Summary:  A potentially deadly illness sneaks up on the youngest Cartwright.  Follow along as, in a moment of true Joe, the family finds themselves racing against time.

Rating:  K  (16,720 words)

 

Breath of Life 

Doctor Paul Martin shut the door to his office carefully and looked around the bustling street before stepping off the sidewalk. Dodging between the traffic, he marvelled at the way the town was growing. Why, there was a time he could remember when it would have been rare to see anyone on the streets at this time of the day, and now there were people everywhere going about their business. He smiled as he thought of all the customers he had coming through his office lately. Not that he enjoyed seeing people sick of course, but that’s what he was here for after all, and it did him good to know that he was able to help others and make a decent living at the same time.

 

As he reached the other side of the street he noticed his friend Ben Cartwright standing outside the Bank and waved to him. He had known Ben from the first days when he had moved to Virginia City and considered him one of his closest friends. He was a man of great integrity and honour and Paul admired the way in which he stood up for what he believed in. He also admired the way he had dealt with the hard knocks that life had thrown in his direction.

 

Three times widowed, Ben had managed to come through it all and still run the most successful ranch in the Territory. Not to mention raising his three sons at the same time. The boys were a great help to him now, but Paul remembered back over the years when they had needed their father’s guidance and support, and Ben had always been there for them. They were three fine boys, and Paul liked nothing better than to visit the Cartwrights at their home to indulge in an excellent meal and conversation with the family.

 

He noticed the youngest of Ben’s sons standing next to him as he approached. Joseph, or Little Joe, as he was known to so many, had a special place in Paul’s heart. He had been one of the first babies that Paul had delivered when he had first arrived in the town twelve years ago, and he had watched his development with a special interest. Joseph had been a difficult birth, for not only had he been a breech birth, but he had also been premature and had given his parents quite a bit of concern at the time. Paul considered the boy was lucky to have made it to be honest, and he remembered holding the tiny infant on the night of his birth and despairing at his chances of survival.

 

But tiny Joseph had beaten all the odds and surprised the doctor and his parents with a tenacious will to live. He had never been what Paul would call a strong child physically, but what he lacked in physical stamina he certainly made up for in sheer will power. Paul had never come across anyone who was as stubborn as this youngster and he smiled as he remembered the many battles he had witnessed between the boy and his father – often when Paul himself had been in attendance for some medical reason.

 

Ben had good cause to worry about that youngest son of his. He had of course experienced his fair share of childhood illnesses along the way, but he had also had his fair share of accidents as well. It seemed like there was never a time when Joseph was completely out of the doctor’s mind, either because he was recovering from some accident or experiencing some illness. No wonder the child looked at him warily whenever he saw him! Paul had noticed a great reluctance on Joseph’s part to have much to do with him, and he really couldn’t blame the boy.

 

‘Hello Ben!’ he said as he shook the rancher’s hand. ‘How are you today? Hello Joe!’ He added smiling at the boy.

 

‘Paul! Good to see you,’ answered Ben and looked at Little Joe meaningfully.

 

‘Hello Doctor Martin,’ said Joe, looking up at the man from under his hat.

 

‘How’s my favourite patient today?’ the doctor asked with a twinkle in his eye.

 

Joe frowned at him. ‘I’m ….. fine,’ he said and turned to his father. ‘Pa, can I …. go down to the …. store now and meet …. Hoss?’

 

‘Of course Joseph, just be sure and tell him I want both of you to meet me at the International House for lunch in half an hour,’ Ben replied. ‘And don’t be late!’ he added as the youngster skipped off. ‘Well Paul, have you time for a drink?’ he asked as he turned back towards his friend.

 

Paul smiled back at him. ‘Don’t mind if I do Ben.’

 

As the two men walked along the sidewalk towards the saloon, Paul observed the boy moving quickly in front of them. His trained eye had noticed a quickness in the child’s breathing and a faltering in his words, and he wondered if everything was alright with the child. Perhaps it was time he looked him over again.

 

He brought up the subject as soon as they were seated with their drinks. ‘How’s Joe Ben?’ he asked.

 

Ben looked at him with his eyebrows raised. ‘Joe? He’s fine. Didn’t he look it to you just now?’

 

Paul took a sip of his drink. ‘To be honest Ben, no he didn’t,’ he replied. ‘Since when has he been breathing like that?’

 

Ben frowned. ‘Like what?’ he asked. ‘I haven’t noticed anything.’

 

‘He seemed to be finding it a bit difficult to get his breath,’ continued the Doctor. ‘Had he been running?’

 

‘No,’ said Ben with a worried expression on his face. ‘Not at all.’ He thought for a moment. ‘I noticed he was clearing his throat quite a bit the other day but he assures me he doesn’t have a cold at all.’

 

Paul shrugged his shoulders. ‘Well it could be nothing. But all the same I wouldn’t like to take any chances with that youngster. You know how hard last winter was for him Ben.’

 

Ben nodded. The boy had one cold after another and seemed to have a lot of breathing problems for a few months. ‘Maybe I’ll bring him over to see you this afternoon and you can give him a check over,’ he suggested.

 

‘I think that’d be a good idea,’ said Paul. ‘Although I don’t think you’ll be too popular suggesting it!’ He laughed. ‘I really don’t think I’m that boy’s favourite person you know!’

 

Ben smiled. ‘Well it’s nothing personal Paul. It’s just that nearly every time he sees you it’s because there’s something wrong with him. He likes you really.’

 

‘Yes I’m sure he does,’ said Paul standing up. ‘Everyone likes someone who constantly comes at them with a thermometer! I’ll see you later on this afternoon if you can drag him over to my office Ben. Good to see you again.’

 

Ben nodded. ‘Thanks Paul, we’ll be there.’ Ben stood up and followed his friend out of the saloon and headed down towards The International House where he was to meet his sons. As he entered the building he smiled to see Adam standing in the corner with a young lady. Since his return from College his eldest son had proven to be quite a catch in the eyes of the young eligible girls of the town, and in their mothers eyes as well. It was unusual for Adam to be seen in such a public place engrossed in conversation with a young lady, as normally he was quite a bit more circumspect than that. This female must be quite special for him to be seen thus.

 

‘Oh hi Pa,’ he said as he saw his father approaching. ‘This is Beatrice Delaney. I don’t think you’ve met each other?’

 

‘No we haven’t,’ said Ben extending his hand to the pretty young lady. ‘Pleased to meet you Beatrice. Are you new in town?’

 

‘Hello Mr Cartwright,’ Beatrice replied. ‘Yes my parents have just bought a partnership in the Grain Store with Mr Harrison. We’re living in the old Fairley Homestead.’ She smiled at Adam who looked a little embarrassed as he felt his father’s eye upon him. ‘Your son has offered to show me around town.’

 

‘Has he?’ said Ben raising his eyebrow at his son and smiling at him. ‘And when would this be happening?’

 

“This afternoon if it’s alright with you Pa,’ said Adam. ‘You don’t need me for anything else after lunch do you?’

 

‘No I can’t think of anything,’ said his father with a twinkle in his eye. He turned as he saw his other two sons enter the room. ‘I’m sure you’ll like our town Beatrice. If you’ll excuse me now I have a luncheon appointment with my three boys.’ He looked at Adam meaningfully. ‘When you’re ready Adam we’ll be in the Dining Room.’

 

Adam nodded. ‘Sure Pa, I’ll be there in a minute,’ he replied, and gave his two brothers a dark look as they noticed who was standing next to him. ‘Excuse me for a moment while I say goodbye to Beatrice.’ He took the young lady by the arm and led her towards the door quickly before either of his brothers could comment.

 

Ben smiled at his son’s retreating back, and hustled his other two sons into the Dining Room. As they seated themselves at a table in the corner, Hoss said with a touch too much innocence to sound genuine. ‘And who was Adam talking to?’

 

‘None of your business,’ said Adam as he seated himself next to his middle brother.

 

‘Looked like she was a bit gone on you older brother!’ declared Hoss with a grin. He liked nothing better than baiting his older brother about his love life, and Little Joe was always quick to follow.

 

‘Adam’s …..sweet on a …..girl!’ he declared with a wicked look in his eye. Ben glanced over at him sharply, as he noticed the hesitation in his words. Perhaps Paul was right! The boy seemed to be breathing somewhat shallowly and needed to take a breath every few words in order to get out a sentence. He resolved to make sure they kept that appointment straight after lunch.

 

Adam glared at both his brothers. ‘Beatrice is no concern of yours!’ he said heatedly.

 

Hoss spluttered into his glass of water. ‘Beatrice!’ he snickered. ‘What kind of name is Beatrice?’

 

‘A …. funny one!’ declared Little Joe.

 

‘I think it’s a lovely name!’ said Adam with a frown.

 

‘Better than Abigail, eh?’ said Hoss with another snicker, and Little Joe joined in gleefully. They all knew to whom Hoss was referring. Abigail Jones, school teacher and general busybody around town had her sights very squarely placed on the oldest Cartwright son, and nothing could seem to convince her that Adam wasn’t in the slightest bit interested in her. He would go to great lengths to avoid any contact with the woman, who was rather priggish and full of her own importance, and hated the ribbing that his two brothers took great delight in indulging themselves in.

 

‘That’s enough boys,’ said Ben. ‘We came here to eat, and I think we should order don’t you?’

 

Adam turned gratefully towards his father and acknowledged the diversion with a grateful smile. ‘Thank you Pa,’ he said. ‘It’s nice to see that someone around here knows what is and isn’t their business.’ He stopped as he caught the look in Ben’s eye. ‘I mean, not that it’s not your…. I mean….’

 

Ben held up his hand and pointed to the menu. ‘Let’s just order,’ he said. ‘Joseph what are you having?’

 

Joe made a face at his father. ‘I don’t …. really feel …..’

 

‘I’ll order for you if you can’t decide,’ said his father with a meaningful look at his youngest son. It was always an ongoing battle between the two of them as to how much the boy ate. Ben felt, and he knew that Paul agreed with him, that Joe never ate enough, and he was always very conscious of trying to get something substantial into him.

 

Joe sighed and looked at the menu in his hand. He searched for something that sounded light and sighed again as he noticed his father looking at him intently. As the waiter approached them he listened to the other orders and then said. ‘Can I just ….. have a little ….. bit of …..’

