We've been here a long time.
I'm well aware.
Are you sure the man is coming?
Mother?
When is the man getting here?
I... I don't know. He's... Soon.
Maybe he doesn't know where we are.
Do you know where we are?
Some place in Missouri.
Sure doesn't look like Philadelphia.
Well, that's a good thing.
And soon enough, we will be with your father in Utah,
in a real town.
We should just keep going all the way to California.
- Like we used to always talk about. - Why don't you read your book?
- I've already read it. - Read it again.
"Oliver Twist's ninth birthday found him a pale, thin child,
somewhat diminutive in stature and decidedly small in circumference."
"But nature or inheritance
had implanted a good, sturdy spirit in Oliver's breast..."
Ms. Rowell?
John Frye from St. Louis.
One and only.
How was the train ride in?
The train ride is difficult to remember as it ended so many hours ago.
Train arrivals out this way can be... unpredictable.
Well, the same with guides as well, I suppose.
You have my fee we agreed upon in our correspondence?
I do. Is this enough to get us to Fort Bridger?
That and what we kill along the way.
You didn't mention a child.
This child... This child is my son, Devin.
I didn't assume it'd matter.
Our agreement is for simple transport to Fort Bridger.
We are to meet a Jim Beckworth and his party there
for the balance of our passage.
I can assure you, Ms. Rowell,
there will be nothing simple about this.
Then I suggest we get started, as we are already running late, thanks to you.
Follow me.
What do you think's out there?
Your father.
Sit still, Robert.
Butts, you feel more like a blacksmith than a doctor.
I am a fuckin' blacksmith.
A-ha!
Knife thief!
Hey! Get back here!
Run, girl, run!
That's it!
Does it look like how you thought?
Well, I hadn't really considered it.
We won't be here long.
What kind of Indians do you think they are?
I don't know.
That's enough!
None of that!
Get back there, back to your own!
We don't want it!
Don't make me!
Well, that won't be necessary, Mr. Frye.
Why don't you go on and let Mr. Beckworth know we've arrived?
Stay close.
- We got a problem. - Where's Mr. Beckworth?
He's left. That's your problem.
- Walter... - He's left?
God damn it, I told you to move them half-dead mules of yours.
They're sittin' in my walkways again.
This is Jim Bridger. It's his establishment.
- Make sure I get that... - We were to meet a Mr. Beckworth here.
He's to guide us to Crooks Springs.
As I was telling your man, you're late in from St. Louis.
We had some weather problems.
Weather's always a problem.
Was gonna be a problem for Beckworth if he waited on you any longer.
What's this?
- Why are these Mormon wagons there? - Excuse me.
Perhaps we would catch up with him.
You tell them if they wanna...
- ...up at that gate. Not there. - I can guide us there.
Mr. Frye, I've said I appreciate...
We need someone with experience in this region. Excuse me.
Mr. Bridger. I'm afraid we need your help.
Step back, friend.
- Perhaps there are other guides. - There's those that know the way.
- Friend. - Whether they'll take that trip...
God damn it.
What?
You all right?
String up the Frenchman.
Well, should we get a doctor?
What for?
Halfway across the plains,
it became clear everything he told us was a fabrication.
Assured us that this was a docile, peaceful trading post.
The end of our worries.
We got a post if you want notifications sent to kin.
I don't know any of Mr. Frye's details.
He came into my employ after leaving Boston.
We never delved into the other's family history.
There's a graveyard just beyond the north fence.
I could have a few boys take care of the particulars
if you feel that's an acceptable location.
I guess.
Your boy.
Devin. Devin?
Devin!
I guess the frog ran out of luck.
It's not suitable for us to see.
Look at me. Stay here.
Quite an establishment you have here.
I expected things to improve once we came across more people.
Civilization and civilized are two different words entirely, Ms. Rowell.
I might suggest you head back to Boston where you'll find more of each.
My husband is waiting for us at Crooks Springs.
I suggest maybe he wait a little longer, until early spring.
Weather will have eased then and any luck,
the tribes and Mormons will have stopped their ravaging.
I'm afraid waiting is not an option.
I can't seem to make clear what you're asking for, Ms. Rowell.
I'm asking for a guide to Crooks Springs, as I've said.
This is us.
Crooks Springs.
In between, you got the Wasatch mountain range.
As rocky and hard and high as any you'll ever come across.
In which this time of year is gonna be impassable.
But you're likely to never get to it,
due to what's roaming on all sides.
