Summary:  When sheriff Coffee takes a break, his replacement gives the Cartwrights cause for concern
Rating:  Teens  13,550 words

---

Coffee Break

 

Roy Coffee hesitated for the third time as he and his friend Ben Cartwright walked along the sidewalk together. ‘What?’ asked Ben irritably. ‘You’re not going to tell me again that you can’t take this break Roy?  You know that you need it.’

 

Roy nodded. ‘Yes I know,’ he said. ‘Only I don’t feel right about it Ben.

 

‘Nonsense,’ replied Ben firmly. ‘Much and all as you do a wonderful job around here Roy, you still have the right to take a break from your job when you need to.  After all … how long has it been since you’ve had a vacation?’

 

‘To be honest Ben, I can’t remember.  Seems like there’s always something going on around here that stops me taking one.’ Roy looked around as they approached the Stage Office. ‘I sure hope Bert Tanner will settle in okay to the job while I’m away.’

 

‘I’m sure he will,’ Ben assured him. ‘Although we’ll all miss you Roy.  You know as well as I do that Bert Tanner has a reputation for keeping order wherever he’s been and Virginia City shouldn’t really prove to be a huge challenge for him.’

 

Roy nodded. ‘I know,’ he said. ‘It’s just that he don’t know the folks here like I do that’s all.  He’ll need ta deal …’

 

Ben put his hand on his friend’s shoulder. ‘Now you’re starting to sound like an old woman Roy,’ he said. ‘The town will survive without you for a month you know.’

 

Roy gave a short laugh. ‘I know,’ he said. ‘And I must say that I’m looking forward to this month in San Francisco.  Nothing to do except have a good time while I’m there.’  A frown crossed his face momentarily. ‘I just wish that I’d been able to talk to Tanner before I left.  There’s a lot to fill him in on.’

 

‘Roy the man is very experienced,’ said Ben patiently. ‘He’ll be fine and what he doesn’t know, I’m sure there’ll be many people willing to fill him in on … Clem Hawker for a start.  He’ll meet him off the stage tomorrow and get him settled in, you know that.’

 

Roy shrugged. ‘Yeah I know,’ he said. ‘Forgive me Ben, I just can’t help myself I guess.’  He handed his bag up to the stage driver who was seated on top of the coach packing the luggage and then turned to Ben again and held out his hand. ‘Well, good luck with everything old friend. I’ll see you in a month.’

 

Ben shook the sheriff’s hand warmly. ‘You look after yourself Roy,’ he said. ‘And have a great time.  Don’t even think about the job … you’re looking tired and the break will do you good.’ Roy smiled and stepped up into the stagecoach.  

 

Ben waited until it had departed before turning back towards Main Street again and walking back to his horse.  He really hoped that Roy took his advice and had the break that he deserved.  The man worked too hard for Ben’s liking and lately he’d seen the exhaustion in his eyes … one reason why he’d urged his friend to take a vacation.  The job of sheriff in this town was a constant one and even though Roy was so experienced and did such a fine job, there were times when Ben could tell that things got to him.  He really wished that the rest of Town Council would take his advice and hire a deputy for the man, but so far despite Ben’s urging they stood firm in the belief that keeping law and order in the town was a one-man job. 

 

Well, at least no one could argue that Roy was entitled to a vacation and Ben sincerely hoped that it would do him the world of good.  His thoughts lingered on Roy’s replacement for a moment. Bert Tanner came highly recommended and had been available when approached to do the job, so they should be grateful that he was coming.  Still, Ben hoped that nothing untoward would happen while Roy was away, for the man was right about one thing … no one knew the people of the town better than he did and a stranger was bound to take some time to find his feet.  Ben just hoped that nothing would happen while he was doing so.

 

=======

 

‘So did ya see the new Sheriff when you were in town Hoss?’ asked Little Joe a few days later at the supper table. ‘What’s he like?’

 

‘Yeah,’ said Hoss. ‘He was doing his rounds while I was loading supplies.  He looks OK.’

 

‘What do ya mean OK?’ asked Joe. ‘Is that all you can say?’

 

Hoss shrugged. ‘Well what do ya want me ta say?  He’s just a normal looking guy is all.’

 

‘I heard tell that he shot three men up Oregon way,’ said Joe with a light in his eyes. ‘He must be really tough.’

 

‘Joseph that is enough!’ said Ben angrily. ‘I’m sure the man didn’t want to shoot those men … and for your information they were robbing the bank at the time.’

 

Joe sighed. ‘I sure wish that we’d have something exciting happen round here,’ he said. ‘Nothing ever seems ta happen when old Sheriff Coffee’s around. Maybe this new guy will stir things up a bit?’

 

Ben frowned at his youngest son. ‘What a fool thing to say!’ he thundered at him. ‘Now why on earth would you be wishing for things to happen as you put it?  You should just be thankful young man that Sheriff Coffee is experienced enough to stop trouble around here before it starts!’

 

Joe slunk down in his seat and concentrated on his plate. ‘Yes sir,’ he mumbled.

 

‘From the sound of it this Bert Tanner, he’ll keep things in line while Roy’s gone,’ said Adam. ‘He’s experienced enough and we really shouldn’t have any trouble with him in charge.’  He wiped his mouth and put down his napkin. ‘Coming Hoss?’

 

Joe’s head shot up. ‘Where are you two going?’ he demanded.

 

‘None of your business little brother,’ replied Adam. ‘But if you must know we’re off to have a quiet drink or two in the saloon.  It is Saturday night you know.’ Joe looked eagerly at his father and Adam rolled his eyes. ‘Aw come on Pa,’ he said pleadingly. ‘Not tonight!’

 

Joseph has been working just as hard as you two all week,’ replied Ben. ‘I think he deserves a drink or two tonight.’  

 

Joe gave his father a huge grin. ‘Thanks Pa!’ he said happily.

 

‘But Pa …’ said Adam. ‘That means that we’ve got to watch him again!’

 

Joe frowned. ‘I don’t need watching!’ he declared. ‘I can look after myself.’

 

Everyone ignored him. ‘It won’t hurt you both to take your brother,’ said Ben sternly. 

 

‘I can look after myself!’ declared Little Joe again.

 

‘Yeah but it means that we’ve got to leave earlier than we might have if he wasn’t with us,’ said Adam.

 

‘Ain’t no one listening to me?’ asked Joe indignantly.

 

‘Leaving early might be a good thing Adam,’ replied his father. ‘Neither of you would benefit from staying in town late tonight. We’ve got an early start in the morning to Church.’

 

‘I give up!’ said Joe as he slid down in his chair.

 

‘I suppose,’ said Adam. ‘Oh all right then … I guess we can put up with him.  Coming Hoss?’

 

‘Ain’t no one in this family listens to me no how,’ muttered Joe under his breath.

 

‘I’m nearly finished,’ said Hoss. ‘You go and get the horses ready and I’ll be there in a minute Adam.’

 

‘No one would even notice if I wasn’t even here,’ Joe continued to mutter.

 

‘What was that young man?’ asked his father.

 

Joe sat up again. ‘Oh …. so someone does know that I’m here, do they?’ he said sarcastically. ‘It’s news to me.’

 

Ben frowned at him. ‘If you don’t change your tone of voice young man, I might just change my mind about you going into town tonight after all.’

 

‘Are you coming or not?’ asked Adam impatiently from the doorway. ‘Hurry up if you are!’

 

Joe stood up and scowled as he walked towards the open front door. 

 

=======

 

Virginia City on a Saturday night was always bustling with men who had their pockets bulging with their week’s wages.  It was traditionally the night when most cowboys and miners found their way into the saloons or brothels to ease the tensions of the working week and then spent the next day sleeping off the effects of the night before.  

 

As the three Cartwright brothers dismounted from their horses outside the Silver Dollar Saloon, Adam pulled Joe back by the collar and pointed his finger under his brother’s nose. ‘Now I’m warning you before we get in there little brother,’ he said. ‘You get into any trouble in there tonight and you’ll answer to me, understand?’

 

Joe’s eyes widened indignantly. ‘Me get into trouble?  Aw, come on Adam … as if I would!’  He looked over his brother’s shoulder and his eyes widened even further as he noticed one of the many poker games that had already started inside the saloon, a look that wasn’t lost on his brother. 

 

‘And don’t you go getting yourself caught up in any of those poker games,’ he said. ‘I have no intention of trying to explain to Pa tomorrow why you have no money left as usual.’

