Synopsis: The second in a series about Joe and Anna. Anna is abducted and Joe is hurt in her rescue, leaving him with severe headaches and loss of memory of the incident. Anna is upset that every time someone hurts Joe, she has to suffer along with him and decides to leave Virginia City. Joe has to regain his memory in time to find the abductors and keep Anna from leaving.
Rating:  PG  (19,850 words)

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CAPTURED MINDS

 

Emily and Margaret Harrington sat on the front porch of the mercantile store observing the sights and sounds of Virginia City. Being Saturday, school was not in session and the two young girls were amused by the hustle and bustle of the town at such a late hour of the morning. They were concerned of the four strangers riding into town.

“I wonder what those men are doing in town?” asked Margaret.

“I don’t know, but something is vaguely familiar about them,” answered Emily.

Grace Harrington heard her daughters’ conversation. “Girls what are you two whispering about?”

“Mama we were just talking about those four strangers that rode into town, they look familiar.” Grace eyed the strangers as they dismounted their horse in front of the livery stable.

“They should be…one of them is Samuel Fenton. Girls, do you remember about a year ago, Joe Cartwright testified at the court trial of Sam’s brother, Jack, who had shot one of the tellers during a robbery attempt at the Virginia City Bank. If Joe had not stopped Jack, he might have gotten away. All the rest of the gang escaped. His brother, Sam, was not one of the gang according to a witness. He threatened to get Joe for sending his brother to prison.”

“Mama, do you think Joe is in danger?” asked Emily.

“No darling, don’t you worry about Joe…he’s a big boy and can take care of himself,” Grace assured her daughter. “Let’s go inside…we’ve got a store to run.”

Joe Cartwright rode into town and parked the buckboard in front of the Mercantile Store. He greeted Grace and her two daughters as he alighted from the buckboard. He had known the Harrington family since they owned the ranch next to the Ponderosa. Grace’s husband, John Harrington was a very good friend and business acquaintance of his father, Ben Cartwright. After John’s death, Grace was unable to manage the ranch. Ben Cartwright bought the land and helped Grace in purchasing the store. She had remained a very good friend to the Cartwright family ever since. Joe and his two older brothers, Adam and Hoss enjoyed teasing Emily and Margaret and treated both of them like they were their little sisters.

“Joe, we know why you’re in town this beautiful morning?” asked Emily smugly.

“I bet you’re in town to visit with Miss Anna,” replied Margaret.

“Really, you two little busybodies might just be wrong. I might have come into town to see you two,” Joe answered as he lightly tweaked the girl’s noses.

“But if you’re still interested Joe, we saw her walk across the street to her studio about thirty minutes ago,” remarked Emily giggling.

“I’ll have to go visit with Anna after I finish ordering supplies,” Joe said giggling.

The two girls giggling descended the stairs leading to the living quarters above the store. “Morning Joe, those girls sit out on that porch knowing the whereabouts of everyone that passes by them. They act just like a couple of gossiping old ladies.”

“Miss Grace, they’re not causing any harm.”

“Joe, those girls think the world of you and Anna. Now what can I do for you this morning?”

“I need to order some supplies and I’ll pick them up later. Anna and I have to meet Pa and my brothers for lunch and we don’t want to be late,” Joe replied.

XXX

 

The four men watched Joe walk down the street to the Opera House. Sam Fenton had waited for a long time since his brother was convicted of robbery, blaming Joe Cartwright for his brother going to prison.

“Is Cartwright still sweet on that piano teacher?” questioned Fenton.

 

“Yea, he’s pretty serious about that lady,” answered Jake Putnam.

“I’m going to get my revenge. If Cartwright hadn’t interfered in that robbery, Jack would still be a free man. Now I know how to get Cartwright,” warned Fenton. Rusty, you and Jim watch the movements of Cartwright and his lady. We’ll meet at the old McGregor mine later on today and put our plan into action.” The men went their separate ways into town.

XXX

Joe slowly walked down the corridor listening to the piano music coming from within the small studio in the Opera House. He stood at the door absorbing the beautiful music, but making a mental picture of the lady playing the music…his beloved, Anna Ravinsky. He hated to interrupt her playing, but sometimes she had no sense of time. She would become so involved in her playing that she would forget anything of importance. At this point in time, Joe made sure she would not forget her luncheon date with him and his father and brothers.

Anna opened the door and gazed up at the handsome young man with brown curly hair and hazel eyes…Joe Cartwright. He took her in his arms kissing her passionately for sometime. She turned her face upward as he kissed her neck.

“Joseph, how long has it been since I saw you this morning?” Anna felt flushed as he continued kissing her.

“About three hours.”

“Has it really been that long?”

“Yes, darling you have no sense of time.” Joe reached for the buttons on her blouse.

“Joseph, are we not supposed to meet your father and brothers for lunch?” Anna whispered

“Yes, I forgot,” Joe answered, sheepishly. ” I promised them I wouldn’t be late.”

Anna took Joe’s arm and walked out of the Opera House into the busy street of Virginia City, unaware of the man who watched them leave. Rusty Callahan made his way around to the back of the Opera House to look for an opening. He tried the back door, but it was locked then he noticed the window to Anna’s studio. The window was cracked slightly, so he was able to gain entrance. He moved to the door and ventured out into the corridor leading to the stage, searching for some way that Fenton’s gang could enter in the near future. He found the stage door entrance locked. He unlocked the door and opening it slightly, observing the amount of activity outside. He would continue doing this until he had to report to Fenton later. He closed and locked the door, walked back to the studio, and exited through the window, closing it to the original height. He walked around to the front of the Opera House, gesturing to his partner, Jim Ferguson to join him and they walked to the Silver Dollar Saloon.

Ben Cartwright sat at the table at the International House tapping his fingers slightly perturbed at his youngest son’s tardiness once again. His oldest sons, Adam and Hoss, noticed the frustration of their father. The two brothers have experienced Joe’s lateness for many years. They have come to the conclusion that this was the norm for Joe and there was no way of changing him.

“I wish my youngest son would be more punctual when I ask him to join us for a meal,” asserted Ben looking at his older sons.

“Pa, Joe can’t help it…he’ll be here soon. He’s gotten overprotective since she was attacked by that man, Korsokov,” reminded Hoss.

“I know that they both suffered from that ordeal.” Ben’s thoughts returned to that awful night many months ago when Joe and Anna were severely hurt by that man.

“Pa…Joe and Anna had a hard time after that incident but they finally recovered from the wounds and the subsequent nightmares that followed after that night,” Adam replied.

“Joe likes for her to be safe when she enters her studio since it’s located way back in the Opera House. I know that’s the reason he’s late,” Hoss said trying to ease his father’s frustration towards his youngest brother.

“I know Hoss. I try not to complain too much because I understand his feelings for her since that night they both were hurt. Joe really loves Anna and he goes out of his way to protect her, but Joe can’t be with her constantly. I try not to complain because I understand his feelings for her since that they both were hurt. Joe really loves Anna and he goes out of his way to protect her, but Joe can’t be with her constantly. But, he tries to be with her as much as possible.”

“Yea, Pa, but is Anna the one he’s going to marry?” questioned Hoss.

“Hoss, the way he dotes on her…I wouldn’t be surprised,” answered Ben. “But who knows when that will occur.”

“Maybe when Joe is eighty in the shade,” retorted Adam, grinning.

“I hope your little brother doesn’t take that long.” Ben overheard Joe’s familiar giggle as he and Anna approached the table.

Ben smiled at his youngest son with his handsome looks and flashing hazel eyes. Over the years, Joe could be a joy and a frustration. His devil-may-care attitude seemed to get him in more problems than not. Since Joe’s courtship with Anna began, Joe has not been involved in fights. Ben was amused with this petite lady standing about five feet tall, could charm his son enough to keep him out of trouble.

“Pa, I apologize for being late…we were indisposed for a few minutes,” Joe said sheepishly helping Anna to her chair.

“Joseph, I can imagine what caused you to be late. I think we need to order.” Ben replied amused at his son’s excuse.

“Yes, Sir,” said Joe quite embarrassed his father would figure out why he was late. Joe looked at Anna and his brothers who were trying to suppress their laughter.

After their meal, Joe and Anna walked back to the studio. He regretted to leave her, but he had chores in needed attention at the Ponderosa. He kissed her and told her he would return later for supper. Ann always hated for him to leave, knowing she would be alone except for her students who would have lessons scheduled through the day. But, she made the best of the situation, knowing he would return later.

XXX

Joe joined his father and brothers at the Mercantile Store to finish buying the supplies. As Joe turned to enter the store, he caught a glimpse of Sam Fenton leaving the Silver Dollar Saloon.

“Joe, is something the matter?” Ben asked seeing the concerned look in Joe’s eyes.

“Pa, I saw Sam Fenton coming out of the saloon. It’s been over a year since his brother went to prison. I had hoped I would never see him again.”

“Joe, I was hoping he would leave and never return to Virginia City. Everyone in this town knows of the threat me made against you. Joe do your best to stay out of his way…he’s only trouble,” Ben replied.

“Don’t worry, Pa. I’m not going to provoke him in any way that could cause harm to me or anyone else close to me,” Joe assure his father and they walked into the store.

Ben and Joe loaded the wagon with the supplies needed on the Ponderosa. Joe reminded his father he had to help his older brothers with the branding of the cows. They unloaded the supplies then Joe Mounted Cochise and rode out to the south pasture where Adam and Hoss were busy branding cattle. The three brothers worked late into the afternoon. Joe wanted to return to Virginia City to check on Anna. His brothers decided to ride with him, stopping at the Silver Dollar Saloon for a beer. As they entered the saloon, Joe heard someone call him. He turned to face the person who had called the name and was surprised to see it was Sam Fenton. His brothers noticed his apprehension to talk to Fenton but gestured for him to proceed towards the man.

“Joe Cartwright, want you join me for a drink?” asked Fenton aware of most of the patrons curiously looking at him.

“Sam, sure I’ll join you,” Joe answered cautiously moving towards the table. Joe and his brothers sat down at the table unknowing what Sam was planning.

“Joe, it’s been a while since I made the threat against you and I want to apologize for that statement. It was made in anger and I know Jack was wrong and he had to serve time for his mistake. You were only trying to save innocent people from being hurt during the robbery.” Sam made sure he said it loud enough where the patrons in the bar would hear him.

Joe was surprised by the apology, sensing after entering the saloon, he would inevitably be forced into a confrontation with Fenton. Joe accepted the apology and the subject changed to a friendlier one. Fenton finished his drink and left the saloon.

“Well…Little Brother…what was that all about?” questioned Adam looking at Hoss. Both brothers sat staring at their youngest brother slightly amused by Sam Fenton’s declaration.

“Hell if I know! When he called my name and I saw it was Fenton, I was ready for anything that might happen. I’m just as surprised as you tow. I don’t know what made him change his mind about me, At one time he wanted to be my worst enemy…now he’s friendlier than ever.” Joe laughed slightly as he finished his beer.

“Well brothers, I just don’t know about Sam, but I sure will watch my back,” Joe assured his brothers. “I know you’re going to inform Pa about his encounter with Fenton and you know what will happen…Pa will worry. Tell him not to worry. I’ll be careful and I will be home later. Right now I have pressing matters…the lovely Anna.” Joe smiled his devilish grin and winked at his brothers.

“Joe, be careful…it’s a long ride back to the Ponderosa…no telling what could be waiting outside of town for you.” Hoss patted Joe on the back as he rose from the table.

“You two worry about me worse than Pa,” Joe informed his brothers.

“Joe…it’s our duty as your older brothers when we have a younger brother like you. Have a good evening and tell Anna hello for us.” Adam said walking out of the saloon with Hoss and a giggling Joe. “We’ll see you back at the ranch.”

