(bright instrumental music) (film reel ticking) (dramatic music) (stately drum music) (stately band music) (drill sergeant drowned out by band music) >> Stop!

Ho!

Rear guard, left turn!

Front guard, slow march!

Rear guard, present!

Hut!

Front guard soldiers, halt!

Rear guard soldiers, hut!

(drill sergeants shouting indistinctly) (stately band music) >> Look!

The prince!

>> Fine volley of men, the guards.

There are no soldiers in the world like them.

>> By gad, you're right, sir.

Beer and beef, that's the stuff that makes soldiers.

Besides, it gives a man a figure.

Have you seen today's, "Times," sir?

>> No.

>> The news from Paris, yes.

Over 50 people guillotined in one day.

>> Damnable, useless cruelty.

>> Well, what can you expect from a lot of foreigners with no sport.

Gad, if it wasn't for our fox hunting and our pheasant shooting, I dare say we should be cruel, too.

>> Let's hope the Scarlet Pimpernel will save some of the rest.

>> Do you know who he is, sir?

>> No, but I confess I feel a little prouder when I remember that he is an Englishman.

>> Well, whoever he is, he'll have his work cut out in Paris.

Would you read this, sir?

(drums rolling) (crowd cheering) (crowd booing faintly) (drums rolling) (wood creaking) (crowd cheering) (drums rolling) (wood creaking) (crowd cheering) (drums rolling) >> There they go again.

It's always the same.

The drums roll.

The knife falls.

And another aristocrat parts company with his head.

>> Mm, very monotonous.

>> And so clumsy, that great, ugly machine, when all they need is a sharper razor.

A quick wrist, and flick!

>> Yes, steady.

>> (laughing) Oh, you're all right, father.

I wish they'd give me a few aristocrats to shave, eh, Jacques?

>> Maybe we should see some sport.

>> You would.

You've seen me deal with the Scarlet Pimpernel.

>> The what?

>> The Scarlet Pimpernel.

Haven't you heard?

There is a band of Englishmen helping these cursed aristo's out of the country.

Their chief is the only man who ever cheated madame guillotine.

He's known by the title of The Scarlet Pimpernel.

>> Who is he?

>> Ah, that's the mystery.

(drums rolling) (people laughing) (sheep herder whistling) (sheep bleating) (sheep herder whistling) >> So you're a farmer from Nordisk, are ya?

>> Yes, sir.

>> (laughing) And you thought you could fool me with a disguise like that?

Well, I'll keep this wig of yours, because after tomorrow you won't have a head to put it on.

(all laughing) >> And I shall be delighted to visit madame guillotine and make the acquaintance of the only decent person left in France.

Captain, I say death to the Republic and long live the King!

>> Get him out of here!

Stupid fool.

That makes the third aristocrat I've caught this week.

Heh, I can smell them through any disguise.

(people chattering faintly) (children laughing) >> Thank Heaven for the game of chess.

It enables us to forget the more disagreeable realities of life.

>> I'm not so sure it is a good thing.

We've been too detached from reality all our lives.

That's what caused the revolution.

>> Possibly.

>> Undoubtedly.

If we'd only had eyes to see our own follies, we shouldn't be here now, waiting to be shaved by the national razor.

>> Which is the Count of Tournay?

>> I'm the Count of Tournay's daughter.

My father's over there playing chess.

This is my mother.

>> The Count of Tournay?

(children laughing) If you'll look at the passage I have marked, your spirits will be uplifted.

>> We're not afraid to die, Father.

>> Even so, it is sometimes better to live.

>> How many, Captain?

>> 64.

Robespierre gives madame guillotine extra fodder today.

The former Duke de Tours.

The former Abbaye de Sainte Croix.

The former Count and Countess Delanay.

The former Madame de Nigois.

The former Count de Tournay.

The former (speaks French).

The former (speaks French).

The two Countesses Aria.

The former Mademoiselle de Plume.

The two former Duchesses Passe and Bonovo.

The former (speaks French).

The former Count de Tournay and family.

The former Countess de Cereville.

The former Madame de Pique.

The former Count d'Ables.

(crowd shouting) >> Are you an attorney?

>> I am.

>> You're remanded.

Citizen Robespierre wants to see you.

>> Thank God!

>> Let's you get on.

>> Take him inside.

>> Come on!

Go on.

(people clamoring) >> Get out of the way!

Get out of here!

>> You mustn't cry, Suzanne.

Remember, The Scarlet Pimpernel is waiting to see us.

He's never failed to keep his promise.

>> But he's too late.

>> Long live the King of France!

Long live the King of France!

(crowd shouting) (carriage bustling) >> Look at me whip, me hearties.

Look at it.

Three and 20 locks of hair in it.

There they are.

There's the Duke Teree.

There's his handsome wife, the Duchess.

And here's a hair of her lover, the handsome lock- >> Where's your passport, hag?

>> He takes me for an aristocrat.

(crowd laughing) Well, you're right, Captain.

Can't be too careful, can you?

No, you can't be too...

Here, here's me passport.

>> Eh, this says, "Citizen S. Renaud and grandson."

Where's the grandson?

>> He's in the cart, poor darling.

>> Eh?

What's the matter with him?

>> He's got the plague.

(crowd gasps) The horrible Black Plague.

>> Plague?

>> Yes.

I don't think I should get him alive as far as (speaks French).

Give me a light from your pipe, will you, Captain?

>> Take him away from me with your plague!

Get out of here, quick!

And when you come back to town, try another gate.

For you won't pass through this one again.

>> You're right, Captain.

You're right.

But I'll be back, somehow.

(crowd murmuring) >> Who's in charge here?

>> I am.

>> An old hag of a woman will pass this way in a cart.

You are to stop her and arrest her.

>> Did you say an old hag?

>> You heard me.

>> But she passed through here some time ago.

Her passport was- >> You miserable fool.

You blundering idiot!

Did you search the cart!?

>> No.

No, I...

Her grandson was inside with the plague.

Would you expect me to expose every- >> You were expected to use your brains!

Now I see you haven't any.

That sick grandson was really three aristocrats snatched from the guillotine.

>> 10,000 Hells.

And the old hag, who was she?