 

‘It’s my money,’ said Joe as he tried to loosen his brother’s grip. ‘I earned it so I should have the right to spend it where I want!’

 

‘Pa said a couple of drinks for ya and that’s it,’ said Hoss.  ‘You know as well as we do that you’ll only get yaself in over ya head if ya get inta one of them games.’

 

‘And no trying to go upstairs like you did last time,’ warned Adam. ‘I don’t want to have to come up there and to drag you out again.’

 

Joe scowled at his brother. ‘Well if you’d minded ya own business you wouldn’t have had to!’ he said. ‘I was having a right good time with Sadie until you poked your nose into my business!’ He grinned as he remembered. ‘She sure is a good kisser!’

 

Adam rolled his eyes at Hoss who looked somewhat embarrassed at the way the conversation was developing. ‘Yes, well you make sure that you keep it at just kissing.’  He pushed Joe into the Saloon in front of him and looked around. ‘Now get on over there to the bar if you want to get your drinks and remember that I’ll be watching you!’

 

Joe gave his brother another scowl as he adjusted his crumpled clothing and then sauntered over to the bar to greet a couple of his friends who were leaning on it and looking around. ‘Hi,’ he said with a grin. ‘What’s happening fellars?’

 

Adam shook his head and headed for a table in the corner, followed by Hoss. As soon as they’d settled themselves in with a couple of drink Hoss looked around. ‘Pretty full tonight,’ he said.

 

‘Mmm,’ said Adam as he sipped his beer. ‘Seems like everyone has made it in.’ He indicated the bar with his thumb. ‘Jim’s in fine form.’

 

Hoss chuckled as he watched the large man propping himself up at the bar with a bottle of whiskey in one hand and a glass in the other.  He was telling everyone within earshot some story and was chuckling himself as he was telling it.  If it hadn’t been for the bar beside him, Hoss was sure that the man would have fallen over, so unsteady was he on his feet. ‘Nothing new then,’ he said as he took off his hat and sat back in his chair. ‘Good old Jim.  He sure does provide a bit of entertainment, don’t he?’

 

At that moment there was a noise from the table beside them and they turned to see Sam Towers jump to his feet with an indignant look on his face. ‘Who says?’ he shouted. ‘You calling me a liar Brooks?’

 

‘Ain’t now two ways about it,’ snarled the other man. ‘I ain’t playing with a cheat!’

 

Adam winked at Hoss.  It was hard to get through a night in here without someone being called a cheat at some stage in one of the many poker games that were always being played.  The combination of a few drinks and the excitement of the game were usually enough for someone to go off half-cocked.  It helped to keep the place interesting and apart from a couple of chairs that were sometimes broken and then added to the man’s bill, there was no harm done.  In between the argument next to them and Jim’s shouting from the other side of the room, it proved to be a normal … albeit loud … night.

 

Suddenly the swinging doors opened with a bang and a tall man stood there, his rifle pointed in their direction. ‘That’s enough!’ he shouted. Hoss gave Adam a startled look and put down his drink while everyone else stopped and stared at the man, unsure what the problem was. ‘You!’ he shouted, indicating the two poker players who were arguing. ‘Out!’

 

‘Huh?’ said Sam. ‘Who the hell are you and what on earth are you talking about?’

 

The man cocked the rifle directly at him. ‘I’m the law around here … that’s who I am,’ he said. ‘Now get out and down to the jail.’

 

‘Bert Tanner,’ whispered Hoss into Adam’s ear.

 

Adam stood up. ‘There must be some kind of misunderstanding here sheriff,’ he said politely. ‘These fellars were just having a bit of fun.  There’s no need to have them locked up.’

 

Bert Tanner turned to Adam. ‘And just who might you be?’ he enquired.

 

‘Name’s Cartwright,’ said Adam, holding out his hand. ‘Adam Cartwright.’

 

Bert looked at the hand and ignored it. ‘Well then, Mr Adam Cartwright, if I were you I’d stay out of things that aren’t my business,’ he snarled. ‘Now you two get!’

 

‘What’s the charge?’ yelled Sam indignantly. 

 

‘Disturbing the peace,’ replied the man calmly. ‘With intent to destroy property.’  He motioned with the rifle and the two men reluctantly walked out of the bar together, their faces looking like thunder.

 

Hoss came to stand next to Adam. ‘Seems our new sheriff is a bit of a stickler for the law, don’t it?’

 

‘It would appear so,’ replied Adam. ‘Come on … let’s finish our drinks and then haul little brother out of here before he gets himself into some sort of trouble.’

 

=======

 

‘You shoulda seen him Pa,’ exclaimed Little Joe, his eyes wide as he perched himself on the corner of the coffee table. ‘He’s a right hard case, don’t ya reckon Hoss?’

 

‘I reckon so,’ said Hoss as he sat down on the sofa. ‘Seems like he’s gonna stick ta the letter of the law.’

 

Ben raised an eyebrow. ‘Well that’s to be expected I suppose.  He’s probably trying to just get things in control seeing as how he’s new and all.’

 

‘Well I think he was ready ta shoot one of em,’ said Little Joe.  He giggled. ‘You shoulda seen their faces Pa!’  He giggled again.

 

Ben turned to him. ‘How many drinks did you have?’ he asked sternly.

 

‘Three,’ replied Little Joe indignantly. ‘You said I could!’

 

Ben pointed his finger under his youngest son’s nose. ‘I said that you could have a couple,’ he said. ‘That means two, not three.  Now if you’ve got nothing sensible to contribute to this conversation you’d better go on up to bed young man.’

 

Joe looked hurt. ‘How come I have to …’  he stopped as he studied the look on his father’s face. ‘Goodnight,’ he muttered and turned towards the stairs.

 

‘What was that?’ his father asked as he heard the youngster mutter something further under his breath.

 

‘Nothin Pa,’ said Joe over his shoulder. ‘I was just saying goodnight.’

 

Adam sat down on the corner of the coffee table that Joe had vacated. ‘Well at least Tanner didn’t hold the men very long,’ he said. ‘He must have thought it over, because they were out of there within half an hour.’

 

‘Really?’ said Ben. ‘That seems strange.  I mean … why jail them in the first place if he was only going to let them out again?’

 

Adam shrugged. ‘Who knows,’ he said. ‘The only thing I can think of is that the town coffers are fuller now.’  Ben raised an eyebrow in the form of a question mark as Adam continued. ‘He fined them fairly heavily from what I hear,’ he explained.

 

Ben nodded. ‘I see.  Well I suppose that he has the right to, but it seems rather harsh.’  He shook his head. ‘I’m sure it’ll all settle down in a while boys.  Like I said … he’s just making his mark in a new town.  Now we’d better all get on up to bed … we have church in the morning.’

 

=======

 

‘Hey Hoss?’  Joe bounded out of the mercantile store and grinned at his brother hopefully.

 

‘What?’ asked Hoss as he hoisted yet another sack of grain onto the back of the buckboard. ‘You know, it wouldn’t hurt ya to help me here.’

 

Joe patted his brother on the back. ‘I’ve just been checking that we’ve got everything from inside,’ he assured his brother. ‘Sides .. you’re doing such a good job out here Hoss.  You really are a quick worker ya know.  I sure wish I was as strong as you.’

 

Hoss tried to look modest and picked up an extra large sack. ‘Thanks Joe,’ he said. ‘I reckon I am right strong.’  He threw the sack onto the rest with little effort. ‘What’s the matter anyhow?’

 

‘I was just thinking,’ said Joe. ‘We’ve made good time here cause you’re such a quick worker,’ he patted his brother on the back again and grinned at him. ‘And I was thinking we’ve got time for a drink before we make it home.  What do ya think?’

 

‘I think ya’re outta luck today little buddy,’ replied Hoss as he took a bandanna out of his pocket and wiped his face on it. ‘There’ll be no drinks fer you today Joseph.’

 

‘Aw come on Hoss!” replied Little Joe. ‘Why do ya think I volunteered ta come into town for?’

 

‘Well it sure weren’t fer the work,’ said Hoss. ‘Now get up on that buckboard and we’ll be outta here.’

 

‘But Hoss …’  Hoss picked his brother up by the back of the belt and deposited him on the seat of the buckboard without a word before climbing up beside him. He hitched up the reins, ignoring his Joe’s scowl and gave a huge grin as they began their way slowly down the street.

 

Suddenly a riderless horse shot out in front of them and their two horses bolted in panic.  Hoss struggled to maintain his control over the beasts, but he was fighting a losing battle as both animals fought against him and began to run down Main Street. ‘Hold on Joe!’ called Hoss. ‘I can’t hold em back!’