Joe waved to his brothers as they mounted their horses and left town. He walked over to the Opera House. He thought he noticed someone standing in the shadows but he figured it was his own nerves paying tricks on him. Joe walked into the building unaware there was a solitary figure watching him…Sam Fenton. I can’t wait Cartwright…you don’t know what I have planned for you. It’s time you’re going to pay for my brother going to prison. Fenton laughed as he walked back to the stable and rode out of town.

Anna slowly opened the door when she heard the knock and glad it was Joe and not anyone else. Joe took her in his arms and kissed her for sometime. “I guess you’re hungry by now, lovely lady?”

“I was beginning to have some concern that you had forgot about me in this lonely, old building.”

“I could never forget about you my lovely lady. I promised you a nice meal for the two of us at the International House. Do you need to come back here after we finish our meal?

“No, Joseph…do you have something in mind?” Anna gazed into Joe’s flashing green eyes knowing he had some other plans after their meal.

“Maybe…I might have another plan in the works.” Joe giggled.

 

“Joseph, I cannot wait,” Anna said in her sultry, Russian voice. Joe giggled as he took her arm and led her outside.

Joe and Anna sat at their usual table in the back of the International House eating their meal. Joe informed her of his surprise…a dance. Not just any dance but Seamus O’Riley’s dance given every year for the Irish citizens of Virginia City.

“Joseph, darling, you are not Irish and I am certainly not,” Anna reminded Joe.

“I know, my love, but we were invited by his cousin, Grace Harrington who makes the invitation list.”

“Joseph, I am not dressed to go to a dance.”

“I’m not listening to you. If you were dressed in rags…you would still be the most beautiful woman in Virginia City. It’s not a fancy dress ball…just a dance. Miss Grace and Seamus would be disappointed if we didn’t show up at this dance. And so would I!”

“You win Joseph. How could I ever turn you down?”

XXX

The four men rode out of town to their destination, the McGregor Mine located three miles out of Virginia City. They dismounted and tethered their horses, walking into the old cabin near the mine. One of the men brought in some firewood and made a fire in the old iron stove placing a tattered coffee pot upon one of the burners. Sam Fenton sat the small table located in the corner of the cabin pouring coffee into some cups.

“Well fellows, we’ve been in Virginia City only one day and what have you found out?” Sam asked. “One thing I know for sure, is Joe Cartwright is a creature of habit, especially when it comes to his lady friend. What about the windows and the doors, Rusty?”

“We can enter the building through the window. She usually cracks it just enough and I was able to pry it open. I noticed when she left at night she locked the window. The stage door is always locked, but that won’t be a problem either,” declared Rusty Callahan. “I could sneak in while she and Cartwright have gone to supper and open the door. It would be ready for us to enter when the time came.”

Jim Simmons interrupted. “I did find out something of interest that might speed up our plan. I overheard some ladies talking in the store about Cartwright’s lady not having any lessons for the rest of the week. She’s not going out of town…she’ll be working at her studio. If she’s not with Cartwright, she’s in that studio. You just better bet Joe Cartwright ain’t going to be too far from her. He’s really protective of her since the two of them were hurt by someone who had a grudge against Cartwright’s father.”

“Fellows, you’ve done a very good job,” remarked Fenton.

“Joe Cartwright and his lady are the main topic of gossip in the town. He’s been courting her for sometime and the good citizens are wandering when he’s going to ask her the question,” Jeff Jackson said rather smugly.

“Well, I hope Joe Cartwright has no plans in asking her…tomorrow night we get her,” declared Fenton. “I hate abducting that lady, but she’s the only way we can get Cartwright. I know you’re wondering about Cartwright…I have great plans for him. He’s going to pay for what he did to Jack. Remember no harm is to come to the lady…we’re going to keep her for a few days to lure him to us. I know it’s sooner than we planned, but we have to work fast. I hope all of you agree tomorrow would be the right time.” All of the men agree and continued with their plans for abducting Anna.

XXX

Joe and Anna walked down the street towards the barn where the lively, Irish music was playing. They entered the barn packed with people being greeted by a stocky, blond man with gleaming blue eyes, and a lilting Irish brogue, Seamus O’Riley.

“Joe Cartwright…I can’t believe it…the lord has come down from the manor! Miss Anna…I’m honor that such a beautiful lady has been invited to my dance…and you’re not even Irish. My heart is fluttering!”

“Seamus, there’s only one heart fluttering and it’s mine.” Joe laughed taking Anna’s arm.

Two girls ran to Joe and Anna hugging them. Emily and Margaret Harrington were excited their two favorite people were invited to the dance. They had waited impatiently for them to enter through the barn doors. Grace Harrington hugged Joe and Anna directing them to her lace at the refreshment table. Joe asked Anna for a dance but she decided to wait for a while since her supper had not settled.

“Emily…Margaret…will you have this dance with me?” Joe asked bowing to the girls.

“Joe, you’re asking both of us, to dance with you?” Questioned Emily with a puzzled look on her face.

“Joe…both of us will be honored to dance with you.” Margaret smiled as Joe walked arm-in-arm with the girls to the dance floor.

Joe Cartwright could honestly charm the horns off a bull,” Grace remarked. “Those girls adore him.”

“They are not alone, Grace. I adore him very much,” Anna said as she watched him on the dance floor with the two girls.

“You’ve haven’t told Joe about San Francisco?”

“No, I have not and there is no need to tell him…I am not going and it is final. I wrote the friend of my father and thanked him for his offer, but my place is here in Virginia City. I love my students very much and I have worked very hard training them musically. I feel they would be betrayed by my leaving them.”

“Anna, the real reason is you don’t want to leave Joe…and I can’t blame you. It would be very hard to give up a catch like him.”

“I probably could have taken the post in San Francisco until the attack by Korsokov. It left us both of us scarred physically and emotionally taking both of us a long time to heal from the wounds he inflicted on us, with Joe’s wounds taking longer to heal. I could not leave him…I love him too much and I could not betray him.” Anna sat still as she tried to hide the tears forming in her eyes. “Grace…every time I look at his handsome face, those flashing hazel eyes, and listen to his giggle…I cannot help it…I am overwhelmed. I know people keep wondering when he is going to ask me to marry him. Joe and I are not ready for marriage yet. We will be ready when the time comes…whether tomorrow or five years from now.”

“Anna, I’ve noticed the change in Joe since he met you at the Founder’s Day Ball. Even Ben has commented about it saying Joe has calmed down considerably…no fights and no poker games into the night.

“Grace, I have always wanted to ask you about your relationship with Mr. Cartwright?” You do not have to answer if you do not think it is any of my business.”

“Dear…you’re in love with his son…I don’t mind telling you. Benjamin and I have been friends for ages. I love him very much, but we have several problems. He’s dedicated to that ranch and his sons, while I love living in town with my daughters. But if Ben Cartwright asked me to marry him…don’t think I wouldn’t consider it. To marry the most honest, sincerest, and wealthiest man in all of Nevada, I would be absolutely stupid to turn him down. But I have the same problem as you…he hasn’t asked me.” Grace smiled. “I see as handsome, young man approaching us at the moment.”

“Anna, are you ready to dance, my darling? I need to get some refreshment because the little darlings have worn me out.” Anna and Grace laughed as Joe got some punch. “My dearest Anna, I promised you a waltz, and I don’t break my promise.”

“Joseph Cartwright, I will be honored to dance with you.” Anna offered her hand to Joe and he kissed it, leading her to a platform near the dance floor. “Joseph, we are going to dance on this stage by ourselves?”

“Darling, we’re the honored guests, tonight…if you didn’t know that already. We’ve got to put our best feet forward…no pun intended…to be invited next year.”

“I love you Joseph Cartwright…if you did not know that already.” Joe led her onto the platform where he bowed to her while Anna curtsied to him. All the people at the dance stopped and surrounded the stage waiting for the familiar waltz to begin. Joe took her in his arms and dance, unaware of the people watching them instead of dancing themselves.

Anna and Joe danced until late into the night. They thanked Seamus for the invitation to the dance. As the couple ambled down the street, Anna commented to Joe she was so tired she could fall asleep in the middle of the street. To her surprise, Joe swept her up in his arms. Anna rested her head on his shoulder as he carried her to the boarding house. He kissed her and left for the Ponderosa.

XXX

Ben Cartwright sat at the dining table as Hop Sing served breakfast. His two older sons, Adam and Hoss, joined him at the dining table. All three noticed the absence of the youngest member of the family, who inevitably late for breakfast.

“I noticed Joseph came in very late last night,” Ben remarked as he served the platter of eggs to Hoss.

“Yes…Pa…we know Joe was late, but he had a good reason…he was invited to Seamus O’Riley’s dance. He wanted to surprise Anna, since she’s never gone to one of his dances,” reminded Adam. “He probably drank to much ale.”

“You know Pa…you have to be invited,” Hoss remarked. “I checked on Joe before I came downstairs…he’s sleeping like a baby. I don’t think it was ale…maybe a lot of dancing.”

“To change the subject, Hoss…how do you think our little brother will get his chores, finished and go into town about four times a day to visit Anna? I’m amazed how he manages this feat.”

“Beats me Adam…you think Joe could wear out Cochise riding back and forth to town, but no…not our baby brother…he’s smarter than you think. He’s going to find some errand where he not only rides Cochise once or twice, but takes the buggy or buckboard two more times into town.”

“Boys…I consider myself the guilty party in sending Joe to town. I know he wants to see Anna, so I find ways to let him go,” Ben replied. I confess…I spoil him rotten. Let me go upstairs and see if I can wake Romeo to finish his chores and send on his usual four trips to town.”

“Well you know Pa, Anna has canceled her classes for the rest of the week. We might get some work from our brother, but I doubt I now.” Adam smiled at his father.

“I’ll handle Joseph.” Ben arose from the table and walked upstairs to Joe’s bedroom. He sat down in the chair next to his youngest son’s bed. He watched his son as he slept. Ben could see the resemblance of Joe to his mother, Marie. If she had lived to see you now…she would be very proud of you as I am. I love you, Joseph, no matter what your faults are…you’re just human and my son. And you’re very mush in love.

Joe stirred from his sleep trying to discern the figure sitting next to him. “Morning Pa, what time is it?”

“Time for you to get up and help your brothers before you go in to town to see Anna…your usual four times a day.”

“I’m not seeing her till later tonight. She was real tired from the dance, but she had the best time. I thought she was going to sleep before I got her back home, form the dance. I picked her up and carried her in my arms back to the boarding house. I told Mrs. Carter to make sure she slept late this morning…the studio would wait.”

“Joseph, I would advise you to help your brothers before they do something terrible to you. Son, how much ale did you drink?”

“”None…I didn’t drink one glass of ale…I had some punch. I was worn out from dancing with Emily, Margaret, and my gorgeous Anna.” Joe sat on the side of the bed wearing nothing but his long john bottoms.

“Joseph, you are a hopeless romantic. Now get up and get dressed…I’ll se you downstairs.” Ben laughed to himself as he walked out of the room.

Joe washed, dressed and hurried downstairs to eat breakfast. He mounted Cochise and rode to the south pasture where his brothers were continuing with the branding of the cows. By the afternoon, Joe and his brothers were tired of looking at cows and went home. Joe felt grimy so he asked Hop Sing to bring him some water for a bath. He wanted to look the best he could for Anna. Joe lowered himself into the tub where the steaming water felt good on his sore muscles. He soaked for some time before he lathered the soap to wash off the dirt and cow odor from his body. He finished his bath and toweled himself dry. He changed into his navy blue pants and white shirt, then he primped at the mirror for a while deciding that he was ready for his Anna. He ran downstairs and said his farewells to his father and brothers as he got his gun belt and hat from the hat rack. He promised Ben he would return at a decent hour tonight. His father and brothers laughed as he left the house.

