Horrified, Cindy held his breath. It was unwise to her stepmother could realize that she intended. To punish her, she had locked her in the broom closet, unaware that by a curious acoustic phenomenon, we heard there everything that was said in front of the fireplace in the living room.

Its odious stepmother, who treated her like his good and put it at the service of his two daughters Anastasia and Javotte was, for the time being talk with his lawyer, a horrible old crab, and she sneered in the most unpleasant manner:

“You see, my dear Otto, one of two things: either Waldemar strayed with his gold mine in Nevada and one day we will find carcass scalped by a native in drying out in the sun: in this case, I remain at the head of his fortune and I want. Or he actually finds gold and reappear even richer than today. In any case, I really do not see why I would find him in this wild country while here, I lead a comfortable life. »

“Attention,” objected the notary, “the little Cindy twenty years, in a year is major and half the fortune of his father deserves. »

“But if he is dead, my dear! With a little luck, you will never find his body and I will remain manager of his property. “Said the Marshal von Töpser.

Cindy shuddered so, the hag speculated on the death of his father. She would not let that happen. Just now, we would release it to go to dinner. After serving, she would pack his bags and go away secretly in the night. His stepmother was unaware that his father had shown him alone, the hiding his loot. “The for a rainy day,” as he said. With this, she would have more than enough to pay for the trip and hire the services of a detective to help him find his father. She knew that her father had inherited the travel diaries of an old friend Explorer. He had found this curious legacy then in the poring had found mention of a rich vein of gold in a corner lost desert. He decided to try his luck and appropriating the mine. He had taken the road, accompanied by his servant Jurgen Kirchubel, a fellow who did not have both feet in the same shoe. Since we had not heard of him but she remembered that he had said he would start his search from Sacramento. It was far but where would she went to rescue her father she adored and escape her stepmother she hated.

She put her plan into execution with a mastery acquired protect permanent accusations of his stepmother and his “sister” or rather girls stepmother. No, she could not call “sisters” these two harpies. She had a different idea of ​​what should be a sibling.

As she gently pushed the heavy gate, she wondered how she was going to find his way. The moon was in its last quarter and a weak broadcast chiaroscuro. Then she felt her little white dog, Hound, rubbing against her legs. His first impulse was to send it back but thought better of it guide her in the dark until Wiesbaden Station and then he could be useful. And like that, she would feel less alone, she would be accompanied by the only friend she had had since the departure of his father three years earlier.

Six months later, she found herself in Sacramento. She had faced many trials. First the Atlantic crossing with very painful swell times when she thought she had to die, then the train stopped in St. Louis, Missouri, and then the boat trip and the myriad of procedures with steps in uncomfortable relays, fear of attack, promiscuity with shady and disturbing passengers.

Fortunately, all his companions were not of that ilk. On the boat coming down the Missouri, Cindy made the acquaintance of a young blonde woman of French origin by the name of Valerie with whom she befriended, and had the pleasant surprise of finding it in Sacramento won by another way. Valerie, too, was looking parents, specifically his uncle and aunt who had settled in the United States and that it was tracking, seeming concerned with incredibly itchy.

Once in the city, they knew where to go to. Exhausted, the faithful little white dog on their heels, they decided to find suitable accommodation for girls and went to knock at the Lutheran Mission where they spoke German. She found a good matron who took them under his wing and offered them to escort them the next day at the Pinkerton Agency: “These are detectives who took over from marshalls or sheriffs when a case goes beyond their constituency. They will, no doubt, help one or the other. »

What was said was done and a few days later, Cindy and Valerie took the road to Virginia City because they were told it was there that he found several veins of gold and silver. They were flanked by two detectives, Julius, a man dressed all in gray, balding but had to be brown, bright and sharp mind eye, and Steven, also blond Julius was brown, as hairy as the other was bald, deceptively sleepy. Both had agreed to accompany them as they went to Virginia City on the trail of a murderer.

Cindy was a pleasure to be on a horse. She had learned to ride, little girl, with her father and was good rider. Although it is not mounted in the saddle for three years, she found immediately equestrian reflexes.

When they arrived in town, the two detectives walked without hesitation to the sheriff’s office, “it is an old fox who does not look, Roy Coffee, but it should not be relied upon as false bonhomie, it hides a lot of cunning and perseverance. »

But when they got there, it was not the old Roy Coffee that greeted them on the doorstep, it was a young man dressed in black from head to toe, beautiful as a God to the point that Cindy had gasp.

He bowed his head slightly to greet the two women then, turning to the two detectives, informed them that Roy Coffee had gone on patrol in search of six burglars bank and had pinned him a deputy sheriff star for the duration his absence.

