange that he enjoythat...honor, eh Fritz? You shallstay at my hunting lodge, andtonight we shall dine you rightroyally. Our ancestors laid downsome good wine here at the lodge,cousin; they little thought a bottleor two of it was laid down foryou! All in the family, all in thefamily...

INT. HUNTING LODGE -- LATER

The remains of dinner fight for space among far too manyBOTTLES. Old JOSEF, 60s, with medals on his jacket, is theonly servant. Tarlenheim's already half-asleep, Sapt,frowning disapproval, is stalking about in the background,so only Rassendyll and the King are still drinking.

KINGI propose a toast, cousin Rudolf.

RASSENDYLLHear hear!

TARLENHEIM(drunk)

Toasht...

KINGA toast to our ancestor, thatscandalous rogue Rudolf the Second,God bless him!


The King FLINGS HIS GLASS into the fireplace.

TARLENHEIMToasht...

RASSENDYLLWith your permission, sire, Ipropose that we also pay honor tomy great-great-great-grandmotherAmelia.

KINGSplendid!


TARLENHEIMToasht...

RASSENDYLL/KINGTo great-great-great grandmotherAmelia!

TARLENHEIM...toasht...

RASSENDYLLWith your permission, sire...?

He indicates the fireplace.

KINGPermission granted.

Rassendyll's GLASS goes into the fireplace too.

KING (CONT'D)Another toast, by Heaven!

TARLENHEIM...toasht...

KINGNow, let's see: who shall it be?

RASSENDYLLYour brother Michael, perhaps?

KINGMichael? Why waste good wine? No.I'll tell you a secret about mybrother Michael. He doesn't loveme.

RASSENDYLLNo?

KINGNo. Michael thinks the world's allwrong. He thinks he ought to beme, and I ought to be he. But let'snot waste time about Michael! Let'sdrink a toast to... To cousinFlavia, soon to be my bride andqueen!



KINGOh, it's a shame you can't meetthe princess. At least, they tellme it's a shame: I haven't seenher for years. She and I didn'tget on very well then. Perhaps weshall now.

RASSENDYLLI certainly hope so, sire, if you'regoing to marry her!

KINGThey say she's much too good forme. She probably is. You know whatthey say about me, don't you? Idrink too much.

RASSENDYLLOh, I imagine you're well able totake care of yourself on that score,your Majesty.

KINGOh, I've done a lot of drinking inmy time, I won't say I haven't.But tomorrow, in the cathedral,when they put the crown on my headand proclaim me their King, I shallbe their King -- for the rest ofmy life.

(beat)Tonight; tonight I drink with myfriends...

Except that Tarlenheim is fast asleep, and Sapt looksanything but friendly. Only Rassendyll remains both awakeand amiable, and he's fading fast.

KING (CONT'D)My friend. You know, I like you,Rassendyll. You're a good fellow.Oh, you're English, but you're agood fellow. I want to drink atoast to you!

Too late: Rassendyll's asleep, and the last bottle's empty.

KING (CONT'D)Devil take it! Why is there nomore wine? Josef? Josef!

Colonel Sapt steps in; he's seen and heard enough.


SAPTIt's my duty to remind you oncemore of tomorrow.

KINGWhat, again?

SAPTAgain.

KINGWell, so be it. You've remindedme. Now sit down and have a drink!

SAPTYou have a duty, sire.

KINGDuty? Duty, on my last night offreedom?

SAPTI question your freedom, sire, todrink yourself into a condition inwhich you will not be fit to becrowned tomorrow.

KINGI question your right to say thatto me!

SAPTI served your father during hislife, sire--

KINGI question your right to bring myfather into this!

SAPTYour father knew his obligationsto the crown!

KINGAnd I don't? Is that what you mean?

SAPTHe never thought of himself, or ofhis own pleasure. He never forgotthat he was King.

(MORE)

That's going too far. The King slaps him across the face.There's a moment of shock, neither quite believing what'sjust happened, then Sapt pulls his dignity around him likea cloak.


SAPT (CONT'D)By your leave, your Majesty...

He strides from the room, leaving the King as ashamed ashis drunken state allows.

KINGSapt...?

Sapt is gone; but Josef appears, carrying a BOTTLE of wine.

KING (CONT'D)What do you want?

JOSEFThe 1868, your Majesty. You sentfor it.

KINGDid I?

(beat)Josef...

JOSEFYour Majesty?

KINGI've had too much to drink. Bettertake it away.

JOSEFYes, your Majesty.

KINGNo, wait. Wait! We have a guest.Marvelous fellow. English.

The King glances at the marvelous fellow Rassendyll, fastasleep in his chair.

KING (CONT'D)Marvelous fellow, Josef, but can'tdrink. I can drink. I'm the King.

He fills a glass with the 1868 wine, then drains it.

KING (CONT'D)Better go to bed, Josef.

JOSEFGood night, your Majesty.

KINGGood night. Sleep well, Josef.

(MORE)


The King pours and drains another glassful.

KING (CONT'D)Everybody sleep well. Everybodysleeps but the King.

He sways a little. Then he sways a lot. He lookssuspiciously at the wine-glass, but it drops from hisfingers. The King staggers, collapses to the floor androlls over, not just asleep but unconscious.

INT. HUNTING LODGE -- MORNING

A JUG is carried in. Sapt takes it, then tosses water allover Rassendyll, still asleep in his chair. He wakessuddenly, angry and wet.

RASSENDYLLI don't care much for your joke,sir!

SAPTYou think it's a joke, eh?

He indicates where the King lies unconscious on a couch.

SAPT (CONT'D)This is no joke, Englishman.

RASSENDYLLThat was quite an evening, wasn'tit? But what happened?

TARLENHEIMJosef found him on the floor thismorning.

SAPTYou didn't drink any of this lastbottle, did you?

RASSENDYLLNo, not that I remember.

SAPTI think you'd know if you had.

RASSENDYLLWhy...? What? Was it drugged?

TARLENHEIMIt was.

RASSENDYLLWell, have you had a doctor...?


SAPTThere's none within ten miles, anda thousand doctors wouldn't takehim to Strelsau today. I know thelook of it. He won't move for sevenor eight hours yet.

RASSENDYLLBut how? Why? Who...?

SAPTWho else but Michael?

TARLENHEIMWho else?

RASSENDYLLMichael? His brother?

TARLENHEIMHalf-brother. Michael's mother wasnot exactly acceptable in courtcircles.

RASSENDYLLBut this is fantastic -- impossible!What could be in Michael's mind?

TARLENHEIMHe wants the throne to be offeredto him by the people. He wants topose as their savior from theexcesses of an incompetent King.

SAPTIf he's not crowned today, he'llnever be crowned.

(beat)Englishman, I am much older thanyou. As a man grows old, he beginsto believe in Fate. Fate sent youhere. Fate sends you now toStrelsau.

Rassendyll digests this; the proposal is so crazy that hedoesn't believe his ears.

RASSENDYLLWhat?

SAPTSounds mad, doesn't it? But withoutyour beard I'll wager you coulddeceive your own brother.


RASSENDYLLYou must be out of your mind!

SAPTIt's a risk. Against a certainty.

RASSENDYLLMy dear Colonel, I came here on afishing trip. I like to fish. I'ma simple Englishman. I couldn'tbegin to act like a king even if Itried. I wouldn't deceive anybody.

But he shakes his head and smiles as he considers theconsequences of any attempt.

SAPTWhat are you smiling at?

RASSENDYLLIt would be a scene, wouldn't it?The cathedral crowded to the doors,the organ booming, I kneel to becrowned...

(beat)Then your friend Michael stepsforward and shouts "This isn't theKing, this is an Englishman namedRudolf Rassendyll!" No, I'm afraidnot, gentlemen.

SAPTThen Michael sits on the thronetonight, and the King lies in prison --or his grave.

That's a consequence Rassendyll hasn't considered, and itmakes him thoughtful. He stares at the unconscious Kingand starts to reconsider.

RASSENDYLLAfter all, it would only be for aday, wouldn't it?

SAPTBy tonight you'd be safely acrossthe border.

RASSENDYLLKing for a day...

(beat)What would it mean if I fail?


SAPTYour life; and mine, and Fritz'shere.

Rassendyll thinks about that, too, and finally reaches hisdecision.

RASSENDYLLConfound it, I'd grown awfullyfond of this beard!

SAPTHah!

He takes the SIGNET RING from the King's finger and givesit to Rassendyll. The ring is hard to remove, harder stillto put on, and Rassendyll succeeds only after some effort.

RASSENDYLLWell, I hope the crown's a betterfit!

Tarlenheim looks at the King.

TARLENHEIMWhat are we going to do, sir?

SAPTHide him. We can't chance Michael'smen finding him. The cellar willbe best. Pick him up.

TARLENHEIMBut what if they search?

SAPTOh, Josef will put them off.

TARLENHEIMI know, sir, but if they--

SAPTWe're not playing! Do you think Idon't know the risk? If they dofind him, he's no worse off thanif he's not crowned in Strelsautoday. Pick him up!

Sapt goes to the door and opens it. Right outside is amiddle-aged woman in a servant's dress, FRAU HOLF the caretaker. She's just straightening up as if she's beenwatching or listening at the keyhole.

FRAU HOLFI, I beg your pardon, sir, I--


SAPTOne moment! How long have you been caretaker here?

FRAU HOLFTen years.

SAPTHave you the keys of the wine-cellar?

FRAU HOLFYes, sir.

SAPTOpen it.

She goes off to open the cellar. As Tarlenheim goes outwith the King in a fireman's carry, Sapt goes back to thetable and collects the bottle of drugged wine.

INT. CELLAR STAIRS -- CONTINUOUS

The cellar is open and Tarlenheim takes the King inside.Sapt comes downstairs after him. As Frau Holf tries toleave, he blocks her exit, then picks up a convenient CUP,pours wine into it and holds it out. She shrinks away.

FRAU HOLFNo, no! No!

SAPTDrink it!

FRAU HOLFNo!

SAPTDrink!

Reluctantly Frau Holf does as she's told, then drops thecup and sits down nervously. Tarlenheim comes out of thecellar and looks at her.

SAPT (CONT'D)Tie her up. Better gag her, too.

INT. WINE CELLAR -- CONTINUOUS

Sapt comes in and examines the King, now stretched out ona table. He removes his tunic, folds it as a makeshiftpillow and puts it under the King's head.


SAPTThe night before your coronation,you must have wine, and wine, andmore wine.

(beat)But you're my King, the son ofyour father, and may I rot in mygrave before Black Michael sits inyour place.


Sapt goes back outside, where Frau Holf is alreadyunconscious. He lifts her head and lets it drop back.

SAPTRemarkable vintage, that '68. Lockthe door.

Tarlenheim locks it, then gives an ironic SALUTE.

TARLENHEIMSleep well, sire. We go to see youcrowned.

INT. HUNTING LODGE -- MOMENTS LATER

Rassendyll, now beardless, is in full uniform. He has aPORTRAIT of the King in one hand, a MIRROR in the other,and looks pleased with the comparison.

RASSENDYLLIt's not bad, you know. Not bad atall.

INSERT -- A PROCLAMATION

Proclamation: In response to public demand, and takingcognizance of the lamentable public disorders occasionedby the unexplained non-appearance of His Majesty, KingRudolf the Fifth, at the solemnities of his coronation.Now therefore I, Michael, Duke of Strelsau, do hereby assumethe Regency of this kingdom and ordain and proclaim a stateof martial law.

INT. MICHAEL'S OFFICE -- LATER

Duke MICHAEL, 40s, lean, dark and intense, signs thedocument, then seals it with ribbon and wax and hands itto his henchman DETCHARD. Two other henchmen, DE GAUTETand LAUENGRAM are also present. The trio are tough-lookingmilitary men of Michael's own age. All wear hussar uniformof the same regiment, with Michael the most senior officer.