Joe rode into town and headed straight to the boarding house where Anna lived. She was waiting for him as he entered the parlor of the house. He could not believe how lovely she looked tonight dressed in a green silk dress that complimented her tiny waist and frame. Her beautiful sable hair was upswept into a stylish bun. Her brown eyes looked into his hazel eyes and he kissed her passionately. She gathered her shawl from the settee. Joe and her walked out on the busy main street of Virginia City, heading to the International House for supper.

The four men stood near the Opera House watching Joe and Anna. It was now time to put their plan into action. Rusty Callahan and Jim Simmons drove the buckboard behind the Opera House. The two men had made a pallet of blankets in the back of the buckboard and they had brought extra blankets to cover their victim. Callahan parked the buckboard, and ran to the window. Luckily for him, the window was cracked. He opened the window and crawled inside, closing the window to the original height as he found it, then he made his way through the small studio, down the corridor to the stage. He opened the stage door and closed it just enough that no one would notice it being unlocked. He motioned to Sam Fenton and Jeff Jackson to come over to the back of the studio. He told them that that the lights were on in the studio, so usually that meant Anna was coming back. They waited for a while then one of the men gave a sign Joe and Anna were headed to the Opera House.

Anna had to work on some things at the studio and promised Joe it would take a while before it was finished. He told her he would be at the Silver Dollar if she needed him, and to make sure she locked the door to the studio. Joe promised her he would return in the hour to take her home. He kissed her and left.

Anna worked at the piano for a little while, when she heard a noise near the stage. She knew it was not a good idea to investigate the noise, but it might be Joe. She unlocked the studio door and called for Joseph. She heard the noise again and she walked slowly down the corridor to the stage. “Joseph…Joseph…are you out here?” She turned toward the piano on the stage and she heard the noise again. Her heart started to beat faster knowing that she should turn around and run out of the building as fast as her legs could carry her…but she was unable to move from that spot. Somehow Anna regained the initiative to go forward towards the sound. She moved into sparsely lit area of the stage door. Just as she turned to walk away someone grabbed her and cupped a hand over her mouth. Anna struggled against her captor, but it was to no avail. She felt her mouth being opened and a gag was forced into her mouth and held with another cloth that wrapped over her mouth, then a blindfold was placed over her eyes. She felt her arms being wrenched behind her with her wrists tied tightly. She was carried outside where she was place in the wagon on the blankets then her ankles were securely tied. She felt blankets being wrapped around her and she was left alone. Anna could not comprehend why she was being abducted, then she felt the wagon moving toward some unknown destination. Joseph…oh Joseph…I’m so scared. I’m sorry that I didn’t listen to you about leaving the studio. Oh…God… what do they want with me!

Anna could hardly breathe. She tried to calm herself down that she would not make herself sick. She knew with the gag in her mouth that there was a chance she could strangle if she vomited. She fought back the tinge of nausea. Finally she was able to relax enough that the nausea subsided. Now she had to stay awake because she could be in danger again while she lay asleep.

Joe entered the Opera House, first noticing the quiet in the large building. He knew something was amiss, as he ran down the corridor to the studio. Joe’s heart raced as he saw the open door to the studio. “Anna…Anna!” he yelled as he ran to the stage. He walked back to the stage door… it was unlocked. Joe called again and ran downstairs into the dark area of the orchestra pit. He called once more as he walked back into the dark area. There was no answer. He ran outside to the boarding house to see if Anna had gone home for any reason. She wasn’t there. He ran to Sheriff Roy Coffee’s office. Roy could see the panic in Joe’s eyes as he ran into his office.

“Joe what’s the matter?” questioned Roy as he looked at Joe who was breathless from running around trying to find Anna.

“Roy, something has happened to Anna. She needed to work on something at the studio. I told her to lock the door and stay put until I came back to her in an hour. She wasn’t there when I returned. The stage door was unlocked…it’s kept locked all the time unless there is need for entrance during a play or something. Somebody took her out of there.”

“Joe, calm down…we’re go back to the Opera House and check out everything. “Don’t worry, we’ll find her.”

Ben, Adam, and Hoss Cartwright rushed into town as soon as they got word on Anna’s disappearance. Ben stopped at the Sheriff’s office. “Roy, where’s Joseph?”

“Ben he’s over at the Opera House…he’s so distraught that I thought I might have to get Doc Martin to see him. The last time looked over there, Joe was sitting at the piano bench staring at the back stage door.”

“I better get to him.” Ben and his two sons ran to the Opera House. They looked at the figure slumped over the piano. “Joseph…Joseph what happen here?” Ben could see the hurt in Joe’s eyes.

“Pa, someone took Anna. I should never have left her. She wouldn’t walk out of that studio unless she thought it was I. The stage door was opened…it’s always locked. Pa…Pa…who would take Anna?”

“I don’t know Joseph…I just don’t know.” Ben held Joe in his arms motioning to Adam to get Doc Martin. Ben felt Joe go limp in his arms. Hoss carried Joe to Dr. Martin’s office where he was laid on a bed in the office.

After Dr. Martin examined Joe, he walked into the sitting room where the three Cartwrights waited anxiously about Joe’s conditions. “Ben, Joe’s fine. He’s exhausted and needs some rest. I gave him a sedative to help him sleep and he should be fine after a good nights rest.”

“I think Joe had too much of a good time at Seamus O’Riley’s dance last night, then he worked hard this morning branding cows. I should have allowed him to sleep even later than I did. I knew Joe felt rather guilty about his brothers doing all that work, so I wouldn’t let him sleep.”

“Ben, Joe was upset about Anna’s disappearance so that culminated matters. Are you going to stay in town?” asked Dr. Martin.

“Adam and Hoss are going back to the ranch, but I’m staying at the hotel. I need to be close for Joe and if there is some word on Anna. I know Joe will be fine after he gets some sleep.”

Ben and his two sons stepped out to the crisp night air. “Pa, are you sure that you don’t want us to stay here tonight?” questioned Adam.

“No, son…tomorrow will be a busy day. Hopefully, Joe will get some sleep tonight because tomorrow, Joe will be busy trying to find Anna.”

“Pa, whoever abducted Anna will have her stashed somewhere Joe can’t find her.” remarked Hoss.

“I know Hoss, but that won’t stop Joe.”

XXX

Anna lay in the back of the buckboard fighting the nausea that had returned. The gag in her mouth hindered her breathing. She struggled to remove it but it was secured tightly. Every time she tried to move, the ropes binding her wrists cut into her flesh. She wandered how long she would suffer this torture. Eventually the wagon came to a stop. The blankets were flung off her and she was hoisted into someone arms. Unknowing to her, she was carried inside and laid on a cot. She turned on her side to get a comfortable position.

“Ma’am, I’m sorry for this inconvenience, but I’ll try to make you more comfortable,” Sam Fenton said. Anna listened closely to the unknown voice as he continued. “If you promise not to scream, I will remove the gag for a while, but the first whimper out of you, I’ll put it back. I’ll fix your wrists someway that the ropes won’t cut into them.” Anna nodded her head. She finally could breathe better after the gag was removed, especially the one that was stuffed in her mouth.

Fenton untied her hands, wrapping bandages around her bleeding wrists. He rebound her hands but not as tight as before. He offered her some water, which she gladly drank to overcome the dryness in her mouth. She thanked him for the water.

“Ma’am, the blindfold has to stay. I don’t want to harm you in any way. So if you can’t see us…then you can’t identify us. I’ll be back to check on you later.”

Anna thought about Joe for a few minutes. She was eventually overtaken by complete exhaustion then she passed out.

“Sam do we have to keep that lady tied up like that?” asked Rusty.

“I hate having to keep her tied, but she’s the only way to lure Cartwright to us. Try to feed her, but if she doesn’t want to eat…don’t force her, but make sure she drinks water. The blindfold must stay on her all the time. I’ve removed the gag stuffed in her mouth, but it will have to be replaced with something more comfortable. I don’t want the lady strangling on us. We have to keep our identities from her so don’t mention your names around her. The least she knows about us, the better it’s for her and us. Rusty, you and Jim return the buckboard to the stable. I’ll give you enough money to pay Otis extra for the use of his buckboard. Hopefully, that will satisfy him and he won’t complain to the sheriff. We don’t want any more attention to us in case some one saw us leave the other night. You fellows know what to do…now I’ll handle Joe Cartwright.”

XXX

The next morning Joe awoke from his deep sleep feeling nauseated but rested. Once his stomach settled he was able to eat some toast. His father helped him wash and dress. Roy Coffee stopped them as they were leaving the doctor’s office.

“Morning Roy, have you any new information about Anna’s disappearance?” asked Ben, hoping for some good news but not at this moment.

“Yea, Ben…not much to go on, but it’s something. Otis, at the livery stable, rented a buckboard shortly before Anna turned up missing. I’ve asked around town and some people noticed a buckboard leaving from the direction of the Opera House sometime between eight and nine o’clock. And they haven’t returned the buckboard to Otis.”

“Roy, I returned to the Opera House about nine o’clock and Anna was nowhere to be found,” Joe answered trying to remember the events form the night before. “Damn, they were waiting for us to return and they grabbed her as soon as left the building.”

“Thanks Roy for the information. Joe and I are returning to the Ponderosa. If you find out anything, let us know.”

Joe stared into the fireplace gazing at the flames beating around the wood. He felt numb and unaware of any one else in the room. His thoughts were only of Anna. I failed you Anna. I should have been there to protect you, but I wasn’t. I’ll find you darling…I will.

“Pa, why would some one abduct Anna? Is she to be used as an unwilling pawn in somebody’s stupid game of revenge once again? Korsokov hurt her enough using her in his sick game, watching her constantly until he was able to attack her in the boarding house. It left her so frightened unknowing when he might attack her again. She wasn’t even the target. Hell, who’s the target this time?”

“Joseph, I’m in the dark about her abduction as you are. I have no idea who is the target this time…I wish I knew, but I don’t,” Ben answered.

“Pa, I figured there would be a ransom note by now. She’s not a destitute music teacher…she has money deposited in the bank. It’s probably enough to pay any ransom. I’m not able to get to it.”

“Joseph, don’t you worry about payment of ransom. I’ll make sure the ransom is paid, if you receive any demands,” Ben assured Joe.

“Pa, I just want her returned to me safely and unharmed. I need to find her.” Joe put his hand to his face to hide the tears forming in his eyes.

“Joe, you could search everywhere for her, but they got her hid somewhere you can’t find her,” Hoss remarked. “Little Brother, they’ll come to you, but you can’t go to them.”

“You’re right Hoss, there’s nothing I can do but wait. I’m going upstairs to rest. Tell Hop Sing to keep my supper warm. I might be able to eat later on.”

Joe lay on his bed staring at the ceiling thinking about Anna, for some time. Anna, oh Anna, why did I leave you? Any other time I wouldn’t have left you, no matter the time. Why did they take you? There’s some reason, but I can’t figure it out. Oh, God, I hope you are all right. I love you, Anna…I’ll find you. Joe finally closed his eyes and fell asleep.

The next morning, Joe rushed downstairs to an empty house except for Hop Sing, who was busy clearing the dining table of dirty dinnerware. “Little Joe…father and brothers go to town on business…back later. Your breakfast is ready…you need to eat…did not eat supper. Hop Sing forget…note left for you…found on door knocker after father and brothers leave.”

Joe opened the note and read the contents that stated he was to come alone to the cabin near the McGregor Mine and there he would find Anna. Joe read the note once again feeling somewhat suspicious. Any other time he would have left right then, but something told him to leave a message to his father of his whereabouts. He rushed over to the desk scribbling the message. He hurried and saddled his horse then mounting Cochise for the long ride to the McGregor Mine.

As Joe rode closer to the mine, he was quite surprise to see a lonely rider approaching him…Sam Fenton. “Joe, I was on my way into Virginia City. I really didn’t expect to see anyone on this road this morning. What are you doing out this way?”