>> The old hag, my clever captain, was that cursed Englishman, the Scarlet Pimpernel.

Forward!

We'll catch him this time.

Open the gate!

(carriage rumbling) >> What's that?

>> What?

>> Sounds like a troop of horsemen.

>> Driver: We're being pursued.

>> Don't be frightened, ladies.

You're among friends.

>> But these soldiers- >> My friends, mademoiselle, and yours.

>> Are you the Scarlet Pimpernel?

>> I'm only a humble instrument in the hands of our great leader.

>> How many are you?

>> 20, madame.

One to command, 19 to obey.

>> Shall we see your leader?

>> I'm sorry.

I must ask you to hurry.

But where is the Tournay?

>> Taken back into prison.

>> Why?

>> We don't know.

>> Well, we have to come back and fetch him.

How are things with Kelly?

>> Lawson's there, and Ashurst.

He hadn't arrived when we were there.

>> Oh, hadn't he?

His time sense is defective.

That's twice.

>> They may have arrested him.

They're very careful with channel ports nowadays.

>> My orders to you are that you are not to be arrested.

And I expect my orders to be obeyed.

>> Yes, Percy.

>> You, Gramut and Grant, go back to Paris.

My brother-in-law will follow you there.

I'll see that you get your next inspections with Quintin.

Well, goodbye.

And remember, don't get caught.

>> Right.

>> Right.

>> Good, lads.

Bye.

>> Go!

>> Man: Get on!

>> Well, why did they keep the Tournay back?

>> Because Robespierre wants to see him.

And Robespierre's wants to see him because the ambassador of the Republic has come over from London.

>> Chauvelin?

>> Yes.

>> Why?

>> All in your honor, Percy.

Your work is becoming even more dangerous than it was.

>> Our work, Armand.

You go back to Paris at once.

Find out everything you can about Chauvelin.

He goes to London, you go, too.

Our most dangerous enemy is Citizen Chauvelin.

(bell rings) >> Servant: Citizen Chauvelin.

(indistinct) >> My dear Chauvelin, I'm very sorry that I had to ask you to undertake the journey from London.

But this matter of the Scarlet Pimpernel has become a national menace.

>> How can you expect me to detect him in a country that hates us like the Devil and puts every obstacle in my way?

>> We expect you to overcome obstacles like our generals in field.

They know that to lose the battle means the guillotine.

And when it claddens?

>> Clash wound.

Well, they assume that the Scarlet Pimpernel and this gang peak perfect French.

They belong, therefore, to a class that has been brought up by French nurses and French tutors.

>> So far, nothing.

>> I have a list of all the likely names.

I have them watched day and night.

Sooner or later, I draw the net.

>> Do you think de Tournay might be useful?

>> Possibly.

(bell ringing) >> de Tournay.

>> The former Count de Tournay, former ambassador to the former King of France in London.

>> Citizen Chauvelin, ambassador of the French Republic in London.

de Tournay, I want to make you an offer.

We offer you your life.

All we ask in return is that you merely get in touch with your many friends.

And soon you will be able to tell us who is the man known as the Scarlet Pimpernel.

>> You want me to be a spy?

>> (laughing) You've been too long in politics not to be a realist.

A little piece of information, we give you your life.

>> God gave me my life.

And he will take it away as soon as it pleases him.

But now my family has gone to the guillotine.

My one wish is to follow.

>> Would it alter your outlook to hear that your family is alive?

>> Don't trifle with me.

>> I sent them to the guillotine for the future happiness of the human race.

But I do not allow torture.

>> Where are they?

I saw them being dragged towards the tundril.

>> On the way to the guillotine, the band of the Scarlet Pimpernel snatched them away.

>> Where are they?

>> Probably in England by this time.

>> To his Majesty, King George III.

God bless him for his hospitality to us poor exiles.

>> To King Louis of France.

May God protect him.

>> And to your husband, madame.

>> I hope the Scarlet Pimpernel and you gentlemen will rescue him as you did us.

>> Scarlet Pimpernel, what a trill name.

What does it mean?

>> It is a humble, wayside flower, mademoiselle.

It hides the identity of the best and bravest men in all the world.

>> Do you know, Sir Andrew, my best friend is in London, Margaret St. Just.

>> Suzanne, how often am I to tell you, I will not have that woman's name mentioned in my presence.

>> But, Mother, you can't believe that dreadful story.

>> What story?

>> It's the truth.

Margaret St. Just denounced the Marquis d'Sancerre and his family to the tribunal.

They all went to the guillotine.

>> Margaret St. Just?

>> Yes.

She married an Englishmen.

Do you know her?

>> Know her?

Everybody in London knows Lady Blakeney.

>> Lady Blakeney, have you something in your mouth?

>> Not now, Mr. Romney.

>> I can't do justice to that lovely face when it's all bulged out with bonbons.

You may talk if you like, but no bonbons.

And no gestures, please.

>> All right, Mr. Romney.

I'll tell you what it is about the Pimpernel that tantalizes me so.

It's his insufferable modesty.

There's no excuse for it.

It's maddening to think that somewhere there's a man as marvelous as that.

And we've never seen him, even though he was with us together.

>> Lady Blakeney, I said no gestures, please.

>> (laughing) Oh, you must remember that I'm a French woman.

And when I talk, I must use these, as well as this.

>> We have the Tournay family arriving in Dover today.

>> All except the father.

We'll just have to go back for him.

It's going to be devilish awkward after what's happened.

>> Well, I'll go, and so will Hastings if you'll let us.

>> We'll all go if it comes to that.

But even so, we're only 20.

Yesterday, 30 people went to the guillotine.

>> Are you trying to suggest there aren't enough of us?

>> Now, see, there isn't a decent Englishman wouldn't be proud to join us.

We could be 500, 1,000 within a week.

>> Mm, and within another week, every one of us would be a marked man and we shouldn't be able to rescue a single soul.

Mere force is useless against people who are neither cowards nor fools.

We must match courage with courage, and cunning with still greater cunning if we are to do anything at all.

We're all willing to give our lives.

But we must do more than that.

We must mask our identities, suffer the humiliation of being taken for fops, fools, nitwits, cowards.

>> So many people die every day that could be saved.

>> You think I don't feel that?