 

‘Joseph will have the beef stew,’ interrupted his father. ‘Thank you.’ He took the menu out of his son’s hands and noticed as he did so the pout on his face. ‘And you can get that look off your face Joseph,’ he said. ‘Beef stew is good for you.’

 

Joe continued to pout at his father, and sat back in his chair with his arms folded across his chest. Treating me like a baby! He thought. Why does he bother asking if he doesn’t let me say what I want? Don’t want any old beef stew anyway!

 

Ben ignored his son’s mini tantrum and turned towards his middle son again. ‘So Hoss, did you get all the supplies?’ he asked.

 

Throughout the remainder of the meal, the older three Cartwrights ate heartily while Little Joe pushed his food around his plate for most of the time. After the first few bites he had had enough and really didn’t see why he should push himself to eat any more. Unfortunately his father didn’t quite see it that way, and constantly tapped on the edge of his plate to remind him to eat another forkful. Joe sighed dramatically each time and put as little onto his fork as possible.

 

By the time Adam stood up to leave, Joe had eaten about half of what was on his plate and the compromise that he and his father usually reached had been achieved. ‘Have fun …. with … Beatrice!’ he giggled as he stole a look at Hoss.

 

‘Yeah don’t worry older brother, we won’t tell Miss Abigail on ya!’ Hoss added.

 

Adam gave them both a dark look and turned to leave. ‘Thanks for lunch Pa,’ he said over his shoulder. ‘I’ll see you back home later on.’

 

Ben put down his napkin and turned to Hoss. ‘Son could you think of something to do for an hour or so? I’ve got an appointment to keep now and it might take a while.’

 

Hoss grinned at him. ‘Sure thing Pa! I’ve been wanting ta see that new black Charlie’s got down at the Livery Stable. I’ll meet ya there. Come on shortshanks,’ he motioned to his younger brother who stood up to go with him.

 

‘No Joseph, I want you to come with me,’ said his father as he stood and held the boy by the arm.

 

Joe looked up at him surprised. ‘Why? Where are we …. going Pa?’ he asked.

 

‘To see Doctor Martin,’ his father replied as he tightened his grip on the boy’s arm. ‘Come along.’

 

Joe frowned and planted his feet firmly on the floor as he tried to resist his father. ‘Why? I ain’t … sick, and you ….just saw him …. before! Why are …. we going over …. there?’

 

‘Because I want him to take a look at you,’ replied his father as he led him out of the door. ‘Come along.’

 

 

—————

 

 

Paul Martin looked up as the two Cartwrights entered his office, and was immediately struck by the difference in their expressions. ‘Ben! Joseph! Good to see you again!’ he said as he stood up.

 

Ben acknowledged the doctor’s greeting with a nod, and kept his grip on his son’s arm. ‘We’re here to have you take a look at Joseph as we discussed,’ he said.

 

Joe gave his father a dark look. So they had already been talking about him behind his back! He gave the doctor a look that made the man wonder how on earth he was going to be able to examine him when he was like this.

 

‘Fine,’ he said. ‘Joseph would you get up on the examining table please?’ He moved over to get his stethoscope.

 

When Joe didn’t move, his father gave him a slight push towards the table. ‘You heard the doctor Joseph,’ he said. ‘Sit up on the table.’

 

‘I …. ain’t sick!’ Joe declared. ‘Don’t need ….. to see …. him.’

 

‘I didn’t say you were sick son. I just think it would be a good idea for you to have a check up,’ his father answered. ‘Now get up on the table.’ He led the boy towards the examining table and waited for him to move onto it. Joe resisted his father angrily, so after a moment Ben lifted him up under the arms and sat him on the table himself.

 

‘Take off your shirt please Joe,’ said Paul walking over with his stethoscope. ‘I want to listen to your breathing.’

 

‘There ain’t …. nothing wrong ….. with my ….. breathing!’ Joe declared, glaring at both men in front of him. When neither of them answered he sighed and began to slowly undo his buttons. Ben reached over and took the boy’s shirt as he removed it, and then stood back to give Paul room to move.

 

As the doctor put the stethoscope on his chest and listened Joe sat motionless, his face showing his displeasure at what was happening. ‘Take a deep breath Joe,’ Paul said. ‘I want you to hold it for me for a minute.’ Joe did as he was told, but was unable to hold the breath for very long. Paul looked at him as he listened through his stethoscope and said. ‘Again please.’ Joe tried to take another deep breath but ended up in a coughing fit that lasted for a full minute. The doctor stepped back and waited for him to finish before speaking. ‘How long have you been finding it hard to breathe?’ he asked.

 

‘It ain’t …. hard for …. me to breathe!’ declared Joe.

 

‘You’re finding it hard to get all your words out, and that’s a sure sign that there’s something wrong with your breathing,’ said the doctor. ‘Besides, I can hear it Joe. Your lungs are struggling a bit as you take a breath. There’s a rattling sound like wheezing as well.’

 

Joe just sat and glared at him. Paul moved around the table and placed the stethoscope on the boy’s back. ‘Breathe again,’ he instructed, and Joe took a large breath and held it, glaring at the doctor in defiance as he did so. Paul tapped around on the boy’s back for a few minutes as he listened through his stethoscope, then took it out of his ears. ‘Thank you Joe,’ he said. ‘You can put your shirt back on again.’

 

Ben handed his son his shirt and both men watched as the boy put it back on and began to do up the buttons. Paul looked at Ben over the top of the boy’s head and shook his head slightly. ‘Why don’t you go down and wait with Hoss now Joe?’ asked his father. ‘’I’ll meet you at the Livery Stable in a while.’

 

Joe jumped down from the examining table. ‘You want …. me to go so …. you can talk about … me!’ he said angrily.

 

His father shook his head slightly. ‘All right. If you want to stay you can, but you may not like what you hear,’ he said. ‘Sit down.’ He motioned to a chair in the corner of the office and sat down next to his son. ‘Paul?’ he looked at the doctor.

 

Paul came over and sat next to them both. ‘Joe’s lungs are quite congested,’ he began. ‘That’s not really surprising given the fact that he’s having difficulty breathing.’ Joe slumped down in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest at hearing these words. ‘After the problems he had last winter I think it’s what I have suspected for a while.’ He looked at Ben enquiringly, but the other man motioned for him to continue. ‘I think Joe has asthma,’ he said.

 

Joe looked up at the doctor with a puzzled look on his face, but his jaw was clamped shut and he refused to ask the question that was on his mind. Ben saw the look and asked it for him. ‘Could you please explain for us what that is exactly Paul?’

 

‘It’s when the airways become constricted, ‘ began the Doctor. ‘That’s why Joe would be having difficulty in breathing.’ He looked at the boy. ‘’Does your chest feel tight Joe?’

 

Joe said nothing, but gazed at the floor in front of him. ‘Joseph answer the doctor please,’ said Ben.

 

‘Yes,’ he said with a clenched jaw. ‘Sometimes.’

 

‘Well that’s part of this condition too,’ continued the doctor. ‘The coughing as well. I take it that you have these coughing fits every now and then?’ Joe caught his father’s eye and nodded briefly at the doctor. ‘It all fits the pattern of asthma,’ said Paul.

 

‘What causes the airway to become constricted?’ asked Ben, and noticed that Joe was also listening intently, although pretending not to. ‘Is there anything that we can do to help Joe breathe more easily?’

 

‘It can be caused by quite a few things,’ said Paul. ‘It could be pollens in the air, or even over exercise.’ He stopped. ‘Do you ever notice it’s hard for you to breathe after you’ve been moving around a lot Joe?’ he asked.

 

Joe looked up at him, then at his father. He shrugged his shoulders. ‘Joseph!’ Ben felt his anger with the boy mounting.

 

‘Sometimes,’ Joe said looking back at the floor again.

 

‘It could even be the weather,’ continued Paul. ‘That would account for all those problems Joe had last winter. It’s not unusual for asthma to be brought about by cold air.’

 

‘So what can we do about it?’ asked Ben again. ‘There must be something we can do to help this condition.’

 

‘Actually yes, there’s quite a bit,’ said Paul with a smile. ‘Asthma is something that has to be treated carefully, but there’s no reason why Joseph can’t continue to do most of the things he’s used to as long as he’s careful.’

 

Joe looked up at the doctor cautiously. ‘Like what?’ he asked.

 

‘Well for one thing you have to be extra careful about over doing it when it comes to exercising,’ said Paul. ‘No over-exerting yourself young man. It would be helpful if you learned to monitor your activity and got used to knowing when to stop.’ Joe looked at him warily. ‘For instance, there’s to be no more galloping around at breakneck speed on that horse of yours.’

 

Joe looked at him appalled. ‘You mean …. I can’t ride …. Cochise anymore?’ he said.

 

The doctor shook his head. ‘That’s not what I said. Of course you can ride your horse.’ Joe sat back in his chair looking quite relieved. ‘It’s just that if you feel breathing is difficult you have to stop,’ the doctor continued. ‘There are ways of riding a horse that don’t involve galloping all the time you know Joe.’

 

‘Unfortunately this young man has yet to learn them,’ said Ben with a twinkle in his eye. ‘Joseph it seems like you might have to just learn about trotting and walking Cochise some of the time. What else Paul?’

 

‘Well there should be no running around, no climbing trees, that sort of thing,’ said the doctor. ‘Just take it sensibly Joe, and there shouldn’t be any problem. Do you understand me?’

 

Joe nodded, but didn’t look too happy about it.

 

‘There is also some medicine I can mix up for him,’ said the Doctor. ‘It should help if he does get an asthma attack.’

 

‘Thank you,’ said Ben.

 

‘The problem may become a bit worse during the winter months, and that’s where I’ll need to check him regularly,’ said Paul. ‘Judging by what happened last winter we’ll need to keep an eye on him.’

 

‘Can I go now?’ Joe asked, looking at his father.

 

Ben nodded. ‘Yes you may. Go straight down to the Livery Stable and wait for me there.’ The two men watched as the boy left the room, then Ben turned towards the doctor again. ‘Is there anything else Paul?’

 

‘No I think that just about covers it Ben. Just keep an eye on him, and let me know if you want me to see him again. If he does have an attack, then send for me.’

 

‘How will I know if he’s having an attack?’