MICHAELThere. The last detail. Nowremember, that is to be releasedtwenty minutes after Hentzau bringsyou word that the coronationceremonies have been canceled.Twenty minutes; not before.

DETCHARDYes, your Highness. And now may Ioffer congratulations?

He holds out his hand. Michael rises and shakes it.

MICHAELA shade premature, but thank you,Detchard.

ANTOINETTE De Mauban, Michael's mistress, comes into theroom. She's a darkly beautiful woman in her mid-30s, butshe watches uneasily as he accepts what looks like Royalhomage from his supporters. They notice her, and bow.

MICHAEL (CONT'D)Gentlemen, you will now go to yourrespective posts. The time growsnear.

DETCHARDWe go to serve our country -- andour future sovereign.

Antoinette doesn't like the sound of that, and Michaelregisters her concern with a sidelong glance. The henchmenbow again and leave.

ANTOINETTEMichael, you said I would be yourwife. I want to be your wife. Iwant to serve you and make youhappy. But I know that dream isended if your plan succeeds. Takethe happiness I can give you. Letyour brother have the power--

MICHAELNo! All my life I've played secondfiddle to that weakling and why?Because his mother was a princessand mine was not. I'm the eldestson, but he was the Crown Prince.He lived in the Royal Palace. Hedined with Kings. Well, today thetable is set for Rudolf, but it'sMichael who's going to the feast!

(MORE)


Antoinette goes to embrace him, but is interrupted by aKNOCK at the door.

MICHAEL (CONT'D)Come in!

Rupert of HENTZAU enters; in his early 20s, handsome anddashing, he looks like a hero -- but he's even more avillain than Michael.

HENTZAUOh! I'm sorry to interrupt you...your Majesty.

MICHAELHentzau!

HENTZAUYour Highness!

MICHAELWhy aren't you at the cathedral?

HENTZAUIs there such a hurry to go to thecoronation of a King who's noteven going to be there to becrowned?

MICHAELDo we want to make it obvious weknew he wouldn't be coming? Wemust be there.

Hentzau gives Antoinette a thoughtful look, wondering whatshe knows, then dismisses concern in favor of impudence.

HENTZAUBy the way, the Burgomaster ofZenda is outside to pay hisrespects. And a deputation of loyalpeasants. I told them you were toobusy. They didn't seem to likethat very much.

MICHAELThere may come a time, Hentzau,when your services no longer excuseyour impertinence.

Michael stalks irritably from the room. Hentzau gives theclosed door a cheeky BOW, then turns his attention toAntoinette.


HENTZAUI called at your hotel this morningand they told me you were out.

(beat)Curiously enough, you were out,too. I'm glad you didn't lie tome. I don't like women who lie tome. They don't usually do it, as amatter of fact. I usually lie tothem.

Antoinette puts some distance between them.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Somebody once called fidelity afading woman's greatest weapon,and a charming woman's greatesthypocrisy. And you're very charming.Michael's very busy, and likely tobe more so--

ANTOINETTEI thought I heard his Highnessorder you to your place in thecathedral!

HENTZAUSo now you're trying to put me inmy place! You know, I like arrogancein a woman -- at first. It's alwaysamusing to find that the arroganceis only a defense. But you don'tneed a defense against me: I'm onyour side. I think Michael'streating you wretchedly.

Once again Antoinette moves away from him.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)What's he getting out of thismarriage of state?

That makes Antoinette look sharply at him. Is he just beingprovocative -- or does he know something?

HENTZAU (CONT'D)An insipid flaxen-haired doll.Poor Michael!

ANTOINETTEThe idea that his Highness isconsidering marrying Princess Flaviais not up to your standard, CountRupert. I'd heard you were moreamusing.


HENTZAUHow else can he get the crown?

ANTOINETTEHe doesn't want the crown, as thosein his confidence know. He wantsonly to be Regent.

HENTZAUOf course. But when Rudolf abdicatesand Flavia becomes Queen... Youcan't put that off forever, youknow.

ANTOINETTEA young, inexperienced queen wouldnaturally lean on her cousin theDuke for guidance.

It sounds like a familiar party line, but Antoinette looksas if she's starting to wonder if that line is true.

HENTZAUSo he's made you believe he wantsto be the man behind the throne!Oh no. No, he wants to sit on it,and sit on it he can not until hemarries the rightful queen.

That's the last straw. Antoinette makes for the door, butHentzau overtakes her.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)You know, I think it's shameful ofhim to keep you in the dark likethis. But what's a marriage ofconvenience to a woman of the worldlike you? You want to hold him? Make him jealous. But you'll haveto fall back on me for that. I'mthe only man in the kingdom who'snot afraid of Michael...

Antoinette glares at him, even when he opens the door forher with mocking courtesy. Once she's gone, he smuglyadmires himself in a MIRROR, jauntily adjusting his helmetand WHISTLING a waltz. Rupert of Hentzau thinks a greatdeal of himself...

EXT. THE ROYAL TRAIN (STOCK?) -- LATER

Drawn by a steam locomotive, the train speeds through thecountryside.

CLOSE UP of the Royal Crest on a carriage door.


INT. THE ROYAL CARRIAGE -- CONTINUOUS

Rassendyll is practicing his coronation oath, watched bySapt and Tarlenheim.

RASSENDYLL"I, Rudolf, with justice and mercyto deal sovereignty, to guard withvigilance and honor the welfare ofmy peoples, from all enemies..."Er...

He fumbles for the next words, floundering until at lastTarlenheim leans forward, ready to prompt.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)No, no. No, don't tell me! Er..."From all enemies to...to defendthem, and from the throne of myancestors to bear faithful rule,all this do I swear."

He finishes in a rush, but it's good enough for Sapt, whogives Tarlenheim a disapproving look.

SAPTStop shaking, boy! You'd thinkyou'd got the ague!

He stands up and grabs Rassendyll's wrist, checking hispulse.

SAPT (CONT'D)A little too quick, but you'll do.We're all right till we get to thecathedral. The princess hasn'tseen him for several years, butMichael...

(beat)Well, I've told you all I can.I'll be at your ear every minute.

He POINTS out of the window.

SAPT (CONT'D)Your capital, your Majesty!

The view through the window shows a station platformdecorated with bunting and lined with soldiers on parade,people CHEERING and waving flags, and BRASS BAND MUSICplaying. Sapt, Tarlenheim and Rassendyll put on theirhelmets and prepare to disembark.

ND VOICE (O.S.)God save the King!


SAPTGod save 'em both! Steady, lad!

They leave the train, and the pretense begins in earnest.

INT. STRELSAU CATHEDRAL -- LATER

The cathedral is packed, but beyond the columns lining theaisle, Michael and Hentzau wait for announcement of theKing's non-arrival.

MICHAELIt's the day, the hour, almost themoment!

HENTZAUHistory is born out of a bottle ofwine.

Their mutual congratulations are cut short by a FANFARE --announcement of the King's arrival. Satisfaction changesto shock in an instant.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)The King?

The cathedral doors swing open and trumpeters march in,followed by Rassendyll, Sapt, Tarlenheim and an escort.Rassendyll pauses to give up HELMET and GAUNTLETS.

The CHAMBERLAIN bows to Michael and confirms his fears.

CHAMBERLAINHis Majesty has arrived, yourHighness.

HENTZAUThe King? How's it possible?

MICHAELSomething went wrong! Go to Zenda--

HENTZAUZenda? Why? He's here!

MICHAELFind out what went wrong!

HENTZAUIf only he'd drunk what I wantedto put in the bottle...

Hentzau leaves and Michael hurries into the main part ofthe cathedral to stare down the aisle as the Royal Partyapproaches.


Rassendyll walks at a dignified pace along the red carpetas the congregation bows or curtsies. He looks every incha King, but how much he feels like one is well hidden,while Michael watches and wonders why there's a King inthe cathedral at all.

Though he subjects Rassendyll to intense scrutiny, hefinally escorts "his brother" to the throne, where they'remet by the ARCHBISHOP.

ARCHBISHOPLook now upon our most puissantliege lord, Rudolf the Fifth,undoubted King of this realm. Ifany man would deny our sovereignlord's title to our lands andfealty, let him speak now, or beattainted traitor.

Michael knows that this is the time to say something,anything, but without proof he has to remain silent.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. STRELSAU CATHEDRAL -- LATER

Rassendyll sits on the throne, now wearing coronation robes,with the ORB and SCEPTER already in his hands. The CROWNis brought on a cushion to the Archbishop, who takes itand formally shows it to "the King".

ARCHBISHOPReceive the crown of the kingdom,and understand what a glory ofsanctity, of honor and bravery itsignifies.

He places the crown on Rassendyll's head.

ARCHBISHOP (CONT'D)God save the King!

ND ALLGod save the King! God save theKing! God save the King!

EXT. STRELSAU PARK -- CONTINUOUS

A line of cannon starts FIRING a salute.

INT. STRELSAU CATHEDRAL -- CONTINUOUS

The SWORD OF STATE is brought forward and like the crownis formally shown to "the King".


ARCHBISHOPGird thy side with thy sword, ohmighty one, and be mindful thatkingdoms are conquered not with asword, but through faith.

He gives the sword to Rassendyll, who stands up, raisesit, and speaks the oath he was practicing on the train.

RASSENDYLLI, Rudolf, with justice and mercyto deal sovereignty, to guard withvigilance and honor the welfare ofmy peoples, from all enemies...Er...

He hesitates at the same place and Sapt looks worried, butthen he remembers the rest and finishes as if he means it.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)...To defend them, and from thethrone of my ancestors to bearfaithful rule, all this do I swear.

With the King's oath complete, his bride-to-be PrincessFLAVIA comes forward to swear allegiance. She's a beautifulyoung woman in her 20s and Rassendyll is immediately takenwith her. Kneeling in front of him, hands together inhomage, she concentrates on what she's saying and doesn'tnotice his interest.

FLAVIAI, Flavia, do become thy vassal,swearing to serve thee in truthwith life and limb until deathfindeth me. So help me God.

There's a pause, then Rassendyll asks Sapt what to do next --and he's already guessed what it is.

RASSENDYLL (WHISPER)Do I kiss her?

SAPT (WHISPER)Yes!

Rassendyll takes Flavia by the hands and raises her up,kisses her formally on both cheeks, then hand in hand theywalk down from the altar and the throne to be seen by thepeople.

EXT. MONTAGE -- CONTINUOUS

Cannon FIRING another salute.


Trumpeters BLOWING another fanfare.

Church bells RINGING.

EXT. STRELSAU STREET -- LATER

The Royal Coach, with "The King" and the Princess inside,makes its way along a street lined with soldiers in full-dress uniforms and packed with CHEERING, flag-waving crowds.

INT. ROYAL COACH -- CONTINUOUS

Rassendyll and Flavia sit side by side, WAVING regally atthe crowds.

RASSENDYLLWell, I think it all went off verywell, don't you? For a coronation.

Flavia gives him a quizzical glance suggesting she wonderswhat he means by that comment. Rassendyll covers hastily.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Oh. Of course I mean, that is, acoronation should go well. If theKing puts in an appearance, properlydressed, and knows his part--

FLAVIAAnd sober.

RASSENDYLLThat was a nasty one.

(beat)By the way, among my failings Irather neglected you, didn't I?

FLAVIATwo picture postcards in threeyears, I think.

RASSENDYLLAnd all the time you've beenchanging into the loveliest princessin Europe. No, the loveliest girlin Europe.

FLAVIAYour dynastic obligations to thePrincess Royal don't compel you tomake pretty speeches to her inprivate.

Rassendyll glances out of the coach window at the soldiers,the crowds, the bunting and the bands.


RASSENDYLLYou call this private?

Flavia smiles at the joke. She clearly doesn't want tolike the man who ignored her existence for so long, butthere's something more appealing about him now.

