Summary: A continuation of Advanced Warning
Rating:  PG  (52,600 words)

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The Cartwright Saga Series:

The Lawyer
The Homecoming
Home to Stay
Honeymoon and Arguments
Joe and Marie
Adam and Carole
A European Trip
The Aftermath
A Busy Summer
A Tree Falls
San Fracisco Trip
A Stranger from the Past
A Sense of Blame
The Medicine Man
Courtship and Cattle Drives
Angels with Red Hair?
Thieves and Murderers
Pipeline Problems
Guests for Christmas
A Turbulent Preacher
Joe and Nita
Ben and Beth
Banks, Pipelines, and Railroads
Lost
A New Operation
A Slow Recovery
Celebrations
Forest Fire
A Premature Birth
The Bank of California
Trail Drive
Robbery and Assault
Virginia City on Fire
Rebuilding Virginia City
Catching Up
Christenings, Commissions, and Christmas
Winter Ills
The Lawyer #2 – Advance Warning
The Lawyer #3 – Family Row #1
The Lawyer #4 – Family Row #2
The Lawyer #5 – Family Row #3
The Lawyer #6 – The Spanish Land Grant #1
The Lawyer #7 – The Spanish Land Grant #2 – Court Hearing
The Lawyer #8 – The Spanish Land Grant #3 – Knight Errant
The Lawyer #9 – The Spanish Land Grant #4 – The Long Journey Home
The Lawyer #10 – The Spanish Land Grant #5 – Troy’s Last Stand

Book 1 – 

Summary: Adam finds putting his plans into action more difficult than he`d expected, especially when his brothers come home.

 

Adam was up early the day after his return from Sacramento, he was expecting his father over once Ben knew that he was home but for now Adam concentrated on his children. He knew that his family would do their best to protect the children however they felt about him but inevitably he was going to see less of them over the coming weeks, so he made the most of them while he could.

 

Ben had heard of his son’s return and hoped that Adam had got over his spate of bad temper; they didn’t normally last very long. He decided to leave his visit until after lunch, give husband and wife a chance to settle whatever was troubling them. In fact Adam had decided that he needed to continue building up his image and mid-morning he rode out and over to the main house. Ben was working on the accounts and Adam went straight over to pour himself a brandy, barely acknowledging his father.

 

Ben put his pen down and considered his son. Adam was showing signs of his hard trip, but they could equally have been signs of a hangover. Normally Ben would have enquired just where he’d been and why but it was written all over his son that questions would not be appreciated.

 

Adam picked up some of the papers on the desk, a couple of legal queries and a contract to be drawn, “I’ll deal with these.” He said brusquely and settled down by the fire to work, ignoring his father.

 

It was rather harder when Hop Sing came in, glad to see one of his favourite people and discounting all the rumours which were flying around. Hop Sing wanted to know if Adam was staying for lunch and Adam found it even more difficult to be curt with him than with Ben. Adam frowned, collecting his papers, “No I don’t want lunch or coffee or anything, just some peace and quiet.” Adam ignored the hurt look on the old man’s face and retreated to the bedroom, which had always been his. He locked the door and determined not to leave an impossible job for his family. He spent two hours working hard, clearing the routine legal work but he had no intention of passing it back yet, it wasn’t urgent and his current image demanded a delay in the work.

 

If Adam had got through a lot of work the same was certainly not true of his father. Ben had tried to settle but all he could see was his son’s face, withdrawn and tense. Eventually Ben gave up all attempts to work and put his pen down. He stood staring out at the Sierra Nevada, the view that he knew Adam loved and came to the conclusion that he had to talk to his son, the tension between them was becoming unbearable. He could only wait until Adam came back downstairs, invading his chosen sanctuary would only make matters worse. It seemed a very long time before he heard Adam moving about and Ben went over to wait at the bottom of the stairs.

 

Adam saw his father waiting and knew he wasn’t going to get away without questions. He found it hard to see the compassion and worry in his father’s eyes and knew that he could only make matters worse but it had to be done. Adam took a moment to get control of himself, cut himself off from his father, scared Ben would sense his feelings. Then he went on down Ben said, “We need to talk Adam.”

 

“There’s nothing to talk about Pa.”

 

“I think there is.”

 

“Leave it to me.”

 

“I’ve been doing that son but you don’t seem to be sorting it out on your own, I think it might help to talk.”

 

Adam couldn’t just turn and walk out although he knew it was probably the sensible thing to do but the hurt and compassion in his father’s gaze got to him. He went closer to his father and gripped Ben’s shoulder. “Pa I’m full grown, a wife and family of my own. I admit I’m restless but please trust me, leave it to Carole and me to sort it out.”

 

For a minute Ben saw Adam back to his normal self and he relaxed but then Adam seemed to withdraw again, “It may take a while Pa, but don’t worry we’ll find our own solution.”

 

Then Adam pulled away and it was no act when he went over to pour himself a brandy, for once he really needed the drink, shaken by how close he had come to telling his father everything. He had to become harder if he was to pull it off.

 

When Adam turned back having drained the brandy Ben was all too aware that his son had withdrawn from him again and it was no surprise when Adam announced that he was going to town. Adam was glad to get away and he rode slowly into town, needing time to get control of himself. He had committed himself to a course of action and for the safety of those he loved he had to carry it through. By the time he got to town he was firmly in control and he went first to the Palace and then the Bucket O’Blood. He ordered several drinks but with judicious spilling only drank a fraction. He got into a poker game, a sufficiently expert player to end up a considerable winner. He promised to give his opponents a chance of revenge but for now he had to get home and he made it fairly obvious that he resented his wife’s demands. Then he headed home, finally arriving about 3.30 a.m. He had been thinking hard on the way home, it was becoming increasingly obvious that he would need somewhere to work once the information he required started arriving. He couldn’t spend too much time at Jess’ it would focus attention on his friend, which was the last thing that Adam needed. Eventually tired out Adam shelved it to think about in the morning when he was more awake.

 

Adam rumpled up the spare bed with every intention of moving into it later in the morning but for now he needed the comfort of his wife’s arms. Carole had been asleep but she was on the alert for him and woke up as he came in the room. She felt the tension as Adam slipped in next to her and for a moment she just held him close, letting her presence calm him. Adam

Buried his face in her hair and eventually he said “I nearly told Pa, the hurt and compassion were so obvious.”

 

“He could act Adam, just as well as you.”

 

“No, we agreed just us. Hoss and Joe have to be convincing. I know how hard it is to act and hurt family. I can’t make Pa do that too, it’s easier for him to be hurt now, just for a few weeks.”

 

Carole knew that Adam was right and that her husband would keep the burden, carry it alone rather than let his father be hurt, Slowly Adam relaxed and he slept for nearly two hours before slipping out and into the spare room,, leaving Carole asleep.

 

Adam dozed for an hour before the twins were up and as though with a homing instinct found Daddy. They were a little puzzled at finding him in a strange room but as Adam started tickling them they combined to attack him and quickly forgot as they enjoyed playing with him. Adam felt better for their company, more refreshed than by a full night’s sleep and he made up his mind about the next move.

 

Over breakfast he told Carole that he was going to make a tour of the ranch. It needed doing and would save his father a job but by judicious planning he could make two high profile visits to town and get the hands talking. Carole knew all too well that sleep wasn’t going to be part of this programme but she wouldn’t try to stop him. The only way she could help was to give him her unstinting support. Adam left straight after breakfast and went to see his father. He collected wage packets and a note of the relevant information both to hand out and what needed to be collected. Ben thought that his son seemed calmer and he hoped that the ride round the ranch would settle his son, remind him of the land they loved and hopefully clear him of this restlessness.

 

Adam was on edge, he knew that he had to convince his old friends Jack and José in particular and they knew him nearly as well as his brothers. He went down to the crew planting hay on the bottom lands of the Carson valley for the winter feed. They were mainly relative strangers and though a trifle brusque Adam was his efficient self. He finished up just after lunch and rode up to see the timber crew working on some small timber low on he hillside. Once he’d checked everything and paid them he rode onto the sawmill.

 

Jack was busy but as usual he was well organized. He had heard all too many rumours and was glad to see his old friend fit and well. Even word of Adam’s excessive drinking and trouble at home had reached Jack but he wouldn’t interfere, the old Indian knew better. He studied Adam carefully and recognized the tension in him but made no comment Adam stuck to work but carefully made a couple of minor slips and waited for Jack to correct him. They weren’t important but were mistakes Adam would never normally make. He accepted the corrections but made it clear that he was annoyed with Jack for doing it. Jack expected him to camp at the mill and head up to see José at daybreak but Adam just had coffee and refused food, He didn’t attempt to hide the fact that he was going back to town, or the reason, claiming that having won a considerable sum of money the previous night it was only fair to give his opponents the chance of revenge. Indians were supposed to be inscrutable but Adam could see very clearly the disapproval on his friend’s face. It was the reaction that he wanted but even so it came hard, he wasn’t used to disapproval of his actions. Adam headed into town and rejoined the poker game. He might not be popular on some fronts but it seemed he couldn’t lose and although he only played for a couple of hours he won more than two thousand dollars. His opponents were furious but two of them were professionals and knowing what a rich pigeon they had they were prepared to try again, sure his luck must run out. Adam promised to come back the following night and then headed out. It was already very late and Adam rode slowly up to the high pasture to see José.

 

Of all the people on the ranch José Bettencourt knew Adam best and he was quick and intuitive, other than his brothers Adam feared him most. However he had to face José sometime and it would be good practice for facing his brothers. Adam managed to cover the easy trail in the dark and as the sun rose he cut up towards the high pasture. José wasn’t surprised to see him early, assuming that he had come from the sawmill. José settled the details and collected the wages before turning to Adam, determination written all over him.

“Let’s go sit over there have some coffee I need to talk.”

 

Adam knew that he wasn’t going to get away without talking and followed José over to some rocks to sit down and sip his coffee. José couldn’t settle, “Adam what the hell is going on? I keep hearing rumours and they don’t sound very much like you.”

 

“It’s happened before José, just ignore it.”

“Is anything wrong?”

 

“Not really just a mite restless.”

 

“Adam we’ve been friends a long time and I don’t usually interfere but for once just hear me out.” José saw the withdrawal on Adam’s face but he felt he had to talk, “You have more than most men can dream of and I don’t just mean material things. Make sure you don’t throw them away for some will o’ wisp.”

 

Adam got to his feet, anger clear on his face but José risked a detaining hand on his arm, “Just one more thing Adam and I’ll shut up. No matter what or why if you ever need my help it’s yours.”

 

Adam was touched by the offer especially as José obviously didn’t approve of what he was doing and he relaxed a little trying to laugh it off, “Thanks José, but just remember the rumours get a bit out of proportion. Don’t believe all that you hear. I must get on got an appointment in town. I’ll see you in a couple of weeks.” José watched his friend leave still very worried and when the man sent to collect stores in town reported that Adam’s ‘appointment’ appeared to have been with a poker game, he couldn’t help fearing that the rumours were all too true.

 

Hoss had been pushing as hard as he could and with an excellent team he managed to finish his work on the Sunday. He left his men to tidy up and return to the ranch while he headed for the west shore knowing that his little brother had got the really tough job. Hoss asked Chub for that little extra wanting to get to Joe’s camp before dusk and after several easy days his horse responded willingly.

 

Joe had been working all hours but even so he was getting further and further behind his schedule even with all the help he was getting. He was totally convinced that something was wrong but all the reports on the telegraph denied problems and he couldn’t talk it over with anyone. He could only wait until he could get home and see for himself but it was a vicious circle, the more he worried the less sleep he got and the longer things took delaying his return and worrying him more. Joe could feel himself getting more and more short tempered and irritable but he fought hard against taking it out on his men, they were doing their best to help.

 

By Sunday Joe was tired out and had a severe headache but he was still trying to sort out the paperwork and finding his attention wandering once again to his family. At first as Hoss came into the tent Joe didn’t believe what he was seeing and as he sat back and looked up in surprise, Hoss could see how necessary his trip had been.. Hoss moved over and gripped his brother’s shoulder, “Looks as though you’ve been busy Joe.”

 

Joe relaxed so pleased to see his brother, “Just a mite. What the heck are you doing here, trouble?”

 

Hoss swiftly reassured him, “No trouble Joe. I had the easier job, got finished up early and thought you might need a hand, not so easy over here.”

 

Joe pulled away, “I can cope, you’ve done your share.”

 

“Between us we can finish up easy, you might even get some sleep little brother, looks like you need it.”

Joe sighed heavily but then meeting his brother’s eyes he said, “It’s not the work. Oh I admit I’ve been busy and I would be glad of some help but more importantly I need to talk.” He pushed his papers away, “These can wait, let’s get some grub and go sit by the lake.”

 

Hoss was puzzled by his brother’s reaction, he hadn’t heard of any trouble and with the telegraph giving daily news he hadn’t been worrying, too busy on his own job to think about home. He knew Joe too well to push him until they had got food and moved right away from the other men. Hoss was hungry and ate while Joe pushed his food around not really interested in food. Hoss left his little brother to talk when he was ready but it wasn’t until Joe had collected coffee that he was ready to start.

 

“There’s something wrong Hoss. The reports say no, not a hint of trouble but I’m sure there is. Have you felt anything?”

 

Hoss shook his head, “Not a hint. What do you think is wrong?”

 

Joe got to his feet and stared out over the Lake. “I only wish I knew. I think Pa’s worried and upset but it’s Adam.”

 

“If he was hurt we’d know.”

 

Joe couldn’t even face his brother as he struggled to put into words what he felt. “All my life Adam’s been there, I wasn’t always conscious of it before he went to Europe but even then he was reachable. Since he came back over the years it’s become clearer. Most of the time I’m not even aware of using it but I know I can. I can reach out and he’s there, for reassurance maybe. Oh I know it’s clearer, more definite, when there’s trouble but always in the background, a thread, something. Do you know what I mean?”

 

Hoss bit his lip, “In a way Joe. I can’t do it, oh I feel you, Adam and Pa on occasion and I know you can all reach me, but it’s only on special things, trouble joy. I guess I’ve always known you and Adam are closer ….”

 

Joe turned at that and went to Hoss forcing his brother to look at him, “That’s just not true Hoss. Once Adam said you could never choose between those you love, just pray that you never have to. You’ll never know how much I’ve relied on your strength and your patience, and I know Adam does too. Just as we all rely on Pa. It’s just that Adam sort of brought me up and even more than Pa he knows me inside out. God it used to annoy me…. Maybe our thoughts are more in tune sometimes I don’t know.”

 

Joe turned back towards the lake, “I just know that he’s always been there, until now.”

 

“What do you mean Joe?”

 

“I can’t reach him. The telegraph says he’s fine. I even got desperate enough to ask, but when I reach out I can’t get anything. Can you?”

 

“I’ve never been able to call it up deliberately like you and Adam can. He’s not hurt I’d know that.”

 

“I know but it’s as though he’s cut himself off. He didn’t do that even when he ran away to Europe.”

 

“Maybe it’s just ‘cos you’re overtired Joe. Get a good night’s sleep and it could look different in the morning.”

 

Joe didn’t look at all convinced and Hoss put his arm round his brother’s shoulders, feeling the tension in him. “Look if he’s physically okay and the telegraph confirms that, I mean Pa would tell us if ….. What else could be wrong? He’s got Carole and the kids now he won’t leave again.”

 

“That’s what has kept me up nights. It don’t make any sense and Adam don’t do things that don’t make sense.”

 

“You’re not making a hell of a lot of sense yourself little brother. Let’s both have an early night and then over the next couple of days we can finish up here and be free to go see for

ourselves.”

 

Joe nodded but he still looked very worried and Hoss suggested, “If you’re that worried, ride on home now. I can finish up here.”

 

Joe vehemently refused that, he would accept his brother’s help despite feeling Hoss had done his share, but he would not and could not hand over to Hoss. Hoss accepted that, not having really expected any other reaction but he did insist on an early night. Having at least partially talked it out, Joe relaxed sufficiently for nature to have its way and desperately tired he was soon asleep. Hoss for once found it difficult to sleep, knowing that Joe’s fears were very real to him and wondering just what they did mean. His brothers were very close and both meant a great deal to him. Eventually Hoss slept determined to finish up and get home as soon as possible when they could find out the facts.

 

Adam didn’t know as he toured the ranch that his brothers were worried but he wouldn’t have been surprised, He had schooled himself carefully not to reach out to them, if he could sense them then equally they might learn things he didn’t want them to know. He had heard over the telegraph that Hoss had joined Joe and that they hoped to be finished on Wednesday and return the following day. On the Tuesday night after he left José Adam played poker all night, making a veiled comment that he’d been touring the ranch so noone would be hanging around waiting for him. Despite all their efforts Adam was not to be caught, he knew when the odds were against him and didn’t bet heavily, with the odds in his favour he did bet and won more than he lost so that he was winning steadily. His reputation had prevented the two professional sharks playing together; they had just   given each other a slight assist but faced with another evening showing a heavy loss they decided enough was enough. Adam had been drinking heavily, even if only half of the amount he had apparently taken and the first time one of the men dealt from the bottom he wasn’t entirely sure. Alert for it on the second occasion he was positive and with nothing in his own hand he threw in and sat back sipping his brandy, trying to work out how to react. He could ignore it which might add to the idea of his fallibility but only if others knew and he couldn’t see this pair boasting. He could break up the game, it was gone 4 a.m. excuse enough in all conscience or he could call them on cheating cause a drunken brawl.

 

It seemed too good an opportunity to miss and he decided on the third option as the most public. He waited until the next deal which was even more blatant and the called the men cheats, flipping over the cards to prove his point. Those men in the saloon got back quickly fearing gunplay and Don McBride hauled out his scatter gun and came out to try and prevent trouble, puzzled by Adam’s attitude. Usually he could rely on Adam to squash trouble, not start it.

Adam didn’t want it turning into a shooting match and he deliberately fumbled his draw as though very drunk and dropped his gun before launching himself across the table, taking both the gamblers to the floor with him. Then the three men fought and scrambled breaking chairs and tables but without doing any great damage until Don came over and pulled them apart with some help from Roy who had been woken as soon as it started.

 

Roy wasn’t at all pleased to be disturbed at that hour of the morning and hauled the two gamblers down to the jail until the morning when he was going to order them out of town. He told Adam in no uncertain terms to come too. Once the two men were locked up Roy shut the door to the cells and poured two coffees passing one of them to Adam. Adam perched on the desk, not nearly as drunk as he was pretending but still having had rather more than he would have liked. Many people underestimated the genial sheriff of Storey County but Adam knew Roy far too well to make that mistake. Adam went to push the coffee away but Roy wasn’t having it, “Drink it Adam you’re more drunk than I’ve seen you in years, need it.”

 

“What the hell business is it of yours?”

 

“You start breaking up saloons, that makes it my business. What’s the matter with you Adam?”

 

“Nothing.”

 

“I’ll have my say and then you’d better go and sleep it off. I’ve known you a good many years and there’s no man in this state that I have more respect for but this last couple of weeks you have been making a fool of yourself. I don’t know why or what’s wrong, I just know it’s not like you.”

 

“There’s nothing wrong Roy. So I’ve had a drink, a game of poker, aren’t I entitled?”

 

“More than one drink Adam. Point is you’re not entitled to start fights, cause trouble and if you do, friend or not I’ll treat you like any other troublemaker. I hope I never have to, I owe you a lot and I know how Ben would feel, but I will if I have to. Noone is above the law in Virginia City.”

 

Adam put the coffee down barely touched and said with more than a touch of insolence, “Lecture over sheriff?”

 

Roy glared at him confused and angered by his attitude, “Go home Adam and sort yourself out.”

 

Adam was glad to get out of the jail, he had been working hard to engender that contempt but it still hurt to see it in the eyes of his friend. Needing to talk and not wanting to upset Carole he decided to stop by Jess’ ranch and see if he had any news. It was still early enough to reach the ranch before anyone was stirring and he knew that his friend wouldn’t mind being woken early.

 

The covered way at Jess’ was proving its worth for a very different reason than Adam had had in mind when he suggested it. Once again he was able to leave his horse in the barn and slip inside unseen. Blackie was still not fully fit so he was riding a non-descript bay mare which wouldn’t attract any attention.

Adam made coffee and Jess hearing him moving around, slipped out guessing who was there. Adam had settled down at the table while he waited for the coffee to heat and Jess perched on it, considering his friend, “Rough Adam?”

 

“A little. I’m just tired and rather drunk.”

 

“Heard you’d been drinking rather a lot, not the most popular man at the moment.”

 

“That’s the general idea. An impression of restlessness and disgruntled and maybe they’ll buy it when I take a mistress.”

 

Jess poured black coffee and passed it over, “How is Carole doing?”

 

“Tough for her I have to stay away from her but she is fully behind me. What choice do we have? Risk someone getting killed.”

 

Adam sipped the coffee and slowly relaxed back in the chair. “I just wish I could find a way to spill more of the drinks!”

 

Jess grinned briefly but then very serious he looked at Adam, tracing the strain which was already apparent. “You gonna cope Adam? It’s gonna be a long haul before this comes to trial and it’ll get worse when Joe and Hoss get back.”

 

“I know Jess and I can’t say that I like it. Pa’s upset, José and Jack disapproving and tonight Roy was more than a little disgusted.”

 

“Tell your family; send the girls and the kids away for the duration. You have friends who’ll help protect you. Don’t punish yourself this way.” Jess had gripped his friend’s shoulder, really worried.

 

Adam smiled, feeling better just because Jess cared. “I know you mean well Jess but as long as I can come here and blow off steam from time to time, I can cope I have to.”

 

“Why Adam? Your brothers and father will help but they can’t if they don’t know.”

 

“True but the main fight is legal, my job and I need time when the opposition isn’t on the defensive to find the best way. Anyway with Huntingdon involved I’m not sure that anywhere is safe. Don’t you think I’ve considered every possible way?”

 

“You’re hurting now and it’s gonna get worse.”

 

“I’m tough.”

 

“No you ain’t Adam, strong sure but not tough. You know as well as I do your family matter to you and their bad opinions will hurt.”

 

Adam couldn’t deny it but neither could he change this mind and for a minute he sipped his coffee in silence before changing the subject totally. “I’ve been thinking I’ll need somewhere to work once the information starts coming in. I can’t come here too often and I won’t be able to work at home, any suggestions?”

 

Jess thought hard for a minute or two before tentatively suggesting one of the line shacks. It was the only thing that Adam had been able to come up with but it wasn’t really very suitable, he’d have to hide everything each time or risk discovery. Jess poured them both fresh coffee and then inspiration dawned. “Of course that kid Adam.”

 

Adam looked totally blank not knowing what Jess was on about. Jess grinned and explained “Dick Langton has got himself set up at Jesse’s stable. When you rebuilt the stables you designed living quarters round the back.”

 

“I remember.” It was one of the many odd jobs Adam had done after the fire, he hadn’t spent long on it and Hoss had been in charge of the building.

 

Jess went on, “I’m not sure if it was part of the original plan but there’s an extra room tacked on, just a spare bedroom really and Jesse uses it for his help. It does have its own entrance from the alley and Dick’s living there.”

 

It was in town and as unobtrusive as anywhere. Adam knew that it would suit his needs admirably and the youngster with aspirations to the law could store some law books as his own without it being suspicious. Jess was hopeful that the kid might go rather further and help Adam out, at least with looking up references, make notes and neat copies. Over the last few years working closely with Adam Jess had come to understand how much laborious effort was involved in even the simplest law case.

 

Adam was eager to get back to town and make arrangements with Dick but before he went Jess had a couple of pieces of news. Steve Fallon had sent a telegram warning ‘his old friend Jess’ that he would be dropping by in a few days but he was taking the long way round via Santa Fé. Adam was surprised and touched he had wondered whether he ought to get the records at Santa Fé checked out. It was one of the oldest established towns in the west but it was a long shot and with noone obvious to send he had decided to let it go. Now he was sure Steve was doing the checks of his own volition, using more of his vacation on his friend’s problems. Steve had been a lawman long enough to know what was important in law and Adam was very grateful.

 

The other news that Jess had was local, when Lisa was in shopping she had had lunch with Marcy, Michelle and Margaret and they had passed on two things. The second candidate foe Adam’s attention Lady Dinah Marchbrooke was due in town at the weekend and secondly Margaret had stated her determination to get Adam a copy of the grant under which the claim would be made. Jess wasn’t at all surprised when Adam was thoroughly alarmed at the prospect; he had had the same reaction.

 

Adam got to his feet, pacing around restlessly, “No it’s far too risky. If they catch her….”

 

Jess said, “I know said much the same myself. Liza did try to dissuade her, warned her it might just alert them that you’d been warned. All Lisa got was a promise to wait for a couple of weeks unless there was a cast iron opportunity.”

 

“It’s not safe; they could kill her if they knew.”

 

“Margaret insisted she could do it without anyone knowing, says she’s part of the furniture, she’s worked for Hearst for a long time.”

 

“I’d better go and see her, stop her.”

 

Jess gripped his friend’s arm. “Easy Adam you can’t do that. If you’re seen with her that will put her in more danger than anything else.”

Adam knew his friend was talking sense but he felt so helpless, so many people spending time and taking risks for him, while all he did was get drunk.

 

Jess promised to speak to Margaret himself, she was coming out on Sunday for another sewing bee, and with that Adam had to be content. Adam changed his mind about going back to town and decided he’d better show his face at home. He rode into his own house but only took time to change before going over to the main house to work. All the children were up and he spared them five minutes but with the kids underfoot he couldn’t talk to Carole, Having spent a while with Jess, he’d relaxed a little and was able to hide the hurt which had been so obvious when he first arrived at Jess’. Carole wasn’t entirely taken in but things were no worse than they had both expected and she let him go, reasonably content, confident that her husband was coping.

 

Nita had been going over to see Carole when she saw Adam ride in. Knowing how little time he was spending at home, she changed her plans and went over to Sue’s instead leaving husband and wife alone. Both of them saw Adam leave again a bare twenty minutes later and Nita couldn’t restrain herself, “What is the matter with Adam? He’s never home and yet from the amount Pa’s doing he’s hardly working. He’s not even been by to see the baby like he usually does and Carole’s not talking.”

 

Sue had seen exactly the same and was equally worried but she couldn’t believe anything bad of her brother-in-law. “Maybe he’s still not fully fit after that accident and doesn’t want Carole to know.”

 

Nita showed her disbelief clearly but her only comment was, “Thank God Joe and Hoss will be home tomorrow. Maybe they can sort him out.”

 

Adam was glad to find his father out and spent the next hour writing down what information he had gathered round the ranch. There was still a contract query to deal with and a rather more complicated counter claim on the California. Adam dealt with the contract quickly and then turned to the mining query. There were two ways to deal with it, both of which would, he was confident, give them the verdict. The first was the orthodox long route but Adam could see a much neater and quicker way to reach the same conclusion. Adam went and poured himself coffee, it was a twist of mining law that he’d used with great effect once before. Joe had helped him then and Adam had great confidence in his little brother’s legal ability and was sure that Joe would pick up the quick way of doing it. To keep in his current character Adam ignored it and began the long laborious preparations needed for the more orthodox reply. He hadn’t got very far when he heard his father ride in and swiftly poured himself a brandy and took a sip. He had already lowered the level by the equivalent of three large drinks and poured that down the sink along with the dregs of his coffee.

 

Ben had been in town to the bank and as he often did he had stopped by the jail to see his old friend and scrounge some coffee, By the time Roy had finished Ben was wishing he hadn’t, though he was honest enough to admit to himself that he did need to know. Roy had told Ben about the trouble at the saloon but he admitted that it worried him far less than Adam’s attitude. In anyone else he would have called it insolence and it was so unlike Adam. Roy had asked Ben to talk to his eldest son and Ben rode home with plenty to think about, admitting to himself, albeit to noone else, that on current form he didn’t think he’d have much effect on Adam.

 

Ben’s already rather precarious hold on his temper wasn’t improved on finding Adam swilling brandy at eleven-thirty in the morning. Ben managed to bite back the angry words and he turned to take off his hat, coat and gun, giving himself a minute to get control.

Adam had seen his father’s anger and had no real choice but to use it to keep Ben off balance, afraid that otherwise his father, who knew him so well, would see through his act. He lent back in his chair putting his feet up on the desk, which always annoyed his father and sipped his brandy.

 

When Ben turned round and saw that, together with the expression of withdrawal on Adam’s face, all his good intentions vanished, “What the hell do you think you’re doing Adam? You’re a bit old for me to be getting complaints from the sheriff that you’re breaking up saloons.”