 

‘Oh don’t worry, you’ll know! It can be a bit frightening at first if you’re not used to it, but don’t panic about it. He’ll just have difficulty breathing for a while, and may experience some tightness around his chest. He could be pale and sweat a bit, and his heart rate could increase. Just take it easy with him and encourage him to be still and breath slowly. Give him some of the medicine and that should help. It’s a relaxant. If he still has problems after a few doses of it, then you’ll need to send for me.’

 

Ben nodded. ‘Thank you Paul. I’ll have another talk with him and make sure he understands about taking it easy.’

 

‘Make sure you do Ben. That boy is a real live-wire, and he needs to understand about taking things calmly and slowly for a while.’ He stood and shook his friend’s hand. ‘Good luck with convincing him of that!’

 

Ben nodded and left the office. As he stood on the porch he noticed Adam on the other side of the street with Beatrice. Suddenly he noticed his son pull the girl into the doorway of the store they were standing next to and watched puzzled as they disappeared into it as quickly as they could. For a moment he wondered why, until he saw Abigail Jones approaching from the other direction. Smiling to himself and shaking his head, he walked towards the Livery Stable.

 

 

—————

 

 

‘That’s two to me!’ said Joe as he gathered up the marbles and put them safely into his drawstring bag. ‘Who’s next?’ There was a murmur amongst the cluster of boys as they all counted up their marbles.

 

‘Not me!’ said Billy. ‘I ain’t got any more I want to bet with.’

 

‘How about you Mitch?’ asked Joe. ‘You want to try for that blue-glass one I got?’

 

‘OK,’ said Mitch. ‘I’ll try you with this red!’ The two boys bent back over the circle they had drawn in the dirt and lowered their heads as they concentrated. Mitch took the first shot and knocked Joe’s marble straight out of the circle in one go.

 

‘Great shot!’ said Joe, clapping his friend on the back. ‘I hate to lose that blue one though!’

 

Mitch chuckled with glee as he pocketed both marbles. ‘That’ll teach you to mess with me Cartwright!’ he said.

 

‘Hey let’s go down to the creek!’ said Billy and all the boys stood up and followed him. Mitch hesitated for a moment. ‘You coming Joe?’ he asked.

 

Joe shook his head and concentrated on counting out his marbles again. ‘Nah. You go ahead Mitch. I’ll be OK here.’ He watched as his friend ran after the other boys down towards the creek and sighed. He knew that the boys were going to the creek for one reason, and that was to climb the large tree that grew next to its banks and see how far they could jump from it without getting wet. It was one of their favourite pastimes at lunchtime, and one that Joe enjoyed as much as any of them.

 

Used to enjoy! he thought as he viciously kicked a stone with the tip of his boot. It was just the sort of activity that was not allowed now – his father and Doctor Martin had made that abundantly clear to him. It seemed that every time he turned around lately there was something he wasn’t allowed to do, and for the active boy that he was, it was becoming harder and harder for him to sit by and watch his friends all indulge in games that were now not allowed to him.

 

Joe was becoming very good at pretending that it just didn’t matter to him whether he joined in or not, but the truth was that he hurt every time someone suggested a game that he couldn’t be a part of. The hardest thing for him was the continual reminder that his father and brothers issued to him whenever they saw him trying to do something that they felt he shouldn’t. Joe slow down! Joe just take it easy! He was sick and tired of them all watching him every minute and telling him to stop doing things!

 

It wasn’t as if he had had any kind of attack after all! Well, maybe just a few, but they were only little ones and he had managed to breathe properly after only a few minutes. The medicine that Doctor Martin had given him had really helped, and he had learned when to use it as he felt the need. His father insisted that he keep a bottle of it in his saddlebag at all times, and Miss Jones had one in her desk in case he needed it at school as well as Pa having one at home.

 

He cringed at the thought of having to ask for any in front of his friends. Up until now he had managed to hide it from most of them, and those close friends whom he had told about the asthma had been sworn to secrecy. Joe didn’t want to see pity in anyone’s eyes when he couldn’t do things, but mostly he didn’t want anyone having the chance to make fun of him. So he mostly kept the condition to himself and pretended that he really didn’t want to climb or run or do any of the other things that they urged him to.

 

He had also learned to keep some of his breathing problems to himself. His father and brothers were bad enough without letting them know just how many times he did find it hard to breathe. He learned to simply keep his distance from them whenever he was having breathing problems, and was becoming very good at the calming techniques that Doctor Martin had begun to teach him. That Doctor was the worst! Every time he saw Joe, the boy felt like he was being studied for any kind of problem. He dreaded it when Pa made him go into the doctor’s office which he now did on a regular basis, and tried to give the man the least amount of information as possible. There was no way that Joe was going to admit to all the breathing problems that he had, for he felt that the doctor and his father were simply going to overreact if he did. So he bided his time and learned the art of concealment very well.

 

As he sat on the ground pretending to be very interested in counting his marbles, one person watched him carefully. Miss Abigail Jones sat on the porch of the schoolhouse and watched the younger children as they played in the shade, but she was acutely aware of the older boy as he sat with his shoulders hunched over his marbles. Once again she felt great sympathy for the boy as she watched the other children leave him out of their game.

 

Ben had called on the teacher soon after Doctor Martin’s diagnosis to let her know of Joe’s condition. He had asked her to keep a bottle of the medicine in her desk in case the boy should need it, and let her know what to do if he did have an asthma attack. Abigail had tried to talk to Joseph about it, but the boy had merely shrugged off her comments as if he didn’t care. Abigail, however, knew differently. She, more than anyone, had witnessed the daily problems the boy had to deal with at the hands of his friends. Not that they meant to hurt him of course! She was sure that none of them even knew what was going on. But she saw the disappointment and frustration in the boy’s eyes as he constantly had to pretend that he didn’t care for their rowdy games any more.

 

Marbles and a few other quiet activities were all that were left to him, and he was dependent upon the whims of the others as to whether or not they would be played each day. As the days passed Abigail noticed the boy gradually withdrawing into himself and becoming quieter, something that worried her greatly. It was so out of character for Joseph to behave in this way! She resolved to speak to his father about it at the first chance she got.

 

She watched as Joe stood up and walked over to the other end of the porch where he sat quietly. ‘Joseph?’ she said.

 

Joe looked over to her. ‘Yes Miss Jones?’

 

‘Why don’t you go down to the creek with the other boys? You could sit and watch them,’ she suggested, trying to give him something to do.

 

He looked away from her. ‘No, I’m OK here,’ he said.

 

‘I’ll go wiv ya Joe,’ said a small voice beside him, and he looked around to see little Timmy Carter standing there. ‘We could catch tadpoles.’

 

Joe sighed. ‘Nah. You go ahead kid,’ he said. ‘I’m not into catching tadpoles no more.’

 

‘Please Joe?’ the little boy pleaded. ‘Please?’

 

‘Oh all right!’ Joe said crossly. ‘But just for a few minutes.’ He stomped off in the direction of the creek, with Timmy trotting happily behind him. As they approached the creek he sat under a small tree and watched as the younger child began to busily trap tadpoles in a small dam he built, but his eyes quickly darted over to where the boys of his own age were swinging amongst the high branches.

 

‘Come on Joe!’ called out Billy. ‘Why don’t you climb up here?’ Joe shook his head and indicated Timmy who was paddling in the creek. ‘Aw come on!’ continued Billy, he’ll be OK. Come on up!’

 

Joe stared up into the branches, sorely tempted to do as the other boy urged him to. After all, he reasoned, it wasn’t really that high. It wasn’t as if Pa had said he couldn’t do it, he had just said it wouldn’t be a very good idea. Joe reasoned that if he went slowly he would probably be al right. I won’t swing out, he thought. I’ll just go straight up and then climb back down again.

 

‘Will you be OK here for a minute Timmy?’ he asked, and the little boy nodded at him. ‘I won’t be long,’ he said as he got to his feet and made his way over towards the tree.

 

‘Come on Joe!’ called Billy again. ‘Up here!’

 

Joe looked up through the branches and grinned. ‘Coming!’ he shouted back. Tentatively he hoisted himself onto the lowest branch, feeling extremely guilty as he did so. Once he was standing on it, however, all thoughts of guilt left his mind and he climbed upwards towards where his friends were hanging. ‘Shove over!’ he said to Mitch. ‘Let me up there!’

 

Mitch moved over to give his friend space to sit. He looked at him anxiously. ‘Are you supposed to be up here Joe?’ he asked softly so that no one else could hear. ‘Your Pa would kill you if he knew you were climbing trees!’

 

Joe glared at him. ‘Well he ain’t here and he don’t know!’ he snarled. ‘I’m fine!’ He turned when Billy yelled as he swung out over the creek on his branch next to them.

 

‘Yeehaw!!!’ the boy yelled. ‘Come on Mitch and Joe!’ Mitch gave Joe a crooked smile and stood up to follow suit. Joe sat there for a moment watching his friends, and then suddenly stood up, caught hold of the branch he was sitting on and turned himself upside down in like fashion. As he swayed upside down giggling out loud he felt freer than he had in a long time.

 

The sound of the bell caused the boys to quickly right themselves and swing down from the branches. Joe was the first to land on the ground with a thump. And sat looking up through the branches as his friends all descended as well. The boys sat for a few moments to catch their breath, laughing at themselves.

 

‘Come on!’ said Joe standing up. We’re going to get into trouble if we’re not careful.’ He turned towards the schoolhouse and began to walk across the field. Glancing over his shoulder to make sure that little Timmy was also on his way, he was quickly overtaken by the others who were racing each other.

 

‘Come on Joe!’ Billy called over his shoulder. ‘Hurry up!’

 

Joe grinned at him and waved him on, careful to walk without hurrying too much. Now that his feet were firmly on the ground again he felt somewhat guilty and made sure that he was careful in how he moved now. As he neared the schoolhouse he checked his breathing and was pleased to feel that it seemed to be normal. Feeling somewhat smug, he entered and took his place with the others.

 

‘Sit down quickly please Joseph,’ said Miss Jones as he slid into his seat. ‘You are the last one in!’ Joe looked at Mitch and grinned at him, then turned his attention to the side where a group of the smaller boys were arguing silently over a small lizard that one of them had brought in. ‘Put that outside please boys,’ said Miss Jones. ‘Joseph are you listening to me?’