FLAVIAYou really behaved and looked likea King today.

RASSENDYLLThank you.

FLAVIASomething, I must confess, few ofus expected of you.

Rassendyll turns to her, ready with some new protestationof reformed character, but she nods towards the window andthe crowded street beyond.

RASSENDYLLOh...

FLAVIAHaven't you forgotten something?

RASSENDYLLWhat? Oh.

He resumes waving, supporting his aching elbow with theother hand.

FLAVIAThat's better.

RASSENDYLLLook, I have an idea. Supposingyou bow on my side of this goldfishbowl, and I salute on yours? Likethat.

He demonstrates, leaning forward. If it looks for a secondas if he's about to kiss her again, that must be only acoincidence, but at least they can look at each other now.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)There: isn't that more cozy...?

EXT. STRELSAU PALACE -- EVENING

The crowds gathered in front of the palace are CHEERINGand WAVING: hands, flags, even hats. "The King" and thePrincess are out on the balcony.


EXT. STRELSAU PALACE BALCONY -- CONTINUOUS

Rassendyll and Flavia WAVE back at the people. On impulse,he BOWS to her and KISSES her hand. The cheers increase.

RASSENDYLLHmm, they liked that.

After a final bow, they go into the withdrawing-room.

INT. STRELSAU PALACE WITHDRAWING-ROOM -- CONTINUOUS

FLAVIABless them, they're with you heartand soul.

RASSENDYLLOh, it's you they're cheering. Ifelt like doing it myself when Isaw you.

Flavia seems uncomfortable with this new kindly King. Sheglances at the door, with important people beyond it.

FLAVIAI think we'd better go now.They're... they're waiting.

RASSENDYLLOh, don't go yet. It's such a reliefto have you to myself for a moment.All day long I've been on parade:cheered at, waved at, stared at.Not a chance to say--

FLAVIASay what?

RASSENDYLLIt's enough to make any man losehis head a bit. I'm crowned King,I meet the loveliest, most beautifulwoman--

FLAVIAThat isn't what you used to say.You used to call me "tow-headedlittle scarecrow."

RASSENDYLLNo! I hope you slapped me.

FLAVIAI did. And once I kicked you, quitehard.


RASSENDYLLWhere?

FLAVIAIn the garden.

RASSENDYLLI deserved it. But I've reformed.

FLAVIAAlmost beyond recognition. Youseem an entirely different person.I can't understand--

RASSENDYLLDon't try. Just stand there andlet me look at you.

FLAVIAI really think we should go. They'rewaiting.

During their conversation they've strolled to the opendoor of the anteroom, where Sapt, Tarlenheim and variousdignitaries are indeed waiting. One of them is Michael,who strides forward. Rassendyll sees him approach.

RASSENDYLLAre they?

He shuts the door full in Michael's face.

INT. STRELSAU PALACE ANTEROOM -- CONTINUOUS

Michael stops abruptly as the door shuts. There's a MURMUROF CONCERN from the watchers and he swings around, glaring.Sapt and Tarlenheim hastily conceal their SMILES.

SAPTShouldn't have done that. Badmistake.

A court dignitary, MARSHAL STRACKENCZ, thinks otherwise.

MARSHAL STRACKENCZVery encouraging! The royal weddingis not far off.

That might be true -- if Rassendyll was really the King...


INT. STRELSAU PALACE WITHDRAWING-ROOM-- CONTINUOUS

FLAVIATell me, Rudolf -- what's the worldoutside really like? Is it as wickedand exciting as it seems in thenovels? What do you do on thoselong trips? I mean, when you weren'tdrinking.

RASSENDYLLI used to go fishing.

FLAVIAFishing? But you used to tell meyou despised fishing!

RASSENDYLLOh... Ah. Yes, well... I grew outof that. Now I'm very fond offishing.

FLAVIAI never got beyond the hook andworm stage. And talking of worms,do you remember that day when youdropped a caterpillar down my back?

RASSENDYLLI didn't!

FLAVIAYou did. And glue in my riding-boots.

They laugh at this childish behavior, but then Flavia turnsserious.

FLAVIA (CONT'D)But once... Once you really hurtme. You've forgotten, haven't you?

RASSENDYLLWhat did I do?

FLAVIAIt was at my fourteenth birthdayparty, and I thought I was grown-up. Your father told you to dancewith me. You said you wouldn't,that I was a beastly infant, andwhen he insisted, you pinched meall the time we were dancing, andtold me how gawky I was. I hatedyou.


RASSENDYLLI should have been horsewhipped.

There's a KNOCK at the door.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Well?

Fritz von Tarlenheim comes in and bows.

TARLENHEIMYour Majesty, his Highness DukeMichael is waiting to pay hisrespects.

RASSENDYLLLet him wait.

(beat)And furthermore, Captain vonTarlenheim, your intrusion isdecidedly uncalled-for.

Rassendyll gives Tarlenheim a swift WINK to take the stingfrom his rebuke, but Flavia doesn't see it.

FLAVIARudolf, is it wise to make Michaelangry?

RASSENDYLLI'm the one that was interrupted;why should he be angry? Besides,I'm the King.

FLAVIAHe's probably furious.

RASSENDYLLBad-tempered fellow. Why worryabout him?

FLAVIAIt's you I'm worrying about.

RASSENDYLLIn that case, I can afford to begenerous.

He opens the door to reveal Michael standing irritablyjust outside it.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Ah, my dear Michael! I had no ideayou were kept waiting.

(MORE)


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)(beat)

Why was I not informed? I am mostscandalously served!

Sapt and Tarlenheim gape in astonishment. Rassendyll ushersMichael inside, where he promptly kisses Flavia's hand.

MICHAELThis is indeed worth being keptwaiting for, cousin.

FLAVIAYou're more than kind to say so.

RASSENDYLLYou know, brother, this was a dayI've always dreaded. Had a queerfeeling that something might gowrong. But with you in charge, itwas foolish to worry, wasn't it?Can't thank you enough for the wayeverything went.

MICHAELIt's gratifying to find your Majestyin such excellent spirits afterthe strain of the day.

RASSENDYLLThank you, Michael. Never felt sofit! Must be the excitement. Firsttime I've ever been crowned, youknow. That's rather good, isn'tit?

MICHAELVery good indeed.

RASSENDYLLThank you. You know, there's anotherreason why I feel so well. Had aremarkable wine for dinner lastnight. Soothed my nerves. Wentright off to sleep, slept like atop.

(beat)Came from right near your castle,by the way. You must try itsometime, in case you're evertroubled about sleeping.

MICHAELI sleep very well.


RASSENDYLLIs that so? You must have a veryclear conscience.

MICHAELI have. And I've never yet had adream that didn't come true, if Iwaited long enough.

Flavia watches the exchange uneasily, aware that it's notas friendly as it sounds.

RASSENDYLLReally? How romantic. Still, somethings come true that you've neverdreamed of.

He pretends to yawn, full in Michael's face, then gazes athim, daring him to take exception to the insult.

MICHAELI see that I bore your Majesty.With your Majesty's permission, Ibid you good night.

Michael bows abruptly and leaves the room. Flavia is nextto Rassendyll at once.

FLAVIARudolf, be careful! He hates you!

RASSENDYLLBelieve me, I return the compliment.

FLAVIABut you don't understand! He wantsthe throne! He'll stop at nothing--

RASSENDYLLFlavia, aren't you taking him tooseriously?

FLAVIARudolf, if you won't think ofyourself, think of me. All my lifeI've known what my future had tobe, and I was resigned to it. Butnow... I don't have to tell youhow different it is.

RASSENDYLLFlavia, I've been unfair.


FLAVIAI only want you to realize howmuch your life means to... To yourcountry.

RASSENDYLLTo my country?

FLAVIAAnd to your friends...

RASSENDYLLFriends?

FLAVIAAnd to your cousin and most lovingservant.

She offers "the King" a deep CURTSEY. Rassendyll is hopingfor some declaration of love rather than all this honorand respect, but doesn't get it. Flavia goes to the door.

FLAVIA (CONT'D)Good night, Rudolf.

RASSENDYLLDon't go!

FLAVIABut I'll see you tomorrow...

And she's gone, leaving Rassendyll all too aware that bytomorrow, he'll be gone too.

RASSENDYLLTomorrow...

INT. KING'S PRIVATE ROOMS -- LATER

Tarlenheim is having a drink when Rassendyll comes in.

TARLENHEIMWhat a day for you to remember! Iwouldn't mind being King for twelvehours myself.

(beat)I'll never forget old Mueller inthe cathedral...

(MORE)

Sapt enters and Tarlenheim starts to get up, but is wavedback into his chair.


TARLENHEIM (CONT'D)You know, he used to be the King'stutor. Fixed his eye on you andnever took it off. I thought thegame was up... Until I rememberedit was his glass eye.

(beat)By the way, Rassendyll, what wereyou doing with the princess inthere all that time, eh?

(beat)I mean, can't you even leave theKing to do his own love-making? Ionly hope that his Majesty willnot be a source of disappointmentto her after you!

SAPTNever mind that! We must get awayat once if I'm to have the Kingback here by daybreak. Ready tostart, Rassendyll?

Rassendyll NODS, too full of emotion for words. Sapt patshim sympathetically on the back then turns to Tarlenheim.

SAPT (CONT'D)Remember, if anyone comes to seethe King, you're to say that he'sasleep.

TARLENHEIMYes, sir.

SAPTAnd if it's Michael, and thatdoesn't stop him...

TARLENHEIMThat would be awkward.

SAPTSo awkward that if that door'sforced, you're not to be alive totell about it.

TARLENHEIMDo you think I would be, sir?

SAPTGood lad!

Tarlenheim goes to bid an awkward farewell to Rassendyll.


TARLENHEIMWell... I'm not very good at makingspeeches...

RASSENDYLLI don't think we need to, do we?

TARLENHEIMYou know what I mean.

They shake hands.

RASSENDYLLI think I do, old man.

SAPTWe have no time for sentiment!Come on.

RASSENDYLLWell, in a few hours I'll be justplain Rudolf Rassendyll again.

SAPTYou'll be lucky if you're not thelate Rudolf Rassendyll.

RASSENDYLLThere's a happy thought.

SAPTBy Heaven, I feel my head wobblingon my shoulders every minute you'rein the city!

He presses a HIDDEN SWITCH, and a SECRET DOOR opens in thepaneling of the wall.

SAPT (CONT'D)In the old King's time, I knewthis way well. Come on!

EXT. FOREST ROAD -- LATER

Sapt and Rassendyll gallop their horses through moonlightand shadows on the way to Zenda. They arrive at last outsidethe hunting lodge.

EXT. HUNTING LODGE -- CONTINUOUS

The lodge is in total darkness. Both men dismount and securetheir horses.

SAPTNo lights, eh? That's odd.



Without light or fire, the room where they had dinner justthe night before is dark and ominously silent. There's nosign of life.

SAPTJosef? Josef!

Rassendyll LIGHTS several candles, but there's still nothingto see. Sapt looks about suspiciously, then grabs theCANDLESTICK and heads for the wine-cellar.

SAPT (CONT'D)Josef!


Her ROPES and GAG lie on the floor, but the drugged, tied-up Frau Holf isn't there any more -- and the cellar dooris locked. Rassendyll rattles the handle and slams hisshoulder against the wood, to no effect.

SAPTHere.

He hands Rassendyll the candlestick, draws his REVOLVERand shoots out the lock.

INT. WINE CELLAR -- CONTINUOUS

The body on the table looks much as Sapt left it thismorning.

SAPTStill drugged, by Heaven.

But when they roll the body over, it's not the King --

SAPT (CONT'D)Josef!

-- And the blood on his shirt proves he's not drugged,either.

SAPT (CONT'D)The King! The King!

RASSENDYLLLook!

(MORE)

Rassendyll finds a NOTE pinned to Josef's body.