 

The buckboard careered down the street, causing people to scatter in all directions in front of it.  It wasn’t until they were near the edge of town that Hoss managed to gain control again and pulled the horses to a halt near the Livery Stable.

 

‘That was great!’ announced Little Joe with a grin.

 

Hoss gave his brother a dark look and shook his head. ‘Don’t be so stupid!’ he snarled. ‘We’re just lucky that no one was hurt.’

 

You are indeed,’ said a voice behind them and they turned to see Sheriff Tanner standing there glaring at them both. ‘You’re two of them Cartwrights, ain’t you?’ he asked.

 

‘Sure are sheriff,’ said Hoss and tipped his hat as he got down to soothe the two horses. ‘Sorry bout that back there.  The horses bolted.’

 

Are you aware that it is an offence to drive animals in that reckless way in the middle of town?’ asked the sheriff.

 

Hoss looked startled. ‘Well they got spooked,’ he said. ‘Tweren’t exactly my fault.’

 

‘None the less they’re your animals and you were driving the team,’ replied the sheriff. ‘You’d better come with me.’

 

‘What?’ replied Hoss. ‘Come where?’

 

‘Down to the jail,’ replied the sheriff as he got out his gun. ‘Let’s do this the easy way Cartwright.’

 

Hoss scratched his head. ‘You’ve gotta be joking!’ he said. ‘I ain’t done nothing!’

 

‘I just told you Cartwright,’ said the sheriff. ‘Reckless driving ain’t exactly nothing.  And I’m going to add endangering the lives of others to the list as well. Now march!’

 

Little Joe jumped in front of his brother. ‘You ain’t taking him anywhere!’ he declared. ‘He ain’t done nothing!’

 

‘Be quiet Joe,’ muttered Hoss as he saw the look in the sheriff’s eye.

 

Tanner turned to Joe. ‘You want to join your brother?’ he asked. 

 

Joe took a step back. ‘No,’ he said.

 

‘Then shut up.’

 

‘You take the team home Joe,’ said Hoss. ‘Tell Pa what’s happened.’  He looked the sheriff up and down silently for a moment. ‘I reckon there might be a fine involved, ain’t that right sheriff?’

 

‘I reckon so,’ said the sheriff. ‘Now stop wasting my time and get down to the jail Cartwright.’  He gave Joe a dark look before turning to follow Hoss down the street.

 

=======

 

Ben Cartwright strode into the Sheriff’s office and slammed the door behind him. ‘What’s this about you keeping my son in jail?’ he demanded.

 

Bert Tanner leant back in his chair and put his hands behind his head as he studied the angry man in front of him. ‘And who might you be?’ he asked easily.

 

‘My name is Ben Cartwright,’ replied Ben. ‘And I’d like to know what you’ve charged my son with.’

 

Bert shrugged. ‘Didn’t your other boy tell you?’ he asked.

 

‘Yes he told me,’ shouted Ben. ‘But I didn’t believe him.’

 

‘Well you should have,’ said the sheriff. He consulted a paper on his desk. ‘Reckless driving and endangering the lives of bystanders.’

 

Ben’s eyes narrowed. ‘I see,’ he said shortly. And there will a fine to get him out, I presume?’

 

The sheriff smiled. ‘If that’s the way you’d like it,’ he said. ‘I could of course keep him in jail for three days.’

 

Ben took out his wallet. ‘How much?’ he said tersely.

 

The sheriff took a deep breath and considered for a moment. ‘Twenty dollars,’ he said finally.

 

Ben’s eyes bulged. ‘What?’ he shouted. ‘That’s absurd!’

 

The sheriff shrugged his shoulders. ‘Your choice,’ he said easily and smiled as Ben plonked the money down in front of him on the desk. He sat forward in his chair and picked up the money. ‘You’re a bit of a big-shot round here ain’t ya?’ he muttered. Ben merely glared at the man and said nothing. ‘Time you realised who’s in charge here Cartwright,’ he continued. ‘If I were you I’d keep those boys of yours outta trouble.’

 

Ben folded his arms across his chest and glared at the man. ‘Kindly get my son for me,’ he said.

 

Bert Tanner shrugged again and stood up slowly. ‘As you like,’ he said with a grin and picked up the keys as he went into the next room.  Within a minute Hoss had followed him out again.

 

‘I’m sorry Pa,’ Hoss muttered with an angry glance at Tanner. ‘I can explain.’

 

Ben motioned for his son to leave the room. ‘There’s no need Hoss,’ he said. ‘Joseph told me all about it.’  He glared at Bert before leaving the room behind his son.

 

Bert Tanner put his feet up on the table and sat back in his chair again with a small chuckle.  He pulled his wallet out of his pocket and put the twenty dollars into it.

 

=======

 

‘Unless it is absolutely necessary, none of you are to go into town again until Roy Coffee gets back, is that clear?’ said Ben at supper that night.  Time hadn’t lessened his anger at the situation and he was not in a very receptive mood.

 

‘But Pa …’ said Joe, slow as always to pick up on the fact that it wasn’t a good time to argue with his father.

 

‘That is enough Joseph!’ thundered Ben. ‘Kindly do as you’re told for once without arguing the point!’

 

Little Joe sat back in his chair and said nothing.  There was silence for a few moments while they all ate and then Ben spoke again. ‘I’ve got a good mind to see Clem Hawker and get him to bring it up at a Town Council meeting,’ he muttered. ‘That man shouldn’t be allowed to get away with treating people like that!’

 

Adam cleared his throat. ‘Pa?’ he ventured.

 

Ben continued to mutter under his breath. ‘Its daylight robbery is what it is!’ he said.

 

‘Pa?’

 

‘What!?’

 

Adam bit his lip before continuing. ‘I think it’s probably best to leave it, don’t you?  I mean, if this Tanner has it in for us then you’ll only make it worse … don’t you think?’

 

Ben shook his head ‘I know you’re right,’ he admitted. ‘It just makes me so darned angry that’s all.’

 

‘Well if it’s any consolation to you, it’s not just Hoss that he’s done it to,’ said Adam. ‘Charlie was in town this afternoon and he told me that Tanner is fining people all over the place.  Seems like no one can do anything without getting locked up and those who can’t afford to pay have to stay in there.  The jail is overflowing.’

 

Ben shook his head. ‘I just don’t understand it,’ he said. ‘This Tanner has the reputation of running a good town.  Why would he be doing something like this?’

 

‘Mebbe that’s why,’ interrupted Hoss. ‘Mebbe he runs towns where people jest don’t dare step outta line is all. They’re too afraid of getting inta trouble.’

 

‘I ain’t afraid of him!’ boasted Little Joe.  ‘He ain’t gonna scare me!’

 

‘He won’t have a chance to scare you young man, because you’re having nothing to do with him … remember?’ retorted Ben. ‘You aren’t going into town.’

 

Adam stroked his chin thoughtfully. ‘I have a feeling there’s something more going on here,’ he mused.

 

‘What?’ asked Hoss.

 

‘I’m not sure.’  Adam looked at his father. ‘Anyway Pa, we can’t stay out of town for three weeks until Roy gets back.  What about getting supplies?  And I’m sure you’ll have business in there at some stage.’

 

‘Well as much as possible no one is to go in there,’ replied his father. ‘There’s plenty to keep us all busy here on the ranch and only those who need to are to go in.’ He shot a meaningful glance in Little Joe’s direction.

 

‘So maybe it weren’t such a good idea for Sheriff Coffee to have a break after all?’ said Little Joe.

 

‘Roy Coffee has every right to have that break,’ retorted Ben. ‘We’ll all just have to put up with it I suppose.  But one thing is for certain … the sooner Roy gets back, the better.’

 

=======

 

Adam wiped his arm across his forehead and replaced his hat before turning to look at the man beside him. ‘That’s fine Bert,’ he said. ‘If you finish the men up here for me today I’d be grateful.  I need to get into town.’

 

‘Sure thing Adam,’ said the other man. ‘I’ll keep em moving.’

 

Adam smiled at the other man before mounting up and turning his horse away.  He was just about to ride off when he heard a voice yelling behind him. ‘Hey Adam!’  He turned to see his youngest brother mounting up eagerly as well.

 

‘What are you doing?’ Adam demanded as Joe pulled his horse to a halt beside him.

