NEPTUNE'S DAUGHTER by Tammy Gross 
Based on a true story 
TammyKGross@gmail.com407-247-1134 
FADE IN: [[part 1: TEASER -episode 1 of 3]] 
EXT. FLORIDA -OFF SHORE -NIGHT 
Thunder. Lightning. Vicious waves. Eleven large, heavy-laden Spanish ships sail northward. SUPER: "East Coast of Florida -July 1715" The lead ship's Neptune figurehead appears fittingly god-like 
under each flash of lightning. The ship lists to the left. Screaming passengers and a huge white dog slide down the 
deck. Spanish ADMIRAL SALMON (70) clings to the rising rail. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
ÁAsegure los ca–ones! 
Crewmen work to secure the cannons but they break free, bash down the vertical deck, take people with them overboard. 
Lightning snaps topmasts. 

UNDERWATER 
The massive reef shears the length of the hull. Gold, silver, pearls and jewels gush out over the reef. 
EXT. FLORIDA'S COASTLINE -DAY 
Wreckage, bodies, haggard survivors dot the miles of beach. 

EXT. FLORIDA -SPANISH SALVAGE CAMP -SAME  
Admiral Salmon, now gaunt and sunburned, steps out of the  
treeline onto the beach. Sees the mastiff bark at the water.  

ADMIRAL SALMON  
Ā D—nde  est‡  el mestizo?  

The men point nonchalantly to the water. 

UNDERWATER 
Peter struggles to free his hand. Pulls with all his might. 

ON SHORE 
The admiral motions to the lounging men. 

The Spaniards lazily rise to their feet. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 


UNDERWATER 
Peter is upside down, his legs kicking as he struggles in the shadows behind the Neptune. 

ON SHORE 
The men start to run in the sand, then halt. 
Peter emerges from the waves, walks toward them. He lifts two fistfuls of glistening gold coins and jingles them. 

The men cheer and crowd around him to take the coins. The dog knocks him down with friendly enthusiasm. 
[[part 1: end TEASER -act I]] 

EXT. FLORIDA -BEACH -NIGHT 
A campfire. PETER (30, Native-Anglo mix), in cut-off denims, slaps at mosquitos as he sleeps next to the big dog. SUPER: "treasure salvage camps -5 months later" 
A distant drum cadence startles Peter awake, to his feet. He dashes toward a large man-made sand barrier. Drums stop. Peter climbs and peers over the mound... 

SPANISH SALVAGE CAMP 
Colorfully dressed CAPTAIN RACKAM (38, English), cigar in mouth, faces off with Spanish Admiral Salmon, now thin and haggard, who carries a white flag. 
The rising sun reveals Rackam's torch-bearing CREW, a dozen cutthroats, distinguished by their brilliant-colored sashes. 
Behind them, another 150 armed sailors. 
On the water, the silhouettes of a small English flotilla. 
About 50 half-naked Black, Indian and Spanish wreckers stand with Admiral Salmon. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
Have we a war here? 
Rackam grins and hands papers to Salmon, who gives a cursory glance. 
RACKAM 
We've come for the seja de monte. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
We've already sent three hundred thousand pieces of eight to Havana. You are too late, Se–or Rackam. Salmon tries to hand back the paper. Rackam doesn't budge. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
These wrecks belong to His Catholic Majesty King Philip the Fifth of Spain! We recover what is rightfully his. The peace treaty protects us! 
Rackam crosses his arms. 
Salmon considers. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
I'll give you twenty-five thousand pieces of eight if you take your men and leave now. Peaceably. 
Rackam stares. Waits. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
Se–or, you make impossible demands. 
RACKAM 
Our German King on the English throne trumps your French King on the Spanish throne. We'll ponder the irony later. Where is it? 
Seething, Salmon weighs the odds... 
PETER 
(under his breath) Don't do it... Come on, admiral-.
ADMIRAL SALMON 
Very well. We have eighty-five thousand-.
Peter bounds over the sand mound and surfs down to them. 
PETER 
NO! This is piracy, almirante. You cannot give in to these diablos. 
Rackam glances at Peter then steps closer to Salmon. 
RACKAM 
(to himself) Infernal half-breed. (to Salmon et al) In the name of His Royal Protestant Majesty King George, we'll take it all. (points at Peter) Including that. He's one of ours. 
PETER 
You've no claim on me, Rackam. I have a contract to dive for the Spaniards. 
RACKAM 
No more, Hines. We need a striker. And you'll do. Bring us the treasure! 
Rackam's crewmen shoot guns into the air in celebration. 
Rackam tosses his cigar onto the thatch roof of the nearest hut; it catches fire. The gang follows suit. 
Tents and huts are set ablaze, cannons sabotaged, salvors terrorized. 

EXT. OCEAN -DAY 
SUPER: "Yucat‡n Channel, West Indies -6 months later" 
A dot in the vast Caribbean Sea is revealed to be a ship surrounded by two large, primitive, carved-out canoes. 
Lumberjack-like pirates spill from the canoes onto the ship. 

EXT. DUTCH SHIP DECK -DAY 
A stoic DUTCH CREW stand before a pile of weapons. Among them 
MATHIAS "MATTY" READ, seen from behind -dark hair pulled to a short cue, tall, thin, broad shouldered in a blue cavalry uniform -cuts a slow, deliberate path through the chaos. 
Last to board the ship from the canoes, brawny SAM BELLAMY (30, English) -long black hair tied by a black ribbon -brandishes cutlass and pistol at the crew. 
Big, brutish PEARCE WRIGHT (30s) rummages through the weapons. He spots an English saber. Holds it up. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Whose weapon is this? 
Wright shows Bellamy faded, small engraving on the hilt. 
BELLAMY 
Which of you is Mathias Read? 
The Dutch crewmen all look at each other in disbelief; they repeat the name "Mathias Read" to one another in whispers. Bellamy looks to the CAPTAIN for an explanation. 
DUTCH CAPTAIN 
In Holland this name is... notorious. 
BELLAMY 
Why? 
DUTCH CAPTAIN 
Legenda. How might you say? Songs. Wright grabs the Dutch cabin boy, aims a pistol at him. 
BELLAMY 
Tell us whose saber-.
MATTY (O.S.) 
(Dutch, subtitled) It is mine! 
Matty (24, English, female), in the convincing persona of a beardless young Englishman, steps forward. 
MATTY 
I'm Mathias Read. She removes a pipe from her mouth. Stares Bellamy down. 
DUTCH CREWMAN 
(Dutch, subtitled) Do not allow this, captain! These brutes will ravage her when they discover she is a woman. 
Matty scans the wild-eyed, hulking pirates. 
BELLAMY 
What did he say? 
MATTY 
He thinks you will brutalize your own countryman. Bellamy signals Wright to release the boy. He does. 
MATTY 
(to crew; Dutch, subtitled) 
None of you knew who I was! I can take care of myself. 
Bellamy points his sword at Matty. 
BELLAMY 
What could such a young lad have done to cause such a stir? 
MATTY 
Cavaliers are esteemed in Holland. I was a Dragoon during the war. I told them 
name was Morris. Didn't want them harpin' on about it... 
BELLAMY 
We've no use for horsemen, dragoon. Have you sailing experience? 
MATTY 
Midshipman. H.M.S. Hampton Court, before I joined the land war in Holland. Bellamy grins, as if he understands now. He shouts to all... 
BELLAMY 
On pain of death, we take all Englishmen. 
MATTY 
You have only meself. I joined 'em to work my way to the wrecks in America. 
BELLAMY 
Forsooth, the wrecks yield no profit thanks to pirates. 
MATTY 
I'm to take the word of a pirate, am I? Bellamy tosses the sheathed saber to Matty. 
BELLAMY 
Believe or nay. You're joining my war now, Mr. Read... 
Matty straps the saber to her hip. 
MATTY 
When the Admiralty catches up with ye, what name shall I give them? Bellamy removes the Dutch captain's cap then bows graciously. 
BELLAMY 
Captain Bellamy. He places the cap on his head, then reconsiders. 
BELLAMY 
Make that "Black Sam Bellamy." I like the sound of it. 

EXT. OCEAN -NIGHT 
The two canoes cut the water under power of the muscled Baymen. Wright helms one. 
Astern at the tiller of the second canoe, Matty glares, murder in her eyes, at Bellamy at the helm. 

EXT. ENGLISH MERCHANT SHIP -DAY 
Mayhem. The 40 Baymen battle 60 ENGLISH SAILORS with everything from cutlass to oar for weapons. Matty stands by the rail, away from them all, disgusted. Eventually, only two sword fights continue... 

AT THE STERN 
Bellamy crosses swords with CAPTAIN YOUNG, an old man clearly out-muscled by Bellamy's superior swordsmanship. Both crews watch with noisy interest. Matty watches silently. 
BELLAMY 
Damn my blood, why do you risk your crew, ye old salt? 
CAPTAIN YOUNG 
Why do you think you've a right to my ship, ye pirate? 
Bellamy answers with a harsh blow, nearly knocking the blade from Young's hand. 

AT THE BOW 
DENNIS "MICK" MACARTY (25, Irish) clashes with Young's Philadelphian deckhand JIM DOBBINS (18). 
Pistol in hand, Wright heads past Matty toward the young men. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Anything happens to that Mick, English blood will flow-.Matty stops him roughly by the arm. 
MATTY 
No one need die. Wright points the pistol at her. She ignores the threat and walks 
over to the duelers. She draws her saber. Waits for the right moment. In a flash, she whips her blade upward in a slick maneuver that 
sends both weapons flying out of their hands, overboard. The pair stare at each other. Wright is impressed. 

EXT. ENGLISH MERCHANT SHIP -LATER 
Matty smokes her pipe, watches the aftermath. 
Nailed to the bulkhead behind her is a notice: "WATCHLIST: Compelled men:" "Mathyas Reed" is the only name listed so far. 
The Baymen loot the seated merchant crew of everything from gold trinkets to feathers which they place in their caps. 
Bellamy slaps Matty's back as he passes her and shouts to the huddled merchant crew 
BELLAMY 
Who's ready to join Robin Hood's men of the West Indies? Six disparate men and an eager cabin boy rise to their feet. Dobbins makes a start, but catches Matty's eye and stays put. From the crow's nest Mick points east. 
MICK 
Sail! Sail! Wright, nearby, looks through a spy glass. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
She flies the royal--Zounds! 
Wright tosses the scope to Bellamy who SPIES the sloop Barsheba bear down on them from the east. 
BELLAMY 
Well, well. If it isn't Ol' Roger the devil hisself. 
MATTY 
Who is it? Bellamy runs up to the helm for a better vantage. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
John Rackam. He's why we're here and not at the wrecks. Spoiled it for all with his letter of marque. 
MATTY 
This Rackam is commissioned to dive the wrecks? Filled with hope, Matty watches the distant ship approach. 
BELLAMY 
(to the Baymen) Drop anchor! Load them periaguas with nothing but men and gold, my lads! Be quiet and quick about it. 
Baymen and the new recruits scramble to gather their gold. 
BELLAMY 
Read, strike the periagua sails. 
Matty breaks her gaze and hurries over the side to the first canoe, furls its sail. Wright follows suit in the second canoe. The rest climb in with 
their loot and the oars. 
Bellamy goes to Captain Young, still tied up. He cuts away Young's binding and salutes him, then runs off. Young starts after him, but falls flat. His feet are tied. 

EXT. OCEAN -DAY 
The Barsheba approaches Young's ship from the east. 
ON THE BARSHEBA 
John Rackam warily scrutinizes the anchored merchant sloop in the middle of nowhere. 
The bright sunset silhouettes Young's sloop in mystery. 
RACKAM 
Come along to them. 

ONYOUNG'S MERCHANT 
Bellamy jumps into Matty's canoe. Both canoes sit heavy and low, out of Rackam's sight. The crews untether. 
BELLAMY 
To windward! 
All the men begin to row hard around the sloop, directly toward the full-sailing Barsheba. 
ON THE BARSHEBA 
Net in hand, Peter climbs the aft railing for a better view. Peter now sports a colorful shirt with his cut-off denims. 
Rackam and MASTER GUNNER "CORNY" CORNER (50, Cornish) peer out at the approaching canoes. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Shall we do them harm, captain? The canoes split to each side when they reach the Barsheba. 
RACKAM 
'Twould be a waste of powder. Corny growls in disappointment. Rackam looks past the canoes to the sloop and grins. 
RACKAM 
Bigger prizes await, Mr. Corner. Peter points and laughs when he spots Bellamy's shiny cargo. 
PETER 
Someone's already fished the gold from that vessel. Rackam's men shout and run the length of the deck to look. 
RACKAM 
Devil to blazes! That's our prize. 
Matty looks up at Peter in his bright shirt. Determination fills her countenance. Peter stares back. Something's amiss with the lanky lad. 
Bellamy stands at the bow of his canoe. He thumbs his nose at Rackam as they glide past each other. 
BELLAMY 
Damn those sails of yours, Captain Rackam. Why, they're as full as...my bags of gold! 
Rackam scowls viciously at Bellamy as he passes. 


ON THE CANOES 
When the canoes come back together at the stern, Matty stands abruptly. The rocking nearly knocks Bellamy from the bow. 
BELLAMY 
Sit on your arse, Read! 
MATTY 
I'm done taking orders from pirates. Matty turns, ready to dive in the water-.Peter's fishing net falls in front of her. Startled, she grabs on. It yanks her out of the canoe and body 
slams her into Barsheba's stern. 
Matty struggles to hold on. Her feet drag in the sloop's wake. She looks up. Peter secures the net's line and heaves her upward. 
BARSHEBA DECK 
Peter clasps her wrist and pulls her up to the rail. She looks into his eyes and holds his gaze until... 
Rackam's INTERNATIONAL CREW yell all at once as they shove Peter aside to pull Matty over the rail. 
Once on her feet, she writhes from their grip. 
ENGLISH SAILING MASTER 
Throw it back, Mr. Hines. Ain't enough meat on his bones. The gang circles her, shoves her back and forth roughly. 
MATTY 
Leave me be! Rackam watches, mildly entertained. Matty looks to Peter for help. He shrugs and leans against the rail as the crew poke fun. 
IRISHMAN 
Hey now, savage. A striker's supposed to catch supper. You expect us to eat a bleedin' Englishman? 
WELSHMAN 
Damn if I'll eat any more English brill. 
ENGLISH SAILING MASTER 
That coat ain't English. 
IRISHMAN 
Looks French to me. Don't it look French, old man? OLD MAN SOWARD squints and touches Matty's sleeve. 
OLD MAN SOWARD 
Nay. Dutch, me thinks. Military. Corny shoves Soward aside. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Make way for the captain, you rapscallions. The men part slightly to allow Rackam to step through. 
RACKAM 
What's your name, lad? 
MATTY 
Call off your dogs and I might have something to say. 
A tall, muscular black AFRICAN grabs Matty's face with a beefy hand. 
THE AFRICAN 
Answer the captain proper, minnow. Show some respect. 
Matty struggles free and goes for her saber but the gang stops her. 
The Irishman takes the weapon. He looks at the inscription and hands it to Corny. 
IRISHMAN 
What's it say, Corny? 
GUNNER CORNY 
How should I bloody know? 
Corny hands the saber to Rackam who looks it over with the sailing master, who sounds it out. 
ENGLISH SAILING MASTER 
MathEEus Red? REEd. Um...MathAYEus? 
RACKAM 
I've seen one of these before. During the war. A cavalry saber. 
GUNNER CORNY 
How'd you know, cap'n? You was in India smuggling calicos during the war. And we was with ya! 
The crew agrees, laughs. 
RACKAM 
I saw my share of action before I found you swabbers. Matty spits at Rackam's feet, but it only draws his curiosity. 
RACKAM 
Why does a pollywog bear an elite English weapon and wear a Dutch uniform? And why are-.
From the helm, Scottish PILOT ANDY (35) shouts. 
ANDY 
We're upon the merchant, captain. Rackam gestures to Corny who readily shouts to the gang. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Prepare to board! 
ENGLISH SAILING MASTER 
Ready to douse sail, gents. 
The men disperse to their stations, leaving Matty alone to face Rackam. Peter folds his net. She turns to Peter. 
MATTY 
Why'd you throw me that line? Peter looks up and appears at a loss for an answer. 
RACKAM 
The question, Mr. Read, is why did you abandon your crew? 
MATTY 
I'm for the wrecks. Like you. 
RACKAM 
Then you'll be disappointed. Matty looks up at the privateer flag with the royal ensign. 
MATTY 
I'd best run with a privateer than suffer another minute with them pirates. Even now they're off to attack some rich Frenchman in Bay Honda, and I'll have no part in it. 
Rackam raises his brow. He looks to Young's merchant where the relieved crew await Rackam's rescue. 
Corny readies the boarding plank. 
RACKAM 
Mr. Corner! Ready the powder. 
Pleased, Corny nods and rushes off. 
Rackam looks at Matty's saber in his hand. He turns and tosses it to the nearest man, shoves Matty toward the hatch. 
RACKAM 
An unwise trade, Mr. Read. (to Peter) Take your catch belowdecks. 
Rackam turns to the crew. 
RACKAM 
Be ready to trim the sails, lads. We're for Cuba. Corny arrives with a powder keg. Rackam eagerly grabs it. Peter rushes Matty down the steps. 
MATTY 
What happens now? 
PETER 
You tell me. You're the one who told them about the Frenchman. 
Matty takes a last peek at the attack preparations on deck before she disappears below. [[end act 1 -act 2]] 

EXT. OCEAN -DUSK 
In longboats, Dobbins and all of Young's crew watch their vessel go up in flames against the sunset. 
The Barsheba sails off in the distance. 
EXT. BARSHEBA -NIGHT 
The anchor splashes into dark water. 

INT. BARSHEBA'S HOLD -NIGHT 
Matty awakens in a hay-filled stall. She instinctively reaches for her missing saber. 
PETER (O.S.) 
The mackeral finally awakens. 
Peter sits across from her, turns up the flame in a lamp. His bright shirt hangs loose, exposes chiseled abs. 
Self conscious, Matty draws her own coat around her tightly wrapped flattened chest. 
MATTY 
Why aren't we going to the wrecks if Rackam has a letter of marque? 
PETER 
The Spanish are threatening war over his so-called "salvaging." 
MATTY 
Gold or no, I'm going there. 
PETER 
So Mathias Read is a pirate after all? 
MATTY 
The name's Matty. 
PETER 
Peter. She looks him over. 
MATTY 
And why, Peter, are you down here with the bleating goats? Peter laughs and shakes his head. 
PETER 
I'm just the striker. She wonders at that. 
PETER 
As long as I keep their bellies full and navigate the shoals, pirates and smugglers leave me out of their nefarious affairs. 
MATTY 
Even if they offer you a share? 
PETER 
Especially then. I'll not dance at the end of a rope for these blackguards. They'd have to keel-haul me first. 
MATTY 
So how do I get away from them without getting keel-hauled? A hatch opens. Boots clack down the ladder in the b.g. 
PETER 
Cooperate. Or offer them a service no other man can do for them. A momentary fear flashes through her eyes. He notices. 
PETER 
Just wait it out. They'll let you go eventually. 
MATTY 
How do you know? 
PETER 
They always do. Rackam beelines to Peter and yanks him to his feet. Peter gives an "I told you so" look that doesn't last long. 
RACKAM 
Off with your breeches, Hines. 
MATTY 
What the devil-.
RACKAM 
Clam it, Read. You're next. 
MATTY 
Bloody hell, I'll not remove so much as my hat for you. 
RACKAM 
That so? You insolent little turd... Rackam goes to kick her-.Peter purposely stumbles into him as he strips to his loincloth. Rackam turns on Peter. 
RACKAM 
A little war paint and you can act the savage you are. 
As they rush off, Peter kicks his pants to Matty. She finds a sheathed hunting knife on Peter's belt. 

LATER 
The ship is quiet, eerie. Matty pretends to sleep, curled up. Bare feet rush down to the hold. A foot nudges her. She half 
turns to look up, reaches for the knife buried in hay. Shirtless with paint on his chest and face, Sam Bellamy towers over her with his long black hair loose and wild. 
BELLAMY 
Topside. Now. He pulls her to her feet before she can grasp the knife. 
MATTY 
Where the bloody hell did you come from? Bellamy slaps a sharp hatchet into her hand. 
MATTY 
What's this for? 
BELLAMY 
To skin a bloody Frenchman. 
MATTY 
Or maybe to skin a pirate... 
Bellamy catches the murderous look in Matty's eye, shows her two pistols at his waist. 
BELLAMY 
Damn my blood, Read. Just do as you're told for once. Topside! He turns a horrific, whip-scarred back to her. 
BELLAMY 
Now. Matty stares at the scars, follows him up. 
BARSHEBA DECK 
Matty emerges from the hatch. 
Rackam's crewmen crouch along the rails, as if hiding. No sign of Bellamy's men. By all outward appearances, the sloop is an abandoned ghost 
ship that glides through a lagoon without sails. SUPER: "Bahia Honda, Cuba" Bellamy motions to her, and she ducks and follows him to the 
bow, near where Rackam crouches down. Bellamy kneels, whispers instructions to her. 
BELLAMY 
...and when I give the signal... 
She half listens and looks up at the skeletal, furled sails. The sloop mysteriously moves past treetops. 
BELLAMY 
...cut the line. Ay, set? Overwhelmed, Matty swallows and can't seem to speak. 
BELLAMY 
If not, Captain Rackam here will cut you down, then cut the line hisself. Matty glances at sneering Rackam and manages to nod. Bellamy climbs over the bow and disappears. Matty sneaks a peek over the edge to see Bellamy ease himself 
from the thick tethered rope to his canoe filled with half-naked, 
painted Baymen, armed to the teeth. Both canoes row in silence as they tow the Barsheba toward an anchored French sloop. 
Up ahead, Matty sees the ornate stern of the Marianne, an impressive blue-painted, gold-trimmed vessel. Panicked activity aboard Marianne breaks the eerie silence. 
A hand pulls Matty back. It's Rackam. He motions "shh." Matty sits back and looks out at the empty deck, tries to make sense of everything. 
Out of nowhere, Peter and Mick jump in front of Matty; each 
holds a bullhorn. Both are covered head to toe in war paint. Mick utters a terrifying native war cry into the bullhorn, loves every second of it. 
Peter does the same, with little enthusiasm. 
IN THE CANOES 
Several Baymen stand and cry out like fierce native warriors. 

BARSHEBA DECK 
Peter mimes a chopping motion. 
Matty snaps out of it, stands, takes the hatchet, cuts away the canoe lines. 


IN THE WATER 
The canoes race for the French ship. 
The feathery, wigged silhouette of CAPTAIN JEAN BONDAVAIS comes to the edge. 
BELLAMY 
Let us board or it's your scalps! 
The Baymen throw grappling lines over Marianne's rails. Bondavais covers his head in mock terror. 
BONDAVAIS 
(sarcastic) Mon Dieu! No, no, no! (angry) How will tomahawks do against our pistols and muskets, you savages? 
BARSHEBA DECK 
Matty just starts to catch her breath when Rackam uses his cigar to light a swivel cannon as he stands next to Matty. 
BOOM! The shot whizzes over the French vessel. 
RACKAM 
Do as comes natural, Frenchy. Surrender! Rackam's crew stand with a terrifying shout, weapons drawn. 
MARIANNE DECK 
At the sight of so many armed men, weapons drop all over the deck of the Marianne. 
BONDAVAIS 
(irritated) 
If you insist... 
Bondavais throws his palms up in begrudging surrender. 
Several of his men faint on the spot. 
Bondavais rolls his eyes, embarrassed for them. 


EXT. BAHIA HONDA -LAGOON -DAY 
The Marianne rests at anchor. One of the Baymen's canoes is tied astern. 

ON THE BEACH 
Barsheba lies beached next to the other canoe. 
The sailing master and the African supervise with whips over the French prisoners, who scrub Barsheba's hull. Most of Rackam's crew laze in the tree shade. 

MARIANNE DECK -MIDSHIPS 
Rackam, with French feathers in his cap, helps Wright divvy the plunder from a large chest. 
Excited, Mick and Bellamy's Baymen watch from above and all around. 
Corny stands by, eyes everyone with suspicion. 