What’s your name? “Julius asked suspiciously. After all, nothing told her that the caller was not an off-the-law who put Roy Coffee out of harm him and being substituted for him until he departs, he and his confederate.

The object of his suspicions seemed to be reading open book in the eyes of the detective as he launched:

“My name is Adam Cartwright, I am the son of the wealthy ranchero territory and I am honorably known here you can find out. »

Julius smiled: “The name of Cartwright is honorably known beyond Nevada and his fame reached Sacramento. Steven, get witnesses to make sure that this gentleman is who he claims to be. I hope, “he added,” you will excuse us from our side of caution, it is a professional deformation. »

Adam replied that a startlingly white smile that had a devastating effect on Cindy.

 “Trouble, big brother? »

The exclamation came from a young man wearing a green jacket, his head crowned with a black raven haired generous than his beige hat could not hide his face illuminated by a radiant smile. Both women turned to him and, for once, it was Valerie who felt the rhythm of his heart speed up in his chest.

“No, no, the gentlemen of the Pinkerton Agency only want to verify my identity. »

“Ah, well, Gentlemen, and you too, ladies, I have the honor to present the most stubborn brother, most pests, the most authoritative but also the most generous, intelligent and extraordinary that man can have in this world. I can not say too much harm because, for the moment, he is wearing a sheriff’s star on his shirt, and he would not mind for putting me for insulting a representative of the order. Fortunately, this is the most ephemeral sheriff I know because normally tonight, he should resign when Roy Coffee will be returned and then I can tell you all the horrible things I know about him. And I know a lot because I’m Joe Cartwright and Adam Cartwright him and we both son of the Right Honourable Benjamin Cartwright. »

Adam, accustomed to his brother’s teasing, had listened to the whole speech with a smile but a twinkle in his eye revealed his younger he would not miss it at the first opportunity, which, moreover, n ‘little worried the aforesaid. The two detectives, they had undergone this flood of words speechless, as girls, they had seized a small part of the statements of the young mocking because he spoke too fast for their uncertain English but understood that he joked and both showed a delighted smile.

Steven pulled himself together and walked to the Bucket of Blood, which he returned a few minutes later, looking pleased, “You can rest assured, Julius, they all confirmed that it was Adam Cartwright making sheriff office. »

Adam beckoned them to come in, pointing out to them that they would be more comfortable in the shade to talk. He made them sit all four. Joe had continued his journey and Valerie, unable to banish from his mind the image of the young man could not concentrate on the conversation. Cindy, however, was listening and frowning as she made an effort to understand what was being said.

“Well, ladies and gentlemen,” asked the interim sheriff, “What can I do for you? »

“We traveled together for the safety of these ladies,” said Julius, “but we are pursuing different goals. For our part, we are here because we a George Steeple we suspect of two murders. »

“George Steeple … It tells me something. A guy who speaks English with a strong German accent and swear in German too. »

You know him? »

“I met him once or twice at the saloon. He went through Virginia City, there are ten days. »

The two detectives, very excited, laid their question at the same time:

“He left? »

“Where was he going? »

Adam chuckled: “Softly, gentlemen, do not both speak at a time. Yes, he seems to have left town. Where, to where, I do not know because I had no reason to watch him. Roy will definitely more. »

“Then we will wait,” said Julius. “Come on, Steven, in the meantime, we’ll cool off and take a room at the Grand Hotel. Ladies, we salute you. At any hour, Cartwright. »

When the two men had left the scene, the attention of Adam turned back to the two women who made him vis-à-vis.

“A brunette and a blonde,” he thought. “No, not brown, auburn rather, my favorite hair color. In addition, she has beautiful eyes! But enough dreaming, Adam, you go astray … “

“May I ask what Brings you here, ladies?”

“Pardon?” Asked Cindy.

“A strange accent,” says Adam. “There is in it the German and French. Well, it’s time to gather my French souvenirs. »

“Parwlez you frwançais? “He asked. Immediately, the two girls’ faces lit up, “Oh, yes, I speak French,” said Valerie, “I’m French. »

“Me too,” adds Cindy, “I am German but my mother was French. What a joy to hear our mother tongue, our English is so poor. »

“Be nice, then, to speak slowly,” replied Adam “because it’s been ten years since I studied languages ​​at the university and I have not had many opportunities to practice. The last time was with … I do not know how you say that, strange fellow? »

“A strange guy? “Ventured Valerie.

“That’s it. A François Villon. But let us leave that and let us return to the purpose of your visit. »

Cindy decided to take the plunge, “Well, sir, I’m Cindy von Töpser, I live in Germany, near Wiesbaden and I came seeking my father, the Marshal von Töpser. He left three years ago to take possession of a gold mine which had been revealed to him the existence and since then we have not heard from him … I have not heard from him. »

The correction was not lost to Adam: “You started by saying” we. ” Are you saying that someone could have new and you do not have communicated? »

Disturbed by the insight of this man, Cindy blushed in spite of herself. Should she be virtually unknown to its small family business? After hesitating, she opted for the franchise after all, this man was not he a policeman? It was necessary that he knows the ins and outs if she wanted him to help.