 

‘You said to Bert that you was going into town,’ explained Joe with a charming grin. ‘I thought I’d ride in with ya.’

 

‘Well you thought wrong,’ replied his brother. ‘Just because I’m going in doesn’t mean that you are too.  You stay here and keep working with the others.  Bert will show you what to do.’

 

Joe scowled. ‘Aw come on Adam!’ he whined. ‘I ain’t been in there all week!’  Adam simply ignored him and turned his horse away. ‘It ain’t fair! called out Joe. ‘You get to go in!’

 

Adam hesitated. ‘I’m going in because I have no choice,’ he replied. ‘You remember what Pa told us don’t you?  He’d skin you alive if he found out that you were wheedling to go.’

 

‘I ain’t wheedling nothing,’ said Joe. ‘Please?’

 

‘No.  Now get back to work.’  Adam gave his brother a hard look and waited until he’d dismounted again before turning his horse away and riding off. That Joe!  It was hard enough having to cope with everything else around here at times without putting up with his brother’s antic as well.  As he rode he thought about the stories that had drifted back to the ranch during the past week from town.  It seemed as if Bert Tanner had been having a fine time accusing just about everyone he could find of one thing or another and Adam had no respect for the man after he’d heard of some of the things that he’d had people in jail for.  He wondered just where he’d got such a good reputation from and considered that maybe Hoss was right and people were just scared of him.  He resolved to make sure that he got to the bank and out of town again without coming into contact with the man if he could help it. He wouldn’t be going in at all unless he was being forced to.

 

As he rode into town, the first thing that Adam noticed was the absence of people on the streets.  He had never seen it so deserted, except late at night and even then there was usually quite a crowd in the saloons. As he passed the Silver Dollar he noticed that even here was deserted … something that he could never remember happening … and he wondered how much of this was due to Bert Tanner’s influence.  The man was surely a force to be reckoned with that was for sure!

 

He rode quickly to the bank and dismounted in front of it, tying his horse to the hitching rail and going inside.  At least there were people in here, he thought. I was beginning to think it looked like a ghost town.

 

‘Hi Hank,’ he said to the teller as he got to the counter. ‘Where is everyone today?’

 

Hank shrugged. ‘Home, most likely,’ he said. ‘Seems like most people have been sticking close to home all week.’

 

Adam frowned. ‘Wouldn’t be anything to do with that new sheriff of ours, would it?’ he asked.

 

Hank nodded and looked around guiltily as he did so. ‘More than likely,’ he said. ‘He sure is a tough one Adam.’

 

‘What do you mean?’

 

‘Well it don’t seem worth getting into trouble over us all,’ continued the man. ‘Most folks just seem to prefer to stay at home while he’s around.’ He looked at Adam thoughtfully. ‘Seems to me that you Cartwrights haven’t been around much lately either.’

 

‘True,’ said Adam. ‘Seems like everyone is thinking alike about this Bert Tanner.’

 

‘Well all I know is …’  Hank stopped as the door opened and the man in question walked in.  Everyone in the bank froze for a moment as Bert looked around and then began to move a lot more quietly than before. Adam’s eyes narrowed as he studied the man.

 

‘Morning all,’ said Bert as he tipped his hat and looked around.  ‘How’s everything going in here?’

 

‘Fine thanks sheriff,’ said Hank nervously. ‘Everything is under control.’

 

‘Good.’  Bert walked slowly across the room and Adam noticed the few people that were there begin to leave quietly. The sheriff leant on the counter next to Adam and stared at him for a moment.  ‘You’re one of them Cartwrights, ain’t you?’ he asked.

 

‘Yes,’ said Adam and turned his back on the man. ‘Thank you Hank,’ he said. ‘I’ll wait while you count it out thanks.’  He watched the teller count out his money, well aware of the other man’s nervousness as he did so.

 

‘Ain’t seen any of you fellars in here all week,’ said the sheriff.  Adam said nothing, but continued to watch Hank. ‘You all been busy out there on that big spread of yours eh?’ continued the sheriff.

 

‘Yes,’ said Adam.  He picked up his money. ‘Thanks Hank,’ he said with a smile. ‘See you around.’

 

‘Where you going Cartwright?’ asked Bert, standing up straight. ‘I ain’t finished talking to you yet.’

 

Adam turned to the man slowly and looked him up and down. ‘But I’m finished with you,’ he said deliberately. He tipped his hat to Hank. ‘Bye Hank,’ he said and left the bank. 

 

As he walked down the street towards his horse, he heard footsteps behind him and glanced over his shoulder to see Bert walking a few paces behind him. ‘Where you going Cartwright?’ asked Tanner.

 

Adam stopped and turned to face the man. ‘I’m going wherever I choose in this town,’ he said. ‘And it’s no business of yours to even ask,’ he replied in a measured tone.

 

Bert Tanner gave him a smile which didn’t go any further than his mouth. ‘You sure are testy Cartwright,’ he said. ‘I wonder why that is?’

 

Adam shook his head and turned towards his horse, untying it and mounting up.  As he was about to turn away, Bert reached up and took hold of his reins. ‘You’d better keep out of town if you know what’s good for you,’ he said in a low voice. ‘All you Cartwrights better stay outta here or I might just have to come out there to that big spread of yours and check it out for anything that mightn’t be quite legal, if you get my meaning.’

 

Adam stopped and stared at the man. ‘Did I just hear you right?’ he said in a loud voice. ‘Are you threatening me Tanner?’

 

Bert gave him another smile. ‘Not at all,’ he said. ‘Just trying to make sure that things around here is quiet that’s all.  I’d hate to think that you high and might Cartwrights might come in here and stir up trouble.  I’ve already had one of you in jail.’

 

‘You’ve had half the town in jail from what I hear,’ said Adam. ‘You’d better watch yourself Tanner. Intimidation is against the law you know.’

 

Tanner’s eyes widened in surprise and he gave Adam a dark look. ‘So it is,’ he agreed. ‘I’d hate to think of you having to go to jail fer it neither Cartwright. Come to think of it I just might take a ride out to that Ponderosa place of yours and do a few inspections.  You can tell your daddy that he should be expecting me.’

 

‘You have no jurisdiction over our ranch,’ said Adam, giving the man a hard look. ‘You’d better stay off our land Tanner.’

 

‘That’s where you’re wrong Cartwright,’ said Tanner easily. ‘I have jurisdiction over this entire district, I’ll have you know.  Seems to me that Sheriff Coffee has been a might slack bout some of the regulations round here too.  I might just have to tighten things up a mite while he’s on his break.’

 

‘You’d better watch yourself Tanner,’ said Adam as he turned his horse away. 

 

‘So had you Cartwright,’ muttered the man as he watched Adam ride away. ‘So had you.’

 

=======

 

‘Pa, he’s incredible,’ said Adam at supper that night. ‘He’s got that whole town intimidated to the extent that I swear they’re frightened to come out of their homes while he’s around.’

 

‘He don’t scare me none!’ declared Little Joe. ‘I woulda showed him if I’d been there.’

 

Ben shot his youngest son a dark look. ‘Joseph, be quiet!’ he said angrily.  ‘Well it’s just as well we’re staying out of town then,’ he said. ‘The sooner Roy comes back the better by the sound of it.’

 

‘But that’s just the point Pa,’ replied Adam. ‘Roy won’t be back for close to three weeks.  I don’t think the town can carry on like this until then.  Someone is going to get into real trouble if he continues the way he is.  I really didn’t realise how bad it is in there.’

 

‘He can’t hurt us none if we stay outta there,’ said Hoss. ‘Pa is right.  We just need ta wait fer Roy ta come back from his break.’

 

Adam shook his head. ‘I don’t know,’ he said. ‘I have a feeling that he meant it about coming out here and checking out how we’re adhering to regulations.’

 

‘Adhering?’ interrupted Joe. ‘What’s that mean?’ No one took any notice of him. 

 

‘What kinda regulations?’ said Hoss with a snort. ‘What in tarnation does he mean by that anyhow?’

 

Adam shrugged. ‘Who would know,’ he replied. ‘All I know is that he seemed determined to make life difficult for us for some reason.  I really think something should be done about him Pa … for everyone’s sake.’

 

‘I suppose I could talk to Clem Hawker and get him to call a special meeting of the Town Council,’ mused Ben. ‘I have been thinking about doing it.’

 

‘I think it would be a good idea Pa,’ said Adam. 

 

‘What could the Town Council do?’ asked Hoss.