POOP DECK 
From his polished French shoes up to his flowing wig under a de-feathered tricorn, Bondavais sits like a prince in the shade of the aft sail. Wrists bound, he reads a book marked "A Cruising Voyage Round the World by Captain Woodes Rogers." 
Matty stands, puffs her pipe, watches the ship's careening. 
Peter, shirtless, still paint-smeared, carries a basket of flopping fish up to the rail beside her. Peter kills and cleans the fish with his knife. 
MATTY 
You vowed you'd never help these villains, yet there you were screaming like a warrior. 
Matty turns and mimics Peter's warrior cry to Bondavais, who ignores her, keeps reading. 
PETER 
I did that for you, Mackeral. 
MATTY 
Me? 
PETER 
Rackam swore he'd gut and fillet my little catch of the day... He guts a fish for effect. 
PETER 
...if I didn't cooperate. 
MATTY 
Indeed? Not because you wanted to gut a Frenchman? Bondavais cracks a smile, continues to read. 
PETER 
I've no love for the French. But war's over. Taking this ship is piracy. I risked the noose for you... You're welcome. 
BONDAVAIS 
Worry not. I'll tell the Admiralty you were compelled in your piracy. Matty turns to face Bondavais and storms over to him. 
MATTY 
What makes you think you'll live to see Admiralty, Frenchman? 
Bondavais looks over at the greedy pirates who paw through his chest of gold pieces. He looks over at the shore where Rackam's crew overlords his Zeelander crew. 
BONDAVAIS 
My men are a hardy lot. Zeelanders. 
Matty is clearly troubled by the mention of Zeelanders. 
BONDAVAIS 
Should I die, they will hunt you pirates down. Should I live, I will lead them in the hunt. 
MATTY 
And if you are forced to join us? 
BONDAVAIS 
Us? So you are one of them? 
MATTY 
I was forced by these scoundrels. 
BONDAVAIS 
And you continue with them from here? 
MATTY 
If they go to fish the wrecks, I go with them. If they continue to take vessels, I'll be the first to join your crew and hunt them down. 
Bondavais is as impressed as his Frenchness allows. 
BONDAVAIS 
So your loyalty is first to the wrecks, then to your king? 
MATTY 
My loyalty is to my ship. 
Matty burns at the thought of it. 
MATTY 
I was on the Hampton Court. 
PETER 
Wait. The ship that-.MATTY 
That the French took, then sold to Spanish fools who loaded it with treasure and sank it off Florida. 
Disinterested, Bondavais returns to reading. 
Peter is astounded. 
PETER 
With the Neptune figurehead? 
MATTY 
You've seen it? 
RACKAM (O.S.) 
Hines! Help me load the canoe. 
Rackam drags a heavy chest of chinking gold toward them. 
At the rail, Rackam looks over the side, then up at the riggings. 
He chooses a hook line and turns to Matty. 
RACKAM 
Make yourself useful, swab. 
Matty helps them fashion a harness for the chest. 
Wright dashes up the quarterdeck to confront Rackam. PEARCE WRIGHT 
Avast! You've taken a captain's share, you filcher! 
Bellamy steps out of the captain's quarters, yawns. PEARCE WRIGHT 
Captain, this smuggler thinks to spirit away our share as if it's a load of calicos. 
BELLAMY 
What's the meaning of this? 
Rackam works with Matty and Peter to secure the chest. RACKAM 
'Twas my Barsheba that won the day. You've the prize. We take the booty. 
Enraged, Bellamy approaches, spins Rackam to face him. 
BELLAMY 
Damn you, crafty rascal. We've earned our half of that gold. This was my scheme without ye. Your only idea was to "fry the Frenchies" -burn everyone and everything then recover the gold later. 
Bondavais looks up from his book. Glares at Rackam. 
BONDAVAIS 
Qu'est-ce que c'est? Burn my Marianne! 
RACKAM 
(ignores Bondavais) Ay. The more casualties, the better the divvying. You're lucky to get any at all the way I sees it. 
Rackam tosses a coin purse at Bellamy then turns back to raise the chest by a pulley line. It's too heavy. 
He nods Peter and Matty over. 
RACKAM 
Make yourselves useful. Peter and Matty help get it high enough to clear the rail. Bellamy slams the purse down and pulls his pistol on Rackam. 
BELLAMY 
Put it back. No one's leaving until we settle this. 
Rackam moves as if to secure the line to a rail cleat, but instead lets go and reaches for the pistol in his belt. The heavy chest falls. Still gripping the line, Matty flies into the air, knocks Peter 
backward over the rail. 
Peter smashes through the seat planks of the canoe, lands face up. He tries to get up, then he's out cold. The chest crashes at Bellamy's feet. He jumps back. 
Matty dangles by one hand over the stern, bewildered. Rackam points his pistol at Bellamy ready to tell him offĐĐ 
BONDAVAIS 
Une bte Anglais! Get off my Marianne! 
Bondavais charges and tackles Rackam, pushes him all the way across the deck, sends him back over the side rail. Rackam gets a wild shot off just before he hits the water. Everyone ducks. Bondavais smacks his lips, satisfied. Bellamy, furious, shouts to his men. 
BELLAMY 
Cut anchor! Cut loose the periagua! These scum won't see a shilling. Men scramble. Wright cuts the canoe adrift with Peter in it, then turns with 
others to face Rackam's cohort Corny. Fearful, Corny runs to the rail and jumps overboard. Matty's pipe shatters next to Bellamy. He looks up. 
BELLAMY 
Come down at once, Read! 
Matty touches her side. A bloody gunshot wound. Her grip loosens and she falls to the deck. All goes black. 
DISSOLVE TO: 

INT. MARIANNE -OFFICER'S CABIN -NIGHT 
The glow of a candle sconce comes into fuzzy focus. Matty's eyes flutter open. She's on a bunk in an ornate cabin. A NATIVE BOY sits by her, sewing into her side. Matty moans. 
NATIVE BOY 
She's waking up! 
Bellamy moves into her blurry view. His knuckles come clearly at her with a punch. Blackness. 

LATER 
The sconce becomes clear and bright to Matty's heavy eyes. Bellamy sits next to her. His voice is distorted at first. 
BELLAMY 
All night... Julian the Indian... best sailmaker... stitched you up. Bellamy holds up four fingers. 
BELLAMY 
How many? 
Matty puts her hand up, shows one finger at a time. One, two, three, four. Bellamy nods. She balls up her fist and punches him in the jaw. Bellamy shakes it off, laughs. 
BELLAMY 
You hit like a girl. 
Matty sits up too fast and swoons back down, rubs her bruised cheek from Bellamy's punch. She scans the vacant room. 
A wadded pile of bloody rags lies nearby. 
BELLAMY 
Imagine my surprise when I removed your shirt... 
Bellamy starts to pull the bottom of her shirt up. She pushes his hand away. 
MATTY 
You bastard rogue. You've no right-.
BELLAMY 
You were shot. 
He hands her a small lead ball. A bullet. 
She clenches it and tries another punch. 
He catches her fist. He hovers over her, pins her hands. MATTY 
Because of you, I was shot. 
BELLAMY 
Because of me, no one's touched you. 
He lets go. 
She sits up. 
He lingers seductively close. BELLAMY 
Tell me your name, lass. 
She avoids him and winces as she tries to look at her wound. BELLAMY 
Morris? Read? Smith? 
Bellamy goes nose to nose with her. She stares him down. BELLAMY Must be a hell of a thing to wake up with a new name every day. Have you tried on "Queen Elizabeth" for size? 
MATTY 
Get out... Leave me alone. He moves closer. Her defiance wavers. Their lips almost touch-.
BELLAMY 
Whatever you desire, princess. 
(stands abruptly) I'm for Cape Cod to return to me own Goody lass. You I'll put off at Nassau, along with the Frenchman. 
Bellamy pulls a pistol from his belt. 
She tenses. 
He lays it on the table, points to her clenched hand. 
BELLAMY 
Return that to the villain Rackam who pierced you with it. 
He heads for the door, stops to lay a folded paper and her coin-filled "GWC" pouch next to the pistol, then faces her. 
BELLAMY 
Enjoy your private quarters, princess, 'til we reach Providence. I'll not have a woman distracting my lads at sea. She glares. He grins. 
BELLAMY 
If you've any virtue, you best start growing a beard to better conceal your sex, because... 

EXT. PROVIDENCE ISLAND -DAY 
Marianne sails into Nassau Harbor between Hog Island (today's Paradise Island) on the left and New Providence on the right. The sign at the mouth of the harbor reads "NASSAU" with skull-and-crossbones graffiti over it. 
BELLAMY (V.O.) 
...Nassau is no place for a lady. A joyous fiddle begins to play... 

INT./EXT. NASSAU ALE HOUSE -NIGHT 
A wall of female cleavage. Each nestles a glass tumbler. 
MADAME FULFORD, crusty but comely, messily pours liquor down the line. 
Revelers line up for a turn to drink. 
Under a charred cross and starry sky visible through a burnt-out church roof, the ale house is alive with dancing, gambling and drinking. 
Myriad pirates, wreckers and smugglers fill every nook. 
The island's entire population of women are present -all 20 or so of them. The lusty ones work the room. Two dower, broken lasses drink themselves to oblivion in a dark corner. 
At the bar, mulatto TOM "JAMAICA" BROWN slams a frothy drink in front of Matty who sits with her back to the room. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
Nassau'll put hair on your chest, boy! Matty grimaces, chugs. Jamaica Brown offers a cigar. Disgusted, she shakes her head. 
MATTY 
Have you a pipe? He searches behind the bar, comes up with a clay pipe. 
MATTY 
Tobacco? Brown re-offers the cigar. 
Repulsed, she takes it and empties some of its tobacco into the pipe. 
Gangly Englishman JAMES BONNY (20s) timidly approaches. He sits beside Matty. From behind, they could be twins in their long blue coats, though Matty's shoulders appear broader. 
JAMES 
(to Brown) 
I'd like a milk, sir. 
Brown sideglances, then calls to the back. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
Phoenix! Goat needs milking, mon. 
Peglegged old Scottish barkeep PHOENIX hobbles in from the back. 
Matty stiffens when she sees him. She turns her back. 
Brown nods him toward James. 
PHOENIX 
(to James) 
The nanny's gettin' old. Rum's cheaper 'round here. 
JAMES 
Oh no. I couldn't bring me young delicate wife the drink. I'll pay you for the goat's 
trouble. 
Phoenix shrugs and hobbles off to the back. 
James turns, ready to make conversation but Matty and the pipe are gone. Just a coin next to her empty mug. 

EXT. NASSAU TOWN CENTER -NIGHT 
Across from the noisy ale house a sign reads "NASSAU INN" on the exterior of a dilapidated structure. Matty walks in. 

INT. NASSAU INN -UPSTAIRS HALLWAY -NIGHT 
Matty, new pipe in mouth, goes to her door with a key. 
Across the hall, Irish ANNE BONNY (17) pokes her red-haired head out as Matty unlocks her door. Likes what she sees. 
ANNE 
You've a smooth step for a pirate. Has the liquor run dry in the mug house? Matty pauses at the door, turns to the ginger beauty. Anne steps out into the hall, lightly clad in lacy undergarments. 
MATTY 
Who says I'm a pirate, miss? 
ANNE 
Who says I'm a miss, pirate? Matty sizes her up from painted face down to painted toes. Anne shows off her ringed finger, shuffles back inside. Matty turns back to her door, unsure what to think. Anne pops her head back out. 
ANNE 
Did ya come for the wrecks, lad? Matty turns, shrugs. 
ANNE 
Us too! But we can't get to 'em. Bleedin' Spaniards all in a huff. Matty nods. Pushes her door open to go in. 
ANNE 
So James--that's me fella--wants to go turtle hunting. Can you imagine? Matty stops in the doorway and waits for Anne's point. 
ANNE 
ÕTisn't right for a lady to be diving in the water, getting wet. 
Matty fake smiles and moves farther inside. ANNE 
He needs a crew. 
Matty stops and turns. She's hopeful for a moment. MATTY 
Your fellow has a vessel? 
ANNE 
James!? He hasn't a groat to his name. 
MATTY 
(confused) Then, how-.
ANNE 
The sloop is mine. Ya be interested in joining us? We could use a strong, 
handsome lad... 
Matty is ready to say yes-.
ANNE 
Ya know how to swim, then? And don't mind the tropic on your skin? James promises--says that the crew will have to spend a lot of shirtless days in the sun... 
Anne becomes lost in her own imagining of a half-naked crew. 
Matty backs down, disappointed. 
MATTY 
I think it not be for me, missus. 
ANNE 
(pouts) Why not? 
MATTY 
Wouldn't want to get me hair wet. 
Anne guffaws at Matty's supposed joke. 
MATTY 
But I pray you find some honest gents for your venture. Matty retreats into her darkened 

ROOM 
and closes the door, both relieved and disappointed. 
ANNE (O.S.) 
Star of Avon is me sloop's name. Me husband'll be here in a glint. Let him know if ya change your mind... 
Matty removes her hat and coat, throws them on the bed. 
MATTY 
(to herself) I'd have to change more than my mind to go a-turtling. 
She removes her shirt, exposes a tight wrap round her chest. 

INT./EXT. NASSAU ALE HOUSE -SAME 
James pays for his milk and leans in toward Phoenix. 
JAMES 
Where are the colonists? Seems everyone here is a pirate. 
PHOENIX 
All's I ever see is them what carry gold. Not mine to ask how's they come upon it. 
JAMES 
Hmm. I'm in need of an honest crew. 
PHOENIX 
What be your vessel and trade? 
JAMES 
A small sloop. Good for hunting turtles I think. 'Tis a good profession I hear. 
PHOENIX 
(rubs his stubble) See me tomorrow when these varmints are a-snorin' under the sun. Mayhap I'll have an idea or two fer ya. 
Bondavais enters, stops, removes his hat in reverence. 
BONDAVAIS 
Libertalia! I've found Heaven. 
Bondavais grabs Madame Fulford and dances his way over to the bar. He lets go of her and taps on James' shoulder. 
BONDAVAIS 
Matty Read! How's the wound? Phoenix hears the name and takes a good look at James. James stands and turns with blank non-recognition. 
JAMES 
Me, sir? 
Surprised, Bondavais shakes it off apologetically. He steps aside to allow James to exit with his milk. 
Bondavais claps his hands to gain attention from patrons. A few gamblers look up with mild interest. 
BONDAVAIS 
Since the pirate Black Sam Bellamy absconded with my gold and my Marianne,I find myself marooned on this sand spit with nothing but you whoring miscreants-.
GAMBLING WRECKER 
Begone, ya frog-eatin' gaul. 
GAMBLING PIRATE 
Go cry into the bosom of a wench. Madame Fulford moves toward Bondavais. 
BONDAVAIS 
--and twenty casks of Madeira wine. 
He has their attention. Phoenix nudges Jamaica Brown. 
PHOENIX 
Did he say twenty...of Madeira? 
Jamaica Brown nods and Phoenix hobbles out from behind the bar to slap Bondavais on the back and whisper. 
PHOENIX 
How much for the lot of it, Frenchy? 
BONDAVAIS 
(loud) 
Alas, it is not for sale... 
Boos and hisses. 
BONDAVAIS 
Tonight, the wine is, how you say, upon Jean Bondavais! Cheers and whistles and raised glasses. 
BONDAVAIS 
(conspiratorial whisper to Phoenix) 
Two barrels tonight. The rest we shall discuss tomorrow. 
Phoenix nods. 
FULFORD 
Huzzah to the Monsieur! 
GAMBLING WRECKER 
Huzzah to Black Sam Bellamy, wherever he be. 
The musicians strike up the lively MAID OF AMSTERDAM, which has everyone singing, taking raunchy solos on the verses. 

INT. JAMES &ANNE'S ROOM -NIGHT 
The music wafts through the open window from which Anne watches Jamaica Brown unload a cart full of small wine barrels. She salivates over his sinewy muscles. 
James enters with the milk. 
JAMES 
Here ya go, love. Warm milk. Anne glances at the milk, then back out the window. 
ANNE 
Hell's bells, that can't be what's in all those casks! James moves in for a kiss on the lips. She turns her cheek to him. 

INT. MATTY'S ROOM -SAME 
Matty unravels the linen from her chest. The music across the street stops her. 
She moves to the window that overlooks the open-air ale house. Through the burnt-out roof she watches, concerned, as Bondavais and Fulford dance. 
Matty steps back into the shadows and sits, listens, grows more worried. Slowly, she removes the wrap. She mumble-hums in Dutch with the chorus. 
MATTY 
Maria, Maria, Mari-a de Cavalerist... 
INT./EXT. NASSAU ALE HOUSE -SAME 
Bondavais dances with Madame Fulford. Both gulp wine. 
FULFORD 
How did you get a pirate to give you all this wine? 
BONDAVAIS 
It was always mine, as was my Marianne. He promised to return her to me at his earliest convenience. I believe he will. 
FULFORD 
You're in love with this Marianne? 
He nods and laughs and starts to sing along in Dutch at the 
robust chorus while the rest sing in English. 
ALE HOUSE PATRONS BONDAVAIS 
A-rovin', a-rovin', since rovin's been my ru-Maria, Maria, Mari-a de Cavalerist / De 
i-in / I'll go no more a-rovin' with you fair man u te sparen zal met je trouwen 
maid eerlijke meid 
Bondavais stops cold. 
Fulford tries to get him to dance, but he's frozen with 
realization. 
He moves Fulford aside and goes out into the 

STREET 
Bondavais removes his wig, looks up at the windows across the street. In one window he sees Anne belittling James. The next window over is dark. He stares up at it, awed. 
BONDAVAIS 
Mathias Read. Maria de Cavalerist. 
[[end act 2 -start act 3]] 

EXT. FORT NASSAU -DAY 
At the top of the hill by the fortress gate, Matty leans against a palm tree with a sweeping view of both town and harbor. Behind her, the crumbling, unarmed fortress crawls with weeds and overgrown brush. 
She looks at her empty pipe. Frowns. 
From her vantage she peruses the lay of the land and water... 
The haphazard town of shanty buildings sprawls parallel to the shoreline where various boardwalks lead to and from the unimpressive pier. 
Across the water, Hog Island shelters the harbor from the vast open waters of the great Atlantic. 
Ships of various nations are moored along jutting docks. 
A noisy ship sails into the harbor past the graffitied "NASSAU" sign. A black flag flies over the bow. It's the Barsheba, filled with Rackam's drunken gang. 
Matty abandons the shady tree and rubs her aching side. 
MATTY 
I need off this wretched island. She walks down the hill toward the raggedy town. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -DAY 
The Barsheba sails toward the main dock. 
Rackam notices Anne in frilly dress aboard the moored "STAR OF AVON." He runs to the rail and removes his hat. 
RACKAM 
Fine day, miss. Anne smiles and nods. James sticks his head out of the hatch. Rackam doesn't notice him. 
RACKAM 
Where's your crew, my lady? 
ANNE 
You're lookin' at 'em, sailor. Don't you know a woman can do the work of ten men 
when put to it? 
Rackam is impressed...and smitten. He waves his hat as the Barsheba sails on to deeper moorings. 
Anne watches him, piqued. 

EXT. BAHIA HONDA INLET -DAY 
Decaying corpses of Zeelanders and bits of Bellamy's chopped-up canoe litter the beach and water. Shark fins abound in the blood-red water. 
An English privateer flag flaps in the wind. The warship's tiger figurehead roars silently at the bow of the battle-beaten ship. The stern reads: "TYGER" 

ON THE PRIVATEER TYGER 
Uniformed men peer at the carnage in shocked silence. Captain Young and his merchant crew are among them. 
Stone-faced, straightlaced CAPTAIN BARNET (35) observes from the helm. 
Dobbins at the bow points to the water. 
DOBBINS 
Captain Barnet! We've a live one... mayhap. The canoe carrying Peter drifts up against the Tyger. Dobbins pours a bucket of water over Peter's sunburnt skin. Peter stirs and moans. 
INT. NASSAU INN -DAY 
Matty pounds on Anne and James' door. No answer. She leaves. 

INT./EXT. NASSAU ALE HOUSE -DAY 
The place is all but abandoned. Matty goes to the bar. 
MATTY 
Barkeep! Get your bum out here. Jamaica Brown steps in from the back. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
What you want, mon? 
MATTY 
John Fennick. He gives her an odd look. 
MATTY 
Bloody Scotsman. Missing a foot. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
He be sleeping, mister. 
Matty storms past Brown, who catches her by the arm. She sees Phoenix in a heap on a mat. He stirs. 
MATTY 
Get up, Fennick. I've business with ye. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
He's called Phoenix, mon. 
Matty shakes off Brown's grip and reaches down to Phoenix, pulls him up by his collar. 
MATTY 
Always rising from the ashes, eh? 
Phoenix focuses bleary eyes upon her, sobers quickly as recognition strikes. 
PHOENIX 
Matty Re-.MATTY 
Ay, but I've been goin' by the name Morris. Jim Morris. 
Shocked, Phoenix staggers and shakes his head to clear it. He catches Matty's glaring eye and cowers a bit. 
MATTY 
Have you a ship, Mr. Phoenix? He shakes his head. 
MATTY 
Who do you know here that's for the wrecks? 
JAMAICA BROWN 
(laughs) Everybody, mon. 
MATTY 
Ay? You're gonna get me on a crew, then, Phoenix. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
Why would he do that? Matty grabs Phoenix's collar. Pulls him close, off balance. 
MATTY 
For ol' Jimmo's sake. Or you'll lose more than a limb when I'm through with ye. Phoenix nods, intimidated. Matty releases him. 
MATTY 
Who's hiring? I want a good honest company. No cutthroats. Jamaica laughs until Matty hushes him with a glare. 
PHOENIX 
There be no commissions to fish the wrecks, I'm afeared. ÕTis deemed an act of piracy if an Englishman steps afoot Florida's shores. 
Matty motions for Jamaica to give her beer. 
He pours. 
MATTY 
What honest work might I find in this wretched place? 
PHOENIX 
Turtling. She dismisses that as she takes a swig from her beer. 
PHOENIX 
There be ambergris aplenty. 
MATTY 
Ambergris? Where? 
PHOENIX 
Next island over, Eleuthera, has-.
ANNE (O.S.) 
What's ambergris? 
Matty turns to see Anne on the arm of James Bonny. 
In the corner, Bondavais, sans hat and wig, stirs from where he's been passed out all night. He rises and bows to Anne, but keeps his eye on Matty. 
BONDAVAIS 
Mademoiselle, it is but a weed next to such a rose as yourself. Anne bats her eyes at him. James frowns. 
JAMES 
Rubbish from a whale's belly. 
BONDAVAIS 
Valuable rubbish. 
MATTY 
Ambergris is used to make perfume, missus. 
ANNE 
Perfume? And all you need is a vessel to get to the next island so you can find it, then sell it? 
PHOENIX 
Fifteen leagues east. For a share, I'll point out ye best spots-.
MATTY 
You've not been invited, Phoenix. 
Phoenix bends down behind the counter, pops back up with a fistful of tobacco as a peace offering. Matty acquiesces. 