“If, which God forbid, my father died and my mother was informed she has no interest in revealing it. As long as he is deemed alive is it to whom he has entrusted the management of his property, it reigns over the whole area, but if he died, it will have to share the fortune with me as the only child of my father. My mother in law has two daughters from a previous marriage »

“I see …” He paused to think for a moment, then continued: “I think I have a track start for you. There are two years, bringing the cattle, I met guys who were talking about a man they had met a strange German, they said, a guy who claimed that there was gold in Curse of the mountain, in the southeastern Nevada, almost on the border of Arizona. It could be him. »

Cindy shuddered with hope: “But of course it’s him, admit it would be a funny coincidence if there was another German seeking a gold mine in the same region. They would not talk about two people? He was accompanied by one of his men, Jurgen Kirchubel. »

“Sorry, miss, but I do not know. Anyway, I do not know if Roy Coffee wants to help you. You see, this man, whatever his identity, is outside its jurisdiction. »

Immediately, Cindy got on his high horse, “Never mind,” she snapped, bombastic, “I will go looking for him alone if need be! »

“Not alone,” Valerie bounces without thinking, “I accompany you, Cindy, I will not leave you. »

“Thank you my friend,” said Cindy comforted by this support, so fragile it is.

Adam kissed them in a single glance. They were endearing, these two small bravettes ready to launch an assault on the desert and a mountain that Panamints Indian saying haunted, but it should not have let them do it, they would not survive two days. Carried away by his protective reflex, he held out his hands, palms down, in a gesture intended to curb their audacity: “Please, ladies, no hasty decision. Give yourself to me, I promise to help you. But for now, we must wait for the return of Roy, he might know more than me. “Then, looking away from Cindy, he turned his interest to his neighbor:” But you, Mademoiselle, you have not told me what had brought you in this remote corner of America. »

Valerie shook his English blondes, “Oh, I’m Valerie Saint Quentesseth and I looking for my uncle and aunt. »

“The gold miners, too? »

“No, no, nothing of researchers. They went to America and I decided to settle with them. »

“It’s huge, America, you do not have a better idea? “He kept his mouth open impeccable teeth, looking a little bit stunned. Valerie burst into a laugh as fresh and unexpected, “Let me tell you the truth. I went on a whim because I was bickering with my older brother. We are orphans and it was he who supported me. It is not bad but abominably authoritarian and consider myself as if I was his daughter. I soon nineteen, he must treat me like an adult. So one day, I took my cliques and slaps … “

“Your what? »

“My cliques and my slaps, that’s what we say when we’re going somewhere, when one is packing what. In short, I said I was going to join our uncle and his wife but I just forgot to ask for their address. »

The silvery laughter gushed again. Adam wondered if he had not before him the female version of Joe, careless to unconsciousness, taking nothing seriously …

“You should take time to cool off and rest,” he said. “The only suitable place here to girls like you, it’s Mrs. Hawkins family pension. I’ll lead you there. “

He got up, went to the door, opened it and hailed a kid with impudent face passing by, “Hey, kid, you want to win a dollar? »

“Yeah, always,” replied the boy.

 “Then get me Joe Cartwright. If it is not in the General Store, is that he is playing poker at the Bucket of Blood. Tell him I need him. »

A few minutes later, his emissary returned followed by a slightly mocking Joe:

“So, Sheriff, we can not cope alone? We need his little brother? What crime was committed? The city is quiet yet well … That’s it, I found, was burglarized and the bookseller someone stole the complete works of Shakespeare. Give me a badge, I’ll help you. My suspicion focused on a man in black, voracious soporific and these books … “

“Joe, incorrigible talkative, shut up. I did call you because I can not leave my post and I need someone to escort these two girls. »

Joe’s face broke into a broad smile, “Why do not you say? Where does it lead you, my pretty? »

So saying, he took off his hat and broke into a bow in the manner of a musketeer. Adam rolled his eyes in exasperation and waited for him to finish his facial expression to specify:

“Bring them home Hawkins widow so that they can install. They must expect Roy returning earlier, they will have to sleep in the city. »

“Why not to Ponderosa? »

Adam raised his voice: “Joe, you’re done? I said to Mrs. Hawkins. Is it over your intellectual capacity to make a simple thing? »

“Oh dear, what a character! Do not make thee Sheriff, I will fulfill your mission. Come, ladies p’tites, take my arm, I have one for each. »

And he drew the two young ladies, stunned by his verbiage in the main street of Virginia City. It was only four o’clock in the afternoon and Roy Coffee still probably be long two hours to go. After negotiating with the Widow Hawkins renting a room for two, Joe asked if she could serve them tea and biscuits, “I’m not going to let you mope in this room, my rabbits’ declaration he at the two young women who smiled while Clementine Hawkins felt obliged to make a grimace of disapproval of such familiarity.