INSERT: THE NOTE.


One King is enough for any kingdom.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Kidnapped!

SAPTOr murdered...

INT. HUNTING LODGE -- LATER

Sapt and Rassendyll are sitting at the table, trying towork out the details of what happened and who did it.

RASSENDYLL...And Michael's been in Strelsauall day. Still is.

SAPTBut that young devil Hentzau isn't!I wondered why I hadn't seen himall day.

RASSENDYLLThen that settles it. They knoweverything by now.

SAPTYes, they know everything -- butthey can't speak. They can'tdenounce us without denouncingthemselves. Can they say "thatwasn't the King, because wekidnapped the King and murderedhis servant." Can they say that?

RASSENDYLLIt still won't keep them frommurdering the King.

SAPTWith you in Strelsau, they won'tdare. If they do, they're finished.Can they kill him and leave you onthe throne?

Rassendyll can see where this is leading.

RASSENDYLLNo, no! You're asking too much.Nobody could carry on thismasquerade! I've tried to help youall I can, but...


SAPTYes, I suppose you're right. You'vedone all that could be expected.More than could be expected. It'sjust that... You see, Rudolf is myKing. I have a feeling about myKing. About the crown. I feel aboutit much as any other man wouldfeel about his children... Or thewoman he loved.

That jab is aimed straight at Rassendyll, and it hits home.

SAPT (CONT'D)He'd hate to leave her to her fatewithout putting up a fight.

RASSENDYLLWhat fate?

SAPTMichael's abducted him, who knowsbut...

RASSENDYLLYou know whom I mean.

SAPTOh... Princess Flavia. With theKing dead, Michael as Regent woulddeclare her the queen. After thathe's marry her, of course.

RASSENDYLLShe'd never do that! She couldn't!

SAPTFlavia's a princess of the RoyalHouse. She'd have no choice. She'dexpect none.

RASSENDYLLBut you can't let that happen toher!

SAPTCan you?

INSERT -- AN INVITATION CARD

His Majesty the King commands the attendance of Her RoyalHighness the Princess Flavia at the State Ball in honor ofhis Majesty's Coronation. In the Royal Palace, Strelsau,June the ninth 1897 at nine o'clock. Von Hauptwitz, LordHigh Chamberlain. Orders and Decorations.


Rassendyll's hand, holding a pen, crosses out "His Majestythe King commands" and replaces it with "Rudolf begs andimplores" -- then adds at the bottom, "If you don't giveme the first waltz, I'll cancel the ball. R."

INT. BALLROOM -- EVENING

A MAJOR-DOMO thumps his staff of office on the floor.

MAJOR-DOMOHis Majesty the King!

As the National Anthem plays, Rassendyll and Flavia walkdown the grand staircase into the ballroom. It's filledwith important people in ball-gowns, uniforms and diplomaticfull dress, who bow and curtsey as "The King" goes by. TheCOMMISSAIRE comes forward and bows a greeting.

COMMISSAIREYour Majesty.

RASSENDYLLDelighted to see you, Commissaire.

Flavia whispers behind her fan, telling Rassendyll what todo next.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Oh!

He signals to the MASTER OF CEREMONIES on the stairs.

MASTER OF CEREMONIESAvec la permission de sa Majesté,le bal commence! Valse générale!

And everyone starts dancing. The orchestra conductor, afussy little man, gets into the swing of things. Variousnew arrivals saunter down the stairs, joining the glitteringscene. Rassendyll and Flavia are the center of attention.

FLAVIAYou look troubled.

RASSENDYLLTroubled? After all these gloriousdays with you? No, I was onlythinking there may never be anothernight like this, another waltz...

FLAVIAWe shall always waltz together,Rudolf.

And so they do, as the rest of the court waltzes with them.


RASSENDYLLI dance with no-one but you tonight,Flavia.

FLAVIAAnd I dance only as my Kingcommands.

RASSENDYLLThen your King commands--

He stops dancing to talk to her, and everything else stopstoo: the other dancers, the music, even the conversation.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Why do they stop?

FLAVIAYou know the rule: because we do.

RASSENDYLLAnd if we start, will they go on?

FLAVIAOf course!

They start dancing again, and the ball resumes.

RASSENDYLLIf we walked out onto the terrace,would they all do the same?

FLAVIAOf course not!

RASSENDYLLWell then--

He stops, and of course everything else stops too.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)--In that case, let's go out onthe terrace.

FLAVIANot now.

RASSENDYLLLater?

FLAVIALater.

(MORE)

They start, and everything starts, although the conductoris starting to look flustered.


FLAVIA (CONT'D)That is, if we can slip away.

Rassendyll stops. Everything stops.

RASSENDYLLOh no. No, I want that promise.

Everyone is staring, confused but amused.

FLAVIACome, we must dance!

RASSENDYLLNot a step until I get that promise.

FLAVIAI promise.

And off they waltz again, with the conductor fit to burst.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. BALLROOM, STRELSAU -- LATER

"The King" is meeting-and-greeting when Sapt gives himsome awkward news about who's next.

SAPTThe British Ambassador. Recentlyappointed.

Rassendyll glances at the Ambassador and grows uneasy.

SAPT (CONT'D)Do you know him?

Rassendyll nods.

SAPT (CONT'D)Let's trust in Providence.

RASSENDYLLYou'll never get Providenceinterested in this enterprise!

The AMBASSADOR and his wife LADY TOPHAM arrive, escortedby the Chamberlain.

CHAMBERLAINYour Majesty: His Excellency theBritish Ambassador and Lady Topham.

RASSENDYLLYour Excellencies.


The Ambassador straightens from his bow and gives Rassendylla look that's almost, but not quite, recognition. Rassendyllcovers by putting on his MONOCLE and trying to appear asforeign as possible. It works, because the Ambassador'sdubious expression clears.

AMBASSADORYour Majesty, Her Britannic Majestythe Queen-Empress commands me toconvey her felicitations on yourCoronation.

RASSENDYLLBe pleased to convey our thanks toher Majesty, your Excellency. Andyou may add our felicitations onher Jubilee.

AMBASSADORYour Majesty.

(beat)Would it be premature tocongratulate your Majesty on yourapproaching wedding?

RASSENDYLLEr... Yes, it might be.

He moves away, leaving the Ambassador and his wife gazingafter him with interest.

AMBASSADORAmazing resemblance to the youngerRassendyll.

LADY TOPHAMNot at all.

Flavia joins "the King."

FLAVIARudolf, we must pay our respectsto his Eminence the Cardinal.

They go to meet the CARDINAL, a dignified old gentleman infull ecclesiastical regalia.

RASSENDYLLYour Eminence has greatly honoredus tonight.

CARDINALYour Majesty's subjects alreadylove their king.

(MORE)


CARDINAL (CONT'D)I think they are impatient to lovetheir Queen as well.

FLAVIAI'm grateful for the interest ofthe people, and of your Eminence.

CARDINALGraciously answered. And now: ourpreparations will require muchtime. Will it please your Majestyto name the day?

RASSENDYLLNow? Tonight?

CARDINALIt was understood the ceremonywould shortly follow the coronation.

RASSENDYLLWell... Shall we say in about sixmonths time?

The Cardinal is surprised; Flavia is shocked and insulted.

CARDINALSo long a postponement?

RASSENDYLLThere's an old proverb, yourEminence. Something about crossingyour bridges before you come tothem.

CARDINALIf your Majesty will examine thatproverb, you will find how verydifficult it would be to cross abridge at any other time.

RASSENDYLLWell, I'm sure my cousin willunderstand--

FLAVIAYour cousin begs leave to bid yourMajesty -- and your Eminence --good night.

CARDINALGood night, my child.


RASSENDYLLIf you will excuse us--

He goes after Flavia, aware how offended she is.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)You promised to go out on theterrace with me.

FLAVIAIs that a command, sire?

RASSENDYLLThat's a command. Please.

MASTER OF CEREMONIES (O.S.)La valse dernière!

Rassendyll and Flavia walk out onto the terrace, then downto the garden. Sapt stands in the ballroom doorway andwatches from a distance.

FLAVIANeed you bring me out here, cousin?

RASSENDYLLI couldn't let you go home, notafter that.

FLAVIAI'm sure you have excellent reasonsfor what you said.

RASSENDYLLI have. There are times when a manmight find it impossible to doeven what his heart prompts him todo. But please believe me: I nevercould willingly do anything tohurt you.

FLAVIAI still don't understand.

RASSENDYLLThen... Will you believe thiswithout understanding? I love you.

FLAVIAOh, is it true? Or do you say thatbecause you must?

RASSENDYLLI love you more than truth or lifeor honor.


He KISSES her.

FLAVIATell me, Rudolf -- why is it thatI love you now, when I never evenliked you before?

RASSENDYLLNever before?

FLAVIAIt was at the coronation. I lookedat you and--

RASSENDYLLAnd that was the first time youloved me?

FLAVIAYou ask that as if you'd be pleasedto hear me say "Yes."

RASSENDYLLWould "Yes" be true?

FLAVIAYes.

They kiss again.

FLAVIA (CONT'D)You seem so different.

RASSENDYLLYour hair is so beautiful.

FLAVIAI wanted you to be different fromthe Rudolf I knew, the Rudolf Ididn't love. And you are, and yetyou aren't.

RASSENDYLLFlavia... If I were different, ifI were not the King...

FLAVIAWhy do you say that?

RASSENDYLLCould you still love me if I werenot the King?


FLAVIAIn my heart there is no King, nocrown -- only you. Dearest, does awoman who marries without lovelook on a man as I look on you?

Rassendyll realizes that if there's a time to tell Flaviathe truth about himself and the King, that time is now.

RASSENDYLLFlavia... I am not--

SAPT (O.S.)Your Majesty!

With this interruption the moment for Rassendyll'sconfession is lost, just as Sapt intended. He bows inpretended apology.

SAPT (CONT'D)A thousand pardons, sire. HisEminence the Cardinal is waitingto take his leave.

Rassendyll and Sapt exchange glares, each man well awareof what would have happened without that timelyinterruption, while Flavia watches in confusion.

RASSENDYLLWe must not keep his Eminencewaiting.

FLAVIAIs something wrong, Colonel Sapt?

SAPTNothing, your Royal Highness. It'salways my unpleasant task to bethe reminder of duty.

That remark is aimed straight at Rassendyll, but Flaviadoesn't notice it.

FLAVIAFaithful Colonel Sapt!

SAPTGod bless your Royal Highness. Butabove all -- the King!

He's not referring to "the King" that Flavia thinks hemeans, but she takes off the ROSE she wears as a corsage,kisses it and gives it to Rassendyll as a keepsake.


FLAVIAGod save the King...

INSERT -- THE ROSE

INT. KING'S PRIVATE ROOMS -- LATER

SAPTThe romance progressed very welltonight. You struck a good blowfor the King!

RASSENDYLLWhat's to prevent me striking ablow for myself?

SAPTDon't take it so, lad. You're boundin honor to play the King's partfor him.

RASSENDYLLHave you left me any honor?

SAPTOh come, come--

RASSENDYLLYou forget the human element, don'tyou? I'm a man in love with a womanwho loves me! You saw, tonight?You heard, tonight?

SAPTI did.

RASSENDYLLThen why should I ever leave thethrone? Could you expose me? Icould marry the Princess and sendMichael and the King to--

SAPTIf you did that, you'd have tokill me first.

RASSENDYLLWell, and if I did? I could raiseall Strelsau on you in an hour!

SAPTYou could do that -- but youwouldn't.


RASSENDYLLThen find the King! Find him --before it's too late...!

INSERT -- A LETTER

The question which has troubled you is this -- "how can aKing be in two places at the same time?" I know you willbe delighted to pay me well for the answer -- and forgivemy failure to report to you since the coronation. Everyour humble and faithful servant -- Hentzau.