If outlaws don't murder you,
you got your Utes, Paiutes, Shoshone,
grizzly, wolves... and riled up Mormons.
If our kingdom of God holds strong,
it will cleanse and purify the world from wickedness.
Bear claw.
There's war brewing in this territory.
Brigham Young trying to make his kingdom.
President Buchanan sending in troops to stomp it out.
And every one of them more than content to kill some immigrant mother and child
to keep their grip on what they see as theirs.
Mr. Bridger, I would appreciate you securing my son and I an escort.
Please.
Of course you would, Ms. Rowell.
Where exactly are you taking us?
A fellow who camp's up ahead a bit further.
Bit of an odd stock, but he's no thief or murderer.
Knows this land better than anybody I can think of.
It's Bridger! Coming in!
There must be a better way than our traipsing through this...
I said it's Bridger, God damn it!
Now, hold your shot!
You all right?
Come on.
Stay behind me.
What is this?
Old Injun magic.
Keep away wolves and such.
- Enemies and evil spirits too... - Stay behind me.
if you believe that sort of thing.
Did you not hear me announce?
I heard something.
That's something you heard was me saying don't shoot!
This here is Ms. Sara Rowell.
She's looking for a lead to Crooks Springs.
This is the fella I was telling you about, Isaac...
Isaac Reed.
Mr. Reed.
I ain't got no business in Crooks.
Yes, well... we would be your business.
Five hundred dollars to assist us in reaching my husband there.
- Beckworth figured the trip was worth it. - That's between her and Jim Beckworth.
True. And I only feel obligated to help her fill his role
on account of that crazy Frenchman, Henri, shot her companion.
They shoot Jim Beckworth too?
No, Beckworth left without, due to her being three weeks late.
- Shouldn't be late. - I explained that...
I am aware that our delayed arrival has helped create this situation.
All that matters is whether you are willing
to take on the position of our guide or not.
I ain't got business in Crooks.
- Especially with a woman and a cripple. - Seven hundred and fifty dollars.
Hundred in advance, the balance when we reach my husband in Crooks.
He's got no business in Crooks.
- And I'm not crippled. - Will you be our guide or not?
No.
I said I needed someone capable.
Do not speak unless spoken to.
Her offer is well above the going rate for that distance, Isaac.
Respectfully, Jim...
I don't need your help.
You sure about that?
Yeah. All right, I guess I'll see you around then.
You should try not to get yourself shot so much.
Twelve even should cover it.
We've got some lightly used firearms if you haven't got enough of your own.
We're fully stocked with weapons.
Can't have too many out here.
You've had attacks in the area?
It's been a full season of them.
Wise to travel large.
More is in the group, the likelier not to be set upon.
So, how is it you Mormons divvy up the women?
Two apiece?
Like shoes.
One for each foot.
Twelve a pop, I hear.
Beg your pardon?
Is that true?
My wife, Abish, and I were just wed.
Brother William's wives, Oaklyn and Ezrie,
and Sister Alivan's not betrothed to anyone.
How much for her?
So, you could claim her as your own if it suited you?
And just add her to your stock?
God bless you.
I'll wait for you outside, Jacob.
Twelve a pop.
I did not appreciate your tone back there.
The man didn't want us. Same as Father.
It's not a case of what he did or did not want.
We were paying him for a service. And of course your father wants us.
No, he doesn't.
He never has.
Not true.
Who else should we speak to, Mr. Bridger?
It's a dice roll.
I don't know the lot of them from Adam's dog.
Brutal truth, Ms. Rowell, is as many
would gladly rob you and leave you for dead as get you to Crooks Springs.
Surely, I can trust the military.
Woman alone with all them men out here. I'd recommend against it.
I can take care of myself in such situations.
Even so. They don't head that far west.
They're just here to put the government's boot down on the Mormons and hostiles.
What about them? There.
Mormons?
They carry a whole nother set of problems to which I was referring previous.
It cannot be worse than here.
I like it here.
This really your fort?
Mmm-hmm.
How do you get a fort like this?
You build it.
Devin!
Stay by me.
While I'm sympathetic to your circumstances, Mrs. Rowell,
I've reached my burden's limit caring for my own.
We are not in need of your care.
Just honest companionship along the trail ahead.
And my son is perfectly capable.
I don't doubt that, but I've stated our number
to Fancher's party who we're joining tomorrow evening.
I cannot imagine one additional woman and child would offend him.
I thought God rewarded the open-hearted.
Yes.