“Joe Cartwright,” she yelped, “do you think it is worthy of the son of Ben Cartwright and treat young ladies of good family? Your dear father … “

“My dear father love you,” interrupted Joe knew that this statement liquefy the fat lady. “Come on, we prepare a hearty snack while these young ladies of good family, as you say, will cool off. I wait quietly making a success. »

No one could resist a good mood Joe Cartwright and the landlady and tenants were eager to do what he had suggested.

Two hours later, Joe did not know anything of what had led a German doe-eyes and a blonde French hot in the depths of the Far West, Virginia City. Like Adam, but with more exuberance, he was moved by the plight of Cindy and moved by the demonstrations of friendship and Valerie was committed without thinking further, to provide them all possible assistance.

Cindy while being deeply grateful to him for his offer chivalrous, thought that the protection of Adam reassured more but Valerie, she thought that Joe would be more squarely than its predecessor and this passion pleased. She could not look at the young man’s face crossed by the broadest of smiles. Joe was not deceived: in amorous inclination, he had the intuition to spare and feel than it already in his heart nicknamed “the little blond angel” had already succumbed to its charm. “Providence would have it”, he said, “because it is what attracted me at first glance. »

In the middle of a lively conversation, the clock struck six shots, “Come, my little rabbit,” said Joe, “it is time to return to the sheriff’s office, I hope that Roy will be back. »

It was in effect and the two men Pinkerton were there too and Roy had already undertaken on the subject of George Steeple. The sheriff confirmed to them that the person they were looking for had left in the direction of the Valley of Death. “During the time he stayed in town,” he assured, I had nothing else to complain that binge drinking or poker games he was trying to raise, when he was What more leverage, boasting soon be worth millions. He had supposedly found a gold mine and looking for partners to help find her because unfamiliar with the country, he had lost track. »

“This is the proof that this is our man,” Julius replied, a smile of satisfaction on his face. The two men he has killed, these are guys he racolés in saloons to lend a hand in his search for his alleged mine. »

Cindy and Valerie had dropped upon hearing this conversation conducted on a much too fast for them, but Adam, on the contrary, following with the greatest attention, squinting as he used to do when he concentrated. When the two men had left the scene, Adam presented the girls and succinctly explained their case to Roy.

“It is curious,” he concludes, “is that the famous Georges Steeple is heading in the same direction as the father of Miss Cindy, he seeks, too, a gold mine and that has a German accent to cut with a knife. »

“Come, come, Adam,” growled Roy, you do not even suspect when the father of Miss Von Töpser to be the assassin looking for these gentlemen! »

“No, of course,” made Adam with a reassuring look at Cindy’s attention, that George Steeple must not have more than forty years and I imagine, Mademoiselle, your father is older … “

 “Hardly, sir,” said Cindy, “it is only forty-nine. »

“If you do not suspect the father of Cindy, Adam” Joe called out, “What do you sing us with your coincidence? »

“I think that the domestic Marshal Von Töpser took with him. How did you say his name, Miss? »

“Jurgen Kirchubel …” Adam Looking into his eyes, she suddenly had a flash and gasped, “Oh, my God, I just realized …”

What? “Valerie asked in chorus and three men.

“Kirchubel, it means” bell “in German …

“And it says” Steeple “English” completed Adam, “George Steeple is the translation of Jurgen Kirchubel. The murderer sought by Julius and Steven is none other than your home! »

Roy frowned: “You could be right, Adam. Coincidences are disturbing … “

From a spontaneous movement, Cindy marched towards Adam and took her hands:

“What does that mean, Adam, what should I fear? »

From his meter eighty-six, Adam bent his head over the girl to meet her eyes. He wanted to measure its ability to withstand disturbing news. Plunging deep into his eyes, he read of anxiety but also fierce determination.