 

“You’re right I am too old. Far too old for you to interfere, it’s none of your business.”

 

“When an old friend like Roy has to ….”

 

Adam broke in, “Roy had no right to talk to you.”

 

“From what he said it’ll be all over the paper.”

 

“So what? It’s not the first time and it’s still no one’s business but mine. I’m sick to death of this family, never there when they could be useful, wanting carried on finance, law, planning, even fighting but always ready to stick their noses in when it’s none of their business.” Adam threw the brandy glass into the fireplace where it shattered, “I’ve had it, I’m going to town.” He grabbed his gun and hat, not even waiting to put them on, and went out to his horse.

 

Ben was stunned by his son’s words and his hurt look haunted Adam all the way to town. It was what he had worked for and in time Ben would understand why but that didn’t really ease the guilt Adam felt just now. He remembered very vividly Joe coming north to join him after a bitter quarrel with his father and perhaps for the first time Adam really knew how Joe had felt. He had always understood but with his head, not his heart, now he felt the pain himself. Adam had no real plan of action in town, he just wanted to be seen, give the French girl a chance to make an approach.

 

Ben sat staring into the unlit fire, not even seeing the broken glass, just his son’s cold withdrawn face. He was very worried just how much of what Adam had said, his son really felt. Ben freely admitted that in many ways over the last few years, ever since Adam returned from Europe, the whole family had come to depend on him. Ben had made a deliberate decision to release some of his control wanting to keep his son on the ranch and he had thought that Adam revelled in it. After all his son had the best brain and undoubted expertise in many areas, certainly in the fields of law and finance, he replied heavily on his eldest son and normally any suggestion of bringing in extra help was firmly refuse by Adam. He sometime felt that Adam did more than his share but any attempt to say so to Adam had until now got very firmly refuted by his son. It was the statement about his family not being there when needed that really worried Ben. He wondered just how deep the effects of Adam’s ordeal really went. It had very obviously been a long painful time when his son had been forced to look after his own injuries but until now he hadn’t thought Adam blamed anyone but himself for their inability to find him.

 

Hop Sing offered lunch but Ben wasn’t hungry and very worried about his son he couldn’t settle to work and rode up to the lake, needing time to think.

 

Adam had gone to town and he made his first stop at the livery stable. The owner Jesse Whelan was an old Ponderosa hand and was always hopeful for the chance of a gossip with anyone from the ranch. This time Adam gave him the opportunity and Jesse gripped it with both hands. He had never had a chance to show Adam the stables and the attached house even though Adam had designed it for him. Adam didn’t need to encourage him in order to be shown round. He was introduced to Dick, who acted well, acknowledging Adam as though he was a complete stranger. It was quickly obvious to Adam that Dick’s room would suit his purposes admirably. He managed to have a private word with the young man before leaving the stable and arranged to meet in his room sometime that evening.

 

Adam went down to the Bucket O’Blood for a steak before doing anything else, after a sleepless night he was already tired and just wanted a few minutes peace and quiet. He wasn’t to get it as Dan saw him going into the saloon. Dan had heard about the previous evening’s fight and heard Roy’s views on Adam’s behaviour. Now he wanted to get Adam’s side of the story, it really didn’t sound a lot like the man he knew so well. Adam sighed as he saw the tall reporter walk in; he could guess all too easily why Dan was there.  Dan came over and joined him, ordering a beer and took in the large brandy that Adam had alongside his food. Adam had intended getting coffee and spilling the brandy but with Dan sitting there he knew he daren’t risk it and sipped the brandy.

 

Dan found himself basically ignored as Adam concentrated on his steak. Dan sipped his beer and traced the signs of strain on his friend’s face. Eventually Dan said, “Off the record Adam, I’m here as a friend only, not a reporter.”

 

Adam didn’t even look up to acknowledge he had spoken. Dan went on, “Come on Adam we’ve been friends a long time. What the hell’s wrong?”

 

Adam realised he wasn’t going to get rid of Dan without some answer and he sat back, pushing his plate away and picking up his brandy. He forced a smile and sipped his drink,

“Dan it is hardly the first time I have been in a minor fight.”

 

“You don’t usually start them Adam.” Dan said as mildly as he could

 

“I am not prepared to sit and be cheated and I never have been.”

 

“Why on earth were you playing with two professional gamblers like them anyway?”

 

“I enjoyed it, at least they could give me a game and they didn’t win until they started cheating. I made several thousand dollars.”

 

“You don’t need the money.”

 

“Dan it’s only because we are friends that I haven’t given you what you’re asking for. What I do is my business. If I want a game of poker I can have one. It is nothing to do with my family as long as I only use my own money and it is certainly nothing to do with you.” Adam let his anger show, “Now I suggest you get out of here and leave me in peace Dan, before I forget we are friends.”

 

Dan was very surprised by Adam’s attitude, although he had to admit it was in line with what Roy had said. Since he showed no sign of moving, Adam downed his brandy, threw a dollar down to cover his meal and walked out himself. He had business at the bank and completed that before deciding what to do next. As he came out of the bank he was rather surprised to be approached by a young man, who was a total stranger. The youngster Paul Bowen introduced himself once he had confirmed that he was speaking to Adam Cartwright and said that he was representing John Maynard. Mr Maynard was interested in discussing a possible timber contract with the Ponderosa and had been going to approach the Cartwrights but hearing Adam was in town wondered if he would attend a meeting for preliminary discussions. Adam was about to turn him down, they needed no more contracts at this time of the year. Then he remembered hearing that Maynard, who was a major stockholder in the Belcher mine, was in fact a front man for George Hearst. It had only been a rumour of little interest at the time but if true maybe this was the initial move that he’d come to town to provoke. Deciding that he could always turn Maynard down Adam told Bowen that he would come by the International Hotel about 3 o’clock.

 

Adam allowed them time to set the scene if that was what they wanted and went down to Marye’s stockbrokers and checked out his own personal holdings. Adam felt he might need some cash at short notice that he didn’t want his family to know about. The easiest way to get it was to sell off some of his minor holdings. Adam knew John Marye well enough to be sure that if he asked John to sell privately and not tell anyone that would be exactly what was done, however much speculation that caused in the stockbroker’s mind. Certainly as he detailed exactly what he wanted done, especially that he wanted the money in the form of an open bank draft, which he would collect personally, rather than as usual having it paid into his account, he could see the speculation growing in Marye’s eyes. At least the stockbroker made no comment about any of the rumours flying around and just accepted his client’s instructions. Adam left him confident that his wishes would be obeyed in all respects, including secrecy.

 

It was twenty minutes before three and Adam wandered into the Place and ordered a beer, too thirsty to face another brandy, but rather than join acquaintances or chat at the bar, he took it off to a table on his own. His whole attitude made it clear that he didn’t want to be bothered.

 

Adam sat quietly trying to sort out what he needed Dick to do for him so that he could be clear when he saw the kid later. Then he took five minutes to just relax, try and clear his thoughts before heading over to the hotel, expecting that things would now start in earnest  but realising that he was building an awful lot on a half remembered rumour that might well not have been true anyway.

 

In fact Adam’s memory served him well and the rumour had been perfectly correct, although very annoying to both Maynard and Hearst. Hearst had set the stage well making use of the manager of the International Hotel. The French girl Suzanne Fauré had been staying at the hotel since her arrival the previous Sunday, now with Adam coming she had left the hotel and in her absence her orders to pack all her belongings as she was vacating her suite were accepted. As she had instructed her bags were brought down to the lobby. She had taken care not to give the orders direct using Grandison as a front man and now with word that Adam was on his way she had gone to complain bitterly at the main desk, denying all knowledge of any instructions to pack her bags. She was relying on the fact that Adam was known to be proficient in French and a gentleman to attract his attention. When she estimated that Adam must be close she switched to her own language. The manager who had been called to the desk was completely bemused as a stream of French hit him and the young lady who had, a moment before, been talking sensibly in English now didn’t seem to understand the language at all.

 

Adam walked into the lobby to see a very attractive blonde, who was obviously upset saying, “Non, non Je ne comprends pas. Ce n’est pas vrai Je me suis chargé de rester à l’hôtel pendant quatre ou cinq semaines”   (“No, no I don’t understand. It isn’t true. I intended staying at the hotel for another five or six weeks”)

 

It was very obvious to Adam that this was set up for his benefit. This had to be Suzanne Fauré and he guessed that the whole scene had been arranged since he accepted the invitation to talk. Adam toyed with the idea of going through to his appointment and making them work for it but he was eager to get started and quickly decided to take the bait. There was nothing on his face to lead to any suspicion that he guessed what was happening as he moved over to the desk, “Mademoiselle. Je parle français peut-être que vous me permettriez d’aider?”  (“Mademoiselle I speak french, perhaps you will allow me to help?”)

 

Suzanne easily recognised Adam from the description she had been given and turned to him eagerly, “Monsieur vous êtes très aimable. Quand je suis dans un trempe moi oubliez mon anglais. Le directeur de cet hôtel me dit que que j’ai donné des commandes pour que mes sacs soient emballés et réduits, cela je quitte ma suite, mais je ne prévois pas partir pendant plusieurs semaines encore. Je ne comprends pas pourquoi il fait ceci à moi que je veux retourner à ma suite avec tout mon bagage mais il ne comprend pas ce que je dis. Je ne vous connais pas mais je suis très reconnaissant pour votre aide.”   (“Sir you are very kind. When I am in a temper I forget my English. The manager of this hotel tells me that I have given orders for my bags to be packed and brought down, that I am leaving my suite, but I do not intend leaving for several weeks yet. I do not understand why he is doing this to me I want to go back to my suite with all my luggage but he does not understand what I say. I do not know you but I am very grateful for your help.”)

 

Adam smiled at her, “Mon plasir Mademoiselle.” Then he turned to the Manager who still looked very puzzled. Over the previous few days the young lady had spoken perfectly adequate, if rather prettily accented, English and he said as much to Adam.   (“My pleasure Mademoiselle”)

 

Adam smiled, “I’m sure she will again once she calms down but it’s very difficult to lose your temper in a foreign language! Now can we try and sort this out. The lady claims that she does not want to leave yet and certainly gave no orders for her bags to be packed.”

 

“We had orders Adam.”

 

“I’m sure you did but it seems to have been a mistake, whose hardly matters. Is her original suite still free?”

 

“Well yes it is.”

 

“Then why not settle this at once, have her things taken back, apologize for the mix-up and let the young lady return to her suite?”

 

“Well sure Adam, no need for all of this. If only she’d made things clear. Ruddy foreigners!”

Adam nodded and spent a minute calming the manager down before turning back to a still splendidly irate Frenchwoman. “Le directeur présente ses excuses. Il a donné des commandes pour que votre bagage soit retourné à votre suite. Permettez-moi de t’offrir un boisson tandis que vous attendez votre suite à disposer.”  (“The manager offers his apologies. He has given orders for your luggage to be rerurned to your suite. Allow me to offer you a drink while you wait for your suite to be ready.”)

 

“Vous êtes très généreux Monsieur,  j’acceptez avec plaisir.”    (“You’re very generous Monsieur, I accept with pleasure.”)

 

“Je m’appelle Adam Cartwright.” (“My name is Adam Cartwright.”) Adam said offering his hand and he wasn’t exactly surprised when she dropped into English and said, “I am Suzanne Fauré and I do speak English, un peu.”   (a little)

 

Adam led the way through into the dining room and held a chair for her. He called one of the boys, who acted as messengers, over and sent him up to Maynard’s room to say that he’d been unavoidably detained and then sat back to see what this ‘bait’ was like. She was certainly very lovely although Adam usually preferred brunettes but there was nothing insipid about this blonde and although her dress was discreet, it fitted tightly enough to make her excellent figure very obvious.

Adam relaxed and let her lead the conversation which soon turned to her home town of Paris. She claimed to be in Virginia City on business, her father, before he died, had invested in several of the mines. Now she wished to find out for herself just how sound her investments were. She expressed surprise in finding anyone in this wild town who was not only proficient in her language but had even visited her beloved Paris. Adam didn’t push and neither did she but by the time the manager came to say that her suite was ready for her they had mutually agreed to have dinner together the following night.

 

Adam escorted her to her suite, kissed her hand and then rather belatedly headed up to John Maynard’s room for his appointment. Maynard was a small nondescript man, who seemed rather overwhelmed at finding the tall cowboy in his room. He almost apologized to Adam because Adam was late. Adam had seen him around town before but never spoken to him and he found it very difficult to believe in Maynard as a major stockholder, even as a front man. Maynard was almost obsequious as he asked about the possibility of the Ponderosa providing timber for the Belcher. Adam explained that as far as this season was concerned all timber requirements for their existing contracts had been planned in and they couldn’t take on any more. This blunt refusal didn’t seem to worry Maynard and he apologized for bothering Adam. Adam accepted a brandy and after a few minutes of general conversation he left. He was surprised by the inept performance Maynard had put on, feeling that even if he hadn’t already known something was going on it would have made him suspicious.

It was still too early to try and see Dick and yet hardly worth going home so Adam headed back to the Bucket O’Blood and got into a poker game. Don looked at him a little askance but brought the bottle of brandy that Adam ordered. This time the game was friendly and with no professional gamblers the stakes were lower. Adam had a lot to think about and wasn’t really concentrating on the game but he was basically a far better player than the opposition and came out ahead, playing on instinct. Adam knew that now Suzanne had made her move he would have to take her up on it fairly quickly or make it obvious that he wasn’t going to do so. He wished he knew whether the English girl would be kept out of the way until they knew whether the French girl had failed or whether  both would come forward together.

 

Adam couldn’t decide whether it was an advantage or a disadvantage to have a mistress whose first language wasn’t English. It meant she might not pick up on nuances of anything he said in English but equally he would have to be careful what he said in French. It was a long time since he had used French much and he was distinctly rusty. That could be used to explain away any mistakes that he made but on the other had he would have to think about every word he said. Adam was inclined to think that the added complication was more than he needed and although she was very lovely she wasn’t really his type. He decided not to make a decision until after dinner the next evening and if possible to delay until he’d seen the other girl. His first impression was that Suzanne was cunning and streetwise but probably nor clever enough to be a major threat which was a plus for her.

 

His mind far away from the cards he was playing Adam thoughtlessly drew two cards and was amazed to find he held a Royal Flush. Hoping that was a good omen he bet out the hand, took the sizeable pot and then called it a night.

 

Don was glad to see him leaving the saloon a lot earlier and a lot less drunk than was his wont of late. It was very obvious from his face just what he thought and Adam cursed deciding he had better return after seeing Dick for a couple of hours in line with his current image. For now he put that out of his mind and slipped away down the back alleys out of sight heading for the livery stable.

 

Adam managed to get to the stable without being seen and there were at least three other ways that he could think of to get to Dick’s. Dick had left the door to his room open and Adam slipped inside. Dick wasn’t there and Adam pulled the heavy curtains before lighting the lamp and turning it down low. Adam sat down by the fire and relaxed, glad of a few minutes quiet to get his thoughts sorted out.

 

Dick finished up at the stable and then went to his room, finding the door locked he guessed that Adam had already arrived and went in excitedly. Adam smiled at the enthusiastic boy and murmured “Lock the door Dick”

 

Adam had heated up coffee and poured out two cups, “Is Jesse home?”

 

“No he went over to the saloon.”

 

“Right the first thing I want to check is just how much can be heard through the wall. You go into the stable and I’ll talk normally in here. Wander around next door and outside in the alley to see what you can hear.”

 

Dick thought this was great and slipped out to wander around. Adam decided the easiest way of talking to himself was to recite and he was halfway through the soliloquy from Hamlet when Dick came back. Adam broke off “Well?”

 

“Can’t hear anything next door but I could hear a sort of murmur outside the door and the back windows, not enough to make out any words.”

 

“Could you recognize my voice?”

 

“I thought I could but then I knew you were in here.”

 

“We had better pad round the windows and the door just in case and try to keep our voices down. Can you get a copy of the key to this lock so I can get in when I need?”

 

“Sure Adam.”

 

“Look I want to use this room as a base to work from. If anyone finds out it could make your position dangerous. I asked for your help as a messenger boy not to stick your head in a noose, so think about it carefully. I can find somewhere else, this isn’t your fight.”

 

“No.” Dick said vehemently, “Jamie said to help and anyway I want to.”

 

Adam was touched by the boy’s enthusiasm and offered his hand almost formally. He settled down with his coffee, “You may be more help than you realise and start some legal training into the bargain.” Adam hesitated wanting to tell the kid that he would not be a loser financially and yet realising that it would be almost an insult to Dick who certainly hadn’t given money a thought. In the end Adam left it, he would see to that later.

Over coffee Adam laid out exactly what he needed. He would get Dick some law books which could ostensibly be his own. Dick had already told Jesse of his ultimate aim to study law. Adam needed a large iron box, fireproof and lockable to store the priceless copies and statements he would be collecting over the next weeks. Adam warned Dick that he might be coming to work at all sorts of odd hours and he hoped that Dick could sleep through a light. Adam suggested thicker curtains so that it wasn’t obvious from outside that a light was on and maybe a curtain round Dick’s bed. Excitedly Dick offered his help whatever the time of day or night but Adam grinned, “If you’re anything like my kid brothers at your age it would need an earthquake to wake you.”

 

Dick blushed fiercely, he had trouble waking up even at his normal time and Adam went on, “Just nature’s way of saying that you need your sleep. I’m lucky I’ve never needed much.” Dick promised to get what was required and equip the room with plenty of paper and ink etc. Adam gave him a hundred dollars to cover it and then slipped out promising to come back the following night to collect a key. It was as easy to get away as it had been to get there, no windows overlooking the dark alleys Adam chose as he headed back to the main street, concealed by a raucous gang of miners celebrating the end of shift.

 

Adam headed over to the Palace for a couple of hours, forcing himself to be sociable and have a drink even though he didn’t want it. He made a couple of veiled references to his dinner the following night and both Dan and Philip Deidersheimer who knew him so well looked more than a little puzzled. When Adam finally stood up to go acting as though he begrudged it and making a snide comment about fussing wives, Philip swiftly drank his beer and went out with his friend.

 

Adam tried to ignore him knowing exactly how Philip felt but the rather sedate German engineer wasn’t about to be denied, “What is wrong Adam? You are not acting like yourself. A lovely wife and family yet you come, drink, gamble night after night.”

 

Adam studied him apparently indifferent, “That’s my business Philip.”

 

“We are friends a long time. If something is wrong I would help, with many others, not the first time.”

 

“Nothing’s wrong.”

 

“Then why you make a fool of yourself?”

 

“Because we are friends I have listened but you go too far. I am not answerable to you or anyone else for my actions.” Adam let anger sound clearly in his voice and with a final

 

“Goodnight.” He strode out down the street, quickly out distancing the rather short and podgy German.

 

Adam collected Blackie and let him find his own way home with a lot to think about. He just hoped that when this was all over he could pick up the pieces and make his peace with all the friends he was snubbing now. Carole was still up when he came in and Adam went straight over to her burying his face in her hair and holding her very close. She could feel the tension in him and didn’t attempt to talk until Adam had relaxed. Adam got himself coffee and then led the way up to bed. He lit the lamp in the spare room and rumpled the bed before retreating to bed with Carole.

 

An hour later coffee forgotten, relaxed with Carole in his arms after making love, Adam had things back in perspective. Quietly he told Carole exactly what he had been doing and that he would be having dinner with a French beauty the following evening. At this stage just a meal but the gossip would start in earnest. Carole held him very close as she tried again to explain that it really wouldn’t hurt her, she knew Adam was hers and outsiders opinions based on a fallacy really didn’t matter. Adam was very grateful for her strength but not entirely sure that she wasn’t fooling herself.

Carole had one piece of news for him, with Hoss helping his brother everything had been finished up much more swiftly and the brothers were heading home in the morning, a day early.  Nita and Sue had spent the afternoon with Carole although she had largely left them to deal with the six children while she cleared some of the paperwork, ordering supplies of equipment which Adam had had to leave for her. Carole was sure that Nita in particular had only managed to refrain from comment on Adam’s behaviour because her husband was coming back the next day and she thought Joe would make a better job of talking to his brother, finding out what was going on.

 

Adam wasn’t particularly pleased to find that his brothers would be home just as he made the first move to take the bait but they’d been due back on Friday anyway and he would have to face them. Carole was just glad that he didn’t tense up again and slowly they settled to sleep.

Joe had been very glad of his brother’s help, somehow with two of them working together and able to talk things out, insurmountable problems were solved and everything became much easier. Hoss was glad to see his little brother less worried about the work but was all too aware that Joe was still worried about his family. Hoss had tried to sense anything but as he’d told Joe it didn’t just come on demand.

 

Eventually all the preliminary planning and marking up were complete and Hoss was able to telegraph home that they would return a day early. On Wednesday the brothers worked late completing all the packing and tidying up so that they could get an early start the next day. They were both very eager to get home and see their wives and young sons. They knew from their nephews and nieces just how much babies changed in a short time during the first months of life.

 

Even Joe managed to put all worries about his family to the back of his mind and rode home just eager to see Nita and his son. It was a long ride back from the west shore and even with good road now they still weren’t expected until the late afternoon.

 

Adam had spent the day at the main house completing the legal answer on the mines. The result would win them the case, of that he was sure, but it could have been done by any of the legal hacks in town and certainly didn’t bear the earmarks of hid normal concise penetrating legal brain. Adam was sure that fact wouldn’t escape his father or his little brother and had no doubt it would be picked up by Sharon and other lawyers in town. Word would spread that he wasn’t at his incisive best which was exactly what Hearst and the others wanted.

 

Ben had left his son very much alone, not wanting another row. He didn’t like this feeling of having to watch every word he said to his eldest son but hoped that Adam would get over whatever was troubling him and that it might be a case of least said soonest mended. Ben could foresee all too easily that if Adam’s mood didn’t improve there were likely to be ructions once his brothers got home. Joe for one would not take the sort of treatment Adam had been meting out, without flaring up.

 

About 4 p.m. Adam packed his things up and much to Ben’s relief he said “I’d better get home.”

 

Adam could read his father very clearly and he went on “I need to change; I’ve got an appointment in town.” Ben looked away knowing any questions would only lead to the row he’d been trying to avoid. Adam was equally eager to avoid trouble and he swiftly gathered his things. Ben said, “With Hoss and Joe back today all four of us had better get together tomorrow, check over the plans for the summer.”

 

“Alright.”

 

“Will you tell your brothers?”

 

“I need to get to town, they may not be back, use the telegraph.”

 

Ben bit back his arguments, normally Adam would pop in to see his sisters with his brothers away and he could leave a message but if Adam was avoiding them Ben wasn’t forcing it.

 

“Okay I’ll tell them, say 8 o’clock here.”

 

“Make it 9, I may be very late back.” Adam turned and walked out. Ben watched him go seeing the tension that Adam couldn’t hide; wishing that he could work out just what was eating his eldest son.

 

Adam went straight home, not even acknowledging Sue and Nita who were standing outside Nita’s house with their babies watching for the brothers’ return. They watched Adam ride past without so much as a wave and Nita, furious, said “What is the matter with him?”

 

“At least he’s home early for once. Maybe spend some time with Carole and the kids.”

 

“I hope Joe or Hoss can get him to talk, this just isn’t like him. Carole won’t say anything she just clams up.”

 

“I guess it’s not really our business Nita, they’ll sort it out eventually, mean far too much to each other not to do so.”

 

Nita shrugged she had believed that too and was sure on Carole’s side at least it was still true but she couldn’t understand Adam, and just wondered if she had read him wrong. She was very eager to see Joe for many reasons, but at least partially because he might be able to sort Adam out, she had grown very fond of both Adam and Carole.

 

Adam hadn’t missed the girls and it took all his will power not to acknowledge them at all, not to go over and see his nephews. He rode in and loosely tied Blackie before going in. Carole knew exactly what he was planning on doing and had laid out evening clothes for him. She knew he would only be able to stay a few minutes and with everything ready he was able to spend quarter of an hour with his children.

 

Adam relaxed for a few minutes cuddling Anne and playing with the twins and Marie. The one part of all this play acting which really worried him was the effect it might have on the children. Luckily they were used to him being away and hopefully wouldn’t pick up on the tensions between the adults. He knew he could rely on his family to protect the kids.

 

Carole went upstairs with him as he eventually pulled away from the children. Adam pulled her close tilting her face up to him, “With this dinner tonight and Joe and Hoss back it will start in earnest.”

 

“I know my love. It’s still not too late, tell them.”

 

“We’ve been all through that. The only question is do you want me to?”

 

“For your sake I do. Its hard now and it will get far worse.” Carole forced a smile for

him. “But how do we live with the death or injury of one of the children or Sue or Nita?”

“Or you my darling.”

 

Carole kissed him, “We go on as planned.”

 

Adam nodded “Just a few weeks my love, my one and only love.”

 

Carole kissed him again, “Get changed darling and go see the French woman.” Adam swiftly shaved and changed and managed to hide his feeling and smile freely, “We’ll cope my sweet, a few precious hours together and we can manage.”

 

Adam looked very smart as he went downstairs, a black well cut suit with a white lacy fronted shirt and black tie, even his hat was black. He kissed the children good night before heading out.

 

In the event he timed his departure well and he was just riding out as his brothers rode in. They saw Adam as he turned onto the main road riding away from them but very obviously smarter than usual, all dressed up. Adam had in fact seen them but he didn’t acknowledge it turning away and kicking Blackie into a lope to get away.

 

Hoss and Joe assumed he hadn’t seen them or he would have stopped for a brief chat having not seen them for several weeks. They knew of no reason for him to be avoiding them. For now the attractions of wives and children far outweighed any curiosity about their brother they could catch up the following day. As they turned the corner and saw Sue and Nita with the babies everything else was forgotten and they galloped over.

 

Both brothers hugged their wives and took the babies to look at. Almost simultaneously they exclaimed how much Adam and Johnny had changed and then separated to go inside and catch up on the last weeks. Hoss was the first to break away and go to see to Chub, left standing at the rail, seeing Cochise there too he dealt with the pinto for his little brother, before returning to Sue. She was feeding Johnny when Hoss went back in and he stood staring at them for a minute at peace with the world and so proud of his wife and child.

Sue recognized the look and smiled up at the big man before calling to Kam Ling to bring in dinner. At first Hoss was only interested in her and the baby and Sue told him all the new things Johnny could now do. Hoss was content to eat one handed, holding his son with the other arm. At five months Johnny was beginning to experiment with the sounds that he could make and was eager to pick up anything within reach and always put it in his mouth first. Hoss laughed as the little boy picked up a spoon and banged on the table. Once satisfied about the baby Hoss enquired what Sue had been doing.

 

Joe was doing much the same but he was less interested in food and sat back very content with both Nita and Adam on his lap. The baby was happy playing wit his father’s hair while Nita filled him in on exactly what she’d been doing.

 

It was much later before Joe, with a sudden twinge of conscience, remembered that he hadn’t seen to Cochise. He hurried out and finding Cochise eating his head off in the barn, he grinned and made a mental note to thank Hoss in the morning. As he went back in, thinking about one brother reminded him of the other and his first question was “Where was Adam going all dressed up?”

 

Nita hadn’t been ready for that yet and the look of horror on her face brought back all the fears Joe had known over the last weeks. He went over to her and took her hand, “What’s going on? I knew something was wrong.”

 

“I don’t know darling.”

 

“But something is?”

 

“Yes. I was hoping that once you came home you could find out what. Adam isn’t acting like himself at all.”

 

“In what way?”

 

“He’s hardly ever home, leaving far too much to your father and Carole. He’s drinking a lot and he’s irritable.”

 

“What!” Joe exclaimed in disbelief.

 

“I said he was acting out of character. We think there’s something wrong between him and Carole.”

 

“I can’t believe that, they’re so ideally suited.”

 

“Well maybe you can come up with some other explanation. Carole has pulled back into her shell, she isn’t saying anything.”

 

“Who are we?”

 

“Sue and I. We haven’t talked to Pa but he’s looking worried.”

 

“How long has this been going on?”

 

“Started just after you left, last two weeks he’s been rolling home drunk at 2 or 3 in the morning. Been to town most nights and when he does work its over at the main house as though he doesn’t want to be at home.”

 

Joe got up and went to get a brandy, whatever he’d imagined had been nothing close to this.

Nita went over to join him at the window and put her arms round him, “You said you knew something was wrong, how?”

 

Joe stared out at the mountains, “All my life Adam’s been there, I can reach out feel his presence. I think unconsciously I’ve always done it for reassurance that nothing is wrong in my world. This last couple of weeks I reach out and there’s nothing there. Does that make any sense?”