EXT. FORT NASSAU -DAY 
Rackam's black flag flies over the fortress. Rum in hand, Rackam surveys all from atop the corner wall. Corny and crew sweat to pulley up a full-sized cannon. Once 
secure in the parapet, they aim it at the harbor. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Dagos and Frenchies, beware! 
RACKAM 
To hell with them. Our guns aim at English authorities! The men muster an exhausted roar of agreement. Rackam spreads his arms out, basks in his own glory. He stops 
when he notices activity at the pier below. THROUGH A GLASS he spots Anne, then Matty. 
RACKAM 
First me gold, now that devil's after the same lass? Take a rest, laddies... The men all collapse as he jumps down and runs off. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -DAY 
Bondavais and James carry a wine cask along the boardwalk. 
Phoenix hobbles behind them on his peg leg. JAMES Do we really need wine for such a short expedition? Mr. Phoenix says the island is close. 
BONDAVAIS 
Ah, you must not forget your promise to sail to Bay Honda to retrieve my thirsty men. I'll need my crew to take back my Marianne. 
James looks down the long boardwalk to the sloop. 
JAMES 
(re: wine cask) Can't we at least roll it? 
ON THE STAR OF AVON 
Matty bends over the rail to reach a loose line. 
ANNE (O.S.) 
(shouts from the hold) You're certain that this whale spit is better trade than turtle shells? 
MATTY 
If ambergris is as plentiful on Eleuthera as Phoenix says, it's as good as the gold at the wrecks. 
Anne pops her head out the hatch, holds up a map. 
ANNE 
This map makes it look very close indeed. But it doesn't say Eleuthera. It says Freedom Island. I'll compare it to one of James' charts... 
Matty erects herself and swipes the map. 
Anne shrugs, disappears back down the hatch. 
MATTY 
Freedom Island? 
A pistol shot draws everyone's attention to the dock. A chunk of wood blows away near Matty's head. 
Matty sees Rackam run past James and Bondavais as he reloads. 
James and Bondavais drop the cask and chase Rackam while Phoenix scrambles to save the wine from rolling off the pier. 
Matty tucks the map in her coat. 
RACKAM 
So I've your attention then? Where's me gold? 
MATTY 
Bloody hell, Rackam. I thought you had the Frenchman's gold. Haven't you shot me up enough? 
Matty secretly reaches for the pistol in her belt. 
ANNE (O.S.) 
What's going on? Anne climbs out of the hatch. Rackam points the pistol at Matty, tips his hat to Anne. 
RACKAM 
My lady, might you need assistance to escape this rogue? 
BONDAVAIS (O.S.) 
Monsieur Rackam! 
Rackam turns and fires. His shot strikes the barrel in front of Phoenix who falls back on his butt in shock. Cursing under her breath, Matty runs to the stern. Unties the 
mooring line. 
Rackam pulls a second pistol and fires another shot toward Bondavais and James. James evades, falls into the water. 
Rackam attempts to reload. Bondavais charges, leaps, knocks Rackam down. They scuffle. James struggles to climb out of the water, knocked back in 
when Rackam's pistol skids into his face. On the sloop the sails luff and catch the wind. Phoenix sits by the cask, fills a cup with the leaking wine. Bondavais tosses Rackam violently into the water and helps 
James out of it. James searches for the sloop in the harbor. 
JAMES 
Read's absconded with my wife! 
BONDAVAIS 
We'll charter a boat at first light to join them. The Star of Avon sails off, away from the setting sun. 

EXT. OCEAN -DAY 
Like a dot on the ocean, the large canoe, stocked with supplies, sails past the sunset. 
Its lone occupant, Peter, sunburnt skin, bandaged head, steers with great concentration and fatigue. 

EXT. LAGOON -NIGHT 
The Star of Avon anchors in a moonlit, horseshoe-shaped bay. SUPER: "Eleuthera Island" 
ON THE STAR OF AVON 
Matty, pipe in mouth, finishes coiling rope, stands, stretches her back. She blows a smoke ring. 
Behind her, Anne secures a final knot. 
MATTY 
Your husband'll find us tomorrow. (scans the furled sails) I dare say you're as fine a sailing mate as any man. 
ANNE 
Why are men so smacked to discover a lass can do the work of a man? Matty laughs at the irony-.Anne's seductive arms come around Matty who chokes on her 
own smoke. She turns to face Anne. 
MATTY 
Madame...what is this? Anne moves to kiss her. Matty backs away. Anne stalks. 
MATTY 
Mrs. Bonny, you're a married woman. I'm not the kind of man-.
ANNE 
Ay right. A man is a man. Anne throws her arms around Matty's neck to kiss her. Matty turns her face and pushes Anne away. 
ANNE 
Hell's bells! What the devil is wrong with ya, sailor? Are ya...? Anne looks at her with sudden sympathy. 
ANNE 
You're only for the gents? 
Harried, Matty recovers and shakes her head, then concedes with a nod, then shakes her head again, holds back a chuckle. 
ANNE 
I can see you're lackin' the experience of a woman's touch. (steps closer) Let me make a real man of ya. 
Matty stifles laughter even as she backs up. 
ANNE 
You're laughin' at me, are ya? 
MATTY 
No! 'Tis true what you said, missus. It's just... I've no great experience with women. That's all. 
Anne spots Matty's ringed hand, grabs it. 
ANNE 
You're married? 
MATTY 
Ay, I was, but... It's no easy thing to explain. 
ANNE 
Left ya? Broke your heart, ay? Matty turns serious, lowers her head. Anne's sympathy returns, with sincerity. She backs off. Matty moves to the companionway and pauses. 
MATTY 
Best get some sleep, missus. We'll need to be ready at first light. Your husband's worried sick I wager. 
Matty disappears below. 
INT. STAR OF AVON CABIN -NIGHT 
Lost in melancholy thoughts, Matty unbuttons her shirt, checks her healing side wound. Unravels the chest wrap... 


EXT. NASSAU BROTHEL -NIGHT 
Peter's approach through the ramshackle town evokes cat calls and come hithers from the painted ladies of the brothel. Peter stays on mission. Approaches Fulford. 
PETER 
Might there be a Frenchman here? I was told he might--Bondavais emerges, arms opened wide. 
BONDAVAIS 
Jeune homme! Peter, no? You have brought me my crew at last? Peter's serious expression sobers Bondavais. 

INT. STAR OF AVON CABIN -NIGHT 
Matty, stripped to her shirt, lies face up, stares at the ceiling. A tear runs off her cheek. 

INT. CAVALRY TENT -DAY -FLASHBACK 
Matty, in male uniform, walks in, removes a torn, bloody, mud-caked British coat, then her shirt, her back to the entrance. In walks a handsome DUTCHMAN wearing a blue coat. She turns, startled. He's more startled to see her half naked. She covers up with a pillow, mortified to be discovered. 

END FLASHBACK -BACK TO SCENE 
Matty rolls to her side. Tears drop to the pillow as she closes her eyes, remembers, smiles. 

EXT. DUTCH FORTRESS -DAY -FLASHBACK 
Beautiful bride Matty steps through a military saber arch formed by lines of smiling soldiers. 
She reaches her handsome Dutchman groom in the blue coat... 

END FLASHBACK -BACK TO SCENE 
Matty drifts to sleep, grips her pillow... 

INT. BEDROOM -NIGHT -DREAM 
The honeymoon night... In the shadowy throes of lovemaking, whispers to her husband 
MATTY 
Ik hou van je. I need you, Han... 

DREAM DISSOLVES BACK TO REALITY 
Matty continues to whisper declarations of love and desire, locked in a romantic embrace with...Anne. 
ANNE 
And I want you. 
Anne slips her hands under Matty's shirt, then stiffens. She pulls away. Matty opens her groggy eyes. She realizes where she is and 
looks at Anne. Furious, Matty pushes Anne to the floor. Anne becomes hysterical as she gets up. 
ANNE 
What the hell is going on? 
MATTY 
Leave at once, you trollop! 
ANNE 
Me? You're off your nut! Them jabs under your shirt... 'Tweren't no pistol wound! 
Matty sits up and draws her shirt closed. She seems ready to give Anne an angry earful; instead she convulses with tears. 
Anne recovers from the shock, sits next to Matty. She studies Matty's face. 
ANNE 
What possesses ya to act the man? Matty bucks up and takes a deep breath. Tears gone. 
MATTY 
I don't act like anything. 
ANNE 
Take it from one actress to another. You've a grand talent. 
MATTY 
I am as I was raised. 
ANNE 
(fascinated) What does that mean? 
MATTY 
It's a long story. 
ANNE 
I've all night, lass. Anne stands and grabs the half-empty bottle of rum. 

EXT. BEACH -NIGHT 
A fire crackles within sight of the anchored Star. 
Rum in hand, Matty spars with Anne. Bamboo shafts for swords. Their shadows dance up the beach. 
ANNE 
(breathless) ...And what's the going rate for taking your dead brother's place? 
MATTY 
A crown a week. 
Matty takes a swig, thrusts, nearly knocks Anne's shaft away. ANNE 
My fencing instructor would die for the shame of me. 
MATTY 
Wait 'til you see what happens if you blabber to anyone about me... 
Matty, relentless, charges Anne. 
The shaft flies from Anne's hand. She stumbles back on her 
butt. 
Matty hovers. MATTY 
If there's one thing I know about women, they can't keep their mouths shut. 
ANNE 
What kind of friend ya take me for? 
She menaces Anne, who is unimpressed by the threat. ANNE 
Has it been that long since you've had a woman for a friend? Someone to trust? 
Matty backs off. That cut. MATTY 
A lifetime. Matty walks off toward the fire. 
LATER 
Anne and Matty sit, stare at the fire. Anne belches. 
ANNE 
What's your real name, then? Amused at Anne's intoxication, Matty considers her answer. 
MATTY 
Mare Liberum. 
ANNE 
That's no name. Has a Latin ring. 
MATTY 
The name given me by Neptunus Rex. 
ANNE 
What's your Christian name? Really? 
MATTY 
Matty'll do. 
ANNE 
You intend to keep up this blarney even with me? 
MATTY 
After me mum dressed me in me dead brother's breeches, 'tis the only name I've ever really answered to... besides Jim Morris. 
ANNE 
Your husband was called Morris? 
MATTY 
(shakes her head) Me husband was Dutch. 
ANNE 
Then who's Morris? 
MATTY 
Jimmo. He was me best friend when we were young. We were cabin boys on Her Majesty's Hampton Court. But he died... saving that miserable Scottish pegleg. 
ANNE 
(thinks a moment) Mr. Phoenix? 
MATTY 
Ay. The drunken ass lost his foot. Jimmo lost his life. 
Matty's attention wanders to her memories. 
ANNE 
And that happened aboard the ship that's now wrecked? Carryin' the Spanish queen's jewels? 
Distracted, Matty nods. 
ANNE 
Why would you want to go back there? The ship is lost forever. 
MATTY 
I left something aboard her... 
ANNE 
What do you mean? Surely nothing of the English is still aboard her. Matty gazes deeper into the past. 
MATTY 
I gave my soul to that ship. Matty snaps out of her memories and grins. 
MATTY 
But 'tis the gold she carried for the Spanish what draws me back! Anne smiles and nods, tries to figure Matty out. 

LATER 
Drunk, bottles in hand, Matty and Anne circle the fire, sing the English words to THE MAID OF AMSTERDAM chorus: 
ANNE & MATTY 
A-rovin', a-rovin' / Since rovin's been my ru-i-in / I'll go no more a-rovin' with you fair maid 
ANNE 
I'll go no more a-rovin'... Anne falls, passed out in the sand. Matty pokes Anne's leg with her foot. 
MATTY 
Ya dead? Anne mumbles incoherently. 
MATTY 
I said, are you dead? Anne laughs, then cries. 
ANNE 
No, but poor Mathias is dead. 
MATTY 
I'm right here. 
ANNE 
I mean your brother. Poor wee fella. 
MATTY 
(sings) I'll go no more a-rovin' with you my brother. 
ANNE 
You're very bad! 
MATTY 
Nay. That's just my voice. I'm a good chap, really. Anne rolls over laughing, spits sand. Two bare feet appear in front of her. Anne stops, looks up. She screams and scrambles to her feet. 
ANNE 
Indian! [[end act 3 -start act 4]] Matty grabs for her weapons. Anne runs to hide behind her. 
Peter stands before them like a red native warrior. 
PETER 
So you've found my island, Mr. Read. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -DAY 
James, at the helm of the Star of Avon, waves goodbye to Anne on the dock. 
Matty handles the halyard lines across from Peter. 
Bondavais pretends to help, but clearly finds the labor beneath him. 
Anne winks at Matty, but James thinks it's for him. 
Peter notices. 
JAMES 
She insisted I go and not worry. She seems a bit delicate, but she can handle herself... 
He turns his face for them to see a bruised eye. 
MATTY 
That from Rackam or ye wife? 
JAMES 
I left her with the very pistol Rackam struck me with should that rascal come back.-
BONDAVAIS 
Do not worry, monsieur. Yesterday that blackguard sailed off with his coterie of cutthroats in chase of-.(looks at Matty) --Mister Read. I cannot wait to meet him at arms upon the sea! 
MATTY 
Hear, hear! 
The sloop turns out of the harbor and out of sight. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -CONTINUOUS 
In from the other end of the harbor sails Rackam's Barsheba. Rackam spots Anne walking toward town. He whistles to her. She turns. Her wave and a coy smile are enough to prompt Rackam over 
the side. He swims toward Anne like a dog in heat. His incredulous crew watch, amused. 

EXT. BIMINI ISLANDS BAY -DAY 
The Tyger dwarfs the Star of Avon moored with it in the bay. SUPER: "Bimini Islands, 50 miles east of Florida" 
ON THE TYGER 
Eight cannons sit at the ready. The dapper crew stands at attention midships. 
Two burly men guard a barrel of grenados (fuzed grenades). 
Peter, James, Bondavais and Matty -each unarmed -face the crew along the rail under Captain Barnet's scrutiny. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Our commission is simple, yet paramount for the security of Great Britain and her colonies in the West Indies. In fact, our mission may prevent another war with Spain. 
He looks around at all the men, including Matty's crew. 
Barnet eyes Matty, who sports a dim grin. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
We'll patrol the Straits on the road to the wrecks... Most of us have seen the savagery of Calico Jack Rackam. 
Bondavais seethes at the mention of it. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Calico Jack, Blackbeard and countless others continue to accost the Spaniards at the salvage camps. No merchant passing through is safe. 
Barnet turns to face the Star of Avon crew. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
I've received very interesting reports on you and your...friends, Mr. Hines. Your good reputation as a striker in these islands is well known. But I've a few questions before we issue arms and duties to these new recruits. 
A puzzled, worried look crosses Peter's face. 
Barnet steps before James, pulls papers from his waistcoat and inspects them. 
James takes a stiff step forward, diverts his eyes. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
James Bonny, English. Mariner and Master of the sloop Star of Avon... Owned by...Mrs. Bonny? 
JAMES 
(nervous) Yes...sir. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
You mentioned to one of my men how your wife was lately carried off upon said vessel by Mr. Read. Yes? 
JAMES 
Well...I suppose. No. You see-.
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Have you seen military action? 
JAMES 
(flustered) Yes, sir. I was on a merchant during the war. We engaged a French man-of war. Once. 
Barnet nods and waits. 
James realizes, steps back. 
Barnet moves on and waits for Bondavais to step forward. 
Bondavais takes a casual step, stares at Barnet. CAPTAIN BARNET Jean Bondavais, of Montreal. Master of the sloop Marianne, lately taken by the pirate Bellamy while in trade from Hispaniola to Louisiana. It's evident you've seen military action, and we are all mindful of the late war which pitted us as enemies... 
Barnet's hesitation incites Bondavais. 
BONDAVAIS 
Do you question my loyalty to this mission? 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
I saw for myself what happened to your men, Captain Bondavais. Our 
governments are in harmony-.
BONDAVAIS 
Then our mission is the same... To see the feet of those pirates dangle beneath English gallows. 
Barnet nods coolly. 
Bondavais shuffles back. 
Barnet moves on to Matty. 
She steps forward, serious and soldierlike. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Mathias Read, English. Distinguished service in the Royal Navy as a youth. Later commended for actions on land with the Allied Dragoons at the infamous battle of Malplaquet, France. 
The others look at Matty, impressed. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
There seems no resolution to your latest service with Dutch merchants in trade with America. 
MATTY 
Sir, I joined the crew to earn passage to the Americas. But pirates intervened and I was compelled on pain of death. 
Barnet holds up Bellamy's worn-out Watch List with her name at the top of a now long list of names. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
By Sam Bellamy? 
MATTY 
Yes, sir. And by Calico Jack Rackam. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Forced? Each time? 
MATTY 
Yes, sir. 
Barnet nods then feigns sudden recollection. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Oh, my. I ought to have said the late Black Sam Bellamy. Our job has been made so much easier by a terrible storm off Cape Cod. The Pirate Bellamy is no more. 
Matty registers surprise and a hint of distress. With Barnet's eyes upon her, she pulls it together. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
This must be delightful news-.
BONDAVAIS 
What of my Marianne? 
When Barnet turns to Bondavais, Matty takes a deep, calming breath, holding back emotion. 
Peter watches, perplexed. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
One of Bellamy's ruffians, a logger by name of Wright, escaped with your vessel. We shall be on the lookout for him, I assure you. 
Barnet puts the papers back in his vest, waves the armed burly men over and gestures toward Matty. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Place this young man in irons. Matty and the rest are incredulous. 
MATTY 
What is this? The two men approach and grab her. She resists. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Monsieur Bondavais, when taken by the pirates, were your hands bound whilst Mr. Read, alias Morris, had access to arms? 
Bondavais is slow to answer. 
BONDAVAIS 
I believe so. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Mr. Hines, whilst under compulsion yourself, did you observe Mr. Read in the active employ of pirates? 
Peter steps up to Barnet. 
PETER 
No, sir, I did not. And I was not bound either-.
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Did you yourself raise force against an innocent whilst in their midst? 
PETER 
No. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Did Mr. Read? Peter watches Matty struggle against her handlers. 
PETER 
No. In fact, they shot Mr. Read-.CAPTAIN BARNET 
But on Captain Young's vessel, Mr. Read disarmed Mr. Dobbins. 
MATTY 
Who the bloody hell is Dobbins? 
Dobbins, the crewman who had fought against Mick, steps forward from the Tyger crew. 
MATTY 
You? I was SAVING YOUR LIFE, bloody fool! Barnet dismisses Dobbins to stand off to the side. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
You'll have your day in court, Mr. Read. I've enough to keep you in irons until we can deliver you to Admiralty. God save your soul. 
Helpless, Matty looks to Peter and Bondavais. They step up. 
PETER 
Sir, I did not ask Mr. Read here to beĐĐ 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
You've done well, Mr. Hines. You've helped us capture our first pirate. 
BONDAVAIS 
Mais non! Mr. Read is no pirate-.
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Mr. Bonny, did you not just confirm that your own wife was recently in great peril because of this rogue? A buzz of murmurs grows louder. Matty tries to free herself from the grip of the men. 
JAMES 
'Twas a confusion, sir. My wife-.
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Enough! This matter is over. All are stunned into silence. 
Matty sees Barnet's pistol on his belt. The men drag Matty off. Dobbins cups his mouth, shouts. 
DOBBINS 
Moses' Law! Barnet considers. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
A pirate's punishment for the pirate? The crew offers shouts of agreement. Matty becomes frantic. 
DOBBINS 
Forty lashes, less one! 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Nay. I'll not give the courts reason to side with a villain. Matty relaxes somewhat, relieved. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Three lashes. For resisting arrest. Barnet raises three fingers for all to see. Matty is desperate to escape. Her captors start to remove her coat... 


IN SLOW MOTION 
Matty spins out of her coat and wads the sleeves to smash the two men together and bowl them into the line of crewmen. 
Matty unsheathes the swords of both men as they go down. She slices the air to wave Barnet and everyone off. 
Barnet points his three fingers at Matty. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Stop him! 
One sword's blade severs Barnet's fingers into bloody stumps. 

BACK TO NORMAL TIME 
Matty throws the bloody sword overboard. She waves all off with the second sword. 
With her free hand she snatches up Barnet's pistol, aims it at his head. 
MATTY 
(to Barnet's crew) 
Move and your captain dies. 
Matty shouts to Peter and Bondavais. 
MATTY 
Back to the sloop. Prepare to sail. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
(in agony) 
This changes nothing, Read. We'll hunt you down-.
MATTY 
Then I'll tell you exactly where to find me, sir. In Nassau. Let's see how far you 
make it into the pirates' harbor flying the King's ensign. 
She shoves the pistol into Barnet's side, then turns to slash lines at the rail, strategically dislodges booms and sails. 
The crewmen dodge the falling rigging. 
MATTY 
Mr. Bonny. Retrieve our weapons. 
Peter climbs over to the sloop to where Bondavais' smile startles him. 
Peter grabs him, whispers. 
PETER 
What is all this? 
BONDAVAIS 
How does it feel to follow a woman's command? Good, no? 
Peter looks at Bondavais as if he's crazy. 

LATER 
A heap of weapons next to the grenado barrel. 
Bondavais and Peter secure rope around the huddled, disarmed crew at the main mast then move to the rail with Dobbins. 
BONDAVAIS 
What about this American fool? 
Matty moves to the rail, hostage Barnet in tow as he nurses his now wrapped bloody hand. 
She points the sword at Dobbins. 
MATTY 
Let's see how you do, Mr. Dobbins, living as a forced man on an island full of pirates. I'm sure Captain Barnet will count you among the criminals in due time. 
Matty motions for Dobbins to board the sloop. As he does, she throws the sword overboard, pistol still at Barnet's head. 
MATTY 
(quietly) Captain Barnet, some things are not as they appear. (shouting) Mr. Hines, bring me a grenado. 
PETER 
(hesitant) They won't flog you if you tell them the truth. 
Matty hurls a ferocious glare in his direction, then at Bondavais who shrugs, apologetic, then jumps across. Barnet struggles. Matty punches him to keep him still. 
PETER 
You'll be acquitted by Admiralty. 
MATTY 
Chained up on a ship full of men led by this martinet? I'll not make it to trial. Peter hands her a grenado and whispers. 
PETER 
Tell the truth, I beg you. He jumps across to the sloop with Bondavais. Matty takes a good look at the grenado in her hand. 
MATTY 
(whispers to Barnet) Which would be worse? For your men to think you foiled by a mutineer...or a woman? 
Barnet presents a puzzled look. She whispers, softer. 
MATTY 
Before you accuse a gent, you ought know whether she is a gent to begin with, you prig. He looks at her in disbelief. She smirks and nods. 
MATTY 
The name's Mary Read. 
As realization sets in for Barnet, Matty shoves him into the bound men, sprints for the rail, leaps across to the sloop. 
MATTY 
Godspeed on your mission to find the true pirates, Captain Barnet. May we never meet again. 
Bondavais helps Peter push off from the Tyger. 
James steers. 
Barnet gets up and starts toward the rail but halts when Matty raises the grenado in one hand and a lit match in the other. He backs off. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
This is not over! I'll catch up with you, Read. 
MATTY 
Not too soon, I think. 
Matty lights the grenado and throws it just below the tiger figurehead. It blows a man-sized hole at the waterline. 

EXT. STAR OF AVON SLOOP -NIGHT 
The sloop is anchored, sails furled, near a small island. Matty faces her prisoners. James is inconsolable, Bondavais pensive, Dobbins angry, and 
Peter confused. Matty paces and scratches her head with the pistol butt. 
MATTY 
What now? 
BONDAVAIS 
I have a suggestion. 
MATTY 
It was rhetorical, monsieur. Bondavais smiles and stands. Matty points the pistol at him. 
BONDAVAIS 
I don't think you'll use that on us. He looks at Dobbins. 
BONDAVAIS 
Well, perhaps not most of us. Matty goes face to face with Bondavais. He smiles and hums the familiar Maid of Amsterdam tune. Matty fumes. Matty jabs the pistol in Bondavais' gut and cocks it. Undaunted, he backs away, indicates the others. 
BONDAVAIS 
If you tell them, I'm sure they'll pledge their silence-.Dobbins stands and charges her. 
DOBBINS 
I'll pledge nothing to this sorry excuse for a man! Peter sticks out a foot to trip him. Bondavais punches Dobbins as he goes down. Dobbins is out cold. Bondavais laughs. Frustrated, Peter stands. Matty points the pistol at Peter. 
MATTY 
Sit down, Hines. You walked me into that trap. 
JAMES 
My stomach hurts. 
BONDAVAIS 
S'il vous pla”t. Tell Mr. Bonny the truth. His belly hurts! 
Matty looks at Dobbins laid out on the deck. She scrutinizes James and Peter. 
PETER 
So everything about you is a lie? 
MATTY 
Nothing about me is a lie. 
PETER 
Right. You were in the Royal Navy? At Malplaquet? You're a woman! James snaps his head up. 
JAMES 
What? 
PETER 
Let us help-.
MATTY 
Obligation is an unpayable debt for a woman...if she have any virtue. She looks at them all. 
MATTY 
And I bloody well do, dammit! 
PETER 
But, Miss Read, we're on your side-.
MATTY 
You'll never call me Miss again, lest you want Mr. Rackam's bullet in your skull. Peter backs off. James looks on in silent horror. 
MATTY 
Men... You don't even know the freedom you have... She takes aim at each of them. 
MATTY 
You'll not prattle one word to another soul. Will ye? 
They all nod and shake their heads in confused compliance. 