“Can I be honest with you, Miss? »

You’re welcome. I’m young and I look fragile but do not rely on it. The life that made me live my stepmother armored me. Go ahead, I’m listening. »

Cindy handcuffs keeping the hollow of his warm hands, Adam replied:

“There are several hypotheses and I’ll start with the worst: it may be that your father, along with what Jurgen, has found a gold mine and that this sad individual wishes to be appropriated by using large means … “

“That’s to say? »

“That is, by killing” finished Adam, decided not to beat around the bush. “The other hypothesis is that your father had the wisdom to let him out when he felt he was nearing his goal and has penetrated only the cursed mountain. Jurgen, who knows the purpose of the trip, while seeking to find guides to reach the mine. »

“But why does he kill? »

“I can not say for sure but I guess his cronies should be as greedy as him. At one point or another, they think they have drawn with sufficient information and seek to oust him. There is no evidence at this time that he murdered them in cold blood, he may have killed them to defend themselves. This second hypothesis does not satisfy me only half because it does not explain the disappearance of your father. But there is still a third possibility … “

“Which one? “Wondered the same time Roy and Joe, captivated by what Adam said, and once again, admiring his sagacity and imagination.

“The middle Jurgen saw the mine or, at least, it came close enough to think he can find it easily. He tried to get rid of his master but did not succeed. Your father would be so watchful, hesitant to leave her fear of mine that does Jurgen advantage of his absence to seize and stands guard waiting for the return of his enemy. »

“But, Adam,” objected Cindy who had finished, although reluctantly, by removing his hands from those, this should do well two years he stands guard. How is this possible? What did he see? »

“You forget, Miss Cindy, we do not know when he found the mine, if he found it. If anything, this makes a few months. How he saw that, I have no idea. The only way is to go “

“Good idea,” exclaimed Joe, “I come with you. »

“You? “Roy asked,” do you think, Joe, I’m ready for this expedition? It does not matter, it is not in my riding. I’ll telegraph to my colleague in Las Vegas and we will wait for a reply. This is what we will do. There is no question that I get a patrol to be lost in the valley of death. »

“I understand, Roy,” Adam replied calmly, “but I do not see what prevents us to go my brother and me. »

“Your father, that will stop you,” replied Roy. “What takes you to both of them, suddenly wanting to do the job of the police? »

“So there it fits you, Roy,” Adam replied sarcastically. “Who has pinned a star on the chest for a day for me to do the time? »

“It’s not the same, Adam” was a small safe hand I asked you. This has nothing to do with shipping you project. »

“The problem Roy,” replied Adam always fearless, “is that if we do not go, the girls are planning to embark on the adventure themselves. »

Roy got up from his chair as ejected by the horror of what he had just heard: “You do not think, ladies! You have no idea what it is that the Death Valley. It is not for nothing that this name. This is the warmest and driest region of North America. In summer, the temperature reaches up to 60 degrees. »

“But we are in March,” interrupted Valerie, unimpressed.

“Nevertheless,” Roy replied, “it is already very hot there. Water points are rare, the desert is infested with snakes and scorpions, excluding Panamints Indians are hardly welcoming. You can not seriously think to go. »

“But if it was your father, Sheriff,” Cindy asked, anxious air, “would you leave the abandoned, dying of thirst, hunger, fatigue? »

“Why did you not ask Pinkerton help you? »

“I asked. They said they had too much to do with the search for criminals, they were involved in search for missing until they were sure that the volunteers were not missing. They even added with a big vulgar laugh that maybe my father had changed his name and lived quietly with a new companion easier to live with his wife. »

In memory of this rudeness, Cindy enraged again and we could read his indignation on his face. Adam noticed that anger suited him but kept his thinking for him.

One thing was certain is that it seemed impossible not to rush to the aid of Marshal von Töpser and daughter. He could not explain why but this quest for the girl who, at first, did not concern him, became his business. He was about to embark on an adventure full of danger for a girl he did not know the day before. It was stupid but he was going to do it!

Roy opened his mouth to again urge Cindy patience but Adam did not give him the same time to begin his sentence.

“Do not fret, Roy, I’ll go. With a little luck, I can join the two detectives since I’m pretty sure we have the same game. But I’ll try to deter to stop too soon. If we follow unwittingly domestic should lead us to his master “

“No way you go it alone,” threw Joe, “I accompany you”

Adam turned to his brother, not knowing what to say. On one hand, some reinforcement was not to be despised. Excellent shooter and equally excellent rider, Joe was a teammate of choice. He also knew from experience how dangerous it was to venture alone in the desert. On the other hand, the old guard still background animated the heart of Adam towards his little brother urged him to reject his proposal. Let him go, he, in front of an unnecessary danger because his conscience (he did not confess it was rather his heart), it was one thing; he leads his brother in this madness, it was another.

“It would be helpful to me to have you with me, Joe, but I have no right to risk your life for …”

He paused. What would he say? A whim, a folly? It was offensive vis-à-vis Cindy who certainly did not deserve that. His hesitation to let Joe time to speak again.