 

Ben shook his head. ‘I don’t know son.  I suppose we could give him a warning at least that we aren’t happy with the way he’s going about doing things. Maybe that would be enough to make him stop and take notice.’

 

‘I reckon I could make him stop and take notice,’ said Little Joe.

 

Adam glared at his younger brother. ‘Oh for heavens sake be quiet!’ he said. ‘You don’t know what you’re talking about Joe.’ 

 

Joe made a face at his older brother and Ben pointed a finger in his direction. ‘I’ve told you before to stay away from that man Joseph,’ he said sternly. ‘Do I make myself clear?’

 

‘Yes sir,’ Joe said automatically. ‘But I still reckon that …’

 

‘When will you have the meeting Pa?’ asked Hoss.

 

‘The sooner the better son,’ said Ben. ‘I’ll ride into town tomorrow and see Clem.’

 

‘Don’t anyone ever listen to me?’ asked Joe indignantly. 

 

‘Of course we do Joseph,’ said Ben with a wink at Adam. ‘What is it you’d like to say about the situation?’  He gave the youngster a meaningful look which Joe returned with a shrug. 

 

‘Nothing I guess,’ he said.

 

‘All right then,’ his father replied. ‘Good night boys.’  He strode away from the table.

 

‘I still reckon …’ began Joe in a low voice.

 

‘Oh be quiet,’ said Adam rudely.

 

=======

 

‘As Ben was the one to suggest this meeting I think it’s right that he should open up the discussions,’ said Clem Hawker as he looked around the room. ‘Ben?’

 

Ben cleared his throat. ‘Well I think it’s pretty clear what’s going on around here,’ he said. ‘From what I’ve heard things have been difficult since Bert Tanner took over as sheriff.’

 

‘I agree,’ said Sam Winters. ‘He’s been right threatening to everyone. I say let’s get rid of him.’

 

Clem Hawker put his hand up as everyone started to speak at once. ‘Gentlemen,’ he said. ‘Please!’  He waited for silence. ‘Now it just isn’t that easy as you all know.  We asked Sheriff Tanner to take over while Roy Coffee is away and he signed a contract to that effect.  We just can’t break that without good cause.’

 

‘I say we have good cause!’ shouted Sam. ‘If intimidating everyone and putting innocent folks in jail ain’t good cause then I don’t know what is!  Why … the way he’s been fining folks round here for trivial things it’s a wonder anyone has any money left at all.  I say let’s get rid of him!’

 

‘Now Sam,’ said Ben in a mild tone. ‘I know everyone is riled up about all this, but we have to be reasonable.  The man hasn’t done anything out side the law after all and Clem is right … we just can’t get rid of him without a legal reason to do so.’

 

‘What do you mean he hasn’t done anything outside the law?’ replied Sam. ‘Why …’  he stopped as the door opened and Bert Tanner entered the room.  His eyes narrowed. ‘What are you doing here Tanner?’ he asked. ‘This is a private meeting.’

 

Bert Tanner leant against the wall and surveyed the eight men in front of him. ‘That’s where you’re wrong Mr Winters,’ he said in an even tone. ‘This is all the members of the Town Council if I ain’t wrong?’

 

‘It certainly is,’ said Clem Hawker, drawing himself up to his full height and facing the man. ‘And I’ll ask you to leave please Sheriff Tanner.’

 

‘I don’t think so,’ said Bert, studying his fingernails casually. ‘You see this is an illegal gathering and as such I need ta ask you gentlemen to disperse.’

 

‘I beg your pardon?’ spluttered Clem. ‘What on earth are you talking about?’

 

Bert merely shrugged. ‘It says in the Town Charter that any gathering of six or more men to formally discuss town business needs the approval of the Town Council,’ he said. 

 

Ben stood up and faced the man. ‘That is exactly what we are,’ he said in what he hoped was a mild tone. ‘We are the Town Council Mr Tanner, so in a way you could say that we have given ourselves permission.  Now if you will excuse us, we haven’t finished our meeting yet.’

 

Bert stood up straight and faced Ben. ‘Oh yes you have Mr Cartwright,’ he said with a grin. ‘You have finished or you’ll all find yourselves in jail fer breaking the law.’

 

‘What?!’ thundered Clem. ‘Make sense man!  Ben just told you that we are the Town Council.  Now get out of here!’

 

Bert stood his ground and shook his head ‘No sir,’ he said. ‘You gentlemen might form the Town Council, but it says in your Constitution that you’re entitled to one meeting a month.  Any more than that and you haveta give public notice of at least two weeks.  Now I may be new round here, but I ain’t seen no posters up declaring a meeting was taking place.  In my book that constitutes breaking the law.’

 

Ben went red and his breathing became laboured in spite of himself. ‘Now you see here Tanner …’ he said, his voice rising.

 

‘No, you see here, Mr Cartwright,’ replied Tanner with a smirk on his face. ‘You might think that you’re a big shot round these parts, but the fact is that I’m the law here for the next three weeks until Roy Coffee gets back.’  He looked around the room again. ‘Either you gentlemen break up this meeting immediately and give two weeks notice for the next one, then I’ll be forced to arrest every one of you.’

 

Ben stepped forward. ‘You wouldn’t dare!’ he shouted. 

 

Tanner glared at Ben and reached for his gun, but before he could take it out Clem Hawker stepped in between the two men. ‘Steady on Ben,’ he said. ‘This isn’t doing anyone any good.’  He turned to Bert Tanner again and took a deep breath. ‘All right Mr Tanner,’ he said. ‘I will give public notice first thing in the morning,’ he said. ‘We will reconvene in two weeks from today.’

 

‘Fine,’ said Tanner.  ‘And until then I’ll just remind you gentlemen that I’m the law round here.  I’ve taken on this job to keep this town in control and that’s what I aim to do.’  He opened the door and gestured with his arm. ‘Now if you gentlemen will oblige me by leaving?’

 

One by one the men left the room.  As Ben passed the Sheriff he paused and glared at him. ‘Don’t think you’re going to get away with this Tanner,’ he said. ‘I’ll see you pay for this.’

 

Bert smirked at him. ‘Really?’ he said. ‘We’ll just see about that Mr Cartwright. Something tells me that you might be the one who pays.’  He grinned as Ben slammed the door behind him.

 

  =======

 

‘How can he get away with it Pa?’ asked Adam. ‘It’s incredible to think that he can!’

 

Ben shook his head and gave his son a frustrated look. ‘That’s just it Adam,’ he said. ‘I’ve checked the Constitution and the Town Charter and he’s completely right in everything he said. 

 

‘But those regulations would only be there for safeguard unscrupulous people from taking advantage of the townsfolk,’ objected Adam.

 

‘I know son, but it works both ways,’ said his father. ‘It seems that Bert Tanner is well within the law to insist as he has that we don’t meet.’

 

‘And by the time you do get to meet, his time will nearly be up here,’ said Adam bitterly. ‘It seems that he’s thought of everything doesn’t it?’

 

Ben nodded thoughtfully. ‘Yes,’ he replied. ‘We’ll just have to hope that no one gets into serious trouble in the meantime.  Thank goodness everyone seems to understand the seriousness of the situation though.  From what you told me most people in town are trying to be very careful not step out of line.’

 

‘I hope they can just sustain it for another two weeks,’ mused Adam. ‘I’m still concerned that Tanner is going to make good his promise to come on out here and cause trouble though.’

 

Ben stroked his chin thoughtfully. ‘I don’t see what he can do,’ he said. ‘It’s not as if we’re breaking the law in any way on The Ponderosa.’

 

‘He’ll find something,’ said Adam bitterly. ‘You just wait and see.’

 

=======

 

Joe pulled his horse to a halt and stared down at the man at the bottom of the hill.  He narrowed his eyes as he realised who it was and his first thought was to ride back to where Adam and the men were working and inform his brother that Sheriff Tanner was on their land, but his second thought was that if he did they might be too late to confront the man with whatever the reason was for him being there.  In his usual impulsive manner he decided on the latter and rode full pelt down the hill to meet the man. ‘Hey!’ he called as he pulled up beside him and dismounted. ‘What are you doing on our land?’

 

Bert Tanner leant against the boulder behind him and crossed his arms as he studied the angry young man in front of him. ‘And who might you be?’ he asked.

 

‘I’m Joe Cartwright … as if you didn’t know!’ Joe said testily.

 

‘Ah yes!’ Tanner answered. ‘You were with that big lug from the other day, weren’t you?’