INT. STAR OF AVON -BELOWDECKS -NIGHT 
James lies in his bunk. He stares at the ceiling, chews his nails, incoherently mutters his amazement. Bondavais sleeps in his hammock with a smile on his face. [[part 1: tag if necessary]] 

EXT. STAR OF AVON -TOPSIDE -NIGHT 
Dobbins lies where he fell, snores. Matty stands at the rail, looks at the moonlit lagoon. Peter comes up to stand next to her and confides 
PETER 
I might have sooner believed Mr. Bonny or Dobbins a woman than you. Nonresponsive, Matty searches for a match for her pipe. 
PETER 
But now...it seems obvious. Matty looks up, insulted by the comment. Peter pulls a match from his pocket and strikes it for her. She stares at it. 
PETER 
Allow me some chivalry when no one's looking. She accepts the light just before it can burn him. 
MATTY 
And here I thought you were a savage. 
PETER 
Ah, well, maybe you're not the only one with a secret. Maybe I'm really an educated gentleman of means. 
MATTY 
Oxford, I suppose. With an "Esquire" after your name? 
PETER 
"Sir Peter" will do. Matty almost smiles for the first time. They stare for a moment. A spark. He's about to speak-.
MATTY 
Did you seem them scars on Black Sam's back? Peter nods. 
MATTY 
He must've served a few Barnets in his day. Matty looks out at the water again. 
PETER 
Better him than you. She blows a smoke ring over the water and watches it. 
MATTY 
But now I'm branded too: Pirate. Maybe that's who I really am. Peter reaches to her face and makes her look at him. 
PETER 
You're no pirate, Matty Read. Another moment between them. Dobbins moans. 
PETER 
Your secret's safe with me. Peter goes to help Dobbins up. 
Matty touches her face where Peter had touched her. [[end episode 1 here? start part 2]] 

INT. TYGER -CAPTAIN'S CABIN -DAY 
An eager sailor carries papers through the door. Barnet sits at the war table, nurses his mutilated hand. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
News from Jamaica? The sailor lays out a proclamation for Barnet to read. Barnet casually looks at it, grows more interested with each 
word until he's in a frenzy. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
PARDON? For those villains!? A Royal Governor... Bahama Islands? He smiles with realization and excitement. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
I'm to be governor?! The sailor slaps down another document on the table. Barnet grabs it with his good hand and reads. His excitement 
melts with each word until he's lost in angry disgust. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Tell the lieutenant to set a new course...for Providence. 
He slams the papers down on his desk next to a copy of the same book Bondavais had been reading by Woodes Rogers. He knocks the book off the desk in a fit. [[part 2: end teaser start act i]] 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -DAY 
The Marianne sits at anchor, sails and rigging removed. The Star of Avon is docked nearby. In deeper water, Barsheba, worse for the wear, is moored. 

INT./EXT. NASSAU ALE HOUSE -DAY 
The usual activity, only with daylight to illuminate it all. The 
charred church cross provides an ironic shade. Everyone is present: Bondavais' ladies, Rackam's gang...and Dobbins, who sits alone, out of place. 
Wright, Mick and others lurk in a corner. Peter and James console Matty who sulks over her beer. Music plays but is soon cut off when Andy, Rackam's pilot, runs into the ale house and calls for 
everyone's attention. He holds a piece of paper. 
ANDY 
A royal governor's on his way! 
RACKAM 
What the hell are you on about? 
ANDY 
It's a proclamation. He'll be here soon, and-.
RACKAM 
Who might this new governor be? 
ANDY 
Captain Woodes Rogers. Gasps and murmurs of awe. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Who? 
Several pieces of rotten fruit fly at Wright. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
What the devil? 
GAMBLING PIRATE 
Ya landlubbing logger! Everyone knows who Captain Rogers is. Wright dives into a scuffle with the fruit throwers. Andy holds up the paper, stops the fight with three words. 
ANDY 
He brings pardon. 
OLD MAN SOWARD 
Beggin' your pardon... What d'ya mean, Andy? Laughter. 
ANDY 
The king's pardon. For piracy! For us all! 
A stunned silence befalls the ale house. Everyone eyes each other, unsure how to react. Matty looks at Peter, elated. 
MATTY 
A clean slate. No mutiny. No gallows. (to all) THREE CHEERS FOR THE NEW GOVERNOR! 
Another moment of silence before most of the patrons shout. 
NEARLY EVERYONE 
Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah! 
Matty gulps down her drink. Her eye catches a few brooding pirates not partaking in the "good" news, including Rackam. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
By the king. A proclamation... 

SERIES OF SHOTS -PIRATES TAKE SIDES 
--Andy leads pirate rabble up the road toward the fort. Together, they carry a large British flag. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
...for suppressing of pirates. 
--At the ale house, Andy is in a heated argument with Rackam. Scores of riled pirates behind them each. Most of Rackam's gang are still with him. 
--Matty, Peter and James observe quietly -from Andy's side. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
In case any said pirates shall, on or before the fifth day of September, surrender 
themselves to any governor of our dominions beyond the seas... --Wright stands by Rackam, argues boisterously across the tables with Dobbins and Bondavais. --Fists slam on the tables between them all. --Tempers flare. Fists fly across the tables. A brawl. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
...every such pirate so surrendering shall have our gracious pardon for their 
piracies... 
--Old Man Soward sneaks through the fray to Andy's side where he watches the mayhem with Matty et al. 
--Anne stands on piled crates outside, watches through the burnt-out roof with great interest. 
--Anne sneaks off the Star of Avon with James asleep inside. 
--At the ale house, Rackam's battle-weary gang lifts Rackam victoriously on their shoulders. Corny hands him a cutlass. 
GUNNER CORNY 
We proclaim Calico Jack Rackam Governor of Nassau! --Everyone, including Anne, raises cups. 
GUNNER CORNY 
This is the commission under which you are to act. May you prove fortunate to yourself and to us. 
--Pistols fire up through the burnt-out roof. 
EVERYONE 
Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah! 
--Wenches carry in a large punch bowl for all to dip cups. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
We give these instructions to our trusty and well-beloved Woodes Rogers esquire, Governor in Chief in and over our Bahama Islands... 
--At the fort, Rackam shreds the English flag while his men hoist the black flag with a giant, smiling skull that glows under moonlight. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
Fit yourself with all convenient speed and repair to our said islands, where the government is fallen into great disorder... 
--At the ale house, Rackam grabs Anne and kisses her. 
--Rackam carries Anne into his room at the inn, kicks the door behind him and throws her on the bed. She laughs and beckons him. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
Whereby the said islands are exposed to be plundered and ravaged by pirates and others and in danger of being lost both from God and from our crown of Great Britain... 
--In the town square outside the brothel, Bondavais reads Woodes Rogers' adventures from his book while Matty hams up a scene: receives an imaginary blow first to the foot, then the face. Peter and James applaud the performance. 
--All the men are enamored by her. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
We do hereby give and grant unto you, the said Woodes Rogers, full power and authority to levy arms, muster command and employ all persons whatsoever... 
--A large mish-mosh of vessels in the harbor fly English flags. 
CAPTAIN BARNET (V.O.) 
...and to execute Martial Law in time of invasion, war or uprising. 
--An English fleet glides in. 
--Crewmen aboard the warship "DELICIA" point and gape at the black flag aloft the fort. 
--Hundreds of islanders along the shoreline cheer as the naval ship behind the Delicia runs an 11-gun salute. 
--From the fort, Rackam aims a cannon down at the ships, but Corny stops him. 
GUNNER CORNY 
The lads never brought up the shot. 
--Disappointed, Rackam steps away from the cannon. He looks down at the crowd below. He grins and elbows Corny. An idea. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -DAY 
From the bow of the anchored Delicia, GOVERNOR WOODES ROGERS (40), handsome and regal, with a disfigured left cheek and cane in hand, peruses the islanders. 
At the bow, Barnet finishes reading to the rapt crowd. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
We repose especial trust and confidence in the prudence, courage and loyalty of 
you, the said Woodes Rogers out of our especial grace. 
(looks up from the paper) 
Signed, George, by the grace of God. 
Cheers break out and Governor Rogers limps to the rail. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Welcome to a New World, and a new hope! 
More cheers. 
Matty, Peter, Bondavais, Andy, Old Man Soward and Dobbins listen amidst the crowd. 
ANDY 
What bogle wark done that to his face? 
MATTY 
His jaw and foot were shot away when he overtook a Spanish galleon. Haven't 
you read his book? 
ANDY 
Is it in Gaelic? 
Rogers continues his address to the crowd. 
GOV. ROGERS 
As I look upon you good people of these Bahama Islands, I've every confidence 
that we shall thrive as a colony... 
Matty looks around. The sea of faces streams up and through town to the fortress. Ordinary families with children stand amongst the crusty crowd of seafarers and islanders. 
MATTY 
(whispers to Peter) 
Where'd all these folk come from? 
PETER 
Been in hiding inland for years since the pirates took over. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Together we'll build a nave of commerce and prosperity in this vast New World! 
The people applaud and cheer-.
BOOM! A splintery blast from 

THE HARBOR 
The Marianne, manned by Rackam and 70 malcontents, tows a tethered line of blazing ships, Barsheba included, out of the shallows on a collision course toward Rogers' fleet. 
From the dock, Bondavais goes into a rage. 
BONDAVAIS 
Mon Dieu!! I'll kill him. That brazen...Calico Jack! Revenir avec ma Marianne! 
A bright mix of Calico prints replace Marianne's white sails. Rackam's skull flag flies at the mast. 
BONDAVAIS 
(nearly in tears) 
I stripped her rigging to prevent just this! 
The African slashes the line to the burning ships. 
Rogers' entourage scurries to deal with the oncoming unmanned fireships as the Marianne heads out to sea. 

ON LAND 
Townspeople scatter. 
Matty watches families escape inland. Discouraged, she turns to the spectacle in the harbor. She takes out a spyglass, focuses and frowns. 
THROUGH THE SPYGLASS: On deck, behind Rackam, a short red-headed sailor... 
MATTY 
Bloody hell. 
PETER 
What now? 
JAMES (O.S.) 
That wretch has taken Anne! 
Matty and the others turn to see James, forlorn, wrapped in nothing but a torn sail cloth. 
JAMES 
And all my clothes! 

IN THE HARBOR 
Elderly soot-covered militia men successfully scramble to stop the fireships before they reach the Delicia. 

INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE -DAY 
Rogers and Barnet sit at a table piled with documents. 
James and Andy stand at attention, quite proud of themselves, official commissions in hand. Peter faces Rogers with his hand raised in oath. 

EXT. FORT NASSAU -SAME 
Matty passes a very long, boisterous line of pirate-types who wait to get in, among them Wright, Phoenix, Soward and a few others from Rackam's original gang. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Where you off to, Read? Matty keeps walking. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Hey! Wait your turn. We's all been waitin' for our pardon since the crack of sparrow's fart... Others shout their disapproval. Matty keeps her head down and goes to the guarded doors. 

INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE -CONTINUOUS 
A guard opens the door. Matty sneaks in to see the Rogers swearing in Peter. 
PETER 
...I pledge to carry out my duties to the utmost, so help me God. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Very good, Deputy-Governor Hines. You're required to attend council each month and as called upon. Any further questions? 
Peter shakes his head, then follows Rogers' distracted gaze to Matty. 
GOV. ROGERS 
So glad you could join us, Miss Read. 
A look of surprise on Andy's face. 
Instant anger on Matty's. 
MATTY 
Who here told you that I'm a-.
CAPTAIN BARNET 
(mutilated hand raised) That would be me. 
GOV. ROGERS 
I've heard testimony from the Frenchman, these gentlemen present, and from Captain Barnet as to what transpired upon his privateer-.
MATTY 
(to Barnet) Did ya mention anything about the cat-o-nines and Moses' Law-.
CAPTAIN BARNET 
(re: his stumped hand) I certainly told him about this! 
GOV. ROGERS 
Enough! We'll not dwell upon the past here. In fact, that is why you've been summoned, Miss Read. 
Rogers indicates Andy, James and Peter. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Here stand our new Foremen overseeing fortress repairs, and Eleuthera's Deputy-Governor. This is all about the future. Our colony's future. Your future. 
MATTY 
My future? 
Rogers turns to Barnet who hands a paper to him. Rogers signs the document with a flourish, beckons Matty forward. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Raise your starboard hand. Wary, Matty raises her right hand. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Do you swear your allegiance to His Majesty King George, and to follow the laws of England in, about and beyond these Bahama Islands? 
MATTY 
I do. 
GOV. ROGERS 
And to follow the laws instituted within these said islands? 
MATTY 
I do. 
Rogers sprinkles sand over the fresh ink, shakes it off and hands the document to Matty. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Receive then your pardon. 
Matty peruses the document. Her eyes flash from gratitude to surprise to fury. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Something wrong, Miss Read? She ignores Barnet and holds the paper out to Rogers. 
MATTY 
You condemn me with this. Peter and the others look at each other, concerned. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Is that not your Christian name? 
MATTY 
I answer to Mathias Read. This name... (slaps the paper) ...has no meaning. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
You told me yourself your name is-.
MATTY 
Say it and you'll have matching lobster claws... 
Rogers, inscrutable, folds his arms over his chest. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Once a pirate... 
GOV. ROGERS 
I think I understand, Miss Read. 
MATTY 
I think not if you keep calling me that. The name is Matty. I must be able to earn my own way, like any man on this island! If you offer pardon to all, then offer it to me-.
CAPTAIN BARNET 
You have it in your bloody hands. 
MATTY 
This is not me! I'm not one to put on a dress, beholdin' to the likes of the men out there... 
GOV. ROGERS 
I am not blind to your quandary. But we've a colony to build here. A society. There are laws. And there are rules of conduct... You must not deny your Christening! Society can not abide the name you choose. 
Matty is crushed. She looks around at everyone. 
All avoid eye contact, except Peter. He clears his throat and steps forward. 
PETER 
Your Excellency, if I might. I think I understand Matty's situation better than most. This great honor you have bestowed upon me... Is it because of my Indian blood? 
GOV. ROGERS 
(taken aback) Do you accuse me of undue prejudice, Sir Peter? I have chosen you based on your merits, and-.
PETER 
Then base your decision about Matty on her merits. Not as a woman. 
GOV. ROGERS 
--and upon your status as a Baronet, Sir Peter. That is an undeniable asset to you. 
Matty is shocked by the revelation. 
PETER 
But I do deny it. How can something to which I make no claim have any merit in my life? 
GOV. ROGERS 
Do you denounce your baronetcy? 
PETER 
I do, in fact. I have not answered to Sir Peter for a very long time, just as Matty does not answer to the name on that paper. 
Rogers weighs Peter's words. 
PETER 
Does this disqualify me from my service to God and king? 
GOV. ROGERS 
Of course there is no requirement of title and privilege in the New World. Men rise in rank and earn their appointments... (indicates James, Andy) as have our new Foremen. 
PETER 
Then why not a woman who proves herself a valiant cavalier; a brave sailor in the Royal Navy? 
Matty is entranced by Peter's plea on her behalf. 
When Rogers fails to answer soon enough, Matty snaps out of it and slams the paper down in front of the governor. 
MATTY 
Dammit! I am Mathias Read. There is no such person as Mary bloody Read. Rogers and Matty glare at each other in a stand-off. 

INT. NASSAU ALE HOUSE -NIGHT 
A sailcloth roof now encloses the rowdy place. Peter, Andy, James, Matty drink in a quiet corner. 
MATTY 
That Quaker governor wants me to starve to death, or die of boredom. 
JAMES 
The governor only wants you to put on a dress. What's wrong with that? You can borrow one of Anne's! She left most of them. 
MATTY 
Even if I were willing to let the whole world know--which I'm not--what good's a dress to me here? 
She looks out at the usual shenanigans of the serving maids who fawn over and seduce the lecherous customers. 
ANDY 
I'd not've guessed it meself, Miss-.Matty shoots him a murderous look and takes a swig. 
ANDY 
Then what do we call ye now? Matty slams down her drink and takes out her pipe. 
MATTY 
Same as always. Nothing's changed. She looks at them all as she lights her pipe. They avoid direct eye contact. 
It dawns on her... Everything's changed. [[PART 2: end act 1 -start act 2]] 

EXT. NASSAU HOTEL -NIGHT 
Propped against the pillar on the porch, Matty sits, smokes, watches the residents of Nassau. 
Her gaze moves to the distant brothel where Bondavais urges patrons to go in. He spots Matty, bows regally toward her. 
PETER (O.S.) 
It'll never come to that... Peter approaches with two frothy mugs. 
MATTY 
I worked in a French brothel once. 
PETER 
(nearly drops everything) You? 
MATTY 
As a footboy. Peter is visibly relieved as he sits. 
PETER 
You've been at this a long time. 
MATTY 
If by "this" you mean how I dress and live, yes. And I've no intention to stop now. Peter hands her a mug. 
MATTY 
Many thanks, Sir Peter. 
PETER 
Oh, come now. You of all people should understand... 
Matty shrugs, takes a drink. 
MATTY 
Them were hardy words you used with the governor. Teach ya that at Oxford, did they? 
PETER 
Harvard, actually. Just a year. 
She takes another swig. Mulls over this new information. 
PETER 
As soon as I learned about you, I wanted to tell you, but... It never seemed the right time. 
MATTY 
No matter. 
PETER 
We're a lot alike, Matty. 
Matty stares at him. 
PETER 
I mean, we're both born to one life and choose another-.
MATTY 
You're nothing like me, Peter. I didn't have a choice. It was made for me. By me mum. By society. I wasn't choosing to step down in my station as you have. I had to claw me way up, and I had to take by force what no man would ever give any woman... 
After it hangs in the air, Peter offers. 
PETER 
Freedom? 
She nods, works to control her emotions. Stares off. 
PETER 
The lads have been talking. 
MATTY 
(takes a swig, mutters) I'll bet they have. 
PETER 
We're forming a company. While you were out here brooding, we convinced James to claim the Star as his own. By rights, Anne has abandoned both the sloop and him. 
MATTY 
Good. Then he can take me to the wrecks! 
PETER 
You'll have to belay such talk as long as there's peace with Spain. 
MATTY 
Then I pray for war. 
Matty looks at her beer, a bit ashamed for the comment. 
PETER 
We've decided we'll start a turtling company now that the fortress work is nearly done. 
MATTY 
(laughs) Turtling? 
PETER 
We want you to join us. 
MATTY 
Who's "we"? 
PETER 
James, Andy, Old Man Soward, and... Jim Dobbins... 
MATTY 
Do Soward and Dobbins know about me? That I'm a woman, I mean. 
Peter shakes his head. 
MATTY 
They certainly would once I lose my shirt! 
PETER 
What are you talking about? Matty grows earnest. They study each other a moment. 
MATTY 
Could a woman do it? I mean... is it true those turtles go so fast you lose all your clothes? 
PETER 
(laughs) Who told you that? 
Matty waits for the answer to her question. 
PETER 
Well, it's true they pull you through the water like a shot from a pistol. You might lose your hat, might even lose your meal if you don't have the stomach for it. 
MATTY 
(pensive) But I could do it? 
PETER 
What can't Matty Read do? Except maybe pee standing up... 
MATTY 
I wouldn't wager on that, mate. She smirks at his surprise and downs the last of her drink. 

EXT. FORT NASSAU -DAY 
Sweaty men of all creeds work on repairs to the fortress. Women tote water and supplies to and fro. Pleased, Rogers looks on from the parapets above. 
James supervises the rebuilding of a wall where Wright works. Wright abruptly stops and walks to a water woman. He takes water from her and drinks... Dallies. 
Assured that Rogers sees his audacity, Wright lures the woman away from the fortress, leaves his station. 
Rogers sighs, continues to observe the many other workers. 

EXT. STAR OF AVON -TOPSIDE -DAY 
Matty reclines at the forecastle, a musket across her lap. She watches the fortress activity in the distance. 
Peter approaches the canoe docked aside the Star of Avon. 
PETER 
Care to see my island in the daylight? I'm off to visit my grandmother on Eleuthera. 
MATTY 
Alas, I'm prisoner to the Star. James pays me two shillings and one hammock per diem to watch over her. 
PETER 
Too bad. My grandmother would like you. 
MATTY 
Would I like her? 
PETER 
Of course. She's my grandmother. He smiles as he pushes off in the canoe. Matty watches him, stops short of a grin. 
INT. STAR OF AVON BELOWDECKS -NIGHT 
Matty lies in a hammock with eyes wide open. James' muffled sobs emanate through the bulkhead. She covers her head with her pillow. 

EXT. ELEUTHERA HARBOR -DAY 
A few small boats glow ablaze against the dusky horizon. SUPER: "Freedom Island -Eleuthera Harbor" Peter breaks through the treeline in time to see villagers run 
back and forth with water buckets. A ship turns out to sea. Peter pulls a spyglass from a sack. THROUGH THE SCOPE: The telltale calico sails of the 
Marianne, topped by a black flag with a smiling skull. Heartbroken, Peter surveys the mayhem amongst the villagers in the fading light. 
EXT. STAR OF AVON -NIGHT 
Matty and Andy, stunned, watch the Marianne sail past toward the far dock. 
Frantic, James rushes belowdecks. 
JAMES (O.S.) 
Let's go. If he's hurt my Anne, I'll kill him. 
MATTY 
James... Anne is only in danger because she's a young fool. Not because of Calico Jack. 
James emerges with his hat and coat. 
JAMES 
But they kidnapped her. Matty shakes her head. James looks to Andy who looks down. James begins to 
understand, takes a breath and sits, forlorn. 
PETER (O.S.) 
Throw me a line, boys! Peter sails the canoe in toward the Star of Avon. 


EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -NIGHT 
Rackam's gang, including Anne, disembark the docked Marianne. They move as one up the boardwalk. An ANCIENT DRUNKEN SCOT blocks their path. 
ANCIENT DRUNKEN SCOT 
Gots to sign ye Harbor Master's book, sir. Governor's orders. 
RACKAM 
Anything for you, governor. 
Rackam winks and takes the book and quill. He places his flamboyant "X" on the page, then hands it back. 
The crew moves past the old Scot only to run into Bondavais and the entire torch-bearing gaggle of brothel women led by Madame Fulford. 
RACKAM 
Cheers, Bondavais. She's all yours. 
BONDAVAIS 
And what is the trick? 
RACKAM 
We're here to surrender. To the governor. Care to lead us? Or would you rather check on your precious--
Bondavais runs past them to the ship. 
BONDAVAIS 
Marianne! Madame Fulford places hands on hips with a "hrumph!" 
Rackam marches his crew toward the fortress. 

INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE -NIGHT 
Rogers sits, watches Captain Barnet pace authoritatively before Rackam's humble gang. 
All, except Anne who wears a fancy dress, stand chained to each other in irons. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
As Judge of the Admiralty, I'll hear your lies, and suffer your pleas for mercy... 
Anne steps over to Rogers and hands him a paper and waits while he skims it. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
And when you are found guilty-.
GOV. ROGERS 
I had thought to let you proceed a bit further, captain, but they're a step ahead of us. 
Rogers rises and limps the paper over to Barnet who glances at it and fumes. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Sir, this gang of marauders have been terrorizing merchants and islanders for months. You cannot honor this! 
Rogers pats Barnet on the back, turns to Anne. 
GOV. ROGERS 
I'm well aware that our gracious King has extended the expiration of the pardon. 
Smug, Anne smiles and returns to Rackam's side. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
No law states that you must honor this, especially with such impudent, remorseless-.
RACKAM 
I assure you, governor, we are sorry for what we done. I guess we just wasn't quite ready to face our own iniquitous ways...'til now. 
Rogers and Barnet exchange skeptical looks. 
GOV. ROGERS 
It matters not, I'm afraid. 
Rackam's crew grows restless. 
Cautious guards step forward. GOV. ROGERS Unlike Captain Barnet, I'll not suffer any of your lies and pleas. I won't let you stand here and make a mockery of this government. Thus it is my decision that each and every one of you-.
Matty, Peter, Andy and James burst through the doors. 
The guards stop them. 
GOV. ROGERS 
--be granted a certificate of pardon with haste. 
Collective amazement. 
Rackam grins. 
Anne kisses him. 
James boils. 
Rogers gestures and the guards remove the shackles. 
PETER 
Your Excellency, did they tell you they've just sacked Eleuthera? 
GOV. ROGERS 
(glares at Rackam) Was anyone killed? 
PETER 
No. But they burned boats and crops, and might have done more-.
Bondavais enters with Rackam's crumpled black flag. 
BONDAVAIS 
Governor, I have taken repossession of my Marianne where she sits in the harbor. He throws the flag into a heap on the floor. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Is your vessel intact? 
BONDAVAIS 
(sneers at Rackam's gang) It stinks of filthy pirates, but is otherwise sound. My...crew are swabbing it down now. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Captain Rackam, as condition with your pardon, I order you to take this flag and burn it. 
JAMES 
That's all? These scoundrels ought be in chains! I demand you arrest Calico Jack Rackam. 
Barnet steps close to Rogers, whispers. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Sir, this could get ugly if we don't explain. Rogers sighs and motions for Barnet to speak up. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
We are reticent to place any able-bodied man in chains at this perilous time. 
PETER 
Perilous for Eleuthera, you mean. How can you let these rogues loose like this? The turtling gang shouts in agreement. Rackam's pirates, now free of their chains, respond with 
fisticuffs. Rackam and James go after each other. 
The pirates egg them on while Peter and Andy try to pull them apart. 
Guards step in and break it up. Rackam jerks everyone away from himself and paces in an angry circle. 
James is beaten both in body and spirit. He sobs quietly. 
GOV. ROGERS 
(sympathetic) Mr. Bonny, Captain Rackam is a man under reprieve from the king. 
JAMES 
For piracies, perhaps. But what about adultery? Rogers gives a quizzical look. 
ANNE 
(tender) James...my darling James... (harsh) I want a bleedin' divorce. 
James is cut to the core. 
GOV. ROGERS 
This is your wife? Calmer now, Rackam turns to James. 
RACKAM 
How much do you want? Curious and skeptical looks cross the faces of all present. 
RACKAM 
Divorce by purchase. I'll give Mr. Bonny whatever price he demands. 
ANNE 
What? I'll not be bought and sold like chattel! Not even by you, Jack. 
JAMES 
This is outrageous, governor. They come here as unrepentant, murderous thieves, then try to walk out of here free men, with my wife! 
PETER 
He's right, governor. It's too much... 
Another shouting match between pirates and turtlers escalates as Rogers tries to shout them down. CRACK! Rogers' cane breaks as he whips it down on the desk. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Silence! I'll not agree to any illegal divorce by purchase. (to Anne) Madame, you are to return to your husband at once. (to Barnet) Draw up the certificates and send these men to barracks. 
Rackam freezes. 
All hush each other to listen up. 
RACKAM 
Barracks? 
GOV. ROGERS 
As I have been trying to tell you all. We need every able-bodied man in these islands to rally for the greater good. 
GUNNER CORNY 
What good be that, governor? 
GOV. ROGERS 
Why do you think we've been working to strengthen our fortifications, outposts, munitions? 
Barnet grabs a large notice off the desk and holds it up. 
GOV. ROGERS 
We are officially at war with Spain. Stunned silence, followed by... Unified CHEERS. 
GOV. ROGERS 
(over the noise) I have commissions for all captains with sturdy, armed vessels. More cheers. Bondavais joyously tosses his cap and wig in the air. 
RACKAM 
Does this mean we can kill Frenchy now just for the hell of it? 
GOV. ROGERS 
We are allied with France this go around, Mr. Rackam. 
RACKAM 
Damn it all. Rackam slaps Bondavais on the back. 
RACKAM 
Need a crew? Bondavais sneers. He turns to the turtling crew to celebrate. 

EXT. FORT NASSAU COURTYARD -NIGHT 
Matty and Peter walk at their own pace while others celebrate around and past them down the hill toward town. 
PETER 
It seems your prayers were answered. I suppose you can get that letter of marque for the wrecks now. 
MATTY 
Not from the governor. He'll never commission a woman to do anything but sew buttons on his coat. 
PETER 
What about a lieutenant governor? Matty glances at him, appreciative. 
MATTY 
You'd get in trouble, but... Can you commission yourself? With James' sloop and you diving... 
Peter thinks about that. 
MATTY 
James may take convincing, but if we can get Andy and Old Man Soward to agree.-
He shushes her when Anne and Rackam's merrymakers approach. 
PETER 
I'll talk to them. We'll meet you at the ale house in the morning. Matty watches him run to catch up with the turtlers. 
ANNE 
Come join us, Mister Read. 
Without missing a step, Anne threads her hand through Matty's arm and leads her down the hill. Anne and Matty slow for Rackam and his men to pass them. 
ANNE 
Go ahead, gents. I'll be along before you can get too bored. Rackam sneers at Matty as he passes. 
ANNE 
Miss me? 
MATTY 
James did. 
ANNE 
He just missed his clothes. 
MATTY 
Why'd ya do it, lass? Anne laughs as if it's the funniest thing she's ever heard. Rackam turns around to glare at them a moment. 
ANNE 
'Twas you who inspired me, Matty. 
MATTY 
Me? I inspired you to go on the account and leave your husband? 
ANNE 
To pretend I'm a lad. We had 'em fooled for a time, too. But eventually they reckoned me for what I am. 
Matty glances at Anne's exaggerated cleavage. 
MATTY 
Can't imagine how. Anne giggles and continues down the hill. 

INT. NASSAU ALE HOUSE -DAY 
The place is deserted. 
Matty walks in and looks around. MATTY 
Hello? Jamaica Brown? You here? 
No answer. Matty goes behind the bar. She stoops to rummage. TIMBER TOM (O.S.) 
You're a hothead, Wright. This has to be done quietly. 
Matty starts to stand up to make her presence known when she hears Wright's venomous voice. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
The governor'll be dead. What does it matter? Who's gonna do the hanging with him gone? 
Matty hides and listens. 
TIMBER TOM (O.S.) 
That's not the--What's this? 
Matty fears she's been discovered until she hears... 
PETER (O.S.) 
Hello, gents. Have you seen-.
PEARCE WRIGHT (O.S.) 
What did you hear? 
Matty crawls and peers around the bar, undetected. She sees TIMBER TOM, Wright and Peter in the center of the room. 
PETER 
What? I'm just looking for-.
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Nobody's here. Piss off, Hines. 
Peter is ready to lay into him when he spots Matty hiding. 
She puts her finger to her lips. Shh. PETER 
You're right. Nobody is what I see. 
He turns and leaves. 
Wright is ready to rage after him, but Timber Tom stops him. PEARCE WRIGHT 
I think he heard us! 
TIMBER TOM 
Heard what? Just talk. Even if he heard, he doesn't know when or how. You said it: Once the governor's dead, who's he going to tell? Himself!? He'll be next anyhow. 
Wright grins. 
TIMBER TOM 
Let's work this out now... Matty crawls back and listens as they continue to conspire... 
INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE -DAY 
Rogers sits at his desk, hunched over papers. 
Guards usher Matty in and leave her alone in the room. 
GOV. ROGERS 
(doesn't look up) I'm busy, Miss Read. What is it? 
She takes a step forward. 
MATTY 
Call me "Miss" again, and I'll let them murderers do their worst to you. Rogers, intrigued, looks up from his papers. [[PART 2: end act 2 -start act 3]] 

EXT. HOG ISLAND -WOODS -DAY 
Shadows grow long. 
Matty, soaking wet, saber drawn, steps through the dense woods. Annoying branches slap at her. 
MATTY 
Peter!? Matty looks around. She's lost. Suddenly a hand comes from behind, around her mouth. 
PETER 
Shh. You'll scare them off. 
Matty whips around to see Peter, bow and arrows slung over his shoulder. 
MATTY 
Bloody--What are you doing, Peter? 
PETER 
(whispers) Hog hunting, though I'm starting to wonder if Hog Island has any hogs left. 
MATTY 
We looked for you all day. Then I spotted your canoe over here. 
He steps back and looks at her, drenched. 
PETER 
You swam? She nods. 
PETER 
I went back to the ale house later and no one was there. So I thought I'd come-.SNAP! A rustle in the woods. 
PETER 
Shh. Don't move. 
He listens, then nods for her to move slowly. He readies his bow and arrow. Matty readies her saber. 
PETER 
(whispers) Look out. They come fast... Something charges toward them through the thick trees. Peter lets an arrow fly as a beast jumps clear of the trees. 
A heart-wrenching squeal, but it's no hog. Confused, Peter steps forward. In the thick undergrowth lies the big white dog, an arrow protruding from its front leg. 
PETER 
Capitana? The Great Pyrenees wags her tail and whimpers as she sits up. 
MATTY 
You two know each other? 
Peter goes to the dog and pets her, apologetic. He breaks the arrow, tears his sleeve and starts to dress the wound. 
MATTY 
You really do know each other! 
PETER 
Yes, she was with-.Realization washes over Peter. He grows urgent and serious. 
PETER 
We have to warn everyone. Peter stands and looks in both directions, conflicted. 
PETER 
Almirante Salmon is here. 
MATTY 
What? We saw no sail. 
PETER 
They must have approached from the northeast. Both look in that direction but see only thick foliage. 

EXT. HOG ISLAND-NORTH BEACH -DAY 
The beach teems with Spanish militia. Launch boats everywhere. A frigate at anchor in the shoals. 
An OFFICER faces the woods. 
SPANISH OFFICER 
Capitana! 
He stops a passing soldier. 
SPANISH OFFICER 
(in Spanish, subtitled) Where is the admiral's dog? The soldier shrugs and runs off. The officer whistles. Gives up and turns to spew orders. 

EXT. WOODS -DAY 
Matty looks down at the dog, then at Peter. 
MATTY 
Run fast, Peter. Warn the governor. 
PETER 
What about you? 
MATTY 
I'll go to the weapons store and warn the sentries. They haven't sounded the alarm, so they must not have spotted anything yet. 
PETER 
But, I can't leave you here-.Matty raises her saber. 
MATTY 
It's not your choice. It's mine. Go muster the militia. 
PETER 
No. Come with me. You can't stay-.
MATTY 
Go. I can take care of myself. 
PETER 
Matty, no! You have to-.Matty grabs Peter and kisses him, then pushes him away. 
MATTY 
Go. Peter's dumbstruck. 
MATTY 
Godspeed, Peter. 
Peter nods, but first takes her in his arms and kisses her for real. 
The moment he lets go he runs off. 
Matty watches him go, then she turns to run the opposite direction. The dog's whimper beckons her. 
MATTY 
Thanks for the warning. Now shh! She runs off. The dog sits, looks in both directions. 

EXT. HARBOR SIDE -DAY 
Peter runs to the heavy canoe, starts to jump in. He looks across the harbor. Removes his hunting gear. 
He dives and swims top speed toward the fortress. 

EXT. EAST SIDE -WEAPONS STORE -DAY 
Matty searches the tiny, roofless structure. No sign of life. She goes around, finds Timber Tom and Mick. Dead drunk. Matty kicks Mick. He shifts, adjusts his grip on his rum. 

EXT. EAST BEACH -NIGHT 
Matty steps to the edge of the beach just as the sun sets. 
She takes out her spyglass and searches the horizon... Finally, THROUGH THE GLASS she spies a tall ship miles away. 

EXT. SPANISH WARSHIP -HELM -NIGHT 
Under a Spanish flag Admiral Salmon raises a spyglass. 
THROUGH THE SCOPE, he sees his militia shove off in the launch boats in both directions around tiny Hog Island. 
Salmon lowers the glass and grins. 

INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE -NIGHT 
Peter bursts in through the doors past the startled guards. Rogers stands up behind his desk. 

EXT. HOG ISLAND -WEAPONS STORE -NIGHT 
Various weapons aim at the beach, positioned across the wall. Matty, inside the walls, pours black powder into a pistol. She peers over the top. Shadows creep up the beach. Undaunted, she fills weapon after weapon with powder. 

EXT. NASSAU BROTHEL -NIGHT 
Men run in all directions. 
Half dressed, Madame Fulford hangs on Bondavais as he stumbles out to surmise the activity. 
BONDAVAIS 
Keep warm my bed, ma cher. Disappointed, Fulford hands him his wig. 
EXT./INT. STAR OF AVON CABIN -NIGHT 
James peeks out the hatch. Men run everywhere. 

BELOWDECKS 
James grabs his pistol and powder horn. He notices one of Barnet's fancy grenados and grabs it. 
He pokes his head into cramped quarters where Andy and Dobbins play cards and Old Man Soward snoozes in the corner. 
JAMES 
Something's on the stir, gents. 

EXT. SPANISH WARSHIP -NIGHT 
Admiral Salmon spies the islands through his scope. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
(in Spanish, subtitled) 
We shall make England sorry she spawned a son named John Rackam. 

INT. NASSAU HOTEL -SAME 
Naked, drunk, passed out in bed, Rackam snores, clutches a bottle. 
Anne is aside him. Out cold. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -NIGHT 
The harbor appears calm and abandoned as silent Spanish longboats glide in from both ends around Hog Island. 
An English warship appears abandoned as the Spanish glide by. On deck, militiamen crouch at the ready, weapons drawn. 
Men and women hide all along shore, behind boats and trees, ready with muskets, pistols and a few small cannon. 

EXT. FORT NASSAU -SAME 
Rogers and Barnet peer through spyglasses to the dark water. 
Militiamen stand ready at the cannons. Rackam's gang and others heavily armed wait behind the parapets. 
GUNNER CORNY 
(whispers) Let's blow their Spanish heads off, laddies. All whisper their enthused agreement. Rogers lowers the glass and looks at Barnet. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Do you see that, captain? 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
(points) Larboard side...wait. Coming 'round starboard too. Sneaky devils. 
GOV. ROGERS 
Sound the alarm as soon as-.BOOM! A cannon blast rocks the far end of the harbor. At once the harbor is lit up by every kind of artillery 
imaginable. Corny and the men all stand. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Have at it, laddies! The cannons fire down the row one after the other. Armed pirates and militia spill over the wall toward the harbor 
beach below. [[PART 2: end act 3 -start act 4]] 

EXT. HOG ISLAND -EAST BEACH -SAME 
A non-stop barrage of firepower from Matty's weapons, two at a time. Coconut grenados fly. 
Enemy invaders make it up the berm. Boom! A few fall dead. 
Mick and Timber Tom are shot dead where they sit by Spaniards. 
Matty picks up a musket. Click. She tries a pistol. Click. More enemies charge toward her. She reaches for the pistol at her belt. Still wet from her swim 
over. She goes for her saber. 

EXT. NASSAU TOWN -SAME 
Townspeople pummel the surprised Spaniards. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -SAME 
Sailors aboard anchored ships attack with vigor. 

INT. NASSAU HOTEL -SAME 
Anne wakes to the sounds of battle outside. She nudges Rackam, who turns over, still asleep. Lets loose the bottle... Anne catches it. Snores continue. Exasperated, Anne kicks him out of bed. 
He continues to snore, naked, on the floor. Annoyed, Anne buries her head under pillows as the noises inside and out continue. 

EXT. HOG ISLAND -SAME 
Matty leaps onto the wall to do what she does best: skewers, clashes, slashes, kicks away relentless attackers. 

EXT. FORT NASSAU -SAME 
Corny effects orders to the gunners on the parapets. Several shots strike Spanish boats in the harbor. 
Overwrought by enthusiasm, Rackam's gang congratulates Barnet and the militiamen with slaps on the back. 
Corny startles Rogers with a bear hug. 
CORNY 
Ain't war grand, gov'nor? Corny lets Rogers go and spews more orders to the gunners. 

EXT. HOG ISLAND -EAST BEACH -SAME 
More attackers approach up the berm in overwhelming numbers. Matty turns to charge to her own certain deathĐĐ Several shots fire from behind the enemy. 
The Spaniards fall dead in their tracks. Matty looks out to see the Marianne, restored to her former glory, round the bend from the south. 
THE MARIANNE 
Bondavais' small new crew and a few of the brothel women fire from the rails and riggings. Matty's attackers rush for cover under their fire. The Spanish run to their boats and make a getaway. Relieved, Matty goes to the water's edge. 
MATTY 
Never thought I'd be glad to see a Frenchman in battle. 
BONDAVAIS 
I am not French. I'm from Quebec! Bondavais tips his hat. 
Matty laughs. Their attention is drawn to distant cheers. 


EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -SAME 
People along the shoreline cheer in victory as Spanish rowboats hurry to retreat. Some Spaniards jump overboard to swim in full gear for Hog Island. 

EXT. SPANISH WARSHIP -SAME 
The frigate IN SALMON'S SCOPE lowers the Spanish flag and hoists signal flags up the foremast. 
Salmon lowers his glass, disappointed, disgusted. 
ADMIRAL SALMON 
(Spanish, subtitled) Strike the colors. 

EXT. FORT NASSAU -SAME 
Barnet lowers his spyglass, smiles, raises his stumpy fist. All the men cheer and throw their hats in the air. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -DAY 
Matty, Peter and James' turtling crew prepare the Star of Avon for a voyage. The dog, leg bandaged, stands at the bow to oversee it all. Bondavais approaches, holds up a sealed paper. 
BONDAVAIS 
Where are you going? I thought you would finally join my crew! 
MATTY 
Sorry, Jean. We're for Eleuthera. 
JAMES 
You're looking at the new Independent Turtling Company. 
BONDAVAIS 
Mais non! I need at least forty more men for my new privateer crew. (holds up the paper) We've a commission for all of Hispaniola and Jamaica. I need all of you. 
He looks at Dobbins up in the riggings. 
BONDAVAIS 
Well, most of you. 
MATTY 
You are the most popular man on this island, Jean. I don't think you'll have any problem mustering a crew. 
Bondavais waves off others, Peter included. Looks at Matty. 
BONDAVAIS 
Them I care not, but you... I must have you. (winks) I absolument must have you! 
Peter crosses his arms. 
Matty sees, suppresses a smile. 
BONDAVAIS 
For my crew, of course. 
Bondavais steps back and looks at the gaze between them. BONDAVAIS 
I don't suppose I could even tempt you if I had a commission to the wrecks? 
Matty raises an eyebrow, then shakes her head. 
Bondavais removes his hat and bows slightly before Matty. BONDAVAIS (whispers) Would that I could, I should kiss you goodbye... But alas... 
He stands and replaces his hat and walks off. 
Wenches run up to him on his way toward town, dote on him like a harem around their prince. 
Matty's eyes move beyond him to the inn where Anne, barely clad and drunk, stumbles onto the porch. 
MATTY 
Let's leave at once. Matty circles to draw James' attention away. Peter wonders for a moment, spots Anne just before she goes 
back in. 
JAMES 
I need to find Anne. Peter and Matty share a knowing look. 
JAMES 
I want her to come too. Dobbins leaps down from the riggings and slaps his hands. 
DOBBINS 
What's that? A woman aboard? Never! Matty mocks Peter with an "I told you so" look. 
MATTY 
I'm sure she'll make a great cook. Dobbins considers the merits of it. 
JAMES 
I've decided to forgive her. James' innocent puppy-dog eyes melt Matty. 
MATTY 
I'll find her, James. You go now. Take the sloop and I'll bring Anne in the canoe in the morning. 
JAMES 
You know where she is? Peter shoots a look at Matty. 
MATTY 
I'll find her. 
JAMES 
Very good! We'll see you there. Peter pulls Matty aside while James goes back to work. 
PETER 
Now you're acting like a woman. Why meddle? 
MATTY 
Anne's just a child. I have to try to get her away from that villain. 
PETER 
Good luck with that. You may have to tie her up. 
MATTY 
If that's what it takes... I'll prepare the canoe, then get her just before daybreak and bring her at first light, willing or nay. 
PETER 
You can't be serious. Rackam will come after her. First he'll kill you, then James. 
MATTY 
Mayhap. But I've got to try. 
PETER 
But you've never been to Devil's Cay. 
MATTY 
I have charts. Matty turns to go. Peter stops her. 
PETER 
Wait. Is Anne really worth it? 
MATTY 
Is any woman worth the trouble? Peter smiles, steps closer, resists the urge to touch her. 
PETER 
Egad. I just remembered. 
MATTY 
Egad? 
PETER 
I have to get the license from the governor. 
MATTY 
For turtling? Bigger smile. He turns to James and shouts. 
PETER 
I'll be right back, James. 

EXT. GOVERNMENT HOUSE -DAY 
Wright leans under the big tree by the gate, sees Peter approach. 
Wright looks down at the harbor where a tough old salt and his African crew moor a nice sloop with long triangular sails. Wright looks back at Peter. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Business with the governor, Hines? Peter doesn't stop, but acknowledges Wright with a nod. Wright steps into Peter's path, goes nose to nose with him. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Got some interesting information for the governor, have ye now? Peter puzzles at that. 
PETER 
My business with him is of no concern to you. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Isn't it? 
Again, Peter is puzzled, and his bewilderment seems to satisfy Wright enough for him to step aside and let him pass. Peter passes, then stops. 
PETER 
I'm sorry about your mates out at the garrison. Nasty business, war. Wright nods, humbled... yet suspicious. 

INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE -DAY 
Guards usher Peter into the room. Alone behind his desk, Rogers appears haggard. He looks up through round glasses. 
PETER 
I'm sorry to bother you, governor. Rogers removes his glasses. Sits up straight, with great effort. 
GOV. ROGERS 
You're owed a great deal of thanks, Sir Peter. If I can be of service in any way... 

INT. GOVERNMENT HOUSE -NIGHT 
Wright climbs through the window, a knife in his teeth. He creeps to where Rogers sleeps in his bed. Wright raises the knife as he pulls back the covers-.
Pillows. Confused, Wright hears a click and turns to see Rogers point a pistol at him. 
Two guards rush in and subdue Wright. 
PEARCE WRIGHT 
Damned Hines! 

INT. RACKAM ANDANNE'S ROOM -NIGHT 
The door crashes open. Two armed militiamen rush in. Groggy, Anne sits up. She elbows Rackam to wake up. 

EXT. NASSAU TOWN CENTER -NIGHT 
The militiamen escort Anne and Rackam, both scantily dressed, through the streets where a remnant of townspeople look on in shocked disgust. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -SAME 
Matty steps from the canoe to the pier, sees Anne and Rackam get dragged to the fortress. 

INT. GOVERNOR'S OFFICE -NIGHT 
Rackam, infuriated, and Anne, abashed, stand before Rogers. 
RACKAM 
What in blazes is this? I was asleep! Rogers waves the air of the smell of him. 
GOV. ROGERS 
You've slept through much, Captain Rackam. Rogers snaps his fingers. Guards bring Wright in, fettered. 
GOV. ROGERS 
I'm sure Mr. Wright can fill you in on the details during your time in jail together. 
RACKAM 
Why am I here? What've I done? 
GOV. ROGERS 
Done? Nothing, Captain Rackam. Absolutely nothing. You've not complied with the terms of your pardon, you've done nothing to change your circumstance with Mistress Bonny, and you've certainly done nothing to help defend this island in its greatest hour of need. You're right, captain. YOU'VE DONE NOTHING! 
(to the militiamen) Take these men from my sight! 
The militiamen drag Rackam, combative and cursing, away with Wright just as 
Matty enters. She puzzles over the scene. 
She and Anne are left to face Rogers alone. 
GOV. ROGERS 
(to Anne) The law urges that you be flogged and returned to your husband. 
With repugnance, Rogers looks Anne over. 
GOV. ROGERS 
(to Matty) Cover her up. 
Matty removes her coat and puts it around Anne. 
ANNE 
Matty, I-.
GOV. ROGERS 
(disgusted) Starting tomorrow, this... 
He gestures to both of them, indicates their attire. 
GOV. ROGERS 
...will never be seen on this island again. (to Anne) Mrs. Bonny, you are to return at once to your husband. (to Matty) Your name, blessed by God himself at your baptism, is Mary Read. Find yourself 
(MORE) 
GOV. ROGERS (CONT'D) 
a husband and live as God made you. (to both) Now remove yourselves! Matty is momentarily stunned. Anne is tongue tied and wide eyed. 
Matty gruffly takes Anne's wrist, drags her out. The moment he's alone, Rogers reaches for the table to catch his balance, and his breath. 