 

Joe quickly looked back at the teacher who was standing in front of him. ‘Yes Miss Jones,’ he said meekly.

 

‘Good. Now the details about the picnic will be as follows……’ Her voice droned on and on, as Joe wondered what on earth she was talking about.

 

He leant over to Mitch. ‘What picnic?’ he whispered.

 

‘The Easter Picnic stupid!’ hissed back his friend.

 

Joe’s eyes lit up. The Easter Picnic was always something that they all looked forward to. It took place each year at the end of term just before their Easter Break, and was quite an event. There were always lots of games with prizes and everyone brought their picnics to share with each other. It usually took place on Bluff Peak, and Joe wasn’t surprised to hear Miss Jones mention the spot again.

 

‘So class we’ll all assemble here at the usual time with our picnic baskets, and travel together as far as Deer Meadow. From there it will be necessary to walk. Please make sure that you are all on time on Friday, as we won’t be waiting for anyone.

 

There was a general murmur around the classroom as everyone took in the information. ‘Hey Joe!’ said Mitch, ‘you want to share lunches on that day?’ When Joe didn’t respond, he poked him in the ribs and repeated the question. ‘Hey Joe, I said do you want to share lunches on that day?’

 

Joe looked at him and nodded his head. He was beginning to feel a bit anxious and didn’t want his friend to notice, so he turned away and looked out the window again. As the class began to open their readers he stared at the tree outside and tried to still his heart which seemed to be beating a mile a minute, as he anxiously concentrated on breathing slowly.

 

‘Joseph open your reader please!’ Miss Jones’ voice cut across his thoughts and he opened his desk to do as she instructed him to. As he stared at the page in front of him he began to realise that his worst fears were coming true, and his breathing was becoming somewhat erratic. He tried to concentrate on the words in front of him, but they made no sense to him and the voices around him seemed to come from far away.

 

Suddenly Miss Jones was at his side. ‘Joseph! I said would you begin to read please!’ she said.

 

Joe studied the book in front of him and tried to take a deep breath. He hesitated, and Miss Jones said again, ‘Joseph!’

 

He looked up at her. ‘I …. I…. can’t!…. I need….’

 

She frowned at him as she noticed his breathing, and quickly moved towards her desk and took the bottle of medicine from it. ‘Class, read silently!’ she commanded, and took Joe by the arm as she led him out of the back door. ‘Here,’ she said as she held the medicine out to him. ‘Have a swallow of this.’

 

Joe took the bottle and gulped down a mouthful. He leant against the wall to steady himself and tried to take slow breaths. ‘You come with me,’ said Miss Jones. ‘We’re going over to the doctor’s office.’

 

Joe shook his head. ‘No,’ he said.

 

Abigail took him by the arm again. ‘I’ll have no arguments Joseph, come with me please.’ She pulled him down the steps of the porch and over towards the gate.

 

‘No,’ said Joe again as he tried to prise her fingers off his arm, but the woman took no notice of him. Joe suddenly felt his knees buckle underneath him and he slid to the ground. Abigail knelt beside him and pulled him to his feet again, supporting him with one arm around his waist.

 

‘Come on,’ she said. ‘We’re going over to the Doctor.

 

It only took a few minutes for them to reach Doctors Martin’s office. As they entered, Paul took one look at the boy’s pale and sweating face and was over to him in two steps. He picked him up, noting as he did so his forced breathing. As he laid him on the examining table he asked Abigail over his shoulder, ‘Did you give him any of the medicine?’

 

‘Yes,’ she said.

 

Abigail watched as Paul undid the boy’s buttons and reached for his stethoscope. ‘After a moment she said, ‘Doctor I’ll have to get back to my students. I’ll leave Joseph with you.’

 

Paul didn’t take his eyes off the boy on the table as he said. ‘Yes of course Miss Jones. On your way could you please stop at the Mercantile? I just saw Adam Cartwright over there. He’ll be able to let his father know what’s happened.’

 

‘Of course,’ said Abigail and left the room. She hurried straight over to The Mercantile Store and entered it quickly. ‘Excuse me,’ she said to Sam Winters who stood behind the counter, ‘Is Adam Cartwright here?’

 

Sam looked around surprised. ‘He was a moment ago,’ he said. ‘That’s strange! He and Beatrice Delaney were standing right over there.’ He motioned over to the other side of the shop.

 

Abigail frowned. ‘Well if you see him could you please tell him I need to speak to him? It’s about his brother Joseph. He’s over at the doctor’s I’m afraid.’

 

There was a sudden movement behind her, and she turned in surprise to see Adam standing there after all. ‘Why Adam!’ she exclaimed. ‘I didn’t see you there a minute ago.’

 

Adam looked rather embarrassed. ‘Well I was just ….. I mean we were on the floor looking for….. something,’ he ended lamely. ‘Weren’t we Beatrice?’ The girl beside him nodded, an amused smile on her face. Abigail looked at her darkly. ‘What’s this about my brother?’ Adam asked.

 

Abigail tore her eyes away from appraising Beatrice for a moment. ‘Joseph is over at the doctor’s office,’ she said. ‘He had an asthma attack and I’ve just taken him over there.’

 

Adam turned to Beatrice with a worried expression on his face. ‘Would you excuse me please Beatrice? I have to go to my brother.’

 

‘Of course,’ said the girl. ‘I hope he’s all right.’

 

Abigail watched as Adam left the store and turned to Beatrice again. ‘Abigail Jones,’ she said holding out her hand. ‘Pleased to meet you.’

 

Beatrice smiled at her. ‘Nice to meet you Abigail,’ she said. ‘I’m Beatrice Delaney. I’m new in town.’

 

‘Obviously,’ said Abigail with a forced smile. ‘Being new in town I suppose you are still trying to sort out just who belongs with whom around here.’

 

‘I beg your pardon?’ said Beatrice.

 

‘I’d be happy to introduce you to some eligible men if you’d like,’ said Abigail. ‘There are quite a few young men who I’m sure would be happy to get to know you.’

 

Well thank you, but Adam is handling my introductions to people quite well.’

 

Abigail gave her another dark look. ‘Well, yes that’s just like Adam Cartwright, he’s always courteous to people who are in need. It’s a shame he isn’t available isn’t it?’

 

‘He isn’t?’

 

‘No I’m afraid not. You see Adam and I have quite an understanding between us. I’m sorry if he didn’t tell you.’

 

Beatrice frowned. ‘No he didn’t,’ she said.

 

‘Well the offer still stands for those introductions,’ said Abigail sweetly. ‘You just let me know. I must get back to my pupils now.’ she left the store smiling as she went, leaving Beatrice with an angry and puzzled look on her face.

 

 

———–

 

 

‘I just don’t understand why it happened,’ said Ben. ‘There doesn’t seem to be any reason for it. At least none that Joseph can remember.’

 

Paul put down his coffee cup and crossed his legs as he looked into the fireplace. ‘It could have been nothing much Ben. Who knows what it would take to trigger an attack. It wasn’t a bad one though, so be grateful for that.’

 

Ben nodded. ‘I know. It’s just that when I saw you and Adam with him in the buckboard, I suppose I panicked a bit.’

 

‘That’s understandable. I told you that these attacks can be a bit frightening the first time you witness them. I was just grateful that Adam happened to be in town and was available to help me get him home so quickly. That boy was bound and determined to get out of my office as soon as he could. Are you sure he likes me?’

 

The two men laughed. ‘I’ve told you not to take it personally,’ said Ben with a twinkle in his eye. ‘My youngest son is a very stubborn boy.’

 

Paul stood up. ‘Well I’d better get going,’ he said. ‘Keep an eye on him today, but he should be all right to return to school tomorrow if his breathing returns to normal.’

 

Ben held out his hand to the doctor. ‘Thank you Paul,’ he said.

 

Paul shook his head. ‘Don’t thank me. Abigail Jones is the one you should be grateful to. If it wasn’t for her quick action this could have been a lot more serious.’

 

Ben nodded. ‘Yes, I’ll make sure that I see her and let her know how grateful I am,’ he said. ‘Or maybe I’ll send Adam in to thank her personally.’ He didn’t need to elaborate on why, and both men exchanged a grin.

 

 

—————-

 

 

‘Now don’t you forget Joseph, you are to wait for your brother to pick you up this afternoon. You’re not to ride home by yourself,’ said Ben.

 

Joe slumped down on his chair. ‘Don’t see why I have to,’ he said. ‘I’m fine.’

 

‘Yes I know you’re fine, but I just want to keep an eye on you today after that attack yesterday,’ said his father patiently. ‘Hoss will ride in with you this morning and Adam will be there to ride home with you.’

 

Joe looked at his oldest brother. ‘Just don’t tell anyone why you’re there will you Adam?’

 

‘Don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me, ‘replied Adam.

 

‘Good,’ said Joe relieved. ‘I don’t want anyone knowing about it. Specially with the picnic coming up on Friday.’

 

‘What picnic?’ asked Ben.

 

‘The Easter one that we have each year,’ replied Little Joe. ‘You know Pa. It’s on this Friday.’

 

Ben nodded. ‘Mmm. Just where is it?’

 

‘At Bluff Peak’ replied Joe. ‘There’s going to be prizes and everything. Do you think Hop Sing will give me extra lunch to trade?’

 

‘I wouldn’t tell him you’re going to trade any of his food if you know what’s good for you,’ said Hoss with a laugh.

 

‘I don’t mean to give it away!’ declared Joe. ‘We just trade. Everyone does it!’

 

‘Joe I don’t know if it’s a good idea for you to go on the picnic this year,’ interrupted Ben.

 

‘Joe stopped chewing and looked at his father with an appalled expression on his face. ‘What do you mean Pa? I have to go!’

 

‘It’s just that Bluff Peak is quite a steep climb. I don’t know if it would be a good idea for you to try it.’

 

‘Don’t worry,’ said Joe. ‘I’ll be real careful and take it slow Pa. I’ll be OK,’ he said confidently.

 

‘Even so, I don’t think it’s a good idea,’ repeated his father. ‘I’d prefer you to stay at home.

 

Joe clenched his jaw in anger and frustration. ‘I have to go!’ he said. ‘Everyone’s going!’

 

‘Everyone except you,’ said Ben. ‘That’s an end to it Joseph.’

 

Joe stared at the table trying to hold back the tears that threatened to fall.