Joe eyed him with some suspicion. “I should be asking you that question. But I remember that your family had some land out this way.”

“That’s right…I was checking on the old homestead before I went into town. By the way, have you heard anything about Anna?”

“I’m on my way to check out the cabin near the old McGregor Mine. I received a note telling me I would find Anna there. I have to go alone or they may harm her.”

“Joe, why don’t I follow you to the cabin…you might need some help. I’ll follow at a distance where they couldn’t see me. Joe I know it’s taking a chance, but there may be more than one could handle.”

“Yea, Sam you might be right. When I arrive at the cabin, don’t do anything unless I give you the word…don’t want Anna hurt…her safety comes first.”

Joe rode to the cabin, dismounting Cochise and drawing his pistol. The place appeared to be deserted. He opened the front door eyeing the small figure lying on the cot. ” Anna…oh Anna,” he called running to Anna and turning her over into his arms, removing the gag that covered her mouth. She whispered his name as he held her tightly in his arms. Before Joe could loosen the blindfold, covering her eyes, he was grabbed by two men and held tightly. Two other men struck Joe with their fists. Joe fought trying to free himself from the grasp, lifting both his legs kicking the two men. They fell backwards, but gained their footing, striking Joe in the stomach. The blows from the unknown assailants increased hitting Joe in the face and the chest. He knew he would loose consciousness if the men kept up the pace of the blows to his body. Joe tried to free himself from the two men who held him. Somehow he managed enough strength to pull himself from the two men. Joe reeled around, but he lost his balance and fell backwards hitting the iron stove, striking his head on one of the handles, and knocking himself unconscious.

Anna called to Joe, but there was no answer. She knew something was wrong, but she could not see because her eyes were covered with the blindfold. Someone approached the cot as she lay there. “Joseph, Joseph?” she whispered as the person touched her, replacing the gag over her mouth. Anna was devastated knowing Joe was hurt and she was unable to help him or he to help her. She felt everything spinning in the blackened void as she fainted.

XXX

Ben Cartwright sat in his chair next to the fireplace waiting for some word from Dr. Martin on the condition of Joe and Anna. Several hours had passed since he and his oldest sons, Adam and Hoss had found them in the abandoned cabin. Joe had been beaten severely with a gash at the back of his head where he had hit the stove, while Anna was unconscious from her four days of captivity. Ben glanced at Adam and Hoss as they entered through the front door.

“Pa, we didn’t find anything but a cold trail. Roy is still searching with the posse, but I don’t think he’s going to find anything,” Adam said as he sat down exhausted from the long ride searching for the kidnappers.

“Any word on Joe or Anna?” asked Hoss. “Joe, for once, left a note where we could find him. That’s not his usual behavior, but I’m glad he did.”

“I’m glad we found them when we did…Joe was hurt badly, but how could they have left Anna in that condition.” Ben shook his head as he heard the doctor at the top of the stairs.

Paul Martin descended the stairs with a worried look on his face. He sat on the sofa while Hop Sing brought him some coffee. Paul seemed like he was the purveyor of bad news explaining Joe’s injuries. He decided to start with Anna’s condition first. “Anna has been mistreated. She has some bruises and by the way they look she must have gotten them when they first took her. She’s a very sick girl at the moment. The way her dress was soiled, I could tell that she had vomited several times, which may be the reason she’s dehydrated. She needs some food, but we’ll have to start her with some broth and toast to build up her strength. She has severe rope burns and cuts on her wrists. She may have some problems walking, but she should be all right with circulation returning to her legs. Her eyes will take some time to adjust to the light. So keep the room dark, letting in some light everyday until she can see. Anna will be all right in due time… she might have those nightmares again… but she’ll get over them…She’s a strong lady.”

Paul took a sip of coffee and looked at his friend of many years. “Now, Joe is a whole different story. The bleeding has stopped from the gash at the back of his head. It’s a miracle that Joe didn’t crack his skull when he fell. He has bruises, cuts, and a few cracked ribs. Joe has regained consciousness, but he has a concussion. He has dizziness, nausea, and a severe headache. He knows his whole name, but he thinks he’s in Arizona. He doesn’t remember anything about the events that left him unconscious. This may last a few days or even weeks. Ben, he doesn’t remember who did this to him, but he will eventually. Right now, he doesn’t know Anna. He probably would not even know you, Ben. Give him a few days and he’ll remember everyone, but he might not know what happened. It might take weeks for Joe to remember the events that caused his injuries.”

“Paul, it will be rough road, but they’ll pull through, but in the meantime, we’ll have to deal with the situation the best we can,” remarked Ben. “I’m glad Grace could come with you. Anna will need her, since there are only a few things that we men can do for her. I’m going upstairs and sit with Joe.”

Adam and Hoss watched their father climb the stairs knowing the events of the past few days had put a strain on him. For the last four days, Ben had to deal with Joe’s emotions, now he had to deal with his injuries and his concussion.

Ben opened the door and quietly entered Joe’s bedroom looking down at his youngest son lay on the bed with his forehead wrapped in a bandage and his chest tightly bound with bandage. Joe looked pale against the pillows with the bruises and cuts prominent on his face. Ben sat in the chair next to Joe’s bed and gently placed his hand on the uncovered curls of his head and held it there for some time. Tears welled in Ben’s eyes as he watched his son’s breathing. He knew his son would recover but was more concerned of the unknown damage the beating might cause over time.

Joe slowly opened his eyes looking at the silver-haired man sitting by his bed. Joe felt frustrated that he knew this person but was unable to recall his name. “I feel funny…so confused. I know you but I can’t remember your name. Aren’t you Dr. Martin?”

“No Joseph, I’m not Dr. Martin…I’m your father. Son, you’ve had a terrible blow to your head and you can’t remember things, but you will in due time. Rest now and I’ll stay with you.” Ben sat for some time stroking Joe’s hand. Joe fell asleep as Ben lost himself in his thoughts about the whole ordeal of the last four days. Suddenly he was brought back to the present when Adam and Hoss entered the room.

“Pa, Anna has gained consciousness if you want to talk to her. I don’t know what she can tell you, but she might have heard something that may give us some insight to the people that abducted her and hurt Joe,” whispered Adam trying not to wake Joe.

“Pa, you need a break…Adam and I will stay with Joe,” said Hoss.

“I’ll talk to Anna. Call me if Joe awakens before I get back.” Ben left the room and headed down the hall to the spare bedroom where Anna lay.

Anna blinked her eyes trying to adjust to the subdued light in the room. She felt the softness and warmth of the blankets that covered her body. She tried to move but pain enveloped her body, especially her arms and shoulders. She glanced at her bandaged wrists, remembering her captivity after the abduction.

Anna was aware of someone sitting in the chair next to her bed. “Grace…where am I? Joseph…Joseph…is he alright? I know he’s hurt…please tell me,” she whispered faintly.

“Anna, you’re at the Ponderosa…you’re safe. Joe’s alright and he’s asleep,” Grace answered. “You need to rest and get your strength back.”

Ben knocked at the door and entered the room, noticing Anna’s agitated state as he walked to the bed. “Anna, I’m glad you’re awake. Do you feel like talking to me about what happened to you during the last four days?”

“Mr. Cartwright, I am glad to see you. I cannot tell you very much, but I’ll try. After Joe left me at the studio, I heard a noise. I thought it was Joe returning, but he was not outside my studio door. I was so foolish to investigate the noise but I kept hearing it so I followed the sound near the stage door entrance. I was so scared…I should have run, but I could not move. My feet felt glued to the floor. Finally I turned around to return to my studio and someone grabbed me placing a hand over my mouth.” Anna’s throat hurt and she swallowed hard as she remembered the details. “A gag was forced into my mouth, and then I was blindfolded and my hands tied behind my back. I was carried outside and placed in a wagon. I felt nauseated and fought back the sickness the whole time I was in the back of the wagon. It seemed like hours before the wagon stopped. I was lifted out of the wagon and carried inside. I was placed on a cot, where I stayed the whole time. At first, I was able to drink but I became ill. The men tried to give me food and water, but I was so sick, I could not eat or drink. I was blindfolded the whole time. Once they realized how sick I had become, they removed the gag, but replaced it before Joe arrived at the place. I was so scared…Joe held me in his arms…I felt so safe, then he was grabbed. I heard the fight and then I heard a noise like someone falling against a hard surface. I called to Joe but he did not answer. I knew he was hurt…someone touched me…but it was not Joe. The gag was replaced over my mouth…then I fainted.” Anna started to cry as Ben held her in his arms.

“Anna, you don’t need to tell me anything else. You get some rest.”

“Mr. Cartwright, I wish I could tell you more, but I can not. Their voices were not even familiar. They used me…to hurt Joe. I do not know why?” Anna whispered falling asleep in Ben’s arms. He laid her head back on the pillows.

“Ben, I can stay with Anna as long as you need me. I have Janie Morris looking after the girls and the store,” Grace told Ben.

“I’m concerned about both Joe and her getting through this ordeal. They are both hurt, Anna emotionally and Joe physically. I know this will take time, but I don’t know how long.” Ben placed his arms around Grace’s shoulders kissing her forehead. He left the room learning nothing from Anna. Now it was left up to Joe to tell him, but how long would that take, since Joe’s concussion would keep him from remembering anything about him going to the cabin. This could last for days or weeks and the people who hurt both of them could escape justice.

The next morning, Joe stirred from his deep sleep with a slight headache. He winced as he tried to move feeling pain other than the throbbing headache. He tried to sit up in bed, but felt a hand on his bare shoulder. Joe turned to the person sitting next to him…his father. Adam and Hoss stood at the foot of the bed. “Pa…Pa,” he whispered. “I feel strange…my head hurts. How did I get hurt like this?”

“Joseph, you have a concussion from hitting your head.” Ben told him. “Do you remember going to the cabin?”

“What cabin?” Joe asked quite confused.

“You received a note instructing you to go to the cabin near the old McGregor Mine and there you would find Anna. Anna was abducted to lure you to the cabin. Son, you were beaten and somehow you fell against the stove cutting your head. This blow to your head caused your concussion. When we got to the cabin, we found you unconscious.”

“Pa…I don’t remember,” Joe said becoming more confused and agitated. “Anna…is she alright…can she tell you anything?”

“Joseph…she’s alright, but she was mistreated. She was bound and blindfolded the whole time of her ordeal. She can’t tell us anything. The only thing she remembers is the abduction from the Opera House.”

“Oh…Anna…why does she have to suffer because someone out to get me?” Joe asked as his head throbbed with more intensity. “If they wanted me, they had opportune time to get me, but they didn’t have to use her and treat her that way.”

 

“Son…it was the easiest way to lure you to a trap and they succeeded.” Ben noticed Joe’s grimaced expression, knowing his son was experiencing some pain. “Joseph, are you alright?”

“Pa, my head hurts terribly. The throbbing pain started when I woke, but it seems to be worse now than then.”

“Joe, you need some rest. Dr. Martin will be here later to check on you and we’ll mention the headache.”

“Pa, I have lost a whole day and can’t remember anything about that day.” Joe closed his eyes.

“Son…you will remember in time.” Ben motioned to Adam and Hoss to step outside Joe’s bedroom. ” Go back up to that cabin and look around. I know Roy has thoroughly investigated that place, but there’s something overlooked and we have to find it.”

“Dadburnit, Pa, what in tarnation you think we’re going to find at that place?” Hoss questioned.

“I think I know what you want, Pa,” Adam answered smiling. “I’ll show you when we get there. Hoss, you’re going to be very surprised.”