EXT. NASSAU TOWN CENTER -SAME 
The two militiamen usher Rackam and Wright in chains through the street. 
RACKAM 
How's grub at the jailhouse, Mr. Wright? 
WRIGHT 
Scraps for dogs are better, captain. 
RACKAM 
I'd rather be off to the wrecks, wouldn't you? 
Rackam and Wright make eye contact, then look straight ahead. 
RACKAM 
I could use a quartermaster. 
WRIGHT 
Have you a vessel? 
RACKAM 
Harbor's full of 'em. Just look. 
Rackam turns toward the harbor and so do the curious militiamen. 
Wright wraps his chains around the neck of the closest militiaman. Rackam attacks the other. 
They all struggle for a time before Rackam and Wright overcome the men and drag them into an alley where they search for keys on both unconscious militiamen and work to unlock their shackles. 
WRIGHT 
Them words just for show, captain? 
RACKAM 
Go wake my crew. I'll get my clothes and meet you at the harbor. You'll be quartermaster before sunrise. 
Wright smiles and runs off when the last chain drops. Rackam runs in the opposite direction toward the inn. 
[[PART 2: end act 4 -tag]] 

EXT. FORT NASSAU COURTYARD -NIGHT 
Angry, Matty walks ahead of Anne. Takes out her pipe. No tobacco. She shoves it back in her pocket. Kicks a stone. 
ANNE 
I'm surprised you didn't draw your sword on that insufferable ass-.
Matty draws her saber and turns on Anne. 
MATTY 
Mrs. Bonny! Not another word from your arrogant lips. If anyone is insufferable, it is the selfish little imp who left her husband crying in his cabin every night while gallivanting off with a miserable pirate the likes of Calico Jack. 
Anne is ready to lay out a verbal assault, but she stops herself when Matty puts the tip of her blade to Anne's chest. 
MATTY 
Would you that I put James out of his misery here and now? 
Anne backs up. 
MATTY 
This bosom of yours is not a weapon, Mrs. Bonny. Though you wield it as such. Anne looks into Matty's murderous eyes. 
ANNE 
What're you going to do, lass? Kill me if I don't act the proper woman? Wouldn't that be the height of hypocrisy... 
Anne takes a deep breath and grips the dull side of the blade. 
ANNE 
You're wrong, Matty. My body is my weapon. Your God and king put that saber in your hands. But God gave me the charms of a woman. And no man shall reign over meself. Ever. 
Anne pushes the blade aside. She tries to step past Matty, but Matty slices the air all around her. 
MATTY 
Where do you suppose to go? Anne smiles. 
ANNE 
I wish to obey the good governor. I want to find my husband. 
MATTY 
Why? 
ANNE 
He's my husband. Is this not the very point you are trying to make? Matty is suspicious. 
ANNE 
I'll ask Monsieur Bondavais. He'll know where to find James. 
MATTY 
He doesn't know. Anne smiles with a touch of seduction. 
ANNE 
But you do? 
Matty lowers the saber, remains on guard. 
ANNE 
Take me to him, Matty. I'll be forever grateful. I've been a fool, and I know it. Anne bats her eyes at her. Matty grimaces, sheathes her saber. She walks out the gate. 

ROAD TO TOWN 
Anne catches up to Matty and loops her hand through her arm. 
ANNE 
Where are we going? Matty shakes Anne off her arm. 
MATTY 
You forget that your charms are lost on me. 
ANNE 
What are you going to do? Matty stops and looks at Anne. 
MATTY 
My life as a man was a lie. So was my life as a woman. Even my name... She looks down at her ringed finger. Removes the ring. 
MATTY 
I'm going to do exactly as the Governor ordered. Matty walks off again. Anne struggles to keep up with her long strides. 
ANNE 
You'll put on a dress and find a husband? 
MATTY 
No one said anything about a dress. [[end episode 2 here?]] 
[[PART 3: teaser]] 
ANNE 
But, what about me? Where is James? 
MATTY 
Madame, do you promise to do right by him? 
ANNE 
I promise on me mother's grave. 
MATTY 
So I won't have to hogtie ye, then? Anne follows, intrigued. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -NIGHT 
Anne and Matty prepare to push away from the dock. Matty jumps into the canoe and reaches for the line. A pistol hammer clicks behind Anne on the dock. Both turn to see Rackam there, his aim on Matty. Anne moves protectively in front of Matty. 
RACKAM 
Step aside, love. 
ANNE 
No, Jack. Matty's me friend. 
RACKAM 
Make your choice. Him or me. [[PART 3: end teaser -start Act 1]] Anne turns to face Matty. She puts out her hand for Matty to 
give up her pistol. Matty puts the grip in Anne's hand. With her eyes, Matty tries to convince Anne to turn and shoot Rackam. 
Anne shakes her head. 
MATTY 
So you'd kill me for this villain? 
Anne turns to Rackam, but keeps the pistol. She looks him in the eye as she addresses Matty. 
ANNE 
I'm sorry, Matty. (to Rackam) Matty's a woman. 
Rackam, stunned for a moment, bends over laughing. 
ANNE 
She's my friend, and I'll not harm her. And neither will you. 
MATTY 
(infuriated) Let go of the line, Anne. I'm leaving you to your own choices. You two fools deserve each other. 
Rackam subdues himself, points his pistol at Matty. 
RACKAM 
First, I'll need proof of this revelation about Miss Read. 
ANNE 
You'll take my word, Jack. 
RACKAM 
Second, Read's going to tell me where to find that striker Hines. 
MATTY 
What do you want with him? 
RACKAM 
We're for the wrecks. Spanish camps are all abandoned. There's still millions in gold to be found there. 
Anne lights up. 
Matty is conflicted. 
ANNE 
Finally? I've waited forever to go to the wrecks. 
(gasps) If Mr. Hines is with James, it happens that I know where they've gone. Get in Jack. Let's go straight away. 
MATTY 
Peter won't join you. I can promise you that. 
RACKAM 
Then you'll have to convince him. Use that feminine charm, maybe? 
He looks at her. Can't see it. 
RACKAM 
But we'll need something faster than this back-breaking old bucket. 
PHOENIX (O.S.) 
There be no more yare a vessel than that of Captain Hamm. 
They all turn to see Brown and Phoenix coming toward them. 
RACKAM 
John "catch him if you can" Hamm? With the Bermuda rig? 
PHOENIX 
The same. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
We just saw him with his laddies. They're for a long night of distraction at the brothel. 
Rackam looks around at the boats and spots one with long triangular rigging. It appears abandoned. 
PHOENIX 
Take us with ye, and I'll take care of anyone who may be on watch. 
RACKAM 
Why are you so keen to go on the account, old salt? 
PHOENIX 
What else is there? That blasted governor's spoilt our business. 
JAMAICA BROWN 
He'll not renew our license lest we restore the old church's roof and build a new ale house. 
PHOENIX 
For a man with half a face, he's plenty of cheek, that one. Rackam considers, looks at the boat. 
RACKAM 
Hamm's a dangerous man to cross. Wright and a dozen of Rackam's gang rush up. 
WRIGHT 
Morning light's almost here. Not much time, Captain. Rackam looks from the men to the boat to Matty. He grins. 

INT. GOVERNMENT HOUSE -NIGHT 
Dressed in bedclothes, Rogers kneels by his bed in praying position, asleep. 
BOOM! A cannon blast wakes Rogers. Distant shouts bring him to his exhausted, hobbling feet. 

EXT. NASSAU HARBOR -SAME 
Under a pre-dawn sky, the riotous Bermuda sloop sails past the fortress toward the sunrise. 
Instead of a flag, Matty's coat flies from the mast. 
ON DECK 
Scantily dressed Anne and all the men jump and shout. 
WRIGHT 
Hey, governor, come see our parting gift... Maybe we should fire another shot, eh? 
RACKAM 
Nay. We've wasted enough powder on the canoe. 
With the tethered canoe behind it, the sloop heads for the Delicia. Inside the canoe, black powder is scattered beneath a keg hanging from the single mast. 
Rackam turns to Matty. She stands aft, holds a hatchet. 
RACKAM 
As we're about the governor's brig. Angry, Matty hacks away the rope tied to the rail. 
RACKAM 
Not now! It'll hit the beach! The rope snaps. Matty drops the hatchet and walks away. Rackam fumes at her, but refocuses on the drifting canoe. He 
takes the cigar from his mouth and tosses it to the canoe. A small explosion sets the canoe ablaze. Rackam watches, anxious as the fire runs up the mast toward the keg. 
RACKAM 
Go to blazes, governor! The keg catches fire as the canoe hits the beach, then BOOM! All duck the splintery blast. Dozens of sleepy men peer over the parapets from above. Anne searches faces for Rogers. She steps up on the high stern 
of the sloop, then removes her scant clothing. Matty watches, mortified. 
ANNE 
If you want me flogged, come and do it yourself, governor! The pirate crew and the men at the fort watch her in awe. 

INT. GOVERNMENT HOUSE -DAY 
Barnet storms into Rogers' bedroom unceremoniously. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Governor, you must come see... Rogers pants in a heap by his sunlit window. Barnet rushes to help Rogers sit up. 
GOV. ROGERS 
I heard enough. Captain Barnet, I want you on the chase. And notify Capitaine Bondavais... But first, help me draw up a warrant... 
Rogers passes out. 

EXT. DEVIL'S CAY -LAGOON -DAY 
The morning sun casts colors over the serene water. 
From the anchored Star's deck, Andy and Dobbins watch Old Man Soward ride a fast turtle through the lagoon. Soward hangs tight, yells the whole way. Ashore, with a spear in one hand, and a slain pig at his feet, 
Peter watches and laughs with James, who ties the hooves. 
JAMES 
This is a good life, mate. 
PETER 
Only one thing missing. 
Peter throws down the spear and reaches into a pocket. He pulls out a paper and shows it to James. 
JAMES 
What's this? James looks at it. 
Peter looks out to the horizon. 
JAMES 
A license...for marriage! You? And Matty? 
PETER 
If she'll have me. James looks down, sad. Peter pockets the paper. 
JAMES 
I miss my Anne. 
PETER 
I know, friend. But I've a feeling you'll see her again. And soon. James follows Peter's romantic gaze to the horizon. Soward whizzes by, hollers with joy. 

EXT. DEVIL'S CAY -DAY 
Rackam's prize sloop glides through crystalline water toward the small island's beach. 
The Star of Avon lies anchored off shore with Dobbins, Andy and Soward aboard. 

ON RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Anne, in ill-fitting male clothes, shouts from the rail while Matty climbs astern for an elevated view of the situation. 
ANNE 
Where's James, you web-footed bastards? He's got a whipping coming to him! 
Matty anxiously scans the length of the shore WITH HER SCOPE. She catches a movement far up the beach. Anne and the crew remain focused on the anchored boat's crew. 
ANNE 
Give him up or it'll be your backs to the whip, you bloody turncoats. 
Matty sees James dart along the beach and disappear into the treeline, out of sight. She turns to Anne. 
MATTY 
Let them be. They aren't part of this. James isn't even with them. 
ANNE 
Stay out of this, Matty. 

IN SHALLOW WATER 
Peter emerges. A fish flops at the end of his trident. He spots Rackam's sloop. Matty's coat flies at the mast. He drops the trident and swims for 
THE STAR OF AVON 
Dobbins and Andy panic to unfurl the sails. Old Man Soward struggles with the anchor. Peter climbs aboard and grabs a hatchet. He hacks at the anchor 
line. 
IN THE WOODS 
James pants as he runs along a narrow path. 


RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Rackam comes between Anne and Matty. He eyes Matty up and down. 
RACKAM 
Convince the half-breed to join us, Read. We need him at the wrecks, and I'll not take a nay from him. 
Wright snarls, ready to pounce. 
WRIGHT 
Don't give it a thought, Read. I'll get that lascar son of a bitch. 
MATTY 
He's West Indian, Mr. Wright. 
WRIGHT 
I don't care if he's a God-damn monkey. He ratted me out to the governor. 
(for Peter to hear) I hope he puts up a good fight. After I kill him, I'll string him up to dry with his catch. 
STAR OF AVON 
Two large turtle shells hang from the lines over the deck. Peter gives up on the anchor line as Rackam's sloop anchors 
alongside. Soward runs to where Wright lays a plank. Rackam starts across. 
OLD MAN SOWARD 
There's no prize here, Jack. Just men and turtles. And I ain't going with you no more. 
RACKAM 
No one wants you, old man. 


THE WOODS 
James stops to catch his breath. He listens. The sound of crashing waves. 
STAR OF AVON 
Peter faces Rackam while the pirates board. 
PETER 
What do you want, captain? Rackam smiles and turns in a rage directed at Matty. 
RACKAM 
Captain. That's a start. A little respect! Matty ignores him and stares at Peter, who grips the hatchet. 

EXT. DEVIL'S CAY -WINDWARD BEACH -DAY 
The surf crashes along the barren, windy beach. 
James emerges from the woods, breathless, his face covered in welts and trickling blood. Exhausted, James collapses to his knees, weeps. 
JAMES 
Why, Anne? Why? 
A crack of thunder draws his sad eyes to the distant horizon. A monster storm brews beyond the blue skies overhead. James' sorrow morphs into anger. 
JAMES 
I'M NOT WHIPPED YET! 

ON RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Matty watches Anne scope the island, suspicious. Matty draws her saber and aims it at Peter. 
MATTY 
Are you coming or not, Mr. Hines? Everyone looks at Matty, surprised. Especially Peter. 

EXT. DEVIL'S CAY -RACKAM'S SLOOP -DAY 
Rackam's crew scatters about the deck, arranged like an audience. The turtling crew sits, hands tied, next to the main mast. They watch with equal interest. 
ON THE STAR OF AVON 
Matty and Peter, faced off with swords, parlay like gentlemen fencers. 


INTERCUT -SLOOP / STAR OF AVON 
The onlookers boo. 
WRIGHT 
Bilge and hogwash! Let me do this myself! Out of their earshot... 
MATTY 
I'm trying to save your life! 
PETER 
Then let me swim ashore. Peter gives it a second then makes a false move. The men all shout their approval as Matty steps back. 
PETER 
I'm done with these villains... 
MATTY 
They need a diver. 
PETER 
...and the wrecks. Matty clinks his sword in frustration. 
PETER 
If you force me, I'll be done with you too. Matty stands erect, lowers her sword to her side. 
MATTY 
They'll kill you, Peter. 
PETER 
They'll have to. Peter remains on guard. Finally, he stands up straight too. They stare at each other, sad. All the pirates boo them. Matty holds back tears. She makes a sudden move, causes 
Peter to nearly drop his sword. Loud cheers. 
ANNE 
Give him hell, Matty! Matty catches Peter in the jaw with her fist. 
MATTY 
Step it up, Sir Peter. 
RACKAM 
We can't hear you! Peter bucks up and resumes his defense. 
PETER 
(loudly) There's no treasure left at the wrecks. You don't need me to fish for wormwood, do you? 
The men mock and chide him. 
The two swords clash in a fury. 
PETER 
It's all gone to the depths, I tell you! The fight moves up to the quarterdeck. More cheers. 
Peter seems to gain the upper hand. 
WRIGHT 
First blood! 
ENTIRE CREW 
(chant) First blood! First blood! ... 
Peter labors to push her against the rail. He pins her. 
MATTY 
(in hushed tones) End this. Cut my arm. 
PETER 
What? I don't want to-.She pushes him off her. They circle each other, angry. 
RACKAM 
Boring! I'm ready to send Mr. Wright. Anne leans in and cuddles up to Rackam. 
ANNE 
Let them play it out. It's like Shakespeare. 
RACKAM 
Ay, bloody Hamlet. 
ANNE 
Nay. The Twelfth Night. Romeo and Juliet... She kisses him to distraction. 
MATTY 
You can't win, so don't try. 
PETER 
Or what? You'll cut off my fingers? Infuriated, Matty charges him. 
He smiles at first, then realizes she means business. 
The men cheer as she charges him in a relentless onslaught, blow after blow, pushes him back around the deck. 
PETER 
(exhausted) 
I'll not go back to the wrecks willingly. 
MATTY 
Fine! Then come as my prisoner. 
Matty spins and cuts the line that holds the sun-dried turtle shells. They crash down on Peter, knock him to the ground. The men all cheer. 
Matty rushes to Peter's side. He's out. 

LATER 
Wright drags Peter to Rackam's sloop. He purposely bumps him into the rails. 
RACKAM 
Fire that boat! 
ANNE 
It belongs to me, Jack! 
RACKAM 
If it burns, James is marooned. He looks up at the threatening distant sky. 
RACKAM 
I don't think the dory will do him much good with that tempest coming. 
Anne goes over to old Soward who's ready to climb down to the dory (launch boat). She pulls a knife from her belt. 
ANNE 
Tell Mr. Bonny I'll be back someday to give him that whipping promised me by 
the governor. 
She cuts the lash on his wrists. 
As he climbs in the launch, the white dog swims up to the sloop's ladder. 
OLD MAN SOWARD 
Capitana's lookin' for her Master. Anne frowns at the dog and shoves the boat off with her foot. 

EXT. DEVIL'S CAY -NIGHT 
Burning remnants of the Star of Avon wash up on the beach. 
A torrential rain douses the flames and drenches the beach. Hurricane winds whip the island. The launch boat leans overturned against a tree. James and 
Soward huddle beneath it, look at each other, hopeless. Lightning cracks nearby. A tall tree falls above them. 

INT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -OFFICER'S CABIN -NIGHT 
Peter lies semi conscious on a bunk. A huge bruise covers his 
bare shoulder. In the shadowy corner, Matty dozes crumpled up, the dog at her feet. 
Peter stirs and moans. Matty awakens, rushes to his side with a mug of water. 
MATTY 
If you're too lame to dive, you'll be shot like a horse. 
PETER 
No doubt Mr. Wright will volunteer. He drinks. 
She is not amused. 
PETER 
I can handle him. 
MATTY 
Well, Sir Peter, I think Pearce Wright's powder may do more harm than your 
trident. 
Peter ponders that as he takes another drink. 

EXT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -ASTERN -SAME 
The storm rages in the distance. Wright and Phoenix watch its fury near where Andy steers into the vast darkness. 
Wright takes a swig of rum. 
WRIGHT 
Read's a useless ninny. 
PHOENIX 
He got Mr. Hines aboard, ya dunderhead. 
WRIGHT 
Ay, and Hines got my cabin now. I'm quartermaster! 
Phoenix swipes the bottle from Wright, who grabs it back for another swig. 
WRIGHT 
Hines is half Indian, half rat. Time to make mincemeat of him. 
PHOENIX 
And who'll dive the wrecks? You? Methinks you'd drown in a wine vat. Wright stumbles past Phoenix, who swipes the rum back again. 
INT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -OFFICER'S CABIN -SAME 
Matty sets Peter's water aside. He caresses her hand. 
MATTY 
I should go... You need rest. 
PETER 
What I need is to be with you. He pulls her to him. They kiss. 
MATTY 
I thought you were "done" with me. 
Peter winces, reaches for his satchel. He withdraws a paper. She takes it. 
MATTY 
What's this? She stands in shock, begins to pace as she reads it. 
PETER 
Matty, I don't care if you dress like a man or not... 
MATTY 
Is that so? I have your permission then? 
PETER 
You think that a man's freedom is all you need. I know better-.She throws the paper at him just as he sits up, swoons. 
MATTY 
Do you? And this is how you prove it? A marriage license? A license for you to decide what's best for me? 
He tries to catch her hand as she paces by and misses. 
PETER 
You know that's not what I meant. 
MATTY 
You're a man. I know how you think. 
PETER 
Yours is the heart of a woman, Mary Read. 
Matty turns to face him, furious for uttering the name. In pain, Peter stands, blocks her path. He touches her face. Tears form, but she remains guarded. He embraces her. 
PETER 
Don't deny who you really are. Not with me... They kiss. Long and passionate. He wipes her tears. 
MATTY 
I am as you find me, Peter. 
PETER 
I find you perfect... Marry-.
MATTY 
Stop calling me that. It-.
PETER 
Not Mary. Marry. Be my wife, by whatever name you choose. Matty backs away until her back is to the opposite wall. 
PETER 
Just be with me. Forever. They stare at each other. She starts to warm to the idea-.The door bursts open. Pearce Wright barrels in, drunk. 
PETER 
What is this? 
The dog barks. Matty calms her to a growl. She grasps her saber's hilt, ready for trouble. 
WRIGHT 
I'll dispatch your treacherous arse to the devil, Hines. 
PETER 
You seem a bit muddled for the job, Mr. Wright. 
With great care, Matty slowly, silently unsheathes her sword. 
WRIGHT 
Noon sun, tomorrow, when we land at Hogsty Reef. Meet me on the beach. 
PETER 
For what purpose? 
WRIGHT 
A duel to the death. Choose your weapons if ye accept. 
As Wright towers over him, Peter considers, then nods. He glances at Matty. 
PETER 
Trident and tomahawk. Matty fumes. 
WRIGHT 
Trid--? What am I supposed to do with baubles like that? 
PETER 
I don't give a flip what you do, Mr. Wright. I, for one, plan to scalp you after I 
skewer you. 
Wright sneers and turns to leave. 
PETER 
Are you backing out? 
WRIGHT 
I could kill you with a toothpick, you half-breed bugger. Noon-.
MATTY 
Eighth bell, you dolt-.
WRIGHT 
(to Matty) 
You his second, Read? 
PETER 
Yes. Noon. Next port. 
The door slams behind Wright. Peter stares at the door, then at Matty. Matty sheathes her sword and rushes to Peter. 
He moves to embrace her. She pushes him back on the bunk. 
MATTY 
You idiot. The man's a logger. He knows how to use a spear and axe better than most. He'll murder you! She grabs her hat and storms out, leaves him moaning in pain. [[PART 3: end act 1 -start Act 2]] 

EXT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -NIGHT 
Matty stews, puffs on her pipe. She watches the stormy skies that follow them. 
Anne, decked out in feminine finery, comes up and nudges Matty, who looks her over. 
ANNE 
James is a sentimental fool. Kept all my clothes. I've a perfect dress for you-.Matty gives her a cockeyed look. 
MATTY 
I doubt James is so sentimental now. Anne looks and shrugs. 
ANNE 
Serves him right. 
MATTY 
(incredulous) Maybe there isn't hope for you. 
ANNE 
What? 
MATTY 
(very angry) Look at that sky, Anne. James is in that! You're punishing the man for loving you. 
Matty takes pause from her own words. 
ANNE 
Oh, pish. He never loved me. That bandy-legged nincompoop was happy to have me on his arm. He got what he wanted. I got what I wanted. 
MATTY 
Have you any remorse? For anything? Anne scowls at Matty, makes an abrupt turn, saunters off. Matty watches Anne pass by Wright, who sits with Corny on a 
barrel as Phoenix and Brown shoot dice. All stop to gawk at Anne until she disappears into the captain's cabin. Matty stalks toward Wright as if to pass...steps on his foot. 
WRIGHT 
Watch your damned step, Read. 
MATTY 
Was that your foot? Thought it was a rat's tail. Wright stands and hovers over Matty. 
WRIGHT 
Only rat on this ship is in my cabin, fouling up my bunk. 
MATTY 
You sure of that? 
WRIGHT 
I know of what I speak. 
MATTY 
You accuse the wrong man. 
WRIGHT 
Oh, and how do you know? Matty crosses her arms, stares at him until he realizes... 
WRIGHT 
You? You told the governor-.She smashes her pipe at his feet, glares. 
WRIGHT 
What? Are you challenging...a duel? 
MATTY 
Meet me when the sun hits the yardarm at our next port. Wright, confused, looks to Corny who rolls his eyes. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Sun hits the yardarm at four bells... Nothing registers for Wright. 
GUNNER CORNY 
In the forenoon watch. 
WRIGHT 
What time? 
PHOENIX 
Ten in the morning, ya landlubber. 
WRIGHT 
Fine. You be me second, Corny, and after I kill this pip, I'll have a nice rest before I kill Hines at noon. 
Wright spits in his hand, extends it for Matty to do likewise and shake. 
She looks at the filthy hand, spits over the rail. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Sword and pistol, then? 
Wright nods. Matty smiles. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Third watch, fourth bell. Matty nods and walks away. She turns back. 
MATTY 
You're my second, Phoenix. And don't let's make this a party. Jack need not know. 
WRIGHT 
Secret'll be out when you're dead. 
MATTY 
Which will cause a greater stir, Mr. Wright...my death, or yours? Corny, Phoenix and Brown snicker. Matty walks off. 

EXT. DEVIL'S CAY -DAY 
In the peaceful morning light, the island is ravaged. Broken pieces of the launch boat are strewn about the beach. 
Soward's lifeless body lies under debris. James shivers under a clutch of trees. 

EXT. HOGSTY REEF -DAY 
Alone in the middle of the vast ocean, two tiny sand spits about 300 feet apart face each other, connected by a horseshoe of sand to form a lagoon. 
Rackam's sloop is anchored at the mouth of the lagoon. The sun gleams just under the yardarm. The ship's HOURGLASS runs very low... 

EXT. RACKAM'S BEACH -DAY 
In a longboat, Anne, Rackam, Peter, Dobbins and 4 others arrive at the round, flat beach where a splintery mainmast protrudes from the watery depths. 
All go ashore, Anne in full dress, with parasol. 
They move across the sand to look at the curiosity of the wrecked ship. 
RACKAM 
If that be old Hornigold's ship, it'll have coffers of gold. Show us your diving skills, Mr. Hines. 
PETER 
I need to prove myself? 
RACKAM 
You need to prove you can still do as you're told. Now let's see whether that shoulder of yours is too damaged. 
Rackam points his pistol at Peter. 
Peter ignores his threat and looks out across the lagoon to the opposite beach. Wright and 4 others row in the small tender toward shore, silhouetted against the morning sun. 
PETER 
What about Wright? I have an appointment with him at noon. 
ANNE 
You may not be able to keep your appointment if that storm moves any faster. 
They all look to the distant clouds on the horizon. 
RACKAM 
Be quick about it, Hines. The sooner we're around this storm, the sooner we'll find the greater treasure in Florida. 
Peter removes his shirt and heads for the water. 