 

‘Pa?’ said Adam. ‘How about if I go too to keep an eye on him?’

 

Joe looked at his brother gratefully and smiled. He turned to his father. ‘How about it Pa? With Adam along I’d be alright.’

 

Ben hesitated. ‘Well I don’t know…’

 

‘He’ll be fine Pa. You know I wouldn’t let him do anything stupid,’ interrupted Adam.

 

Ben looked at his youngest son and noted the pleading look in his eyes. He sighed. ‘Well all right. As long as you understand there is to be no silliness Joseph. You are to take it easy, and do exactly as your brother tells you to. Do you understand?’

 

‘Yes sir,’ said Joe with a grin. He turned towards Adam. ‘Thanks Adam! Only there’s just one thing …..’

 

Adam raised his eyebrow. ‘What?’ he asked.

 

‘Well …. can you not tell everyone why you’re there? Can you just pretend you’re helping out with the games or something?’

 

‘Joe I think some of the others might work it out,’ began Adam.

 

‘No, they won’t,’ said Joe. ‘I’ve only told a couple of kids and they won’t tell. Please Adam?’

 

‘Well Miss Jones will have to know,’ said Ben. ‘I think you’d better see her about it when you pick up Joseph this afternoon.’

 

Adam groaned. ‘I forgot about her,’ he sighed. ‘I suppose I’ll have to talk to her about it.’

 

‘I’ll do it!’ said Little Joe, anxious to please. ‘I’ll explain it for you!’

 

‘All right,’ said Adam. ‘But make sure that you tell it properly.’

 

‘I will,’ said his little brother with a big smile. ‘Thanks Adam!’`

 

 

————–

 

 

‘So if you don’t mind Miss Jones,’ Little Joe explained, ‘my brother really wants to come with us.’

 

‘Does he?’ said Abigail, her eyes shining. ‘Of course if that’s what he wants, then we’d be delighted to have him. Tell your brother that for me please Joseph.’

 

‘Yes ma’am,’ replied Joe. ‘I sure will.’ He hesitated. ‘He kind of wants to keep on eye on me too. Pa said to tell you that as well.’

 

Abigail smiled at him with a far away expression. ‘What was that? Oh yes of course Joseph, whatever you want.’

 

Joe left the schoolhouse and went over to where his horse was saddled to wait for Adam. As he leant against the fence he wondered about the schoolteacher. He sure couldn’t figure her out sometimes! Just when he thought she was just about as crabby as could be, she went all gooey and nice. He shook his head. Women! I’ll never understand why Adam goes all mushy over them.

 

Just at that moment his older brother rode up. ‘Come on,’ he said. ‘I haven’t got all day to wait around for you! Did you speak to Abigail Jones?’ he asked as Joe mounted his horse.

 

Joe nodded his head. ‘Yep, sure did. She said she’d be delighted to have you come.’

 

‘I’ll bet she did!’ Adam said grumpily and turned his horse towards the trail. He was in a bad mood this afternoon, and collecting his younger brother from school had done nothing to lighten it. For some unknown reason Beatrice had avoided him when she saw him in town earlier, and he couldn’t for the life of him figure out why.

 

‘Joe slow down!’ he called after his brother. ‘You know what Pa said about not galloping off like that!’

 

Joe slowed down to a walk and fell into step beside his brother, and the two of them rode side by side out of the town.

 

 

—————

 

 

 

The moment he opened his eyes he knew. He could tell from the first breath he took, or rather tried to take, that it was happening again. Joe shut his eyes again and tried to concentrate on taking in a breath and letting it out slowly. To his dismay, as he drew the air into his lungs he heard the unmistakable wheezing sound that signalled an attack was upon him. He beat the bedcovers with his fists in frustration as he lay there, willing it to go away.

 

After a few more attempts at drawing in a decent breath made him realise that it was futile to hope, he opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling. Why today? It’s not fair!

He reached over for the bottle of medicine that was sitting on the chest of drawers next to his bed and pulled off the top. Taking a large gulp before placing it back on the chest, he lay back and thought about the day ahead of him.

 

Joe knew that he had to be careful, or his father might object to him going after all, and he just couldn’t bear the thought of missing out on this day after all his plans and the excitement attached to it. He lay as still as he could, trying to give the medicine time to work it’s way into his system as he thought about all the wonderful things he would be doing later on with his friends.

 

Having Adam along was going to make it a bit more difficult to do some of the things that he really wanted to, for he knew that his older brother would be watching him very carefully. He couldn’t risk any of his friends realising the real reason that his brother was there, and so he resolved to play it carefully this time. Besides, he thought, I may not have a chance to be anything but careful if this doesn’t go away.

 

Joe lifted his head as Hoss appeared in the doorway. ‘Morning little buddy,’ he grinned. ‘Ain’t ya getting up? It’s the picnic day ya know!’

 

Joe smiled at him. ‘Yeah I know! You think I could forget that? I’ll be down in a few minutes.’

 

‘Well hurry up then. Ya don’t want ta be late ya know!’

 

‘I won’t be.’

 

Hoss disappeared and Joe sighed to himself. This was going to be a bit more difficult than he had first thought! The medicine wasn’t working as he had hoped it would, and he would have to be extra careful not to let Pa realise that he was having trouble breathing at breakfast. It would be much easier to get away with it if he didn’t have to sit at the table, but Joe knew there was no way that his father would let him get out of the house without something to eat. Particularly today! He sighed again as he put his feet on the floor and reached for his pants. He would just have to take it slow and steady and make sure that his father didn’t notice.

 

Downstairs, Ben and Adam were already at the breakfast table when Hoss appeared. Ben looked up as his middle son approached the table. ‘Hoss did you notice if Joseph was awake?’

 

‘Yeah Pa he is,’ said Hoss as he sat and reached for the eggs. ‘He’s just about ta get dressed.’

 

Ben frowned. ‘Strange,’ he said. ‘I thought that young man would have been chomping at the bit to get going this morning.’

 

Hoss grinned. ‘Well he certainly sounds excited. He shouldn’t be long.’

 

Ben turned to Adam. ‘Son make sure you keep a good eye on him today. Don’t let him get up to anything stupid.’

 

‘Pa that’s why I’m going remember?’ said Adam patiently. ‘Don’t worry he won’t put anything past me.’

 

‘Well make sure you don’t embarrass him. Remember what he’s said to his friends about you going,’ said Hoss.

 

Adam grimaced at his brother. ‘I’m not stupid Hoss! If I wanted to embarrass the kid I could find plenty of ways to do it rather than put myself in a position where I have to embarrass myself to do it.’

 

Ben interrupted. ‘I know this isn’t going to be the easiest of days for you Adam. I appreciate you volunteering to do this for your brother, and I’m sure he does too.’

 

‘He’d better,’ said Adam darkly. ‘I’m beginning to doubt my own sanity volunteering to spend a day with Abigail Jones. I’ll just have to try and be creative in staying away from her.’

 

Hoss spluttered into his coffee cup. ‘Well good luck!’ he said with a twinkle in his eye. ‘You know Miss Abigail! Once she gets her mind set on something there’s no holding her back, and I’m afraid older brother her mind’s set on you at the moment!’

 

Adam glared at him. ‘You wouldn’t like to trade places for the day would you?’ he asked.

 

Hoss shook his head. ‘No way! She’s all yours older brother. I wouldn’t dream of coming between ya!’

 

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of their younger brother coming down the stairs. ‘Well good morning Joseph!’ said Ben cheerfully. ‘All ready for the big picnic?’ Joe nodded as he took his seat. He reached for the eggs and began to put a few on his plate. ‘Well I’m glad to see you have an appetite this morning son. You’re going to need something substantial in your stomach before you set out,’ Ben continued.

 

Joe looked at his father and nodded again while putting a small forkful of eggs into his mouth. Hop Sing entered the room carrying a large basket, which he put on the floor next to the table. ‘Picnic lunch for Mr Adam and Little Joe,’ he said. ‘Much food to be eaten. Not bring home left overs.’

 

Adam grinned at him. ‘We won’t Hop Sing. Don’t you worry about it. Joe and I will polish up whatever you’ve got for us there won’t we?’ He smiled at Little Joe, and looked puzzled as the boy simply nodded again as he bent over his plate.

 

Ben frowned as he noticed how quiet Joe was. ‘Are you alright son?’ he asked, touching him on the arm. ‘Did you sleep alright?’

 

Joe swallowed his eggs and looked at his father fiercely. ‘I’m fine!’ he said in a loud voice. He hesitated for a moment before he added. ‘I slept …. fine!’

 

‘Good.’ Ben frowned at him again as he watched him shovel another forkful of eggs into his mouth. It wasn’t like Joseph to be so quiet, especially considering the day that it was. He watched his son out of the corner of his eye as he ate, and noticed the boy seemed to be extremely tense. He wondered why. He couldn’t be worried about the day, as he had nothing but radiate excitement about it before. He studied the boy as he ate and noticed the controlled breathing and the concentration he placed on the food in front of him. So that was it! The boy was having trouble breathing and was trying to hide it.

 

‘So,’ Ben said casually. ‘What are the plans for the day? Where do you all meet this morning?’

 

Joe continued to look at his plate. After a moment he said, ‘At ….. at the …. school.’ His hesitant answer made both Adam and Hoss look up and then exchange glances at each other.

 

Ben continued. ‘And then?’

 

‘I … don’t …. know.’

 

It was obvious to the three men that Joe was having trouble breathing, and Hoss looked at him sadly while Adam exchanged a glance with his father.

 

After a moment, Ben placed a hand on his youngest son’s arm. ‘Joe? Are you having trouble breathing son?’

 

Joe pulled his arm away and shook his head as he put another mouthful of eggs into his mouth. ‘No!’ he said through the food. He stood up. ‘Got … to … go now.’

 

Ben pulled his arm towards him. ‘Sit down,’ he said. ‘You haven’t finished yet.’

 

Joe sat down and picked up his glass of milk, trying to look as carefree as possible. Ben repeated his question. ‘I asked if you were having trouble breathing Joseph,’ he said.

 

Joe shook his head and smiled at his father. He continued to drink the milk so that he didn’t have to say anything. Ben sighed and turned towards the kitchen. ‘Hop Sing would you please bring Joseph’s medicine in here?’