Do you think I like sitting there in the shadow of the night while one head falls after another, people I know and love, innocent people, kindly people, herded like sheep, butchered like cattle by men who make high-sounding principles an excuse for the most bestial cruelty.

Robespierre's liberty is equality.

(man coughing) Well, sink me if it isn't Colonel Ramsbottom.

Well, how are you, Ramsbottom?

>> Winterbottom, sir!

(men laughing) >> Ramsbottom, what a ridiculous mistake.

Allow me to explain, Colonel.

>> Oh, you're an ass, Blakeney.

>> Odds blood, this club wants cheering up.

Sink me, the place is a mausoleum.

>> Are you being offensive, sir?

>> Who, sir?

Me, sir?

No, sir.

Stab me, I'm bubbling over with good humor this morning.

Would you believe me?

I've just written a masterpiece.

>> Who, sir?

You, sir?

>> Me, sir.

>> No, sir!

>> Yes, sir, all about this mysterious Pimpernel fellow.

How it came to me, Heaven only knows.

Because it was the busiest moment of the day.

Damn me, I was tying my cravat.

(man scoffs) Oh, well, here it is.

"The Scarlet Pimpernel" by Sir Percival Blakeney.

>> What!

>> Well, that's the title.

They seek him here.

They seek him there.

Those Frenchies seek him everywhere.

Is he in Heaven?

Is he in Hell?

That damned elusive Pimpernel.

Well?

>> Hm, not bad.

>> Not bad?

It's damn good.

I'll write it out simply.

Then you can all learn it.

Yes.

Well, good day, gentlemen.

Goodbye, Higgybottom.

>> Winterbottom!

Curse you!

>> I beg your pardon, didn't I say Winterbottom?

>> Ah!

Witty, young jackanapes!

>> Ah, they're all alike, these fashionable puppies.

>> Insufferable.

What that young man needs is a year or two's hard campaigning, tasting fodder, and shot, and a going privation.

>> I can't imagine Blakeney running into much danger.

>> (coughing) Not he.

He doesn't belong to our vintage.

>> Servant: It's not my fault.

>> You have a natural impotence this morning.

Small importance to me whose fault it is.

>> I'm sorry, sir.

>> The man who could put starch in my jabeaux is equally capable of putting poison in my coffee.

(women laughing) There, you see?

I'm a laughing stock.

And rightly so.

Look at the cursed thing, sticking out like a barber's pole.

Sink me, the thing is a disaster.

Go away, Brinker, you dreadful fellow.

Ladies, your servant.

Margarite, your slave.

Ah, Romney.

How are you?

And how is the portrait progressing?

Hm.

The eyes are wrong, aren't they?

And is the nose all right?

You know, I rather think you've missed the mouth altogether.

Yes, you have.

Otherwise, it's the image of her.

(chuckling) >> I think that'll be enough for today.

>> Go on, Mr. Romney.

You're tired.

And so am I.

>> Tired?

Oh, me, too.

You know, dear lady, I've just been to bath to be cured of the fatigue.

And now I'm so fatigued by the cure that I really think I shall have to go back to bath again to be cured of the fatigue.

(women laughing) (women chattering) Goodbye.

>> Goodbye.

>> Bye, Lady Blakeney.

Thank you.

(all chattering) >> Goodbye, Sir Percy.

>> Goodbye, goodbye.

Goodbye.

>> What do you think of it?

>> It's clever.

But there's something lacking.

>> What?

>> I don't know.

There's a look.

Look in the eyes.

He's lost it.

>> Perhaps I've lost it.

Perhaps it was happiness.

>> Good gad, my dear.

How you could be unhappy I can't imagine.

>> Can't you?

Percy, can't you?

>> Oh, cursed if I can.

Why, you're the most courted woman in town.

>> By whom?

>> By everybody.

>> Except you.

>> Damn it, my dear, I'm your husband.

>> Months after we were married, we were still happy.

And then came this estrangement, which Heaven knows is none of my making.

>> Can you honestly say that?

>> Can you honestly deny that you've changed?

You've so changed that I scarcely know you.

You're never with me now.

You're always away on some pretext.

I'm always alone.

>> Then I've mighty good news for you, my dear.

Your brother's arriving from Paris.

>> Armand?

>> Yes.

>> When?

>> At any moment.

And then you won't be alone, will you?

>> When am I going to see you again?

>> Whenever you wish to.

>> Well, then, every day?

>> Suzanne.

>> Where's the Chief?

>> He went straight up to town yesterday, as soon as he arrived here.

>> And you hold his trust?

>> Yes.

We're to wait here till night for a message from Armand St. Just.

>> Right.

>> Did you follow them?

>> Yes.

Sailor gave a letter to them at the boats.

>> Did you get it?

>> Wasn't easy.

But they have six men there.

>> Where are they now?

>> Gagged and barred on the ship.

>> Well done.

We'll release them tomorrow.

Watch every move they make.

Bayer, go to France at once.

The moment St. Just returns, arrest him.

Armand St. Just.

Margarite St. Just, the famous actress.

She will give a great performance by Republican command for her brother's sake.

>> Percy, I don't want Armand to go back to France.

If you help me, we can keep him in England.

He'll settle down here, marry a nice girl, and have lovely children.

>> What a dreadful prospect.

What has poor Armand done to be sentenced to matrimony?

You should know better, my dear.

>> You're unhappy, why?

>> Armand, I have the satisfaction of knowing that the biggest fool in England has the most complete contempt for his wife.

>> Percy?

How did it happen?

>> I don't know.

I only know that when I married him, he was a man.

He was my lover.

I was glad to give up everything for him.

And now... You mustn't leave me, Armand.

I need you.

I'm all alone.

>> I can't stay.

>> You're going back to France?

But it's not safe!

>> For me?

I'm no aristocrat.

>> For anyone, under the terror.

>> I have to look after the Blakeney estate in France.

>> Oh, Percy is so rich, what does it mean to him?

He's not even interested in his English estates.

Simple terror, he wouldn't go over to France for all the treasures in the world.

Why should you risk your life for his money?

>> Oh, I don't risk my life.

Don't worry, darling.

Percy, may I ask you something?

What's happened to you and Margarite?