MATTY'S BEACH 
Matty, Wright, Phoenix, Brown and Corny disembark at the opposite narrow beach. 
Matty and Wright stare each other down while the others make preparations, move things about on the long, raised beach. 
Phoenix grumbles as his pegleg sinks in the sand. He sits on a log. 
WRIGHT 
Well, Read. Why are you so bent on your own demise? 
MATTY 
Why do you make noise about it? Wright draws his pistol. Matty takes her pistol and the bullet. She looks across to the other beach where Rackam and Anne look down at the water. 

UNDER WATER 
Peter swims a long way down to the broken decks of the wrecked ship. 
MATTY'S BEACH 
Matty and Wright step toward each other. 
RACKAM'S BEACH 
Peter bobs his head out of the water. 

MATTY'S BEACH 
With their pistols pointed straight up in front of their noses, Matty and Wright stand back to back. The silhouette emphasizes their vast difference in size. 

RACKAM'S BEACH 
Anne meets Peter at the water's edge with a water canister. 
PETER 
Nothing of worth that I can see. Just a fishing boat. 
RACKAM 
To hell and blazes. 

MATTY'S BEACH 
Corny steps up to Matty and Wright, crosses himself. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Have either of you an apology or means to make amends? Matty stares straight ahead. Wright shakes his head. 

SLOOP'S HELM 
The HOURGLASS runs out. Andy rings the BELL rings 4 times. 

RACKAM'S BEACH 
As he gulps water Peter glimpses toward the sound of the bell and sees the activity across the water. 
MATTY'S BEACH 
Matty and Wright step to Corny's count. 
GUNNER CORNY 
One. Two. Three... 
RACKAM'S BEACH 
Anne turns when Peter points across to Matty and Wright. 
ANNE 
What the hell? 
PETER 
What the hell indeed! 

MATTY'S BEACH 
Sweat-covered Corny finishes the tense count. 
GUNNER CORNY 
...Eight. Nine. Ten! Wright whirls around frantically and fires, misses Matty. Matty calmly uncocks her pistol and secures it in her belt. She unsheathes her saber and squares off. 
PHOENIX 
(to the others) Did Read's pistol go off? Corny shrugs. Everyone looks confused. Wright pulls his sword from his belt. 
WRIGHT 
You're a fool, Read. Have you any idea what you're doing? 
MATTY 
I knew what I was doing when I told the governor about your unholy plot to destroy him. 
Wright growls. 
MATTY 
And I'd do it again, you murdering coward. Wright turns animal and stampedes after Matty. She easily steps aside, but his huge arm delivers a blow. The force of it knocks her off her feet. 

RACKAM'S BEACH 
Peter runs to the boat and jumps in. Rackam cocks his pistol and points it at him. 
PETER 
Shoot if you will. Or come with me. I'm not letting that brute slaughter Matty. Rackam looks at the others. Anne runs to get in the boat. 
ANNE 
Jack, we have to get over there. Rackam nods for all to get in. 

MATTY'S BEACH 
Matty quickly rises to her feet and fully engages Wright, steel on steel. She catches his forearm with her blade. 
GUNNER CORNY 
First blood, Wright. You lose. 
WRIGHT 
We made no such terms. This is to the death. Matty glares at him. 
GUNNER CORNY 
You agree, Read? Matty looks over to the opposite beach where Peter and the others scramble to the boat. She nods. Wright charges her. 
IN THE BOAT 
Peter slips his shirt on while Rackam's men row. 
PETER 
(to Rackam) Can't your rum-heads row any faster? 
Rackam lets it slide as he's mid-swig from a rum bottle. With his free hand he makes a rolling motion for the men to row faster. 
Dobbins scowls as he strains. 
The boat passes the sloop. 
The dog barks at Peter from the bow. The men aboard angle for a better view of the action. 

MATTY'S BEACH 
A misty drizzle begins. With each swing of his blade Wright lumbers. 
Matty has ample time to outmaneuver him, but they both show signs of fatigue as he swings hard and she dodges. While Matty seems to be winning, Wright starts to get a few 
strikes, catches her arm, shoulder and chest with the sharp tip 
of his cutlass. She retaliates with a slice that gouges his eye and cuts down through his clavicle. 
Lame on one side, dripping with blood, it only enrages him. 
WRIGHT 
When I'm through with you, I'll take care of your savage friend. 
MATTY 
That so? With one arm and one eye? 
Wright rushes Matty. She goes airborne and kicks him with both feet in the pelvis, balanced the sword tip in the sand. 
It sends him rolling down the beach to the water and knocks her on her back. Winded, she struggles to get up. 
Corny and the others yell for her to get up. They all look at each other, surprised that they're rooting for her. 
PHOENIX 
Never did like Mr. Wright. 
Matty white-knuckles her sword, gasps. She can't get up. 
Wright's blood seeps into the water as he heaves himself to his knees. He finds his footing and re-orients himself. He comes after Matty, ready to deliver the death blow. 
Charging up the shore he raises his sword with both hands over his head and thrusts it straight down to finish her. 
Matty takes a huge breath and turns at the last second. The sword nicks her arm and pins down her shirt, but she rolls out of it. Her shredded linen wrap dangles in sheer wet strips with her torn-up shirt when she tumbles to her feet. 
Wright's sword sticks out of the sand like Excalibur. He pulls at it from all angles. It doesn't budge. 
WRIGHT 
It's God-damn rock underneath! The tip of Matty's sword touches Wright's heart. Wright looks up and stumbles back at the sight of her shredded 
shirt. There's no doubt she's a woman. Rackam's boat arrives, beaches in the bloody water. 
Peter and the others run ashore shouting. Matty takes her pistol and aims it at Jack as he comes up, still holding the sword to Wright. 
MATTY 
Let Mr. Hines go, Jack, and I'll let this murderous pig live! 
Wright is mesmerized by Matty's half-dressed body. He drops to his knees in exhaustion. 
Matty aims the sword at his nose. Rackam looks at Wright, then at Peter, and crosses his arms. 
RACKAM 
We need a diver for the wrecks more than a landlubbing quartermaster. Furious, Matty spins and looks at Corny. Wright struggles to get up. 
MATTY 
You're promoted, Mr. Corner. 
...Matty turns and plunges her sword into Wright's chest. He falls back and she goes with him, not letting go of her saber as she hovers over him. 
WRIGHT 
(final breath) 
Who the hell are you? 
MATTY 
Tell the devil 'twas Mary Read sent ya. She twists the blade. 
Wright dies, eyes wide open. Matty slowly moves away from Wright, exhausted. All seem to hold their breath as Matty tries to cover herself and 
stumbles down the hill toward Rackam. When she reaches him, she aims the pistol to his head. Rackam's cockiness, for once, is diminished. 
MATTY 
Someone beg me not to shoot this fool with the bullet saved for him. She looks around. 
All eye each other, afraid to say the wrong thing. Matty catches Anne's angry glare. She cocks the pistol. Anne moves to say something, but Peter steps up. 
PETER 
You're not a murderer, Matty. Matty holds back laughter and nods over to Wright's body. 
MATTY 
I've killed more men than all the fish you've ever caught. Peter's taken aback. 
MATTY 
Any regrets? 
PETER 
None. 
MATTY 
(sighs) 
I'm tired, Peter. I'm tired of this... 
She pushes the pistol roughly against Rackam's head. 
MATTY 
...this pirate ruining my life. Peter puts his hand out for her to give him the pistol. 
MATTY 
Aren't you sick of him, Peter? The world'll be better without him... Rackam throws a threatening look Peter's way. 
PETER 
That's for God and the Admiralty to decide, Matty. Not you. Deflated by his response, Matty lowers the gun to her side. Rackam takes a huge step away and exhales with relief. 
Anne rushes to his side in comfort. She glares at Matty with murderous contempt. 
With Matty near collapse, Peter intercepts. He removes his shirt, covers her up, walks her toward shore. 
The men all swarm around Wright's body and stare after Matty as she and Peter climb into the boat. 
RACKAM 
Come, laddies. Cast him to the sea. Mr. Corner, you're... 
Rackam stops when he realizes everyone is watching Matty in stupefied silence. 
RACKAM 
HEY! They snap to and look at Rackam. 
PHOENIX 
(to all, suspicious) How many more o' ya are birds? 
They study each other until all wary eyes settle on Dobbins. 
DOBBINS 
What the hell are you looking at? 

EXT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -DAY 
Andy leans over the rail to help Matty up out of the boat. Matty accepts his hand and looks him in the eye. He smiles. She beelines past him and the gaping crew to the cabin while 
Peter secures the boat. At the door she turns and pronounces to Andy et al... 
MATTY 
Tell your new quartermaster, if he wants this cabin, he'll need sword and pistol to claim it. 
She disappears inside with a slam. 

INT. OFFICER'S CABIN -DAY 
Matty, cleaned up now, paces, revved up with brewing emotion. 
PETER (O.S.) 
No one's ever killed for me. 
Matty freezes, her back to Peter who shuts the door behind him. 
MATTY 
I killed plenty Frenchmen for Han. Peter steps toward her. Matty tenses. 
PETER 
Han was your husband in Holland? She nods, chokes back tears. Peter approaches her. Slow. Cautious. 
MATTY 
I was a fool then too. Followed him everywhere like a drooling puppy dog. Thought I loved him. 
PETER 
Didn't you? She nearly turns around, but steps forward, away from him. 
PETER 
Did he love you? 
MATTY 
(bitter) He made me wear dresses. 
Peter grins, shakes his head and steps closer. 
PETER 
I've read about those Dutch ogres. 
MATTY 
You joke, but he burned my uniform. He never understood me. Not like-.
PETER 
I wish you had a dress right now. 
Shocked and appalled, Matty spins to face him, surprised to find him so near. He grabs her arms and cuts her off before she can protest. 
PETER 
A white dress. He nods toward the marriage license on the table. 
PETER 
I'm going to make you my wife. Right here. Right now. He kisses her. When they stop, her face is covered in tears. 
PETER 
Till death us do part? 
MATTY 
May it not come too soon. 
They kiss again... After a brief struggle for dominance, Peter gains control, picks her up and carries her to the bunk. 

EXT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -NIGHT 
A full moon over clear waters. Storm clouds barely visible on the horizon. 
Rackam and the crewmen sit around the helm, drinking. 
DOBBINS 
We're surrounded by damnable petticoats. 
GUNNER CORNY 
What of it? The two of 'em's got more pluck than you ever did. 
DOBBINS 
Says who? 
GUNNER CORNY 
Says me. 
DOBBINS 
Oh yeah-.
RACKAM 
Belay your talk. The women stay, and we're better for it. 
GUNNER CORNY 
How so, cap? 
RACKAM 
Every privateer from Barbados to Bermuda is after us now. 
The crew look at each other, curious. 
RACKAM 
With lasses aboard, they'll think twice before attacking. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Ay! And them's we chase will surrender the sooner. 
IRISHMAN 
That so? And how's a man to know Mary Read's a lass if we didn't know all this time? 
RACKAM 
(smiling) Anne'll take care of that. 
INT. RACKAM'S SLOOP (UNDERWAY) -OFFICER'S CABIN -DAY 
Bright sunlight fills the cabin. Capitana lies by the window. 
Matty sleeps, content in Peter's arms. Slowly they wake together. 
PETER 
You are all woman, Lady Hines. She smiles and kisses him, suddenly distracted... 
MATTY 
It feels like we're moving. 
PETER 
We are... 
She gently pushes him off her and half sits up, looking at the window. 
MATTY 
We're under weigh. Storm's passed. Exasperated, Peter gives up and sits with her, cuddles. 
PETER 
Good. We'll reach Hispaniola tomorrow. We can escape there. 
MATTY 
But there are only Frenchmen there. 
PETER 
Between us we speak enough-.
MATTY 
I mean hunters. It could be a year before their ships return. 
PETER 
Better to be marooned where we can provide for ourselves freely than prisoners on this ship headed for the gallows! Matty ponders that. [[too much talk]] 
PETER 
If we can get back to Nassau, I'm sure Governor Rogers will hear us out. Be it a month or a year-.
MATTY 
No! We can't hope for mercy without evidence we're forced. 
PETER 
What evidence? Our only witnesses are pirates! 
MATTY 
I seen it a hundred times at the Old Bailey. A thief is a better witness than no witness. 
PETER 
We can't stay with these villains. 
MATTY 
We must. What if Rackam gets strung up before we can reach the governor? They'll hang them all, including Anne! Who will testify for us? For all her faults, Peter, she won't lie about that. 
PETER 
Won't she? You underestimate Anne. 
MATTY 
And Phoenix won't lie. He owes me too much. 
PETER 
These aren't our friends, Matty. They'll do us no favors. 
MATTY 
We testify for them, they testify for us. 
PETER 
You want us to lie to Admiralty for them? 
MATTY 
Not to Admiralty. To them. 
PETER 
And in the meantime we do Calico Jack's bidding at the wrecks and then escape? 
MATTY 
You said it yourself. They always let you go in the end, once they have what they want from you. We just have to hurry to reach the Admiralty when they do. 
PETER 
That's if we make it to the wrecks alive. Matty grows silent. Peter starts kissing her neck. 
MATTY 
Then maybe we should try to escape sooner. Somewhere closer to people who can bring us to authorities. If we can escape Rackam and arrange his capture, it's our best chance to escape the noose. 
Peter nods and continues to kiss her. A pounding on the door startles them. Capitana stirs. 
RACKAM (O.S.) 
Get out here, Hines. 
ANNE (O.S.) 
I'm coming in, Matty. [[PART 3: end act 2 -start Act 3]] 

EXT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -DAY 
Under a dry, overcast sky, Anne waits, excited, on deck. 
Matty steps out, looking beautiful in a white frilly dress. 
Peter, in fresh clothes, gawks at her from the opposite end at the bow with Rackam. 
Between them, Rackam's crew stand in two straightish lines at disheveled attention, with cutlasses, swords and knives held stiffly in front of them, military style. 
RACKAM 
Carry. Sabers! 
Most of the men rest their blades on their shoulders. Others look around, sloppily mimick. 
RACKAM 
Present! Some place their weapons in front of them. Andy and a few others lift their weapons straight up. 
WELSHMAN 
Not yet! 
ANDY 
Sorry. 
DOBBINS 
You have to wait for him to say-.
RACKAM 
Arch! Sabers! All the men raise and cross their weapons to make an arch. Anne pushes Matty forward. 
Rackam shoves Peter toward her. Cautious, each moves under the sorry-looking arch. Peter can't take his eyes off Matty. 
RACKAM 
In honor of this occasion, I present to all... 
When they meet in the middle, Peter and Matty ignore everything around them, gaze into each other's eyes. 
Rackam gestures to the main mast where Phoenix and Brown hoist a black flag. 
RACKAM 
...a symbol for a new age! 
The crew drop their arch, shout and throw their hats up in the air just as Matty and Peter are about to kiss. 
They look up. The black flag displays a smiling skull and two crossed cutlasses. 
Matty looks at Peter with sad eyes and whispers under the cheers. 
MATTY 
It'll never end, will it? Peter tries to reassure her with a tight hug. 
MATTY 
Every time we find happiness, they'll find something else. We'll never find a church, never have a home, a life... For the first time, Matty lets tears roll. Corny notices their exchange and points. 
GUNNER CORNY 
We've made them so happy she's crying, captain! Rackam turns to look. 
RACKAM 
Them best be tears of joy, lass. We've grand plans for you and your groom. 
He nods to a couple of pirates who respond by grabbing Peter's arms and pulling him away from Matty. Confused and betrayed, Matty latches on. Anne runs across to Jack. 
ANNE 
What's this, Jack? 
MATTY 
Let him go, ya bastards. 
RACKAM 
Only bastard I see is you, Miss Read. 
PETER 
You go too far, Rackam. You always go too far. 
RACKAM 
Ay, it's me downfall. Rackam winks at Anne and approaches Matty. Pirates restrain her while Peter is dragged off toward the bow with great protest. 
RACKAM 
Anne told me your sad story, Mary. 
Matty shoots Anne a look that causes Anne to pout with remorse. 
RACKAM 
Most important thing I know about ye is what I saw with me own eyes. Any man who could best Wright would have my respect. Any woman...well. You deserve more than my respect. 
He moves to touch her face. She spits in his. He wipes it away. 
RACKAM 
Don't flatter yourself, Read. I've better use for you than a quick roll. (reconsiders) Forsooth, methinks you've the fire to match me Anne... 
Matty knees Rackam, sending him back a bit. 
He comes up with a back hand that knocks her and those restraining her backward. 
As she regains her footing, Rackam storms up to her and tugs at her dress, better exposing her very white cleavage. 
RACKAM 
THIS is what you'll do from now on, Read... If you want your man to make it to the wrecks alive, you'll help us get there. You'll help us get supplies and victuals, and you'll help us fight off the authorities. 
Anne marches up to Rackam and tries to pull him away. 
ANNE 
Leave her be--
Rackam doesn't look away from Matty, but he reaches back and grabs Anne's hair violently, pulls her up for a three-way pow-wow, looking into both their eyes. 
RACKAM 
What we have here is a little show for the laddies. Anne's me lass, and you're just the bitch who does what I say. Got it? Matty nods. Anne grins slightly. Matty catches it. 
RACKAM 
You'll use your assets... He looks at her breasts. Then at Anne's. 
RACKAM 
Both of ye. And you'll be first with the sword in each boarding party. 
MATTY 
And why would I-.
RACKAM 
BECAUSE...you want your man alive each night, don't ya? Rackam lets go and turns around. He points up. Matty looks. Her heart drops. Tied at the wrists and ankles, Peter dangles from a rope 
attached to a boom. Pirates heave him upward and swing him out over the water on the boom. 
[[ INCLUDE: By torturing Peter & making an example of him, they are also prepared to ransom him -he is a Liet. Governor though NONE know he is Baronet -UNLESS -Matty tells them they cannot misuse him like this, which ends up only fueling them further & giving them ideas...? ]] 
[[ Peter is a pawn to control Matty & the admiralty -anyone attacks them, they have a Lt. Governor to barter with 
solve all the following with V.O.? ]] 
MATTY 
Stop it! I'll do whatever you want, Jack. Just don't... She locks eyes with Peter, apologizing. 
RACKAM 
KEEL HAUL HIM, LADDIES! Suddenly Peter drops and disappears into the water. 
MATTY 
Nooo! Anne grabs Rackam. 
ANNE 
Stop it, Jack. What the hell!? You'll kill him. 
RACKAM 
I don't consult with you on everything, Anne. Angry, Anne spins Jack to face her. Matty spins him back. 
MATTY 
I thought you wanted him to dive the wrecks! You blackguard-.
RACKAM 
You busted his shoulder. If he lives, we know he'll survive anything. 
ANNE 
If he doesn't? 
RACKAM 
Corny gets his bunk back. And Matty here can share it with him. 
ANNE 
If you want me to continue to share yours, you'll consult with me before you 
make any more decisions, captain. 
Anne walks off in a huff. 
Rackam calmly leads Matty to the stern where pirates guide the rope still attached to Peter somewhere under the ship. 

UNDERWATER 
Peter struggles under the swift-moving keel of the boat, which tears at his clothes and skin as it runs over him. His eyes bulge as he holds his breath. 

ON DECK 
Matty frantically looks to see where Peter might emerge. It seems to take forever as she looks back and forth angrily from Rackam and hopefully to the water. 
The rope goes taut and Peter's limp, shredded body appears in the ship's wake. 
Matty moves to help the pirates pull him up quickly. 

MOMENTS LATER 
Peter is laid out, unconscious, on the poop deck. 
Matty clears everyone away. She pushes on his stomach, frantic to get him breathing. 
MATTY 
Wake up, dammit, Peter. Don't you die! 
Crying hysterically, she embraces him, burying her face next to his. Without moving, Peter whispers in her ear. 
PETER 
Don't react, Matty. I'm fine. Matty keeps her stunned face hidden, continues to cover him. 
MATTY 
I'm sorry, Peter. I'm so sorry. 
PETER 
Get them to take me back to the cabin. Matty kisses his cheek then sits up. Peter starts to choke up sea water and she rolls him to his side. 
He feigns unconsciousness. 
MATTY 
He's breathing! Help me get him to the cabin! The pirates look to Jack for approval. He nods. The pirates carry Peter off. 

INT. CABIN -DAY 
Matty slams the door as soon as the pirates leave. She runs to Peter's side. 
He sits up quickly and kisses her. 
MATTY 
You're sure you're alright? 
Peter kisses her again, but she's distracted by the damage to his back. His clothes and skin are scraped away in several places. 
PETER 
I'll live. 
MATTY 
You're damn right you will. She stands and goes to the door, opens it. 
MATTY 
Get in here, Anne! 

LATER 
Contrite, Anne helps Matty tend to Peter's wounds as he sleeps on his stomach. A bottle of liquor is half empty next to the bunk. 
MATTY 
Now you see the kind of man you've taken up with, Anne? 
ANNE 
(to Peter) I'm sorry he did this to you. I didn't know-.
MATTY 
Now you do. And it's time this foolishness stopped. At first opportunity, we'll escape and you're coming with us. You'll testify that we were forced... 
Anne's countenance shifts instantly. 
ANNE 
Will I, now? 
She stands and moves toward the door. 
ANNE 
I've decided you can keep these quarters, Matty. Enjoy your little honeymoon. 
MATTY 
You've decided? 
ANNE 
Ay. But when we're on the account, you'll be as profligate as any, because you'll remember that Mr. Hines here is under guard of men with orders to slay him if there's even a hint of mutiny from you. 
Matty, incredulous, stares at Anne. 
ANNE 
Ya see it now? I'm the one told him to scare the shite out of ya. But it's me you ought fear, Matty. 
MATTY 
Does the idea of gold really mean so much to you, Anne, that you'd betray your friend? 
ANNE 
Friend! Since the day I met you you've been trying to get me to do things your way. You're the height of hypocrisy Miss Mary Read. No one can tell you what to do your whole life, but soon as you meet me ya act as if... Hell's bells... You're not me mum! And you'll not tell me what to do again. Lest you're lookin' for a keel.haulin' yourself. 
Anne exits with a slam. 
Peter awakens with a start. 

MONTAGE -RACKAM ON THE ACCOUNT 
[[ add Dorothy Thomas & Frenchmen scenes ]] 
--Rackam's sloop approaches a frightened merchant crew 
--Anne, dressed in men's clothes but with plenty of cleavage revealed, leads the boarding party with gusto 
--Rackam points at Peter tied up as if ready to be keel-hauled again, then pushes Matty into the fray 
--Anne shoves Matty to be first aboard another boarding party, forcing her at the point of her cutlass to be more active and scream like a banshee to frighten the victims 
--Alone at night, Matty and Peter make love as if it's their last chance 
--Matty leads a boarding party onto a merchant sloop 
--Matty grabs the face of a frightened captain and points with her sword up at Peter tied up to indicate the victim's fate if he doesn't cooperate 
--A schooner clearly named "Neptune" tries to escape Rackam's faster sloop 

EXT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -DAY 
Matty watches from the main mast next to where Peter is secured -she's mesmerized by the schooner's name. 
MATTY 
Neptune. ÕTis a sign, Peter. Peter is wary. 
She kisses his cheek then goes to join Anne and the others as they ready the plank to cross over. Phoenix, nearby as ever, confides to Peter. 
PHOENIX 
That lad spent more time with Neptune than anyone else. Peter looks at him like he's crazy. 
PHOENIX 
Ay. Since the day we crossed the line and I put on them robes pretendin' to be Neptunus Rex for the ceremony, Matty volunteered to clean the head pipes just so's he could hang off the bow sprit... Õtwas our figurehead, ya see. 
Peter nods. He knows. 
PHOENIX 
Heard him conversin' with the old god as if it were his dad. 
Phoenix cocks his head at Matty as she readies to cross the plank to the schooner. 
PHOENIX 
Seems to me ol' Neptune answered sometimes by the way the boy come up all giddy and starstruck. (squints at Matty) Always was something fishy 'bout that lad. 
PETER 
Perhaps because he was a she? Phoenix looks at him funny, then realizes, laughs and nods. 
Matty leads the boarding party across the plank, frightening poor CAPTAIN SPENLOW nearly to death as she approaches. 

