In the penultimate episode of Franklin, titled "Begin By Creeping," the series navigates the treacherous path towards peace, set against the backdrop of the British surrender at Yorktown, Virginia, on October 19, 1781. The episode opens with Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La Fayette (Théodore Pellerin), witnessing the defeated British soldiers being taunted by their American adversaries, a poignant moment that signals the turning tide of the war.
John Jay (Ed Stoppard) arrives in France with a mission to aid Benjamin Franklin (Michael Douglas) and John Adams (Eddie Marsan) in their peace negotiations with the British. However, Congress's instruction for Jay to acquiesce to the French is met with resistance, as he and Adams plan to exclude France from any potential deal with Britain. This move raises concerns about America's ingratitude and its impact on the nation's reputation, especially considering the significant support France has provided.
Meanwhile, Monsieur Necker (Vincent Winterhalter) expresses his worries to Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes (Thibault de Montalembert), about the possibility of America and Britain striking a deal that excludes France. Vergennes is confident that they cannot proceed without his support, but Necker's doubts are fueled by the financial strain France faces if they do not profit from their alliance with America.
At Versailles, Jay informs Vergennes of his intentions for peace with Britain. Adams, as usual, shows no interest in France's desires from the deal. Tensions rise, and Benjamin feigns illness, promising Vergennes that no one in the room will betray France, much to Adams and Jay's dismay. When they scold Benjamin for his promise, he collapses, revealing that he has a bladder stone requiring surgery, the success of which is uncertain.
Bancroft (Daniel Mays) meets with Paul Wentworth (Tom Hughes), only to be greeted by Strachey, the Undersecretary to the Home Office (Patrick Kennedy), who is there to negotiate peace with the Americans. Bancroft learns that Wentworth has disappeared, having been captured by Lenoir (Olivier Rabourdin) and brought to Vergennes. Wentworth reveals America's plan to betray the French, prompting Vergennes to send Gerard (Xavier Brossard) to London to ensure France's interests are prioritized.
Temple (Noah Jupe) becomes infatuated with Odette Caillot (Sonia Bunny), attending her performances and sending gifts. Their relationship deepens with a kiss, but Odette's ambition to secure a role in Beaumarchais' new play leads her to spend time with him, culminating in a secret abortion. Temple discovers Odette bedridden, and the revelation of her pregnancy and its tragic end leaves him devastated.
Temple's downward spiral continues as he loses money gambling and is beaten by the winner. He is saved by the King's brother, who invites him to court upon recognizing him as a friend of Gilbert. There, Temple learns of Gerard's trip to England and must inform Benjamin, who realizes they must now play a different game.
Britain's representatives, Oswald (Gary Lewis), Grenville (Jack Archer), and Stauchey, arrive to negotiate with Benjamin, Jay, and Adams. Adams demands unconditional independence and the removal of British troops, while Britain seeks reparations for seized property. Benjamin proposes that Britain cede Canada to America, leading to further arguments and an unsuccessful meeting.
Adams continues to criticize Benjamin's loyalty to France, fearing it will jeopardize America's deal. Meanwhile, Bancroft, under threat from Wentworth, who has escaped, must hand over Temple's forged letter of treason to Adams, who praises Bancroft as a patriot.
"Begin By Creeping" is a masterclass in diplomatic intrigue, showcasing the delicate balance of power and the high-stakes game of alliances during a pivotal moment in history. The episode highlights the personal and political challenges faced by the characters as they navigate the complexities of war, peace, and the struggle for national identity. With its vivid portrayal of historical events and the intricate web of deceit, this episode of Franklin captures the essence of a nation's fight for freedom and the sacrifices made along the way.