Adam and Hoss mounted Sport and Chubb, respectively, and rode to the cabin. Hoss was slightly perturbed about this venture, knowing this was a lost cause, but if he and Adam could find the men who hurt Joe and Anna, it was worth the ride. They approached the cabin cautiously finding it deserted. They dismounted their horses and walked slowly to the door of the cabin. Hoss looked over to the cot where Anna had lain for four days and then to the stove that Joe had struck his head leaving him with the concussion. Hoss was puzzled why he was here in the first place.

“Dadburnit…Adam…you’ve brought me on some wild goose chase up to this cabin. You tell me what I’m supposed to be surprised about or I’m going to beat it out of you.”

“It’s not what, Hoss…it’s whose land borders this cabin,” remarked Adam smiling. “Who owns the land near this place?”

“Adam, the old Fenton…Hoss stopped in mid-sentence. “Sam Fenton’s family home place borders this cabin and mine. Now Big Brother, there’s no way we can connect Sam Fenton to Anna’s abduction and Joe’s beating.”

“Now, Hoss, don’t you remember the afternoon in the Silver Dollar when Fenton announced very loudly to Joe that his brother got what he deserved in robbing the bank and Joe was not the blame…he was only doing his duty as a good citizen of Virginia City and preventing any innocent person being hurt or killed.”

“Hell, Adam I sure do remember and I warned our little brother to watch his back. It wasn’t only his back that needed watching…but Anna’s. Dadburnit, Adam, we still can’t prove it was Fenton until Joe remembers what happened up here, because Anna doesn’t remember anything about those men who abducted her. She couldn’t see the men who left her…plus she was so sick. She wanted out of this place and hoped someone would rescue her from her ordeal.”

“He did rescue her, but they laid the trap for Joe and it worked. Hoss, our work has just begun. We’ve got to help our little brother remember no matter the consequences.”

“Adam, it won’t be easy, knowing Joe as we both know him. He doesn’t want our help. He’s got to find out everything by himself. I guess he has to be the hero in Anna’s eyes.”

“Hoss…Joe is already Anna’s knight in shining armor. He found her, but he didn’t succeed finishing the rescue. We must persevere in helping Joe, if he wants us to help him or not.”

“Adam, what happens if Joe can’t remember anything?”

“Hoss, Joe’s going to remember and I would hate to be the person that abducted his Anna, leaving her sick, bound and blindfolded for four days in that cabin. Joe doesn’t care what happened to him, but he sure as hell going to make sure someone is paying for Anna’s ordeal.”

“Adam, when he finds out the truth about her abduction and mistreatment. His temper will explode…we’ll need perseverance…to keep him from killing some one.”

XXX

Paul Martin was concerned about Joe as he examined him. The cut on the back of Joe’s head was healing nicely, along with his ribs, which needed to stay bandaged for some while longer. But he was very concerned about the headaches.

“Joe, I knew you might experience some headaches due to the fall against the stove, but these don’t fit the classic concussion headache.”

“Doc Martin, you have taken care of me since I came into this world, and by now you should know I never fit anything classic when I’m injured.” Joe smiled.

“You’re right about that…Joe. The headaches should be subsiding by now, not intensifying. But we don’t know much about concussions and their long-term effect on individuals. There are headaches known as migraines, which are very severe, but usually not associated with concussions. You suffered a blow to your head, which shook your brain, resulting in some trauma that is causing these headaches. Hopefully, they will end in a few days. Now I want you to rest and take it easy for the next few days. I leave you some medicine to help you sleep.”

“Doc, before you leave I need to know about Anna. Pa said she was mistreated. How was she mistreated?”

“Joe, she fought nausea from the time she was abducted to the time she arrived at the cabin due to something she ate at supper or from pure fright. She was able to drink water at first, but unable to eat or drink later on which made her dehydrated and weak. She’s slowly getting her strength back because she’s able to eat and drink now. Joe, I know you’re going to worry about her, but she’s fine. You can see her later, not now…doctor’s orders. Get your rest, young man. I’ll see you tomorrow,” warned Dr. Martin.

Joe lay back on the pillows propping his head thinking about the day he had missed due to the concussion. He wondered if he could remember enough, eventually, to find the men who did this to Anna and him. He closed his eyes and fell into a deep slumber.

Later on during the night while four Cartwright men slept, the scream reverberated through the upstairs of the house, sending the four men scrambling down the hall to Anna’s room. Joe moving slower due to his injuries somehow reached her room first. He held her in his arms as the three remaining Cartwrights entered her room

“Joseph…Joseph…it is Korsokov…he is after me…I cannot see him…but I know he is there…Please…make him go away…Joseph…Joseph!”

“Anna, it’s alright, it’s just a nightmare. Korsokov can’t hurt you any more. I made sure of that.” Joe held her tight kissing her forehead.

“Joseph…please…do not leave me…please…stay with me…I am scared.” She pleaded.

“I won’t leave you. I’ll stay with you. Now you go back to sleep.” Joe placed her back down on the bed. He glanced ant his father and brothers standing in the room. “Pa, I know I need to rest, but I can’t leave her now. I don’t think she’ll have any more nightmares tonight, so as soon as I know she’s sleeping more comfortable, I’ll go to bed myself. I promise, Pa.”

“Okay, Joseph, I hold you to that promise. If you are not in bed later on, you will be! I’m concerned about your injuries inflicted on you from that beating as well as her mistreatment from the abduction. I knew she might suffer these nightmares because she experienced them after the ordeal with Korsokov. It will take time…but you both need rest. You better be in bed later on…not in this chair,” Ben warned, leaving the room.

“Yes, Sir, I will be in bed,” Joe assured his father. Joe knew his father meant business when it came to him and his injuries. Joe felt a slight throbbing of his head, hoping for now it would not develop into serious headache that seem to be dominating his life now. That’s all he would need tonight…a severe headache that would keep him from sleeping. Well, Pa…you said I had to get rest…not sleep…my head is aching so much now, I won’t fall asleep on my own, except with the medicine Dr. Martin left for me. I sure don’t want to take that medicine…but I guess I have to take it.

After watching Anna for some time, Joe decided she would sleep without any more nightmares. He kissed her forehead and walked slowly out into the hall. A flashing light blinded him, hindering his way to the bedroom. As he inched his way to the room, he felt a tinge of nausea. My…God…what is happening to me? I’ve never felt anything like this before in my whole short life…Just let me make it to my bed. I can’t see…my head feels like it’s going to explode. Joe finally lay on his bed with his eyes closed as the room and everything else was engulfed in this light. Somehow he felt the top of his nightstand and found the sedative. With some difficulty he was able to mix the powder with water and swallow it. Joe lay for several hours before the sedative took effect making him quite drowsy. The pain in his head slowly subsided along with the nausea and he fell into a deep sleep.

The next morning Ben Cartwright sat with his two wearied sons at the dining table trying to eat their breakfast. All three of them were unable to get much sleep after the events of the night before.

“Pa, did you check on Joe, this morning?” Hoss asked. “I heard him in the middle of the night stumbling down the hall to his room.”

“Hoss, I heard him.” Ben said. “I looked on him early this morning, and he was sleeping soundly. I’m really worried about Joseph. I don’t want to alarm you two, but I think there is something wrong with Joe due to the injuries he received from the beating.”

“Pa, Joe looked pretty pale last night, but that could have been caused by Anna’s sudden nightmare. We didn’t expect that,” Adam remarked.

“Adam, I noticed how pale he looked when I saw him last night. That’s the reason I wanted him in bed. Hopefully, he got some sleep last night and will feel better this morning.”

“How about Anna? When do you think she’ll be able to go back to town?” Hoss asked as he spooned himself another helping of eggs.

“Soon, Anna’s too dedicated a teacher to deprive her students of any more lessons. I think it would be better for her to go back to the boarding house where Mrs. Carter can look after her. She did a fine job of taking care of Anna after her ordeal with Korsokov.”

“That’s true, Pa. Mrs. Carter treats Anna like her daughter and I know she’s missing her. Maybe it would be best for her to go back to town though Joe won’t like her leaving.”

“Adam, of course, but look at I this way, he’ll find some excuse to go into town four times a day to see her.” Hoss grinned.

Anna decided early in the morning she would return to Virginia City. She needed to return to her students who were having some reprieve from their music lessons since her abduction. She slowly climbed out of bed feeling lightheaded and somewhat unsteady. She walked around the bed holding tightly to the bedposts in case she lost her balance and fell. After a while she felt better grabbing her robe at the foot of the bed and walking out into the hallway. Ben Cartwright met her on the landing of the stairs.

“Good morning, young lady. It’s good to see you up and about this morning.” Ben said. “Would you like to join me for breakfast?”

“I am not very presentable for breakfast with you and your sons this morning.” Anna replied.

“My two older sons have left and I was on my way to see Joe, but he can wait. I think he’s sleeping pretty soundly at the moment. I would be delighted to have you dine with me.” Ben helped Anna down the stairs to the dining table. Hop Sing came out of the kitchen.

“Missy Anna, you eat breakfast?” asked Hop Sing in his broken English.

“Yes, Hop Sing. I would like some toast and a cup of your good tea.” Anna thanked Hop Sing as he scurried off to the kitchen to prepare her small meal.

“Mr. Cartwright, I have decided to return to town. I feel much better and my students are being deprived of their lessons. I would like to see Joseph before I go.”

“I think you returning to town would be best for you and Joe at his time. He has been concerned about you since you came to the house. He needs to get some rest to heal from the injuries he suffered during the beating.”

“I know he is going to worry about me because of my nightmares, but Mrs. Carter can watch after me…she did the last time and I faired through those.”

“I’ll have Adam or Hoss take you back to town when ever you’re ready. Is there anything you need this morning?” Ben asked.

“Yes…nice hot water for a bath.” Anna answered smiling.

After breakfast, Anna returned upstairs and Hop Sing carried her water for the bath. She stepped into the slightly warmed water feeling quite relaxed. I feel so much better with my hair and body clean. I felt so dirty since the abduction. I wonder…what happened to my green silk dress I was wearing that night I was taken from the Opera House? Knowing Hop Sing, he’s probably tried to clean it. I will ask him before I leave.

Anna peered into the closet and surprised to see another dress plus the clean green silk dress. She laughed to herself as she began dressing. She would have to thank Hop Sing. She gazed into the mirror, feeling much more presentable to see Joseph.

Anna entered Joe’s bedroom looking down at his bandaged head and bruises covering his face. He seemed so pale as she kissed him and he opened his eyes. Joe seemed unsure of his surroundings slightly alarming Anna.

“Joseph, are you alright?” she asked touching his bruised face. “You do not look very good this morning, so pale my darling.”

“Anna…I’m fine. I was unable to fall asleep until late last night. Don’t worry about me…I’ll be alright.” Joe lied to her. He felt terrible after the night of his severe headache, but he didn’t want to alarm her. “By the way, you look lovely this morning.”

“Thank you, my dear.” Anna held his hand as Joe lifted it to kiss her hand. “I hate to have to tell you, but I am returning to town this morning to resume my teaching.”

“I knew it was time…you can’t stay away from those students too long…they might forget what they have learned.” Joe teased her.

“I hate to leave you, but you need your rest. I did not notice last night that you had received such a beating. Your face is really bruised. What happened to your head?”

“I don’t know. Pa said that I fell against the stove knocking myself unconscious. I was really knocked around, but Anna, I don’t remember anything about that day I went to the place.”

“Oh Joseph, I wish I could help you remember, but I was blindfolded so I could not see anything that was happening. I heard the skirmish between you and those men but I could not see anything.”

“Maybe in a few days, I can recall everything that happened at the cabin. I want to find the men who abducted you.”

“Joseph…we will worry about that later…right now I want you to rest and get well. I love you very much Joseph Cartwright.” Anna kissed Joe passionately on the lips.

“I promise…I’ll see you in a few days after I get some rest. Good by, my love.”

She blew him a kiss as she left the room. Joe smiled at her, as he lay back on the pillow trying to remember the events over the last few days. Nothing came to him. I wish I could remember. He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

Joe woke from his deep sleep after several hours. His father sat in the chair next to his bed. “Pa, how long have you been here?”

