Summary: A man from Ben’s past arrives at the Ponderosa dredging up painful memories for Adam, and it’s up to Little Joe to help Adam set things right.

Rating:  T  (11,900 words)

A Ghost from the Past

Ben came out of the bank and stood for a moment, trying to work out what to do next when a man hurried over “Ben Cartwright. It is Ben Cartwright ain’t it?”

 

Ben turned to the approaching man and for a moment he couldn’t place him and then as though in a dream he could see Inger offering coffee to a younger version of the same man. “Joe Payne?”

 

“The self same. Bin a while.”

 

Ben moved over and offered his hand and the two men shook before Ben invited Payne to join him in a drink. They went over to the Palace and Ben bought drinks and they took them to a table in the corner Ben asked, “How is your wife?”

 

“She died near twenty years ago, sickly like my boy, remember he died on the trail, not like that boy of yours dark-haired kid, real hard worker for a little un.”

 

“Adam. Yes he still is a hard worker.”

 

“Full grown by now, even that big baby you had must be a man, had a strange name?”

 

“Hoss. He’s full-grown too or at least I hope so! As big a man as his mother predicted. I have a third son Joseph he is nearly eighteen.”

 

“You married again? I never got round to it.”

 

“Yes but I lost her in a riding accident when my youngest was four. Enough of the past what are you doing in Virginia City?”

 

Payne gave a rather garbled story of business with the railroad and then changed the subject to the Ponderosa. He had heard all about the ranch, Ben had managed to turn his dream into a reality.

 

Ben found himself only part listening, seeing Payne brought back so memories of Inger and the long days on the trail, the birth of his second son and Inger’s delight in her beautiful big baby. Pulling himself back to the present, it was instinctive for Ben to invite Payne to join them at the ranch for a few days and the other man accepted.

 

Ben had already shown him to a guestroom and Payne had settled in when Ben heard three horses come in and knew his sons had arrived home. By the time the brothers had seen to their horses Payne had joined Ben for coffee by the fire.

 

Ben came to his feet as the brothers came in “Good to see you boys. We have a visitor.”

 

The three of them moved over and Adam recognised him instantly and his youngest brother was surprised as he felt the sudden tension in his brother as they stood next to each other. Adam tried to hide his feelings and was glad when Hoss asked “Ain’t you gonna introduce us Pa?”

 

Ben grinned of course “I was just wondering if Adam remembered but he was only five. This is Joe Payne he was on the wagon train as we headed west to Ash Hollow and then from there to Fort Laramie. Do you remember Adam?”

 

Adam moved slightly forward and shook the older man’s hand “Welcome to the Ponderosa Sir. Of course I remember, you, your wife and your son.”

 

“You have grown some boy.”

 

Adam raised his eyebrow at that comment but moved back and let his brothers say hello. He was desperately trying to hide the churning in his stomach.

 

Hoss considered the newcomer “Did you know my mother?”

 

“Certainly did young fella. I can tell you I remember your birth, biggest baby ever born on the trail. Your Ma was a lovely lady, real good with kids and animals.”

 

Adam felt the excitement in his brother and bit back the angry words that had sprung to mind when he saw Payne. He made up his mind to go out for the evening and once Joe had also been introduced, Adam said, “I’m very sorry I shan’t be here this evening I have an appointment in town.”

 

Ben glared at his son but Adam met his eye, “I gave my word Pa.”

 

“Well of course Son.”

 

Joe looked at Hoss and murmured, “I thought he said he was tired and wanted an early night?”

 

Hoss shrugged “Drop it Joe.”

 

Adam quickly washed and changed and rode out wanting to avoid any questions from his father. Not wanting to face anyone, he headed up to the lake and sat staring out over it with all too many memories. It was cold and after sitting by the lake for an hour Adam was cold through and he walked along the shore, memories from the train running through his mind. Interspersed with the memories of Payne were the deaths of his friend Tommy, Payne’s son and even worse the death of his mother or at least the only one he’d known.

 

Ben had enjoyed the evening and Hoss had hung on every word. It meant so much to the big man to meet a man who had had known his mother. Payne seemed to remember every day on the trail and had all sorts of anecdotes that Ben had long forgotten.

 

It was gone midnight when Adam got back and he was glad to see the house was dark. He went in quietly and moved over to the fire to warm up, pouring himself a brandy. He hadn’t eaten but he wasn’t hungry and having given himself quarter of an hour to warm up, he headed for bed. Even when he got into bed, he couldn’t sleep but eventually he did doze off only to slide into a nightmare.

 

Joe was woken by strange noises from the adjacent room and he got out of bed to investigate. He found his eldest brother threshing around in the bed, murmuring indistinguishably and sweating as though he had a high fever. Very worried Joe moved to hold his brother still and shook him gently trying to wake him. It seemed to take forever but eventually Adam’s eyes open and he focused enough to see his little brother “Joe?”

 

“Easy brother, you were having a nightmare.”

 

Adam eased himself up on the bed and Joe went over and wet a cloth, “Here wipe your face, you’ll feel better.” Adam did as his brother suggested and Joe sat down next to the bed considering him anxiously “You okay Adam? Do you wanna talk?”

 

“What got you up?”

 

“You were talking in your sleep and when I came in you were threshing around.”

 

Adam wiped the back of his hand across his mouth, “What was I saying?”

 

Joe shrugged, “I couldn’t make out any words. I always used to feel better when I talked about my nightmares. Might find the same big brother.”

 

Adam forced a smile “It’s okay Joe I’m fine now. Thanks for coming in and I’m sorry I disturbed you. Why don’t you get back to bed we have a busy day tomorrow.”

 

Joe wasn’t surprised but at least Adam did look better so with a squeeze of his brother’s arm he got to his feet “I’m just next door if you want anything. Night.”

 

Adam waited until the door closed and then eased himself out of bed washing down his face and torso, he sat down by the window not trusting himself to go back to sleep, the memories all too vivid.

 

At breakfast Ben announced with great delight that he had talked Joe Payne into staying for a couple of weeks. Hoss was obviously pleased and Joe couldn’t help wondering if he was the only one who had seen the look of near panic on his eldest brother’s face at the news. Adam didn’t say anything much but managed to hide his feelings and soon excused himself, he had to go up to the timber camp. Ben and Hoss were both intrigued by a story that Payne was telling of a time Inger had cooked a superb breakfast and everyone but Ben had enjoyed it as he was off hunting and only Joe noticed that his eldest brother barely touched his food.

Joe excused himself and followed Adam out to the barn but Adam busied himself with Sport and wasn’t prepared to talk and Joe could only let him go, wondering what was going on.

 

Joe wasn’t surprised when a message came from the lumber camp that Adam had to stay up there for the next couple of days but Ben was slightly annoyed. “Sorry about that Payne, but as you said my eldest son is a real hard worker.”