“It is not you who risk my life, that I decide to do so. I am twenty years old and I am no longer a child. I make decisions myself and I took the one to go with you. If you do not agree, it does not matter, I would go alone. »

This determination cession latest prevention of Adam. He broke into a broad smile and striking the shoulder of his brother told him with an irony that was intended to mask his emotions:

Alone? But my poor Joe, you would not do twenty yards in the right direction. It is better that I go with you, it will prevent you turn in circles. »

While Roy muttered under his breath that they needed further convincing Ben Cartwright, which was not won, Cindy, with a determined air, encamped in front of his two servants knight

“I thank you both with all my heart, but I want to say that you do not go to two, but three. I come with you. My father and I have to go through. »

“But, Miss Cindy” made Adam, “You did not hear Roy? The dangers of this expedition in the desert are real. »

“If you can go, I do not see what prevents me. Women are also resistant to heat and thirst than men. »

“Exactly,” adds Valerie, “we are, one and the other good riders and we composure. »

“You mean, Miss Valerie, you are thinking as you come? »

“I think I said earlier. You did not hear me? »

Joe looked at her with admiration. It was a woman after his own heart, a woman who was not afraid of anything, and yet, was all femininity.

“Bravo! “He cried, throwing his hat in the air.

Adam looked at him sternly. He could have done to support his brother brought to the mad enterprise of the two women. His bright eyes passed from one head to another, and he felt that he would be pointless to tackle. However, it still had that slows the temerity to Cindy and Valerie. They were not aware and it was his responsibility to stop them from putting their lives at risk.

“Well, all right,” he finally said, “we take you on two conditions”

“Which ones? “They asked.

“First, you will obey me the finger and the eye. You may be good riders and travelers, but you know nothing of this country and you are not seasoned as we are, my brother and me. We will take a trolley for you. And you will leave the Hound at the Widow Hawkins “

“But …”

“No, but they are prerequisites. Then when we get to the canyons of the valley of death, we will set you up camp and we will go without recognition. Take it or leave it! »

Joe approached his brother, severe mine to show that he fully endorsed the terms of Adam. Cindy and Valerie does not even thought of discussing and humbly gave their consent. Roy watched the quartet sarcastically. They went out in the ladies raccompagnèrent to Hawkins pension.

“We will leave the day after tomorrow,” said Adam.

“Why not tomorrow? “Cindy was astonished.

“An expedition like this does not just happen. We need to equip ourselves, you first, with big hats, clothing that covers the entire body. Furthermore, I have to find someone to replace us at the ranch. My father is counting on us and we can not do him down without providing help. Especially since, as we are, I wonder if the presence of our brother Hoss would not be useful “

After the door closed on their future travel companions, Adam encamped, hands on hips, facing his brother and told him: “And now, my friend, we have to explain it all to Pa, what does is not the easiest part of our project. »

For Adam was not deceived. He had agreed with Joe about the scenario. They would let go dinner and Adam come out a bottle of good brandy he hid in his room for the birthday of his father – “too bad”, he said, “I’ll find something else to opportunity “- and propose a glass with a jovial air. Once everyone settled in his favorite chair, he would raise the issue.

Despite all these precautions, the result was that the brothers feared. His stentorian voice, Ben uttered a roar that brought out Hop-Sing of his den to see if a mountain lion had not entered the house.

“What you say, Adam? Tell me that I misheard. Or maybe it is the brandy … “

“Uh, no, Pa,” Adam muttered, “brandy nothing to do, we want from escorting two girls in search of their father, in the valley of death. »

“Finally, Adam you lost the spirit, the valley of death, I have sent you there once …”

 Many times

“Well, Adam, I know what I’m saying, I sent you there once because Joe had been kidnapped and did not want to neglect any track. He was not there, either. »

“Yes, but you sent me several times to participate in research patrols off-the-law and, many times, our pursuit took us into the valley of death. And you see, I’m back. »

 “Obviously you were a dozen, well equipped. This has nothing to do with this trip denies you project. You two and two young girls that you do not even know. »

“Well, Pa,” Joe got mad, “do not you raised us to rescue people in danger? »

“What people in danger? These two girls just have to stay quietly in the Hawkins widow until the sheriff Las Vegas does not give his new and it does happen to them. »

“Yes,” Adam nodded on a soft tone, “but the father of Cindy? »

Ben remained silent then, finding nothing to answer this objection, changed course:

“And the work he has to do? The contracts with the company railways? Who will be involved? You know, Adam, I was counting on you to carry them out. »

“That,” said Adam, “I thought. I have for a replacement. It is I who would pay “if he hastily added to prevent the remark of his father. “It’s a very good man. His name is Charles Ingalls and is in trouble because the old Walker Jeans who did work all winter is bankrupt and can not pay it. He has a wife and three daughters and does not know how to feed them. »

