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A high profile case of betrayal is played out, and CBS reporters are on hand to take you there. Reporters interview the players in the courtroom drama, and learn a little about the strategies that both sides have planned. International diplomacy, military legal code, and espionage play a part, but who is the real villain here? Such an intricate dilemma.
Practically the whole world is convinced of Dreyfus innocence. High placed military officers who have faced danger on the battle front scoff at the type of honor that Dreyfus may claim for himself, and flatley state that Dreyfus betrayed France.
Just as the court is solemnly called to order, gunshots break the silence, and the courtroom is in an explosion of disorder. Has Dreyfus been assassinated? The crowd is again under control, and with the dust cleared, Dreyfus is found a live and the trial begins. The atmosphere is volatile as testamony is denied to the German official. How will Germany, the traditional enemy of France take the slap in the face?
Without the testamony, Dreyfus is found guilty, but his life sentence is cut to only serving 10 years on Devil’s Island. Telegrams from all around the globe pour in to denounce the verdict. Has this trial at the twilight of the 19th centurey signaled the twilight of the French Republic government? CBS reporters provide editorial comment, based on the feelings of the day, that it’s no longer Dreyfus, but France who is now on trial for it’s misconduct in dispensing sham justice.
How will this verdict affect Madam Dreyfus? Will she continue to fight for his freedom? Responding to the worldwide pressure, an astounding turn around in the court case arrives from the highest level of French government.