 

Nita held him tighter; she had learnt over the past years just how close her husband was to his brothers and family. “It makes sense my love.”

 

“Maybe I should go and see Pa.”

 

“You won’t sleep until you do and on current form Adam won’t be home until the early hours, if then.” Joe pulled her very close, he had been looking forward to seeing his wife and child but he knew she was right, unless he could sort this out or at the very least find out what was going on he’d never sleep. “I’ll go and get Hoss and we’ll both go. I won’t be very long.”

When Joe walked in he could see from the shock on Hoss’ face that Sue had been filling him in too. Joe forced a smile for Sue, “Sorry to interrupt. I’m going to have a quick word with Pa, wondered if Hoss wanted to come along.”

 

Hoss looked over at his redhead and Sue smiled, “That sounds a good idea Joe, talk it out between you and maybe you’ll both get some sleep.”

 

“Sorry to take him away so soon but we won’t be long.”

 

Sue passed Hoss his coat, hat and gun, “Go on darling go with Joe and I’ll settle Johnny down.”

 

Hoss walked out and needing time to talk, get their thoughts in order, the brothers opted to walk over to the main house. At first they walked in silence and then Hoss said, “It don’t make sense, Sue says he’s drinking and bad tempered, not doing his share. That sure don’t sound like Adam.”

 

“Nita was suggesting trouble between him and Carole.”

 

“So did Sue, I don’t believe it.”

 

“Maybe Pa knows what’s going on.” With the house in sight the brothers quickened their pace and hurried over. Ben was working at the desk but stood up as he heard the door. He wasn’t particularly surprised to see his sons and the expressions on their faces made their errand abundantly clear. Ben called to Hop Sing to bring coffee and got the decanter and three glasses. “Come and sit down you two.”

 

Hoss and Joe settled staring into the fire. Ben poured brandy and the Hop Sing hurried in with coffee, he was pleased to see the brothers and they both roused themselves to chat with the old cook, too fond of him to hurt his feelings however they felt. It was ten minutes before he bustled back to the kitchen and Joe turned to his father, “Pa do you know what’s wrong with Adam?”

 

“No but he’s being curt and irritable even with Hop Sing.”

 

Hoss frowned “Sue says he’s drinking too much?”

 

“Far too much and playing poker with professional gamblers, starting fights.” Ben sighed,

 

“Roy has been complaining.”

 

“Pa that’s nonsense!” Joe protested.

 

“I wish it was Joe. It started soon after you two left. First off he was working over here, complaining that Carole couldn’t keep the kids quiet. Then he disappeared for three or four days. I tried to talk to him and to Carole but she just clams up and Adam loses his temper. He’s been in town virtually every night, drinking heavily and playing poker. He’s snubbed Dan and Philip as well as Roy and God knows who else.”

 

The brothers stared into the fire trying to make sense of what Ben was saying. Hoss drained his brandy and poured another, “Pa, Adam don’t do things that don’t make sense. There’s gotta be a reason.”

Joe added, “He’s always loved having the kids around, he can work under any circumstances any amount of noise.”

 

“I thought that too Joe. He said he’d forgotten what it was like to have some peace and quiet until he was injured.”

 

“No I don’t believe it.”

 

Ben got to his feet and went over to the window, his back to his sons, “He said that he was sick to death of this family, never there when they could be useful and always wanting carried, legally financially and in fighting.”

 

Hoss looked totally stunned but Joe was on his feet and forced his father to face him, “Adam said that?”

 

“Yes Joseph, I don’t know just how deeply that ordeal went. Those long days badly injured and having to look after himself.”

 

Joe turned away thoroughly confused and Hoss shook his head, “Pa it’s hardly the first time Adam’s been hurt, even away from home. Sure it was hellish but Adam he’d put it behind him.”

 

“I thought that too son but something is eating him. Just once he came down to normal told me not to worry, that it was between him and Carole and that I should trust them to work it out. Maybe we have to do just that.”

 

Neither of his sons could give up that easily but other than more details of exactly how their brother’s behaviour was strange, Ben really couldn’t help and eventually they fell quiet. Ben poured fresh coffee and then mildly suggested that they stop worrying about Adam who had proved very capable over the years of working things out for himself. Ben forced a smile and suggested his younger sons went home to their wives who had been missing them.

 

Hoss and Joe accepted that and set off home, basically in silence, both trying to do the impossible and tie up the facts they had been given with the brother they knew so well. It was impossible to disbelieve their father, maybe the girls were exaggerating but Ben wouldn’t. Both brothers were eager to talk to Adam himself but in his absence they could only go home to their wives and try to put worry about their brother to the back of their minds.

 

In town Adam had left Blackie in the stable and then headed down to the Washoe Club for a drink and a chance to wash and brush up. With most of the dust of the journey removed Adam went over to the International Hotel. He had bought an orchid for Suzanne and before going up to her room Adam arranged for a meal to be served in one of the four booths of the main dining room. The booths were not as private as the separate dining rooms but with the facility to curtain off the booth they offered some privacy. Adam knew very well that as soon as he’d booked the booth, news that he was dining with a woman would very quickly spread around town. It was what he wanted and he had no intention of drawing the curtains, he didn’t need privacy yet. Adam decided to order in advance and with the International famous for its French cuisine he ordered a meal designed to impress a Parisienné.

Adam headed up to her suite at exactly seven and was rather surprised to see Suzanne ready and waiting for him. She was wearing a very French low cut evening gown and Adam smiled appreciatively. He bowed over her hand and kissed it before presenting the light lilac orchid which luckily went well with the pale green gown. Adam pinned the orchid in place for her and then escorted her downstairs for dinner. Hearst wasn’t taking any chances and had arranged for Dan to come over for an interview with Maynard about new developments at the Belcher. Dan was in the foyer waiting for Maynard to come down and he was taken aback as Adam walked down with an elegant stranger on his arm. Adam didn’t want to talk to Dan and did his best to ignore him but Dan came over and without being down right rude Adam couldn’t do anything but stop. Adam introduced Dan to Suzanne Fauré and he claimed that they had a mutual love of Paris so the least he could do was show her a little of Virginia City. Dan was puzzled he had assumed that Adam knew the lady or at least had mutual friends, it was most unlike Adam to entertain a lady without Carole present. Suzanne said very little but Dan had summed her up anyway and as he excused himself hoping they enjoyed their meal, he couldn’t help wondering just what Adam saw in a high class French whore.

 

Adam led her into the dining room where the Maitre d’Hotel hurried over to escort them to their table. The wine was ready chilled for them and the hors d’oeuvre in place. Adam was glad that she seemed prepared to stick with English as a medium of conversation, just occasionally dropping into French when she couldn’t remember a word. Her accent and the odd French phrase were attractive and Adam relaxed and tried to enjoy himself. Their conversation was mainly light, memories of Paris and France in general, a little of music and plays but Adam was rapidly coming to the conclusion that while she had been well taught she wasn’t actually very intelligent.

 

The curtains of the booth remained open as the waiters brought the steady stream of dishes that Adam had ordered. The food was good, the wine superb but Adam was all too aware of just how much notice he was causing amongst the other diners in the hotel. Noone looking at him would have guessed how aware he was of the comment he was causing, he was apparently totally relaxed, enjoying a lovely lady’s company. Suzanne felt she had all his attention and neither of them hurried over the meal. It was gone ten before they sat back with coffee. Suzanne had tried dropping hints about a desire to see some of the surrounding country but so far Adam hadn’t taken her up on it and she didn’t like to push. She had been warned just how clever this man was and even if she hadn’t been, her business was men and although Adam was interested he was a long way from being hooked.

 

Eventually Adam suggested it was time to let the waiters clear and he escorted her back up to her room. Suzanne invited him in for a nightcap and Adam accepted. He sipped an excellent brandy and continued to chat and although Suzanne had settled on the sofa next to him, he made no real attempt to touch her and she edged a little closer. Adam knew exactly what that meant but he wasn’t prepared to make that sort of move yet and he glanced at his watch. “I suppose I must make a move soon, head home. My wife will be waiting.”

 

She laughed, a little trilling laugh, “I can’t see you as a hen-pecked husband.”

 

“Not really but she has a slight tendency to fuss if I’m very late, leave her with four young kids.”

 

“She doesn’t understand you?”

 

“I didn’t say that, in many ways she understands me all too well!” Adam stood up firmly,

 

“It’s been a very pleasant evening Suzanne. Thank you for your company. We must do it again.” He went to kiss her hand but she took the initiative and momentarily she pressed her body against him and kissed his lips, “Au revoir Adam, I’m glad Virginia City has such a man.”

Adam smiled at her, “I’ll be seeing you Suzanne.” He had spent over an hour in her room and reckoning that was enough for the gossips for one day he collected Blackie and headed home. He had plenty to think about but after one evening spent in Suzanne’s company he had almost made up his mind to go with the Englishwoman. He couldn’t believe that anyone would accept that he was totally enamoured by the rather empty headed Frenchwoman. He didn’t want to close any doors until he’d met the other one and in many ways Suzanne’s lack of empathy would be a help. For now Adam tried to relax wanting to get some sleep before he had to face his brothers. He cut up over the back trail instead of passing his brothers’ houses and perhaps get caught for a long talk. Making it home just after midnight he saw to Blackie before going in.

 

Carole was waiting for him and she smiled at the expression on his face, “Well you smell of French perfume but you look as though it was hard work!”

 

“Good job I’m not really trying to deceive you.” Adam said lightly before pulling her close. He took her up to bed, checked on the children and went in to join her filling her in on the events of the evening. Carole felt him slowly relax and as he cuddled her, his even breathing testified that he was asleep. Carole barely liked to admit even to herself that she was relieved just how little Adam was attracted by the expensive French whore. Adam was more tired than he liked to think and when Carole awoke the next morning he was still sound asleep.

 

Carole slipped out, ruffled up the spare bed and quickly collected all the children and got them downstairs before they disturbed Daddy.

 

In fact it was nearly 8 a.m. before Adam finally awoke and he was feeling very heavy headed much worse than if he’d been short of sleep. Still he consoled himself he would feel the benefit later and at least it would give the impression he wanted for his brothers, if he looked the way he felt. Carole got him coffee as he came down, an all too obvious headache, and she stopped the children worrying him.

 

Ben had told his sons about the arrangements for the morning and both Joe and Hoss were over early, soon after eight. After a night to think about it both brothers had further questions, neither had slept much despite having their wives next to them. Joe just beat his brother over and was sitting over coffee when Hoss joined them. Despite their questions there was nothing useful that Ben could add and he could only hope that Adam wasn’t in the mood to hand out the sort of treatment he had been doing. If not Ben could foresee real trouble developing before lunch and he wasn’t looking forward to it. Ben tried reminding his younger sons that the meeting was to plan the rest of the summer’s work and they should not start cross-questioning their brother, that would only lead to rows. Both of them promised to let Adam alone at least initially and the three men were sitting round the table with all the relevant documents and coffee when Adam finally appeared at quarter past nine.

 

Adam was all too aware that both his brothers would have been told about his erratic behaviour by their wives and he had deliberately allowed them time to confirm the facts with Ben. He was on edge, not enjoying the prospect of facing them and with a severe headache, the tension all too obvious as he walked in. Adam barely acknowledged his brothers return as he took off his coat, hat and gun. Ben sighed inwardly as Adam poured himself a brandy and downed it before refilling his glass and then coming over to take up his position at the table. Adam met his father’s eye almost defiantly before settling to read Ben’s preliminary plan. Adam found it hard to concentrate, knowing just how many things were going to disrupt the summer and all too aware how intently both his brothers were studying him.

Ben tried to ease the tension, sending Joe to fetch fresh coffee and passing some papers to Hoss. Then he very firmly turned the discussion to work. For the next two hours the four made their plans for the summer deciding who would handle what and where the main priorities were. Adam left most of it to his family and only occasionally entered the discussion at all. It was unusual enough for his family to be conscious of his seeming remoteness, but Ben kept the lid on, glaring at Joe when he ventured a comment. Adam wasn’t even aware of Joe’s comment as he weighed up the probable reaction if he ducked one of the jobs Ben had allocated to him, that of extending flume on the west shore. Adam knew it was his job but he equally knew that he wasn’t going to have time to do it, at least not until late in the summer. Eventually he straightened his shoulders and downed his brandy, for once wanting it, “Pa, that flume. We don’t need it for this year’s contracts.”

 

“No but we’re not that pushed and we will need it if we take on comparable contracts next year.”

 

“I think we should leave it.”

 

“Why?” asked Joe quickly, “You aren’t that pushed with what Pa’s allocated you, even with the flume.”

 

“That’s a matter of opinion, you aren’t allowing for the multitude of problems that come from the mines or the Bank.”

 

“You’ve been much busier often in the past.”

 

“Maybe that’s the trouble Joe, whatever needs doing good old Adam will do it. Hell he barely needs any sleep, let alone the odd hour to himself.” Adam got up at that and went to pour another brandy as the bitterness in his voice hung in the air. Joe was about to speak up but Hoss put his hand on Joe’s arm to stop him and Ben said very quietly, “Easy Joe let’s keep this within the realms of discussion.”

 

Adam sipped his brandy and ignoring his brothers he spoke direct to his father, “At least plan it in for the end of July, not so early. I need some time just now.”

 

“Why?” asked Joe, “If something is wrong why won’t you tell us, let us help. Talk it out like always.”

 

Adam ignored him, “Please Pa.”

 

Ben shrugged, “I suppose we could if it would really help.”

 

Adam didn’t say anything but Ben could see how much it meant to his son and he began making the appropriate changes. Joe couldn’t contain himself any longer, “For God’s sake Adam what is wrong? I’ve never known you drink so much this early in the day, complaining about work like this. Why do you need time?”

 

Adam got to his feet, anger clear on his face, “That’s the problem Joe. I can’t move without the family wanting to know the ins and outs. I have a right to my own private life too, nothing to do with you. I do my share and more round here.”

 

Hoss spoke up for the first time, “Noone denies that brother just that if something is worrying you we would like to help.”

 

Adam didn’t deign to answer him, “Pa is there anything else urgent?”

 

“No, not really.”

 

“I’ll be off then; I have a meeting in town.” Adam suited the action to the word and collecting his things headed out, leaving his brothers more than a little shaken. It was one thing to hear about Adam’s strange behaviour from their wives or even their father but it was much harder to see for themselves.

 

Ben wordlessly poured them both a drink, “Take it easy boys, he’ll come down to normal.”

 

“But why Pa? What’s wrong?” Joe asked almost desperately, however his father could only shake his head, he had no more idea than his sons. Joe couldn’t settle and he stood up, “If you don’t need me for a while I’m going to see Carole.”

 

Ben didn’t think his son would get anything out of Carole but he could understand Joe’s need to try. “Come back for lunch and we’ll sort out some of the details.”

 

Joe walked Cochise to Adam’s house, needing time to think but he couldn’t make any sense of it or think how to approach Carole and anyway as he let himself in the twins and Marie launched themselves at him. It took fully quarter of an hour before he could placate the children and then Carole offered coffee. Joe accepted and asked her to join him in the study. Carole had known as soon as Joe arrived exactly what her brother-in-law wanted but she knew that he was far too persistent to go away without having his say. She led the way in and stood staring at the painting of the lake which meant so much to both her and Adam.

Joe put his arm round her shoulders, “Carole what is wrong with Adam, you must know?”

 

Carole pulled away “Why do you think there’s anything wrong?”

 

“He’s drinking far too much seems almost bitter, just not himself. You must know that. I want to help but I can’t unless I know why.”

 

“You can’t help Joe. This is something we have to work out for ourselves. If you do want to help then just leave Adam alone.” Carole turned and gripped Joe’s hands, “Please Joe just let us be.”

 

Joe wasn’t proof against her plea and he slowly nodded, “I’ll try Carole but if I can do anything for you, or Adam, please ask.”

 

“I promise. Try not to worry, we will sort it out.”

 

Joe could only accept her request and he kissed her before returning to the main house. It was very obvious to both Ben and Hoss that Joe hadn’t got anywhere. He confirmed it, “At first she said there was nothing wrong, then admitted it but said she and Adam would work it out and all we could do to help was to leave him alone.”

 

Ben put his arm round his son’s shoulders, the despondency so obvious, “Easy Joseph. They will work it out; they love each other too much not to.”

 

“Pa I can’t settle to detailed planning, would you mind if I went into town.”

 

“If your brother finds out you’ve been checking up on him he’ll become even more unbearable.” Ben warned.

 

“I know that, I’ll be careful but I do want to have a word with Dan and Roy. See what has been going on for myself.”

 

“You won’t like what you hear.”

 

“Maybe but don’t you see Pa I have to hear for myself.” Joe stared intently at his father and Ben nodded slowly, “Alright Joseph but keep a tight rein on yourself, we must try not to make matters worse.”

 

“I’ll be careful Pa.”

 

Hoss got to his feet. “I’m going too Pa. Joe’s right we have to know what’s being said. Adam’s our brother.” Ben could only accept his sons’ need and hope that they would keep control.

 

The brothers headed straight for town with all too much to think about. If possible they wanted to avoid Adam and from what Ben had said he was more likely to be down at the Bucket O’Blood so they left their horses in the stable and headed for the Palace. Joe checked quietly but there was no sign of Adam so they went in to join Dan at his usual place. Dan was pleased to see them but a little wary, guessing why they were there. He didn’t want to be the one to tell them that their brother was dining out with another woman.

 

At first the talk was general as Dan filled them in on the news around town since their last visit but after a while he was obviously forcing the conversation and Joe smiled gently,

 

“Alright Dan, unless you have some news on the local rabbits giving birth, its time to get down to basics. What do you know about Adam and what’s being said?”

 

Dan hesitated and Joe lent forward, “Look we know some of what’s going on but we’ve been over on the west shore. We need to know and you’re our friend Dan, please help.”

Dan went and got three more beers to give himself a chance to think but he knew the brothers too well to believe that he could get away without talking. Over the beer Dan did as he was asked and told them just how much time Adam had spent in town recently and the change in his habits, both where he did his drinking and the amount. He told them of the fight after the long running poker game and then he broke off. It was very obvious to both Hoss and Joe that there was something more and Hoss pressed, “Come on Dan lets have the rest.”

 

“I met your brother last night at the International.”

 

“So?” Joe asked puzzled and Dan went on, “He was escorting a very lovely Frenchwoman to dinner.”

 

That was totally unexpected by both brothers and for a minute they couldn’t think what to say, eventually Hoss asked “Have you seen them together before?”

He stared into his beer as he asked, not daring to catch Dan’s eye. Dan quickly denied it, “Adam introduced her as a stranger, a visitor to Virginia City with a mutual acquaintance, a love of Paris. Maybe he was just being polite.”

 

Joe looked up at that, “He’s picked a hell of a time for it and from all accounts if he’s being polite to her, she’s a minority of one.”

 

Hoss frowned at his little brother and then asked “”You seen much of him Dan?”

“A little, got firmly told to mind my own business or he might forget we are friends.”

 

Joe forced a grin, “Well at least that sounds like Adam. Don’t judge him too harshly Dan; he’ll sort things out come back to normal.”

 

“I know that Joe. Adam is still my friend.”

 

“Thanks Dan,” Hoss said and then the brothers headed down to the jail for a word with Roy. Roy could only confirm with a few more details what they had already been told. Roy also told them how he’d spoken to Adam with no effect and that he’d then spoken to their father. He tried to persuade them to speak to their brother before Adam got into real trouble. Neither of them enjoyed hearing Roy’s criticism even though he phrased it as diplomatically as he could. As they came out of the jail Joe suggested going over to the Bucket O’Blood, at least check and see if Adam was there and if not have a word with Don McBride. Hoss refused, it was one thing letting real friends like Roy and Dan know that they were checking up on their brother but Don hardly came into that category and anyway they had promised their father not to let Adam know they had followed him into town. Joe hadn’t enjoyed the last hour one bit more than Hoss and he gave way, content to return home, needing time to think to try and make sense of this behaviour from the older brother he’d always near idolized.

 

In fact if they had gone to the saloon they wouldn’t have found Adam. He had collected a basket of fruit, a fine bottle of wine and some flowers and was busy assembling a thank you tribute to be delivered to Suzanne. He had borrowed the small sitting room off the lobby at the hotel knowing that word of his activities would spread. However he didn’t want to give her too much encouragement until he’d met the other candidate and once he had  arranged for its delivery, he collected Blackie and rode down to Carson City.

 

Word had been passing round the area for the last couple of weeks of a high stake poker game in Carson and it fitted Adam’s plan very well. Tomorrow he should, according to his father’s plan, be going up to their own mine to check the shoring and confirm the direction of work for the next few weeks, planning in all relevant shoring so Jack could be told at the mill. Instead Adam intended joining the high profile poker game, which even though it was in Carson would soon be well known in Virginia City. Then he would use the mine job as an excuse to duck Marie’s birthday party as Carole had suggested. He had collected enough cash from the bank to buy into the game and had no doubts that his reputation would be sufficient passport into the most exclusive game.

 

Adam was glad of the ride to get his thoughts straight. He hadn’t expected to enjoy his brothers’ reaction but it had come harder than he expected and he knew this was only the start. Over the years he had become used to his brothers’ respect, even hero-worship when they were young. He wasn’t used to this disapproval of his every action and although for now there was concern in their eyes rather than the near contempt he’d seen in Roy’s, he knew that would come. Adam forced himself to relax, he had made his decision with full knowledge of what it would mean over the next weeks and he had no intention of changing his mind. He knew that he had to cut himself off from this contempt, just remember it was aimed at a mirage. Slowly he did relax remembering the total support Carole was giving him and he was determined to enjoy the poker even if his reasons for being there were very serious.

 

The game was taking place in the Crystal saloon, just opposite the Mint on the main street of Carson. At first Adam was content to sit and watch, sizing up the opposition, trying to find their ‘tells’ and checking just what sort of money was changing hands. However his presence was quickly noted and although he didn’t know many people present, he was well known. Adam passed word to the bartender that he would be interested in sitting in and half an hour later as food was brought to the table, the dealer came over to Adam. The man Vickers invited Adam to join them, firstly in the food and then in the game and Adam moved over to take his seat. As he did so he was aware of the buzz going through the crowd and was sure that word would be back in Virginia City before daylight.

 

Adam was introduced to the other four players, Bains, North, Nelson and Dawes. For a few minutes the men were more interested in the food and wine but within twenty minutes with brandy or whisky for all who wanted, Vickers was ready to deal. Adam had watched the play very carefully and was already aware that Vickers and Dawes  were by far the strongest players. The other three, while by no means negligible, all had weaknesses. North tended to bluff too often and not very convincingly, always fidgeting with his cards when he did so, Bains overbet, while Nelson was a little timid. However each man was playing his own hand and that suited Adam fine. He settled down to concentrate hard knowing that it was going to need all his skill to remain on even terms with these professionals. At first the luck seemed a little against him but as the night wore on it swayed round and he collected several sizeable pots. By the time they had a break for breakfast Adam was nearly ten thousand dollars to the good. It was a good thing he had intended to carry on playing as the rest made it very clear that they wanted their chance of revenge. Adam sat back with coffee and biscuits, he was thoughtful. He knew that he’d been lucky but that couldn’t last, still he was quite happy to lose all he’d won and more, the money didn’t really matter, so he slowly relaxed, he had nothing to lose.

 

During the course of the morning he held his own but slowly Vickers seemed to gain the luck and as the afternoon wore on, rather to Adam’s relief Vickers was began to win heavily. By nightfall only Vickers Dawes and Adam were left, the others all withdrawn. Adam was still a marginal winner but Vickers was the big winner. The luck and success swayed one way and then the other with all three men taking large pots and losing others. The size of bets edged up as Adam tried to bring the game to a natural conclusion. It had fulfilled its purpose and now he wanted to get home but in keeping with the character he had been creating he couldn’t just get up and leave.

 

It was just after eleven when Adam drew one card and filled a Royal Flush. It was very obvious that both the others had good hands too and Adam was guessing Dawes had a full house with Vickers probably a flush. Slowly everyone in the saloon fell quiet as the bets got higher until more than $25 000 was on the table. Dawes dropped out as Adam raised $5000 and Vickers hesitated but he raised another $2000. Adam checked his cards once more, ace. King Queen Jack and ten of spades and then he raised once more. It took just about all the cash he had with him but he was confident that he could cash a cheque if he needed to. He had judged correctly and a flicker of concern or maybe annoyance showed momentarily in Vickers’ eyes before he called. Adam laid down his hand card by card. Well aware that everyone was watching and as he put the third card down he knew he’d won. Noone else was sure as Vickers sat looking at his cards a half smile flickering on his lips. Then with a flourish he put his cards down king to nine of hearts. He rose to his feet, “The Gods are with you this time Adam Cartwright. One day maybe you will give me a chance for revenge.” Adam stood with a half bow and then slowly collected the money, nearly $48000. He pushed about $150 over the bar and ordered drinks for the assembled company. For half an hour he accepted the congratulations of the crowd and the drinks that he was given but eventually he slipped away. Since he was carrying so much cash Adam took a long way round to get home and it was nearly 3 a.m. before he reached it. Even so Carole was awake and waiting for him. Adam pulled her close, “Darling I’m sorry I’m drunk.”

 

Carole kissed him, “Exhausted more like. Come my love bed, now.”

“What have you planned for Marie tomorrow?”

 

“Today my sweet. Everyone is invited round for two o’clock for a birthday tea. Joe has been round three times today, looking for you. He’s just about climbing the walls. Sooner or later you’ll have to talk to him.”

 

“I know but the more cross he is the less clearly he’ll be thinking and the easier I’ll find it to engineer a row.” Adam finished undressing and stood staring out of the window. Very sombrely he commented “Not that it will be difficult after tomorrow.”

 

Carole put her arms round him and kissed him, “Bed.”

 

She knew that it would be hard for Adam to leave his young daughter on her birthday. She had known that when she suggested it. Talk couldn’t help and she held him close, calming him in the only way she knew how until he fell asleep in her arms.

 

Despite his late night Adam was awake soon after seven, on his own as Anne had woken her mother an hour earlier but Marie and the twins were excitedly chattering and Adam took the birthday girl downstairs with him. He had his own present for the little girl, a very pretty doll and more important to Marie, his undivided attention during the morning. With both their parents spending all their time with them the three older children thoroughly enjoyed themselves and  even Anne laughed happily as she crawled around.

 

Adam was sure that the children would not blame him for leaving, they had had more attention from him than normal but he was equally sure Carole was going to have a very difficult afternoon. Even if noone said anything and he couldn’t imagine Joe for one keeping quiet, she knew them so well she would see the hurt and worry, maybe anger.

 

On Saturday Joe was very restless wanting to talk to Adam. He had tried three times but only Carole was at home and she was no more inclined to talk than before. Joe couldn’t push her, remembering all too clearly her plea for him to leave them alone but he had to talk to his brother. Nita consoled him that he would see Adam at his daughter’s birthday party the following afternoon. Joe accepted that and slowly relaxed. He had been away for all too long and he owed Nita and their baby more of his attention.

 

Despite his best intentions Joe found his thoughts going back to his brother when in the early evening word reached the ranch, via two hands who had been collecting stores in Virginia City, that Adam was in a high stakes poker game in Carson City. Joe was curt with the hands but like a tongue probing a sore tooth he couldn’t help going over it with Hoss. Joe was very tempted to go down to Carson and see for himself  but Hoss managed to dissuade him, reminding Joe of their promise to their father not to make things worse. Even so Joe found it very hard not to brood, Adam was supposed to be checking shoring not playing poker.

By Sunday morning word was through that Adam had been a big winner, some of the hands having given into the temptation that Joe resisted. It was also clear that it had been very late when Adam left the saloon Carole had made it very clear that she wasn’t expecting people until two and knowing what a strain she was under Joe managed to resist the temptation to go over earlier and settled to work. From all accounts husband and wife had had all too little time together recently; maybe the child’s birthday would bring them back together.

 

Adam had been relying on that effect to keep his family away and shortly after 1 p.m., he kissed the children goodbye, hugged Carole wordlessly and then collecting Blackie slipped out of the valley the back way, not passing his brothers’ houses on the way to the mine.