 

Joe put down the glass. ‘I …. don’t need …. any. I …. already ….. had some.’

 

‘When?’ his father asked as Hop Sing put the medicine on the table.

 

Joe stared at his plate. ‘When ….. I woke ….. up,’ he said.

 

‘And it’s still not working,’ said his father. ‘Why did you have some medicine if you’re not having any trouble breathing this morning?’ Joe didn’t say anything, but continued to stare at his plate. ‘Joseph?’ He shrugged, not wanting to talk if he didn’t have to.

 

Ben sighed. ‘Son, I can’t give you any more medicine for a while if you’ve already taken some. We’ll wait a while and then try some more.’

 

Joe looked up at his father, his eyes wide. ‘But …. I’ll be …… late ….. for the …. picnic!’ he said.

 

Ben looked at him sadly. ‘Joe I’m afraid you won’t be going to the picnic. I can’t risk it while you’re having an attack.’

 

Joe glared at his father. ‘I’m ….. not!’ he declared.

 

‘Joe …. Listen to yourself,’ his father answered. ‘It’s obvious that you’re not breathing well today. If you were to go, then I wouldn’t ……’

 

‘No!’ Joe yelled as he stood up. ‘I’m going! You ….. can’t make me ….. miss …. out!’

 

‘Yes I can,’ his father replied. ‘Joe I know you are really looking forward to this, but I just can’t let you go son. You need to take it easy today. I think you need to get back up to bed and ….’

 

‘No!’ said Joe. ‘You can’t ….. make …. me!’

 

‘Joseph,’ said his father with a frown. ‘Don’t you dare speak to me like that! Now I want you to get up to your room and get back into that bed.’

 

‘No!’ yelled Joe again. ‘You said …. I … could go! Adam …. will …. look ….. after me!’ He looked at his older brother pleadingly.

 

Adam looked back at him with pity in his eyes. ‘Joe, Pa’s right. It wouldn’t matter if Doc Martin himself was going with you. Nothing would help if you had a bad attack out there. You know that!’

 

Joe glared at him and clenched his fists as he stood there. Hoss looked at him sadly. ‘Ya’d best do as Pa says little buddy.’

 

Joe looked at him and his face crumpled. ‘But he ….. said I ….. could go!’ he said.

 

‘Not when you’re like this Joseph,’ interrupted his father. ‘Now please do as you are told and go back upstairs.’

 

Joe turned back to his father. ‘You never …. let me ….. do anything!’ he yelled. ‘I …. hate …. you!’

 

Ben flinched at his son’s words. ‘To your room Joseph,’ he said quietly and pointed to the stairs. Joe stomped his foot and turned to leave the room, the tears beginning to fall as he mounted the stairs. The three men remained seated at the table in silence.

 

‘Maybe if I went and made sure he didn’t do anything while he was there,’ said Adam tentatively. ‘Maybe if I took him in the buggy and he just sat and watched.’

 

‘You know you’d never get a buggy up there,’ replied Ben. ‘Thank you Adam, but we all know the boy can’t go.’

 

‘Yeah but Pa,’ began Hoss. ‘The little guy really wants …..’

 

Ben held up his hand. ‘It isn’t a matter of what he wants Hoss. It’s a matter of what is best for him. To allow him to go would be just foolhardy, and I won’t do it.’

 

There was silence again, and then Adam spoke again. ‘Maybe if I offer to take him up there when he’s better,’ he said. ‘Maybe that will help.’

 

‘Maybe,’ said his father, ‘but I don’t think so. Thank you anyway Adam.’

 

‘Well I’d better get into town and let Abigail know,’ said Adam. ‘I hope she doesn’t expect me to go now that Joe’s not going.’

 

‘Knowing Miss Abigail she’ll likely try and talk ya into it!’ said Hoss. ‘Good luck!’

 

Adam sighed and stood up from the table. He shrugged his shoulders before he left the room. Hoss looked at his father. ‘Ya want me ta talk ta Joe for ya Pa?’ he asked.

 

Ben smiled at him. ‘No thank you Hoss. I’ll handle him.’ He thought for a moment. ‘I’d like you to get out to the North Pasture and let Charlie know I won’t be out there today. I’ll stick close to the house in case Joe gets worse.’

 

Hoss stood up and wiped his mouth with his napkin. ‘OK Pa. See ya later.’

 

“Good bye son.’ Ben sipped the last of his coffee as Hop Sing entered the room. ‘Thank you for the picnic lunch Hop Sing, but Joseph won’t be needing it after all.’

 

Hop Sing picked it up again. ‘Little Joe sick again?’

 

Ben nodded. ‘Yes, I think so.’

 

‘Hop Sing bring tea up for him. Herbs to make better.’

 

‘Thank you Hop Sing. I’ll be up there with him for a while.’ Ben sighed again as he stood up from the table and turned to face the daunting task of calming down his youngest son. With a heavy heart he mounted the stairs.

 

 

—————-

 

 

‘I told you to get into bed,’ Ben said as he entered Joe’s bedroom and saw the boy sitting on the windowsill. When his son didn’t acknowledge his remark he walked over to him and put his hand on his shoulder, but Joe thrust it off angrily and stood up to walk away from his father.

 

He sat on the edge of his bed and began to undo the buttons of his shirt, then bent to take off his boots and pants. Ben stood next to him silently and picked up his nightshirt from the bed to hand to him. Joe grabbed it from his father and slipped it over his head without a word, before lying down on the bed and pulling up the covers. He turned away to face the wall and closed his eyes.

 

After a moment, Ben sat down on the edge of the bed and put his hand on the boy’s shoulder again. Joe shook himself away from his father without opening his eyes and moved over in the bed until he was as close to the wall as he could be.

 

‘Joseph I know you’re angry with me son, but I’m doing this for your own good,’ Ben said. When there was no reply he continued. ‘I just can’t let you take a risk by going to that picnic.’ There was silence, and he sighed as he looked at the stubborn boy in the bed beside him. ‘You get some sleep now Joe. I’ll come back later to give you some more medicine.’ Ben stood and looked at his son for a few more moments before turning and leaving the room.

 

As he heard the door close, Joe opened his eyes and turned to lie on his back and stare at the ceiling. It just wasn’t fair! Why couldn’t his father see that he’d be all right? It wasn’t as if he knew about the other day. Joe made a face as he remembered the evasive answers he had given to the doctor when he questioned him about what had happened. He hadn’t exactly lied to him, but Joe knew that he hadn’t exactly told him the truth either. If Pa had known about him climbing that tree he’d have been in trouble for sure, and he just couldn’t risk it.

 

Lot of good it’s done me now though! He thought. It’s just not fair! He heard a noise outside his window and got out of bed to have a look at what was happening down in the yard. He frowned as he saw Adam sitting on his horse talking to their father. Bet they’re talking about me! He’d better not be telling that nosey old Doc Martin to come out here – I don’t want to see him! He watched as his brother left the yard and his father walked back towards the house again. Glaring down at him as he disappeared beneath the overhang of the porch, Joe banged his fist on the wall in frustration. Without a second thought he turned back towards the bed again and began to pull on his pants. I will not do as he says! I don’t care what he thinks, I won’t be the only one to miss out on that picnic!

 

With a last stubborn look at the bed he quietly opened the window and began to climb out onto the roof.

 

 

—————-

 

 

‘Why Adam! You’re just in time,’ said Abigail delightedly as she looked up from the milling throng of children around her. ‘Where’s Joseph?’

 

‘My brother won’t be coming,’ said Adam. ‘Could I have a word with you for a moment please?’

 

‘Of course,’ said Abigail with what she hoped was a sweet smile. ‘Over here.’ She led him into a corner away from the excited children.

 

‘Joe has had another asthma attack this morning so I’m afraid that he won’t be going,’ said Adam. ‘I don’t think he’d like the others to know though.’

 

‘Of course I won’t tell them,’ replied Abigail. ‘He must be very disappointed.’

 

Adam nodded. ‘Yes he is. Well, I thought I’d just let you know.’ He tipped his hat as he took a step away from her. ‘Have a good day.’

 

Abigail looked at him puzzled. ‘But Adam, just because Joseph isn’t coming with us doesn’t mean you have to miss out as well does it?’

 

Adam licked his lips. ‘I wouldn’t dream of going Miss Jones. I don’t think that would be fair to Joe do you?’

 

Abigail tried to hide her disappointment. ‘No I suppose not. What a shame! I was really looking forward to your help today.’ She took a step forward and smiled at him again. ‘Maybe another time then?’

 

He took another step back until he was pushing against the wall behind him. ‘Maybe. Goodbye!’ He turned and walked quickly to his horse, relieved that he had got out of it so easily. Abigail stared after him for a moment before turning back towards the children. The day didn’t seem nearly as enjoyable now after all!

 

 

————–

 

 

Joe pulled Cochise into the bushes off the side of the trail as he heard another rider coming towards him. As he peeped out from behind them he realised that it was just as well he had, for it was his brother Adam returning from town. Probably poking his nose in and talking to Miss Jones about me! He wondered what to do. It was no use turning up at school, for she might just send him straight home again. No, he decided, I’ll get halfway up to Bluff Peak and meet them there. By that time she can’t send me home if I tell her that I got better and Pa said I could go after all.

 

He turned Cochise away from the trail and headed across the field behind him, being careful to walk her. He didn’t want any more reason to make his breathing worse than it already was.

 

By the time Joe had reached the lower slopes of Bluff Peak he began to be little worried. He felt a tightness in his chest that he knew wasn’t right, and so he slid off Cochise to sit down under a tree and rest for a while. After a few minutes, he reached up and drew the bottle of medicine from his saddlebag, thankful for once that his father had insisted that he leave one there. He took a mouthful and leant back to give it time to work. After a few moments his eyes began to close and he drifted off into a light sleep.

 

He could tell from the direction of the sun when he awoke that he must have been sleeping for at least an hour. His chest still felt tight and when he tried to breathe he began to cough. With every breath he took he heard the wheezing sound that the doctor had told him about, and he worried at the thought of what it might mean.

 

Maybe it was pretty dumb to try and come here after all! He thought. I’d better just take it real slow. He stood up to grab hold of the reins of his horse, but as he took a step forward he felt himself begin to feel dizzy and the ground tilted up to meet him. He was surprised to find himself on his knees hanging onto the reins and struggled to stand up again. His heart was beating very fast and he felt himself sweating and beginning to shake as he attempted to get up.