 

Even up at the lumber camp Adam found it impossible to sleep for long without nightmares and he slipped out to sleep well away from the men, not wanting to cause any comment. Tired out Adam found he managed about an hour before the past invaded his dreams and he woke up in a cold sweat. After the second occasion Adam gave up and spent the rest of the night updating the paperwork, before throwing himself into the hard physical labour of cutting down the trees. For the next two days Adam worked harder than any of the men, hardly eating, and with only a few odd dozes at night. The inevitable effect was to slow down his reactions so he was too slow to move when a tree fell and bounced off the ground moving off at a tangent. Johnny grabbed his arm and yanked the larger man out of the way but the tree caught Adam’s right leg, scraping right down the shin. Adam collapsed as his leg wouldn’t support him and Johnny helped him up and over to the fire.

 

The older man, well used to minor injuries round the timber camps, knelt down and gently felt the leg “Don’t think it’s broken Adam.”

 

“Thanks Johnny. That was stupid I just wasn’t paying any attention.”

 

“Happens when you’re exhausted.” Johnny patted the younger man’s shoulder “Relax a minute while I get some hot water, need to clean that up. Reckon I’m gonna have to cut your pants.”

 

Adam sighed looking at his pants “Pity I liked this pair just got them comfortable, okay go ahead, there not any good for anything but rags now.”

 

Johnny slit the seam and gently eased the material and dirt from the tree trunk out of the wound. Adam’s shin was torn and bruised from the knee practically to the ankle, with a glimmer of bone in one or two places but at least the bone didn’t seem to be broken. Eventually Johnny was satisfied that he had it as clean as he could get it and picked up the whiskey bottle “Gonna hurt Adam but you don’t want no infection.”

 

“Just get on with it.” Adam clenched his teeth as the spirit burnt into the wound and then tried to relax as Johnny bound up the wound. “Best I can do for you Adam but you oughta head into town get Doc to have a look.”

 

“It’s nothing I’ve had a gashed shin before. Doubtless will again. Now let’s get on.” Adam was limping heavily by the end of the day but he was still doing his share and more.

 

At the house Hoss was spending every minute he could spare with Payne, who seemed to have an endless series of tales about the trail drive and especially about Inger. Hoss was delighted to hear about his mother, he had, over the years, heard every memory that his father or elder brother could dredge up and, after his uncle Gunnar died, had resigned himself to never knowing anything more. Now Payne had stories which often tied up with things Adam or his Pa had told him but there was that bit more, a different point of view and sometimes Payne had been there as his mother looked after Payne’s son or chatted with his wife when noone else was.

 

Ben enjoyed his middle son’s delight and just assumed that his other sons were busy. Joe had rather left it to Hoss; it was part of his big brother’s past but only very indirectly part of his own. Joe was far more concerned about his eldest brother and had just about decided to ride up to the lumber camp and join him when he saw Adam in town, just coming out of Doc’s. Joe had been sent in for the mail and the last person he expected to see in town was his brother, but Adam had found his leg painful enough to decide not to take any chances so he had come to see Doc.

 

Doc had checked the wound and wasn’t surprised to find it was painful but Johnny had done a good job on cleaning it up and only time would really help. Apart from a few stitches in the worst two cuts and a rather neater bandage there was nothing he could do. He did offer some painkillers but wasn’t surprised when Adam turned them down. Studying his old friend Paul said, “Both as a doctor and as a friend you look as though you could do with some sleep Adam. If it’s keeping you awake maybe you ought to change your mind.”

 

“Just been busy Paul I’m fine.”

 

As Adam walked out of Doc’s he saw his little brother across the street and cursed softly under his breath, but avoiding Joe would just make him more curious and Adam limped over to join his brother. Joe hurried over to join him “What happened to you?”

 

“Nothing serious just an argument with a tree-trunk, cut and bruised nothing broken.”

 

“You sure you’re alright big brother?”

 

“I’m sure, now come on I’ll buy you a beer.”

 

Joe grinned, “You sure that tree didn’t hit your head? Suddenly getting all generous.” Adam cuffed his brother in fun and then led the way over to the Palace. After a couple of beers Adam had relaxed a little but that just made his exhaustion more apparent. Joe knew he was pushing his luck but he couldn’t hide his concern “You ain’t going back to the lumber camp are you?”

 

“Only came to town to collect some more stores I need to deliver them.”

 

“I can take them. You ought to go home, get some rest.” Joe bit back the other comments that came to mind and, as Adam hesitated, he thought for a moment he’d won. Adam stared down into his beer “Pa still got visitors?”

 

Joe frowned “If you mean Payne, yeah he’s still there, seems to be settled in.” He gripped Adam’s arm “Why are you trying to avoid that guy? Sure he talks a lot and seems real lazy but…”

 

Adam had pulled away “I don’t want to talk about it Joe. I’m going back to the lumber camp.”

 

“Then I’m coming with you.”

 

“Don’t need two of us. Johnny is a good man.”

 

“I know that and I don’t think he really needs either of us, but it isn’t fair on Johnny to leave him the responsibility of an injured, exhausted man. I’m coming to look after you.”

 

Adam lost his temper at that and walked away from his brother, but he was limping heavily and Joe had no difficulty in keeping up. Adam turned on him “Just go on home Joe I have been looking after myself for a good number of years. I don’t need a little brother hanging around fussing.”

 

Joe gripped his arm “Adam you have three choices. You go on home and I’ll deliver the stores. You go to the lumber camp and I come with you or we both go home and get someone to take the stores up to the camp.”

Adam stopped and looked at his little brother but he knew Joe well and when he had that expression on his face nothing was going to change his mind. Knowing that Joe was right and he would be more of a liability than a help at the lumber camp he made up his mind. “Alright you win. I’ll borrow Cochise and go home, if you will bring Sport back for me.”

 

“Sure brother, you take it real easy on the way home Cooch will look after you.”

 

“Just don’t let Sport get too full of himself.”

 

Joe helped his brother up on the pinto and watched him leave town before getting on the wagon and heading out on the long ride to the timber camp.

 

Adam took his time on the ride home, for once in his life he really didn’t want to be at the house. All too many memories assailed him and he could feel again the pain of that six-year old boy, desperately trying to look after his grieving father and new-born brother. While he was awake Adam knew that Payne couldn’t hurt him any more but in the dead of night, it was the scared six-year old boy, who woke up close to screaming.

 

Ben was checking out the horses in the corral to see what shoes needed changed while Hoss was busy at the blacksmith’s forge in the barn when they heard a horse coming in. As soon as they realised that it was Adam on his youngest brother’s horse all thought of work fled and they headed for him. Despite running Ben was behind Hoss as his big son reached Adam but he was in time to hear Hoss ask “Are you alright brother? Where’s Little Joe?”

 

To Ben’s relief, Adam just grinned, “Calm down both of you. I just met Joe in town and he’s doing me a favour. He’s fine.”