Ben was if anything even more concerned than Joe about his eldest son’s behaviour. He had also been told by Kirk of Adam’s long poker game and large winnings. Ben couldn’t remember a time when his eldest son had accepted a job and then failed to fulfil it for trivial reasons. Admittedly the mine work and shoring wasn’t critical and Monday would do equally well but that would mean postponing other jobs. It was so unlike Adam to avoid work in pursuit of pleasure and Ben kept feeling that there had to be some explanation, but try as he would he couldn’t come up with one. Questioning Adam just seemed to lead to rows and Ben was trying very hard to wait patiently until his son saw fit to confide in him but he had never been the most patient of men and he found it hard.

 

All three Cartwrights with wives and babies arrived almost on the dot of two. It had taken each of the adults considerable will power to stay away and leave Adam and Carole in peace until then. At first in the chaos as the excited children greeted the newcomers it wasn’t too obvious that Adam wasn’t there. Carole was all too aware that that couldn’t last and seeing Ben go over and tap on the study door she joined him. “Adam’s not here Pa. He left his apologies but he had an urgent job to do, something to do with shoring at the mine which couldn’t be left.”

 

Ben was so taken aback by her statement that for a minute he couldn’t find any words. Adam could leave the shoring for a poker game but not for his daughter’s birthday! Then seeing the tension in Carole he realised the impossibility of saying anything to her, hurting her any further. This must be hard enough on Carole and Ben loved his daughter-in-law very much. As lightly as he could he said, “That’s a great pity, still Marie is so young she won’t understand.”

 

Relieved Carole offered to fetch coffee and Ben took the opportunity to call his sons over and tell them where Adam was, warning them not to upset Carole. Both Hoss and Joe were shocked but accepted their father’s advice. They couldn’t make it worse for Carole. Ben read their shock and suggested the brothers go through into the study and have a drink, calm down, before they inadvertently ruined things by letting the kids sense that something was wrong. Carole saw the brothers go through and didn’t need a second guess as to why. Luckily the exuberant children gave her a way to hide, to cover herself and to occupy Nita and Sue. She could see Ben trying to cover up but she knew him too well. Her ploy was working all too well and Ben was finding it very hard to excuse his eldest son in his own thoughts.

 

In the study Hoss poured two large brandies and the brothers stood side by side staring out of the window, grateful for the spirit. Hoss was the first to speak, “There’s gotta be a reason Joe. Adam wouldn’t leave the job for a game of poker and then go do it rather than come to his own daughter’s birthday. You know what he’s like with his kids, how much they mean to him. Maybe there’s been an accident or something.”

 

Joe shook his head and drained his glass before he spoke, “We’d know Hoss. There’s a reason alright but it’s nothing to do with the mine. Adam is avoiding us, maybe just you and me, maybe the whole family. I don’t know.” He straightened his shoulders and turned to his brother, “Equally I don’t know why but I intend to find out before I’m much older!”

For now the brothers went out and tried to keep up a party spirit for the children. The masks were sufficient to fool the kids and they made a great fuss of all the children, Marie in particular, but the twins and the three babies all got their share as the six adults tried to make up for Adam’s absence. None of them said anything directly to Carole but she was all too aware of the hurt and confusion bordering on anger that all of them felt in varying degrees at Adam’s behaviour. She was heartily grateful when it got to the children’s bedtime and refusing all offers of help to tidy up she could wish them goodbye.

Once the party broke up Joe wanted to ride up to the mine. Hoss vetoed it and managed to dissuade his brother pointing out that it they tried to force Adam to talk at the mine, the whole ranch and soon the whole area would know of the family dissension. There was enough talk already and he for one didn’t want to make it any worse. Joe accepted the sense of that but he was still determined to corner his brother and force him to talk sometime soon, preferably that night.

 

Both Sue and Nita were bursting with questions and while Ben went home the other four gathered in Joe’s study. Hoss filled the girls in on the little that they knew and then for more than an hour the four vented their feelings about Adam’s strange behaviour and speculated wildly as to the cause. They couldn’t reach any firm conclusion apart from the necessity of forcing him to talk but at least with it in the open between the four of them and talked out somewhat they were able to relax a little, In Adam’s continued absence there was obviously nothing to be done and about ten Hoss took Sue and Johnny home to bed.

 

In fact Adam had found rather more to do than he had expected at the mine. He worked

quickly and efficiently and arranged to take some of the paperwork home with him but even so it nearly 2 a.m. before he was finished. He grabbed a couple of hours of sleep but was up at half light not even waiting for coffee. He wanted to slip in and see Jess before too many people were around.

 

Adam needed to collect anything which had arrived for him but more importantly he felt it was time Jess was seen to be making a move. If Jess didn’t try to sound out Joe or Hoss on what was going on they were bound to become suspicious and the last thing he needed was for Jess to attract attention, particularly from his family. Adam pushed hard and arrived at the ranch just as Jess got up. He was riding his own rather conspicuous black stallion and so he left Blackie tied up back in the trees and slipped in on foot. Jess wasn’t particularly surprised to see him but word had spread and Jess teased him about his successful foray into poker. That reminded Adam of something he’d been meaning to do and he passed over $5000 of his winnings to Jess.

 

Jess protested but Adam overruled him, there were several contingencies where Jess might need money in a hurry to further Adam’s business. This way he had cash on hand if necessary without having to take the risk of contacting Adam personally. Put that way Jess had to give way and then he left Lisa to get Adam coffee and breakfast while he went outside to get the men started on the day’s work. Then there would be time to talk.

 

Adam was quite glad to relax with coffee and allow Lisa to fuss over him. Although he wouldn’t admit it even to himself he was feeling the strain and not sleeping too well even when he did find time to get to bed. Since Thursday he’d had very few hours sleep and he was tired. Jess knew his friend well enough to see the tiredness and he didn’t hurry over sending the hands out; sure Adam could do with a chance to relax. He did make sure that all the men were working well away from the house, promising to join his foreman later in the morning to check over the new calves. Jess watched the men ride out and then hurried inside to join his friend.

 

Adam smiled at Jess, lunging back comfortably with coffee in front of the fire. “I could get too used to this Jess. Does Liza spoil you as much as she does me?”

 

“Oh no, she works me like a slave” Jess said with a grin.

 

Adam chuckled, “You look fit on it! Anyway to business, do you have anything for me?”

“Several things so relax.” Jess went over to his desk in the corner and unlocking it pulled out three telegrams and a large packet. “I hope a couple of these make more sense to you than they do to me!”

 

The packet was from Johnny Rey and had arrived the previous day by personal messenger from Monterey. There was a covering letter and Rey made it clear that this was just the first set of papers. He’d done a rapid check of the records in Monterey and sent the most obviously relevant from Adam’s description. He wasn’t sure just how urgent the matter was and had sent the first part on ahead promising the rest in the next couple of weeks. Adam glanced through the papers quickly, sure that the wily old lawyer wouldn’t have missed anything much. Then he put the packet to one side and turned his attention to the telegrams.

The first one was straightforward, it was from Steve Fallon and said that he’d be leaving Santa Fé the next day and would pay a visit to his ‘old friend’ Jess on his way back to take up his duties in Sacramento. Jess understood that one but still wanted to know how Adam wanted to handle it. Steve Fallon was known as Adam’s friend and there was no reason why he shouldn’t meet with Adam and pass on his news personally. In fact it might look odd if they didn’t. Adam concurred with that but equally Steve had to visit Jess after the telegram and Adam wanted Jess to collect any papers Steve had with him. If possible Adam wanted a chance to read over what Steve brought before meeting his friend, then he would know just what to check with Steve. Jess promised to arrange that for Adam and then sat back as Adam read the other telegrams.

 

The second, which wasn’t signed said, “Sweet is the scene where genial friendship plays the pleasing game of interchanging praise.” It meant nothing to Jess but Adam just smiled as he read it, “Just confirmation.”

 

Jess shook his head “Well I’m glad you understand it!”

 

“It’s a quote from a poem, ‘The After Dinner Poem’ I was there when Oliver’s father wrote it, we’d had an excellent meal and indulged in a mutual admiration society.”

 

“Oliver?”

 

“Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr, he’s a justice on the Massachusetts Supreme Court, very well known lawyer, his father’s a Professor of Medicine and a poet. I got to know the son very well in Boston and John Chance went to Boston for me to get Oliver to have his clerks hunting out precedents for me and to send me all the relevant books and judgements. This is just to confirm that Oliver is on the job.”

 

Jess whistled softly, “Well I defy anyone to break that code! Here’s the third telegram, and it doesn’t make much more sense to me.” He passed it over to Adam. The telegram was just a list of names but Adam read them with every sign of relief. “Diana, Perez, Romero Diaz, OK”

 

Jess had puzzled over it for some time and he asked his friend to explain. Adam grinned, “It’s from Jamie, Hunter Diana.”

 

“What?”

 

“Diana is the goddess of the hunt. Jamie Hunter. Get it.”

 

“You taught him well.”

“Jamie would know I’d get the allusion. I told him to contact a kid we know well Ramon Perez to act as a translator and then to try and contact two men with influence in different ways in Mexico City. This confirms he’s met Ramon and contacted one of the two Romero Diaz. With their help he should have access to any relevant papers in Mexico. Jamie knows just how important it is and he when he needs to be back. I can trust him to get what I need, so everything is in good hands.”

 

Jess fetched fresh coffee, “Michelle came out for tea on Sunday. The others couldn’t get away.”

 

“Any news?”

 

“Some. She reckons that her husband is not too popular, there seems to be a feeling that the French girl hasn’t really come up to scratch, that you aren’t hooked.”

 

“What does she think they’ll do?”

 

“While not giving up on her Michelle reckons they will try their luck with the English girl, arrange a meeting in town in the next couple of days. Provided you give them the chance by going to town.”

 

Adam was delighted with that news; it would be much easier to decide which bait to take once he’d met both contenders. The only other news Michelle had brought was the pleasure with which Adam’s recent behaviour was being greeted in Hearst’s camp. So far there wasn’t a dissenting voice, everyone seemed to accept it as the natural follow-on from his three week escapade with a mistress somewhere. All it was doing was reconfirming their belief that Adam in this mood would not be the effective opponent he might otherwise have been.

 

Adam was pleased with that but as he sipped his coffee he knew that his old friend wasn’t going to like his next suggestion. “How much have you heard Jess?”

 

“A fair amount, successful poker games, drinking too much, never home, rows with Carole. About what you planned. Nobody says very much directly to me, I’m too well known as your friend. I don’t like it but it’s what we planned.”

 

“I know Jess; don’t let it get to you. But I do have a job for you that you’re not going to like.”

 

Jess looked very puzzled, “What?”

 

“Go and see my brothers, express concern and try to find out what I’m up to.”

 

Jess looked shaken, “I’m not that good an actor Adam.”

 

“I think you are and I think you have to be. If you don’t appear and ask questions how long do you think that it’s going to take Joe at least to get suspicious? Then he’ll be over here and he’ll be asking the questions.”

 

Jess had to admit the sense of that and agreed that it would be easier if he approached Joe. He promised to do so the following day. Adam relaxed with Jess’ promise and as his old friend still looked very worried he punched him lightly on the shoulder, “Easy Jess it will all be over in just a few weeks.”

Jess looked up very serious, “I don’t like what I’m hearing Adam but I know that it ain’t true, so it don’t really affect me.” He sighed heavily, “I’m not blind and I can see what it’s doing to you already and it’s gonna get far worse.”

 

Adam smiled, “I’ll survive. Just think of all the help I’ve been given. You and Carole I have always known I can rely on but think of all the others. With so much help how can I lose?”

Adam had been intending to go home but if the other girl was waiting to make her move then he needed to get into town and give her a chance. He took his time on the way to town, he was tired, very short of sleep and he wanted time to sort out his thoughts. He stopped in a small glade off the road some five miles from town and settled down to read the papers Johnny Rey had sent him. The old lawyer had done a very good job and Adam had full details of the two recognised Spanish land grants near Monterey, plus the detailed grounds on which a further four had failed to be accepted by the State of California or the Federal government. Adam read them with interest and then turned to the second letter in which Rey promised to send verbatim copies and detailed physical descriptions of all six grants plus any other relevant information he could find. So far he had checked the main record office at the Praesidio but he was working on a contact at Carmel mission and hoped to check their records in the next week. He had also heard of certain records held down the coast at the Mission of San Luis Obispo and intended riding down there once he had finished at Monterey

 

Adam was pleased with what he had already and read over the main papers again until he was sure that he had the main facts fixed in his mind. None of the land grants applied to areas away from the coast, let alone across the Sierra Nevada and Adam found it hard to believe that Hearst could substantiate his story. He got to his feet and stretched, whatever logic said he dared not take the threat lightly, all too aware of the far reaching power held by his opponents.

 

Adam rode on into town and made his first stop at the stable. Noone was around apart from Dick so Adam passed him all the papers to lock away. Dick had done exactly as he was asked and in return passed over not only the key to his room but the key to the trunk where he proposed storing the precious documents.

 

Adam wandered down to the General Store and as a cover for his presence in town handed in a list of household stores, sure that Carole would be able to make use of them even if they weren’t urgent. He left the list arranging to come back later to collect the items and then headed down to the Washoe club not wanting anyone to believe he was afraid to face them.

He looked morose and was drinking brandy despite the early hour so although he saw several people he knew noone dared to speak to him and he was left to drink in peace.

That suited Adam, he had plenty to think about but after three brandies he decided that word of his presence had had time to spread and he ought to get out and about where the second woman could make her move. She obviously couldn’t do it in the all male enclave of the Washoe Club.

 

Much to his disgust as he stepped out into the street it was obvious word had spread of his presence but all he’d caught with his bait was Jim Fair. Jim had his own opinion on just about everything and seldom listened to anyone else. No great respecter of either women or marriage he accepted the talk of a marital rift as inevitable and probably the best thing for Adam. However he had learnt years earlier to trust Adam’s ability and no rumours were going to make him change his mind. His problem at the moment was at the California, a cross vein and the threat of an encroachment suit, which could shut down the mine. Fair wanted it dealt with promptly and first and foremost he wanted Adam to come down the mine and see for himself.

Adam cursed him, he never liked going down mines at the best of times and this would inevitably delay his plans. He tried to tell Jim to leave it to the mine lawyers but Jim had long ago made up his mind who was the best lawyer and he wouldn’t settle for less. Adam got no further when he tried to explain that Jim’s description was enough, that he wouldn’t gain anything by seeing for himself, that was swept away too. Jim admitted that most lawyers or even his brothers that would be true but Adam was a good enough engineer and practical miner to know what he was looking at.

 

Adam knew from all too frequent past experience that when Jim got his mind fixed on some thing, he might as well give in. Arguing could take longer than doing what Jim wanted. He made it very clear that he was only going at Jim’s insistence and even snubbed the older man a couple of times as Jim tried to make conversation on the way to the mine, having got his own way. However Adam had to admit he might as well have saved his breath, it made no impression at all on Jim Fair. Normally Jim was far ruder to everyone than Adam was capable of being and if oblivious of other people’s feelings, his own were ironclad.

The two men walked up to the California and Jim led the way straight into the changing rooms. Adam wasn’t particularly surprised to see John Mackay there, even though his main responsibility was the Consolidated Virginia. Adam had never liked Jim, but despite business arguments over the years he was fond of John. Adam forced himself to be curt and cut off John’s enquiries about the family, demanding they get this over and done with. He turned his back on John and got changed but not before he saw the confused and hurt expression on the older man’s face.

 

Jim led the way over to the lift and the three men went down to the 1900 foot level. Adam tensed as the lift came to a stop, hating the inevitable give of the spring. For a moment he remembered all too vividly the many occasions when one or other of his brothers would insist on coming with him knowing of his claustrophobia and hatred of the mines.  For a few seconds Adam was totally oblivious of the other men and even of the mine as he prayed that the path he’d chosen to tread wouldn’t lead to any lasting rift with his brothers.

 

Then the gate was being opened and he came back to the present with a start and stepped out of the lift into the long drift with the series of crosscuts where the miners worked away in the dark and the heat. Despite the heat Adam shivered and as so often wondered how any man could choose to make his living in this close approximation to hell.

 

Fair immune to such thoughts and with familiarity of years said impatiently, “Come on, if you’re in such a hurry let’s get it over.” He led the way deep into the mine but now Adam was down the mine he wasn’t going to be hurried and exerted his right as a major stock holder to examine the various crosscuts and take samples.

 

Finally they reached the end chamber and the problem was all too apparent. The main vein the miners in the California had been following was still there, some seven foot thick at that point. However cutting through that vein at a shallow angle, so that for a few feet the two veins were almost parallel was a secondary vein, also silver bearing but of distinctive appearance. Adam took two samples from each vein and compared them with the others he had taken. The secondary vein was obviously nowhere near as rich as the main vein and far smaller.

 

Adam studied the veins carefully taking measurements and notes, marking their positions relative to each other. Then collecting all his samples he announced that he’d seen enough and wanted to get back. Jim knew from past experience that Adam wouldn’t discuss anything until he had showered and changed so, rather to Adam’s surprise, he led the way back to the lift without argument. Even in the shower Adam was left in peace until he had dressed and then John invited him back to the office to discuss what they needed to do.

Adam agreed but curtly refused all offers of refreshment, “Let’s get this over with I have things to do.”

 

Jim got out the papers involved and passed them over to Adam, who scanned them rapidly. Then he stood up putting the two samples down side by side with one of the others he’d taken. “You don’t need me to tell you. It’s a nuisance suit, not got a chance in hell. Any halfway decent lawyer can win it, that’s if they have the nerve to push it as far as court, which I doubt. You have Clinton here at the mine or Davis, both of them very competent lawyers. Use them.”

 

Jim tried again, “Adam we’d feel a lot better if you’d handle it yourself.”

 

“I’m sure you would but it’s not necessary and I am fed up with being hauled in over every tiny thing. Now if you’ll excuse me I have business in town.” Adam picked up his hat and was about to leave when John hurried over, “Hold up a minute I’ll walk back with you.”

Adam couldn’t stop him but he set a fast pace that the shorter older man had great difficulty in following. Whatever John had intended he didn’t have the chance to carry out as he had little breath for talking and then as they reached ‘C’ street Adam stopped abruptly said goodbye and his business took him into the Bucket O’Blood. John was shaken by his attitude, like many others he had heard rumours but discounted 90% of them knowing Virginia City. This was the first time that he’d seen the effects personally and he didn’t like it.

 

Adam ordered a brandy and took it over to the corner table on his own. Jim had needed telling for a long time but he wasn’t proud of the way that he’d done it, nor of his treatment of John. Twenty minutes later Adam merged from the saloon and started on a series of errands ranging from the Bank to the Telegraph Office, the Stockbrokers to the Gunsmiths, designed to make him visible and available in a part of town where women could move around.

 

By 3 p.m. he was beginning to think that he was wasting his time and he was running out of ideas of plausible excuses. Ten minutes later as he went back to the store to collect his order, he saw a lovely statuesque brunette approaching and he knew instinctively that this must be the other half of the bait. She was tall about five foot eight and eventually would probably become fat but at the moment she was at her best, curvaceous and proud. Dressed in a dark emerald green tight fitting dress, her hair elaborately piled up and a small green hat, barely more than a few feathers perched on the top, she was a sight to turn every man’s eye. As she walked down the street the outfit worked and virtually every male turned to watch her and Adam had no problem showing the appreciation she expected. She came into the store just as the clerk bustled over to Adam, ‘Your order is ready Mr. Cartwright.”

 

As though surprised the brunette’s attention was turned to Adam and she studied him with no attempt to hide it. Then with a smile she moved over to him, “You’re Adam Cartwright.”

 

Adam was rather taken aback by the direct approach he had expected another subtle move but he smiled at her, “Guilty as charged but I am sure that I have never had the pleasure of your acquaintance; that’s something I wouldn’t have forgotten.”

 

“No, you’re right we’ve never met although a couple of times we were at the same ball and once at the theatre for Hamlet. You were quite famous in London and were pointed out to me, I’m Lady Dinah Marchbrook, we have some mutual acquaintance. I believe you knew my cousin Charles at Cambridge.”

 

Adam took her proffered hand and kissed it. “Yes indeed but he kept very quiet about his lovely cousin. What brings you so far from civilization?”

 

She smiled,”A scandal. It didn’t go down too well at court and my family decided a long trip to see America would remove the problem. I’ve enjoyed it so far, just going where my fancy takes me.”

 

“You must allow me to show you around”

 

“I’d like that, so far I have seen very little of either the town or the country. This is a very male town seems a woman alone can’t go anywhere.”

 

“Nevada is still a mite rough and we don’t have that many respectable women.”

 

She smiled up at him and Adam seeing the glint of mischief in her eyes found himself grinning back. The hint at least that she wasn’t respectable was definitely there. Adam found her attractive and decided to take the bait then and there, “Do you have anything urgent planned or maybe you could do me the honour of having tea with me?”

 

She laughed, “You mean they have civilized things like tea here?”

 

“Certainly, if you know where to go.”

 

“Well then I’d be delighted.”

 

Adam turned to the clerk, “I’ll collect those later or send someone in tomorrow.” Then with the girl on his arm he led her down the street to a very sedate small hotel, ‘The Nevada House’. It wasn’t very large but it did a very good trade in afternoon teas amongst the ladies  of Virginia City. Adam was very aware of the shocked looks he got as he led in a total stranger. He might not see many people that he knew but with the ladies present word of his behaviour would pass round town faster than ever. Adam showed her to a seat carefully pulling out the chair and then easing it in for her before seating himself opposite.

 

Adam found her very easy to talk to as they explored their mutual acquaintances in England and she outlined her feelings about America so far. She had visited New York and New Orleans before heading west and although she had really enjoyed herself she had some caustic comments about some of the things she’d seen, which Adam found most entertaining.

 

To his surprise he suddenly realised that the room was almost empty, they had been talking for nearly two hours and he hadn’t realised how fast the time was passing. Almost as he realised Dinah looked round and laughed, “We’ll be thrown out in a minute.”

 

“I know. I hadn’t realised how fast time had gone.”

 

“I’m glad Adam because neither had I.”

 

“Come let me walk you back to your hotel.” Adam stood up leaving enough on the table to cover the cost of their tea with a generous tip and then offered his arm to Dinah. On the way back to the International Hotel Adam made arrangements to take her to dinner the following night. He was almost sure that he would go with Dinah but he promised himself to think it through carefully on the way home. He took her up to her room but didn’t go in; kissing her hand he thanked her for a very pleasant afternoon.

 

Adam decided to head straight home after collecting the stores. If anyone was surprised that he wasn’t, as he had recently heading for the nearest saloon, then they could put it down to the influence of Lady Dinah and that would suit him fine. It didn’t take long to collect the stores and Adam was relieved to leave town and head home. He didn’t hurry needing time to think

 

Adam was attracted much more to Lady Dinah  than he was to Suzanne and if he had to spend a lot of time with one of them it would be much easier with Dinah. He appreciated her sense of humour and her obvious intelligence, much greater than Suzanne’s. Equally given that he would eventually have to take one of them to bed he found Dinah physically much more attractive. There were a number of factors in Dinah’s favour; not least the relief of not needing to use a second language but Adam was well aware that there was one very large objection. The intelligence he found so attractive would also be his biggest danger. In the short time he’d known her he had become very aware how quick and intuitive she was. It would be a risk to try and fool her over the coming weeks and he wasn’t entirely sure that it was a risk he dared to take. The other side of the coin was the reaction of family and friends and somehow Adam thought he could make them believe in an infatuation with Lady Dinah but he doubted his capability of doing so if Suzanne Fauré was involved. Adam had just about decided that the risk would have to be taken and was approaching the turn off for his own home when he was suddenly aroused from his reverie.

 

Joe had been determined to talk to his brother and he had been waiting for the last two hours, prepared to wait until dawn if necessary. H had seen Blackie coming and moved Cochise out next to him as Adam came up to the turn off. Adam was startled and turned in the saddle “What do you want?”

 

“To talk. Will you come up to the lake with me?”

 

Adam was tired and just wanted to get home and he allowed his irritation to show, “Can’t it wait or at least let me get home first.”

 

“Adam please. It can’t wait and I don’t want to talk with any of the girls around.”

 

“If you want to talk about my personal life then don’t waste both our times.”

 

“You once said that anytime I wanted to talk you’d find the time. Has that changed?”

 

Adam remembered saying that to a confused fourteen year old boy, trying so hard to live up to his elder brothers and although he knew it might be kinder to turn Joe down flat he couldn’t do it. He turned Blackie and headed up to the lake, consoling himself that Joe wouldn’t give up until he’d had his say.

 

The brothers rode up to the lake in silence and without discussion they dismounted, tied up their horses and walked up to the point. Then Adam turned to look at his brother, not bothering to hide his near anger as he waited for Joe to speak, he wasn’t going to help.

Now he had his brother there Joe didn’t know quite how to start, he’d never known Adam so withdrawn and didn’t know how to reach him. Joe bit his lip and then said “Once you said that I could hit you when you’d finished if I wanted but to hear you out first. Now I’m asking the same.”

Adam remembered clearly saying that to Joe when he tried to bring him and Marie back together, now he found it very hard not to respond to his little brother and tensed up, but just said “I’m listening.”

 

Joe found it hard to talk to that cold withdrawn face so unlike his brother but he had to try.

“Look Adam I know that something is wrong but I don’t know what it is. It can’t have gone that wrong in just the few weeks I’ve been away. I don’t know whether it’s trouble between you and Carole and if it is I know it’s none of my business but I care for you both. Maybe it would help to talk.” Joe stopped invitingly but Adam just stared at him so he pressed on. “Pa’s worried that you still haven’t fully recovered from that tree, the long days when we couldn’t find you. He felt maybe you blamed us for not finding you. I know that isn’t true. I know it was an ordeal, I felt your pain but it’s since then, you’ve cut yourself right off from us.” Joe lent forward the intensity clear in his eyes, “Adam all my life I’ve been able to reach out to you for reassurance. I think you’ve always known, it has to be a two way thing. On the west shore for the first time in my life I couldn’t. That scared me Adam, hurt and I’m sure you feel it too. Whatever’s wrong please let me help. We can sort it out as a family, as we always have.”

 

Adam could see the love and compassion in his brother’s eyes and it took all his will power not to respond but to say coldly, “Have you quite finished?’

 

Joe could only nod and Adam went on “You got one thing right, it’s none of your business. Now if you don’t mind I’d like to go home. You all keep moaning at me that I don’t spend enough time there.” Adam suited the actions to the word and not waiting for Joe he went back to Blackie and headed out.

 

Joe stayed up at the lake for several hours, badly shaken by his total inability to reach his brother, thinking round in circles trying to make sense of the impossible. Eventually tired and hungry he went home and slowly Nita, and in a way even more his young son, lightened his mood.

 

Adam had arrived home several hours before Joe and he was even more depressed. It had been hard enough to be curt with his father but with his little brother, trying so earnestly to help, Adam had needed every ounce of will power not to give in and explain. He was still sure that he was doing the right thing but he badly needed a few hours peace and quiet with Carole to sort out his thoughts. Carole slowly calmed him down, not needing any detailed explanations once she heard he had been up to the lake with Joe. Even though they were reasonably early to bed it was a long time before Adam could sleep. Despite that he was up early and spent an hour with his children before breakfast.

 

Adam had just finished eating and was sitting over coffee when Hoss arrived, equally as determined as his younger brother to break through to Adam, find out what was wrong. Adam offered coffee and Hoss accepted but asked to take it through to the study, they needed to talk. There was little Adam wanted less but he knew that he had to let Hoss have his say and led the way through. He moved over to the window, staring out his back to his big brother.

 

Hoss put his cup down and went over gently resting his hand on Adam’s shoulder only to feel his brother tense against him. Hoss let his hand drop and like Joe he found it hard to start but something had to be said. “Adam I know what your children mean to you, Carole too. I just don’t understand how you could do what you did on Sunday.”

 

“The shoring needed doing.”

“It wasn’t so urgent that you couldn’t leave it for a poker game. Why suddenly was it so urgent you had to leave your own daughter’s birthday party?”

 

“Marie’s too young to understand.”

 

“Carole isn’t. Did you even think how much you were hurting her, or was that what you wanted?’ Hoss asked bitterly.

 

That broke through Adam’s defences in a way that neither his father nor Joe had managed and he turned round a blaze of anger clear in his eyes. “It’s none of your business, you know nothing about it.”

 

Hoss put up his hand in a peace sign, “But I care about you both.’

 

Adam glared at him, “I won’t stand here and be insulted in my own study. Mind your own business and leave me alone.” The anger was still clear in his eyes but to Hoss he at least seemed more himself than the cold withdrawn face he’d worn when Hoss arrived.  Hoss put out his hand to stop his brother as Adam moved away but Adam threw it off angrily and went over to pour himself a brandy, this time he really wanted it.