“Not long, Joseph. What happen to you last night?” Ben asked as he stroked Joe’s arm.

“Pa…I had a terrible headache that started with this flashing light, blinding me. I didn’t know if I would find my way to my bedroom, but I did. I felt awful…nauseous and unable to see. I don’t know how I mixed the powders Dr. Martin gave me, but I managed to do so. It was very frightening.”

“Joseph, the next time, you have one of those headaches…no matter the time day or night…you call me or one of your brothers. No telling what would happen to you, trying to move around this house. I want you to stay in bed, at least one more day.”

“But…Pa…I can’t stand to stay in this bed anymore. I need to ride Cochise…she’s been in that barn too long. I also need to help Adam and Hoss around the ranch.”

“I know how you feel about Cochise, so I’ve made sure that one of the hands have taken her out once a day. She won’t let him ride her, but she will let him walk her. I know you feel guilty about your brothers doing all the work including your chores, but they understand. Young man, you stay in this bed or else,” Ben said as he pushed back the uncovered curls from his bandaged head.

“Okay…Pa…you win this round.” Joe smiled.

“Son, I’ll return later to check on you.” Ben left the room.

The morning sun streamed through the lace curtains throwing light on Joe’s face waking him. He clamored for his freedom from his makeshift prison. Joe needed to keep with the pretense that he was back to normal. He would not let anyone know that he already had the beginning sign of yet another headache. He slowly rose from his bed, walking to the washstand where he splashed cold water on his face hoping it would relieve the slight tinge of nausea he was feeling. The water helped somewhat as he dressed then he headed downstairs for the confrontation with his father.

“Pa…I can’t stand to stay in bed any longer. I need to help Hoss with the fences.”

“Joseph, you could have one of those headaches as you’re riding to the south pasture to help your brother. Anything could happen to you.”

“Pa…I promise…if one of those headaches occur while I’m riding, I’ll stop and stay there until someone finds me.”

“Joseph, it could be hours before we find you. I would feel better if someone rode with you.”

“Pa…I’m sorry, but you can’t nursemaid through these headaches. I’m not a baby anymore. I have to deal with these headaches if you or my brothers were not here. I’m going to the south pasture to help Hoss. I’ll be careful.”

“Joseph, this is against my better judgment to let you go by yourself. But you’re right…you’re not a baby anymore.” Ben said quite frustrated by Joe’s stubbornness. “Please be careful.”

“I will Pa.” Joe turned away from his father and walked out the door, knowing the anguish his father felt for him.

Joe’s ride to the south pasture seemed much slower due to the pounding headache. He hoped he would make it to the south pasture before the blinding light incapacitated him, but this time the light did not appear. Joe felt much better as he dismounted Cochise. Joe walked towards Hoss who was busily pulling wire between the fence posts. Joe removed his jacket, rolled up his shirtsleeves, and started helping his brother. The two men worked for several hours mending the fences.

“Joe, hand me a hammer,” Hoss called.

Joe threw the hammer at Hoss. “Why don’t you get it yourself?”Joe yelled as he grabbed his pounding head. “I don’t even need to be here! You can mend these fences yourself! You were doing perfectly good job without me!” Joe sat down on the ground still clutching his head as the pounding increased.

“Little Brother, what’s wrong with you? I’m going to get Pa.” Hoss ran to his horse and galloped back to the ranch house where he told his father about Joe’s behavior. They both hurried back to the south pasture. Both were astonished as they approached, seeing Joe working on the fences as if nothing had occurred.

Ben ran to Joe. “Son, are you alright?”

“Yes Sir, I’m fine. What do you think happened to me?” Joe questioned his father.

“It’s nothing, Joseph. I think you and your brother have worked enough today on the fences. Why don’t we go home and get cleaned up for supper. You and Hoss can work on these fences tomorrow.”

“Fine with me, Pa.” Joe smiled at his father and Hoss. “I need to go into town to see Anna. She probably thinks I have deserted her.”

Ben knew it was a futile effort to stop Joe from seeing Anna. Even with the chance of one of a severe headache might occur, he knew it would be easier on Joe to forsake and argument…might even be the catalyst for one to start. I would save me a headache trying to argue with my youngest!

The three Cartwrights rode to the ranch house. Joe ran upstairs where he washed off the dirt and sweat, then he changed to clean clothes. He hurried down the stairs grabbing his holster and hat hanging by the door. He yelled to his father that he would be careful knowing Ben would worry even more since the incident at the south pasture.

Hoss sat at the dining table eying his father as Joe walked out the front door. “Okay, Pa, what’s wrong with Joe?”

“Son, he’s having some complications from the beating, mainly headaches. I know of one that was severe, but I don’t know about any others he has not told me about. He suffered a headache the other night after Anna’s nightmare. He said there was a blinding bright light and he didn’t know if he could make it to his room, but he managed not only to get there, but he was able to take the medication that Paul had given him. I’m concerned about Joe who didn’t remember being angry at you.”

“Pa, he still doesn’t remember the day at the cabin.”

“I know, Hoss, but today was quite different…he acted if nothing happened between you two. I’m really worried when Joe finally remembers everything.’

“Pa, since I didn’t know about these headaches…Adam and Anna don’t know about them either.”

“I’ll inform Adam about everything when he returns from Placerville, hopefully later tonight. Poor Anna, she may have to experience them first hand from Joseph.”

“Yea, she might. Joe and her will work it out, but when he finds out who abducted her and beat him…there’s going to be hell to pay.”

“Hoss, I’m afraid you’re right…there will be.”

XXX

Anna remained busy after her return to Virginia City, resuming her teaching duties. Though she longed for Joe, she resisted trying to see him, knowing he needed time to heal from his injuries. Since today was her day off from teaching, she decided to tidy up the studio. As she moved some papers on the piano, the telegram from her father’s friend fell onto the floor. She read it once more as he pleaded with her to take the post in San Francisco. No…I wish you would leave me alone…I’m happy with my life here…I love Joe and I don’t want to leave him. Joe will be over his injuries and our life can resume as usual.

Anna placed the telegram back on the piano, closed her studio door, and hurried across the street to the Mercantile Store. “Anna it’s good to see you today,” Grace Harrington said as Anna entered the store. “Any news about Joe?”

“Grace, no I have not heard anything. I have resisted the urge to rent a buggy and ride out to the Ponderosa to see him. I guess no news is good news.”

“We’ll be glad when Joe is back to normal.” Grace replied. “Have you seen your friend, Mr. Kotsky?”

“No, I have not seen the dear old gentleman. I really need to ride out to see him, because I need to discuss this telegram from my father’s friend who keeps hounding me to come to San Francisco.”

“Anna, Joe would be so heart broken if you left him.”

“I know, Grace I love him too much to leave him. I am so worried about him. I wonder if he has remembered anything from the day he went to the cabin to rescue me? Joseph has a volatile temper that erupts once in a while. I am really worried when he finally recalls that day.”

“Anna, don’t worry about Joe. He can handle the situation better than you think.”

Grace told Anna as her youngest daughter, Margaret, interrupted them.

“Miss Anna, I don’t think you will have to wait much longer to see Joe.”

Anna glanced down the street at the familiar sight of the handsome young man in the green jacket riding the black and white pinto approaching the Opera House. “Grace, we’ll finish this conversation later.” She turned and hurried into the street dodging horses and people as she ran to him. “Joseph!” Joe dismounted Cochise, nearly losing his balance by the force of Anna hugging him.

“Lady, I don’t think we need to make such a scene in front of everyone in Virginia City.” Joe remarked laughing.

“I do not care, Joseph Cartwright, they have not missed you as much as I have.”

“I know my dear.” Joe led Anna inside the privacy of the Opera House where they kissed passionately. “Anna, darling, if you would let go of me for a while, I’ll treat you to supper.”

“Joseph, I am not hungry,” Anna said releasing the grip around Joe’s neck. “I have not seen you in days and the only thing you can think of is food.”

“Yes, darling, I’m starving.” Joe smiled taking Anna by her arm and leading her to the International House.

Joe and Anna entered the dining room of the International House where they were greeted by the owner, the employees, and some of the patrons. While Joe adjusted Anna’s chair, he felt someone pass by him…Sam Fenton.

“Joe, I’m glad to see you back in town,” Fenton remarked. “I was sorry to hear about your injuries.”

“Thanks, Sam, I’m feeling much better. I would like you to meet the love of my life, Anna Ravinsky.”

“Ma’am I’m glad to meet you. Good night, hope to see you again. Fenton left the International House laughing to himself, knowing neither Joe nor Anna recognized him.

Anna stared at the table trying to recall where she had heard Fenton’s voice, when she heard Joe. “Anna, are you alright? Honestly, you could have stared a hole though the table.”

“I am sorry Joseph, I was trying to think where I have heard his voice. It sounded so familiar, but I do not know where I heard it.’

“We’ll worry about Fenton’s voice another time. I think we need to order.” Joe squeezed Anna’s hand as he kissed it.

“Yes, Joseph.” Anna smiled at Joe’s handsome face and all thoughts about Fenton escaped her.

XXX

Ben Cartwright sat at his desk thinking about the incident at the south pasture. His deepest thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the opened front door.

“Adam, I’m glad you’re back home. I hope the business dealings with Colonel Jacobs went fine?”

“Yes Sir, I think he is quite happy with the sale of the horse for the Army,” Adam said. “Pa, Hoss told me about his incident with Joe, his headaches, and his loss of memory.”

“Adam, I don’t know how severe the injury was to Joe’s head, but these headaches have me baffled. I’m very concerned about him riding alone. I want you and Hoss to follow him at a long distance making sure he doesn’t see you.”

“Pa, are you serious?” Hoss asked joining his father and brother.

“Yes I am, Hoss. I’m worried Joe will have one of those severe headaches in route to or from the Ponderosa. Someone needs to be close to aid him until we can bring him home.”

“Pa, I understand why you’re concerned about Joe, but do you realize what you’re asking Hoss and me to do…follow Joe. There will be a confrontation when Joe discovers us.”

 

“Adam, he can get angry all he wants to…it’s for his own good!” Ben yelled.

“Where is Joe?” questioned Adam. Should I even ask where he is knowing my little brother as well as I do?”

“He went into town to see Anna,” Ben remarked. “I know I should have insisted he stay here tonight, but that’s harder than you imagine.”

“Joe would have left anyway. Pa, do you want us to ride to town knowing he might suffer one of those severe headaches on his way home? May I remind you, it’s quite dark and lonely on that road at night.”

“Yes, if a confrontation arises, tell him I sent you two after him. I’ll handle Joseph when he returns home!”

XXX

Joe walked Anna to the boarding house, kissed her, and returned to Cohise in front of the Opera House. He was quite surprised to find both of his brothers waiting for him.

“Brothers, it’s nice to see you two tonight. I guess our father sent both of you to see me home in case I had one of those headaches, ” Joe said smugly.

“Yes, Little Brother, you are quite right,” remarked Adam. ” Before you go into one of your temperamental tantrums on Hoss and me, our father said if you want to yell at anyone, you can yell at him.”

“I will!” Joe was livid as he mounted Cochise and rode as fast out of town as the horse could carry him.

“Dadburnit, Adam, it’s going to be a lovely ride home.”

“I know Hoss. Let’s catch up with him before he falls off that horse and really has a headache.” The two brothers rode for some distance finally overtaking Joe. The three brothers rode in silence until they reined their horses in front of the house at the Ponderosa. Adam and Hoss felt it would be more advantageous to remain outside while their father dealt with Joe.

Joe slammed the front door walking over to his father who sat ready for the confrontation. “What do you mean sending Adam and Hoss to town after me?”