>> Marriage, I suppose.

Why?

>> You loved her once, I know.

>> You remember the first family to go to the guillotine?

The Sancerres.

They told me it was Margarite who decnounced them.

>> It was a lie.

>> I wish I could believe that.

>> Did you ask her?

>> I did.

She flashed back a yes as sharp as the knife of the guillotine.

I watched that execution.

The marquis, his wife, his son.

And it was my wife who put them there.

>> So that's why you cease to love her.

What a tragedy.

>> Ceased?

I shall love her till I die.

That's the tragedy.

>> And it's to make up for what she did to them that you risk your own life, week after week, to rescue the others.

>> (laughs) Don't be so heroic, Armand.

I got a smack in the eye, and I took refuge in sport.

And what a sport!

(laughing) My gad, I think I shall give up fox hunting this winter.

>> Ah, what do you think of it?

>> Most refined, sir.

Vastly becoming, indeed.

>> Becoming, yes.

>> Now, there's a coat that you can wear with comfort, sir.

>> You know perfectly well I can wear nothing with comfort, until Sir Percy says so.

Where is that jackanapes?

>> Who, sir?

>> You, sir!

>> Here, sir.

>> And now tell Treadle what's wrong with this coat, heh.

>> Hm.

The back is admirable.

The front's fair.

The color is passable.

But the sleeve, Treadle, the cuff, my poorly naive friend.

>> That, Sir Percy, is the last word in cuffs.

>> Oh, gad, I should hope so, for there should never be another like it.

(men laughing) >> Oh, come, now.

It's not too bad.

>> You see, Sir Percy, his Royal Highness approves.

>> My poor Treadle, his Royal Highness does nothing of the kind.

He says it's not so bad.

And nothing in the world is so bad as something which is not so bad.

>> But Sir Percy- >> No, it's a crime, Treadle.

Worse, a blunder.

And quite, quite fatal to my reputation.

>> Why to your reputation?

>> Because all the world knows that his Royal Highness is guided by my taste.

>> Ah, yes, Percy is an expert on coats.

>> And riches, sir.

I'm a very wonder with the inexpressibles.

Isn't that so, Treadle?

>> Well, yes, up to a point.

>> Now, Treadle, why must you be so cursed jealous?

Look at that puny sleeve, that miserable dish rag of lace.

Odd's fish, looks like the lining hanging down.

>> 'Twas only intended for a plain cuff.

>> Plain is as ugly as a Parson's widow.

Open up your sleeve, man.

Let your ruffles take the air.

Let them flow, let them ripple, so that when his Royal Highness takes snuff, 'twill be a swallow's flight.

>> That's it!

Why, damn it, Percy, you're brainless, spineless, useless, but you do know clothes.

>> Odd's fish, that's something, isn't it, sir?

>> Treadle, Treadle.

>> Yes, your Highness?

>> Don't forget what Sir Percy says about the sleeve, a swallow's flight.

>> Yes, your Highness.

>> Flight of a swallow.

Come along, come along, gentlemen.

>> Oh, by the way, Wilmot.

>> Chauvelin has arrived in London.

>> Have him watched.

I'm just off to a fight, the Prince.

Report to me there.

>> Very good.

(people shouting) (crowd cheering) >> Mendoza's groggy.

He's down.

>> Don't you believe it, sir.

He's boxing.

You wait till the 30th round.

>> I wager 100 guineas he won't last two more rounds.

>> Ah, come on, Mendoza!

>> Come on, Jackson!

>> You'd better hedge, Percy.

>> Hedge me, then.

Or I'll double it.

>> Come on!

>> Gads, Percy must be mad!

Mendoza's finished!

(crowd cheering) >> Get up, Mendoza!

Where is he?

Where is he?

>> He's at your house.

>> No, I will not.

You tricked me once into giving you information about the Marquis Sancerre.

I shall never forgive myself.

>> I'm sick of this sentimental twaddle about the poor, persecuted aristocrats.

Have you forgotten what they did to the defenseless peasantry for centuries, what this very Sancerre did to you?

>> No, I have not.

But I'm no spy.

>> That is your last word?

>> Absolutely.

>> I wonder.

Oh by the way, how is your brother, Armand?

>> Very well I hope.

>> I hope so, too.

But yesterday he was arrested.

>> Arrested?

>> At Bel Oiseau.

>> What for?

>> As a traitor to his country.

>> Traitor?

You're lying, Chauvelin.

Trying to trick me again.

>> I have the proof of his guilt in my pocket.

This scrap of paper will certainly send your brother to the guillotine.

Unless, of course, you care to redeem him.

Bring me the name of the Pimpernel and this is yours.

>> But even if I wanted to, I don't know it.

>> Find it!

>> How can I if you can't with an army of spies?

>> Because you go everywhere and know everyone in his circle.

That much I do know.

And this also, that he will be among the guests tomorrow night at the Grenville ball.

>> So will half the world.

This isn't possible.

>> You're a clever woman whose brother's life is at stake.

Nothing is impossible.

Well?

>> No, Chauvelin.

I won't.

>> Very well, then.

>> Chauvelin!

>> My lady?

>> Do you swear to give me that paper?

>> The moment I catch the Scarlet Pimpernel.

>> The sound of that name again?

I've heard nothing else all day, at the club, the fight, and now here.

I protest, the fellow's a public nuisance.

I beg your pardon, my dear.

Do I intrude?

>> No, no.

This is an old acquaintance, Missieur Chauvelin, the French ambassador.

My husband.

>> Charmed, delighted, enchanted.

Devilish clever race, the French.

How they speak that unspeakable language of theirs defeats me.

>> You flatter us, Sir Percy.

>> No, no, you've got the cleverist heads in the world.

The only trouble is you all go to pieces 'round the neck.

>> 'Round the neck?

>> Yes.

Now look at that thing.

Sink me, what a mess.

Now, if you'd really like to know how to tie a cravat, I'll tell you.

But it isn't easy, mind you.

It takes all my brains.

>> I'm sure it would.

>> (laughing) Yes.

Well, now, look here.

Well, you see, first of all, the thing goes twice 'round the neck.

And then the front folds back to allow the back to come to the front.

Otherwise, the front would be all behind as well as before it.