 

Adam eased himself out of the saddle and accepted Hoss’ help to get down. His mask was back in place hiding his confusion and most of the tiredness but he did wince as his foot hit the ground. “I met Joe in town. I was collecting fresh stores for the timber camp and checking with Doc. Caught a tree trunk across my leg, it’s cut and bruised but no real harm done. Joe offered to swap, take the stores up to the camp and bring Sport back for me while I came home on Cochise with the mail. Joe wasn’t exactly going to take no for an answer.”

 

Ben studied his eldest son for a moment almost sure that Adam was hiding something from him, but for now it seemed more important to get his son inside and check the damage. He called Kirk over “Please take Cochise, Hoss help your brother in.”

 

Adam smiled ruefully “I am quite capable of walking Pa and I promised little brother to look after that pinto.”

 

“You can check later once I’ve seen the damage. “ Ben insisted in a tone, which warned his sons he wasn’t in the mood to discuss matters.

 

Hoss took matters into his own hands pulling Adam’s arm round his own broad shoulders and walking Adam inside. He was about to take Adam over to the sofa when Payne stood up and Adam tensed up and murmured “Help me up to my room please Hoss.”

 

Hoss did as he was asked but he had been too close to his brother to miss the sudden tension and the only possible cause was Payne. Thinking about that he realised just how much his brother had been avoiding the man ever since he arrived and Hoss, like Ben, knew there was something going on that he didn’t know about and was determined to change that state of affairs. For now he concentrated on Adam’s physical condition helping him out of the torn jeans and then knelt down to lift Adam’s swollen heavily bandaged leg up onto the bed “Looks as though you made a real mess of this. Those bandages do they need changing?”

 

Adam shook his head “Doc did it in town, it’ll hold until tomorrow.”

 

“Just how bad is it?”

 

“Bruised and sore. Doc put half a dozen stitches in a couple of cuts but that’s the worst of it. Promise.”

 

“Then why did you wanna come up here?”

 

Adam indicated the jeans his brother was holding “Need to change, dig me out a fresh pair will you.”

 

Hoss accepted that and then as his father came in Hoss retreated, barely needing the look his father gave him. Adam lent back against the headboard holding his clean jeans and grinning broadly at his father “Hi Pa.”

 

Ben frowned and gently touched his leg “Since when did you let your little brother tell you what to do?”

 

“Since he started talking sense and when I’m feeling a mite sore. Pa I am fine. Doc has checked, no real damage and tomorrow, when the dressing needs changing, you can do it and satisfy your curiosity, but just now do you mind if I finish getting changed?”

 

Ben grinned and gently squeezed his eldest son’s shoulder “See you downstairs. Payne will be pleased to see you; we have been having a fine time reminiscing. Your brother is enjoying hearing some new stories about this mother.”

 

Somehow Adam managed a smile “Sure Pa I just want to get washed up first.” Ben left him to it and Adam wondered if he could just fall asleep on the bed, escape dinner. He was certainly tired enough but then if the nightmare came he might not be able to hide it from his father and whatever else happened he couldn’t let his father know the truth. It was as impossible now as it had been for that six-year old child; just the reasons were a little different. Then his father was grieving for Inger but Adam knew his father felt guilty that he hadn’t been able to provide his eldest son with the material possessions and the security that he had managed for his youngest and to a certain extent for Hoss. Ben had been forced to ask Adam to grow up too fast and Adam knew if his father found out now that he hadn’t even protected his young son successfully that it would hurt far more than the bruises had ever hurt.

 

Adam waited as long as he dared and then with mask firmly in place he went to join his family at table. Joe wasn’t back and might well not make it until morning; he would doubtless eat up at the lumber camp. Adam took his usual place and then to his horror found Payne move to sit next to him. It was hardly surprising as it was the normal position for a guest but with his little brother away he had assumed the man would use Joe’s place. Adam felt as though something was crawling across his skin as Payne sat down and it took all his considerable will power not to cringe away from Payne but his stomach was churning and he really didn’t want any food.

 

Barely taking in the conversation at table Adam took the bare minimum he thought he could get away with and tried to spread it across his plate, grateful that his father and Hoss were both laughing at another of Payne’s stories. Adam forced a smile on his own face and then sat back wondering how long he would have to stay down to keep his father from being suspicious. In a way it was easier as he concentrated on the pleasure showing on his big brother’s face and it slowly dawned on him that this was another person who must never be allowed to find out.

 

Suddenly Adam realised everyone was quiet and they were all looking at him. He put his fork down “Sorry I must be more tired than I thought. I was half asleep didn’t hear what you said.”

 

Payne’s voice seemed to grate on him as the older man asked whether he remembered the foal that Ingrid had helped into the world and the way it followed her. Adam’s smile wasn’t forced as he thought about it and he chuckled “I’m not quite sure that foal had things worked out, it seemed to think it had two mothers one to feed it and one to pet it. Used to run between the horse and Ma. Do you remember Pa when Ma got into the wagon that little foal tried to jump in too?”

 

Hoss laughed at the vision that conjured up and as Hop Sing came in to collect the plates and bring the dessert Adam managed to drape his napkin across his plate and get rid of it and not even Ben realised he had barely touched the food. Adam poured out coffee and didn’t bother with pie that wasn’t particularly unusual; he didn’t have such a sweet tooth as his brothers. Making the excuse that his leg was sore he went over to his favourite blue chair put his leg up on the table and settled down with a book. He was careful to turn the pages over at regular intervals but he had no idea at all what he was reading.

 

Ben and Hoss had stayed at the table chatting with Payne for another hour but moved over by the fire as Ben got out the brandy. That was one offer that Adam wasn’t going to refuse. As Ben passed him the glass he studied his eldest son “You look worn out Adam why don’t you have an early night?”

 

“I think I might Pa.”

 

“Do you need any pain killers for that leg?”

 

“No thanks it’s just sore, nothing much. I might just have a refill of this before I go up.”

 

Ben laughed “Help yourself.” Twenty minutes later Adam headed upstairs, doing his best not to limp and once in his room he did something he rarely did and locked the door. Scared of nightmares which might wake the whole house Adam sat down by the window, later when everyone was quiet he’d slip out up into the woods with his bedroll and try to get some sleep there.

 

Joe had delivered the stores up to the lumber camp and sitting over dinner he managed to find out just how his brother had been hurt. He also heard how Adam had taken to going off alone over night and just how tired his brother appeared to be. That crystallised Joe’s own thinking and he decided he needed to get home and after he had had coffee he collected Sport and set out for the house. Joe wasn’t at all sure what was going on with his eldest brother but it seemed he was the only person who had noticed anything and just maybe Adam would break the habit of a lifetime and let him help.