“And where do you want me to stay the whole little family? We hire only singles. I will not install in the dorm, though. »

“You know, the little meadow that I inherited when I was given the property of Ed Payson because he had no family and that it was I who paid his taxes …”

“Yes? »

“It is not far from the sawmill. It will install his trailer and then I gave him permission to build a small house. »

Ben foamed: “As usual, you have all the answers. You organized everything as if you were sure I would say yes … “

Adam had become pale, sign in him a cold anger: “Because, you see, Pa, I intend to go whether you like it or not. I am thirty-two years after all. But of course, “he relented,” I would rather have your consent. Ingalls please you, it is an amazing man. He forties, not two feet in the same shoe is the same righteousness. It’s funny, it looks a little like Joe older. Physically, not as a character. »

Joe laughed: “I do not know if I should take that as an insult …”

Adam never recovered and continued its momentum, “he will not be alone, I have him Deputy Bernard O’Reilly, it’s a good woodsman and a man who is not afraid of anything. You see, “he finished with his best smile,” I’ve thought of everything. »

Ben did not know what tone continue to dissuade his older to persist in his project. Submitting this worry later, he turned to Joe:

“In any case, you, young man, you are not going. »

Joe lifted her chin in a defiant mimicry:

“I’m sorry, Pa, but this time, I can not obey you. I do not intend to leave Adam alone protect these young women not realize the folly of their audacity. »

“Madness is the word, I do not do to say. »

“You’re right, they go, no matter what. You do not see them, just now, but you can ask it to Adam, we both have the certainty that they will go into the wilderness to be told anything. Here, information yourself with Roy. If we let them down, they go to certain death and we will be guilty of having let go only when we were aware of what they would do. »

“You, then,” muttered his father, “as soon as there was a petticoat around …”

Joe smiled, feeling that the determination of Ben faltered: “Hey, it’s not just me, you should have seen Adam caressing eyes brunette. »

Hoss who had said nothing until then, went to his father: “Listen, Pa, if it makes you feel, I’ll go with them. »

It was for Ben the coup de grace: “Oh, not so, you’re not going to put you there too! »

“Yet,” made Adam, “it would be very useful. We’ll go quietly until small pueblo, Las Vegas, we will see the sheriff and, if he does nothing for us, we will go down to the South. When we arrive at the beginning of the first canyon, I intend to stop the caravan that can not be penetrated and install the girls until we spotted traces with two types of Pinkerton if they are willing to lend a hand. It would be nice that one of my brothers with me and the other remains with the girls. »

Ben fell deep in the red chair “My son went crazy, I see no other explanation. »

“He agrees! “Exclaimed Joe.

“Hurrah for Pa! “Shouted Hoss

“Come on, I offer one second brandy tour to celebrate,” says Adam filling the glasses.

“Forget the glass, Adam,” Ben made by fixing his older with a black eye, “and give me the bottle frankly”

The next day, Adam asked Hoss and Joe to relieve him of his daily tasks because he had to make travel arrangements. He went to a neighboring farmer who owned a caravan and offered to hire him for a month, but when he learned what was the intended destination, the owner refused any idea of ​​renting and forced Adam to purchase the vehicle. Adam then carefully chooses the horses he was going to tackle them: he had it both durable and fast. Then he took care of packing the abundant supplies of ammunition trailer, clothing, food, fodder and especially water. He took care to distribute water in different corners of the truck, he could not risk a flight of Indian arrows pierce all the skins come because we would have been foolish enough to put them all in one place.

Then he went to his room to get a big needle and thick thread shoemaker and spent half an hour to sew in various places of the tarpaulin covering the trailer, gold coins and dollars. You never knew who would have to bribe in a search like they undertook and had to take the money, while ensuring that potential looters do not find them. Reusing a ruse succeeded him in the past, he sewed his money in hidden places whenever he was making dangerous journeys. He also had the habit of hiding in his boot and into the lining of his hat even in the hem of his shorts.

Then he went to Virginia City, first to negotiate with Charles Ingalls and Bernard O’Reilly, then to see how prepared his travel companions.

Charles Ingalls gratefully accepted the proposal of Adam. He demanded an advance that would allow him to pay off his debts and promised to go install the caravan that he used as home by the end of the day, Ponderosa. Caroline Ingalls gave him a look that said, better than any words his gratitude to the man who had avoided them many days of misery.

Bernard O’Reilly was a man who was about to reach their forties. The Irish had long knocked solid, praising his talents to the best shooter offering but it came to a phase of his life he longed for a quieter and more orderly life. Adam knew he could count on his loyalty as he had given in the past, its ringleaders.

Refreshed for the ranch and her father, Adam went to knock on the door of the Hawkins pension. The owner opened her simpering and installed in the living room as she ascended the stairs under her petticoats to go warn girls.