 

Hoss couldn’t help himself, “For God’s sake it’s only just gone eight.” He knew even as he spoke that it was the worst thing he could have done but even so he was totally unprepared as Adam erupted in fury. “You are my brother not my keeper. You don’t tell me what to do in my own home. Get out of my study and leave me alone.”

 

“Adam I….’

 

Adam wouldn’t let him speak, “Get out and don’t bother coming back until you’re asked. Leave me alone!”

 

Hoss turned on his heel and went out without a word, badly shaken by the anger he’d rarely seen in Adam and never before focused on him. He was oblivious of Carole and the children as he left the house. A house where he had always been welcome up to now and where he had never imagined things could be any different. He didn’t want to see anyone, not Sue or even Johnny and definitely not his father or Joe. He saddled up and rode up to the lake nursing his hurt, trying to understand and for the first time fearing for his brother’s sanity. The only explanation he could come up with that seemed to make any sense was that Adam was mentally ill. He sat staring at the graves of Ross and Delphine remembering all too vividly how in ten months mental illness had caused Ross to kill his wife and forced Adam to kill his friend. He remembered too that Doc had said then that there weren’t any facilities or ways to really help the mentally ill. Hoss prayed that his brother wasn’t ill, or if he was that somehow the love and help of the whole family could bring him back. The whole idea terrified Hoss and he didn’t find any of the usual peace by the lake, eventually riding hard to check fence but never able to leave his thoughts behind. He couldn’t face discussing his fears even with Sue, if he put it into words somehow that would make it more likely, more real, so Hoss tried to bury his dread in hard work.

 

As his brother left, Adam sank down in his chair by the fire, feeling totally drained. He had been working towards a row or a series of rows and a public break from his family. He had thought he knew what that would entail and that since his family were angry with a mirage he’d created that it wouldn’t affect him. Now at the first test he had lost control, hurt his brother and he hated himself for it. He would have given a fortune to be able to go after Hoss and explain, to take Hoss in his arms and tell him that of course Hoss was always welcome in his home. He couldn’t do it because the cost wouldn’t be money it might be Sue or Johnny and that pain would never leave his brother. Anymore than the pain of losing the Ponderosa would leave them. Adam straightened his shoulders; he’d gone into this with his eyes open and if it hurt more than he’d expected that was a small price to pay to keep those he loved safe.

 

When Carole brought him some coffee he had managed to hide the naked pain that had been so clear but Carole knew him so well she could see it lurking in his eyes. She had seen Hoss’ face as he left and knew how it must be tearing at her husband who loved his big gentle kind hearted brother very deeply. Carole knew that there were no words that could help, the decision was made and they had to carry it through so she said nothing. She just put her arms round Adam and calmed him in the only way she knew.

 

Book 2 – 

Summary:  Adam finally finds out how long he has to keep up the act but the final break looms closer.

 

Despite his arguments with his brothers Adam was well in control by the time he rode over to the main house to put in a day’s work, before riding into town for his date with Lady Dinah. He took his evening clothes with him and changed in his old bedroom. Ben saw him come down, very smartly dressed and knew that he wasn’t heading home but he was beginning to learn and he made no comment.

Adam was in town in good time and collected flowers for the lady before picking her up at the International. As before he had booked one of the booths of the main dining room but this time he didn’t arrange for the food in advance. This was a woman of very decided opinions and she should help to choose the menu.

Adam was prompt but she wasn’t ready and he sat sipping brandy for nearly half an hour in the sitting room of her suite before she emerged. The wait he assured her had been well worth it, she was magnificent in heavy gold brocade, her hair piled high and disdaining all jewellery apart from a beautiful emerald pendant which rested just on the cleavage of her large white breasts. The dress cut low enough to show them to advantage and the pendent trembling intriguingly with each breath that she took.

Adam had no difficulty in showing his appreciation of the way she looked. She was a very beautiful woman, even he had to admit, as lovely as Carole in her own way and with a sensual aura about her that Carole had never had. Adam kissed her hand formally, “Very lovely Dinah.”

He led her down to dinner, acknowledging Suzanne Fauré with a nod where she sat in the far corner. He knew as he did so that for better or worse he had made his choice. He would risk Lady Dinah’s quick intelligence; she was the only plausible mistress for him. Adam ordered wine and they sat close together, sipping wine and debating the relative merits of the various dishes on the menu. Eventually the choice made, Adam ordered and then sat back and toasted her beauty.

Dinah smiled, “At least I don’t have to worry about adding extra height when I dress my hair while I’m with you Adam Cartwright.”

“It suits you, magnificent, Lady Dinah.”

“Why so formal, my closest friends call me Di.”

Adam took her hand and kissed it, “Di it shall be.” He showed no sign of relinquishing the hand that he’d captured and Suzanne finishing her meal saw and went out with a touch of a flounce. She knew she’d lost to the English girl, not understanding how any man could choose the bigger woman against her own petite elegance. Worse than that the large fee on offer wouldn’t come her way, even though she wouldn’t be out of pocket on the trip.
Adam saw her go but didn’t give the slightest sign that it meant anything to him.

As the hors d’oeuvre arrived Adam let go of Di’s hand and settled to entertain her. They didn’t rush their meal but, as the previous day, time seemed to go very fast. They had enough in common to never lack a topic of conversation and their sense of humour was in tune. Adam found he was able to actually relax and enjoy himself. Di knew all too well how to keep a man happy, it was a skill she’d been born with and it was no act from Adam. He was thoroughly enjoying himself, even able to forget for a little while his brothers’ hurt faces. Despite his apparent relaxation Adam kept very tight hold on all he said. He was well aware that she would pick up on every nuance of what he said or how he acted. It was gone eleven when they finished and Adam escorted her back to her room. He didn’t wait for an invitation but went in with her and accepted a brandy. He sat down on the sofa and patted the seat next to him, “Come here Di.”

She was very willing and when he lifted his arm up she came and cuddled close to him, lifting her face for his kiss. Adam did as she obviously wanted but then pulled away, “Maybe I’d better go.”

She knew enough not to rush him and moved away to the other end of the sofa, “Stay a little longer Adam.”

Adam sat down smiling ruefully, “Like a kid at his first dance!”

“Hardly” she smiled gently touching her lips, still feeling the pressure of his lips.

“I just don’t want to rush anything Di. I only saw you for the first time yesterday.”

“No need.” She sat back at peace, sure in time she would have him firmly hooked and she redirected the conversation into less dangerous channels. Adam offered to show her some of the beautiful land away from the raucous hustle of Virginia City and she accepted enthusiastically. Adam didn’t want to push too hard, let her work for it; she’d believe him more readily. Thus he claimed that work would keep him busy the next couple of days but agreed to pick her up around eleven on Friday morning to take her for a picnic. That pleased Dinah and she willingly agreed. Then to his surprise Adam realised it was gone 1 a.m.  and he got to his feet, “I must get home or I won’t be fit for work tomorrow.”

Dinah moved close to him as she went to see him out and Adam didn’t find it any great hardship to do what she obviously wanted. He pulled her very close, crushing her body against his and kissed her, a long lingering kiss. Then he pushed her away, turned and left, pulling the door shut behind him.

Inside Di touched her lips and smiled, this was a man well worth the chase, regardless of any fee. If she was any judge he was already more than half hooked, he wouldn’t put her out of his mind easily. She headed for bed very content, much as she enjoyed sex, she also loved the game. Adam was a man who wanted her but she’d have to fight his conscience first. She would win, she had no doubt, but the more he fought the more respect she would have for him and the sweeter the victory. Adam hesitated at the top of the stairs and looked back at her room, slowly rubbing his fingers over his lips, she was quite a girl. He was well aware that he was being watched and had little doubt that word of every move he made would get back to Hearst and his associates. Then, as though forcing himself to leave, Adam turned abruptly and taking the stairs two at a time headed for Blackie and home.

Adam was right Hearst was very pleased at the reports he got, this one looked much more promising. Lady Dinah had already reported that she was going riding with him on Friday. Hearst wasn’t the only one informed, nearly the whole town knew of Adam’s dinner with yet another beautiful stranger and the length of time he spent in her room afterwards. They were quick to believe things had gone further and faster than they had and were already pointing Lady Dinah out as Adam Cartwright’s new mistress. Dan and Roy discounted most of that but Roy had seen them together with his own eyes; seemingly wrapped up in each other as Adam used to be with his wife. Roy debated whether he ought to tell Ben but Dan cautioned him, “Ben won’t take it well and it ain’t our business to tell him.”

“He’s bound to hear, it’s all over town.”

“Yeah, but I’d let someone else stick their necks out!” Dan advised.

“Maybe you’re right at that. Adam’s a grown man and he has a punishing right if he get’s annoyed.”

Dan laughed, “True but I wasn’t even thinking of him. Ben’s been known to lash out when he’s hurt.”

On Wednesday Ben was relieved to see Adam over fairly early and not drinking. His son was very quiet, obviously not wanting to talk, but he left the brandy alone and as he cleared some contract work, he looked to be closer to his efficient self. Ben left him strictly alone, leaving Adam to come to him if he wanted. Adam worked steadily, not even breaking for food just asking for coffee and sandwiches, until gone 9 p.m. The main contract was drawn and he passed it over to Ben for checking, keeping the conversation firmly to work. “I’ll finish the two railroad contracts tomorrow. Any queries on this and you can tell me then.”
“I have to go to Sacramento in the morning.” Ben reminded him

“Oh yeah I’d forgotten, well leave a note on the desk, I’ll be over.” Adam pulled on his coat and grabbed his hat, then with a curt nod he was gone. Ben let the papers drop, his son hadn’t as much as wished him a good trip. Maybe Adam was working better but he was still a long way from his normal self.

On Wednesday Jess had redeemed his promise to Adam and had gone looking for Hoss or Joe. He would have preferred to see Hoss, scared the quicker Little Joe would see through his act. However Hoss was out working, pushing himself hard setting up the lumber camp, doing more than he needed to personally in an attempt to stop the thoughts that he couldn’t bear. It didn’t work, hard as he pressed part of his brain seemed uninvolved, free to think round and round in fear for the brother he loved.

Joe was at home, completing the ordering of supplies he’d expected Adam to have done. He was worried too and more than a little angry, but so far he hadn’t come up with the explanation that Hoss feared and although anxious and cross with Adam he still felt that his brother would come down to normal in time. His wife and young son lightened his mood and he was making the most of their company, knowing that on Friday he was due to ride up and help José move the cattle to their summer pasture, once the branding was complete. In some ways he’d be glad to ride out, fed up with all the paperwork but he was loathe to leave Nita and their son.

Having failed to find Hoss, Jess knocked at Joe’s door. Sue had been able to tell him that her younger brother-in-law was at home. Nita let him in and offered coffee. Jess smiled “Thanks Nita. Is Joe in?”

“Yes in the study.”

“It’s sort of important.”

“Come through I’ll bring you both coffee. I’d bet he’ll be glad of a break.”

Jess nodded, although he was equally sure Joe wouldn’t want to hear what he had to say. Joe looked up as Jess came in and rather surprised, he put his pen down and walked round the desk. ”Well hello Jess. Come and sit down. What can I do for you? Is Nita getting coffee or would you rather have a drink?”

“Coffee will be fine. Sorry to disturb you Joe but I wanted a word.” Just then Nita brought in two cups of coffee and a plate of cookies. Neither man said anymore until Nita left. Jess ate a cookie and sipped his coffee, finding it hard to start. Joe could make a guess as to why he was there but left it up to the other man to start.

Eventually Jess put his cup down and walked over to the window, “I don’t know how much you’ve heard Joe, I know you’ve been over on the west shore. Maybe it’s none of my business but you know how much your brother means to me.” He broke off staring out.
Joe bit his lip but just murmured “Go on.”

Jess turned to face him, “I’m known as his friend and noone says a hell of a lot to my face, but even so I’ve heard things that just don’t sound like Adam. What the hell’s going on Joe?”

Joe sighed heavily, rubbing his hand across his mouth and squeezing the bridge of his nose, a severe headache starting up but he knew Jess well and trusted him. “I only wish I knew Jess. There’s something wrong for sure, but Adam’s not talking. I don’t know if Carole really understands or not but she’s not talking either. I take it Adam hasn’t said anything to you?”

“I’ve hardly seen him since he got back after that tree fell.” Jess said, stretching the truth.
Joe got to his feet, “I need a drink. Join me?”

“Maybe I will.”

Joe poured two brandies and standing staring at the picture over his mantle, down to the point from the far side of the lake, he said, “Would you mind telling me just what you have heard. Apart from Carole, Pa and Hoss, you and I know him better than anyone. Maybe between us, we can make sense of this.”

Jess found it very hard not to tell Joe the truth there and then, the pain and worry was so very clear in Joe’s voice and all for a lie, but he’d given Adam his word and the reasons were still strong. Instead he did his best to do as Joe asked. Joe was bound to hear one way or another and maybe it was easier from him. Most of what Jess told him, the drinking and gambling was no more than Joe’d heard from Dan and Roy, even his father. Jess lay rather more emphasis on Adam taking two different women for meals. He claimed as was true that he’d been to town that morning and that the main gossip was the beautiful brunette Adam had dined with before going up to her room for more than two hours and that the Frenchwoman he’d dined before was furious. Joe turned in consternation at that, “Who is she?”

“English aristocracy from all accounts, Lady Dinah Marchbrook, maybe he knows her?”

Joe thought hard but the name didn’t mean anything to him and he’d met all Adam’s friends, close ones anyway, when he went to Europe with him after Marie’s death. “Even if he does, why not bring her home or arrange a party, not this way ….” He broke off, worried just how much it would hurt Carole when she heard.

Jess said, “You know Virginia City Joe, gossip always exaggerates, hell they had him off with some woman when he was hurt. Ready to believe the worst at the moment. Don’t mean anything.”
“He doesn’t have to ask for it.” Joe said with a touch of bitterness. “Thanks for telling me Jess. I’d only heard of the French one. A high class whore according to Dan.”

“Adam’s too fastidious to fall for that sort, so maybe you’re worrying over nothing.”

Joe shrugged, “I just find it hard to believe he can treat Carole this way, it’s not like him.”

Jess tried to calm him down, “Rows in marriage can blow up mighty fast, even be bitter for a while and just as quickly be forgotten. Maybe that’s all it is.”

“I hope so.” Joe agreed, “If I learn anything I’ll let you know. Will you do the same?”

Jess promised, knowing that he’d already broken that promise and hoping that once things came out Joe would forgive him for what he’d just done. He excused himself and headed home, knowing that Adam was right it had been necessary, but very glad it was over.

Joe tried to settle back to work but he couldn’t and wandered over to see Carole and the kids. She was preoccupied with the children and didn’t want to talk but at least the kids were the same as ever and gratifyingly pleased to see their Uncle. Slowly Joe relaxed and unable to face telling Carole what the gossips were saying, praying she never had to know, he went home and got on.

Adam treated himself to a night off and when he got home soon after nine, he curled up on the hearth rug, his head on Carole’s lap, the doors all locked and windows shuttered he could be himself. Carole wanted to know more about Dinah, knowing that her husband had chosen his mistress but she had the sense not to ask. For one evening Adam was able to forget everything and just relax and enjoy his own beloved wife.

That night for the first time in weeks Adam slept really well and woke up fully refreshed. He would have liked to work at home but that didn’t fit the image so after an hour with his children, he kissed Carole passionately and headed for the main house. At least in his father’s absence he didn’t need to act and could work fast and get home. His good intentions weren’t fulfilled, mid-morning there was a knock on the door. Sean Dale, the youngest cowboy from Jess’ ranch was there with a message for Ben. When Adam said that his father was away, Sean passed over a note from Mr Ballard to give Ben.   Adam nodded and the boy left. Adam knew Jess was well aware that Ben was away and guessed correctly that the note was for him and Jess had chosen this indirect method of contacting him, not wanting his own hands to know how involved he was with Adam. The note was short and to the point, “Large package arrived and telegram, needs answer. Can you call by?”

Adam looked at the mass of papers on his desk and sighed, so much for an early night. Still Jess wouldn’t have sent for him if it wasn’t important. He knew he couldn’t settle to routine work until he knew what Jess had so he left his work and went out to the stables. There he ordered Kirk to saddle a nondescript chestnut mare and when Kirk queried why he wasn’t using his own black stallion Adam curtly told him just to do as he was asked. Kirk had known Adam most of his life and usually offered advice freely whether asked or not, but he sensed for once that it was better to shut up and rather to Adam’s surprise quietly saddled the horse. That brought home to Adam more clearly than anything else how effective his acting had been over the previous weeks. Adam hated the effect it had on men that he’d called friends for years but he put that to the back of his mind and made good time over to Jess’. He kept to little used back ways and didn’t see a soul. He pulled up in the trees and watched the yard for five minutes but the only figure in sight was Jess himself. Depending on his friend to have got rid of his hands, Adam rode up openly.
Jess saw him coming and waved. He quickly confirmed Adam’s expectation and told him to come on in. Lisa had a meal waiting and she’d made enough for three as Jess had expected Adam to act as soon as he read the note. Adam went in and accepted coffee but he was eager to see the telegrams and the package.  The package was from Rey, the rest of the papers that he’d promised from Monterey and the Carmel Mission with a note to say he was on his way to San Luis Obispo. Adam put that to one side to read later and took the telegram. It was from Holmes and was short and to the point, “Do you need less 48?”  Jess didn’t understand and Adam hoped that was true of others too, it seemed all too clear to him.

Adam explained, “In 1848 many laws changed round here. After the Mexican war this area became American. Oliver wants to know if I want legal detail prior to the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo that made this America.”

“I see, so what’s the answer, do you?”

“Very definitely. I don’t know what he can dig up but it may be vital. We have been on the Ponderosa since April 1846; any claim predating us must be earlier than 1848.”

“But if it wasn’t part of the United States then?”

Adam smiled, “That’s why Jamie is in Mexico.”

“Okay so you’re ahead of me, that ain’t exactly unusual. Write out what you want to say and I’ll ride in after lunch and get a telegram off.”

Adam smiled a little ruefully at his friend, “I’m sorry to be such a nuisance Jess. You have enough on your plate establishing yourself here, without my problems taking up so much of your time.”

Before Jess could say anything Liza intervened, “Don’t be silly Adam we wouldn’t have this ranch without you. Of course Jess has to help. I just wish that there was more we could do.”
Jess nodded agreeing with every word that his wife said and it was written all over his face.
Adam relaxed and pulled Liza down on his knee giving her a hug and kissing her cheek before offering his hand almost formally to his friend. “Thank you, with such good friends, how can I fail?”

Adam ate Liza’s dinner with good appetite and sent Jess off with a three word telegram, “Please, vital, Ballard.” It was going to John Chance in Boston and shouldn’t mean anything to anyone. Then taking his large package Adam tried to think of an easy way for Jess to let him know he had something. Without involving anyone else it was difficult and he could only suggest leaving word with Dick at the livery stable. From now on he expected to be in town most days and Dick could pass word quietly.

Jess had one further piece of news; Steve Fallon was due on Saturday and was coming straight to his ranch so Adam promised to come by late Saturday evening. He would collect whatever Steve had brought, so that he could read it over and then meet up with Steve on Sunday. Adam wasn’t expecting anything urgent and said that barring emergencies he’d see Jess on Saturday. Then he headed home, taking precautions so that he wasn’t seen.
Adam went straight back to the main house and left Kirk to see to the mare while he went in to get on. Hop Sing hustled in to offer food but Adam curtly refused “Just coffee.” He could see the hurt on Hop Sing’s face and in many ways it was even harder to be rude to the old Chinaman than his own family. At least he could console himself that he was doing all this for the sake of his family. Adam sipped his coffee and by sheer will power forced himself to concentrate on the contracts. He had to ensure that they were as watertight as usual, although slightly more verbose than was his wont.

Eventually he was able to tidy up his papers and stretching he got his gunbelt, coat and hat and taking Rey’s package headed home. Carole had already fed the children and was about to put the twins to bed. Seeing Adam they clamoured for Daddy to read them a story and Adam lifted one on each hip and bore them up to bed. Mark and David were adept at getting the last possible bit of attention from Adam on the rare occasions during the summer that he was there to put them to bed instead of Carole and it was more than three quarters of an hour before he finally extricated himself.

Carole was sitting by the fire darning the knee of David’s trousers where he had torn it falling over earlier. Adam stopped on the stair and watched her in the firelight, highlights in her hair glinting as her head bent over her work. Suddenly Carole became aware of his gaze and looked up, “What are you doing there?”

“Enjoying the view. I swear you get more beautiful every month, despite my antics.”

“What in these old clothes?”

“Far more beautiful than any other woman could be.” Adam moved over swiftly and lifted her chin, “I think it’s your eyes and all the love I see in them.”

Carole lent against him as he kissed her forehead, “Well that’s true anyway, I know you love me and you know you have all my love.”

Adam kissed her passionately, “My darling I was so lucky when you came west and you know you have long had my heart.”

She smiled freely knowing what was worrying him, “I know and that will still be true even when you are in bed with Lady Dinah. It’s alright darling what we have can’t be affected by a mechanical bodily function.”

“You have to be sure?”

Carole reached up gently stroking his cheek and then kissed him, “I’m sure, as you said once before we’ve been all through this. What is she like?”

“More intelligent than the Frenchwoman with a sense of humour. Very sensual and nearly as beautiful as you.”

“You sound as though you like her.”

“Under other circumstances I think we could have been friends. I think you would like her too. But then I wouldn’t have taken her to bed and unless I miss my guess she could never be satisfied with less from a man. I shall have to watch myself, she’s far quicker than the French girl but at least people will believe I could be infatuated with her.”

Carole bit her lip, wondering whether this one might actually come to matter to her husband. She was quick to hide the thought but not quickly enough. Adam tilted her face up gently and kissed her, “I made love to women before we met, cared for several but never as I love you, the mother of my children, my partner for life. Nothing can ever touch that. Certainly not a woman who is a slave to her own body. If the French girl was a high class whore, this one is closer to a courtesan. I’m sure she doesn’t do it for money but she needs men and no single man could ever own her. She doesn’t have the love to give that you do, less in her whole body than you have in your little finger. That’s why despite her looks she’ll never have a fraction of your beauty.”

Carole read the deep love in his eyes and knew she had nothing to fear. Dinah wouldn’t touch the real Adam anymore than the rapists had reached her. Whatever his body did as long as his heart was so clearly hers she had nothing to fear. Adam had meant to read Rey’s papers but they could wait and he picked Carole up and carried her to bed.

Hoss had got home late for supper that night and Sue though he looked tired and drawn. For once Hoss wasn’t hungry and was only picking at his food. Sue fed Johnny and settled him down and then went back to find her big husband sitting staring unseeingly at the fire, his expressive face showing all too clearly that his thoughts weren’t exactly pleasant.

Sue considered him for a moment and then moved over behind him and started massaging his shoulders. “Why don’t you tell me about it darling. You’re going to make yourself ill if you carry on like this.”

Hoss turned to look up at her, “I’m not sure I want to talk.”

“I think you need to.” Sue gently kissed his forehead, “Let me try and help.”

Hoss sighed heavily but he knew she was right he couldn’t carry on as he had the last few days. Hs wife was a nurse maybe she could give him some answers. He pulled her down on his lap and stared out over her head, not wanting even his beloved Sue to see the deep hurt in his eyes as he spoke. He said, “I went to see Adam early Tuesday morning, wanted to know why he wasn’t at Marie’s party.” He hesitated but Sue just waited for him to go on, she had been virtually certain that Adam was at the bottom of Hoss’ mood. Hoss carried on “He said that Marie was too young to know and I told him that Carole wasn’t. Asked if he’d done it deliberately to hurt her.” He shook his head sighing heavily, “I was wrong I know, shouldna said anything, specially that. Didn’t mean to. It just come out. Tried to explain that it was just ‘cos they both mean so much to me but it didn’t make no difference. I ain’t never seen Adam more furious and he ain’t ever been anywhere near as cross with me. Told me to get out and leave him alone, not to go back without an invitation.”

Sue was shocked by that, she knew just how much the brothers meant to each other, but she did her best to hide it, cuddling closer “Darling I’m sure he didn’t mean it, not once he’d calmed down.”

“I ain’t so sure Sue but that’s only part of it.” Hoss bit his lip and for a moment he couldn’t go on. Sue could feel the tension in him but she just waited for him to go on. Hoss leant back staring up at the ceiling, eventually he said, “Reckon you’re probably right that he will calm down, I sorta thought the same. I went up to the lake to try and think things through, work out why he was acting this way. There are two graves up there. Not family, close friends of Adam’s, Ross and Delphine. Think I told you once Ross was mentally ill, killed Delphine and forced Adam to kill him. Adam took it real hard but he said just at the end Ross was like he always was, a gentle kind man, not the killer he’d become but he thought it was ten months earlier. The way Ross acted, not at all like he normally did.” Hoss fell silent not daring to put his fears into words.

Sue pulled away and turned to study his face, seeing the naked fear there. “You don’t think that Adam is mentally ill surely?”
Hoss couldn’t answer but the truth of her accusation was clear on his face. Sue went over to get them both a brandy while she considered his suggestion. Her immediate reaction had been that it was nonsense but Hoss was obviously deeply worried and he needed more than that from her. She thought hard about exactly how Adam had been reacting and decided her first thought was right. She pulled a chair close and handed Hoss his brandy, “Come on love relax. Let’s talk this out.”

Hoss sat up straighter and took the brandy. He studied her face, “You think I’m wrong?”

“I’m sure of it.” Sue said positively and she saw a flicker of hope cross his face. Hoss asked “Why? God knows how much I hope you’re right but ….”

Sue kissed him gently, “I have seen mental illness Hoss. All too frequently and there’s so little anyone can do for them. There are certain signs, difficult to explain, a vagueness, an emptiness in their eyes that they all have in common. Adam doesn’t show any of those signs.”

“Noone guessed about Ross for months, just his character changing, like Adam’s seems to be.”

Sue shook her head “I don’t think it is. I don’t know what Adam is up to and I can’t pretend to think of any explanation for his recent behaviour. But I am sure of one thing, there is a reason and everything that he’s doing is carefully planned under his control.”

“That don’t make any sense Sue!”

“I know but that’s because we’re missing some factor, some piece of information which would make sense of it.”

“You’re saying he’s deliberately setting out to quarrel, alienate himself from his whole family even his wife.” Hoss looked at her in disbelief.

“I’m not sure how much Carole knows.” She said speculatively. Hoss couldn’t believe what Sue was suggesting and she backed away from it. “The other possibility is that Adam and Carole’s marriage is in real trouble and everything else comes from that. You know how close they were, if there really are rows that bite deep it wouldn’t be surprising if Adam reacted badly, lashing out every other way.”

“They’ve always seemed so perfectly suited.”

“I know and even if there are rows they might well get back to it. You’ve always trusted Adam before why not do so now. He said to leave him alone and Carole has said the same. Leave them to work it out and try not to worry.”

“Easy to say.”

“I know darling but one thing I am very sure of, there’s nothing wrong with Adam’s brain.”

Hoss was relieved at his wife’s insistence that he was wrong. He still wasn’t one hundred percent convinced that she was right but at least he managed to put his fear to the back of his mind for now. She didn’t realise how close she had been to the truth and assuming that her husband knew his brother a lot better than she did she put that theory to one side. Hoss managed to sleep that night and was even hungry when it came time for breakfast.
Hoss picked Joe up once he’d finished eating. They were going to help with the roundup for a couple of days, oversee the branding and check the calf tally before Hoss returned to the lumber camp while Joe saw the cattle up to their summer pasture.

Adam knew exactly what his brothers would be doing and he intended to throw down the gauntlet, taking Dinah close enough to them to be seen. It would then be up to his brothers whether they reacted then or later. He’d warned Carole that he might be late back after two days he needed to show his face round town, to reconfirm his growing reputation.

Adam had decided to ride into town and hire a buggy there. He would also order a picnic, it meant arriving in town earlier than he liked but would look better if anyone was checking up on him. He could hardly have his wife prepare a picnic for his prospective mistress. Adam was in town by nine and his arrangements were completed faster than he expected leaving him with an hour to kill before he was supposed to collect Dinah. Adam headed for Marye’s brokerage. John Marye had fulfilled Adam’s orders and sold off several blocks of shares, at rather better prices than Adam had expected. John offered coffee and Adam accepted sipping his coffee while John totted up the sums he had realized so far and made out a bank draft for the total less his commission.