 

Suddenly his legs buckled under him again and he found himself sitting on the ground, the reins dangling above him. He bent his head down and rested it on his arms as he fought to regain control over his breathing, trying to keep his panic at bay. For a few moments he lay there struggling for breath. He wondered if he should try some more of the medicine, but remembering Doctor Martin’s warning not to take it too frequently he decided not to. Anyway I don’t know if I could even reach it! He thought, looking up at the reins dangling above him. They seemed an awfully long way away, and he wondered about his ability to even reach up that much.

 

Joe lifted his head and looked around. There was nothing that he could see to help him – no children, no Miss Jones, nothing! He wondered if they had passed him while he had been asleep and decided that they probably had. He lowered his head again to rest. I’ll try again in a few minutes, he decided.

 

 

————–

 

 

Ben approached his son’s room with a bottle of medicine in his hand. He hated the battles he had with this youngest son of his. It seemed like ever since he was a tiny baby he had to fight against that stubborn streak Joseph had inside him. It wasn’t that he was a bad boy, just wilful. He didn’t always think through his actions and when he wanted to do something he would move heaven and earth to achieve it. But Ben was determined that this child of his would have to learn to abide by his father’s instructions and do as he was told. It wasn’t as if Ben enjoyed doing this to the boy. It was for his own good after all!

 

As he opened the door and saw the empty bed he immediately suspected what had happened. He thumped his fist on the wall beside him in frustration as he turned to run down the hallway, vowing that sick or not this time the boy would feel the full brunt of his displeasure with the blatant disobedience that he was displaying. If that boy thinks he can just ignore me, then he can just think again! Ben felt his anger erupting and he struggled to maintain his composure. After all, he told himself, the important thing is to make sure that Joseph is all right. It’s not going to help anything if I lose my temper with him.

 

Cochise’s stall was empty as he had suspected it would be. With mounting anger he saddled his own horse and was just mounting up when he heard the sound of a rider entering the yard. He walked his horse out to the yard to see Adam appearing around the side of the barn. One look at his father’s face was enough to prompt Adam to say, ‘He’s gone hasn’t he?’

 

Ben merely nodded and mounted up, while Adam shrugged his shoulders in frustration and turned his horse to follow his father out of the yard. Neither man needed to say where they were going, as they both knew the direction that Joe would be taking. They only hoped that they would find the boy safe.

 

 

 

————–

 

Abigail Jones was enjoying her day after all, although she knew it would have been even better with the handsome Adam Cartwright along. Still, she had not given up on him! It was obvious to her how keen he was to develop their relationship further, for why else would he be constantly seeking her out and making excuses to see her? She felt that he must be very shy, and determined to find a way to allow them both to show their true feelings for each other.

 

So lost was she in her daydream that it was only when several of the children began to yell in front of her that she came back to reality.

 

‘Miss Jones! There’s a couple of riders coming!

 

Abigail put up her hand to shade her eyes, and was delighted to see that it was the very object of her affections Adam Cartwright and his father. She stepped forward as the two men pulled to a halt beside her. ‘Miss Jones,’ said Ben, and she noticed a very worried look on his face. ‘Is Joseph with you?’

 

She shook her head. ‘No he’s not. Adam came in this morning and said that he wasn’t coming with us.’

 

Ben nodded. ‘Yes I know, but he left the house without permission, and I have a feeling he might be headed up here to join you.’ He looked around. ‘You didn’t see him on the way at all?’

 

She shook her head. ‘No I didn’t. But if he does catch up with us then I’ll certainly send him straight back home!’

 

‘Thank you, but I’m a bit concerned that if he does make it this far, that he won’t be in any fit state to come home,’ replied Ben. He hesitated. ‘I really need to keep searching I suppose, but what if he shows up here?’ He looked over at Adam. ‘Son would you stay here with the group while I retrace our trail? If your brother makes it this far you can get him back to the ranch, and if I find him then I’ll do the same.’

 

Adam glanced at Abigail who was grinning widely at him. ‘I’ll go back Pa, you stay here,’ he suggested.

 

Ben glared at him. ‘Do as I ask please Adam! This is no time for an argument!’ He turned his horse and said over his shoulder, ‘If he makes it here, fire a shot in the air and I’ll come back. I’ll do the same if I find him.’

 

Adam nodded and turned back to Abigail with a half smile. She beamed at him. ‘Well it looks as if you’ll be coming with us after all!’

 

‘Mmm, ‘ he replied unenthusiastically. ‘So it does.’ He turned quickly as he heard a shot. ‘Pa must have found him!’ he said. ‘I have to go!’ He galloped down the hill and towards the sound of the shot. He noticed his father’s horse in the distance and rode towards it, praying that he had in fact found Joe. As he came near he noticed his father on the ground, cradling his younger brother in his arms. He slid off his horse and knelt down beside him.

 

Joe had his eyes closed, his whole being concentrated on taking each breath. His face was a deathly pale colour and covered with a layer of sweat. His lips were blue from lack of oxygen and he was trembling. But what was the most frightening thing to Adam was the sound of his younger brother gasping for each breath. Ben looked at him. ‘Adam help me get him up onto my horse!’

 

Adam bent and lifted his brother from his father’s arms. He felt Joe stiffen as he did so, and he held the boy tightly into his chest to try and calm him. ‘Easy Joe,’ he said, ‘it’s all right little buddy.’ He handed him up to his father when he was seated on his horse, then tied Cochise’s reins on behind them. Looking up at his father he said anxiously, ‘Are you sure you can do this Pa? I could get the buckboard first.’

 

‘No! I’ll manage Adam, get Paul out to the ranch now. I’ll get Joe there – it’s closer than taking him into town.’

 

Adam mounted without another word and galloped off. Ben looked down at his son in his arms and said a silent prayer that he would indeed be able to get the boy back home. He felt the boy trembling as he lay against his chest and noticed the frantic movements of his hands as he tried to clutch at his father. As he began to walk the horse he held onto his son tightly, whispering in his ear as they went. ‘Just calm down Joseph. Your Pa’s got you now. It’ll be all right.’

 

But Ben wasn’t sure that it would be. All along the trail back towards the house he kept talking to the boy, trying to keep him calm and telling him to concentrate on his breathing. But he could see that Joseph was beginning to panic and knew that if the boy kept on like this that his breathing would become even more strained.

 

The boy’s hands were clutching at him frantically and Ben was afraid to go at a faster pace than a walk for fear of upsetting the boy even more. He prayed that they would make it, and with each step that they took he rejoiced that they were one more step closer to help.

 

 

———–

 

 

 

“I am so glad to see you Paul!’ said Ben, standing up to greet the doctor as he entered the room. ‘I’m so sorry to get you out all this way again so soon.’

 

Paul shook his head. ‘Don’t worry about it Ben.’ He looked at the boy on the bed and frowned. ‘Adam said that he’s been like this for a while.’ Ben gave the man a quick run down on their morning as Paul got his stethoscope out of his bag. ‘Has he had any of the medicine?’ he asked.

 

He said that he had a dose when he woke up this morning, and then another one a couple of hours ago,’ said Ben. ‘I think by the time he had the second dose though the attack had well and truly taken hold of him.’

 

Paul nodded. ‘Seems like it might have. Just settle back for a minute Joe, I have to listen to your lungs and heart.’ He pushed the boy back onto the bed and motioned for Ben to keep him still.

 

Joe was trying to make himself understood without having to speak. He clutched at his father’s sleeve and beckoned to him, but Ben just shook his head at the boy and put his hand on his forehead. ‘Joseph just lie still for now while the doctor examines you. Don’t try and talk.’

 

Joe looked up at his father and opened his mouth as if to speak. But all that came out was another spasm of coughing and he gasped for breath again. Paul studied him as the coughing subsided, then bent over him again with the stethoscope to listen. Ben sat and held onto the boy’s arms, smiling at him in an attempt to calm him down.

 

When the doctor stood up again Ben let go and began to stroke Joe’s forehead. ‘That’s it now Joe. Just close your eyes and relax.’ But relaxing was something Joe just couldn’t manage at this stage. He was panicking as he tried to take a breath and felt his lungs struggling to fill up. He felt as if he were under water and unable to get any air into his lungs at all. Somewhere in his consciousness he heard the doctor’s voice as if far away, and opened his eyes to see if he were really there.

 

For the first time in his short life, Joe was glad to see the man. Even though he had fought against him so many times he had great faith in his ability to do something to help him. There were many times when the doctor had helped him in the past, although he would have been the last one to admit that, and he hoped that he would be able to help him now. He was willing to do anything the man would tell him to, as long as he could help him to get some air into his lungs. Joe felt like his chest was about to explode and the dizzy feeling was overtaking him again. With a small moan he closed his eyes again and focussed on each intake of air.

 

He continued to clutch onto his father’s arms, unwilling to let them go. He felt that he could perhaps draw some strength from him and needed to feel him close. He desperately wanted to talk to him, but knew that he needed every ounce of air for breathing not talking. Ben stared down at his son as he struggled for each breath, stroking the hair off his forehead and trying to appear calm for the boy’s sake. As Paul drew a chair up next to him, he spoke without taking his eyes from his son’s face. ‘What can we do to help him Paul?’

 

Before the doctor could answer Hoss and Adam entered the room. Paul turned towards them. Boys we’re going to need your help,’ he said, and they both nodded.

 

‘Just tell us what to do,’ Hoss said, watching his younger brother on the bed as he spoke. ‘I’ll do anything Doc.’

 

Paul glanced at Ben. ‘I can’t give him any more of the medicine at the moment. It contains a high concentrate of morphine which inhibits the coughing that he’s experiencing, but I just can’t risk overdosing him on it.’

 

Ben nodded. ‘I understand. So what else do we try?’

 

Paul turned to Hoss. ‘I want you to see if you can find any horehound. There should be some at this time of year. The juice of it could be quite effective.’ Hoss nodded and left without a word. Ben knew that if anyone could find the plant it would be Hoss. He had an uncanny affinity with nature, and would know just where to look. ‘In the meantime,’ Paul continued, ‘Adam, see if Hop Sing has any linseed oil in the kitchen.’ Adam left the room without a word.