INT. MICHAEL'S OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS

Hentzau has just finished telling Michael that the present"King" is a fake, and is laughing at the expression ofdisbelief on his face.

HENTZAUOdd, a man not knowing his ownbrother. But I assure you, they'reenough alike to be twins.

MICHAELYou're trying to tell me that theman I saw crowned is an impostor?

HENTZAUNot your type of fiction I see,your Highness. Too incredible? Butstill, those things do happen. Iknew twin sisters once that, er...That's another story.

(beat)I see your Highness isn'tinterested. Shall I go to marketelsewhere?

Hentzau pulls on his greatcoat and uniform cap, gettingready to leave or at least making a good pretense of it.

MICHAELIf what you say is true, then whyhasn't the King been heard from?Where is he?

HENTZAUHe's in a woodcutter's cabin. Oh,and by the way, royal blood is notblue as most people think. It'sred. I know: I had to spill alittle.

MICHAELYou've abducted him!


HENTZAUIt's an old medieval custom,abducting kings.

Michael slaps Hentzau on the back: he approves.

MICHAELRupert, only you could have carriedout a coup like that! What haveyou done with him?

HENTZAUWell, there's something we haven'tdiscussed. In fact it's the sameold topic--

MICHAELIn a cabin, you say? Where, man?Where?

HENTZAUNow why do people abduct kings?For fun, your Highness? Surelythere's always the little matterof the King's ransom?

MICHAELYou can be the first man in thekingdom -- after the King.

HENTZAUThanks.

(beat)How about something on account?

MICHAELTen thousand.

HENTZAUThat's a poor price for a King --and a crown.

MICHAELTwenty.

HENTZAUWell, it's too cheap, but I willadmit that he's a bit of a nuisance,always whining about being chainedup...

MICHAELYou say you wounded him?


HENTZAUOnly slightly. But the cabin isvery damp, your Highness, and hemight develop pneumonia...

MICHAELAnd let the Englishman reign forthe rest of his life? Could weever expose him?

HENTZAUThat hadn't occurred to me.

MICHAELBut if the Englishman dies first,and is buried in the cathedral asthe King...

HENTZAUThere are moments in your presence,your Highness, when I feel myselfan amateur.

MICHAELThis fraud is an insult to thewhole country.

HENTZAUYour Highness points out the pathof duty. Any patriot ought to killhim on sight.

INSERT -- AN ENVELOPE

Rudolf Rassendyll, c/o Captain Fritz von Tarlenheim. Deliverinstantly.

INT. KING'S BEDROOM -- LATER

Rassendyll is in bed, but sits up to take the ENVELOPEfrom Tarlenheim. He reads the name again; not one he'dbeen expecting to see.

RASSENDYLLRassendyll...? Can't be a billfrom my tailor.

He opens the envelope and READS the LETTER inside.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)(reading)

"If Mr Rassendyll desires to knowthe whereabouts of the King, lethim come tonight at two o'clock to

(MORE)


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)the deserted summerhouse behindthe wall on the Boulevard Elphberg.He must be alone. If he neglectsthis invitation he may harm thePrincess Flavia."

TARLENHEIMOh, it's a trick of Michael's,obviously. They must take you fora fool.

RASSENDYLLWait a minute, here's some more.

(reading)"If you hesitate, consult Captainvon Tarlenheim."

TARLENHEIMThey must take me for a biggerfool!

RASSENDYLL(reading)

"Ask him what woman would do mostto prevent Michael from marryingthe Princess Flavia, and thus mostto prevent his becoming King --and ask if her name begins with'A'?"

TARLENHEIM"A"...?

(beat)Antoinette de Mauban! Frenchwoman:madly in love with Michael. Ofcourse! Definitely, she would loseMichael if--

RASSENDYLLHow far is the Boulevard Elphberg?

TARLENHEIMAre you going?

RASSENDYLLI am.

TARLENHEIMNot without me!

RASSENDYLLGood man! But no Sapt.

(MORE)


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)He'll have fourteen differentreasons why we shouldn't go, andall of them good ones.

(beat)If he can't find any news of theKing, perhaps we can.

EXT. GARDEN WALL -- NIGHT

The wall's about ten feet high, with a heavy wrought-irongate. Rassendyll tries the gate without success.

TARLENHEIMLocked?

RASSENDYLLThe note said "behind the wall."

He starts CLIMBING a tree next to the wall; its branchesextend conveniently into the garden beyond.

TARLENHEIMBut how are you going to get back?

RASSENDYLLYou would think about that!

He reaches the top of the wall and looks over into thegarden. There is indeed a summerhouse, and a shadowy femalefigure is pacing to and fro in front of it.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)She's there. Alone.

He clambers over the wall and scrambles down the far side.

EXT. GARDEN -- CONTINUOUS

Rassendyll prowls cautiously through the overgrown garden,REVOLVER in one hand, BULLS-EYE LANTERN in the other. Itsbeam illuminates Antoinette standing in the doorway of thesummerhouse.

ANTOINETTEHurry, Mr Rassendyll!

He follows her into the summerhouse and she shuts the door.

INT. SUMMERHOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

ANTOINETTEYou've been trapped. Three men arecoming here to kill you.


RASSENDYLLWhere's the King?

ANTOINETTEBefore I tell you, I must haveyour word: no harm must come toMichael.

RASSENDYLLIf you're betraying Michael now,why are you so anxious about him?

ANTOINETTEThink what you like. Think that Idon't like murder -- or think thatI'm just a jealous woman. Have Iyour word?

RASSENDYLLYes, as much as I can give. Ifyou're telling the truth.

ANTOINETTEThey're moving the King from a hutin the forest to Michael's castlenear Zenda.

RASSENDYLLThat's what I wanted to know!

ANTOINETTEIf the castle is attacked, theKing will be killed instantly andno trace of his body will be found--

RASSENDYLLNice chap, Michael.

ANTOINETTEDo you want my help or don't you?

RASSENDYLLI do! How can we rescue the King?

ANTOINETTELeave that to me. You must havehis friends near at hand, at hishunting-lodge, on some pretext orother. Boar-hunting, perhaps. WhenI can arrange an escape, I'll sendyou a message.

RASSENDYLLAll right.

(MORE)


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)(beat)

How will I know it isn't anothertrap of Michael's?

ANTOINETTEOh, yes...

She thinks for a second, then removes one of her EARRINGSand gives it to him.

ANTOINETTE (CONT'D)The man I send you will have themate to this. Now go, quickly.

RASSENDYLLAnd you?

ANTOINETTEIf Michael finds out what I havedone, you and I shall not meetagain.

Rassendyll kisses her hand.

RASSENDYLLGood luck -- in everything.

ANTOINETTEAnd to you... With her.

Then they hear the sound of approaching FOOTSTEPS.

ANTOINETTE (CONT'D)They're coming! They're too soon!

EXT. SUMMERHOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

Hentzau and his henchmen KRAFSTEIN and BERSONIN are outsidethe door, though none of them are ready to open it yet.

HENTZAUPardon this untimely interruption,Mr Rassendyll. I only ask a wordwith you.


ANTOINETTEIt's Rupert of Hentzau! Don't trusthim!

RASSENDYLLWe can talk with the door betweenus, Count Rupert.


HENTZAU (O.S.)Will you give me your honor not tofire while we talk?

RASSENDYLLI give you my honor not to firebefore you do, but I won't let youin. Stand outside and talk.


HENTZAUAs you please. A truce, while weoffer peace terms.

To emphasize how peaceful those terms might be, Hentzauand the other two stealthily DRAW their REVOLVERS.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Fifty thousand pounds in Englishnotes, and safe conduct to thefrontier.

RASSENDYLL (O.S.)Sound like a reasonable offer.

HENTZAUCome out, then. I've a good horsefor you, and the money ready.


Rassendyll doesn't believe any of this blarney for a minute.

RASSENDYLLJust a minute while I think itover.

He looks around the dim interior of the summerhouse, andspies a round cast-iron TEA-TABLE, the sort of thing usedby pavement cafes. It's small enough to be carried, butbig enough to act as a shield.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Stand back out of the line of fire.

ANTOINETTEWhat are you going to do?

RASSENDYLLShow you a new use for a tea-table.

(MORE)

He PICKS UP the table, holding its pedestal under one arm.


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Gentlemen, I accept your offer,relying on your honor. If you willopen the door...?


KRAFSTEINDon't open it! He may fire--

HENTZAUShoot with a lady present? InEngland, old boy, it simply isn'tdone!

RASSENDYLL (O.S.)Come on. My pistol's in my pocket,and all my cards on the table.

HENTZAUGo on!

Krafstein shakes his head; he's not going to be the firstman through that door. Hentzau glares at him, then laughs.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Three men afraid of one?

He pushes Krafstein aside and KICKS the door open. Allthree of them start FIRING at once, but all they hit isthe iron top of the tea-table. Rassendyll CHARGES at them,using the table as a battering-ram. He knocks all threeenemies over, SPRINTS across the garden, LEAPS up to grabthat handy tree-branch he came in on, then SWINGS himselfup over the wall and away. None of the shots sent afterhim come even close.

On the far side of the wall, Tarlenheim returns fire throughthe wrought-iron gate, more for the look and sound of thething, because he can't see anyone to shoot at. RassendyllDROPS down beside him.

RASSENDYLLFritz, that door's locked.

TARLENHEIMThan heaven you're safe!

(beat)What are you laughing at?

RASSENDYLLI've got a grand tea-table storyfor you and Sapt. And here'ssomething else!


He takes Antoinette's earring from his pocket and holds itup.

TARLENHEIMWhat?

RASSENDYLLA pledge from a lovely enemy!

They hurry off into the night.

INSERT -- COURT ANNOUNCEMENT

Court of Strelsau. By order of his Majesty the King, allengagements are canceled. His Majesty is leaving at oncefor the hunting-lodge at Zenda. Von Hauptwitz, office ofthe Lord Chamberlain.

INT. STRELSAU PALACE WITHDRAWING-ROOM -- DAY

Rassendyll is in uniform and greatcoat, ready for thehunting-lodge, but Flavia is in riding-costume, ready fora canter in the park. She's not in a good temper.

FLAVIAI regret that we don't seem ableto amuse your Majesty here inStrelsau. I would have offered youbetter entertainment than justriding with me, but I was foolishenough to think...

RASSENDYLLWhat?

FLAVIAThat just for a day or two, after...After last night, you'd be happywithout much gaiety. I only hopethe boar-hunting will be moreengrossing.

RASSENDYLLAre you offended with me?

FLAVIAWhat right have I to be offended?Last night you made me feel thatevery hour away from me was wasted --but boar-hunting? That's a differentthing!

RASSENDYLLDo you think I want to go?


FLAVIAOf course not! It's the boars:they're simply pining for you tohunt them! Did they send adelegation for you?

RASSENDYLLPerhaps the boars will hunt me.Perhaps, Flavia, they'll catch me.Aren't you touched even by thatdanger?

(beat)Wouldn't you weep for my danger?

Flavia does indeed start to WEEP, but not for any dangerto "the King" either real or imagined. What hurts issomething far more personal.

FLAVIAThis is like you used to be... Notlike the King I've come to love!

RASSENDYLLMy darling, did you dream I wasleaving you to go hunting?

FLAVIAThen you're not going?

RASSENDYLLWell, I'm not going hunting. Thatis, just for boar.

FLAVIAThen what...?

(beat)Rudolf -- it's Michael!

RASSENDYLLOh, it's nothing. It seems he'shatched a little plot at Zenda.

FLAVIAAgainst you? Darling, you mustn'tgo!

RASSENDYLLMy sweet, shall I tell them that Ican't go because you and I have anengagement to go riding?

FLAVIAI won't let you go! Send someoneelse!


RASSENDYLLAnd what sort of a King could dothat?

FLAVIABut I don't understand...

RASSENDYLLAnd I can't explain... Yet. Butbelieve me, there are reasons whyI must go.