EXT. OFFICER'S CABIN -NIGHT 
Matty enters, exhausted, looks for Peter -not there. The door opens and Gunny enters. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Ay right, decided to stay and keep me company have ye, lass? He paws at her waist. Mistake. In about 2 seconds Matty has him pinned against the door with his arm behind his back. 
MATTY 
Where's me husband, gunner? 
He tries to look at her with a questioning glance. She ratchets his arm up. He screams in painful protest. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Captain sent him over to the Neptune, ya bloody bitch. Matty digs her elbow into his back. He yells. 
MATTY 
What are you yappin' about? We let that prize go. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Nay! Captain's decided we need an enterprise of ships and men. He's-.
Matty lets loose and shoves him away from the door, slamming it as she exits. 

EXT. RACKAM'S SLOOP -DECK -NIGHT 
Anne and Rackam stand at the rail looking out over the water in a romantic embrace. 
Matty spots Andy at the helm, half asleep. 
MATTY 
Andy! Where's Peter? Andy shakes off the sleep and looks at her. He hesitates. 
MATTY 
Tell me if you value your life. Andy nods his head toward the nearby anchored schooner. 
NEPTUNE 
Phoenix and Brown stand guard over where Peter is tied to the bowsprit in the fashion of a figurehead. 


RACKAM'S SLOOP 
[[ REWRITE ALL -pace needs to quicken to fever pitch for climax -back & forth with the privateers hunting them down? 
Most dialogue should occur earlier than this point if it wraps up unresolved issues/subplots ]] 
With murderous hate... 
MATTY 
When will it stop? 
RACKAM 
It never stops, Miss Read. Not for the faithful. 
[[ rewrite -handle w/V.O.? ... ]] 
Matty puzzles over that and waits for explanation. RACKAM You think us fools without a purpose, don't you? Matty's eyes are glued to Peter who appears half dead. 
RACKAM He's been nodding off like that all night. Lazy bastard doesn't do anything all day, and now he can't stay awake. 
Matty appears ready to pounce. Her fingers twitch toward her sword. 
ANNE Eh-eh-eh, Matty. Anything happens to us, Mr. Fennick and Mr. Brown will cut the line what keeps your Peter from dropping like a rock. 
RACKAM You see, Miss Read... We've grand plans for that schooner, and for the wrecks...and for you! 
Rackam lets go of Anne and turns to fully face Matty. 
RACKAM While you and your lover boy over there float around with nothing but your own wants and needs to consider, I've been fighting a righteous war. Even while you were off fighting the French, I was fighting a much bigger, much more important war. 
ANNE Captain Spenlow there has brought us news of the latest uprising in Scotland. The Jacobites are making a move, and they're winning. 
Spenlow sits forlorn upon his own forecastle. 
Matty glances at him, then back to Peter. 
[[ move this to ACT 1 during pirating montage? 
Rackam reaches and makes her turn to look at him. 
RACKAM We're about to put a new king upon the throne, Read. ÕTis history we write with our swords. 
MATTY You fancy yourself so important as that, Jack? You think that terrorizing a few merchants and fishermen earns you a spot in history for the lost cause of a Catholic Pretender? 
RACKAM (angry) We'll see a Stuart on the throne of England! Mark my words! 
MATTY You think some little skirmish in Scotland changes anything? And you think I care a flip about your politics? ]] 
Matty gets in Rackam's face. 
MATTY 
I'll not lift my sword for you again, Jack. It's over. You've done your worst. We'll not obey your orders. 
Matty looks past him to Anne who looks ready to breathe fire. 
MATTY 
That goes for your little bitch too. 
Rackam catches Matty off guard with a punch in the stomach. 
It nearly knocks her off her feet, but Matty recovers, ready to charge. 
Andy is there instantly to catch her and stop her. She struggles until he convinces her to look across at Peter. 
Jamaica Brown stands over the bowsprit lines, arm raised ready to cut the line that holds Peter above the water. 
Matty stops struggling and makes Andy let go of her, gestures that she'll stay calm. 
Lie. She charges Rackam, this time held back Andy and three others. 
MATTY 
(cries, screams) Do him no harm, or I'll murder you in your sleep. Let us go our way. You go yours. 
Anne steps calmly up to Matty with a paper in her hands. She shows it to Matty. 
ANNE 
Too late, Matty. Governor Rogers knows you came with us willingly-.
MATTY 
Willingly!? 
ANNE 
Says so right here, declaring us all, by name, "pirates and enemies to the Crown of Great Britain." 
She turns the page over and shows it to Matty. 
ANNE 
And the Stuarts claim victory in the north. We're winning our war, Matty, and you're just another casualty. 
Matty calms herself but the others don't let her go. 
MATTY 
(pleads, tearful) Jack. Put me on the schooner. Let me be with him if you'll make him suffer so much. 
Rackam considers. Anne is about to chide him as he relents. [[PART 3: end act 3 -start Act 4]] 
EXT. NEPTUNE SCHOONER -NIGHT 
Peter and Matty lie asleep among thick coiled ropes on deck. Capitana is curled up with them. 
Phoenix and Brown snore away close by. 

EXT. CARIBBEAN SEA -DAY 
Rackam's black flag flaps in the wind. SUPER: "Port Maria, Jamaica" 
NEPTUNE DECK 
A loud boom awakens Matty and Peter. 
MATTY 
What the--? Another boom shakes the deck. 
PETER 
We're under attack. 
They look out to the open water. 
The familiar blue and gold-trimmed Marianne flies an English flag, approaches Rackam's sloop, turns for another broadside cannon blast. 


ON RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Corny shouts to gunners. 
GUNNER CORNY 
Broadside when ready! 
A cannon immediately blasts, hurling a cannonball at Bondavais. 
ON THE MARIANNE 
Bondavais calmly oversees the battle from a vantage behind the helm. He takes out his spyglass. Bondavais SCOPES Matty and Peter aboard the schooner. He lowers the glass, disappointed. 
BONDAVAIS 
Merde. 

RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Matty spots the Marianne and runs to the Neptune's rail. Peter follows. 
MATTY 
We're outgunned, Jack. We have to surrender. 
RACKAM 
To a Frenchman? Not likely. 
Matty is ready to argue when another boom followed by a loud CRACK draws everyone's attention. 
MARIANNE 
The main mast cracks. Sails, lines and splinters crash dangerously around Bondavais and his crew. 
Among the crew...James. 

whip at him that falls in the water]] Bondavais runs to the rail and shouts to Matty. 
BONDAVAIS 
You are a vision, Mademoiselle. I pray these barbarians treat you well. Rackam points to Matty and shouts back 
RACKAM 
Haven't you heard, Frenchy? Mary Read is with us. Go back to your stinking homeland. 
Bondavais is ready to shout back when another blast from Rackam's sloop strikes his deck. 
With the wind in their sails, both the Neptune and Rackam's sloop quickly move past the crippled Marianne. 


RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Matty turns away from Rackam's grip and from Bondavais' sight. 
MARIANNE 
Bondavais is defeated. 
BONDAVAIS 
Adieu, Maria de Cavalerist. 


EXT. POINT NEGRIL SHALLOWS -DAY 
"Point Negril, Jamaica" 
Rackham and some of his men laze in the sun, drunk and aimless. 
HEAD LOGGER (O.S.) 
Hoy! Any Englishmen, aboard? 
Andy, the only one sober enough to stand, steps up from the helm for a vantage to look down. 
A motley crew of 9 LOGGERS, some familiar from Bellamy's old crew, wave from a carved-out canoe similar to the Bellamy's. 
Andy registers recognition and waves back. 
HEAD LOGGER 
Be this the sloop what carried our Pierce Wright to these waters? Andy thinks what to say and puts a "wait a sec" finger up. He dashes over to Rackam who is vaguely aware. 
ANDY 
Cap, there's a...periagua full of Baymen starboard. They're looking for Mr. Wright. Rackam laughs. 
RACKAM 
Not likely to find 'im now, is they? He focuses enough to see the worried look on Andy's face. 
RACKAM 
Oh, now, lad. No frettin'. Just call 'em aboard and we'll make nice. Put a little Madeira or whatever we've got in their bellies. Soften the blow... 
Andy shrugs and goes back to the rail... 

LATER 
The burly loggers drop their weapons on the deck as each climbs aboard over the rail. 
The last is the head logger, who bears two very large jars. 
HEAD LOGGER 
We was hopin' to find some English friendlies to share these with. 
Rackam clings to the mast to keep his footing and appear less drunk than he is. 
RACKAM 
We was just hopin' some friendlies would come along hopin' that! 
They all laugh, like old friends and Rackam leads them down the forecastle to partake. 
RACKAM 
(to Andy) Call the boys! And get Read over here. See if any take a liking to her. Haven't seen our lieutenant-governor riled up much lately. 
Andy stares with contempt as Rackam disappears into the shadows below. 
EXT. NEPTUNE -NIGHT 
A few dim lanterns on deck. Near the helm, Peter's hands are tied by rope. 
Phoenix stands guard over him with Brown. The two clink cups from their share of rum, taunting thirsty Peter. 
Across the deck, Spenlow and his crew, along with his wife and two small children, sit quietly, also tied by rope. 

ON RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Lit up with lamps, the deck is alive with carousing pirates and loggers. 
With Andy at the helm, Matty puffs her pipe, watches Peter across the water. 
Rackam steps up to the helm. 
RACKAM 
Would be a shame to see anyone hurt. Rackam blows his cigar smoke in her face. Matty doesn't flinch. 
MATTY 
There be many leagues from here to Florida, Jack. 
RACKAM 
Captain Rackam to you, Read. 
MATTY 
Well, captain, every privateer in these waters is gunning for you. If you could 
read, you'd know Rogers has sent a fleet of privateers in chase of ye. 
RACKAM 
Us, Read. They chase us. And it's your job to make sure none get too close. I'll not 
be strung up in a gibbet a-sun-drying. 
(puffs more smoke) 
If I get another whiff of those stinking French guns, we'll all go merrily to hell 
together in a blaze. 
Rackam holds up his cigar and points to the powder keg in the hold at the bottom of the steps. 
Andy, behind them, is alarmed by what he overhears. He slips away to go belowdecks. Anne saunters up to Rackam. Matty storms off up to the poop deck. 
ANNE 
Where are you off to, Matty? You look so terribly serious. 
MATTY 
Someone has to be. 
Matty stumbles when the sloop is rocked by a cannon blast that strikes water near the bow. Andy runs up from below to see what's happened. Everyone looks into the darkness. FLASH. Another cannon 
blast cracks the pirates' horizontal main boom. 
Familiar metal grenados come flying onto the deck as men shout from all directions. Many pirates are felled by a barrage of blasts and bullets. 
ON THE NEPTUNE 
Peter shouts for Matty unheard over the battle's din. 
RACKAM'S SLOOP 
[[ Rogers is with Barnet ]] 
Matty rushes past falling men and sees an unexploded grenado land nearby. She takes cover as it explodes. 
MATTY 
It's Captain Barnet. 
The ill-repaired tiger figurehead comes into focus out of the thickness of night and smoke. 
Matty takes out her pistol and searches the decks. She sees Anne pull a cutlass from a dead pirate. 
[[ this is where Matty should grab Anne to try to hold her back .but of course there's a pile of weapons at the rail at Anne's disposal ]] 
MATTY 
Where's Jack? Anne glances around, unsure. Matty spots Rackam and others -they run down to the hold. She goes after them when she hears a shout from the Neptune. 

NEPTUNE 
Phoenix holds his musket at Peter's chest. 


RACKAM'S SLOOP 
[[ Matty nearly shoots Anne (the bad guy all along) & itÕs why sheÕs in fighting mode -missing dialogue!!! 
--Climactic confrontation -Matty & Anne (the real bad guy) ]] 
Barnet and his men lay a plank across from the Tyger. 
[[ Rogers is aboard the Tyger ]] 
Matty looks to Peter. He shakes his head, unsure what to do. Matty nods sadly and runs to receive the boarding privateers. Barnet and his men swarm Rackam's sloop. 
Andy valiantly tries to hold the helm, but eventually throws 
down his cutlass and jumps down to the hold with Rackam. Matty fights off several attackers and looks around to see only Anne fighting with men who are hesitant to take on a woman. 
[[ belowdecks the Baymen try to row the disabled sloop out of the shoals -a few of Barnet's men fall to the water as the vessels separate, but they failed to cut the anchor & are stopped violently from escaping ]] 
[[ Dobbins fights with them with vigor ]] 
Barnet nearly catches Matty off balance from behind. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
Mary Read, you'll hang for your piracies! 
Barnet stalks her with a vengeance, using two hands to hold his sword, disadvantaged by the missing fingers on one hand. 
Matty desperately fights off Barnet while shouting down to unseen pirates belowdecks 
MATTY Come up and fight like men! 

IN THE HOLD 
Rackam desperately tries to light a match and shouts back 
RACKAM 
I'm blowing us all to hell! 

ON DECK 
Matty points down with her pistol, still blade to blade with Barnet, and shouts to Rackam in his feathery hat. 
MATTY 
I've been saving this for you a long time, Jack. 
Within Matty's sight, Jack takes his cigar out of his mouth. He closes his eyes and moves to flick the cigar into the barrel. 
Matty shoots into the hold just as Barnet blindsides her with strike that cuts deep into her arm. 
NEPTUNE 
Peter tries to push away from Phoenix and Brown. 
PETER 
Matty! 


RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Matty rolls to her feet and goes one on one with Barnet. She gains the advantage, ready to deliver a death blow to Barnet. 
NEPTUNE 
Peter frees himself from Brown to run to the rail. He shouts. 
PETER 
No! Matty. Don't do it... 


RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Matty hesitates, looks at Peter. 
NEPTUNE 
Phoenix aims the musket at Peter. A loud SHOT. 


RACKAM'S SLOOP 
Momentarily horrified, Matty realizes her sword has been shot 
from her hand. She looks to see Rogers standing with smoking pistol aboard the Tyger. 
Barnet's men catch her as she collapses to her knees. The commotion distracts Anne. 
Barnet's men overcome her too. From the hold, Corny cries out. 
GUNNER CORNY (O.S.) 
Read! You've struck him down, you bloody fool. He's a-dyin'! 
Matty becomes stoic as Barnet and his men pin her to the deck and place irons on her wrists and ankles. She stares blankly toward Peter until she's physically forced to face the other way and see... 
Barnet's men lead Corny and the Sailing Master out of the hold, carrying mortally wounded Andy. 
Andy looks at Matty and smiles weakly. 
ANDY 
I doused the powder, Matty. He'll not blow us to hell. Matty nods tearfully. Andy dies. Matty is devastated to see Rackam, a pistol wound to his thigh, 
limp out with the aid of the African and Welshman. Anne struggles to get to Rackam. 
CAPTAIN BARNET 
It's the gibbet for you, Calico Jack. 
RACKAM We've a right to privateer for King James as much as you do for King George. Ain't that right, Anne? We'll not hang. Tell him, Anne! 
Anne spits at Rackam. 
ANNE Had you fought like a man, Jack, you need not now hang like a dog. 
Matty grins slightly as she's whisked roughly away by Barnet's men. 

INT. JAMAICA ADMIRALTY COURT -DAY 
Matty and Anne, in tattered, filthy dresses, drag their chained bare feet along the filthy floor, led by the polished boots of royal guards through a massive crowd of onlookers. 
[[ Use V.O. to clarify that the Court saw to it that all of Matty's pirate witnesses were eliminated 2 weeks before her own trial .but at least Peter was acquitted at the scene 
Even in death, Rackam ruins everything for Matty -he was her best witness ]] 
Near the bar (a long rail) Bondavais and Barnet stand amidst the recent victims: Dorothy Thomas, Spenlow, the Frenchmen. 
Among the packed room of spectators: Peter, James and Rogers. 
HIS EXCELLENCY (V.O.) 
You John "Calico Jack" Rackam, George Fetherston, Richard Corner, John 
Davies, John Howell... 

MORPH TO GALLOWS 
Five pairs of pirate shoes dance in the air while dangling from gallows. 

BACK TO ADMIRALTY COURT 
The filthy soles of Matty's and Anne's bare feet are exposed to the crowd as they are forced to their knees at the bar. 
HIS EXCELLENCY (V.O.) 
...Patrick Carty, Thomas Earl, James Dobbins, and Noah Harwood... 
MORPH TO GALLOWS 
Four more pirate feet dangle, lifeless. 

BACK TO ADMIRALTY COURT 
His Excellency bangs his gavel to hush the crowd. 
HIS EXCELLENCY (V.O.) 
...And you Thomas Brown, and John Fennick, alias Phoenix... 

MORPH TO GALLOWS 
Brown's two bare feet dangle, and Phoenix's peg leg drops to the ground from Phoenix's lifeless body. 
HIS EXCELLENCY (V.O.) 
...are to go from hence to the place from whence you came, and from thence to the 
place of execution, where each of you are to be hanged by the neck till you are 
severally dead. 

MORPH TO METAL SMITH 
A metal cage (gibbet) is hammered into the shape of a man. Rackam's feathered tricorn lies nearby. 
HIS EXCELLENCY (V.O.) 
And God of His infinite mercy be merciful to every one of your souls. 

BACK TO ADMIRALTY COURT 
Several wigged men sit behind an ornate desk. The feather cap of HIS EXCELLENCY, the Governor of Jamaica, bobs up and down as he addresses Matty and Anne knelt before the bar. 
HIS EXCELLENCY 
...The court has unanimously found you, both of you... Matty glances up at him, at Anne, then back to the floor... 
HIS EXCELLENCY 
...guilty of the piracies, robberies and felonies charged against you. The crowd looks on with hungry interest. 
HIS EXCELLENCY 
Have either of you anything to say or offer why sentence of death should not pass upon you for these said offenses? 
With her head down, Matty doesn't move. 
Anne defiantly spits at the wigged men, unable to reach them. 
ANNE 
You've done your worst, hangin' the brave men of Calico Jack's crew. 'Twas my own choice to join them, and I'd do it again. 
She nudges Matty, who doesn't respond. 
ANNE 
But 'tis a miscarriage of justice to send the valiant Mary Read to her doom. No more brave or noble a person, man or woman, there be to sail these waters. 
HIS EXCELLENCY 
(unimpressed) You, Mary Read, alias Mathias, and Anne Bonny, alias Bonn, are to go from hence to the place from whence you came, and from thence to the place of execution, where you shall be severally hanged by the neck till you are severally dead. 
Anne grabs Matty's arm. 
HIS EXCELLENCY 
And God of His infinite mercy be merciful to you both. 
Matty seems to have heard him for the first time. 
MATTY 
(timidly, barely audible) Both? You keep saying both. 
The BAILIFF moves to strike Matty, but His Excellency halts him with a gesture. 
HIS EXCELLENCY 
What say you? 
MATTY 
(in a stronger voice) Surely more than two shall die. 
HIS EXCELLENCY 
Do you make threats to this court? Matty slowly looks up to His Excellency and shakes her head. 
MATTY 
No, governor... I speak of the child I carry in my belly. Peter's eyes go wide. The entire courtroom erupts with gasps, murmurs and overall 
excitement. Anne turns to her, incredulous. Before His Excellency can respond, Anne proclaims. 
ANNE 
I too am quick with child, your Excellency. Anne stands before the bailiff can stop her. 
ANNE 
You cannot slay an innocent! The entire courtroom moves noisily to their feet. His Excellency sighs, exasperated. 
ANNE (V.O.) 
My father will implore the governor to release us both, Matty. 
[[Matty asks if she really is pregnant -Anne vows she will be by the end of the year if she isn't already -implying she'll sleep with the guard or whoever she must]] 

INT. MATTY'S JAIL CELL -DAY 
A rat runs in the shadows. 
ANNE (O.S.) 
You'll see, Matty. By tomorrow, we'll be on a ship to America. 
Matty, depressed, sits amidst straw and filth. 

INT. ANNE'S JAIL CELL -DAY 
Anne, from her adjacent cell, watches Matty through iron bars, concerned. 
ANNE 
You have to eat. Gain your strength so you can make the journey. 
Matty looks at the dish of mush on which a roach feasts, then looks off into space. 
ANNE 
Even now they're making arrangements for our reprieve. I promise. 
Matty looks out the high window to the sky. 
ANNE 
If not for you, for the baby, Matty. You love your baby, Matty, don't you? For 
Peter's sake, you must... 
Matty looks at Anne, then at the dish. She picks it up and flicks a roach and digs her fingers into the slop. 
ANNE 
That's it, Matty. Before you know it, we'll be eating from porcelain at my father's 
estate in Carolina. 
[[ V.O. to explain how Anne's father disowns her but Rogers .in gratitude to Matty for saving his life -arranges for transportation -they're sentenced to Virginia as indentured servants 4 years each 
Anne is really just a scared little girl -just 17 (actually 20, but whatever) ]] 
[[the moral thing in Mary's speech at the end... 
she's been thinking about Sam Bellamy -by all descriptions he was within sight of shore -can you imagine the lass seeing him die after watching him leave 2 years before? She was so sure she would make it to shore with Peter, but now she knows...she'll never see America. Never finish her story... 
Commissiones Peter to finish her story for her.]] 

INT. MATTY'S JAIL CELL -NIGHT 
Both very pregnant, Matty and Anne lock hands from their corners through the cell bars. 
Matty screams with pain. She squeezes Anne's hand. 
MATTY 
Anne, look at me. You must promise. They lock eyes. 
ANNE 
The baby's coming! (to the guards) Where's the God-damn midwife!? 
Matty pushes in sheer agony. 
ANNE 
You'll be the finest mother ever, Matty. No one could love a baby more than you love this child. 
Matty smiles, still pushing in agony. 
ANNE 
He'll grow to be strong, brave and true in heart, just like his mother. Matty stops pushing. 
ANNE 
We'll both go to Virginia and teach our children to love the freedom they'll have in America when they're grown. 
Matty is very still. The baby cries. 
ANNE 
He's here! Matty... Anne tries to reach for the baby. 
ANNE 
Where's the midwife? Get a doctor! 
The baby's cries fill the dank cells. 
ANNE 
Matty, wake up. Your baby's here. 
Anne can't reach the wailing child. She takes Matty's limp hand. 
ANNE 
I think it's a girl. Matty! She's beautiful. Wake up. She needs you. Anne is frantic and tries shaking Matty. 
ANNE 
I need you, Matty! I can't do this without you. We need you. For Peter, Matty. 
Wake up. Matty! 
The cries of Anne and the baby echo throughout the chambers. 

EXT. AMERICAN FRIGATE -DAY 
A crowd of assorted people look out from the main deck. The frigate sails past the long, straight shores of Florida. Passengers portside begin mumbling, pointing out the burnt-out 
camp where Hampton Court lies at rest beneath the water. 
Anne's red locks blow around her face as she stands staring out at the shores. In her arms, a sleeping baby stirs and fidgets. Anne rocks and shushes him, still staring out. 
ANNE 
We're for America, Johnny boy. There be no need for tears, my wee treasure. She cradles and kisses him, still peering at the water. 

UNDER WATER 
Remnants of the wrecks protrude from the reef. As the frigate sails nearby overhead, sand swirls about and reveals shimmering jewels and gold along the acreage of sand. 
The barnacled Neptune figurehead watches over it all with his light, shimmering eyes. They are valuable sapphires. 
The etched words "MARE LIBERUM" are damaged and illegible. 
[[PART 3: TAG]] 

EXT. ELEUTHERA ISLAND -DAY 
A beautiful sunny day along the coasts of the long, thin island. 
The huge white dog run arthritically along the beach. She barks toward the water. SUPER: "Eleuthera -three years later" Peter treads the water and looks down. 
PETER 
See, Mary? I told you you'd love turtling! A mid-sized turtle's head breaks the surface. 
PETER 
Hold on, Mary! 
Two tiny hands clasp the front of the turtle shell. Half-naked little MARY (3) takes a deep breath. She laughs hysterically. 
LITTLE MARY 
Look, Daddy! I didn't let go! Peter swims to catch up with Mary. 
PETER 
Mah-ray Lee-be-rum! Swim, Mary! 
Mary laughs and kicks. She lets go of the turtle and reaches for Peter who hugs her tight. 

least one more page -up to 10 more tops 

England to recover his health so badly compromised by the stress of the pirates]] 
FADE OUT. *