Cindy and Valerie greeted warmly Adam but the latter, cutting short the rigor of pleasantries, asked to see their package. He wanted to make sure they took whatever they needed but nothing useless “no frills, no jewelry, no objects that can attract lust! »

Cindy had obtained wide skirts and wide-sleeved tunics long light color that received the approval of Adam. He also congratulated the purchase of a large Mexican poncho mode. Having given his good report, he asked for a sewing box to the young woman and could not help laughing at her dumbfounded air, “What do you believe? I know sew. Finally, sewing is not the word, say that I know … mend clothes or wounds. When starting solo expedition, one must know how. I just want to show you how to sew your ticket bundles hems. »

Cindy and Valerie laughed, “Oh, okay, that, you do not need to show us, we know. »

“About Miss Valerie” Adam asked, scratching his ear lobe, sign, home, a slight embarrassment, “Can I see your trunk as I have seen that of Miss Cindy. »

“And if I said no to you. »

Adam emphasized his embarrassed smile, “Oh, Miss Valerie, believe me, I do not mean to pry, I just want to know …”

Valerie finished the sentence for him “… how I’m dressed. Well, calm yourself, I’ve planned or prom dress or suit adjusted or veiled hat, I’ll be just right, you do not need to check. »

This was said in a tone so determined, despite the friendly smile that accompanied his tirade, Adam did not dare insist.

“Oh, and Adam, we also wanted to ask you something …”

“Yes? “Said Adam, a little worried. What had they been invented?

“We want you and your brother, you stop giving us the” Miss “or” Mademoiselle “long as your arm. Call Cindy and I Val. Valerie, it’s too long, Val, that’s enough.

Adam’s face brightened. If there was it to please them, it was not difficult. “Very well, Val and Cindy,” he said smiling, “I will spend the word to my brothers. »

“Your brothers? »

“Oh, I did not tell you, brother Hoss joins us. You see, it is a giant of extraordinary strength and it is our best tracker. I’m glad he came with us. »

Early the next day, the three son bade farewell to their father. Ben did not mince words to Adam:

“My boy, it is you who are the cause of this trip, I entrust your brothers. Do not forget that you are all that I have in life and that I have supported many tragedies. I know we can not go against the will of the Almighty and that if he wants to take you, I can not stop it, but do it anyway attention. »

He delivered his message with a voice poorly containing his emotion and Adam was deeply touched. He looked at his father right in the eye and said, “I promise not to be reckless and act with caution. I took all the necessary measures to guard against thirst, hunger, cold and heat. Against bandits, Indians and wild beasts, it will take on Providence and our expertise in all three. But believe me, I’ll be doubly careful, knowing that I not only support my brothers but these two young girls. »

Ben shook his head with conviction and then, trying to lighten the mood for that separation is not done on a note too sad:

“What I see in your back? Your guitar? For an expedition in the desert? Who are you going to charm? Snakes? »

Hoss and Joe laughed while Adam replied, not without a little blush: “It’s for those evenings around the camp. We will not get straight to the desert and we have to do several steps before reaching Las Vegas. I thought a little music would be nice. »

“Early one morning, just as the sun rising Was” Joe sang.

“Come on, Joe, on horseback,” cried Hoss who perched on the driver’s seat, was maneuvering the caravan, the journey is long and we must not wait ladies. Hulda take with you since Adam Chubb and Jolly already behind and go for it. »

And while Ben, moist eye, watched them away in a dusty cloud, inwardly murmuring a prayer, they took the road to Virginia City.

Their entry into the high street did not go unnoticed, and when they stopped before the Hawkins pension, they were not surprised to see Roy Coffee and Paul Martin waiting for them, Roy to provide them his latest tips and Paul for their entrust some potions.

Cindy got out first, slender in her beige tunic belted at the waist and brown skirt. She was holding a large sombrero straw but coquetry, had decided not to put it once part so that Adam could admire her beautiful auburn hair. Because he had been obliged him to admit, this trip was now in his eyes a dual purpose: to find his father, certainly, but also seduce the handsome prince who appeared to him two days earlier, dressed all in black, in the sheriff’s office.

Cindy had just completed to shake the hands of his three riders and be present when Hoss Val appeared on the doorstep. In his view, Adam was a exclamation of astonishment. As for Joe, he could not restrain a whistle of admiration which he accompanied with a radiant smile, the girl was dressed as a man and as a matter of chance, she was wearing exactly the same clothes as Joe, blue jacket, white shirt, tan pants, black hat. We would have been taken for twins was the cascade of golden curls sticking out of the hat and the two “apples” that put relief to the bodice of this Amazon.

Cindy straddled Hulda and Val, Jolly and the little band trotted.