 

‘If you mean my brother, then yes I was,’ Joe replied angrily. ‘And I asked what you’re doing on our land!’

 

‘Take it easy,’ said Tanner with a grin. ‘I’m just checking things, that’s all.’

 

Joe hesitated. ‘What things?’ he asked. ‘Who gave you permission to be here anyways?  My Pa don’t want you on our land.’

 

‘Don’t he?’ replied Tanner. ‘Now that’s interesting.  I wonder what Ben Cartwright has to hide?’

 

Joe snorted. ‘My Pa don’t have anything ta hide,’ he said. 

 

‘Really?’ said Tanner. ‘I wouldn’t be so sure about that.  If he had nothing to hide then why would he be so keen to keep me away from here? I think I might just sniff round for a bit and try and figure out how old man Cartwright’s been going against the law.’

 

‘My Pa don’t break the law!’ shouted Joe. ‘You got that all wrong!  He’s never broken the law … ever!’

 

‘Really?’ said Tanner, looking around. ‘Seems to me that those boundary markers of his might need checking.  I wouldn’t put it past your old man to have moved them to cheat on his neighbours.’

 

Joe swung his fist back before he could stop himself and it connected with Tanner’s nose.  Bert took a step backwards and stared at the angry boy in front of him as he pulled his gun from his holster and pointed it directly at him. ‘You just did me a big favour boy,’ he snarled. ‘Now hand over that gun of yours.’

 

‘What?’ said Joe, startled.

 

‘You heard me. ‘Hand over that gun or I’ll take it from you.  Hurry up!’

 

Joe handed the man his gun, still puzzled. ‘I don’t understand ….’ he began.

 

Tanner chuckled. ‘You don’t understand?’ he said. ‘Well then let me explain it to you.  It’s called assaulting an officer of the law.  Now get on that horse … we’re going back to town.’

 

‘I ain’t going anywhere with you!’ Joe retorted.

 

‘Oh yes you are,’ replied Tanner, gesturing with his gun as he slipped Joe’s into his belt. ‘Now get on that horse and ride in front of me, or I’ll tie you to it.’

 

Joe glared at the man and slowly mounted up. ‘My Pa’s gonna get you for this,’ he said. ‘He ain’t gonna stand for it.’

 

‘We’ll see about that,’ chuckled Tanner as he mounted up as well. ‘We’ll just see about that, won’t we?’

 

=======

 

Ben Cartwright strode into the Sheriff’s office and stood in front of the man’s desk with his hands on his hips while he glared at Bert Tanner. ‘Well?’ he barked. ‘How much is it to be this time Tanner?  How much do you intend to have me pay?’

 

Bert leant back in his chair and looked Ben up and down. ‘I beg your pardon?’ he asked casually.

 

Ben leant forward and planted his hands on the man’s desk while staring intently into his eyes. ‘Don’t you play those games with me any more Tanner,’ he said in a low voice. ‘I’ve had just about enough of you!’

 

Tanner gave a sly smile. ‘Really?’ he replied. ‘You don’t say.  Well if I were you, Mr Ben Cartwright, I’d use a civil tone of voice while you’re in here.’

 

Ben reached across the desk and pulled the other man forward by the front of his shirt. ‘You had no business being on my land!’ he shouted. ‘And you had no business hauling another one of my boys in here!’

 

Tanner pulled himself free of Ben’s grasp and glared back at him. ‘You Cartwrights think you’re in charge round these parts, don’t ya?’ he snarled. ‘Well I aim ta show you different Mr Cartwright. I had every right to be on your land checking out those boundaries and that boy of yours belongs in that jail. He struck an officer of the law and he’s about to pay fer it.’

 

‘How much?’ demanded Ben again. ‘Let’s just get this over with Tanner.  Once I have my son out of there and we’ve had that meeting I’ll be seeing you out of here.’

 

Tanner gave another smirk. ‘We’ll just see about that, won’t we?’ he said.

 

Ben banged his fist on the desk. ‘Will you get out with it man!’ he shouted. ‘I want my son!’

 

Tanner shook his head. ‘Sorry,’ he said. ‘But your money ain’t gonna do you no good this time Cartwright.  As far as I’m concerned that boy of yours can rot in there for the next two weeks until you have that meeting. Maybe then you’ll see who’s in charge round here!’  He sat back and gave a satisfied grin, obviously enjoying Ben’s discomfiture.

 

‘What?!’ Ben spluttered. ‘You can’t keep him in there all that time!’

 

‘I can and I will,’ said Tanner. ‘Maybe having that precious boy of yours locked up for a spell might just show you whose boss round here.’

 

‘I want to see him!’

 

Tanner shrugged. ‘Suit yaself,’ he said easily and jerked his thumb over his shoulder. ‘I’m sure you know where the cells are.’

 

Ben gave the man one last glare and then strode into the next room.  As he entered it Joe sprang to his feet and walked quickly over to the bars. ‘Pa I’m sorry,’ he began. ‘I just couldn’t help it.  He …’

 

Ben held up his hand. ‘It’s all right Joe,’ he said. ‘I understand son.’

 

Joe blinked a couple of times before answering. ‘You do?’ he said. ‘How come?  I mean … I thought you’d be mad with me for hitting him.’

 

Ben shook his head. ‘The way I’m feeling right about now son, I want to hit him myself.  I suppose you couldn’t help it.’

 

Joe grinned. ‘Sure couldn’t,’ he agreed. ‘You shoulda heard him Pa.  He was carrying on like he was gonna make you pay big time.  He said that our boundaries was all wrong and when I tried to tell him different he started saying things bout you.  I couldn’t stand there and listen to him saying those things Pa.  I just ….’

 

‘I know son,’ replied Ben. ‘It seems like Sheriff Tanner is bound and determined to rile us Cartwrights no matter which way you look at it.’

 

Joe shook his head in agreement with his father. ‘I reckon you might be right Pa,’ he said. ‘Can we go home now?’

 

Ben gave his son a sad look. ‘I’m afraid not Joe,’ he said. ‘It seems that Sheriff Tanner wants to keep you here for a while.  He won’t let me pay a fine to get you out.’

 

‘Joe’s eyes widened. ‘What?’ he said. ‘But … but I can’t stay in here!  I can’t!’

 

Ben reached through the bars and patted the back of his son’s neck. ‘I know,’ he said softly. ‘But you’re going to have to until I can make that man see sense. I’ll go to Mr Hawker and see what we can work out.’  He smiled at Joe. ‘Now don’t you worry,’ he said. ‘I’m sure it’ll only be for a while.  I’ll find some way to get you out of here Joe.’

 

‘Time is up,’ said a loud voice behind them and Ben turned to see Bert Tanner standing there with a grin on his face. ‘Time to get out now Cartwright.’

 

‘I’ll go when I’m ready!’ Ben barked back at the man. 

 

‘You’ll go now,’ said Tanner.  He pulled out his gun and aimed it at Ben. ‘Unless you’d like to join that boy of yours in there of course.  That can easily be arranged.’

 

Ben glared at the man and refused to answer him. Instead he turned back to Joe again and patted the back of his neck again. ‘Don’t you look so worried,’ he said. ‘I’ll be back soon son.  Just take it easy.’  Joe looked at his father and nodded, trying to smile as he did so.

 

‘Don’t you worry bout this boy of yours Cartwright,’ shouted Tanner as Ben left the room. ‘I’ll take good care of him for ya!’  He chuckled to himself and then gave Joe a sly smile. ‘Yes sir,’ he snarled. ‘We’s gonna get on real well, ain’t we kid?’

 

Joe turned his back on the man and sat down on his bunk again, his face turned towards the wall.

 

=======

 

‘Adam?’ asked Hoss as he watched his brother staring into space, the drink in his hand seemingly forgotten.

 

‘What?’ asked Adam absently.

 

‘What are ya thinking bout?  I can tell from that look on ya face that ya got something going on in that head of yours. What’s ya plan?’

 

Adam gave his brother a quick smile. ‘What makes you think I have a plan?’ he asked.

 

Hoss shrugged as he returned the grin. ‘Years of experience,’ he said simply. ‘Ya always got that look on ya face when we was kids and then the next thing I knew ya always had a plan.’

 

Adam leant forward. ‘Hoss, why do you think Tanner is putting so many people in jail?’ he asked quietly.

 

Hoss shrugged again. ‘I guess cause he don’t like em,’ he said.

 

‘Mmm.  But why jail?’ Adam persisted. ‘What does he gain from jailing them and then letting them go again?’