Adam considered the draft, with his poker winnings he decided he had ample cash on hand for all likely contingencies and so he told John to hold off selling anything else for the moment. Adam could see all the questions that John had too much sense to ask whirling around his head but just took the bank draft and left.  For now he wasn’t intending paying it in and, while he was unobserved on the stairs, he slipped it in a secret slot on the back of his holster, a hiding place he’d often used before.

Still with a little time to fill Adam went into the General Store and bought an attractive parasol to protect Dinah from the sun in an open buggy. Then he went to collect firstly the buggy and then the picnic basket, prepared to his order at the International Hotel. He left a small urchin on guard and went into the Hotel expecting a long wait as on the previous occasion.

This time to his surprise Dinah was ready, an attractive but much more sedate deep emerald dress showing off her dark hair to advantage. This time she had allowed her hair to fall round her shoulders but even with a high neckline the dress was so close fitting and she had such an aura that Adam was conscious of nearly every man turning to look as he drove her out of town. He didn’t flatter himself that that had anything to do with him, although he was equally sure that the whole town would soon know what he was up to.

Once well clear of town Adam was able to relax, not needing to concentrate on driving and started to point out the main features of the land. He had no intention of taking Dinah to the Lake, that place was too important to him but there were plenty of other beautiful spots.
Adam drove over to the canyon where the breeding horses were kept and introduced her to their two best stallions. Di, like most members of the English aristocracy, had been brought up with horses. She was a good rider and reckoned herself a good judge of horseflesh. She was most impressed by what she saw, very different from most of the cowponies she had seen around Virginia City.

Adam took her to a spot overlooking the canyon for lunch and relaxed over the food, answering her questions about the horses and his ranch. That gave him an obvious opening and he told her about the cattle, at that moment being branded before going up to the summer pasture. As he had expected she asked to see the operation and he hesitated, just long enough to give the impression that he was worried about being seen by his family and then he agreed’

Dinah was pleased with the progress she was making. He was obviously very attracted physically not that she’d had any doubts on that score but more importantly he was slowly making more public commitments to her. She had been well warned that he was clever and she mustn’t try and rush him but if she could keep on edging him to more and more public appearances with her, the rumours would start. Faced with a situation where everyone assumed he was having an affair she was sure she could nudge him into actually having one. Once she had him in her bed she was supremely confidant that she could keep him occupied for the few weeks that were required. She had gone into the job with her eyes open, cut off by her family for one too many scandals, she badly needed some money of her own. She enjoyed men but liked to be free to leave when she wanted and to do that she needed money. Hearst was paying enough to give her that independence for several years. It had come as a very pleasant surprise to find that the man she was required to seduce was both physically attractive and so charming that he was a pleasure to be with.

Adam knew exactly where his brothers and José would be working and he drove over there, taking his time. She was intrigued by the flume which was clearly visible and Adam explained its use. He boasted a little of how he had designed it and the company now building them in California, called ‘The Cartwright Company’ in recognition of his work, even though he wasn’t involved. She was impressed as he had intended, sure things would be better in some ways if she didn’t think him too easy a mark. Almost despite himself Adam enjoyed the praise she heaped on him.

Then the branding camp was in sight and Adam was relieved to see just José and a couple of hands. Even though he intended to throw down the gauntlet to his brothers he would rather not face them directly just yet. Inevitably they would soon hear what he had done but it might be easier  if they heard second hand and he would far rather face their undoubted anger on his own not in front of Dinah. Eventually he planned on family rows becoming public to convince Hearst that his plans were working but not yet.

Adam pulled up alongside the spare horses in a makeshift corral and carefully helped Dinah down. She took his arm and walked very close to him an air of possessiveness about her that José didn’t miss. Adam saw the flicker of concern on his friend’s face but then it was gone and putting down the branding iron to reheat José came gracefully to his feet.

Adam introduced the tall elegant vaquero as their ranch foreman, José Bettencort, to Lady Dinah Marchbrook. He said lightly that she was a visitor from England and he was showing her a little of the ranch. José relaxed at that, maybe he’d been wrong about her attitude. Adam frequently had parties of visitors from England reciprocating some of the hospitality he’d found there. José wasn’t proof against her beauty and he enjoyed answering all her questions about the herd. He was proud of ‘his’ cattle, identifying himself totally with the Cartwrights, equally proud of them. Adam stayed in the background and watched amused as José succumbed to Di’s charm. The susceptible vaquero would do all that was needed in passing word to his brothers.

Dinah even accepted a cup of coffee from the communal pot and, if it was far stronger than she was used to and unsweetened, she made no complaint. Anymore than she protested at the idea of burning a mark into the calf’s hide. Adam had known plenty of American women, even some locals, who protested at the barbarity and came close to fainting. Dinah was made of sterner stuff. It struck Adam that in many ways she had a touch of barbarity herself. Born in the wrong time and, despite her looks, in the wrong sex so many of the things that she did, frowned on in a woman were admired in a man.

Eventually Adam moved forward, putting his arm round her waist, “It’s a long drive back to town and if we are going to make it in daylight we’d better be going.”

José didn’t fail to notice how she almost melted her body back against Adam, but for the moment he was just envious, wishing he stood in Adam’s shoes. Dinah offered her hand, thanking him for a pleasant visit and José bowed very correctly kissing her hand and hoping she enjoyed her stay in Nevada.

Adam helped her into the buggy and as he did so he could see two horsemen approaching. Cochise was unmistakable as was the large form of his big brother. Adam had no wish to see them and he didn’t wait just nodding to José, “I’ll be seeing you once the herd’s in the high pasture.” He set the buggy horse in motion and drove out while his brothers were still a couple of hundred yards from the camp.

Neither Hoss nor Joe has missed Adam’s presence or failed to notice he was with a totally strange woman. From a distance they could only get a vague impression but she certainly looked very attractive. Hoss stopped Joe going after his brother, “Hold on let’s see what José has to say first.”

“He’s supposed to be completing the ordering of supplies and those three contracts.”

“Yeah I know but we promised Pa not to make it any worse while he’s in Sacramento.”

Joe accepted that and dismounted in the camp. Hoss saw to both their horses while Joe poured out coffee. José came over to join them and to satisfy his curiosity. “I didn’t know Adam had visitors from England staying.”

Joe looked up at that, “He hasn’t.”

“Got one anyway and a real beauty Lady Dinah Marchbrook. Only just left.”

“Yeah we saw them.” Joe hesitated, “What’s she like José, I haven’t met her yet.”

“Brunette, very lovely.” José’s hands marked out the curves. “Friendly too, not too hoity-toity to talk to a mere cowboy. Inquisitive wanted to know all about the place.” He laughed, “Carole had better look out, I think she’s taken quite a liking to Adam.”

Hoss came over to hear that and he put a warning hand on Joe’s shoulder seeing him tense up. Luckily some men brought in three calves and José went back to work. Joe looked up at his big brother, concern very obvious on his face. Hoss said, “José didn’t mean anything by it, he knows how close Adam and Carole are. He was only funning.”

“What’s the expression Hoss? Many a true word spoken in jest.” Joe said bitterly.

“I can’t believe that.”

“Well what the hell is he doing? First some French whore and now this one, as though Carole and the kids don’t exist. Ignoring the work piling up. It just ain’t like him.”
Hoss had no answer he still had his own fears but with Sue’s certainty he was wrong he could keep them locked away. If Joe shared them he didn’t want to know and if Joe didn’t he wouldn’t burden his brother.

Joe tried to settle to work but he couldn’t seem to concentrate and at supper he only picked at his food before pushing the plate away. Hoss hadn’t missed that and he put his own down. “Joe you ain’t no use to anyone like this, go see Adam talk to him. I’ll take care of things here.”

“I’ve already tried that, didn’t get anywhere.”

“So have I, he just lost his temper with me, but here you have one specific thing. Who is this girl and what was he doing out here? You might as well try you ain’t gonna sleep tonight if you don’t.”

Joe acknowledged the sense in that and he got to his feet saddled Cochise and headed home, leaving Hoss to finish his own food and Joe’s. Joe decided to head straight for town, whatever José thought he knew this one wasn’t staying on the Ponderosa, so presumably she was staying at one of the hotels in town. He was guessing it would be the biggest and fanciest, so he’d start at the International.

Adam had taken Dinah back to the hotel and he accepted an invitation to join her for coffee in her room. She was far too canny to push him too far too soon and made no attempt to keep him there for the evening. She made it very clear that she had had a wonderful day and would like to see more of the area.  Adam hesitated, “I have some work to do that can’t be put off, but if you like I’m sure I could arrange a trip down one of the mines, maybe on Monday.”

”That would be fascinating.”

“Well I’ll have to check but why not join me for dinner on Monday anyway?”

“With delight.”

Adam finished his coffee and got to his feet but she rose too and almost without conscious thought, on his part at least, she was in his arms, pressing her body against him, kissing him a long passionate kiss. She broke away, “Just a small thank you Adam, for a wonderful day.”
Adam was all too conscious of her heaving bosom and he let his gaze rest frankly on it for just a moment too long before kissing her hand, “Until Monday.” Adam walked slowly out of the hotel knowing that it was far too early to hope to collect Steve’s papers from Jess so with an inward sigh Adam headed for the Bucket O’Blood. Even though he’d taken the bait it was far too early to stop work on his new reputation and anyway he might be able to use it later to gain time to think.

In the saloon he ordered a brandy and told Don to live the bottle. Almost at once he was greeted boisterously by four poker players. They were men who wouldn’t have dared approach this, the most remote of the Cartwrights, a few weeks back but now greeted him almost as a bosom buddy. Adam sighed again once this was over he might find it a lot harder to lose these hangers on than it had been to acquire them. Mentally he pinched himself, now it was beginning to work was not the time to become careless. He headed over to join them at the poker table with every sign of eagerness.

Joe reached town some time after Adam and his first stop was the International Hotel. He couldn’t think of any clever way to find out what he wanted to know so he asked the desk clerk Potts out right. They had known each other a long time but even so, despite the fact that he never liked Potts, Joe wasn’t prepared for the knowing leer that went with the answer. “Sure do and if you’ve a message from yer brother she’s sitting just inside the door having dinner.” Potts licked his lips, “Alone tonight, sure have to admire Adam’s taste, she’s a real beauty.”

Joe would dearly have loved to smash his fist into that knowing face but he knew that would just make maters worse. “No I just wanted to check I had the right hotel. My sister-in-law has an invitation for her.”

“I bet she has, to go to hell!” Potts cackled.

Joe did his best to look as though it didn’t matter, “Don’t be ridiculous, we have mutual friends in London.”

Potts wasn’t going to let Joe off that easy, he was enjoying seeing the high n’ mighty Cartwrights fall.  “If they all look like her ain’t no wonder yer brother’s always so keen to go to England.”

Joe decided that he was only making matters worse and he turned on his heel. He couldn’t resist a glance in at the dining room and there was only one woman on her own who could possibly be Lady Dinah. He had to admit to himself that José hadn’t been wrong when he described her. She was very lovely, a superb figure and even from the door Joe was aware of the almost physical aura of sensuality around her.

Joe turned away and went down to the Palace, ordering a whisky for once, needing to wash away the nasty taste in his mouth that talking to Potts had left. At least Adam wasn’t with her now and his next job must be to find his brother. He had just decided to check the livery stable to see if Blackie was there when he saw Dan coming in. Not wanting to talk to the reporter, Joe drained his glass and walked out just nodding to acknowledge Dan’s hello. Dan took in the empty glass and hoped that whatever was wrong with Adam wasn’t catching; he couldn’t face two of them snubbing him.

Almost the first thing Joe saw as he went into the stables was Adam’s black stallion and if he was in town so was Adam. From all he’d heard the most likely place seemed to be the Bucket O’Blood so Joe headed down there. Looking over the batwings he could see his brother in a poker game at a table near the back of the saloon. Joe pushed his way in determined to speak to Adam.

Don McBride was quick to notice Joe coming in. He had known Joe for many years; Joe’s first wife had been under his care before her marriage. It was very obvious to Don that Joe wasn’t in a good mood and he saw Joe’s gaze settle on his eldest brother. The last thing Don wanted was the brothers coming to blows in his place and with Adam’s precarious hold on his temper recently, that seemed all too likely.  Don moved swiftly to prevent it, coming out from behind his bar, he moved over to Joe “Good to see you boy it’s been too long, come have a drink.”

Don led Joe over to the bar, “What will you have Joe, beer or whisky?” To his relief he saw Joe relax a little and even grin appreciation of Don’s quick move, knowing the reasons for it. “Just a beer Don and you can stop worrying I’m only waiting for Adam, not about to start trouble.”
“On the house Joe.”

Joe settled down with his beer at one of the tables watching his brother. Slowly he moved over to lean against the wall and watch the poker game. Adam had noticed Joe the minute he came in and hadn’t missed Don’s move. He didn’t need two guesses to know why his brother was there but Joe could wait. The longer he had to wait the worse his temper would be and the easier to con him. To all outsiders Adam was totally oblivious of Joe’s presence, although Joe knew very well that his brother was aware of his every move. Joe knew that he was pushing his luck approaching Adam in his current mood and he was prepared to wait until his brother was ready to leave rather than make it any worse.

Adam was soon cursing his brother; well aware that Joe was watching him closely he had actually to drink the brandies he ordered. Sleight of hand to spill the drinks was usually easy but not with his little brother’s eagle eye on him. He didn’t order quite as many as he had got into the habit of getting, but he didn’t dare change his habits too drastically.

With a lot on his mind Adam wasn’t paying very much attention to the poker game but as so often recently his luck was in. Although he lost more pots than he won, nearly all the big ones came his way. Joe watched puzzled, Adam had always been good at poker, often winning that little extra to finance something special on their trips away. Normally he became totally absorbed and thoroughly enjoyed it, although only playing for a couple of hours. Now when he was spending more and more time playing, his façade of enjoyment wasn’t sufficient to fool his brother. Joe knew his brother wasn’t really involved in the game, if anything he looked bored. Yet as the evening wore on Adam continued playing, just demanding another bottle of bandy, having knocked over and spilt the last quarter of the one he had.

Joe still spinning out his second beer would dearly have loved to force his bother to leave, to tell him he’d had more than enough and to stop making a fool of himself but he couldn’t do it. That was for private discussion not here in a crowded saloon. On the other hand he decided he didn’t have to stay and watch any longer and he drained his beer, pushing his way out of the saloon.

Adam was relieved to see him go, Joe had forced him to drink far more than he wanted and h still had to go and collect the papers from Jess. He didn’t realize, although he wouldn’t have been surprised to learn, that Joe had only gone as far as the livery stable. He had stalled Cochise next to Blackie and now piled himself some straw against the side of the stall and proceeded to make himself as comfortable as possible while he waited for his brother to collect Blackie.

Adam didn’t want anyone associating his movements with his brother’s so he forced himself to sit on for another half an hour before an opportunity arose to pull out. It had been a high biding hand and Adam won it with a full house jacks over threes. He scooped the pot up, “That’s my lot for tonight fellas but I’ll be back give you a chance for revenge.” He grinned and turned expansively to Don sending the bottle of brandy flying. It was only about half empty but virtually all of that was on the floor where the rest now fell. Adam laughed, it didn’t matter and he passed Don $50 to buy drinks all round before weaving his way a little uncertainly down the street.

Not all of the weaving was an act although Adam wasn’t as drunk as he was pretending, he was by no means sober. He went into the stable and was rather clumsily saddling Blackie when he became aware of Joe getting to his feet. With a trip to Jess’ before he could head home for bed Joe was the last person he wanted hanging around and there was a real feeling of anger in his voice as he said, “Oh God you still hanging around.”

“We need to talk Adam.”

“I thought you’d already read me your lecture. I’m going home, come or not as you like.”
Adam mounted and began to force Blackie through the streets, still crowded even after midnight on a Saturday.

Joe quickly tightened Cochise’s cinch and followed, he had enough sense not to try and force Adam to listen in the middle of the busy street but as they got out onto their own road, he pulled up alongside. “You’re going to have to listen to me sooner or later.” It was like talking to a brick wall Adam totally ignored him but Joe had waited all evening and he wasn’t about to give up now, just staying close to his brother.

Eventually Adam reined up, the turnoff he was taking for Jess’ house was less than a mile ahead and it would save time if he could get rid of Joe now rather than ride home, pretend to go in and have to come out again later. He was more than a little drunk and wanted his bed but he was ready for his little brother. “Alright Joe, it’s late and I’m tired, have your say and get it over.”

“What were you doing out at the branding camp today?”

“Either you saw me or José told you, so you know what I was doing.”

“You were supposed to be finishing those contracts and arranging supplies.”

“The contracts are finished and the girls re making themselves useful arranging supplies.”

That shocked Joe, “You mean you pushed your work onto Nita and the others.”

“Mainly my own wife and she’s not moaning.”

“I’m surprised you even remember you have a wife and you’re never there to know how she feels.”

Adam tensed up at that and Blackie danced away slightly reacting to his master’s mood, “Don’t push your luck too far Little Joe. I put up with a hell of a lot from you because you are my kid brother but there are limits.”

“You put up with a lot from me!” Joe said in outrage, “You’re the one who barely has a polite word for anyone except any attractive woman who catches your eye.”

“Oh now we come to it. Just because I treated myself to a few hours break and showed a visitor a little of our countryside, you find it necessary to chase me to town and lecture me.”

“Some visitor!”

“Lady Dinah is very charming and I knew her cousin at Cambridge, It does no harm to be polite to visitors.”

“Then why not invite her out to meet your wife? First it’s that French whore you took to dinner, now this one. What the hell is wrong with you Adam? I thought you loved Carole.   All these women have to offer is good looks and availability; you never used to chase whores.”

“Watch your tongue Joe.”

“Look I care for you and I hate seeing you make a fool of yourself like these expensive dinners for a whore. You can buy them for a few dollars if that’s what you need.”

“Lady Dinah is a charming intelligent woman.”

“Adam see sense.” Joe pleaded “She’s a whore not worth Carole’s little finger.”

“How dare you, you’ve never even met the lady.” Adam moved Blackie closer, anger clear on his face.

Joe ignored the anger, “She’s using you and the whole town is laughing, Adam Cartwright involved with a whore. English and extravagant yes, but a whore.”

Adam, more drunk than he realized and unable to counter his brother’s accurate comments reacted rather than thought and he lashed out. He caught Joe accurately on the side of his chin with the left handed punch and he had enough weight behind it to knock Joe out. Joe fell heavily from Cochise and lay unconscious on the ground. Adam quickly dismounted and with an order to Blackie to stand he ran round to his brother. He felt for Joe’s pulse but it was good and strong. Adam sat back on his haunches once he’d checked his brother’s inert body, no broken bones and Joe was already beginning to stir slightly. Joe would be bruised and maybe stiff but he wasn’t badly hurt.

Adam decided that Joe would be alright and Cochise wouldn’t leave his master so his own best plan was to get away now and head for Jess’. He hated leaving his brother unconscious but with Joe not seriously hurt maybe it would work out for the best, building on the reputation he’d established. It was an almost physical effort to pull himself away from Joe but once he’d remounted he pushed Blackie into a lope wanting to see Jess and get home.

Jess was still up waiting for him but at nearly 2 a.m. the bunkhouse was in darkness so Adam walked Blackie in and left him in the barn. Jess had coffee ready for him and Adam was glad of that. “Sorry to be so late Jess and I’m rather drunk.”

Jess took his elbow and gently forced him into the nearest chair. “So I see and practically exhausted as well. Drink your coffee and try and relax.”

Adam was so tired that he was cold and he cupped both hands round the mug. Jess saw the slight bruising on the knuckles of his left hand and touched it gently, ‘What have you been hitting?” He didn’t expect that question to produce the look of near despair that it did but it was quickly explained as Adam said, “Not what but who, I hit Joe.”

Jess knew that his friend had half expected to come to blows with his youngest brother at some stage but not this early in the game. Knowing how close Adam and Joe were he could see how it had upset Adam and decided his friend might be better for talking “When Adam?”
“Less than half an hour ago. Joe saw me with Dinah; I took her out to the branding camp, on purpose to stir things up. I didn’t actually talk to Hoss or Joe but they were riding in as we left and José must have filled them in. Anyway Joe followed me into town. I kept him hanging around for ages, thought I’d out waited him but he was in the stable, waiting with Blackie. We argued on the way home.” Adam broke off sipping his coffee, staring into the cup his thoughts obviously unpleasant.

Jess went and fetched more coffee his back carefully turned, he said “Go on Adam.”

“Joe said, what is perfectly true that I’ve been making a fool of myself, that the whole town is laughing at me, caught by a high class whore. I know it’s true, it’s what I want but I can’t explain that to Joe and I couldn’t argue against him, so I hit him.”

Adam nursed his left hand as Jess turned in some surprise. “I only hit him once caught him by surprise but he was out cold. He fell from Cochise but as far as I could see he was just bruised.” Adam got to his feet and went over to the window, too restless to settle and unable to face even such a good friend as Jess. “I left him Jess. Unconscious on the ground. Cochise was with him and he was beginning to stir but I left him.”

Jess went swiftly over to him and gripped his shoulders. “Come on take it easy. Joe’s doubtless back home by now being fussed over by Nita.”

“Yeah, anyway I’ll ride back that way make sure he’s okay. What really worries me Jess, I didn’t plan it. I just lost my temper.”

“Take it easy will you. You said it yourself you’re drunk. Anyway you were always planning to force Joe into a fight.”

“But I didn’t, I forced myself into one.”

“Adam stop being so hard on yourself, its hell of a job you’ve taken on and you’re under a strain, not surprising you blow up occasionally. Once Joe knows everything he’ll understand you know he will.”

Adam rested his aching head against the window. “I’m alright Jess just very tired and as you said I’m drunk. Let’s get to business and then I’ll go home. I need Carole and my bed.”
Jess saw the sense in that, “Steve Fallon came by at suppertime. He seems a nice guy, very concerned about you and the whole family. He’s also got his head screwed on and won’t drop any hints to anyone else.” Jess went over to the desk and brought out a large packet of papers. “He left these for you and said that if you were in the Bucket O’Blood tomorrow about 4 p.m. he’d come find you.”

“Your suggestion?”

“Yeah, seemed easiest if he found you, so I told him that you’d been using the Bucket recently.”

Thanks Jess that will be the least noticeable way to do it and gives me a chance to read this lot.”

“I think you’d better go and get some sleep old son or you won’t be fit to take in anything. Do you want me to ride back with you?”

“No need Jess. You have already done far more than I have any right to ask.”

Jess shook his head, “Don’t be stupid Adam. You know I’ll do anything I can and at the end I’ll still be deep in your debt.”
“Rubbish.”

“Well don’t you talk nonsense then. We’re friends and as you once said, that’s all that needs to be said.”

Adam was warmed by Jess’ insistence on helping and collecting the papers he headed back to Blackie. He mounted stiffly and walked his stallion out only pressing the horse once well away from the bunkhouse, He headed back the long way round just to make sure that Joe wasn’t still there, knowing that he wouldn’t sleep unless he did. Joe was long gone but just to be sure Adam checked that Cochise was in his stable before taking Blackie in and stabling him. He promised his horse a better grooming in the morning but for now he was too tired and drunk, everything was too much bother.

Carole had intended waiting up but she had had a very long day, with Anne teething and fractious and she had been determined to complete the work Adam had had to leave her. She had left the door open but she was fast asleep and looked so peaceful that Adam wouldn’t risk disturbing her. He went through to the spare room and too tired to even bother undressing he lay down and was asleep almost instantly.

Carole was downstairs and the children had finished breakfast when Adam came down the next morning, still heavy headed, a distinct hangover. Carole managed to shush the kids and let him have his coffee in peace. Adam couldn’t face food and he took his refill into the study and began to work through the thick bundles of papers Steve had left for him. Steve had got copies of both the newspaper accounts and the verbatim court records from the San Diego case. He had even managed to make a copy of the land grant under which the claim had been made and a detailed physical description of it. Adam was very impressed, it gave him exactly what he needed; he couldn’t have done better himself. There was some additional information from San Diego, other land judgments made by the same judge were noted plus notes on all the judgments he’d made which had been overturned by higher courts with the reasons. Steve obviously hadn’t found any other claims under land grants in San Diego but he had details of three in Santa Fé. One was authenticated back in 1850 and the other two thrown out and again he had details including physical descriptions. Adam didn’t have time to do more than read through everything quickly once. He made a list of points to check with Steve but there weren’t very many, more a general chat. Steve had done an excellent job, knowing enough law from the years as Federal Marshall to know what was important.

Carole placated the children and slipped into join Adam with fresh coffee late in the morning, “You look tired darling.”

“Yeah well you’ll hear all about it no doubt.” Adam pulled her down on his lap burying his face against her hair for a moment and then told her exactly what had happened the previous day, culminating in his blow to Joe. Carole could see just how much that upset and worried him and she did her best to reassure him. She had actually seen Joe early that morning before he was even awake and Joe had seemed fine greeting her as always. Adam was relieved to hear his brother was alright, although he had been fairly sure there wouldn’t be any physical harm. It was leaving Joe that really hurt but with Carole’s support he was able to hide his feelings even from her and relaxed a little. He was better able to recheck his notes once more before heading for town to see Steve.

Joe hadn’t been out for very long when he came round to find Cochise nuzzling him. For a minute stiff and sore Joe lay still wondering what on earth had happened. Slowly as his head cleared his memory came back and Joe pulled himself to his feet leaning against Cochise, hardly believing what he did remember. He could see Adam hitting him. He had been pushing hard and although Adam hardly ever hit his brothers it had happened when they were younger, albeit hardly ever with a closed fist, but he found it virtually impossible to believe that his brother would leave him alone unconscious. He rested his head against Cochise trying for the millionth time to work out what was wrong with his brother. Eventually he mounted up and headed home. He was stiff and tired but he felt he had failed and that really hurt. Yet again he’d failed abysmally to get through to Adam.

Nita was surprised to see him back, she could see that he was tired and had a severe headache, a clear bruise on his jaw where Adam hit him. Joe didn’t want to talk and she quickly recognized that and didn’t push him. Joe was glad to soak in a hot bath and then head for bed. He couldn’t bring himself to tell Nita what had happened. He didn’t want her to think badly of his brother, even when Adam was behaving badly.

Nita went along with his reticence and just made the most of his unexpected presence. She gave him a good breakfast and was able to send him off looking considerably more cheerful than when he got home.

Joe needed to talk to someone and although he couldn’t tell his own wife he was eager to talk to Hoss. He reached the branding camp mid-morning and it didn’t take much to persuade Hoss to take a break for coffee and cookies, provided by Nita.

Hoss could see from the expression on Joe’s face that something was wrong and the brothers moved well away from the main camp onto a small knoll with their coffee. Hoss hadn’t missed the bruised slightly swollen jaw that his younger brother was toting. He gestured at it, “Who you been fighting Joe, looks as though you lost.”

“That’s what I want to tell you. Adam hit me.”

“I think you’d better fill me in on everything.” Hoss glared at his little brother, “We promised Pa not to make matters worse.”

Joe shook his head, “I know and I guess I pushed too hard. I lost my temper and so did Adam.”

“Maybe you’d better start at the beginning little brother.”

Joe did exactly that and told his brother everything that had happened since he left the previous day, finishing with “I came round and realized that Adam had just ridden off and left me there, unconscious and alone.” He sighed heavily, “It wasn’t him hitting me that really hurt. It’s happened before and from his point of view I guess I was asking for it, but leaving me…. I found that hard to believe.”

Hoss got to his feet finding it almost as impossible to believe, “You sure Joe, I mean if you were stunned?”

“I’m sure Hoss. I don’t like it one bit better than you do, but he left me.”

Hoss swallowed hard and almost without wanting to he asked tentatively, “Joe do you think Adam’s sick?”

 Joe didn’t understand, “What do you mean?”
“I was up by the Lake. I saw Ross and Delphine’s graves and got to thinking. Ross’ character changed.”

Joe protested “No!”

“It would explain why he’s behaving so strangely.”

Joe got to his feet, facing his brother angrily, “Hoss I don’t believe it. Its nonsense, noone has a better brain than Adam.”

Hoss wouldn’t look at his brother staring at his feet, “Mental illness don’t take account of whether you’re an idiot or a genius.”

“How do you know?”

“I’ve bin doin’ some reading. Hell Joe I don’t like the idea one bit better than you do but I can’t explain his behaviour any other way. God I have prayed that I’m wrong. but if I’m not then we’d have to face that fact before we can help him.”