FLAVIAI'm sorry... You see, I've neverbeen in love before.

RASSENDYLLThat's better.

He kisses her, then holds her in a last embrace.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)And now... I must go, darling.

When he releases her, Flavia makes a movement as if shemeans to come with him.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)No. Stay here. Let me go alone,very quickly.

He walks towards the door behind her and again she movesas if to follow him to the door at least.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)No... Don't turn. If I see youreyes, I might forget to be a King.

He BACKS AWAY, watching her the whole time and not just tomake sure she doesn't turn, because though she doesn'tknow it, this is goodbye. Whatever happens, this is probablythe last time he'll ever see her.

FLAVIARudolf... Come back to me soon.

RASSENDYLLShan't a man come back to theloveliest lady in all the wideworld?

(MORE)

He quietly eases the door open.


RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)A thousand Michaels couldn't keepme from you.

(beat)But if I shouldn't -- no, don'tturn!

FLAVIARudolf...!

RASSENDYLLIf I shouldn't, you'd never forgetme?

FLAVIANever!

RASSENDYLLYou'd be a brave queen, and doyour part?

FLAVIAThough my life be empty and myheart dead.

RASSENDYLLYou would do your part.

He leaves the room at last, and the door closes behind himwith a CLICK of utter finality. Knowing it's too late tosee him, knowing he's gone, Flavia still turns at last.

FLAVIARudolf...

EXT. HUNTING LODGE -- AFTERNOON

It's a bright, sunny day. Rupert of Hentzau rides his horsetowards the lodge, WHISTLING a tune and twiddling his riding-crop. Guards come to meet him with leveled REVOLVERS. Heeyes them and the guns with equal scorn.

HENTZAUPut those toys away, children, andlead me to the King.

INT. HUNTING LODGE -- CONTINUOUS

Rassendyll, Sapt and Tarlenheim watch as Hentzau dismountsand hands his horse over to a sentry.

RASSENDYLLWell, the man has courage, youmust grant him that.


SAPTI'll grant him six feet of earthwhen the time comes.

TARLENHEIMNo time like the present!

A GUARD comes in and bows.

GUARD 1Your Majesty -- Count Hentzau,with a message from the Duke ofStrelsau.

SAPTTell him his Majesty is indisposed.

RASSENDYLLNo, let's hear what he has to say.Send him in!

When the guard opens the lodge door again, Hentzau islounging in the doorway. He hands over his REVOLVER as ifit was a gift, then SAUNTERS inside as though he owns theplace. When he sees "the King", his salute is no more thana casual WAVE of his riding-crop.

HENTZAUAh, the play-actor!

SAPTHentzau!

HENTZAUYour Majesty... I bring you yourbrother's humble greetings and hissincere wish that you enjoy goodboar-hunting here in Zenda.

(beat)And his respects, of course, toyour two principal bores.

RASSENDYLLWell, what price the crown today?The last offer from my brother wasfifty thousand pounds. Do I hearperhaps fifty-two thousand?

HENTZAUYou'll hear a much better offerthan that, your Majesty.

(beat)In private.


Rassendyll goes across to a seat in one of the lodge's bigbay-windows. The window is OPEN because of the fine day.Hentzau follows.

RASSENDYLLBefore you deliver another ofMichael's handsome offers, I musttell you that I have decided togive you a chance to escape yourthoroughly well-deserved end, oncondition that you yourself returnthe...the Prisoner of Zenda...tome. Alive.

HENTZAUAre you trying to tell me that youactually want the King back? Nowreally, Rassendyll...

RASSENDYLLThen I suppose the next order ofbusiness is Michael's proposal.

HENTZAUWell the Duke offers you more thanI would. I simply said "Hang theplay-actor and save the money."

RASSENDYLLIndeed. And Michael?

HENTZAUDoubles the offer. A hundredthousand pounds.

Rassendyll chuckles at such eager generosity.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)I told him you'd refuse! Now, thefact is -- between ourselves --Michael doesn't understand agentleman.

RASSENDYLLYou and I, we do, don't we?

HENTZAURassendyll, you're a man after myown heart. Now frankly, you and Iare the only two people worthwhilesaving out of this whole affair.Now aren't we?

(beat)This is my plan for us: now listen.

(MORE)


HENTZAU (CONT'D)Attack the castle boldly. Letyour...

He indicates Sapt and Tarlenheim with a dismissive gesture.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Your friends take the lead. Arrangea time with me--

RASSENDYLLI have such confidence in you, ofcourse.

HENTZAUMichael will fall. The King... Youdon't want to find him. You won't.That's been provided for. If yourfriends should fall too, well then,you and I are the only ones whoknow the truth about what happened.Understand? I, Rupert Hentzau, andyou, King of the realm!

Rassendyll pretends to consider the scheme, stringingHentzau along to hear how far he'll take his treachery.

RASSENDYLLAren't you being just a littleunkind to Michael?

HENTZAUPerhaps a little. But I can't standhis jealousy!

RASSENDYLLJealousy?

HENTZAUYes -- you've seen her.

RASSENDYLLOh, the tea-party! Where you andyour friends got on the wrong sideof the table...

There's a chilly instant as Hentzau decides whether totake this as an insult or a joke, but then he starts tolaugh. This time it's Rassendyll who briefly joins in.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Surely she doesn't prefer the Duke?

HENTZAUYes, silly creature!


RASSENDYLLSo you're doing all of this forlove, are you? How romantic.

HENTZAUWell, love -- and your Majesty'sgratitude throughout your long andhappy reign. And then, of course,you might make over to me Michael'scastles and estates.

RASSENDYLLIt's a very clever scheme. It doesyou great credit.

HENTZAULook what I offer you! The throne --and the Princess. You're planningon it anyway, and this way is sure.

(beat)Shall we shake hands on it?

Shaking hands with this murderous traitor is the last thingRassendyll intends to do. He's let the joke go on for longenough, but now he's had enough of Hentzau. Instead oflaughing with the man, he laughs at him.

RASSENDYLLSapt, listen to this! Count Rupertoffers me the throne. That is, ifyou two don't mind being killed--

Hentzau glowers, furious that Rassendyll has been treatinghim like a fool all this time. He slides a hidden DAGGERfrom his tunic sleeve.

HENTZAUTheir turn will come later, play-actor! Yours comes now!

He HURLS the dagger, and Rassendyll dodges just in time.The blade slams into one of the lodge's wooden pillarsright beside his head.

Hentzau leaps through the open bay-window, VAULTS onto hishorse and gallops away, unscathed by the revolver shotssent after him.

Shaken by the sudden attack and his narrow escape,Rassendyll TUGS the deeply embedded dagger from the pillar,looks at its wicked point and shudders.

RASSENDYLLWell, if at first you don'tsucceed...


EXT. NEAR ZENDA CASTLE -- LATER

The castle is on a small island in a lake, connected tothe mainland by a short causeway and a drawbridge. Anyoneintending to attack the place has only that one way in,the very route any defender would want them to take.

Hentzau canters along the road towards this grim spike-turreted fortress, looking none the worse for his escapefrom the hunting-lodge guards.

INT. ZENDA CASTLE GUARDROOM -- LATER

This is deep in the bowels of the castle, with low ceilings,massive pillars and oppressive stonework. It's a placewhere anyone kept as a prisoner will be aware of how closeconfinement can be. Hentzau pays no attention to thebrooding atmosphere. He crunches on an APPLE and amblesover to the table where Krafstein and Bersonin are PLAYINGCARDS, and takes a look over Krafstein's shoulder.

HENTZAUPlay the Queen, you blockhead.

Krafstein does so, but Hentzau has already gone to theheavy door of a dungeon cell and pushed it open. Inside,Antoinette is tending to the injured, feverish King.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Ah! Florence Nightingale!

It's not a compliment, just sarcasm, and Antoinette knowsit. She also knows that she doesn't want to be alone inthe cell with Hentzau when there's only the sick King as apossible protector.

INT. ZENDA CASTLE DUNGEON -- CONTINUOUS

Hentzau stands in the doorway and watches with amusementas Antoinette hurries to leave.

HENTZAU"Oh woman, in our hours of ease,uncertain, coy and hard to please.When pain and anguish wring thebrow, a ministering angel thou!"

He bows mockingly as she passes him on the steps, thenturns his attention to the King. Rudolf is a sick man,unshaven, unwashed and chained to the wall. Antoinette haslaid a cloth on his forehead, but he needs better carethan she can give a prisoner.

KINGWater... More water.


Hentzau goes to a TRAP-DOOR in the floor, OPENS it andsecures the LID to the wall.

HENTZAUYou'll find plenty of water downhere, sire.

The King struggles to sit up far enough that he can seewhat Hentzau is talking about. Once the King can see what'shappening, Hentzau drops his half-eaten apple down thetrap. There's the scary delay of a long drop before itSPLASHES into water far below.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)So even a King can be curious, Isee.

(beat)Now, Jacob's Ladder went up intothe sky, didn't it? Well, thisgoes down into the moat but itserves the same purpose. Becauseif this castle's attacked, thereare always two of us in theguardroom, just up those steps,ready to shove you down Jacob'sLadder. Properly weighted, ofcourse.

Trying to conceal his horror, the King lies back down again.

KINGI'd like... To be left alone, ifyour orders permit.

HENTZAUMy audience is ended, your Majesty?Very well, sire -- try and getsome sleep.

(beat)And may you dream of Jacob's Ladder,with Paradise at the end of it!

INT. ZENDA CASTLE GUARDROOM -- CONTINUOUS

Michael enters the guardroom just as Hentzau leaves thedungeon. As they pass one another, Hentzau pauses, grinning.

HENTZAUI've just done my poor best tomake his Majesty more... Receptive.


MICHAELBrother.


KINGAt last you've the courage topresent yourself.

Michael moves forward and takes a folded PARCHMENT fromthe pocket of his greatcoat.

MICHAELSign this, and a comfortable bedis yours.

(beat)This historic document... Yourabdication.

The King tries without much success to assume a more regalposture than flat on his back, and stares at Michael withall the dignity he can muster.

KINGI haven't lived like a King, butperhaps I can die like one, andnot disgrace the crown I neverwore.

Michael simply tucks the abdication document away again.There'll be another time.

INT. HUNTING LODGE -- EVENING

Rassendyll, Sapt and Tarlenheim sit around the table,waiting to hear from Antoinette. The talk isinconsequential: in Rassendyll's case, about fishing.

RASSENDYLLDid you ever see England in thespring? I know a little streamnear Aylesbury I'd like to showyou two, where the trout are--

He RAISES PARTED HANDS in the traditional fisherman's "thisbig" gesture, but Tarlenheim raises a skeptical eyebrow.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Well...

Rassendyll reduces the extravagant gesture to somethingsmaller and more realistic, and both men smile.

SAPTIt would be a pity if we never getthe chance. God grant you at leastcan see your own home again.


RASSENDYLLI'm not sure it can ever be thesame again.

SAPTI know, lad. I know.

There's a KNOCK at the door.

SAPT (CONT'D)Come in!

Another GUARD enters and salutes.

GUARD 2A man is here who insists he has apersonal message for his Majesty.He says he's one of the Duke'smen, sir.

SAPTHave you searched him? Thoroughly?

GUARD 2Certainly, sir.

SAPTSend him in.

TARLENHEIMOh, if only this is--

SAPTQuiet!

JOHANN, an inoffensive-looking 40-something man in seniorservant's uniform, is escorted in between a pair of guards.Sapt dismisses the guards and summons Johann forward.

SAPT (CONT'D)What is it you want?

JOHANNI have a message for...

He holds up Antoinette's second EARRING, and Rassendylltakes it. The rescue is under way.

INSERT -- PLAN OF ZENDA CASTLE

SAPT (O.S.)Be faithful, and his Majesty willreward you beyond your dreams.