>> Percy, what are you talking about?

>> You don't follow me, my dear?

That's exactly what I say.

It takes brains, doesn't it?

>> One can see that.

>> (laughing) Yes, of course.

>> Good day, Lady Blakeney.

>> Oh, no, no, don't go.

You and my wife must have so much to say to each other.

>> We have.

But then I promised myself a little tate and tate with Lady Blakeney at Lord Grenville's ball tomorrow night.

>> Good.

Tomorrow night, then.

But before you go, you must hear my verse about that cursed Pimpernel fellow.

You'll love it.

Listen.

They seek him here.

They seek him there.

Those Frenchies seek him everywhere.

Is he in Heaven?

Is he in Hell?

That damned elusive Pimpernel.

>> Delightful.

>> Well?

(chuckles) >> Especially that line, "those Frenchies seek him everywhere."

>> Yes, I like that, too.

Because, you see, I hear that they do.

And that gives the line a sort of something that sort of gives it something, if I make myself clear.

>> Clear as crystal.

(Percy chuckles) Good day, my dear Sir Percy.

>> Bonjour, monsieur, as the French say.

(giggles) Bonjour!

(laughs) Magnificent fight, this afternoon, my dear.

Gad, that fellow, Mendoza, has got quick ears.

In the tenth round, when Jackson had him down, I shouted, "Get up, Mendoza!"

And damn it, he did.

And sink me, he won.

>> Do you think Andrew Ffoulkes might be the Scarlet Pimpernel?

>> Andrew?

Never.

He couldn't hit a ball, I think.

Why?

What's your interest in the Scarlet Pimpernel?

>> No more than any other of us.

We'd all like to know who he is.

>> So would your friend, Chauvelin, hm, my dear?

>> What makes you say that?

>> Percy: Well, isn't that what he's here for?

Did he tell you?

>> Why should he?

>> Why not?

Mind you, the man's clever.

But the fellow can't even tie his own cravat.

Isn't likely to put a noose around the Pimpernel's neck, is he?

>> Really, Percy, can you never rise above trivialities?

>> Can't rise above anything more than three syllables, my dear.

Never could.

>> Nonsense.

You were a man once, a man a woman could look up to, could turn to in trouble.

And now, (sighs) I wouldn't know where to begin.

>> Couldn't you begin by telling me what the trouble is?

>> What is the use?

We don't even speak the same language.

(lively instrumental music) >> Miss Goblet of Brinsley Cerevelle.

The Countess de Tournay.

Mademoiselle de Tournay.

The Viscount de Tournay.

Lord and Lady L. Tournay.

The Armand Countess of Garol.

>> Well, here's our friend.

>> Bonsoir, monsieur, as you say.

>> Good evening, Sir Percy.

My lady.

>> My dear, look at that cravat.

You're a monstrous quick learner, sir.

Permit me.

There.

Perfect.

Perfect!

Another week and we won't know you from an Englishman.

>> From an Englishman?

That is praise, indeed.

(women laughing) >> Oh, Sir Percy, what is this poem everybody is talking about?

>> Poem?

>> Yes, yes.

All about the Scarlet Pimpernel.

>> Oh, yes, there's no escape.

>> No, there's not.

>> Forgive me, my dear.

Take our friend 'round and tell him who everybody is, if anybody is anybody.

(chuckling) (women laughing) >> That's exactly like you.

>> I only want to know who one person is.

And you know the alternative.

The Pimpernel is under this roof, at this moment, among your friends.

Your move, my lady.

Good luck.

>> Margarite.

>> Suzanne.

>> Suzanne.

>> The thing rhymes, you see, in four places.

And if you can get a rhyme to rhyme, that makes it a poem, if you follow me.

>> (laughing) Yes, of course.

But what is it?

>> "The Scarlet Pimpernel," by Sir Percy Blakeney Baronet.

(women laughing) My ladies, that's only the name.

>> Go on!

>> They seek him here.

They seek him there.

Those Frenchies seek him everywhere.

Is he in Heaven?

Is he in... (chuckles) That damned elusive Pimpernel.

>> Oh, that's marvelous!

It rhymes!

>> Oh, yes, it's a poem.

(giggling) >> All: They seek him here.

They seek him there.

Those Frenchies seek him everywhere.

Is he in Heaven?

Is he in... That damned elusive Pimpernel.

>> Oh, it's marvelous.

(lively instrumental music) >> You like it?

I can tell you another one.

That's a monstrous good color.

(women laugh) Hastings, who made that coat?

>> Beagle and Beagle.

>> Oh, it's blood.

Sink me if they're not better than old Master Treadle.

>> Ffoulkes and Dewhurst are free.

>> Escaped?

>> No, released.

They're coming on here immediately.

>> Of course.

That's why they were released, to lead a trail to the rest of us.

I shall be in the library at midnight.

>> His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales.

>> Ladies, please.

Ladies, gentlemen, please.

Ah, Grenville.

(lively instrumental music) Good evening, ladies.

Good evening, gentlemen.

Please, bid you.

>> Any news from France, General?

>> The worst, sir.

>> The King?

>> Doomed.

>> Can't we do anything?

>> We recalled our ambassador months ago.

Chauvelin had the impudence to accept my invitation.

Will your Highness permit, Monsieur Chauvelin, the unofficial ambassador for the French government.

>> Monsieur, we'll try to forget the government who sent you and look upon you merely as our guest, a private gentleman from France.

As such are you welcome, Monsieur.

(laughing) Ladies.

(people chattering) Lady Blakeney with a sad face?

(laughs) But sadness is for mere mortals, my lady.

Never, never for gods.

>> Alas, even a goddess must have moments when she's just a plain woman.

>> Silence, Madame.

Lady Blakeney could never become a plain woman at any moment.

(laughs) That's better.

Now, come and help me through my princely faces.

>> I claim your permission to present, your Royal Highness, the Countess de Tournay, my daughter.

>> This is a pleasure, Madame.

Ah, charming, charming.

You and Lady Blakeney must become great friends, Madame.

Her friends are my friends.

And her enemies, the enemies of England.

>> We observe, Madame, and show our gratitude to England by our regotion to the wishes of your (indistinct).

Suzanne.

