Ned Hickey - A Hero of Two Revolutions

by John O'Neill

BARON VON RIEDESEL

  (in German accent) General, I wish to question if it is wise to take this route which is a departure from the planned and accustomed trail through Lake George. One day's sailing will take us back to the head of the lake and we can resume from where we diverted in pursuit of the enemy. That overland trail is shorter and well-traveled. Here we enter unknown territory.

  BURGOYNE

  My dear Baron, I expect your Hessian soldiers will have no difficulty in keeping up with my men. When we left Quebec, I vowed publicly that this army would never retreat. I stand by that, sir. We took Ticonderoga from the damned colonials and have pressed on. We will not go back.

  BARON VON RIEDESEL

  At least, let me propose that we send out a scouting party before we commit our troops to the march. We must know more about the terrain and the enemy forces which may defend it.

  BURGOYNE

  (looks around the table, sees nods of agreement)

  Right, gentlemen, if you must be so careful. We will do that. Arrange for a scouting party to look it over but we will not delay. They must return within two days, no more.

  CUT TO:

  EXT. - BRITISH CAMP, ADIRONDACKS - DAY

  An officer calls for volunteers from Ned Hickey's platoon for scouting duty. Ned steps forward. A few others are selected by the sergeant. They move out on the run along with a group of Indians and disappear into the forest.

  FADE OUT

  EXT. - ADIRONDACK FOREST - DAY

  The scouting party moves south along the river. Relatively easy going and no sign of the enemy. Ned works his way up the slope and into the forest. He walks warily, searching for a contact. He feels observed but sees no sign. He stops, puts down his musket, steps away and waits with hands on his head.

  NED HICKEY

  (quietly) I am Irish. I have no quarrel with Americans. I want to fight alongside you not against you. My name is Ned. Come and talk to me.

  Ned waits quietly. He senses an approach from behind but does not turn around. He feels a gun in his back.

  AMERICAN SCOUT

  So, Irish, what game are you playing?

  NED HICKEY

  No game. This is not my kind of sport. I am what I say, an Irishman caught up on the wrong side of this war.

  AMERICAN SCOUT

  It's too easy, Irish. We can't afford to take chances.

  Ned twists, grabs the gun and throws his opponent over his shoulder in a classic wrestling move, takes the rifle and holds it at the neck of a huge man, dressed in deer skins and fur hat.