Joe bit his lip and shook his head, “Even if, there ain’t noway to help him. All Adam could do for Ross was kill him.”

For a few minutes both brothers were lost in their own thoughts not able to find any words for what they feared. They had moved closer together for mutual consolation and stood staring out over their beloved ranch. It was a superb view from where they were, up towards the lake, but scared and worried about Adam neither of them took in what they were seeing.
Eventually Joe asked, “Have you said anything about this to anyone else?”

“Just Sue. I didn’t ever mean to say anything to you. If you’d thought the same the confirmation would have scared me and if you hadn’t…. Well I’m sorry, now you’ll sit and worry same as me.”

Joe punched him gently, “I’ve been doing that anyway, trying to make sense of it ever since Adam cut himself off from me. What did Sue think?”

Hoss’ face lightened slightly “She said I was wrong that she’d seen plenty of mental illness, all too much, and Adam doesn’t show the same signs. Something about empty eyes.”

“Why don’t you believe her Hoss? She’s the nurse and we’ve trusted her often before.”

“I only wish I could Joe but I can’t get it out of my mind and Adam’s acting so odd….”

“I told you I’ve been thinking. I can remember two occasions when he was a bit like this. The only other time he cut himself off was after that cave-in. You remember when he and Philip were trapped in the Ophir?” Hoss nodded and Joe went on, “Okay stupid question, neither of us will ever forget the hours it took to dig them out and you were right in there. After that he was so scared of the mine, knowing someone would have to go back down and set that new shoring that for a few days he cut himself off. You remember he couldn’t put the light off in his room, brought the mine back too vividly.”

“He wouldn’t let Pa or us in, just wanted to be left alone.”

“That’s right and he cut his mind off too, guess he didn’t want anyone to sense his fear.”
“So what is he scared of now?”

“I don’t know Hoss; maybe he’s physically ill and doesn’t want us to know.”

“No I don’t buy that, even if it explains why he’s cut himself off, don’t explain all the drinking and gambling. Anyways he looks okay, mite tired but that ain’t surprising when he’s never home.”

“I know Hoss I didn’t say I had any answers.”

“You said two occasions, what was the second?”

“Maybe it’s more to the point. When he was engaged to Laura and just before he got engaged, he was pretty bad-tempered and erratic in his behaviour. Like I was when I first met Marie, torn in two ways wanting one thing and yet commonsense telling me it wouldn’t work, would cause trouble.”

Hoss thought about that for a few minutes, he could remember all too clearly just how moody both his brothers had been and they had both lashed out verbally at him. Joe was right in some ways Adam’s behaviour had been similar, even to drinking too much and more frequent trips to town. “What are you suggesting Joe?”

“I’m not really sure. Maybe he’s just restless again, wanting to get away, go East even Europe who knows. This time he can’t, he’s tied, wife and family dependent on him. What he wants pulling him one way, conscience and responsibility the other.”

Hoss thought about that “I suppose its a possibility but he ain’t exactly showing much sign of acting responsibly at the moment. Guess that’s what scares me most. Adam’s always taken more than his share, blamed himself when I can’t even see why and yet now ….” Hoss broke off not wanting to put his thoughts into words again but Joe knew exactly what he meant. He gripped Hoss’ arm forcing his brother to look at him. “I’m with Sue, I can’t believe that he’s mentally ill. This will pass, a few weeks and whatever is upsetting him he’ll work it out and come back to normal.”

“I sure hope so.”

“I’m positive Hoss. All we can do is bear with him now, try to do as Pa asked and not make matters worse, not that it’s easy!” he said with feeling, touching his sore jaw. “Then when Adam settles down, show him he’s still our brother. This will become as remote and unimportant as the rows Pa and I had over Marie. At the time I thought we’d never get over those but we did in a matter of weeks.”

Hoss cold only hope his brother was right, he felt a little better for talking it over. At least Joe had, while taking him seriously, not agreed with the possibility he dreaded. Hoss tried to accept that both his wife and brother were right and at least pushed his fear to the back of his mind. He went to finish his coffee only to find it was stone cold and poured it away, suggesting it was time they got back to work.

Adam reached town just after 2 p.m. He had several routine jobs to do, both for the ranch and for himself. He was just finishing up the last of them when he bumped into Marcy in the General Store. Adam was on edge but he had known her for years and it would possibly arouse attention if he didn’t stop to talk for a minute or two as he normally would. It quickly became clear to Adam that she had engineered the meeting deliberately, but so cleverly that at first even he hadn’t been sure. Marcy said nothing more than she would normally do, a general conversation of acquaintances, not friends, which anyone could have overheard. Only Adam was aware that she had slipped a note into his pocket and after a couple of minutes they separated to get on with their own business, just one of a myriad of encounters which took place every day in Virginia City. Adam wasn’t sure if he was being watched or not. He was sure he wasn’t being followed but on previous form Hearst probably had several men just keeping an eye on places he frequented and taking news of his movements back.
Adam completed his list of jobs and headed down to the Bucket O’Blood, one place that he was sure Hearst would be watching. On the way he managed, unobtrusively, to transfer the note Marcy had given him from his pocket into the mass of routine papers he was carrying. He went into the bar and got himself a beer and a brandy chaser before going over to a table in the corner to begin the job of sorting and putting the papers away in his saddlebag, making occasional notes of follow up jobs that he needed to do. He made it very clear that he wasn’t enjoying the task and acquaintances knew him well enough to steer clear. Left alone in a carefully selected position, where noone could actually overlook the papers he was reading, Adam was able to check Marcy’s note. It was short and not very informative “Imperative meet, sewing 3 p.m. Monday M.”

Adam couldn’t help worrying, scared one of the women who were taking such risks for him was in trouble. Something had to be wrong for Marcy to risk putting anything in writing. He was mainly concerned about Margaret. Her determination to get a copy of the grant under which they were claiming had scared him from the beginning. If she had been caught, not only was she in danger but Hearst might suspect the truth and revert to his original plans. There was nothing Adam could do until the following day when he presumed he was to meet them at Jess’. If he tried to contact then he would only risk putting them in more danger so he had to wait.

Adam destroyed the note, shredding it up, and tried to concentrate on the routine work but without very much success. He didn’t have very long to wait before Steve came into the bar and with every assumption of surprise and delight came over to Adam. “I thought I’d miss you this trip, didn’t have time to come out to the Ponderosa.”

The friends shook hands and Adam got two more beers and sat down to chat. Adam saw one of the strangers move closer and guessed he was Hearst’s man. For a long time the old friends chatted in general as they usually did and eventually Adam saw the man who had been listening head back to the bar for more beer. Dropping his voice slightly Adam said, “Okay let’s get to business, just keep your voice down and keep it light.”

Steve nodded and Adam went on, “First I collected everything last night and I don’t know how to thank you. You have done a superb job everything I need.”

“No need for any thanks, I was more than happy to help. Pay back just a little of what I owe you.””

“You don’t owe me anything.”

“That’s a matter of opinion. Without your help I’d have been dead years ago. I wouldn’t have made that transition from gunman to lawman.”

“I didn’t do anything.”

“Don’t underestimate what you did Adam. I never have. There are few people willing to look beyond a fast gun.”
“I was one of them too.” Adam said a little ruefully.

“Hope you still are, this just might end up needing one.”

Adam shook his head, “I doubt it for once I think I’ll be able to be a lawyer only.”

Steve sipped his beer, “I’m sure you have questions, let’s get them over and we can relax, stop playing a role and just enjoy ourselves.”

Adam agreed with that and settled back in his chair as he cross questioned Steve on all the details he’d found to query. He had no need of his notes and concentrating hard he was confident he could get all Steve’s answers down on paper later. The main details he needed were on the physical look of the documents that Steve had copied for him. Steve had learnt to be observant as a lawman and under expert questioning he remembered more details than he would have thought possible. It didn’t take very long as he had written a very full report. Half an hour later Adam put his last question, “Anything at all you saw that you didn’t bother writing down but niggled at the time, however minor?”

“Just one thing, all of those grants had seals. Three had very old ones, Spanish I guess all dated 1810 or earlier. Two of them were very similar but the third, on a grant that was thrown out, was much clearer, sorta cut deeper, far sharper. Difficult to be sure but I got the feeling someone had made a much later copy.”

“Thanks. I’ll see if I can get hold of an original for comparison when we come to court.” Adam changed the subject totally and the friends spent a pleasant evening reminiscing.
Adam was still on edge, worried about the women and about Joe, so he decided to do some of the preliminary work, before heading home rather than upsetting Carole. Several of the law books that he needed had already been ordered and Dick had some of them. Along with the detailed documents that Steve and Rey had provided and the documents he had collected personally from Sacramento, there was plenty for Adam to get on with. He knew he needed to immerse himself in the relevant law so that nothing that was sprung on him would come as a surprise and he’d have the answers at his fingertips. Most of his expertise was in mining and contract law but he had done work on land deeds to ensure the Ponderosa was secure. Until this arose he had been confident that noone could touch the Ponderosa, that their deeds were totally secure, having spent long hours looking for loopholes long before he qualified.
Adam found the study of law soothing, if occasionally rather frustrating as he struggled with the archaic language, which many lawyers seemed to feel was the only way to safeguard their true intentions.

Dick had been pleased to see him and provided coffee and a good light plus the books Adam needed, including several that Adam hadn’t even realized had arrived yet. The parcels of papers that had already arrived were safely stored in the trunk and once Dick had disinterred them he took himself to bed knowing Adam wanted peace and quiet to work. Adam did check around outside quietly but Dick had done a good of blacking out and soundproofing the room so he went in more at ease.

Once the door was locked Adam was able to concentrate, firstly on noting everything Steve had said and then on the law. For the next three hours he worked steadily making his own notes of all the main points covered in the law books he had so far. The extent of jurisdiction of the States compared to the Federal Government and the specific arrangements made after the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo to ratify and confirm existing rights or not as the case might be. He was expecting more detail from Oliver once all the precedents had been checked but by 2 a.m. he was confident he at least knew the broad outlines of the relevant laws and had some idea where he needed more details. Eventually Adam got to his feet and stretched, he was stiff and tired after sitting for so long in one place. The even breathing from behind the curtain had been testimony for a long time that Dick could sleep through both a bright light and the rustle of papers in his room.

Adam carefully locked everything away and slipped out into the alley. He went down to the Palace for a brandy, glad of the warmth of the spirit to fight his tiredness before walking openly into the stables to collect Blackie and head home. There were enough saloons in town for people to assume he’d been somewhere else in the hours that he’d been missing. But he had to face the fact that if he was going to do it regularly it would be sensible to ride a slightly less conspicuous horse than his black stallion. For tonight, tired out, he was grateful to half doze and allow his horse to take him home.

Carole had managed a sleep earlier in the evening and she was still up, worried about Adam wondering whether he was still upset over his interactions with his youngest brother the previous night. She was relieved when he came in to find him calm and reasonably cheerful although very obviously tired. She took him straight to bed and half an hour later he was asleep snuggled up against her, but for a long time Carole couldn’t sleep. She prayed over him that he would have the strength of mind to get through the next few weeks without being too badly hurt by those he loved, as he fooled them for their own safety.

Adam was very determined not to worry Carole if he could avoid it and until he heard something definite from Marcy he said nothing about the meeting. He spent the morning at the main house and as Carole already knew that he was dining with Lady Dinah, he let her think he was going straight to town. Adam sent a message to Lady Dinah postponing their trip down the mine for a couple of days but confirming that he would see her for dinner. He left Blackie at the main house taking a bay gelding, which didn’t even have a Ponderosa brand.

Adam took a roundabout route to Jess’ keeping in the woods and out of sight. It took longer but he had set off in plenty of time and at least it didn’t risk causing speculation that might have started if he was found on the main road. Jess was in the barn awaiting his arrival and had already taken all the necessary precautions to ensure he wasn’t seen by any of Jess’ hands. Adam was glad to see his friend for a moment first, wanting warning if there was any real trouble before he faced the women.

Jess knew his friend well enough to read the concern on his face and he smiled reassuringly, “Take it easy Adam, no trouble. Just advanced warning.”

“Who is here?”

“All three of them and Margaret is looking pretty pleased with herself. I’m not sure why, she says she can’t get the grant copy yet.”

“Let’s go see the ladies. How do I ever repay what I owe them Jess?”

“They see it the other way, partial repayment of debts due, so I shouldn’t even try.”

Adam followed Jess inside where Liza hurried over to kiss him and then went to get him coffee. Adam moved on through to the dining room where Marcy, Michelle and Margaret were sitting over coffee. The three women all looked up as he came in and smiled at him. As Adam joined them Margaret looked anxious, “Are you alright Adam? You look very tired.”
“I’ve been working late and I’m sure you have heard how debauched I have been recently.” he smiled at them, “In fact you three with Liza, Jess and my wife are about the only ones who know that I’m not really becoming a drunken gambler with womanizing on the side.”

Marcy took his hand, “Looks to me old friend that it’s taking its toll of you.”

“I won’t say it has been exactly easy, but neither did I expect it to be.”

“I hope I didn’t worry you too much with my note. I knew it was a risk but we all wanted a word with you.” Marcy said anxiously.

Adam smiled “I was a little worried, you all three mean an awful lot to me and I was scared someone had found out about one of you. Seems I was wrong you all look very lovely and untroubled.”

Margaret did her best to reassure him, “We’re fine Adam. Noone will take any notice of us, don’t forget we’re women and as far as Hearst is concerned women are just useful servants or pretty baubles to show off.”

“By the time we’re finished with him he may change his mind.” Adam said with a grin. “Well ladies what news so you have for me this time? I hope it’s not as big a shock as last
time. I’m not sure I’d survive another shock like that.”

Marcy smiled, “I’m just the errand girl. I haven’t got anything else, except the buggy to bring us out.”

Michelle added “And a friend when we’re bored, a go-between when we need one, to say nothing of a source of marvelous teas.”

Marcy smiled affectionately at her; she had become very fond of the French girl and of Margaret over the last few weeks. Michelle went on “I asked Marcy to get word to you. It seemed important at the time.”

“What’s happened now?” Adam asked.

“Well they give up on Suzanne Faure, she is sent home tomorrow. They think you like the English girl more. My husband he is not popular they thought a femme français would do more. Hearst is not pleased, he say if you are so restless without your mistress it should be easy, but for three days you do not see this English woman.”

“What is he thinking of doing?” Adam asked anxiously.

“My husband and the others, they are scared by the violence, argue for more time, but Hearst is not sure. He says a woman like her, two weeks is enough. If she fails to get you in her bed in the next week they think again.”

Adam smiled ruefully, “Sounds as though my decisions are being made for me. I had about decided to go with Lady Dinah, my French is decidedly rusty and I didn’t want the extra strain but I was trying to slow things down for a week or two. Dinah is rather too astute for my liking. Looks like I’d better step up the pace.”

“They feel once she has you in bed she controls you, for the time they need.”
Adam lent forward and taking her hand kissed it. “Bless you Michelle. That warning is just what I need. Now I know how fast I have to act.”

Margaret spoke up, “Adam I was glad I had another chance to speak to you. I’m no lawyer and maybe what I have learnt doesn’t matter but it feels like it might be important.”

Adam sat back and Liza refilled his coffee, “Any information can be useful at this stage Margaret, I am just collecting.”

“Well I can’t get a copy yet. The original is in Denver and won’t be brought out for a couple of weeks. When it does I shall get you a copy.”

“Don’t take any risks Margaret, I shall see it eventually anyway, they’ll have to disclose it before the trial.”

“They know that but it seems it is legal to give you only a shortened version or at least that’s what Hearst’s lawyers say, They can leave out the preamble and some of the other standard bits.”

Adam whistled softly “I suppose that could be argued, thanks for the warning. They’ll hope I’ll base my rebuttal on the missing parts and then be thrown in court when the original is complete.”

Margaret nodded, “Exactly! That’s why I think it’s so important you have an exact copy and I can get it for you without any risks so don’t worry. I always have all Hearst’s most important documents in my care. He feels that noone will look for them in the luggage of a mere female secretary.”

Adam bit his lip, hating to let her take any risks yet knowing how important it was. His feelings were obvious to all of them and Marcy said, “You might as well relax and stop worrying Adam. There’s no way you’ll stop her.”

Adam had to grin, “I’ve no doubt you’re right Marcy! Alright Margaret go ahead but please don’t take any risks. I couldn’t bear it if I save my family from danger by endangering you, any of you.”

Margaret smiled, “Promise Adam no risks.”

“If you do get a chance to look at the original deed, I could do with a detailed physical description of the seal on it. Seems they may vary, fakes slightly different from the authentic ones.”

“Sure. I may even be able to sneak it away for you to have a look yourself.” she grinned “I’ve already promised no risks.”

Adam had to laugh but then Margaret went on, “The other thing is the one I’m not sure about. They were talking about the legal strategy they intended to use. The area of the grant covers more than just the Ponderosa, not your west shore lands but nearly everything this side of Lake Tahoe. It also includes a small ranch to the south of the Ponderosa. I haven’t been able to find out the name of the ranch yet but I’m still trying. They intend to claim that one too, but in a separate case before the same court. They want to have that one heard first and intend to pay very high compensation for the other ranch. Hearst says that it’s in financial trouble and will be more than eager to settle for compensation way above its nominal selling price. Does that make any difference?”

Adam was taken aback by that news and he got to his feet too restless to settle. He paced around for a minute or two, assessing the news. It had obviously come as a shock to him and Jess, very aware of his moods, offered a brandy. Adam accepted gratefully and stood sipping it, staring unseeingly out of the window. Slowly he became aware that Jess and all four women were watching him in silence, very worried. He turned round putting the glass down,
“Sorry everyone it’s alright.”

Jess asked “How big a problem is it Adam?”

“If I hadn’t known in advance it could have beaten us. The court takes an uncontested case and almost inevitably finds for the plaintiff. That gets the grant in as an accepted document. Then I come along and ask the court to reverse itself. No Judge likes doing that, so whatever I have the Judge is inevitably biased against it.”

Jess nodded that made sense but the question remained, what effect would it have now that Adam knew. He asked his friend and Adam smiled, “Margaret has saved us again. There’s two ways depending which ranch is involved. There are several possibilities. If it’s a friend than we can just ask for the two cases to be considered as one, the grant is the same. If not then I can ask the court for an injunction to make them take all contested cases first. The Judge will have to grant it or any decision he makes will be thrown out by a higher court. Trouble is I wouldn’t have thought of doing it as a matter of course and the Judge doesn’t have to act unless one or other side requests it.” Adam moved round behind Margaret and kissed her forehead, “Thank you again Margaret that was vital information. Bless you.”

As Adam relaxed everyone else did and he spent another hour in companionable gossip picking up a few more scraps of information but nothing as important as he already had. Then it was time for him to go and change before picking up Lady Dinah, while Marcy drove the others back to the hotel.

Adam found Dinah almost ready and he led her down to the dining room but this time he drew the curtains round the small booth. He found the time passed very quickly, she had plenty of questions about his beloved ranch. He had to be a little careful the way he answered. He couldn’t hide his love of the ranch but he tried to leave the impression that some of the responsibilities and work which were piled on him came hard and that as they mounted, there were times when he would dearly have loved a break. He was reasonably effective in doing so and Dinah took more or less what he wanted from the conversation.
Slowly their conversation became more general and Adam told her that he had arranged to take her down the California on Wednesday afternoon and then perhaps she would join him for dinner again. Dinah was a little hesitant and Adam smiled “Do you have something else planned instead? Tell me I can only say no.”

“It was just that there is a performance of Hamlet at the theatre, I’d like to see it.”

“Why didn’t you say? I’ll get tickets.”

“I wasn’t sure if you could or even if you’d want to, it’s rather public.”

“I do what I want in this town. I’m often the subject if gossip even when I do nothing and I’m a long way past worrying about it.”

“Your wife?”

Adam pokered up at that, “and said curtly, “My wife is my business. I don’t discuss her or our relationship with anyone, not even my own family.”

Lady Dinah backed off at that, she respected him for his stance but it confirmed her opinion that things were seriously wrong in Adam’s marriage. She hadn’t liked Hearst’s very clear orders that she must move faster and get him in her bed but she needed the money to keep her independence and so had agreed. As the evening went on she began to think the task wouldn’t be beyond her by the deadline Hearst had set. She was still a little on edge, bearing in minds the warnings she had been given of just how clever Adam was.

It was just before eleven when Adam took her back to her room and in the privacy of the room she was rather more forward than she had been. She made it fairly clear, although trying not to be too blatant, that she was available to him. Adam wasn’t ready to go the whole way yet, although from Michelle’s warning he would have to soon. He needed a little more time but he was prepared to hold her and kiss her as she obviously wanted. Adam made no move to go further and she could feel the tension in him and backed off a little.
Dinah settled down next to him, sitting very close, knowing that he was aware of her body she let it talk for her and allowed Adam to lead the conversation back to safer generalities. Adam was aware of her body but for now he felt no desire at all and just prayed that when it came to the point he would be able to do what was expected of him. He found it hard to stay alert and the last hour seemed forever as he tried to keep things light and yet show he was attracted in a way he didn’t feel. By 1 a.m. he felt he’d been there long enough to keep everybody gossiping and happy. He kissed her, “I must go. I have an early meeting in the morning.”

Dinah made no attempt to stop him and Adam pulled her close and kissed her as passionately as he could. It seemed to satisfy her and Adam promised to be back to see her on Wednesday. He finally got out and headed for the stable. He slipped in the back and as he had ridden the unbranded gelding, he risked going into Dick’s room confident noone would know when he actually left. He felt unclean and unsettled and he wanted to work for a while to clear his head before going home to Carole. He was finding it harder than he had expected to carry through the role he had chosen. He worked for a couple of hours and the routine and concentration needed to make sense of the legal papers calmed him. Eventually tired out he headed home and slipped into bed next to his wife.

Carole stirred and moved closer into his arms. The desire which all Dinah’s efforts hadn’t kindled flared instantly and Carole moved even closer. She was fully awake now and just grateful that he was totally hers. Afterwards Adam told her a little of what he’d done and learnt today. He tried not to worry her but Carole knew him too well and read between the lines. She didn’t push him and eventually he fell asleep in her arms.

Adam had to get up early but Carole had calmed him and he had slept well even though he’d only had a few hours and he felt much better. There was an important meeting of the Bank of Nevada directors and Adam was due to represent his family. He had a dual role to play, firstly to ensure that nothing was done that was against his family’s ideals and best interests and secondly he had to achieve that in a way which would lead those present to pass word that he wasn’t at his best. He was on edge as he rode into town but noone would have guessed as he headed into the Palace for a brandy prior to the meeting. He ordered three, drinking enough to make his breath smell while most of it went over him or on the floor. He was just a little late for the meeting and took his seat, barely acknowledging greetings from the rest of the board. His bad temper and the smell of alcohol were both noted by the other men as Adam had known they would be.

There was little either contentious or particularly relevant to the Ponderosa in the first few items on the agenda and Adam just sat apparently barely even listening. Unlike his normal copious note taking, to ensure that later there could be no dispute, he just occasionally jotted down a figure. In fact as he wasn’t taking notes he was concentrating very hard, confident in his ability to make a detailed summary later. It was the last two items which affected them most, one to curb small loans and prevent renewal where there had been any late payment of interest, was a continuing fight. The Cartwrights were the only ones interested in the small loans where a lot of time and effort went in for minimal return. Adam was confident that as so often before he would get his own way once everyone had had their ritual moan, the way he had written the constitution practically ensured that. The last item could, in theory, hit them more directly. It was a purely technical change but would have the effect of withdrawing low cost loan on timber cutting, terming them high risk agricultural projects rather than lower risk industrial projects. Adam was prepared to argue that one strenuously, the crop was already grown and couldn’t be affected by weather so the risk was not the same as a wheat field. He wasn’t sure that most of the directors realized what a small change in wording would mean in practical terms. He very much doubted that either Jim Fair or John MacKay realized that it would put up the cost of timber to their mines. Once they did he expected their support. The meeting went pretty well as Adam had expected and if he gained his way by rather more direct, on occasion even rude, speeches rather than his normal carefully reasoned approach, at least he got his own way. It had the desired side effect of getting them talking and he redoubled that effect by refusing to stop for the social drinks afterwards, instead he went back to the International.

Adam was in luck Dinah was just back from shopping and very willing to join him for an impromptu buggy ride and picnic. Adam drove down the main ‘C’ street and was pleased to find his timing was immaculate, Most of the other directors were just leaving the board meeting and none of them missed him driving past with the beautiful brunette. While most of the men didn’t blame him and were even jealous at his success, that wouldn’t stop them passing the news round that he’d been grumpy and eager to get away, only to turn cheerful as he went out with his mistress.

Adam took her up to the shores of Lake Washoe and they lazed in the sun with the picnic the hotel had willingly provided, while champagne cooled in a stream flowing into the lake. Adam kept it light and in a rather zany mood, glad the board meeting was over, soon had her laughing. Shortly before they left Adam initiated the lovemaking for the first time. She was very willing and molded her body to his, relieved that he had not only come to see her unexpectedly but seemed to want her. The previous night after he left she had begun to doubt her own attractions. Adam pulled away eventually and helped her up, claiming a family meeting which he had to attend, making it very clear that he’d infinitely rather not bother.

In fact as was normal after a board meeting his brothers would expect a report, probably informally at Adam’s house with Ben away in Sacramento. Adam was going along with routine in making the report, wanting a chance to check on other development and reassess priorities, but he had already notified both Hoss and Joe that the meeting would be at the main house. Short notes, abrupt, carried to them by one of the hands, not at all the normal way Adam contacted them. It made sense to have a meeting before Joe went with the herd to the high pasture, branding practically complete, while Hoss went to the west shore to set up the lumber camp there. Johnny with a lot of help from the other experienced hands was going to handle the other camp but this year nearly half the lumber they had contracted for was being provided from the west shore.
Hoss and Joe had ridden home a couple of hours earlier, both taking the chance of a couple of hours with wife and child. Hoss in particular was going to be a long way away for most of the next couple of months. Sue had spent the morning with Carole completing some paperwork ordering spare equipment for the mills. Nita had joined them for part of the time but it didn’t matter whether the blonde was there or not Carole was very remote. She was perfectly calm and polite but she treated the other two girls almost as strangers, only anything like her normal self with her children. When Sue told her husband Hoss remembered Carole’s reputation as an ice maiden when she first came to Virginia City. Then she was reacting because she had been hurt by a man, now it was his own brother who was hurting her. Hoss had been jealous of Adam’s perfect marriage for a while; it had seemed to take his brother away from the tight knit family group he’d grown up with. Gradually Hoss had realized his mistake and despite all the troubles over the last few years he had never been happier than he was now in his extended family. He had thought all the others were too and couldn’t understand what Adam wanted that was worth giving up so much.

As the brothers walked over to the main house, taking the time to talk, Hoss said as much to Joe. Joe had had a similar report from Nita and had spared half an hour to go and see Carole.
He’d got the same reaction, although the kids had been delighted to see him, Carole had seemed to have to make an effort to even be polite and obviously wanted him to go. The brothers were both on edge, wondering what sort of mood Adam would be in and that was a feeling they weren’t used to and didn’t like.

Hoss and Joe arrived first and Hop Sing brought them coffee, telling them firmly that food would be ready in an hour. They had expected that but couldn’t really settle as they awaited Adam. Hoss sat down to check over his plans for the lumber camp but Joe was far too restless to settle and was pacing around, checking the window every few minutes. “Where is he? He said 4.30 and it’s nearly 5 now.”

“Won’t help put him in a good mood if you’re fussing at him ‘cos he’s late.’

“I know but that meeting must have finished hours ago unless something is seriously wrong.”

“He may have had other business in town.”Hoss said mildly but Joe took it the wrong way.
“That English whore!” he said bitterly.

Hoss got up at that and went over to his little brother, forcing Joe to look at him “As Pa would say, let’s keep this in the realm of discussion. He could have been called in at the mines or John Marye’s, anyone of a thousand thing could and often do hold him up in town.”
Joe sighed heavily, “Yeah I know Hoss. I’m sorry I’ll try not to push but it’s hard. I’m just not used to watching what I say to Adam.”

Hoss put his arm round his younger brother’s shoulders, “I know but we did promise Pa and he’s probably right, least said soonest mended.”

“Yeah but I’d dearly like to knock some sense into him.”

“Get in line! Anyways he’s too damned good at looking after himself; just end up with us all bruised and sore without having any effect.”