>> Suzanne!

>> Margarite!

>> They were school fellows in the convent in Paris.

>> Ah, charming, Madame.

>> Your Royal Highness, I accepted Lord Grenville's gracious invitation solely to implore your Highness to do something to save my husband.

>> Madame, the government does everything in its power to save those who are affected, my dear, from the prisons of the French Republic.

But if a country goes mad, it has the right to commit every horror within its own walls.

>> Hastings slipped a note into Sir Andrew Ffoulkes's cuff.

Thank you, sir.

(people chattering) >> Ah, Lady Blakeney, won't you take pity on a lonely compatriot?

>> Are you asking me to dance with you?

>> Not with me, Mr. Andrew Ffoulkes.

>> Why?

>> He has a note in his cuff.

Get it.

>> Listen, Chauvelin- >> Get it.

(bells jingling) >> Your Royal Highness, your Greatness, my lords, ladies, and gentlemen, please take your places for the Minuet.

(lighthearted instrumental music) >> Please, it's nothing.

It's just the heat.

Sir Andrew, would you be kind enough to see me upstairs?

>> Of course.

This way, Lady Blakeney.

You'll be all right in a moment.

Lady Blakeney, try a central position.

>> No, no.

I'm so sorry.

I'll be all right in a minute.

(breathing heavily) >> Would you rather be left alone?

>> No, please don't leave me.

Just wait a second.

I'll be all right.

Ahh!

How clever of you.

Almost as good as a burnt feather for faintness.

There.

I feel better already.

Would you be kind enough to bring me my fan?

It was a love letter.

And you sacrificed it for me.

What a shame.

But I'll ask her to write you another, shall I?

Suzanne.

>> Are you feeling better, darling?

>> I've spoiled Sir Andrew's dance.

Would you make it up to him by finishing it for me?

>> Well?

Did you get it?

>> He burnt it.

But I got a glimpse of what was left.

It began... >> Well, go on.

>> "Stop tomorrow, myself."

And ended, "Will be in the library at midnight."

(tense instrumental music) (clock chiming) (lighthearted instrumental music) (Chauvelin snoring) (Chauvelin snoring) Thank you, Merriam, you can go to bed.

>> See that Sir Andrew Ffaulkes gets this.

My dear?

>> Percy.

>> All right, Brinker.

Well, my dear?

>> It's about Armand.

He's in the most terrible danger.

They've arrested him at Bel Oiseau.

>> How do you know?

>> Chauvelin told me.

>> When?

>> Yesterday.

>> Why didn't you tell me when I asked you?

>> I don't know.

I...

He threatened me.

>> Percy: And why are you telling me now?

>> Because I thought you might do something for Armand.

You have influence at court.

>> Didn't you ask your friend, Chauvelin, for help?

>> He promised me that...

I don't trust him.

>> He promised you the life of your brother.

What did you give him in exchange?

>> What has happened to you, Percy?

You hate me.

>> Why did you denounce the Marquis Sancerre?

>> So that's it.

Why did you never ask me what the Marquis de Sancerre did to me?

>> You didn't even know him.

>> No, I didn't even know him.

>> Well, then.

>> But I knew his son.

I was only 17 when he asked me to marry him.

His father heard about it and had me arrested and sent to San Misarre.

Do you know what San Misarre is?

Do you know the sort of women that are sent there?

I would have killed myself.

Only... >> Only what?

>> Revolution came.

The ever-glorious 14th of July.

And I was free.

>> Why this tardy explanation?

I asked you once if you sent the Sancerres to the guillotine.

You said yes.

>> You believed so easily, didn't you?

And yet, I still ask myself, am I really guilty of their deaths?

>> If not you, who is?

>> He traveled to Austria.

I told a friend, a man who I thought a friend.

He denounced him.

The terror did the rest.

>> Who was that friend?

Was it Chauvelin?

He promised you your brother's life.

What price did you pay for it?

What price did you pay for it?

>> I paid a horrible price.

>> Well?

>> I betrayed the Scarlet Pimpernel.

>> How?

>> Ffaulkes had a scrap of paper in his cuff.

I read it and told Chauvelin that the Pimpernel would be in the library at midnight.

>> And was he in the library at midnight?

>> Chauvelin says he wasn't.

But I think he's lying.

And through my betrayal, a noble and generous man might lose his life.

What am I to do, Percy?

How can I warn him?

>> Warn him?

Against what?

>> Against the danger that threatens him if he goes back to France.

>> My dear, if he's the kind of lunatic I take him to be, your warning won't stop him.

>> But he might be going to his death.

>> Well, that's all the fellow lives for.

Besides, he doesn't know you're in love with him.

>> I'm not in love with him.

I admire his heroism.

But I don't love him.

>> Oh, but you do.

And you don't know it.

I didn't know it myself until a moment ago.

>> Percy, please don't joke about it.

>> It's no joke.

Believe me.

Dangerous game, falling in love with a phantom, my dear.

For all you know, he may be a married man who's deeply in love with his wife.

>> Never.

>> Why not?

>> Would any man who was in love with his wife leave her continually to face death?

Would you?

>> Me?

Sounds I'm much more romantic than you think.

In a case like that, I wouldn't leave you.

Not even to go to my tailor's.

>> Brinker: Your horses are ready, sir.

>> Thank you, Brinker.

>> Are you going away?

>> Oh, yes.

Didn't I tell you?

Important business in town.

Goodbye, my dear.

>> Margarite: Your tailor's, I suppose.

>> Not only my tailor's, but also my boot maker.

And, incidentally, I want to see what my influence is worth at Court, that little matter of your brother's.

Perhaps I can help.

>> Oh, Percy, if you could, I'd love you all my life.

>> Gad, I must remember that, my dear.

Goodbye.

(clock tolling) >> What is it, Brinker?

>> It's six o'clock, my lady.

>> I suppose you want me to leave this room.

I've never been here quite alone, have I?

>> No, my lady.

>> All right, Brinker, thank you.

(clock tolling) Percy.

Percy!

Brinker, Brinker.

>> My lady, a letter to be delivered into your ladyship's hands.

>> From Sir Percy?

>> No, Madame, from his Excellency, the French ambassador.

>> Where is Monsieur Chauvelin?