 

I’m going to get some hot water and towels,’ continued Paul. ‘Stay with him Ben.’ Ben nodded. He had no intention of leaving his son for a moment.

 

After a few moments he heard Paul and Adam entering the room. Paul held a bowl of hot water and a towel, which he placed on the bed next to Joe. ‘We’re going to try some inhalations, he said. ‘It might just widen his airways to make the breathing a bit easier. Ben nodded again, willing to do anything the man told him to without question. He lifted Joe up while Adam placed more pillows behind him to keep him in a semi-sitting position and watched as Paul placed the bowl on Joe’s lap and covered his head with the towel.

 

The boy struggled for a moment as he felt himself being confined under the towel, and Ben reached in and continued to stroke his head as he murmured softly to him. When he continued to struggle Ben finally put his own head under the towel and sat with him in this position while he breathed in the steam. Joe seemed to settle down a bit when he felt his father’s presence next to him, and clung onto him even more tightly.

 

After a few moments the towel was lifted and Paul appeared holding the bottle of oil that Adam had brought. He dropped a few drops into the water, and Ben instantly smelt the pungent odour fill his nostrils. ‘Try to get him to breathe it deeply,’ Paul instructed as he put the towel down again and withdrew his head.

 

Ben tried to do as the doctor instructed. He looked deeply into Joe’s eyes and breathed deeply himself, trying to give the boy the encouragement to follow suit. Joe tried desperately to do as his father and the doctor wanted him to, but felt the panic welling up inside him even as he attempted to do so. But Ben didn’t for a moment let up on the boy, and his constant voice in his ear gradually penetrated its message of calm and control.

 

After a while Joe matched his breathing with that of his father’s and even though his breaths were a lot shallower, the regular rhythm of them helped to calm him. Paul replaced the water several times, making sure that it was always hot, and by the time Hoss came running back up the stairs again, the atmosphere in the room was quite controlled and calm.

 

He thrust out his hand and showed the doctor the crumpled leaves and small white flowers of the plant he was holding. ‘Here Doc,’ he said. ‘I fond a batch of it by the side of the trail.’

 

Paul took it and smiled. ‘That’s wonderful Hoss. Now watch what I do so you’ll be able to do it next time. He took a small knife from his bag and cut the leaves into pieces. Gently he squeezed until a few drops of juice fell from them and gathered in the bottom of the small bowl he held underneath. ‘We need quite a bit of it, he said. ‘Here, keep doing this.’ Hoss took the bowl from him and kept squeezing the leaves.

 

Paul turned to Adam. ‘We’ll need some honey to mix it with,’ he said. Adam nodded again and left the room.

 

By the time the syrup was ready, Joe was a lot calmer and it seemed the crisis had passed. Paul took off the towel and fed the boy the infusion of juice and honey slowly, and he was able to swallow it. Ben sat with him propped up on his chest, stroking his forehead from behind as he murmured to him. ‘Good boy Joe. That’s it now. It’s going to be all right.’

 

For the first time he actually believed his own words, and smiled at the doctor in front of him. ‘Seems like it might be a good idea to transplant some of that horehound to some of our garden eh Hoss?’ he said.

 

Hoss nodded. ‘Reckon so Pa. It’d be good ta have some of it on hand.’ Paul kept spooning the mixture into Joe’s mouth, as Ben sent up a silent prayer that they would never again need it.

 

 

————–

 

 

 

Paul straightened up and took the stethoscope out of his ears. ‘Much better,’ he said patted Joe on the head. ‘I’m sure the breathing is easier now eh?’

 

Joe nodded. ‘Yes,’ he said.

 

Paul sat on the edge of the bed. ‘You know Joe, yesterday you were a very sick boy. You’ve really got to learn to listen to what your body is saying to you. I hope this has been a good lesson for you.’

 

Joe nodded again. ‘Sure has Doc!’ he agreed. ‘I won’t be disobeying Pa when he tells me I can’t go somewhere again, and I won’t be climbing any more trees neither.’ He stopped with a worried look as he realised what he had said.

 

‘Climbing trees?’ asked his father. ‘What’s all this about climbing trees?’

 

Joe bit his lip and fiddled with the bedcovers. ‘Nothing Pa. I only meant that if I thought about climbing trees ….. then I wouldn’t.’ He looked up at his father and gave him a tentative grin.

 

Ben studied the boy’s expression for a moment. ‘I’m glad to hear you say that you’ll obeying my instructions from now on Joseph,’ he said. ‘I expect you to remember that.’

 

Joe nodded. ‘Yes Pa,’ he said quietly.

 

Paul interjected. ‘Joe, it’s very important that you realise just how serious this is. You could have died because of your foolishness. You understand that don’t you?’ Joe nodded, his eyes widening as the doctor continued. ‘The medicine isn’t enough to help you when you have an attack that bad. You must learn to stop when you feel one coming on.’

 

Joe nodded again. ‘I will,’ he said confidently.

 

Ben raised an eyebrow at his friend. Not for one moment did he believe that his son was capable of remembering or acting upon the doctor’s orders for long. It wasn’t that the boy always meant to be disobedient – although there were many times that Ben suspected that he did – it was just that thinking before he acted was not Joseph’s strong point. ‘His brothers and I will remind him Paul,’ he said, giving his son a meaningful look.

 

Paul stood up. ‘I’ll see myself out Ben. I don’t think there’s any need for me to come back out again unless you call for me now. Joe seems to be fine again.’

 

Ben shook his friend’s hand. ‘Thank you Paul,’ he said. ‘That’s all I ever seem to say to you lately isn’t it? I’m sorry we’re so much trouble for you.’

 

‘Don’t mention it,’ said Paul looking directly at Joe. ‘It’s just lucky that Joe and I are such good friends isn’t it? Otherwise we might get sick and tired of seeing each other hmm?’

 

Joe wriggled uncomfortably under the bedclothes. ‘Yeah,’ he said with an embarrassed smile.

 

As the doctor left the room, Ben sat down on the edge of his son’s bed. ‘Now what’s all this about climbing trees young man?’ he asked seriously. ‘I’d like to know exactly what was behind that remark you made a few moments ago.’

 

Joe sighed as he lay back down on the pillow again. How did his Pa do it? Just when he thought he’d got away with something, he always managed to remind him that he hadn’t!

 

 

—————-

 

 

Abigail Jones brought the buggy to a halt and looked with approval at the large house in front of her. She had never had the opportunity to visit the Cartwright ranch before, and this seemed to be as good an opportunity as any. As she dismounted she noticed the imposing front porch with the rambling red climbing rose that trailed over it. It leant a decidedly feminine touch to a façade that was otherwise very masculine in its appearance. She smiled with satisfaction as she approached the front door and knocked.

 

It was opened by Hop Sing the Cartwright’s Chinese cook. ‘Good afternoon,’ said Abigail pleasantly. ‘Would Mr Cartwright be at home please?’

 

Hop Sing eyed her up and down. ‘Which one?’ he asked.

 

Abigail hesitated. ‘Mr Ben Cartwright or Mr Adam Cartwright,’ she said. ‘Either one would do.’

 

Hop Sing waved her inside. ‘Both here,’ he said.

 

Ben stood to greet the schoolteacher as she entered the large living room. ‘Miss Jones,’ he said. ‘How lovely to see you.’

 

‘Thank you Mr Cartwright,’ replied Abigail. ‘I came to see how Joseph is getting on.’

 

‘That’s very nice of you,’ said Ben. ‘Would you like to see him?’

 

Abigail’s eyes were darting around the room anxiously as if searching for something as she replied. ‘Yes, thank you.’

 

Ben lead her up to Joe’s room and waved her in front of him as he said, ‘Joseph you have a visitor.’ Joe looked up from his game of checkers eagerly at his father’s words, but his face fell when he saw who it was. ‘Say hello to Miss Jones, Joseph,’ said his father to break the silence.

 

‘Hello Miss Jones,’ he said without enthusiasm.

 

Abigail’s eyes lit up as she noticed Adam sitting on the edge of the boy’s bed. ‘Hello Joseph,’ she replied while staring straight at Adam. ‘Well hello Adam! Visiting with your brother I see. How lovely of you.’

 

Adam stood up and took a step backwards, his face a bland mask of politeness. ‘Hello Abigail,’ he said. ‘You’ll have to excuse me. I have some work to finish.’

 

‘Please don’t let me disturb your game,’ said Abigail with a smile. ‘I just came to see how Joseph is. We’ve missed you at school Joseph.’ Her eyes didn’t leave Adam for a moment, and Ben wasn’t sure just who her words were directed to.

 

‘Joseph is doing a lot better now thank you,’ he said. ‘He won’t be back at school for a few more days though.’

 

Abigail turned towards him. ‘I thought that might be the case Mr Cartwright, so I brought some work for him. I thought you might like him to keep up with his studies.’

 

Ben beamed at her. ‘That’s very nice of you Miss Jones,’ he said. ‘Isn’t it Joseph?’

 

Joe’s expression didn’t exactly mirror that of his father’s – in fact it could be better described as a scowl. When he didn’t reply, Adam laughed and said, ‘I’m sure Joe is very pleased to hear that he’ll be doing school work while he’s in bed!’ He smirked at his younger brother who glared back at him and then lay back on his pillow with a sad expression.

 

‘Well I’ll do my best to finish it,’ replied Joe in a small tired voice. ‘But I might need some help. Miss Jones do you think you could take some time to explain to Adam what I have to do? He’s real good at that sort of thing and I’m sure he’d be happy to help me.’

 

Abigail smiled widely. ‘What a wonderful idea Joseph! I’m sure your brother would be only too happy to help you with your work. Wouldn’t you Adam?’ Adam gave her a half-hearted smile. ‘Come,’ she patted the chair beside her. ‘I’ll explain it all to you.’

 

Ben smiled to himself as his oldest son sat down reluctantly. ‘Would you like some coffee Miss Jones?’ he asked.

 

‘Yes please Mr Cartwright that would be very nice,’ Abigail replied. ‘I think this is going to take quite a while.’ She patted Adam on the arm as she said, ‘Now Adam let’s start with the arithmetic.’

 

Ben glanced at Joe as he left the room, and for a moment he caught a glimpse of a smirk on his face as he watched his brother and Miss Jones. Maybe I’m wrong, he thought as he left the room. Maybe Joseph does think things through sometimes.

 

 

 The End