Joe had to accept the likelihood of that and then some forty minutes late Adam appeared not hurrying his black stallion. By the time Adam came in it wasn’t worth starting before the meal. Joe had just poured coffee for himself and Hoss but when he offered it to Adam his brother shook his head going over to pour himself a large brandy, taking in his brothers’ disapproving looks he said “ I‘ve earnt it, boring meetings and blasted paperwork.”

Hoss asked, “Anything serious to hold you up. We expected you a bit earlier.”

With a distinct touch of defiance Adam grinned, “Yeah a beautiful lady. We went for a picnic after the meeting. I’m sure you’ll hear, the whole town seems to have nothing better to do than gossip about me, with every encouragement from my family!”

Adam downed his brandy and poured another one as Hoss put a restraining hand out to Joe pleading with him silently to say nothing despite the provocation.

Hop Sing saved Hoss for the moment bustling in to lay the table and call the brothers to dinner. The meal was eaten virtually in silence, Joe barely touching his food but his brothers ate well despite the atmosphere. Even Hop Sing was aware of the tension and collected the plates without comment; even Joe’s where his favourite stew was barely touched.

Once the table was cleared Adam got the various papers from his saddle bags, the written notes of the bank meeting now completed and the real reason for his late arrival. He passed the notes first to Joe and then Hoss. Adam was businesslike dealing with each item in turn and his brothers concurred in most cases with what he wanted. The calf tally had been very high and the ice cutting had gone on longer than normal although just about finished now, just three high ponds still usable giving the usual lucrative return on the flume at this time of year. Joe had one sour note, fences had been cut and timber rustlers had been at work down on the southernmost edge of the ranch. Adam took detailed notes and seemed almost his normal self as he pressed for details, in particular whose land adjoined them at the spot where the incursion had been made. Joe told them all he knew and said that he’d sent Stevens with three men to keep watch. They were under strict orders to take no risks, if they couldn’t deal with it or felt that they might not be able to then they were to send for help. Adam agreed with what Joe had done but he couldn’t help wondering if this tied in, maybe with the other ranch that they were planning on claiming. It could be Troy’s ides  to cause trouble between the two ranches in advance of the writ being served, thus ensuring that they wouldn’t act in tandem. He wished he had more information but until he did he could only make doubly sure that no wild accusations were tossed around at any of their neighbours. He was most insistent on that point rather to Joe’s and Hoss’ surprise, dwelling on it for a time far out of proportion to its importance as far as they could see.

Adam’s attention to the rest of the current business was perfunctory, with half his mind on what Joe had said. He was quite prepared to leave his brothers to cope. He had more than enough on his plate, even though his brothers weren’t ware of it and felt he was getting off lightly. Twice Joe bit back angry comments and once halfway through a complaint, Hoss’ nudge in the ribs stopped him. To make it worse he didn’t think Adam had even hard the first half. By a little after nine the brothers had run over all the current work and allocated jobs for the next three weeks. Adam got up and stretched poured himself a brandy, downing it in one “It’s still early I think I’ll go for a ride.” He turned and went out without so much as a goodbye and Joe said furiously, “Back to town no doubt, either to that whore or a poker table.”

Hoss watched his brother leave in the direction of town and had no doubt that Joe was right. He didn’t like the thought but he couldn’t stop his eldest brother doing what he wanted. He packed up his papers, “Come on Joe maybe Adam has lost his appreciation of wife and home but that don’t mean we can’t enjoy it.” Joe agreed and the brothers headed home to their respective wives.
Adam pushed hard on the way to town but he left Blackie in a small barn back of Roy’s house and slipped into Dick’s room for four hours hard work. He finally emerged moved Blackie to the street and let himself be seen round the saloon for half an hour acting a lot more drunk than he was before finally heading home to bed.

Adam hadn’t forgotten his promise to take Lady Dinah down the California, Most important visitors to Virginia City went down one of the main mines but it was rare for a woman to go
down or to even express a wish to. In many of the mines the miners worked in near if not complete nudity and that in itself prevented ‘decent’ women from approaching. However the California adopted the opposite approach, soaking up the sweat in a coverall and on occasion allowed women down. Their different approach seemed to pay off in less sickness amongst the men. Adam had spoken to Jim Fair at the bank and gained a begrudging permission for him to take Dinah down. As a large stockholder Jim knew Adam couldn’t be prevented but he didn’t like women in the mine on principle.

Adam collected Dinah as he had arranged shortly after 3 p.m. and with her on his arm eased his way carefully through the crowded streets to the California. Dinah was intrigued by the steam emanating from the main shaft and she was more than a little alarmed to hear that they had to go down through it. Jim was waiting for him, more polite than was his wont, because he wanted a reciprocal favour from Adam. He wanted Adam to deal with a query from the Government that he didn’t really understand.

There was only one changing room but it was deserted at this time of day. Adam stood guard while Di changed into the closest size of overalls that they could find. The overalls were almost too small, normally shapeless they fought a ‘just’ winning battle to contain her magnificent breasts, even though too big elsewhere. Adam and Jim both eyed her appreciatively before going in to change themselves.

Adam led the way into the lift, warning her to be ready for the give of the spring as they came to a stop and then took her down to the first working level some 500 feet under the Earth. Even here it was very hot but Dinah seemed oblivious of the heat as Adam described just what was going on and the reason for everything she could see. Dinah was most impressed not only by the extent of his knowledge but also by the number of men he seemed to know personally, often stopping for a word about family or housing, never lost for a name. Adam could put on an act for family and friends, be rude and arrogant to colleagues where explanations and apologies could be made later but not here amongst the working miners. He was almost a hero to them after all his efforts in the aftermath of the fire and for the first time Dinah saw him just being himself, no act at all. Adam realized that but he couldn’t change it and anyway didn’t know just how false an impression he had been achieving even for her. Dinah had found Adam very attractive physically from the start and that was always important to her but now she found herself actually liking him too. That was rare for Dinah, who didn’t think much of the male sex in general, however much she enjoyed their company.

After touring the 500 foot level Adam took her right down to the 1800 foot level, so very different with its square set shoring and far increased heat. Dinah was fascinated both by
the forest of timber and the vein so clearly visible in the walls of the tunnel. Jim had been annoyed at staying in the background and now with Adam rather more tense, hating these deep levels he took over. Still wanting that favour from Adam, he made it very clear just how involved Adam had been in the design and installation of the shoring and to Adam’s disgust also regaled Dinah with the story of Adam and Hoss being trapped in the mine a couple of years earlier. Adam didn’t want her prying into his personal life; the only way he could cope was to keep her separated from his family. Luckily Dinah knew men well enough to recognize his near anger and deftly changed the subject. She claimed that she had seen enough and needed to get out of the overpowering heat and back to the surface. Adam was never loathe to leave a mine and readily agreed.

Adam stood guard again while she showered and changed. Then he swiftly changed while Jim kept her amused. Dinah was more curious about Adam than she had been now that she’d seen an example of his work and seen the attitude of the miners to him. Jim was hardly the most sensitive observer but he could appreciate her looks and it was easy to answer her questions about Adam. She only had a few minutes but got the impression of a very different man from the one Hearst had described. Jim respected Adam and was prepared to praise his ability, something he did for very few people. Adam came out to join them and was surprised by Jim’s friendly attitude. He assumed that it was due to Dinah’s good looks and approachability but soon found he had underestimated Jim. Jim insisted that they come back to his office for coffee and once there the reason became very clear. Adam found himself landed with a long questionnaire and detailed report required by the Federal Mint in Washington. He cursed Jim but had to admit that he was probably the most suitable person to complete it, too much law for the miners and too much mining knowledge and geology for the lawyers.

As he escorted Dinah back to the hotel Adam made it clear that the job he had just been handed so casually would take him anywhere from 15 to 20 hours of concentrated work. He sighed, “Jim Fair is all too prone to passing these jobs over, from the mines and from the Bank, but my family is even worse. They get involved in all sorts of things but when it comes down to it, the legal and financial work all comes my way. I get very tired of it sometimes.”

Dinah was very sympathetic but Adam didn’t push it, leaving her to assume she understood his general disaffection with life on the Ponderosa, He took her for afternoon tea and over it answered all the question about the mines and the history of mining in Virginia City that she hadn’t found time for earlier.

Pleading a tight deadline on the job that Jim had given him, which was no more than the truth Adam excused himself and went over to the Bank to work in one of the small conference rooms. The job wasn’t quite as hard as he’d led her to believe and three hours hard work completed it apart from a few figures. Most of the facts and figures Adam had at his fingertips. Not wanting anyone to know that he was at his efficient best Adam packed things away, going over his notes from the law books for another hour and then just after seven packed everything away, pronouncing that he would have to finish it the following day. He had a cast iron excuse to go to the livery stable as he collected his evening clothes. He had booked a room at one of the smaller hotels so that he had somewhere to shave and change. Then he was ready to go and collect Dinah and take her to the theatre as he had promised.

Adam hadn’t just got seats, he was ready to brazen it out, almost seeking publicity, knowing he had to bring things to a head before Hearst panicked and moved against his family. To ensure that everyone knew he had booked the main box overlooking the stage and in full view of everyone in the audience.  It had taken him considerable effort to say nothing of bribery to get the box from James McCormick a newly made gold millionaire who had bought it to impress his wife. Luckily neither McCormick nor his wife were educated and Shakespeare bored them so a healthy profit to spend n something more interesting was sufficient. They had already had all the prestige they could from the box and although it was fun to dress up and parade around in fine clothes and bow from the best box, that had begun to pall when allied to the tedium of sitting through interminable performances.
Dinah was most impressed as Adam led her into the box. She had half expected him to ‘forget’ not wanting the publicity but she appreciated his determination to do what he wanted and ignore everyone lese. She was also impressed by his knowledge of the play. In fact it wasn’t a very good performance and both of them had seen far better, Adam told her a little about his long time friendship with Edwin Booth, who made a far better Hamlet than the one on the stage.

Certainly the audience seemed less interested in the play on the stage than Adam’s presence in the box, alone with someone other than his wife. Adam was all too aware of the attention he was provoking but noone watching him could have guessed. He appeared totally at his ease enjoying the play and the company of a beautiful woman.

After the play finished Adam joined Dinah in her room for a late supper and a nightcap. This time he initiated the love making, going a little further caressing her than he had before but still unable to bring himself to take her to bed. After an hour or so he pulled away and with an obvious excuse he left abruptly. Dinah was sure that she nearly had him, just the last twinges of conscience causing him to leave. She was well satisfied, confident that he’d be back.

Adam was relieved to get away; he was finding it far harder than he had expected to do what was required. He felt dirty and very restless and rode up to the Lake on the way home. He stood staring down at the tiny grave of his premature daughter and slowly he regained his certainty. Whatever he had to do was worthwhile if it prevented any of the other children joining her by the Lake. Eventually he headed home tired out, needing his own bed and the comfort of his wife,

The following day Adam had a routine trip to make, up to the mill, the main lumber camp and the mine, He had to pay the men, collect paperwork so he could assess bonuses and check on the current progress. It was his normal trip for this time of the year and he was grateful for the routine, it gave him time to think get the law he’d been studying sorted in his own mind before he progressed further. He had taken some notes with him to check but most of the time didn’t even need them He was going to be out over night but hoped to be back reasonably early on Friday before he headed back to town.

Even out on the ranch it was obvious that much of the gossip had reached the men, even the small community of miners. There wasn’t anyone with the nerve to speak directly to Adam, about it but he could read the speculation in their eyes. The only person to say anything directly was Jack Catfish at the sawmill. He was an old friend but even he trod very carefully and only spoke indirectly. “Adam we are long time friends. You are usually wise but this path you tread, it does not seem to bring you happiness. You are tired, pay a heavy price, maybe time to think again?”

Adam put his hand on his friend’s shoulder, “I have my reasons Jack. Everything will work out in time.”

“But Adam ….”

“I listened because we are long time friends but no more, don’t interfere.”

Jack was a fatalist, an Indian, although he had been at the ranch so long everyone, including himself, had long forgotten that fact. He had had his say and now he would let Adam go his own way. Adam felt more at peace with his old friend sitting in silence by the campfire than he had for weeks.
Adam got back early on Friday morning and for a while he had his work cut out placating his children until eventually they wandered off on ploys of their own. Despite pushing hard to complete his jobs and going very short of sleep Adam looked far more rested and relaxed than he had been, His tour of the ranch had done him good and Carole was relieved to see it. At first she just kissed him and got coffee allowing him to enjoy the twins and Marie but as the kids left she refilled his cup and collected a letter that had come for him from Sacramento. She hadn’t opened it but from the postmark thought that it might be important. It had come with a mass of business mail and shouldn’t have attracted any attention. Carole wasn’t sure why she felt it was important, maybe it was the feminine handwriting. Adam didn’t recognize the handwriting but didn’t waste time speculating, he opened the letter and turned straight to the signature. “Its from Liza Campbell, she said she would send work if she heard anything.” He scanned the letter rapidly, it wasn’t very long but Liza had managed to obtain one vital piece of information. She let Adam know that the Judge who had sat in San Diego finding for the land grant would be sitting in Sacramento for two weeks or so from June 11th. The man Judge Harris was a well known Federal judge and Adam believed him to be a fair man but he was very strong on historical precedent. He would stay within the letter of the law but would be amore affected than most by claims of prior right. Liza also warned Adam that Judge Harris had been notified of an important land use case which would be brought and had been asked for priority for the case. So far no details had been lodged and none were needed legally until a fortnight before the start of the legal session but Liza thought it was far too big a coincidence for it to be any other case. Judge Harris had granted priority to the lawyer requesting it a man called Almon Frary. Liza closed with a promise to send more news if she heard anything.

Adam read it twice and then passed it over to Carole. “At least we know how long we can expect to have to keep this up, only just over seven weeks.”

Carole finished the letter and looked up anxiously, “Can we get all the information you need in that time?”

“No way to be sure my love but our friends have bought us a heck of a lot longer than the two weeks the law demands. I’ve already got more than I could have hoped for in what ten days say from when the writ will be served here. Jamie will find anything there is in Mexico and I am sure Johnny will get us anything from Europe. So many good friends, we can’t lose.”

“Do you know this Almon Frary?”

Adam shook his head, “Its possible Dick might, anyway I will get someone to check him out but he’ll only be a front man. It will be some big name lawyer, maybe James Pratt; he handles a lot of Hearst’s legal work or Chauncy Nicolls who won the San Diego case.” Adam sat back and thought hard, “I can think of two other land law specialists, John McAlister and Thomas de Long but they may bring in someone from the East or Denver. It doesn’t really matter; it’s the evidence we can find that will tip the court one way or the other.”

Carole came over and kissed him, “Noone is a better lawyer than you my love.”

“Flattering if not exactly true but in this case the outcome means more to me than to any paid lawyer so I’ll hold my own whoever it is.” Adam got to his feet, “Pleasant as this is I’d better go to town or I might lose my reputation.”

“Don’t forget Pa is due back today.”
“I hadn’t. I’d like to avoid him if I can but it really doesn’t make a lot of difference.” Adam pulled her close “Easy my love, we know it’s only an act and we’re well on the way now. I know it will get worse but we only have to survive until June we can cope.”

Carole snuggled close to him, “Of course we can. I love you my darling and I know whatever happens your heart is mine and mine alone.”

Adam kissed her hard and then with an almost physical effort he pulled away, “I’ll be late darling, don’t wait up for me.”

Again he rode the bay gelding and slipped into town unnoticed. Dick was in the barn and took the horse giving Adam a chance to warn him that he would be using Dick’s room during the afternoon. Adam had some routine chores to do and started by heading down to the telegraph office. He had decided to get Steve to check out Frary for him and sent a coded telegram asking for his help again. The telegraph was well used to coded telegrams and made no query about the jumbled letters. Adam blessed the foresight which had led Steve to suggest taking a code with him in case there was anything else he could do to help.

Adam had just finished and was about to head for the bank when he heard his name called from across the street. Turning he quickly spotted John Chance and went over to welcome his friend back. John was pleased with life his mission very successful. He had left all the books and papers that Oliver Wendall Holmes had given him at Jess’ as they had agreed. Jess had concurred in his wish to see Adam and pass over a few tidbits verbally. They were known as friends and there was no reason not to meet. Adam had hoped John would be back soon but hadn’t known exactly how long it would take him. Delighted to see John, Adam bore him off to the Washoe Club where they could talk in peace and for once stuck to his more normal beer. Even in the couple of hours John had been in town before going to see Jess, he had heard plenty of gossip. He had cross-questioned Jess closely and learnt more details so he was quite relieved to see Adam looking a lot better than he had feared.

Adam managed to book one of the small dining rooms and having arranged for a meal to be brought, he shut the door and relaxed with his friend. John quickly filled him in on all the documents and books he’d brought and passed over both verbal and written messages from Oliver and his wife Fanny. Oliver had had his staff working flat out checking every legal precedent throughout the United States but he had refused to submit a bill. Time enough to worry about that when Adam won his case. Adam was delighted knowing that noone was more thorough than Oliver and he would have the time to familiarize himself with everything. John said, “Jess says not to bother coming out to the ranch, he’s collecting stores this afternoon and he will deliver everything to Dick.”

Adam was touched at that thought, it eliminated another risk. Slowly he relaxed as they chatted more generally but as he did so some of the strain and tiredness began to show. John went and collected two more beers and when he brought them back Adam was rubbing the bridge of his nose, “You look mighty tired Adam.”

“Not too much time for sleep, I’ve been busy. It’s hardly the first time.”

“That’s not all. I know you too well old friend, I know why you thin k its important to put yourself at odds with your family but I also know how much they mean to you.”

“No lectures John.” Adam said lightly. “It’s only for a few weeks I heard today the case will come up early in June.”

“You’ll win.” John said with certainty.

“With so much help and so many good friends I can’t fail. Now let’s change the subject, did you get a chance to look around Washington?”

John accepted that Adam didn’t want to talk and allowed Adam to have his way, spending a pleasant couple of hours passing on news of mutual friends that he’d met up with back East.
John had to get back to work, Bill had been carrying the work in his absence, very willingly, but it was a lot for one man. He made Adam promise to let them know if there was anything more they could do and took a copy of the code in case. In any event he wanted to know when the case came up; they would come along and offer moral support. Adam gave his word and tried once more to do the impossible and tell John just how grateful he was. John clapped him on the back and shrugged it off. He owed Adam far more than a couple of weeks of his time, a long standing friendship and current wealth thanks to Adam’s generosity.

Adam went out with him and then headed back to his routine chores. He intended finishing those and then spending time with his books before taking Dinah out for dinner hoping to get away fairly early and avoid another nightcap. His plans were thrown into total disarray as he saw his father striding down the street towards him. Adam stopped and waited, Ben’s whole demeanour proved that he wanted to talk and wasn’t going to be ignored.

Ben had arrived back in town about an hour earlier, determined to find out what was being said in Virginia City, all too many garbled rumours flying around in Sacramento. He had managed to catch Roy in his office and made it clear that he wasn’t leaving until his old friend filled him in. Roy didn’t really want to tell Ben but knew him well enough to know he had no choice. Ben was all too aware that hardly anything went on in town that the sheriff didn’t know about.

Roy poured coffee for them both and then went to stand over by the window. “You ain’t gonna like it Ben. I don’t know what’s got into that boy of yours but he sure ain’t acting like himself.”

“I know that much Roy and I only wish I knew why but I need to know what’s been going on. All sorts of rumours flying round Sacramento. You know better than most how much is true.”

“Too much.” Roy said with a sigh and then giving way he sat down and told Ben just how much Adam had been seen with Lady Dinah, his drinking, gambling and the snubs he’d handed out to old friends. Even details of his odd behaviour at the board meeting had reached Roy and he passed them all on. He finished up, “Several of us, Dan, Philip, me a few others have tried to talk to him Ben but we can’t get near him. I jest don’t understand, up until a few weeks back I’d have said there weren’t noone in this town more reliable than Adam, or anyone I had a greater respect fer, but now ….” He shook his head, sighing deeply.
Ben straightened his shoulders, “I think I need a stiff drink and then I’m going to find that son of mine and whether he likes it or not he’s going to tell me just what is so wrong!”
Roy wished him luck and watched him leave with considerable relief. It was an hour he’d hated and hoped never to have to go through again.

Ben hadn’t even got as far as the saloon when he saw Adam across the street and headed straight over to his son. Adam tried to greet him as though there was nothing out of the ordinary between them but Ben pushed aside his enquiries on how things had gone in Sacramento. “Come down to Beth’s old house. Roy has lent me the key. It’s time we talked.”
Anything was better than a discussion in the middle of the street and Adam agreed without argument, well aware he had to let his father have his say. They headed up to Beth’s house in virtual silence, the expression on both their faces sufficient to stop acquaintances even wishing them good day.

Ben let himself in and went through to the living room. Knowing Roy wouldn’t mind he poured two brandies, passing one to his eldest son. Adam took it and went over to the window, staring out, his back to his father. Ben sighed inwardly but it had to be done and he went over forcing his son to turn and face him. ”Adam I know you are a grown man and I accept you have the right to a private life of your own. But that doesn’t change the fact that you are my son and I love you very much. I can’t let you go on the way you are without trying to help.”

“I’m perfectly alright Pa.”

“That’s just not true Adam. You have done your best over these last weeks to alienate most of your friends, Men who like and respect you, find they are snubbed or ignored. That’s just a minor part, you have a wife and family that I believed meant the whole world to you. I still do, you have had more happiness with them in the last five years than most men find in a lifetime. Why do you risk it Adam? What has this English Lady Dinah to offer you that Carole can’t?”

“I see, you’ve been listening to gossip.” Adam allowed his anger to show but Ben kept hold of his son’s shoulders preventing him from turning away. Ben said, “It’s virtually impossible to avoid it Adam. Even in Sacramento. I had to know what was being said so I gave Roy a bad hour when I arrived home.”

“So I’ve been showing an English visitor round, it’s hardly the first time. I knew her cousin Charles at university.”

“Sure you’ve had visitors but they have stayed with us and Carole has helped to entertain them. You may not want to take me into your confidence Adam but don’t treat me like a fool.”

Adam looked up and met his father’s gaze for the first time. “Please Pa just let me work it out.”

“You said that weeks ago and I have tried to do as you asked but you’re not getting anywhere on your own. Sometimes it helps just to talk things out and you are still my son. Much as I love Carole and the children, you come first. Anything you said wouldn’t go any further.”

Adam could see the compassion, the worry and the love in his father’s eyes and he would have done a lot to remove that worry but not at the expense of putting his father in an impossible position with his other sons. This was one burden he had shouldered alone and must carry for the next few weeks. “Pa I know you mean well but you can’t help. Not now, not in this.”

“Adam please listen to me. I know I can’t force you to talk but you can’t go on like this. You’ve argued with most of your friends and both your brothers. Even more you risk something infinitely precious. Carole loves you very much, be careful before you risk all she has to give for anything else. I know you Adam and you are loyal in friendship and especially in love. You can’t find happiness if you aren’t true to your own principles.”
“Sometimes things happen Pa. Noone wants them to but they do. We can’t prevent them but have to go along, doing the best we can. In time things pass.”

“What happens to Carole and your children while you are carried along by the tide of events?”

“She will understand in time.”

“I don’t understand Adam, All of this, these last weeks you are not acting like yourself at all. Please think about what you are doing. I won’t pester you, I’ve had my say, all I ask if think hard. Is anything worth the harm and upset you’re causing?”

Adam pulled away from his father “I hear you Pa.”

Ben could see from the closed expression on his son’s face that he hadn’t got through to Adam but he’d said that he wouldn’t keep pushing. He just couldn’t understand why his son was behaving like this, Adam had never done it before. He could only pray that in time Adam would come down to normal and hoped that his son wouldn’t pay too heavy a penalty for his erratic behaviour. He was sure that Carole still loved his son but she would only put up with so much humiliation. She had proved herself principled and strong willed long before she even met Adam.

Adam could see the confusion and pain he was causing but he very carefully kept himself withdrawn. “If you have finished Pa I have work to do and just so you don’t have to hear from gossip I am taking Lady Dinah to dinner this evening.”

Ben had no answer to that and stood back letting Adam leave. Adam spent some time at the bank and then slipped away to the livery stable to spend three hours checking just what Oliver had sent him. He could only do a preliminary check in the time but he was very impressed at the thoroughness and order of the papers. Everything was clearly explained, its relevance noted and detailed summaries as well as verbatim copies attached. He was ready to go and get changed at seven, a basket of flowers carrying his dinner invitation had already been sent to Dinah by messenger.

Dinah was waiting for him but she had ordered the meal delivered to her suite. Adam couldn’t argue as she claimed that he looked tired and she thought he would appreciate a quiet meal, He pretended to be delighted and settled down to enjoy the meal. He spun it out as long as he could knowing what she was expecting, He couldn’t face it not after his meeting with his father and rather against his will he told her a little about it, She was quick to see it worried him and decided against trying to push him. She was sure her best chance of holding him for the agreed two months was to allow him to dictate the pace, whatever Hearst said. For now he was still coming to terms with his own conscience, she was used to that, such men made the best lovers. That he would come round in time she had no doubt, confident in her own attractiveness.

Adam had a much more pleasant evening that he’d expected on finding she’d ordered the meal and when he rose to go soon after eleven, she made no attempt to stop him. Thankful for her easy companionship Adam pulled her close and kissed her more passionately than he had so far and with an easier conscience. Dinah watched him go well satisfied that she had made the right decision.

Adam slipped back into the stable and spent three more hours working over the law books. He was tempted to work through but tired out decided to head home and think through all he’d read first, let it fit into place before he went into any more detail. In fact he was so tired he was barely awake enough to direct his horse home and fell into the spare room bed about 3.30 a.m. not even bothering to undress, just loosening his belt and pulling his boots off.
Carole found him the following morning and she just closed the door and left him to sleep, keeping the children away. Sure that if he couldn’t even be bothered undressing Adam must have been desperately tired and needed his sleep. She had seen Ben the previous evening and knew him well enough to know that not only had he seen Adam but that he’d argued with his son. She kept herself to herself and faced with her withdrawn attitude Ben couldn’t pry, He made it clear that he’d be available anytime if she wanted to talk or if there was anything he could do to help but went no further. Carole thanked him but as it was obvious that she wasn’t going to take him up on the offer, at least for now, Ben went on home.

At home he found the detailed reports all his sons had left on the current position. Joe was on the way up to the high pasture with the cattle and expected to be back on Tuesday, while Hoss was over on the west shore. His big son wouldn’t be back even for a long weekend for another couple of weeks. Although all his sons were away and, despite Adam’s behaviour, it seemed that the affairs of the ranch were doing well, good reports and ahead of schedule on all fronts.

 When he’d finished going through the papers Ben poured himself a brandy and then called Hop Sing in. he asked his old friend what he had heard, what was going in between his sons. Hop Sing knew all too well the bad feeling between Adam on one side and Hoss and Joe on the other but he wouldn’t give any real details. The brothers were still talking, trouble it would pass as it always had before. Ben didn’t press him but he had seen that Hop Sing was worried, however much he tried to hide it. Tired after his journey and the row with Adam, Ben headed for bed although for a long time he was unable to sleep.

Adam was awake just after eight and after a quick breakfast he headed back to town to spend the whole day going through the documents that Oliver had sent him. he made no attempt to see Dinah, only finally emerging near midnight, He went to the Bucket O’Blood and had three large brandies, but wouldn’t be inveigled into a poker game, before heading home.
Adam rode home via the Lake, knowing that he had to act the following night if he was to beat Hearst’s deadline. Looking back he felt that he had taken the idea of sex far too lightly, In the past before he met Carole he had known many women and enjoyed making love on a fairly casual, although not  a one night stand basis. He’d never had to pay for it and didn’t believe that he had ever hurt anyone. At first the thought of making love to another woman hadn’t worried him but as it became more imminent, he found himself doubting his physical ability to carry though something he found increasingly repugnant. If he didn’t all the time and effort the worry and hurt he’d caused would all be wasted so he knew he had no choice. The reasons were as important as ever and he couldn’t put off the final step any longer.

Eventually Adam went on home to Carole and slipped in next to her not wanting to make love just to hold her close and know her love for him. She could feel the tension in but slowly he relaxed and she drifted asleep in his arms. Adam barely slept as he cursed everyone who forced the choice of being unfaithful or risking injury to those he loved on him. He was up early having only dozed and he spent two hours with his children before telling Carole that he wouldn’t be home. She knew what it must mean but made no comment, just holding him close and assuring him that she loved him very much, Adam left hurriedly before he could change his mind. This time he rode his black stallion to town, all his decisions long made.