>> He left this morning for France, Madame.

>> All right, thank you.

Brinker, the carriage.

>> Good, my lady.

(knocking on door) (knocking on door) >> Sir Andrew Ffoulkes in?

>> Yes, my lady.

I'll call Sir Andrew, my lady.

>> Lady Blakeney, what's happened?

>> Sir Andrew, there's no time to waste in talking.

Just listen to me.

Your leader and friend, the Scarlet Pimpernel, my husband- >> How do know that, my lady?

>> Don't ask me any questions now.

He's in deadly peril.

Chauvelin knows that Percy Blakeney and the Scarlet Pimpernel are one in the same.

>> How did Chauvelin come to know?

>> Through me.

>> You mean to say that you betrayed him?

>> Yes, yes, yes, I betrayed him.

Never mind how.

Just tell me this.

Has Percy left for Bel Oiseau?

>> Yes.

>> To save my brother?

>> And de Tournay.

>> What is their meeting place in Bel Oiseau?

>> Why?

Do you want to- >> Oh, look at me, man.

Do I look like a woman who wants to send her husband to his death?

I want to find Percy to warn him, to save him, or to die with him.

>> I'll go with you.

>> Can you bring your friends?

>> 10 of them.

The rest are in France.

Percy has forbidden us to go over.

But for the first time, we'd rather disobey him.

>> I'll save Percy even if I have to kill Chauvelin.

And if he goes to the guillotine, I'll go after him.

(crowd chattering) >> There you are, citizens!

For Lorraine has a guillotine of its own now.

Same as Paris.

>> That's nothing.

Half the towns in France have got 'em.

>> Let 'er go, Francois.

(laughing) Good, eh?

>> So much for the bait.

Now for the trap.

We can't afford to make any mistakes this time.

Remember, it's either the Pimpernel or ourselves for the guillotine.

>> Robespierre knows he's here.

>> Yes.

Then that must be spread with more than cunning.

Blakeney's no fool.

And besides, he's a master of makeup and disguise.

He may turn up as an old woman, a peddler with a pack, a peasant with a beard, anything!

>> They've got the Scarlet Pimpernel!

Hey!

Back, everybody!

Back!

Listen, my friend, the next time you want to put on a false beard, choose a good one.

For the bird's nest that wouldn't deceive a child.

(men laughing) >> Clumsy idiot!

Let go, you!

I'll teach him to pull the best beard in Bel Oiseau!

(people laughing) >> I've never been so insulted in my life!

You disgusting, driveling monkeys, you!

You'll hear more of this!

Honest woman, I am.

One of the few in our street.

Stripped naked by soldiers!

And then searched to see if I was a man!

(stately music) >> Listen, Captain.

If I were 20 years younger, that's where I should be.

>> Bravo, Uncle.

That's the spirit.

>> Where are you boys serving now?

>> Oh, we're on leave.

>> Stealing away the hearts of girls of Bel Oiseau?

>> Oh, no, sir.

I'm in love.

>> Ah, you bastard.

It's the wife of another man.

>> No, it's my own.

(laughs) >> Captain, I'll tell you a secret.

You and I are the only men in France who are in love with our wives.

>> Hooray, let's drink to it!

Well, here's to it.

(glasses clinking) >> But it'll be hard for you to leave her for this war with England.

>> Oh, you think that's coming, do you?

>> Surely.

We shall have to teach Perfidious Albion and listen!

>> Well, it won't take us long to get across the channel, will it, boys?

>> Well, gentlemen good luck and goodnight.

>> Goodnight.

>> Goodnight.

>> de Tournay was brought here from Paris yesterday.

The same prison as Armand.

>> I thought so.

Chauvelin's using them as bait.

>> Search every incoming ship.

Even the smallest fishing boat.

And you... >> de Tournay and St. Just have escaped!

>> Escaped?

How?

>> God knows.

>> The Pimpernel knows.

Someone will pay for this.

Where are the jailers?

>> Missing.

>> Citizen Chauvelin!

>> How dare you burst in like this.

Who are you?

>> Jailer from the prison!

>> So you're one of them!

>> It was no fault of mine, Citizen.

The head general and the others would have killed me if I hadn't taken the money to free those accursed aristocrats!

>> What?

>> Pimpernel is taking them to England.

Promised us all jobs there.

I'm a good patriot citizen, Chauvelin.

I'm not losing my head.

'Cause I've got some information that will save yours.

What is it worth?

>> What do you know?

>> Where you can find the Scarlet Pimpernel.

>> Out with it.

Where?

>> He told us to meet him at 10 o'clock upon Leon d'Eures.

>> Take him away.

10 o'clock at the Leon d'Eures.

(boat creaking) (men shouting indistinctly) >> There's the Leon d'Eures.

>> Tell the men to get the boat and row me ashore.

>> We must wait for the signal.

When Brogar waves the lantern, cross the window for safe.

Up and down for danger.

>> Look.

There's a signal.

Safe.

>> You've got all the roads watched?

>> Every corner.

And the beach.

>> And a troop of your goons to surround the place?

>> Waiting outside.

>> Come on, then.

To Leon d'Eures.

(knocking on door) >> Good evening.

>> What do you want here?

This is no place for one of your sort.

>> I'm the sort that pays well, Citizen Brogar.

>> For what?

>> For a seat by the fire.

I'll wait here for a friend of mine, and yours.

>> What should I know of your friends?

>> You signaled him just now.

You must be expecting him.

What time?

What time?

>> 10 o'clock.

>> Brogar, hide.

>> Brogar: Quick!

To the attic!

>> Citizen Brogar?

>> Yes?

>> Under arrest.

>> What for?

>> Betraying the Republic!

Helping the enemies of France, harboring a gang a dangerous criminals, smuggling aristocrats out of the country.

>> That's a lie.

>> You've got one chance.

Take it or I'll hang you now from your own sign.

The leader of your gang is coming here tonight, isn't he?

Isn't he?

>> Yes.

>> What time?

>> He ordered his boat to be off the point at 10 o'clock.

>> Ah, but he'll call here first for his passengers, won't he?

>> He might.

>> Might?

You'd look pretty swinging in the wind.

How does he know it's safe?

What is the signal?