 

Hoss thought for a moment. ‘I don’t know,’ he said. ‘I guess they’s outta trouble for a bit is all.’

 

‘Hoss think about it,’ said Adam. ‘How long do most people stay in jail for after he arrests them?’

 

‘Not long,’ Hoss admitted. ‘He fines em quick smart and then lets em out again.  All except Joe,’ he added mournfully.

 

‘Yes,’ prompted Adam. ‘And?’

 

‘And ….’ Hoss scratched his head as he tried to think. ‘And I reckon he fines em when they get out.’

 

Adam snapped his fingers. ‘Exactly!’ he said. ‘He fines them.  Do you see now?’

 

Hoss looked perplexed. ‘Nuh,’ he said.

 

Adam sighed. ‘With the number of fines he’s been taking, the Town Council account down at the Bank should be considerably larger,’ he said.

 

‘So?’

 

‘So what if it isn’t?’

 

Hoss hesitated and then a slow grin appeared on his face. ‘If it isn’t …. Then Tanner musta been pocketing that money,’ he said and then stopped. ‘But how do ya know that he is?’ he asked.

 

‘I don’t,’ replied Adam. ‘But we can soon find out.’

 

Hoss shook his head. ‘No one down at that Bank is gonna give out information like that,’ he said. ‘You can’t prove it Adam.’

 

‘They won’t tell me,’ replied his brother. ‘But they will have to tell a member of the Town Council, won’t they?’

 

Hoss grinned again. ‘I reckon so,’ he said. ‘But …’

 

‘But what?’

 

‘Well what iffen you’re right Adam?  What if Tanner has been keeping the money?  How are we gonna prove he’s got it?’

 

Adam held up one finger and beckoned Hoss closer with it. ‘It’s like this brother,’ he whispered. ‘Here’s the plan …’

 

=======

 

Bert Tanner pulled the small stool closer to the wall before sitting down and leaning back on it.  He put his hands on his head and studied the young man in the cell with a grin on his face. ‘So Cartwright?’ he said. ‘How’s it feel to know ya daddy can’t help ya get outta here?’ Joe glanced at the man and then deliberately lay down on the bunk and faced the wall so that he didn’t have to look at him. ‘Don’t worry me none if you don’t wanna talk,’ said Tanner easily. ‘But ya can’t help but listen, can ya?’  There was no movement from the bunk. ‘Seems ta me like ya daddy’s forgotten bout ya anyway,’ continued Tanner. ‘I woulda thought he’d be back by now.  Reckon he’s happy fer you to stay in here after all.’  He stretched his legs out and put his hands behind his head as he rested against the wall. ‘Stands ta reason though,’ he said. ‘I heard round town that you cause him a lotta trouble for a youngun. He probably wants a break from you.’

 

Joe rolled over in spite of his intention not to. ‘You ain’t got no idea what you’re talking about mister,’ he said. ‘Why don’t you just shut your mouth?’

 

Tanner made a face. ‘I’d watch my own mouth if I were you kid,’ he said.

 

Joe sat up and glared at the man. ‘Oh yeah?’ he said. ‘I’ll say exactly what I want to and you can’t stop me!’

 

Tanner stared at the boy with a smirk on his face. ‘No?’ he said. ‘Fine with me … though if you want to add another charge of assaulting an officer of the law I can arrange it.’

 

Joe frowned. ‘I ain’t touched you!’ he shouted. ‘What are you talking about?’

 

Tanner’s smirk grew wider. ‘Seems ta me that it’d be your word against mine boy,’ he said. ‘Seems ta me that all I haveta say is that when I opened that cell to give you your dinner you attacked me.’  He leant forward and smiled at Joe nastily. ‘A bump on the head is easy to arrange if I need to, you know kid …. not to mention the damage I just might haveta do to ya to stop you attacking me again. Yes sir … If I were you I’d keep my mouth shut unless you want to make things a while lot worse fer yourself.’

 

Joe glared at the man. ‘Why are you doing this?’ he asked. ‘What did I do to you?’

 

Tanner shrugged. ‘Nothing,’ he said. ‘But it’ll sure rile your daddy some if his precious boy is hurt won’t it? Yes sir … if I were you I’d just watch what I say.’

 

Joe lay down and rolled over again to face the wall.  His anger was mounting and he felt such frustration as he realised that the man was right.  He was completely at his mercy in here and if the sheriff was bound to make life difficult for him then he could easily do it.  He prayed inwardly that his father would do whatever he had to in order get him out of here quickly. 

 

‘Yes sir,’ he heard Tanner say behind him. ‘That daddy of yours don’t seem to care about you no how.’  Joe put his hands over his ears to block out the man’s words.

 

=======

 

Adam watched the crowd in the saloon with narrowed eyes as he sat quietly in the corner and cradled his drink in his hand.  The place was practically deserted even though it was a Saturday night and the few people that were there were sitting quietly like himself just drinking quietly.  There were no poker games going on at all and the few saloon girls who were there were sitting despondently in a corner murmuring to each other as they mournfully around the room.  It seemed as if Tanner had done his work well, Adam thought.  it was as if the whole town were afraid to do anything.

 

He took a swig of his beer and glanced over at Jim who was occupying his usual spot at the bar.  Even he was quiet, just staring into his beer with a mournful expression as he swirled its contents around and around in the glass.  

 

At that moment the swing doors of the saloon opened and Bert Tanner appeared.  He looked around without a sound and nodded slightly as if happy with what he saw.  His eyes stopped when they came to Adam and he hesitated for a moment as if to speak, but then obviously thought better of it and turned to go.

 

Suddenly, Jim straightened up and faced the Sheriff. ‘Something we can do for you Sheriff?’ he asked in a loud voice.

 

‘No,’ said Tanner. ‘Everything seems to be in order here.’  He gave Adam a smirk and turned to go again.

 

‘Ya reckon?’ shouted Jim loudly. ‘Well what do ya know about that.  I wonder why that is Sheriff?  What do ya reckon has scared everyone outta here like this?’

 

Bert Tanner stared at the man for a moment before replying. ‘I wouldn’t know,’ he said. 

 

‘Ya don’t?’ shouted Jim again. ‘Ya should!  Seem ta me that you’ve been going round here causing trouble fer everyone without good cause.’  He waved his hand around the saloon. ‘Look at this place!  No one ta talk to … no one ta get drunk with …. It’s downright depressing is what it is.’ Tanner gave him another look and then turned to go. ‘Hey!’ called out Jim. ‘I’m talking ta you sheriff!  Don’t you turn ya back on me!’  He grabbed the man by the sleeve and pulled him towards him.

 

‘Take your hand off me,’ ordered Tanner.

 

‘I haven’t finished,’ protested Jim. ‘I …’

 

‘Oh yes you have!’ said the sheriff as he pulled out his gun and pointed it towards the door. ‘Over to the jail with you.’

 

Jim stuck out his jaw. ‘What for?’ he asked. ‘What did I do?’

 

‘Assaulting an officer of the law,’ replied Tanner. ‘Now get out!’

 

‘Assaulting an officer of the law?’ spluttered Jim. ‘I just grabbed ya arm is all.’

 

‘Exactly,’ said Tanner smugly. ‘And in my book that’s assault.’  He gestured with the gun again. ‘Now get outta here before I have to make ya.’

 

Jim put up his hands in a gesture of defeat and lumbered over to the door, followed by Tanner.  As they left the room Adam gave a small sigh and stood up to follow them.

 

=======

 

‘In there.’  Sheriff Tanner gestured with his gun into the other room. ‘You can keep young Cartwright company.’  He opened the cell next to Joe’s and then locked it as Jim entered.  He stood there and smiled at both of his prisoners. ‘Seems like a full house tonight,’ he smirked before turning away again and leaving them. 

 

Joe looked up from his bunk and gave Jim a mournful look. ‘What you in for Jim?’ he asked.

 

Jim smiled at the youngster and put his finger to his nose. ‘Assaulting an officer of the law,’ he replied with a wink.

 

‘Me too,’ replied Joe sadly, trying to work what on earth the man would be winking at him for. He turned sharply as he heard voices in the other room and stood up. ‘Hey!  That sounds like my brother Adam out there.  I sure hope he’s come to get me outta here.’  He looked towards the door expectantly. 

 

Jim sat down on his bunk. ‘Just settle down there boy,’ he said. ‘Give him time.’

 

Joe strained to hear what was being said in the other room and a smile appeared on his face as he thought about the fact that he could be sleeping in his own bed tonight if Adam were successful in getting him out of here.