 

Joe didn’t often ride his brother’s temperamental chestnut and it took him a few minutes to settle Sport who didn’t like anyone other than his usual master. Once Joe had exerted his control he sat back and quite enjoyed the feel of the large powerful animal provided Sport was able to go at his own pace and not be slowed down he was a very smooth ride and certainly covered the ground. Even in the dark the trail was well defined and with Adam’s propensity for riding in the dark Sport was used to it and seemed to know he was heading home to his own stable.

 

It was late when Joe got back and the house was in darkness as he led Sport into the stable to give him a brush down and then get to bed himself. As he came out of the barn he saw a figure disappearing up into the trees and despite the darkness and the brief glimpse he had seen Joe knew it was his eldest brother. It was the same behaviour that Johnny had described and Joe could only imagine that his brother felt the need to stay away because he was still having nightmares and didn’t want anyone to know.

 

Joe hesitated for a minute knowing how little Adam liked interference in his private affairs but Joe knew he wouldn’t sleep until he had at least spoken to his brother so he followed.

Adam heard someone coming and slipped behind a tree but then he heard his little brother softly call his name. Angry that he had been found out  Adam moved out folding his arms as he lent against a tree “What are you doing here Joe?”

 

Joe startled turned barely able to spot his brother in his black clothes against the tree “I could ask the same thing! I saw you come up here as I came out of the stable and “ Joe hesitated but Adam knew him too well for anything but the truth to serve “I was worried about you wanted to make sure you were alright.”

 

Adam could hear the deep concern in his brother’s voice and the anger melted away “No need to worry about me I’m fine. Its a long ride up to the camp and back you must be tired go to bed Joe I’ll be in in a bit.”

 

“Then why have you brought your bed roll out?”

 

“Not now Joe.”

 

“You can’t carry on like this big brother you have to talk to someone. If you won’t talk to Pa or Hoss then let me help. I’m not a child anymore and in this case I’m not as involved as the rest of you.”

 

“I don’t know what you mean.” Adam prevaricated, but his brother just gave a short laugh “Of course you don’t. I won’t push it now Adam but please think about my offer.”

Joe moved over and gently gripped his brother’s arm “I don’t like to see you making yourself sick, please let me help.” Then he headed back to the house to his own bed.

 

Adam settled down and stared up at the stars, his little brother’s affection helped and he dozed off and slept for nearly two hours before the nightmares came and he woke up sweating and knowing he had been making at least some noise. He walked around trying to calm down but he knew he wouldn’t sleep again that night. Eventually standing over by the corral watching the horses as they slept he felt rather better and he thought back to Joe’s comments. Joe obviously suspected something and maybe his brother was right and he could help. Joe was right about one thing Adam accepted that he couldn’t go on as he was. He slipped back up to his room and washed and changed, feeling rather more human for a shave. Then hearing Hop Sing moving around Adam went down for coffee. He headed out to do the barn chores and avoid breakfast, leaving word with Hop Sing that he was going to check the herd in the south pasture.

 

Joe was down very early for him beating the rest of his family and their guest. Hop Sing hustled in with food and coffee and Joe asked, “Have you seen Adam?”

 

“He gone already. South Pasture, check herd.”

 

“Did he have any breakfast?”

 

Hop Sing shook his head “Needs eat. You take lunch to him?”

 

“I sure will you make up a nice lunch for him and me and this time I’ll make sure big brother eats it.”

 

By mutual agreement the two men cut short their discussion as Ben and Hoss came downstairs and Joe joined them for breakfast. Shortly after that Payne appeared and Hoss suggested that he show their guest the small Hereford herd that he had been breeding, hoping to cross them with the local cattle and improve the herd. Ben was quite happy for his son to take the time, knowing just how much Hoss was enjoying this link with his mother.

Joe sat back not commenting until Hoss left with Payne and then poured more coffee for both himself and his father. “Pa, how long is Mr Payne going to stay?”

 

Ben was surprised by that question and pushed his chair back to study his youngest son

“Strange question Joseph. Mr Payne is an old friend and he is very welcome. I am thinking of going into business with him, railroad business.”

 

“What does Adam think?”

 

Ben glared at his youngest son “Your eldest brother does not make the business decisions round here.”

 

“Sorry Pa, but you always say that Adam has a good business head.”

 

“Well I don’t need him in this, I have known Joe Payne for more than twenty years.”

 

Joe considered his father, but he could also see his eldest brother’s exhausted face in the dim light the previous evening. “Pa, that’s not really true. You knew Mr Payne for a few months twenty years ago.”

Ben got to his feet, anger very clear in every line of his body, “I am very disappointed in you Joseph. I know the time that Mr Payne talks about was well before your birth and you may not be interested, but can’t you see how much it means to your brothers and to me?”

 

“Pa, I know how much Hoss is enjoying it but you have more than one son.”

 

Ben felt like taking a strap to him as he said “I know that and the youngest is disappointing me more than he has done in a long time.”

 

Joe found himself talking to his father’s back as Ben turned and angrily walked away “Pa I wasn’t talking about me.”

 

Joe gave up, if he couldn’t get through to his father maybe he could persuade Adam to talk to him. One thing Joe was very sure about, he didn’t thing that the ranch should get involved with Payne, he didn’t trust their guest further than he could throw him.

 

Joe went out into the kitchen to get the lunch Hop Sing had promised and Hop Sing passed over a large package. “You make sure Mister Adam eat, he not touch food last night. You make him talk Little Joe, he need sleep, not get until he talk. You only one he can talk to.”

 

Joe gripped the little man’s shoulder affectionately, “You and I know that, now the only problem is to make big brother see it. I sure will try.” Joe went out to saddle Cochise wondering why his father and Hoss were so oblivious of what was going on, when it was so obvious to him and Hop Sing. He knew that Adam was a good actor and could hide his feelings, but even so he felt his father should be able to see what was happening. Still it left it up to him to help and Joe headed out to find his brother.

 

Adam was exactly where he had said, checking over the herd on the South pasture, and he cursed under his breath as he saw his brother riding up, knowing exactly what Joe wanted.

Joe came over “Hop Sing said you forgot to bring your lunch, so I thought I’d bring it, see if I can help.”

 

The other wranglers shrugged at that it wasn’t exactly unusual and they moved back to get on with their work, the momentary hope that Joe’s arrival indicated something more interesting vanishing.

 

Joe didn’t push just working alongside his brother until it got to lunchtime. Adam yelled at the other hands to take a break and then turned to look quizzically at Joe. He had been waiting for Joe to start questioning him ever since his brother’s arrival and guessed now would signal Joe’s chance. However when Joe started to talk he took his eldest brother totally by surprise.

 

Joe lent on the saddle horn and considered his brother, “You once promised that any time I needed your help, you would find the time. In all the years since that promise you have never let me down. Now I’m asking again.”

 

It was the one plea that Adam couldn’t turn down, remembering that promise given to a distraught little boy when first his mother died and then his father seemed to cut himself off from the family. “Alright Joe what do you want?”