My wife has the luxury of thinking with her heart.
- I'm not in a position to do that. - We're always in a position to help.
It took considerable negotiations to get Mr. Fancher to allow our entry.
If we show up with extra bodies, we risk being turned away.
We have three strong horses. We're fully stocked with supplies.
Enough to carry us to Crooks Springs.
Crooks is beyond our destination.
I'll arrange the balance of our travels.
You won't need to concern yourself. We will be no burden.
This new world out here, all I have is a brother's map and God's hand to lead us.
I am willing to put my faith in both, Mr. Pratt. Please.
How's your back for carrying?
Good, sir.
We set out at first light.
Oh, thank you. Thank you, Mr. Pratt.
And thank you for the nudge.
Afraid I don't carry that type of influence.
Yes, well, I'm still grateful.
This doesn't seem to be a world that favors a woman on her own.
- That's why we get married, isn't it? - Yes.
Please, no more.
Let her be!
Enough!
Let her be.
That's enough!
Open your legs.
What did you do?
We have nothing now!
I've had nothing forever.
Come on!
Careless.
Dragging a boy through that.
I parried the same thought.
She is determined.
More for me to trade to Walter Higgins.
I'm afraid you're likely right.
But do me a favor.
Don't tell me about it, so...
I've reached my fill on such things.
Temperature's falling. Grab a blanket for us.
- Find it? - Who are you?
Are you hurt?
You can stay here.
Easy.
What?
Nothing.
- Hey, Fancher. - Yeah?
Somebody's coming.
Mormons.
Mormons? We expecting them?
Eight dollars a wagon. Make sure you get their money.
One step closer to the life I promised you.
You keep speaking of this new life, and I...
I suppose I'm just wondering what my purpose is in it.
Your purpose is your family.
Your husband.
Just as my purpose is you.
Our road to each other was not straight, but we are one now.
And I will not exist without you by my side.
Keep them moving.
Mr. Bridger. Someone here to see you.
Jim Bridger?
Unless you plan on shooting me for it.
Looking for a woman.
Sara Holloway.
Believe she came up this way.
What'd you say her name was?
Holloway. Out of Philadelphia.
Likely traveling with a young boy.
Virgil.
She must be high dollar, hunter such as yourself tracking out this far.
She murdered a man out east.
His family's old money and offering a nice stack of it to whoever can bring her in.
We long way from Philly.
I know where I am, sir.
I picked up the bounty outside of St. Louis.
She was seen there looking for a guide west.
Word is she hooked up with a man named Frye.
Don't believe I've seen her, but I'll be on the lookout.
They give a reason she murdered that feller?
Can always find the right reason to kill somebody.
Good day.
Fancher.
We got riders.
Get my gun.
Who the hell's this? Cavalry?
Nah. Mormon militia.
Mormons.
Them's Nauvoo Legion.
Hello, friend.
Hello back.
- Well, who's in charge of this party? - How can I help you?
- You're in charge? - I am.
All right.
You possess a permit to be on these lands?
Permit?
By proclamation of Governor Brigham Young,
no person shall be allowed to pass through this territory
without a permit provided by a proper officer.
If you don't have a permit,
you and your party need to turn your wagons back east before nightfall.
You're not gonna keep on...
Friend, you can assure Governor Young that we're gonna be out of here first light.
He'll never knew we were here.
I'm afraid it don't work like that.
Governor Young's declared martial law to protect his people
due to you and your kind driving us out of our homes, killing our loved ones,
telling us to find our own place to be.
Well, we found that place.
And, mister, you're standing on it.
As I understand it, I'm standing on land owned by the United States government.
I do not need permission...
A proclamation of Governor Brigham Young. No man shall be...
You keep talking about your proclamation. I do hear you. I'm not deaf.
Only problem is, we have our own proclamation,
and that proclamation says that we take orders from no man,
especially a goddamn Mormon, or that thing there, whatever that is.
So you can tell...
Friend, you want to start shooting, I got 60 guns back here, ready to go.
And I got some real fine shots in the lot.
He's real bored. He ain't been shooting nothing but...
What you been shooting, Cole?
- Field mice. - Field mice.
So you tell your governor, "no thank you" on his permit.
What I would appreciate is some grazing spot for my cattle.
And if your governor is feeling generous,
ask him if he might be able to spare a couple of them wives he's got.
The younger, the better.
Younger, the better.
Now what I'd suggest is you all ride out of here before we shoot you up.
Go. Now.
There ain't no cause for violence, friend.