“Joseph, I deemed it necessary due to your strange behavior this afternoon at the south pasture. Since you didn’t remember those events…would you be able to remember how to come home!”

“Pa…it doesn’t matter if I could remember or not! I’m not a baby…you treat me like this all the time…I’m a grown man…I don’t need my two older brothers leading me home!”

“Joseph, if you would act like a grown man, you would understand your situation. You are not well…you won’t stay home and rest. At any time, you could have one of those headaches, day or night. As your father, I have the right to be concerned about you, and if I don’t know where you are, I can’t help you!”

“Pa, I won’t have to worry about anything because Adam and Hoss will be following right behind me. They can hold my hand all the way home!”

“Joseph, that’s enough! Anything can happen to you if you are blinded by those headaches. You could fall off your horse and lay out there on that road for hours. Your brothers will be near to help you whether you like it or not!”

“Pa, I don’t need their help!” Joe clutched his head and fell to the floor on his knees as the bright light flashed before his eyes.

Ben ran to his son. “Joseph, what’s wrong!”

Joe crawled slowly across the room trying to see the stairs. “Just leave me alone!” He made it to the first step as Ben rushed to him trying to grab Joe by his shoulders.

“Son, let me help you upstairs…you’re going to hurt yourself.”

“Pa…Pa…I can’t see. I’m so sick…Oh…God…what is happening to me?” Joe managed to crawl to the first landing of the stairs where he collapsed into unconsciousness.

“Adam, Hoss get in here!” Ben yelled as he ran to Joe. “Send one of the hands to get Dr. Martin, I need you two to stay here with me. Help me get him into my arms.” Ben carried Joe upstairs placing him gently on the bed where he undressed him and covered him with the blankets. Ben placed his hand on Joe’s pale face, pushing back a stray curl from his forehead.

Even as Joe slept soundly, his mind played new tricks on him. He was in total darkness with flashes of light bouncing around. Once in a while he would catch a glimpse of someone lying on a cot. Who are you and why are you here? Joe wanted to wake up, but he was a prisoner in the blackness that surrounded him. As he fought the darkness surrounding him, the person on the cot became clearer to him. Anna…Anna…what have they done to you? He started to remember…but then it was over as he fell back into his deep unconscious state.

Paul Martin arrived early in the morning at the Ponderosa ranch house. He never knew what to expect when it came to Joe Cartwright. “Ben, I don’t know why Joe is having such severe headaches. As he has reminded me before, he’s never a classic textbook case. I have no idea why he collapsed, unless he received more damage from the blow to his head than I can assess. How did he act when he arrived home?’

“He was furious because I sent his brothers into town to follow him home. Joe stormed into the house yelling at me then he clutched his head. I tried to help him but he wouldn’t let me. Joe got to the first landing of the stairs then collapsed.”

“Joe’s anger could have caused this headache. I won’t know until he regains consciousness.” Paul continued. “Ben has he remembered anything of the day at the cabin?”

“Not yet. There was a little incident yesterday when Joe and Hoss were mending fences where Joe became very angry with his brother. Joe was clutching his head as Hoss left to get me. When we arrived he was fine and didn’t remember anything had happened between them.”

“It’s very strange, Ben. Maybe he can tell us when he wakes up.”

Joe stirred from his unconsciousness trying to discern the figures on each side of the bed. “Pa…what happened?”

“Joseph, you collapsed on the stairs,” Ben stroked Joe’s arm.

“Joe, what this headache different than the others in the past?” Paul Martin questioned.

“Yes, this time I remembered something. All the other times, I couldn’t recall anything. I saw Anna lying on the cot with her hands tied behind her back and she wasn’t moving. I went to her and as I turned her over, the image of her disappeared. Oh, I wish I could remember more.”

“You will Joe, but it will take time. I don’t know how many more of these headaches you can endure. I want you to stay home and get some rest…no riding into town to see Anna…doctor’s orders, young man.” Paul warned smiling. “I want you to take the medicine I gave you.”

“Doc, the medicine makes me sleep. I’m tired of sleeping and staying in bed.”

“Joe, a person who has a concussion needs to rest and it’s to your benefit to remain in bed for a few more days. Now, you’re going to take this medicine while your father and me are sitting here.” Paul poured the water from the pitcher into a glass, and stirred the powder until dissolved.”

“Well, Doc, you win.” Joe was assisted to a sitting position where he could drink the liquid. He lay back on the pillow and closed his eyes. After a while, he fell asleep.

Joe slept through the night without any problems. He decided he would follow Dr. Martin’s orders staying home. After a few days, Joe became agitated and needed to see Anna. Ben agreed but only on the condition that Adam and Hoss follow him. Joe, reluctantly, decided he would go along with the arrangement. Ben knew Joe would do his best to lose his brothers, but Adam and Hoss were good trackers. No matter what Joe tried his brothers would find him in the end in the end. All three would end up in Virginia City.

XXX

“Joseph, you are not paying me any attention,” Anna remarked

 

“What do you mean?” Joe asked.

“Darling, you keep nodding off as if you did not get enough sleep last night.”

“Anna, I have slept more in the last few days than in the last year. I think it must be the medicine or I’ve slept too much.”

“What medicine, Joseph?” Anna questioned puzzled by Joe’s statement.

“Darling, it’s nothing you need to worry about.” Joe assured her.

“I can order supper from the International House and bring it over here if you like…I do it all the time. You can sit right here and rest. It will not take very long.”

“No, that’s too much trouble. I’ll go with you. Besides I like to walk with such a beautiful lady.”

“Joseph, this is not the time for flattery…dear, do you promise not to fall asleep in your food?”

“I promise.” Joe giggled.

Joe took Anna by the arm and they walked to the International House. As they entered, Joe noticed his two brothers sitting at a table eating their meal. Both brothers rose and made their acquaintances to Anna. “What are you two doing here?” Joe asked quite perturbed.

“Dadburnit, Joe, we have to eat.” Hoss replied with a look of disgust at Joe as he sat down to the table.

 

“Since we have to watch after you, we will not have supper at the Ponderosa, therefore, we have to dine somewhere and the International House was appropriate,” retorted Adam smugly. “So you take your regular place with Anna and just ignore Hoss and me, if you can.”

“Joseph, go sit down…people are beginning to stare,” reminded Hoss.

Joe, angrier than ever, led Anna to their regular table. Anna who was totally confused of the whole situation decided it was none of her business to interfere in the Cartwright brothers’ business. Usually Joe was civil to his brothers and she wondered what was amiss between them. It would be Joe’s place to tell her when he thought it necessary. Their supper was ordered and they sat in quiet through the rest of the meal.

After returning to the Opera House, Joe seated himself in one of the chairs near the piano. He propped his left arm on the chair, resting his head in his hand. Anna noticed he looked pale and withdrawn. “Joseph, are you alright?”

“Anna, darling, I’m fine. I’m sorry about supper and the way I treated you. I’m also sorry for the way I treated my brothers. They mean well…just following Pa’s orders. I have some complications from the beating…nothing for you to worry about.” Joe told Anna as he felt a tinge of nausea.

“What do you mean some complications?” Anna asked concerned about Joe’s sudden appearance.

“I have headaches, just like I’m having now.” Joe winced as the blinding light and wave of dizziness struck suddenly. Joe tried to stand but everything in the room began to spin. He managed to grab the top of the piano falling onto the floor.

Anna panicked as Joe fell, running to him. “Joseph…oh my God! I will go get Dr. Martin.”

“Anna…no…I’ll be alright.” Joe fell against the piano sending the papers on top falling to the floor. Joe grabbed hold of one piece of paper as it fell to the floor holding it in his hand. He tried to arise from his place on the floor but to no avail.

Anna rushed out of her studio and into the street. She noticed Joe’s two brothers at the Mercantile Store. “Adam…Hoss…come quickly…it is Joseph…something is wrong with him!” she screamed as the two brothers ran to her.

“Anna, run over to Dr. Martin and tell him we’re bringing Joe!” Adam yelled.

The two brothers entered the studio finding Joe conscious. Joe protested that he did not need anyone’s help. Hoss paid him no attention and hoisted him into his arms and carried him across the street to the doctor’s office. Dr. Martin directed Hoss to a room where he lowered Joe gently on the bed. Adam and Hoss helped Dr. Martin undress Joe then he was covered with a sheet. The two worried brothers joined a distraught Anna in the sitting room.

“Joseph told me he was having complications from the beating. How long has he had these headaches?” Anna asked as she stared out of the window not even looking at Adam and Hoss.

“Joe started having them a few days after we got him home. He had the first severe one the night of your nightmare at the ranch.” Adam remarked. “Three days ago he had one so severe he passed out on the landing of the stairs. He hasn’t had one for a while until tonight.”

“I remember the day I left the ranch, he looked so pale. I asked him what was wrong, but you know Joseph, he said he was fine. He always lies to me because he does not want me to worry about him. Oh, my Joseph.” Anna tried to fight back the tears forming in her eyes and turned away from Adam and Hoss.

Dr. Martin examined Joe then walked to the sitting room. “Joe’s going to be alright. The headache was not as bad as before…maybe they are subsiding. I don’t think he’ll have anymore as bad as the other night that left him unconscious. Joe told me before I gave him a sedative he’s starting to remember details from the day of the beating, no real startling information but bits and pieces. Joe was holding this piece of paper when you brought him over here.” Dr. Martin handed it to Anna as she peered down at the telegram from San Francisco.

“Well, Doc, Adam and I will ride home and tell Pa what has happened today. Anna, do you need us to walk you home?”

“No…Hoss…I’ll stay with Joe…I need to talk with him when he awakens,” Anna whispered with a look of horror on her face. Oh…God…I hope he hasn’t read that telegram. I don’t know how I’m going to explain this to him.

The two Cartwright brothers and Dr. Martin noticed the changed expression on her face as she turned away from them walking to Joe’s room. Dr. Martin assured them, he would look after both of them.

“Hoss, something’s not right.”

“Dadburnit, Adam, I know. Let’s get home and tell Pa.”

Anna sat by Joe’s bedside as he slept soundly. Oh…Joseph…of all the pieces of paper you had to pick up from the pile on the floor…why that one? Oh…you are going to be so angry…I hope he will not take it the wrong way…but knowing you, Joseph, as I do, you will. I love you very much and I want to stay with you forever. I just want you to get well. Good night my love. Anna kissed Joe on the forehead and fell asleep herself.

Joe woke early in the morning looking at Anna as she slept in the chair. He touched her hand causing her to stir from her sleep. “Joseph…I’m glad that you’re awake…you gave me such a scare last night. I was thankful that your brothers were close and could help you.”

“Maybe Pa was right after all in having those two follow me into town.”

“That is the reason why you were slightly angry at them last night. Joseph, are you alright…you look quite pale.”

“After I take the sedative, I get a little nauseated. Don’t worry…I’ll be fine.

Anna kissed him leaving him to rest. She busied herself during the afternoon teaching piano and voice lessons. After her last student finished for the day, she decided it would be best to check on Joe. She opened the door and was startled to find Joe standing before her.

“Joseph, I was coming to see you. How are you feeling?” asked Anna.

“I’m fine. We need to talk.” Joe motioned to Anna to be seated. “What is the meaning of that telegram?”

“Joseph, it is nothing.”

“Well it seems quite clear that you’re leaving to take a post in San Francisco.”

“No Joseph, I am not leaving. I am staying right here. I cannot leave you or my students. My home is here in Virginia City. Joseph, how did you manage to read that telegram?”

“It doesn’t matter how I read it…I did. I thought you were happy here. Are upset about what has happen to you? First, the attack by Korsokov and then the abduction…I didn’t cause any of those incidents. I don’t know why you were used in either one of them.”