 

“The men can cope this afternoon, will you ride up to the lake with me? Please?”

 

Adam nodded and he moved over to the men issuing detailed orders for the afternoon work and then swung up on Sport, favouring his leg a little but moving easily enough with the chestnut as the brothers headed up to the lake.

 

Once there, Joe busied himself making a fire and putting coffee onto heat before getting out the food “Hop Sing is getting worried. He says I’m to make you eat all the sandwiches and from what Johnny said you sure ought to be hungry.”

 

Adam tensed up, “I didn’t come here for you to fuss at me. I came because you said you wanted help.”

 

Joe put the package down and settled back his arms behind his neck, “I do Adam. You see I have this older brother, who means an awful lot to me, and he is making himself sick. I need to know how to help him.” Joe turned on his side resting on one elbow and looking up at his brother. “It’s really worrying me Adam, partly because it seems that along with Hop Sing and the hands, I’m the only person who has noticed anything is wrong and I find that very hard to understand.”

 

Adam was quick in defence, “Don’t start blaming Pa or Hoss I can be a good actor when I want, guess I haven’t bothered in front of you.”

 

“Could that be because you really want to talk and if you won’t talk to Pa or Hoss, that only leaves me?”

 

Adam stared down at his little brother, not quite 18, and then slowly settled down next to Joe “Just when did you do all this growing up little brother? You’re right I can’t carry on like this. I know it’s ridiculous. Payne can’t do anything to me I’m a grown man, but in the middle of the night, in my dreams, I seem to revert to a six year old boy.”

 

“What did Payne do to that six year old boy brother? I’ve seen you almost cringe away from him as though his very presence causes pain. I know you very well Adam and I’ve hardly ever seen you showing fear and when you do there’s always an excellent reason, until now.”

 

Adam sat up hugging his knees and staring out over the lake. “There were only four wagons on the way to Ash Hollow, ours with Pa, Inger and me, the Paynes, him, his wife and young Tommy who was about my age. Then there were Simon and Rachel, funny I can’t even remember their surname, and the Elliotts, husband and wife and a hired hand. I enjoyed having Tommy around. It wasn’t often that there was another kid to play with and if we did stop in towns, everyone else knew each other and I was the odd one out. Once I got to know people it was always time to move on.”

 

Adam bit his lip, revealing more than he had intended, but his little brother just gently gripped his arm and didn’t say anything letting Adam go on in his own time. “There weren’t any real problems for me until Tommy died. Oh I knew Pa was worried but Ma was there and for once she could look after him, we were a real family.”

 

Joe would have liked to ask more about that comment but had the sense to sit quiet and just let Adam reveal what he was ready to give. It was fully five minutes before Adam went on. “Payne seemed to blame me for being alive when his son had died. I think he hated me. Ma was pregnant and Pa was very worried, it was a rough journey and Rockwell, our guide didn’t give any consideration to women, pregnant or not, he pushed hard and they had to keep up.”

 

Joe bit his lip, thinking that a six-year old child must have found it very hard to keep up too, but he didn’t dare say anything.

 

“Payne had a switch, well all the men did to keep the animals on the move. Anytime he got near me he used that switch. Always careful to keep it where it wouldn’t show, the back of my calves and thighs and his favourite was round the ribs just above my belt. Places where I could hide it from Ma and Pa. I don’t think I was ever free of bruises and once or twice, if I slipped when he hit me, then he would use his boot, thinking back I’m sure at least once he cracked some ribs. I remember having to breathe shallowly or it hurt for ten days or so, but in those days I didn’t know what it meant.” Adam grinned ruefully, “Sounds daft put that way a few bruises I don’t know why it bothers me now. If he took a switch to me now I’d bend it round his ears and I’ve been really hurt since, bullets, falls you know what I mean. He didn’t really do any harm.”

 

Joe couldn’t help the protest, “Adam, you were barely six.”

 

Adam patted his brother’s arm, “Don’t you remember? You used to tell me often enough six years old is real grown up.”

 

Adam was quiet for fully ten minutes and Joe began to thing he had said all he was willing to, but then Adam said, “We finally reached Ash Hollow.”

 

Joe bit his lip “Hoss’ mother died there didn’t she?”

 

“It was the end of the road, success. We had arrived at the way station. We were supposed to meet a bigger train there and head on to Fort Laramie, but they had already left. When we heard it was the first time I saw tears on Ma’s face.” Adam shook his head “For a few minutes it seemed so important and then the Indians appeared. I didn’t really understand why at the time. Noone told me about the fight Rockwell had and the man he killed until probably ten years later. I just knew it was dangerous. Inger put Hoss in my arms and huddled over us in the corner but then Rockwell was hit and she kissed me, told me to look after Hoss, and went to help the men, reloading, even firing the rifles.”

 

Adam pulled himself to his feet and moved over to the edge, staring out unseeingly over the lake. Joe moved up close to his brother and put his arm round Adam’s shoulders “I think you need to finish this story Adam.”

 

“I’ve never even told Hoss.”

 

“It wasn’t my mother, just Hoss’ and yours.”

 

Adam turned at that and stared at Joe, “My mother died in Boston.”

 

“Maybe but Inger was the only mother you really knew as a kid. By the time my Ma came along you might only have been a child in years but I reckon you had had to grow up.”

 

Adam felt the tears stinging his eyes as his little brother came closer to the truth than his father and Hoss ever had, despite how well they knew him. Fighting for control he turned on his heels and stared at the lake but Joe was right he needed to talk. Joe had to strain to hear as he carried on very quietly. “I saw the arrow take her in the back. She fell. Rockwell broke the arrow off and turned her over, but I think I knew even then that I’d lost my family again. Pa knelt and held her and suddenly he was crying. I never remembered Pa crying. I don’t know how much I understood at the time when Rockwell spoke to Pa, but I knew he was going out to die and that he was doing it to save me and Hoss. I pulled the blanket back so he could see Hoss’ face and he smiled at us and then he was gone.” Adam bit his lip and rubbed his hand across his eyes, he wasn’t going to give in to tears, he was a grown man not that scared boy.

Joe just gripped his arm aware of tears in his own eyes, but far less bothered about them than his eldest brother.

 

“I sat there for what seemed hours, Ma’s blood trickled towards us and then Hoss started fussing, he was hungry. Eventually Rachel came and picked him up and took my hand and led me out. I couldn’t eat, but Hoss did.”

 

Joe giggled, glad of the light relief, “Nothing’s changed then!”

 

Adam gripped his brother’s shoulder glad of the chance to get control and he even managed a smile. Eventually he went on “There had to be two funerals the next day. I asked Pa if I could go but I don’t think he even knew I was there. Still he didn’t say no. Payne said it was stupid nobody needed a kid under foot. He gave me a tremendous back-hander and knocked me off my feet.” Adam gently felt his cheek, remembering the painful bruises.