JOHANN (O.S.)You may count on me, sir.


Sapt, Rassendyll and Tarlenheim lean over the plan as Johannpoints out relevant features.

JOHANNI am to lower the drawbridge attwo hours past midnight--

RASSENDYLLBut the noise? You say the Kingwill be killed at the first alarm!

JOHANNThat is correct. She says, beforethe bridge goes down one of yourmen must swim the moat and climbto her room...

RASSENDYLLWell?

JOHANNAlone, one man might reach thedungeon. That man, alone, musthold off the guards from murderuntil the others cross the bridgeand get below.

SAPTAlways two guards on the prisoner,you say?

JOHANNTwo by day and two by night, sir.

RASSENDYLLNo other men who can fight?

JOHANNOnly his Highness and Count Ruperttonight.

RASSENDYLLThat's three against six. TellMadame we will be ready at two,waiting for her signal. Then... I'll swim the moat. The otherswill be waiting for you to lowerthe bridge. Good luck!


Johann leaves, and once the door closes behind him, theobjections begin.

TARLENHEIMBut why three against six? Surelywe're going to take our men?

RASSENDYLLWe don't dare, if the secret's tobe kept.

SAPTNo. The odds are too great. Wemust have help at hand to use ifneeded. Yes, let them come.

TARLENHEIMI think I should be the one to gointo that castle, Rudolf.

SAPTRight, lad. We can't afford tolose both our kings.

RASSENDYLLOne King you'll lose tonight. Ifanything should happen to him andnot to me, your game's up anyway.I've been an impostor for yoursake -- I'll not be one for myown. No, Fritz: I climb into thatwindow.

SAPTBut if we lose you both, what'llbecome of us who are left?

RASSENDYLLYou'll serve Queen Flavia. I wouldto God I could be one of you...

EXT. NEAR ZENDA CASTLE -- NIGHT

Rassendyll, Sapt and Tarlenheim rein in their horses onthe same road that Hentzau traveled earlier. They dismountand proceed cautiously on foot, keeping to the thickundergrowth that lines the lakeshore.

EXT. ZENDA CASTLE -- MOMENTS LATER

They study the castle from cover at the edge of the moat,and Tarlenheim checks his POCKET-WATCH. A few seconds laterthere's a moving light at one of the windows as Antoinettesignals with a CANDLE.


Rassendyll takes off his cap and greatcoat; beneath ithe's wearing dark boots, breeches and shirt, with a DAGGERat his hip. He shakes hands all round, then Sapt andTarlenheim help him SLIDE down the stone-faced banking ofthe moat.

Once in the water he SWIMS quietly across to the castleand climbs the rough masonry of the wall with only a coupleof slips. Soon he's high enough for Antoinette and Johannto reach out and help him the rest of the way.

SAPTAnd now he's alone in that devil'scastle...

EXT. NEAR ZENDA CASTLE -- MOMENTS LATER

Sapt and Tarlenheim have rejoined their guards and all siton horseback, awaiting the next act in the drama.

INT. ANTOINETTE'S ROOM -- CONTINUOUS

Rassendyll accepts a restorative BRANDY from Antoinetteand GULPS it down.

RASSENDYLLThanks! Takes the chill off.

Johann gives him a dry SWEATER to wear over his wet shirt.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Very thoughtful, Johann. Ratherdamp, these old moats!

Johann also hands him a REVOLVER, and Rassendyll, like anysensible man with a strange gun, checks the cylinder tomake sure it's actually loaded. Antoinette watches him.

ANTOINETTEAre your men ready? If a shot isheard before the bridge is down,the King will be killed.

RASSENDYLLI understand.

ANTOINETTE(to Johann)

Go now. Give Mr Rassendyll time tohide in the passage, then open thegreat doors and let down the bridge.

JOHANNI hope I can work the mechanism,Madame.


RASSENDYLLI certainly hope you can!

Josef leaves the room, closing the door behind him.

ANTOINETTEThe Duke has retired for the night.Hentzau is in charge of the guards.

RASSENDYLLI've been rather hoping I'd meetthat young man again.

ANTOINETTEThe crash of the bridge will rousethe castle. The guards will followtheir orders and kill the Kingbefore your men can get to him,unless...

RASSENDYLLUnless I can handle the two ofthem until our men can get down tome. That's it, isn't it?

ANTOINETTEExactly. You see, I've trusted you --your word -- no harm to Michael.

RASSENDYLLWe've all agreed. It means exile,of course, but that's what youwant, isn't it?

She nods silently, then goes to her door and opens it toreveal the Great Hall and the inner passages of the castle.

ANTOINETTEDown the steps is the passage tothe guardroom. Across the guardroomis the door to the dungeon -- andthe King.

INT. GREAT HALL -- CONTINUOUS

Rassendyll SLIPS AWAY across the open expanse of the greathall, watched by Johann, who starts making his own way tothe gates and the drawbridge mechanism. Then they HIDE asKrafstein and Bersonin come downstairs for their duty shift.

As Rassendyll ducks out of sight, his dagger SCRAPES acrossthe wall and the two guards stop.

KRAFSTEINWhat was that?


BERSONINIt's probably the castle cat.

They march on into the guardroom and Rassendyll followsthem, only to hastily hide again at the sound of voices.

HENTZAU (O.S.)Guard relief, ten minutes early?

KRAFSTEIN (O.S.)The Duke's as nervous as a kitten.

HENTZAU (O.S.)He must expect old Sapt to bob upout of Jacob's ladder in a diving-helmet.

Rassendyll is out of sight by the time Hentzau, Lauengramand De Gautet leave the guardroom.

LAUENGRAMIs it true, Hentzau, that he'ssent for more men?

HENTZAUYes, a regular garrison.

LAUENGRAMThen maybe the Duke will give useight-hour shifts after this. Twelvehours is too long on guard.

They pause at the top of the steps, looking across theGreat Hall, and Hentzau notices that Antoinette's doorstands a little open. Lauengram keeps on griping.

LAUENGRAM (CONT'D)You can come and go as you like.We have to stay in that dingy hole!

HENTZAUI'll have a look at the doors andthe bridge before I turn in.

Rassendyll watches him cross the Great Hall. When Hentzaureaches the door, he opens it without a second's hesitation.Antoinette turns, startled.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)It was very careless of you toleave your door ajar. Very careless --and very inviting.

ANTOINETTEOh... Yes...


Leaving the door open may have been an accident, or aplanned distraction, but either way she's having secondthoughts about it.

HENTZAUNow come, admit I've been patient.And patience is a virtue I generallylack.

ANTOINETTEYou never lack audacity, Rupert.Had it occurred to you I might notbe alone?

HENTZAUI always accept the risks -- andam prepared for them.

ANTOINETTEYou... You really shouldn't behere, you know.

It's not a dismissal, but halfway between nervous andseductive. That's all Hentzau needs. He enters the room.

HENTZAU'Course I shouldn't.

And closes the door behind him.

Once he's out of the way, Johann emerges from his own hiding-place and hurries to the castle GATES. He slides back themassive BOLT, then goes to the DRAWBRIDGE WINCH. In hishaste and the darkness, he knocks over an IRON BAR, whichCLANGS noisily on the stone floor.

Johann hides again as the noise brings Michael out of hisroom to see what's happening. There's no other sound fromJohann, but after a few seconds there's a laugh -- Hentzau'slaugh -- from behind the closed door of Antoinette's room.Michael crosses the Great Hall, flings open the door anddiscovers them locked in an embrace. Antoinette looks asif she might be reluctant, Hentzau far from it.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)I was only apologizing for yourabsence, your Highness.

MICHAELThe moat can hold more than theKing, Hentzau!

HENTZAUIs your Highness threatening me...?


Michael lunges for him and seizes him by the throat, butHentzau has a DAGGER sheathed at his belt. He draws it andSTABS Michael in the chest. Antoinette SCREAMS and flingsherself across his body as he collapses to the floor.

ANTOINETTEMichael! Oh, Michael! Why did Ilet them come? Oh, Michael! Oh, Ionly did it to save you, mydarling...!

Antoinette slumps sobbing onto his corpse, but she's alreadysaid enough to send Hentzau hurrying from the room.

The first thing he sees is Johann, still struggling withthe ROPE securing the drawbridge winch. Hentzau creeps upbehind him, lifts the fallen iron bar -- and brings itdown with an ugly THUD on Johann's head.

HENTZAUDe Gautet! Lauengram! Rouse thecastle! De Gautet! Lauengram! Thedrawbridge, quick!

As they come running with REVOLVERS drawn, Hentzau dragsopen the unbarred gate.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)I caught a servant trying to lowerthe bridge! Must have been bribed!Go outside and guard it!


While all this goes on above, downstairs Rassendyll sneaksinto the guardroom. Only one man is in sight. Bersonin isunaware of any intruder until he's staring down the barrelof Rassendyll's revolver. He RAISES HIS HANDS -- but atthe same time Krafstein, down in the King's dungeon, startsWHISTLING a tune. Rassendyll keeps his gun trained onBersonin as he ducks out of sight behind a pillar.

RASSENDYLL (WHISPER)Quiet! Very quiet!

Krafstein appears at the door of the dungeon and realizesat once what Bersonin's hands-up posture must mean. Hekeeps up his innocent whistling as he works round the otherside of the pillar, then jumps on Rassendyll.

KRAFSTEINKill the King!

As Krafstein grapples with Rassendyll, Bersonin grabs hisSABER and makes for the dungeon.


Rassendyll draws the knife at his belt. In a secondKrafstein is dead and Rassendyll has a SABER of his own.


Bersonin opens Jacob's Ladder, then wastes time trying toundo the King's chains, so that by the time he tries akilling blow, Rassendyll is there to parry it. They fightto and fro across the dungeon while the King, sick as heis, tries to lend a hand.

KINGCousin Rudolf! I'll help you! I'llhelp you, cousin...

He finally manages to trip Bersonin with a thrown FOOTSTOOL.Before the villain can recover his balance, RassendyllRUNS HIM THROUGH. Bersonin SCREAMS, reels back and TUMBLESdown the waiting trap of Jacob's Ladder. Hastily droppingthe lid again, Rassendyll goes to reassure the King.

RASSENDYLLIt's all right now, sire! You'resafe.

KINGCousin Rudolf...

Rassendyll leaves him in the relative safety of his dungeonuntil more rescuers arrive. He closes the door, LOCKS it,takes the KEYS and turns round--


--To find Hentzau, armed with a REVOLVER, standing in theguardroom doorway.

HENTZAUWell, if it isn't the play-actor.With his tin sword, too. You'llhave no more use for that.

Rassendyll glances at his saber, but with a revolver alreadypointed at him, it's useless. He DROPS it to the floor.

RASSENDYLLIt's a pity. When did you give upknives for pistols?

HENTZAUI left my knife in Michael. He gotin my way once too often.

(beat)I'll relieve you of those, too.

(MORE)


He means the dungeon keys. Rassendyll THROWS them to him.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)You've settled Krafstein, I see.And Bersonin too, I presume? Mycompliments.

RASSENDYLLThey tell me you rather fancyyourself with a saber. Why notfinish me off in more sportingfashion?

HENTZAUYou may as well face it, Rassendyll --I'm not a gentleman. If I wereonly some King's twin...

(beat)Well, sorry. I really am sorry.

He raises the revolver and deliberately TAKES AIM.

RASSENDYLLEr... How do you know I didn'tkill the King and drop him intothe moat?

HENTZAUNo, oh no. You've worn the Queen'suniform and the old school tie.You wouldn't do that.

RASSENDYLLWhy not take a look?

Hentzau hesitates, because it's just the sort of thinghe'd do himself if the positions were reversed. He alsoknows that where Princess Flavia is concerned, Rassendyllhas good reason to want the King out of the way.

HENTZAUWell, what if the King is dead?What's your offer? Talk fast.