“Joseph, I know you were not the cause of any of these, but am I going to suffer every time someone gets angry at you? I was upset and confused after the attack by Korsokov. My father’ friend wanted me to come to San Francisco to take the post of music teacher. I wanted to leave but I came to my senses and decided to stay. I thought if I could leave for a few months, everything would return to normal. Then I was abducted and you were hurt again. I love you, Joseph. I cannot bear you being hurt.”

“Anna, I get hurt both mentally and physically sometimes. It’s the luck of the draw being the youngest Cartwright. Anna if you leave now, you won’t be back. I hope I’m wrong. I will love you always, but I’ll let you go.’

“Joseph, you do not understand…I love you and want to stay with you!”

“Anna…just go!” Joe yelled and stormed out of the studio.’

Anna sat quietly trying to absorb the impact of Joe’s anger. Nothing could stop the flow of tears streaming down her face. She waited for hours before she walked to the telegraph office. After she posted the telegram, she walked home to the boarding house still in a daze from her argument with Joe.

Joe rode Cochise at a fast gallop until he approached the house reining her to a stop. He slammed the front door running upstairs not saying a word to his father and brothers sitting at the dining table. As Ben heard the bedroom door slam, he looked at his two sons.

“What in the hell could be wrong this time?” Ben asked.

“It doesn’t sound too good,” remarked Adam.

“After Joseph calms down, I’ll talk to him.”

Joe lay on his bed staring at the ceiling. Anna…oh Anna…Why didn’t I handle the argument with you better then I did…I can’t let you go…There has to be a way to release both of our captured minds…I have to remember…it’s the only way.

Over the next few days, Joe and Anna went their separate ways. He continued with his chores at the Ponderosa and Anna with her packing for the long trip to San Francisco. A tap at the studio door took Anna’s attention away from her packing. Emiline and Margaret Harrington entered holding a basket. “Mama sent you some things for your trip.” Emily said handing the basket to Anna.

“Emily, Margaret, I’m glad to see you and thank your mother for the gift,” Anna said as both girls ran to her crying.

“You can’t leave, Miss Anna. We love you too much and we don’t want you to leave us!” Margaret cried.

“We thought you were happy here with Joe. We love Joe and thought you loved him too,” Emily said.

“Oh, girls!” Anna held both girls tightly as she started to cry. I love Joe very much, but sometimes things change between two people. You both will understand when you get older. I promise I will return in a few months.”

“Please don’t leave, Miss Anna!” Margaret pleaded.

“Girls, go home. I will see you before I leave tomorrow. I love you both.” Anna hugged the girls as they ran home crying.

Anna rented a buggy from the livery stable for the longest trip of her life…to the Ponderosa to inform Joe of her leaving. She knew it was a difficult decision, but it was done, but there was no turning back now…the deed was done. First she rode to the house telling Joe’s father of her leaving, then to the south pasture. She stopped the wagon seeing Joe working with his brothers.

Joe ran to the buggy. “Anna, I’m sorry I haven’t come into town to see you. I’ve been too busy around here,” Joe said helping her from the wagon.

“It is alright, Joseph. How are your headaches?”

“I haven’t had any in a few days. Maybe they’ve stopped. I hope so.”

“Joseph, I am leaving tomorrow. I will miss you.” Anna fought back tears.

“Oh, Anna, I’ll miss you. I love you very much.” Joe pulled her towards him and hugged her.

“I will come back, I promise. Goodbye my love.” Anna kissed him as she climbed into the buggy.

“Goodbye Anna.” Joe stared at he buggy for some time after it left.

“Joe why don’t you go home. We can finish here,” Adam said glancing at Hoss. Both brothers could see that their youngest brother was upset and knew would not be of any use for the rest of the day.

Joe gathered his hat, jacket and holster, mounting Cochise for the ride back home. His felt like he was in some trance as he rode home unaware he had arrived at his final destination. He dismounted his horse and entered into the house, not noticing his father at his desk. Ben knew immediately something was wrong looking at the distressed look on Joe’s face.

“Joseph, are you alright?” Ben questioned wondering if another headache was occurring.

“I’m fine, Pa,’ Joe whispered.

Ben arose from his desk chair. “Joseph what’s wrong?”

“She’s leaving…I can’t believe she’s going. I always felt in my heart that she would be the one. I have to stop her from leaving…Pa…I have to stop her.” Joe fell against his father’s massive shoulder crying as he had many times in the past.

“Joseph, you’ll find a way.” Ben hugged his son as Joe sobbed uncontrollably. Ben helped Joe upstairs to his bedroom “Son, you get some rest.”

Joe lay on the bed trying to piece together everything that had occurred. Anna, what did you say about Fenton? Something was familiar about his voice…why? I’m beginning to remember bits and pieces but not enough. I have to return to the cabin… the answer is there. I’ll go tomorrow morning when I’ll have a fresh outlook. Tomorrow…Anna…I have to stop you from leaving…somehow. Joe fell into a deep slumber.

The next morning, Joe rushed downstairs not saying one word to his father and brothers. Ben ordered Adam and Hoss to follow Joe knowing Joe had a plan to stop Anna from leaving, but he could not fathom what Joe would do to keep her here. Adam and Hoss waited before they started to follow him. They managed to keep a long distance, but Joe was aware of their presence.

Joe reined Cochise in front of the empty cabin. He entered through the front doorway purveying the room. He thought very hard and began having flashbacks. Anna…oh my Anna…what have they done to you? I rushed to you as you lay on your side. After turning you over to face me, I removed the gag. Before I could remove the blindfold, I was grabbed and held while they beat me. I broke loose, but lost my balance, hitting my head. Joe closed his eyes then the face appeared…Fenton. Sam Fenton…you bastard…no wonder Anna thought you’re voice was familiar.

Joe burst from the cabin, mounted Cochise, and rode as fast as he could to Virginia City. His two brothers watched Joe from their vantage point near the cabin.

“Brother Hoss, do you recall our conversation about whoever abducted Anna would pay dearly when Joe finally remembered.”

“Dadburnit, Adam, Joe just remembered! We better make sure Joe doesn’t kill him”

“Yea, Hoss, someone is going to regret ever knowing Joseph Cartwright. Come on…let’s go!”

XXX

The young ticket agent watched the petite lady walk slowly to the ticket office window. She paid for her ticket the seated herself in front of the ticket office. “Miss Anna, if you need anything, you’ll let me know.”

“I will…thank you Donnie.” The young man said no more to her knowing she was upset. Her last day and night in Virginia City was like a dream knowing that she would awake and everything would be back to normal. She stared out into the street unaware of the young man riding the black and white pinto. She never saw him…he saw her. He wanted to stop and grab her…not letting her go until he told her what he had remembered. No…he had a job to finish. Joe dismounted his horse in front of the mercantile store. Grace Harrington met Joe. “Grace, have you seen Sam Fenton?”

“I saw him earlier heading to the Silver Dollar,” Grace answered as her two daughters ran to her.

“Grace, keep the girls here and off the street!” Joe warned as he walked down the street toward the saloon, eyeing his brothers as they rode into town. They followed Joe to the saloon.

Joe swung the folded doors so hard they slammed against the wall getting attention from the patrons. They moved quickly away as Joe approached the table where Sam Fenton was sitting.

“Joe, want you join me for a drink?”

“This is not a social call, Fenton.” Joe grabbed him by the lapels. “You thought you could get away with Anna’s abduction leaving her bound and blindfolded where she couldn’t see you. But you made a mistake…you were hoping I would never remember the beating…but I have…your face was the last one I saw as I fell against that stove.”

Fenton’s three companions started to draw their guns, but Adam and Hoss were faster. “Gentlemen, I think you need to drop your guns. Our little brother is not through!” Adam warned.

“This is for Anna!” Joe crashed his fist into Fenton’s face. Fenton staggered gaining his balance returning the punch to Joe’s midriff. Fenton’s punch to Joe’s face sent him falling against the bar. Joe could feel the blood ooze from his nose and the side of his mouth. He sprang from the floor punching Fenton causing him to fall on the table. Joe pulled the dazed Fenton hitting him in the face. Somehow Fenton reflected the blow hitting Joe hard in the chest, but Joe held his ground, sending a hard blow into Fenton’s face. Fenton reeled and fell to his knees. Joe continued the relentless pounding until he heard a voice calling him. “Joe…Joe…he’s had enough.” Hoss called to him hoping he would release Fenton. “No…Hoss…I’m not though with him!” Both Adam and Hoss knew Joe better than anyone in that saloon knowing the damage he could inflict in anger, but both were unprepared for Joe’s next act.

Joe jerked the bloodied, dazed Fenton from the floor onto his knees and dragged him out the front door. Fenton half-walked and half-crawled down the street until Joe came to a final stop…in front of Anna sitting at the ticket office. “I want you to look at her! Anna, this is the man who abducted you…Sam Fenton. This is the face you couldn’t see, but a voice that was familiar! Why did you have to keep her bound as sick as she was…you could have let her go! You wanted me…not her!”

Anna stared at the bloodied, beaten man as everything in sight began spinning. Her stomach churned as she felt a tinge of nausea. Joe glanced at her pale face noticing the quivering of her lower lip. He dropped Fenton rushing to Anna as she fainted in his arms. He gently lifted her in his arms and carried her to the doctor’s office.

Adam and Hoss led the badly beaten Fenton and his companions to the sheriff’s office. “I think Sheriff Coffee would be interested in hearing about Anna’s abduction and my little brother’s beating. Let’s go!” yelled Adam.

XXX

The three brothers waited in the sitting room as Dr. Martin examined Anna. “Joe, you and Anna have something in common…neither one of you will eat went you are upset. That young lady hasn’t eaten since you told her to go to San Francisco. Furthermore, the sight of that bloodied, beaten man didn’t help matters, so she fainted. She’s alright. Now get in there…she wants to see you.” Paul Martin smiled. “Let me go over to Roy’s office and see what damage you have inflicted on Sam Fenton.”

“Anna…Anna,” Joe whispered as he gazed at her pale face. “I’m so sorry.”

“Joseph.” Anna tried to rise, but Joe laid his hands on her shoulders preventing her from doing so. “It is not your fault.”

“Yes, it is. I got so angry over the telegram…I should have handled the whole incident better than I did.”

“Joseph, I want to stay with you. I love you so much. I would be so unhappy without you.”

“Anna, I love you and I never want you to leave me.”

“Do you think we can try again?”

“Yes, my darling, I think we can.” Joe helped Anna from the examining table. Joe held Anna as he escorted her to the ticket office. The ticket agents noticed the concern look on Anna’s face”

“Donnie, where is my luggage and trunk?”

“Miss Anna, Adam took your luggage over to the boarding house and Hoss took your trunk to the Opera House.”

Anna eyes widened. “Hoss carried that trunk by himself! It took four men to carry it!”

“Yes ma’am. Ol Hoss picked up that trunk like there was nothing in it.”

Anna smiled at Joe as Hoss walked across the street followed by Emily and Margaret Harrington. “Miss Anna, we’d figured you weren’t leaving so Hoss took your trunk back to the studio,” Emily said sheepishly.

“We even unpacked it for you!” Margaret remarked gloating

“Dadburnit, Anna, you better be staying. I ain’t gonna move that trunk again.”

“Don’t worry Hoss, I am staying.”

“Well, this is cause for a celebration!” exclaimed Adam.

“Girls, go get Miss Grace. We’re eating supper at the International House.”

“Joseph, we can not have a celebration without your father.” Anna remarked.

“Pa, I saw him enter the Mercantile Store. Since he worries to much about me, he’s never too long in coming to town to find me.”

Ben approached his youngest son from behind. “Joseph, yes I do worry about you. What happened to your face? Don’t tell me…I can just imagine.”

“Pa. I can explain everything.”

“No. Joseph, you may just give me a headache.” Ben laughed putting his arm around his son. “Anna I’m glad that you’re not leaving. Now, everyone, let’s go celebrate.”

THE END

May 31,2001