 

“Where was Pa?”

 

“He was standing there, but although his body was there, his brain was off somewhere with Inger. I don’t know how much you remember of the weeks just after your mother died?”

 

“Too much in some ways I know Pa was never there, but I had you and Hoss, especially you.” Joe sat and stared at his big brother as he suddenly put together things that he had known but never related. “I was four and I was devastated. Pa never came but you did. When I had nightmares or was scared you came and Hoss helped where he could. Hoss was older than you were when Inger died and most of the time you looked after him too. Who looked after you and Hoss when Inger died?”

 

“Rachel and Mrs Payne made sure we were fed and had clean clothes, especially Hoss, he got through more diapers that any other baby, or at least I thought so at the time.”

 

“Who came when you had nightmares?”

 

Adam shrugged, “I had to look after Hoss, there wasn’t time for nightmares.”

 

Joe showed his disbelief at that but didn’t push it, “And Payne?”

 

“We pushed on, fast as we could, to try and catch up with the bigger train. The trail was clear enough, lots of wagons, and everyone was scared so we pushed hard. I tried to keep out of his way and as I had to look after Hoss, that wasn’t too hard during the day I drove the wagon most of the time with Hoss just behind me.”

Joe stared at him in disbelief, “You were six.”

 

“I was always behind one of the others and the horses sorta followed on, if things got hard Pa came back and helped. There wasn’t anyone else.”

 

“What about Pa?”

 

“Someone had to act as scout now that we’d lost our guide.”

 

“Well yeah I can understand that but why Pa? He had two young kids and noone else to tend them, from what you said all the other men were only responsible for a full grown woman or even nobody.”

 

“Pa didn’t want to be round us just then.”

 

Joe showed his compassion for his brother “Oh Adam.” He stared at his eldest brother, remembering how grateful he had been for his eldest brother when his Pa had turned in on himself. Adam not very much older, hadn’t had anyone, and had been responsible for a young baby. Joe saw his brother withdraw and he quickly turned back to the main point, “What about Payne?”

 

“He seemed to find it amusing, during the day it was just sly comments and the occasional switch across my thighs, but it was my job to collect firewood and each time we stopped I had to go and find some. Payne used to follow me, it gave him a chance to use his favourite switch and he could take what I’d collected. I’d have to start again.”

 

“Didn’t Pa notice?”

 

“Sometimes yelled at me for being so slow.”

 

“Why didn’t you tell him Adam?”

 

“He was grieving.”

 

“So were you.”

 

Adam smiled at his little brother being so protective of that six-year old child Adam had once been. “I couldn’t Joe. All my life I had been trying to protect Pa. I thought I was grown up, looking after Hoss, but even before that. I always tried to hide it if I was tired or hungry. Pa had such a hard time; there wasn’t any money for the journey. So often he had to take any job he could just to give me food and I know he went without many a night, so that I had something even if it was just bread and milk. I had to stay in the wagon or a small room in a lodging house while he worked and try not to let him see how much I needed him to come home. I was not going to make matters worse while he was in such pain over Ma’s death.”

Joe thought about that for a long minute and he studied his brother. Ben had told him more than once that Adam had had to grow up fast, when he had grown impatient at his serious older brother, only now did he dimly begin to understand what his father had meant.

 

“When did Payne leave?”

 

 

“At Fort Laramie. Much to my delight he joined a group going to Oregon while we carried onto California. Pa was taking more interest in us, which was a good thing as I could barely carry Hoss by then. He grew fast, nearly broke my arms as I lugged him around. Things slowly improved and the bruises healed as we headed on towards our new home here. I didn’t give Payne another thought until I saw him sitting by the fire.”

 

“Okay I guess I can understand why you didn’t tell Pa back then but why don’t you tell him now? Payne would be out without his boots touching the ground.”

 

“I can’t do that.”

 

“Why not?”

 

“You’ve seen how much Hoss is enjoying hearing about his mother.”

 

“Are the stories true?”
Adam considered that, he had only heard a few of them having deliberately kept his distance. “Maybe he exaggerates, tells things he wasn’t involved in as though he was there, but I haven’t heard any lies.”

 

“Even so Hoss would be the first to say throw him out if he knew what Payne did to you.”

“Which is why you won’t say a word little brother. Nothing can change the bruises I took as a six year old and he hasn’t hurt me now.”

 

“You hurt yourself, because you’re so tired and hardly eating.”

 

“Memories Joe, noone else is responsible for my memories. I think having talked it out I feel better. You were right.”

 

“Even if you won’t tell Hoss at least tell Pa, he can ease Payne out quietly.”

 

“No!”

 

Adam turned away angrily but Joe wasn’t having that and grabbed his arm “You’ve explained the rest to me now explain that comment.”

 

Adam stared at the lake for a minute but he decided Joe deserved an answer, “Pa sometimes blames himself because he couldn’t give me quite the same security and material possessions he managed for you and to a lesser extent Hoss. It was circumstances and if he hadn’t had the strength to follow his dream after my mother died, we wouldn’t have the Ponderosa and I probably wouldn’t have two brothers to torment me and,” Adam hesitated, then smiled down at his little brother “ And to look after me. He did the best he could at the time and noone can do more. I will never make him feel bad about that.”

 

Joe could understand that but he wanted Payne out of his house. “Okay so we can’t use what he did in the past to get rid of him, but do you trust him?”

 

Adam shook his head “No. Why?”

“Pa is thinking of going into business with him, railroad business. I suggested he talk to you about it and he nearly bit my head off.”

 

Adam considered that and didn’t like the idea at all. “Right Little Brother I think you and I are going into town and we’ll run a few checks on Mr Payne. I’ll let him away with what he did in the past but he’s not going to get his hand on any part of the Ponderosa.”

 

Joe grinned happily, seeing the brother he knew back, light of battle in his eyes and very willing to go along and do anything at all that he could to help. As they headed towards town Joe spotted one of their hands and cut over to Hank giving him a message for their father to say that both he and Adam would be staying in town overnight. When he rejoined his brother Adam raised a questioning eyebrow. Joe grinned, “Just staying on the right side of Hop Sing for once, letting him know that we won’t be in for supper.”

 

Adam nodded, accepting what Joe said and for once not noticing the slightly guilty look his younger brother wore, as he tried to decide how best to get the information he wanted. By the time they reached town he had decided exactly who to contact, starting with Roy Coffee and Mr Harris, the bank manager. Roy wasn’t in his office but Adam helped himself to some coffee and then wrote out a short telegram and gave it to Joe along with a list of seven names, three in San Francisco, one in Placerville and the other three in Sacramento. He sent Joe off to the telegraph office and sat down to wait for Roy, arranging to meet up at the Palace later. Adam was glad of a few minutes alone as he waited for Roy, thinking back over the events of the day with his little brother seemingly growing up in front of his eyes. Adam was honest enough to realise that Joe hadn’t changed, maybe he had just finally noticed his little brother was full-grown.