And we come here as a courtesy.
Good day to you.
Let's go, boys.
Come on.
What do you think?
Every time you ask me that, you already know what I think.
We should have killed them all right now.
Okay. Let's keep a couple extra guns on watch tonight.
Yes, sir.
What about that Mormon party?
Mormons?
Put the Mormon party on the outer perimeter here.
That's why I brought them.
To see if they kill their own.
All right.
We've been traveling for close to five weeks.
Hoping to find better than we had in Missouri.
And you're all off to settle with your Moses?
Brigham Young in Utah. Yes. A rebirth for us all.
Except for Mrs. Rowell and her son.
They're traveling from Boston to Crooks Springs.
Crooks Springs. Yes, to join my husband there.
I knew a Rowell in Illinois.
He traded me this for some work I did on his house.
Jessup Rowell?
Springfield?
It's possible. My husband's family is scattered to the wind.
Excuse me.
And you, Mr. Pratt, you and your wife are from Springfield, is it?
No, Abish's family is from Shelby.
A marriage had been arranged between Abish's sister Eden and myself.
Her sister. What happened?
Pardon me.
Uh...
God... took Eden from us
and delivered my Abish to me just in time for this journey.
You look almost as sickly as I feel, Abish.
Something to tell us?
Sorry.
Can't help but feel like I don't belong.
It should be Eden here, not me.
- That wasn't God's plan. - Perhaps God made a mistake.
We must trust the path God laid out for us whether we understand it or not.
Like a blind man being led by the hand of a stranger.
Until he reaches the cliffs.
And on his way down, he realizes he wasn't blind at all.
He just never thought to open his eyes.
Young man.
If you're hungry.
We hope to have many children.
I grew up with six brothers and sisters.
We have three of our own.
And I believe that's all I'd care to have.
We wouldn't want to speak too soon. I think we'll likely have at least six.
Six?
Three sounds like plenty to me. I'm finding I have my hands full with one.
And what is it that you want to do?
Well, I'd first like to get settled in Salt Lake Valley.
But then I...
- Oh, my God! - Hey!
Dev...
Cover your flanks!
Run them off the ridge!
Get to your own weapon!
Abish!
Abish! Abish!
Get off him!
Get off my... Jacob! Jacob!
Abish!
No!
Papa!
Dear God!
- Come on! - Go! Come on! Move!
Mama! Mama!
Come on!
Get down.
Go!
Run!
Hey!
Go get them!
Get up!
Hunt them down!
I need riders! I need riders!
I need more riders! Go get them!
Let's get 'em, boys!
No witnesses!
Kill them all!
Frank.
Go now and get that body.
Yes, sir.
Mullen! Mullen!
- No! - Come on!
Stay quiet.
Shh.
Be quiet.
Make sure they're all dead.
Finish them all!
Can't find them anywhere.
No tracks. Nothing.
Well, they didn't just vanish.
You tell those Paiutes we will pay them if they track them down.
Go on. Get.
Chief's got no use for oxen.
Wants the cattle and the horses.
Wants the women too.
Nuh-uh. No. I already got two witnesses that are unaccounted for.
I'm not about to turn loose anybody else that can tie us to this.
They won't last long with these Paiutes.
Tell him when he's done with them to make sure they're dead.
You understand?
I don't know if we should stop.
They'll still be looking for us.
Who are those men?
The men with the masks?
Those weren't all Indians.
- I'm cold. - I know.
Can we build a fire?
Not if you wanna live through the night.
Can we have some of your food?
Stay behind me.
Here.
All right.
Eat this. All right?
Can I help you?
Well, in a perfect world, we can help each other.
What is the going rate for bringing in a husband-killer?
We heard you might be looking for a woman.
Traveling with a boy.
Well, what if I told you I know exactly where they are?
What'd that be worth to us?
Boy has a kind of... brace thing on his leg.
That bounty for dead or alive?
Half if dead. But paid either way.
Well, what's she worth?
Fifteen hundred.
That would make your cut 200.
I can't live with that.
- How soon can you take me to her? - Right now.
Then that would make your cut 500.
That's a number I can live with.
Let's go.
Hey, what's your name?
Where are you from?
Say, friend. Where are you from?
Virgil!
I can live with 500, but you can't.
We didn't have to kill him.
Well, he's dead.
So, obviously, we did.
Virgil.
Don't!
Come on. She's got a day's head start.
Let's go!
Sorry, mister. I'm sorry.
Abish!