RASSENDYLLCouldn't we have a smoke whilewe're talking?

Hentzau pulls a CIGARETTE-CASE from his shirt pocket andTOSSES it to Rassendyll, who catches it.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)You mentioned something once aboutMichael's castles and estates,remember?


HENTZAUDo you think you can buy your lifefor a few old stones and twoprovinces of mulberry trees?

RASSENDYLLI suppose I'm not in a position tohaggle.

HENTZAUScarcely.

RASSENDYLLHalf my kingdom!

Hentzau is surprised, then dubious, and his gun-barrelwavers.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)...For a match.

Hentzau THROWS his BOX OF MATCHES the same way he threwhis cigarette-case. This time, instead of catching themclean, Rassendyll FUMBLES and they CLATTER to the floor.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Oh, I'm sorry.

He STOOPS to pick up the matches, a move as automatic ashis apology, but he's also reaching for an overturned CHAIR.Hentzau sees it coming--

HENTZAUNever mind that!

--But he's too late. Rassendyll grabs the chair and sweepsit up, KNOCKING the revolver from Hentzau's hand, thenDIVES for his abandoned sword. Hentzau GRABS another fromthe rack of arms on the guardroom wall. The two CIRCLE FORADVANTAGE before crossing swords and Hentzau remains amusedby Rassendyll's trickery.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Touché, Rassendyll. I cannot getused to fighting with furniture!Where'd you learn it?

RASSENDYLLThat all goes with the old schooltie!

HENTZAUWell then... Here's your lastfencing lesson!

(MORE)


They exchange several cuts and thrusts, taking each other'smeasure, then Hentzau LEAPS into a vigorous flailing attack.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Look out for your head!

Rassendyll meets his assault, PARRYING quickly, then beatsHentzau back far enough to let him DART OUT through theguardroom door. If he can keep Hentzau busy, the King stayssafe -- and then there's always the drawbridge to lower.


Hentzau catches up with Rassendyll on the steps and there'sanother flurry of cut and thrust.

HENTZAUWhy don't you stand your groundand fight?

RASSENDYLLHe who fights and runs away,remember?

HENTZAUI see -- you want to let thedrawbridge down. Well, well. Ijust killed one man for tryingthat.

RASSENDYLLAn unarmed man, of course?

HENTZAUOf course!

There's more fighting amongst the massive pillars of thehall, and Hentzau starts to realize that Rassendyll isbetter with a saber than he's been expecting.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)You English are a stubborn lot!

RASSENDYLLWell, England expects that everyman... You know.

HENTZAUYour golden-haired goddess willlook well in black, Rassendyll.I'll console her for you. Kissaway her tears. What, no quotation?


He forces Rassendyll back against the spiral staircase tothe upper level, and LEANS IN close to get more leverageon their crossed blades. Too close.

RASSENDYLLYes -- a barking dog never bites.

Rassendyll KICKS Hentzau in the midriff and pitches him tothe floor, then makes a run for the drawbridge winch. He'snot quite there before Hentzau is after him again.

HENTZAUYou'd be a sensation in a circus!

(beat)I can't understand it! Where didyou learn such roller-skating?

RASSENDYLLThe Coldstream Guards, my boy.Come on, when does the fencinglesson start?

He retreats again, drawing Hentzau on, and parries a coupleof vicious slashing cuts. This isn't the pushover Hentzauwas expecting, and he isn't cheerful any more.

HENTZAUStand still and fight, you coward!

RASSENDYLLBad-tempered fellow, aren't you?Underneath the charm.

There's the traditional sequence where two huge shadowsDUEL with one another across the castle wall.

HENTZAUWhy don't you let me kill you quiet?

RASSENDYLLOh, a little noise adds a touch ofcheer.

There's more fencing, and now some LEAPING OVER TABLES aswell, but with every step Rassendyll is working in thedirection he wants to go.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)You notice I'm getting you closerto the drawbridge rope?


HENTZAUYou're so fond of rope, it's apity to have to finish you offwith steel!

(beat)What did they teach you on theplaying fields of Eton? Puss incorner?

RASSENDYLLOh, chiefly not throwing knives atother people's backs!

Rassendyll GRAPPLES Hentzau and throws him to the flooragain. This time he gains enough space and time to CUT atthe winch-rope. It PARTS -- but not all the way through,and Hentzau is too close to risk a second attempt.Rassendyll is driven away from the winch, and the two fenceback and forth across the expanse of the Great Hall.

When they're close to the winch again, Rassendyll throwshimself at Hentzau and they wrestle for a second on theground until Rassendyll finally gets his chance to HACK atthe rope again. This time he CUTS IT THROUGH and the winchis RELEASED.

EXT. ZENDA CASTLE -- CONTINUOUS

The drawbridge comes THUNDERING down, leaving De Gautetand Lauengram exposed in the castle gateway. Colonel Saptsees his opportunity.

SAPTCome on, men!

With Sapt and Tarlenheim at their head, the column ofmounted guards CHARGE across the causeway. Lauengram andDe Gautet FIRE their revolvers and bring down a couple ofthe horsemen, but it's not enough to stop the charge. Therest RIDE OVER THEM in a tidal wave of horseflesh and steel,and both are CUT DOWN by the sweeping sabers.


Rassendyll and Hentzau are still fighting, and Rassendyllis WOUNDED in the arm -- but already the rising noise ofthe attack tells Hentzau that it's time to leave.

HENTZAUThis is getting too hot for me!

(MORE)

He POISES his saber like a javelin and HURLS it atRassendyll, more a parting gesture than an attack. Despitehis wound, Rassendyll parries easily, but it gives Hentzautime to jump onto a windowsill and FLING THE WINDOW OPEN.


He waves, mockingly cheerful despite his defeat.

HENTZAU (CONT'D)Au revoir, play-actor!

Then he turns, DIVES elegantly down to the moat and SWIMSaway into the night.

The gates BURST OPEN as Sapt, Tarlenheim and their mencome running in. What they see is "the King", wounded, butwith a saber in his hand, apparent hero of the hour.

SAPTThe King!

TARLENHEIMStand by in the courtyard!

He CHIVVIES the guards out and CLOSES THE GATE againstinopportune witnesses. As Rassendyll drops his saber andSLUMPS against the castle wall, Sapt rushes to his side.

SAPTThe King...?

RASSENDYLLThe King...lives.

INT. ZENDA CASTLE BEDROOM -- LATER

The King is in bed. He's been SHAVED and given cleanclothes, but he's still sick and frail, exhausted by hisordeal. Sapt is with him.

KINGYou know, it seems a hundred yearssince I struck you in the face.Please forgive me... And be myguide, as you were my father's.

SAPTThank you, sire.

KINGAnd now... We mustn't keep himwaiting.

Sapt leaves and Rassendyll comes in, his wounded arm in aSLING. He goes straight to the King's bedside, shakes hishand, then removes the signet ring and returns it to theKing's own finger.

RASSENDYLLI've tried not to dishonor it,sire.


Only Flavia, Sapt and Tarlenheim know just how hard he'sbeen tempted, and how well he managed to resist.

KINGI can't talk much. I wanted tokeep you with me, and tell everyonewhat you had done. You would havebeen my best and nearest friend,cousin Rudolf. But Sapt says thesecret must be kept.

RASSENDYLLHe's right. Let me go. My workhere is done.

KINGYes, it's done. As no-one but youcould have done it.

(beat)I don't know when I'll see youagain.

RASSENDYLLIf I can ever serve you, sire...

KINGYou could never serve me better,cousin. You've taught me how to bea King.

INT. GREAT HALL -- MOMENTS LATER

Sapt is waiting for Rassendyll as he comes down the spiralstairs from the King's bedroom.

RASSENDYLLIs she here?

Sapt nods towards a closed door.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)Does she know everything?

SAPTEverything.

RASSENDYLLWhat did she say?

SAPTNothing.

(beat)She wants to see you.


Rassendyll walks towards the door, and he's moving lesslike a man about to see his lover than one going to hisexecution.

INT. ZENDA CASTLE ROOM -- CONTINUOUS

It's a wide, vaulted chamber with heavy old furniture,paintings and tapestries on the walls, and a single hugewindow casting a stark light into the middle of the room.Everywhere else is shadowy, and Flavia is standing in theshadows furthest from the door.

When Rassendyll comes in, he crosses the floor abouthalfway, then stops and BOWS VERY FORMALLY. After all,he's now a commoner in the presence of a Royal Princess.

RASSENDYLLYour Highness?

FLAVIAI sent for you to thank you...forthe service you've done this kingdomand its King.

(beat)No-one could know better than Ihow... How conscientiously you'veplayed your role. You even--

Before she can say "convinced me", she sees the sling andhis injured arm, and all her careful, cold formality fallsapart.

FLAVIA (CONT'D)Oh, you're hurt! They didn't tellme--

RASSENDYLLMy only hurt's the thought of thepain I've caused you.

(beat)I love you. With my whole heartand soul, I love you. In all elseI've been an impostor, but not inthat. From the first moment I sawyou in the cathedral, you've beenthe only woman in the world forme. As I stand here now, I knowthere never can be any other.

FLAVIAIt would have made no differenceif I'd known. It was always youand never "the King."

(MORE)


FLAVIA (CONT'D)(beat)

Is it true that you're going hometo England?

RASSENDYLLTonight.

(beat)Come with me! I won't give you up!I won't let them stand in the wayof our happiness! Come with me!

FLAVIAOh, if I could!

RASSENDYLLThere's a world outside, our world,and a throne for you -- a woman'sthrone, in my heart.

FLAVIAI want that!

They EMBRACE AND KISS, lost in the moment.

FLAVIA (CONT'D)And you'll always love me? Always?Even as now?

RASSENDYLLAlways, always. Oh, my love, think:you'll be free, free of all thesecares and duties, to live your ownlife as freely and joyously as...

Flavia's rapt expression changes and she PULLS BACK out ofRassendyll's arms. He stares at her, not knowing what hesaid, but that something's wrong -- very wrong.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)What is it, Flavia?

FLAVIAI was born to those cares andduties, Rudolf. Help me to do whatI was born to do! Help me to dowhat I must!

RASSENDYLLBut my dear, how can I? I loveyou!

FLAVIABut is love the only thing?

(MORE)


FLAVIA (CONT'D)If love were all, I could followyou in rags to the ends of theworld...

(beat)But if love were all, you wouldhave left the King to die in hiscell.

(beat)Honor binds a woman too, Rudolf.My honor lies in keeping faithwith my country and my House.

(beat)I don't know why God has let melove you, but I know that I muststay.

RASSENDYLLI was mad to ask you.

FLAVIAFor one lovely moment, I too wasmad.

RASSENDYLLNever to see you again? Never tohold you? Never...

He KNEELS on one knee.

RASSENDYLL (CONT'D)My darling.

Flavia LAYS HER HANDS on his head, a gesture like accoladegiven to a knight, or a blessing.

FLAVIAYour heart will always be in myheart, and the touch of your lipson mine...

EXT. FRONTIER ROAD -- LATER

Rassendyll, Sapt and Tarlenheim ride across a field andREIN IN their horses at the road leading to the frontier.Rassendyll SHAKES HANDS one last time with his friends.

RASSENDYLLWe'll meet again, Fritz.

TARLENHEIMFate doesn't always make the rightmen kings.


RASSENDYLLGoodbye, Colonel. We've run a goodcourse together.

SAPTGoodbye, Englishman. You're thefinest Elphberg of them all!

Rassendyll turns his horse. Ruritania and the past liebehind, the rest of the world and his lonely future lieahead.

Sapt and Tarlenheim SNAP TO THE SALUTE, holding it asRassendyll canters up to the crest of the hill. He pauses,silhouetted against the evening sky, and RAISES HIS HAT,an English gentleman to the last.

Then he crosses the horizon, and is gone.

FADE OUT:

THE END

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