 

Roy came in and considered his old friend, Adam was lost in thought as he sipped coffee. Roy was worried, Adam hadn’t even noticed him coming in which was most unusual and having relaxed a little his exhaustion was even more apparent. Roy came over and gripped his shoulder, “What’s wrong Adam?”

 

“I’m not sure Roy, but I need to find out.”

 

Adam got up and went over to top up his coffee and, when Roy nodded, got him one as well. Roy had taken his own seat and Adam perched on the corner of the desk, “I need your help Roy but it has to be kept quiet, just between us.”

 

“Well now that depends Adam. I’m gonna have to have a few more details ‘fore I can agree to that.”

 

Adam knew that Roy was well within his rights and he had to trust in the sheriff. “Okay Look I’m worried about the guy we have staying with us, Joe Payne. He wants Pa to get involved in some railway deal. I just want to find out a little more about him and about the deal.”

 

“I thought your Pa had known him for twenty years?”

 

Adam shrugged “More precisely he knew him for a short time more than twenty years ago.”

 

“You knew him too didn’t you?”

 

“I was a young kid, Hoss just born.” Adam turned away not wanting Roy to read anything in his face, but the wily old sheriff spotted the tension in his whole body and backed off. “Okay son you got my help and I won’t say nothing to your Pa.”

 

“Or Hoss.”

 

“Okay Hoss too. What about Little Joe?”

 

“He’s helping me. Could you get in touch with some of your colleagues and check if they know anything about him?”

 

“What do you suspect?”

 

“I’m not sure, maybe he’s just talking big, but just maybe he’s a con-man. If so he’s probably done it before.”

 

“I’ll get started right away. You staying in town tonight?”

 

“Not sure, but I’ll be back tomorrow. Thanks Roy.” Adam headed across the street to the bank and was in luck as Mr Harris was alone in his office. The bank manager knew that Adam dealt with many of the business matters for the ranch and wasn’t particularly surprised when Adam asked him what he knew about the railway project being suggested by Payne. Mr Harris frowned, “Your father mentioned it to me, but he wasn’t very clear on the details. All he said was that it was a proposed line from Carson City to Placerville.”

 

“Didn’t say who the surveyor was?”

 

“No sorry. Why don’t you ask your father?”

 

“We’ve been a mite busy and I haven’t seen a lot of him recently, thought I’d get a few checks started. I just need the name of the proposed road, Pa mentioned two or three different ones.”

 

Harris went and got out a slim file. “I made a few notes when Ben first mentioned it, he said it was the California/Nevada road but there wasn’t a surveyor mentioned.”

 

“Did you run any checks?”

 

“I offered but your father didn’t seem to think it was necessary.”

 

Adam rubbed his hand across his mouth, trying to think how to phrase it without being too obvious but there was no real way, and he said briefly, “I never like to make investments without knowing exactly who I’m dealing with.”

 

“Sensible. I take it you’d like me to make all the usual checks?”

 

“Yes please and could you report the results to me?”

 

Harris frowned slightly seeing everything Adam didn’t want him to, but he knew just how much Ben trusted his eldest son and as he had been worried by Ben’s attitude he was glad to see Adam taking an interest. “Certainly Adam, I know Ben is very busy just now.”

 

Adam was more grateful for the banker’s attitude than he could have said but for once it was clear on his face. It seemed that his acting ability was at a low ebb with lack of sleep. Grateful for the help he’d been offered Adam headed over to the saloon to join his brother and get a beer. To his surprise Joe wasn’t there yet so Adam got a beer and went over to a corner table. He said hello to Dan de Quille but shook his head at Dan’s offer of a seat, the last thing he needed at the moment was the reporter’s questions.

 

Joe came in five minutes later and, grabbing a beer, he joined his brother. Joe had been delayed by a side trip to the International house, where he had booked a room for the night. He sat down and downed half his beer, “All telegrams sent and Frank will bring over any answers. I told him we’d be at the International having a meal.”

 

“Don’t expect there will be anything much at least until tomorrow.”

 

Joe carefully bent his head over his glass not catching his brother’s eye, “That’s why I thought it was sensible to take a room for the night.”

 

Adam was close to panic at that thought, the last thing he needed was to disturb a whole hotel and have his nightmares become common knowledge. “No. You can use it, I’m going home.”

 

“Well at least let’s go eat.” Adam accepted that much but he was still not really hungry and pushed his plate away more than half full. Joe finished his own and then asked, “At least come upstairs with me and let me have my say before you head home.”

 

Adam nodded, he owed his little brother that much. Joe went up and stared out of the window,  letting Adam have privacy, “Adam you’re gonna sleep out again aren’t you?”

Adam wouldn’t answer, he wouldn’t admit it, but couldn’t deny it.

 

Joe very tentatively said, “You’ve gotta get some sleep big brother. Maybe having talked things out you might sleep tonight anyway.”

 

“And if I don’t? I can’t risk waking the whole hotel!”

 

Joe turned and went over to his brother, who had sunk down on the bed. Joe gripped his shoulders “Look I’ll be here. If you start making a noise I’ll wake you up.”

 

Adam smiled at his brother “Joe you’d sleep through an earthquake. I could probably wake the whole place before I woke you.”

 

“I’ll stay awake, if that’s what it takes.” Joe said earnestly and Adam couldn’t help responding to the affection so clear on his brother’s face. “Okay little brother I’ll risk it, if you will. Maybe you’re right I do feel a lot better for talking and I am tired.”

 

“Settle down, I’ll join you in a bit and I’ll wake you if any news comes in.”

 

Adam gripped his brother’s neck affectionately for a moment and then pulled his boots off and settled down. Joe tucked a cover round him and went to settle down by the window looking out, but seeing the six year old boy on the long trek across the country. It was very late when he slipped in next to Adam, but his brother was still sleeping peacefully. Joe had a very restless night, but Adam didn’t stir and woke up the following morning feeling one hundred percent better. Joe was snoring quietly next to him, the blankets on the floor. Adam eased up resting on one elbow and considered his little brother, they made a good team, until now he hadn’t realised how good.

 

By the time Joe woke up Adam had arranged for coffee to be delivered to the room and breakfast was on its way. Joe slowly surfaced and gratefully took the coffee Adam offered him. Once he was fully awake he studied his brother intently. Adam smiled at him “It’s alright little brother, for once in your life you were proved right. I slept like a log and feel much better.”

 

Joe grinned broadly; “Right what do we do now?”

 

“Eat breakfast. I think I’m ready to rival Hoss this morning and then we check to see if any news has come in.”

 

That suited Joe and he made sure that he got some food even if Adam fulfilled his threat and ate ravenously. Then the brothers wended their way down to the telegraph office. Frank grinned at his friend as Joe came in, “Hey I was just about to come looking for you, answers to your telegrams have been burning up the wires.” He handed a sheaf of telegraphs to Joe, who handed half of them, over to Adam.