>> A lantern in the attic window, waved up and down for danger, across the window when all is clear.

>> Come on, Sergeant.

That is the wrong signal, Lady Blakeney.

That will keep Sir Percy away.

This is the right one.

This will bring him here.

And I can see you are longing to see him, as I am, myself.

What a great actor Sir Percy is.

A thousand ways to cheat the poor, stupid officials of the Republic.

Look, costumes, wigs, paint.

What will he be next?

In what disguise will he arrive when the clock strikes 10:00?

I must arrange a reassuring atmosphere for him.

An old woman?

No, he has overdone that.

A priest.

What could be more harmless?

And so useful when it comes to the last opposite.

Sergeant, you shall have the privilege of watching over the Republic's most charming prisoner for the rest of the evening.

My lady.

Jacques.

>> Citizen.

>> Everything ready?

>> The dragoons should be here at any moment.

>> Arrange for a firing squad as soon as they arrive.

>> Are you so certain you'll get him?

>> Quite, thanks to a charming friend I found in there.

What time is it?

>> Quarter to 10:00.

>> Remember, he has to think his way is clear.

He must not suspect anything until he's in the trap.

(clock tolling) (Percy whistling) (Percy vocalizing) >> Good evening, Monsieur Chauvelin.

Nice of you to wait up for me.

Well, I had no idea you were in holy order.

>> This is only an innocent masquerade, like so many of your own, Sir Percy.

>> Ah, but mine were successful.

>> Mine might prove successful yet.

You walked in here quite freely.

But you won't walk out a free man.

>> (laughs) A prophet now, Monsieur Chauvelin?

>> The time for laughing has passed, Sir Percy.

I sought you for a year.

Your energy, your ingenuity, your audacity have been quite admirable.

But now, the game is up.

>> Because all the trumps are in your hand, eh?

>> Precisely.

This house is surrounded by my soldiers.

And I have only to raise my voice.

>> Yes, yes.

I see your point.

I see your point.

But suppose I could reach a door.

The night is black.

The sea is mine.

I make a dash... (laughs) I don't make a dash.

I don't need to.

Because one of my friends might shoot you, from behind, hidden in that clock.

(laughs) Oh, come, now.

No one really hides in a clock.

Besides, I still have one more avenue of escape open to me.

Don't move!

Gunpowder.

If I drop this in here, I fly straight to Heaven.

And you know where you fly to.

Don't be alarmed, Monsieur Chauvelin.

It's not gunpowder.

Thank you, Wilmot.

You've just arrived in time.

I've had five delightful minutes of Monsieur Chauvelin.

I trust it was time enough to get Armand and Tournay to safety.

>> Yes, Percy, they are safe.

>> Good.

Now we need five minutes.

Then I shan't trouble you anymore, for the moment.

>> We must have the password, Percy.

>> The password.

Do we have to use force?

>> Not at all, Sir Percy.

The password is, "the channel is free."

>> Splendid.

Wilmot, you get them onto the ship.

I'll take care of our friend here and join you in a minute.

That was quite sensible of you, Monseiur Chauvelin.

>> Not at all, Sir Percy.

You may go because I know you'll come back of your own free will.

>> You overestimate the charm of your society.

>> I told you once the time for jesting was over.

I have all the trumps in my hand.

In that room upstairs, there is a woman under arrest who has forfeited her life by aiding the enemies of the Republic.

>> What woman?

>> Lady Blakeney.

Is the game up, Sir Percy?

Is this the last adventure?

>> I give up, Chauvelin.

What next?

>> There is a firing squad outside.

>> Am I right?

>> The revolutionary tribunal.

>> That means death.

>> It would have meant my death if I had not caught you.

Don't be alarmed, Sir Percy.

I don't want your wife's life.

She's free the moment you die.

>> I offer you a pact.

If you promise to say nothing to her, if you send her onto my ship immediately, I'll walk up in front of your firing squad.

>> I accept.

Sergeant!

Bring the lady down.

>> Percy!

I wanted to give my life to save you.

Forgive me, Percy.

>> Oh, dear, it's nothing.

I'm in no danger.

>> Percy, I want to.

I want to die with you.

>> Help me, Chauvelin.

Her parting would be too cruel, even for you.

Just take her out while she's still unconscious.

My boat should be at the point by now.

Goodbye, my sweet.

It was good to know that you loved me, a little.

>> Dewhurst!

Send this lady to the English ship around the point!

If anybody attempts to land, shoot!

>> Yes, Citizen.

You two, go with him.

>> Do you like poetry, Monseiur Chauvelin?

>> That damned elusive Pimpernel.

>> No, no, I mean poetry.

"This other Eden, demi-paradise, this fortress built by nature for herself against infection and the hand of war.

This happy breed of men, this little world, this precious stone set in the silver sea.

This blessed plot, this Earth, this realm, this England."

Oh, dear me, I forget the rest.

>> Drill Sergeant: (indistinct) Halt!

Left, turn!

Guard, attention!

>> Dewhurst!

>> So now it appears I shan't have time to remember.

(drill sergeant shouts indistinctly) >> Drill Sergeant: Ready!

>> Present.

>> Drill Sergeant: Present!

>> Fire.

>> Drill Sergeant: Fire!

(gunshot booming) >> Finished?

>> I'm so sorry, Monsieur Chauvelin, I had to come back for my hat.

It's such a cursed-good hat, you know.

Now, now, don't look at me like that.

Sink me if you don't think I am my own ghost.

>> Duroc!

>> Captain Duroc?

I'm afraid it'll be an hour or so before poor Captain Duroc will be able to resume his duty.

I regret that I stuck him rather violently.

>> Seize him!

>> Oh, we're so impulsive, my dear Monsieur Chauvelin.

This is my firing squad.

Allow me to present Faulkes, Dewhurst, Hastings, Belfield, and the rest.

But of course, you know all about them.

You look rather excited, Chauvelin.

I think you need cooling down.

Just a peaceful little nap, like we had in the Grenville library.

>> Are we really free, Percy?

>> Not you, darling.

Chauvelin said you'd be free the moment I died.

It won't be a moment soon.

>> Land ahead!

>> Look, Margarite.

England.

(hopeful instrumental music)