 

The brothers read them intently and then swapped, not that it made much difference, virtually all told the same story about the small time con-man who had got out of town just ahead of a tar and feathering. Adam collected all of them carefully and put them in his pocket. “Let’s go and see Roy.”

 

Roy had had three answers to his requests for information, all warned him about letting anyone getting involved in business dealings with him but he wasn’t actually wanted anywhere, he was small time. As Adam came in Roy passed him a sheaf of papers “A small time waster. There don’t seem to be any railroad, you just warn your Pa.”

 

Adam smiled tautly, “Pa is far too good a business man to invest in a fraud. Thanks Roy.”

 

After a cup of coffee Adam led the way over to the bank, where Mr Harris had more confirmation that there wasn’t any California/Nevada railroad. Adam thanked him for the checks he’d made and then led the way to the livery stable to collect their horses.

 

The brothers rode out in silence and they were halfway home before Joe asked the question, which had been bothering him all morning. “What do we do now?”

 

“Payne has wanted a chance to talk to me alone ever since he got here. Now he will get it!”

“What are you going to tell him?”

 

“Just let him see some of the telegrams we’ve had and make it very clear that he isn’t getting any money out of the Ponderosa. Let him move on if he will, with what reputation he has intact.”

 

“He’s a con-man and thief!”

 

“You read the telegrams same as I did. Lots of suspicion no real proof and do you want to tell Pa or Hoss what he is?”

 

Joe thought about that “But if we just drive him off won’t he just try it again on someone else?”

 

“Of course he will, in some men it’s in their blood, but we can’t protect the world. I can and will protect Pa and Hoss. From the reports we have he isn’t exactly good at it, so we put the fear of God into him and at least get him out of Nevada.”

 

Joe grinned at his brother “Sounds fair to me. What do you want me to do?”

 

“Protect my back just as you’ve been doing.” Adam gripped his brother’s arm “Made a real good job of it so far.” The affection was very clear in his voice and in his eyes and Joe felt at least ten-foot tall.

 

The brothers were in luck, Ben and Hoss had ridden out to check the main herd and Payne was on his own, sitting over a very late breakfast while Hop Sing murmured angrily under his breath. Joe looked at his oldest brother and taking Hop Sing’s arm led him into the kitchen, although once there he left the door open a crack and was listening intently. Hop Sing quickly joined him, he didn’t like Payne and knew that number one son wasn’t at ease in his presence, so now that Adam was seeking him out, Hop Sing wanted to know why.

 

Adam poured himself a coffee and pulling a chair over he turned it round, sitting down and folding his arms along the back. “Seems to me it’s about time we had a chat Mr Payne.”

 

“Bit late now for you to start complaining to your Pa, boy.” Payne sneered.

 

“I have no intention of saying anything to my Pa. On the other hand you aren’t going to be saying anything much to him either. A brief explanation of how urgent business back east means that your stay has to be cut short.”

 

“Now why should I do that? I’m real comfortable right here and your Pa and your big brother they are really enjoying me being here.”

 

“I’m not.”

 

“Yeah well you’re the same no account useless kid, who got under my feet, when my son had died. Why should you be alive when he died?”

 

“God is the only one who can answer that question.”

 

“Well I answered it then and I get the same answer now. I’d love to kill you but I ain’t no killer.”

“No just a con-man and would be thief.”

 

Payne glared at him but Adam held out the sheaf of telegrams he had in his pocket. “I could show these to my father and you might find yourself in jail, he’s not as practical as I am. Or maybe I could have them printed in town; the chief reporter on the Territorial Enterprise is a very good friend of mine. That paper would haunt you for the rest of your life. I won’t do either of those things if you explain why you’re leaving.”

 

Payne shivered as he looked through the telegrams, maybe not enough to put him in jail, but with the similar pattern in place after place, many a jury would convict him. He stared at Adam and, as his mind travelled back over the years, he knew he couldn’t expect any mercy from the kid he’d abused back then. Throughout his life he’d run whenever things got awkward and this was no different so he nodded slowly, “I’ll go pack.”

 

“Make sure you don’t take with you anything you didn’t bring here.” Adam said icily, “You make a real good job of persuading my father and brother that it’s just business calling you away.”

 

Payne glared at him but headed upstairs to do as he’d been ordered. Joe came out to join his brother as Payne reached the landing. “Do you think he’ll do as you said?”

 

Adam nodded, “He’s a coward and he’s getting out with his skin intact, I think he will. You just make sure that you don’t give anything away.”

 

Ben and Hoss came back for lunch and were surprised to see Payne’s bags packed, sitting on the credenza. Adam and Joe had taken the telegrams and headed out to the corrals to work some of the stock they were training, not wanting to be there when their father arrived. Adam had spoken to Hop Sing, who was equally determined to get Payne out of his house, and left his old friend with a watching brief. If Payne tried anything Hop Sing would fetch them.

 

Hoss frowned as Payne came down the stairs, “You leaving Mr Payne?”

 

“Yes I’m afraid I have to. A message from the telegraph in town, there is a slight problem with the right of way which needs my attention.” He smiled at the big man; “I have really enjoyed my stay with you and your father. I hope it won’t be nearly as long this time before we meet again Ben.”

 

Ben frowned hearing a very odd note in Payne’s voice but Hoss seemed to accept it at face value and so Ben let it go for now. “You’ll stop for lunch at least?”

 

“No if I head out now I’ll just make the afternoon stage for Sacramento. If I could prevail upon your good nature to loan me your buggy?”

 

“Of course, just leave it at the livery one of the boys can pick it up tomorrow.” Ben turned to his big son “Why don’t you go and get old Betsy hitched up for Mr Payne.”

 

“Sure Pa.”

 

When Hoss had gone out, Ben frowned, “Is there something wrong?”

“A problem over one of the rights of way. I thought it was all settled but you know what lawyers are like. Good job you hadn’t invested anything yet. I’d hate for you to be in on anything less than a certainty, after all your hospitality.”

 

Ben nodded slowly but somehow Payne’s words sounded false, still the man was leaving so maybe it didn’t matter and he was surprised just how glad he was as the buggy disappeared from sight. He found himself thinking it wouldn’t be a bad thing if it was another twenty years before they saw Payne again.

 

Adam and Joe watched the buggy head down the road from the training corral and grinned at each other. They had achieved what they wanted, Payne was gone and their father and brother were none the wiser. Adam moved over next to his little brother and rested his hand on Joe’s shoulder, “Thanks for being there for me Joe.”

 

Joe grinned, delighted by his brother’s comment but he just shrugged, “That’s what brothers are for!”

 

 

Tags:  Adam Cartwright, Ben Cartwright, Hoss Cartwright, Joe / Little Joe Cartwright