 

‘So how much will the fine be this time?’ Adam demanded in the other room.

 

The sheriff sat back in his chair and gave Adam a puzzled look. ‘Why would you care about Jim?’ he asked.

 

‘Let’s just say he’s a friend of mine,’ replied Adam tersely. ‘And I hate to see anyone jailed for no reason.’

 

‘You call assaulting an officer of the law no reason?’ asked Tanner.

 

‘How much?’ asked Adam again.

 

Tanner smiled slowly before replying. ‘Two hundred dollars,’ he said with a chuckle, knowing that the figure was outrageous.  He braced himself for Adam’s indignant reply, and was surprised to see the man get his wallet out straight away and count out some notes, which he flung on the table in front of the sheriff.

 

‘Now let him out,’ said Adam.

 

Tanner raised his eyebrows as he looked at the money on the desk in front of him. ‘You Cartwrights got more money than sense all right,’ he said as he stood up and reached for the keys to the cell. ‘Well if you really want to waste your money like that it ain’t my business.’  He walked into the inner room, followed by Adam.

 

‘Hi Adam,’ called out Joe happily. ‘Boy am I glad to see you!’  He looked at the keys in Tanner’s hand and smiled as he bent down and picked up his hat. ‘Let’s get outta here … I can hardly wait ta get home again.’

 

Tanner gave the youngster a sly smile. ‘Looks like ya outta luck Cartwright,’ he said as he began to open Jim’s cell. ‘Seems like ya brother here ain’t interested in you.  Seems like he thinks more of this friend of his than he does fer his own brother.’

 

Joe’s jaw dropped as he watched Jim leave his cell and shake hands with Adam. ‘Thanks,’ he heard the man say. ‘I really owe ya one Adam.’

 

Adam gave Joe a shamefaced look. ‘Joe …’ he began.

 

‘What’s going on here?’ interrupted Little Joe indignantly. ‘How come you’re getting him out and not me?’

 

‘Joe, I’m sorry,’ began Adam. ‘But …’

 

‘But nothing!’ shouted Joe. ‘How come you ain’t getting me outta here?’

 

‘Sheriff Tanner won’t post bail for you,’ explained Adam patiently. ‘He did for Jim though.  I can’t get you out until we figure out a way to do it.’

 

‘And as far as I’m concerned, there just ain’t no way boy,’ said Tanner, obviously enjoying himself at the spectacle of the youngest Cartwright’s misery. ‘Now why don’t you just settle down and behave yaself?’

 

Joe turned to the man and gave him a dark look before clutching onto the bars of his cell and looking through them pleadingly at Adam. ‘Adam …’ he said in a low voice. ‘Please? I can’t stand it in here with him.’

 

Adam swallowed, wanting nothing more than to reassure his younger brother. It was hard to resist that mournful look that Joe turned on when he was after something, and he turned away before he weakened. ‘I’ll see you tomorrow maybe buddy,’ he said and walked out of the room.

 

‘See if I care!’ Joe shouted after him angrily.  He beat his fists against the bars in frustration, much to Tanner’s delight who grinned at him before leaving the room as well.  He waited until Adam and Jim had left the office before picking up the two hundred dollars and counting it, then grinned widely and stuffed it into his pocket with a contented sigh.

 

=======

 

‘Morning Sheriff,’ said Hank nervously as Bert Tanner entered the Bank. ‘How are you this morning?’

 

‘Tolerable,’ replied Tanner as he leant against the counter. 

 

‘What can I help you with?’

 

Tanner took a wad of money out of his pocket and pushed it across the counter towards Hank. ‘Put that in my account,’ he said.

 

Hank began to count the money. ‘Yes sir,’ he said. ‘Your personal account?’

 

‘Yep.’  Tanner looked out of the window and smiled as he saw the deserted streets and the near-empty shops opposite.  It was exactly as he liked it … no one around to interfere with him.  He felt in control when everyone was doing as they should and folks were going about their business quietly. 

 

‘Here.’  Hank thrust a receipt across the counter towards Bert Tanner and swallowed nervously again as the man signed it.

 

‘Thanks,’ said Bert and turned to leave the bank.  Just as he did however, the door opened and Adam entered, followed by his father, Hoss, Clem Hawker and several of the other Town Councillors. 

 

‘Just a minute there Tanner,’ said Adam firmly. ‘We’d like a word with you.’

 

Bert’s eyes narrowed. ‘What’s going on here?’ he asked suspiciously.

 

‘That’s just what we’d like to ask you,’ said Ben. ‘What were you doing just now?’

 

Tanner glared at the man. ‘What I’m doing in this bank is none of your damn business!’ he snapped. 

 

‘Oh I think it might be,’ said Adam with a smile. He motioned to Hank. ‘Could I see the money that our good Sheriff has just deposited please?’  Hank handed over the roll of money.  ‘Is this your money?’ asked Adam, holding it up.

 

‘Of course it’s my money … not that it’s any of your business!’ said Tanner. ‘Now get out of my way!’

 

Ben pushed the man backwards as he made to leave the room. ‘Hold on there a minute,’ he said sternly. ‘We’re not finished with you yet.’

 

‘Oh yes you are,’ said Tanner. ‘Now step aside before I arrest the lot of you!’

 

Adam raised an eyebrow at the man and held the roll of money up in front of his face. ‘I’d like to know where you got this from,’ he said.

 

‘None of your business,’ retorted Tanner, trying to push his way through again.  Hoss shoved him back this time and took his gun out of his holster as he was doing so with a grin. 

 

‘I don’t believe you’ll be needing this,’ he said with a grin. ‘Go on Adam … you were saying?’

 

Adam turned to Hank. ‘Which account did Sheriff Tanner put this money into?’ he asked.

 

‘His own personal account,’ said Hank with a smile and a wink at Adam. ‘He’s got the receipt in his hand.’

 

Ben reached over and took the piece of paper from the man before he could object. 

 

‘I see,’ said Adam with a smile. ‘I’ll ask you again Sheriff.  Where did you get this money?’

 

‘It’s my own personal money,’ said Tanner with a snarl. ‘If you’re trying ta make out that it ain’t ya got no proof of that Cartwright!”

 

Adam’s smile grew wider. ‘Oh I think I might,’ he said casually as he unrolled the money.  ‘Mr Hawker?  Could you take a look at this please?’  He held it out for the man to see.

 

Clem Hawker nodded his head. ‘It’s the same,’ he said. ‘It’s marked down the side like we all agreed.’  He stepped aside so that the others could look at it as well and then turned to face Tanner. ‘That’s the same money that Adam Cartwright gave you to bail out Jim,’ he said. ‘What’re you doing putting it into your own account?  It belongs in the Town account by rights.’

 

Bert Tanner closed his mouth and glared around at them all silently. ‘Well it seems to me like we’ve got ourselves a thief,’ said Adam delightedly. ‘What are we going to do with him gentlemen?’

 

‘The way I see it we’ve got two choices,’ said Ben. ‘We either lock him up in his own jail for embezzling the town funds, or we put him on the next stage out of town.’ He took his watch out of his pocket and looked at it. ‘Which is in exactly seven minutes from now.’  He shut the watch with a click and looked at Tanner. ‘Which is it to be Tanner?’ he asked.

 

Tanner continued to glare at them all.  After a moment’s hesitation he lifted his hand and slowly took off his sheriff’s badge and flung it onto the floor before marching towards the door.  One of the men took Tanner’s gun from Hoss. ‘We’ll see him onto the stage,’ he said. ‘Be a shame if he missed it don’t you think?’  There was general laughter from the group as a few of the men turned and left the room.

 

Ben slapped his eldest son on the back. ‘Well done Adam!’ he said with a smile. ‘That’s was a brilliant plan.’

 

Adam shrugged modestly. ‘I’m just happy that it worked,’ he said. ‘I was worried that Tanner wouldn’t let me bail Jim out and then he would have been stuck in that jail cell.’

 

‘Well he did,’ said Clem Hawker. ‘Tell me though son.  What made you so sure that he would have deposited the money into the bank instead of just keeping it?’

 

‘The amount,’ replied Adam. ‘I knew that he’d set the bail high just to annoy me.  That’s why I asked you all to put up so much money.  Tanner wasn’t about to keep that much money on him at one time.  After you and Pa had Hank check the town’s account I knew that he’d deposited nothing in there at all during the time he’d been in town.  I just figured that with all the other money he’d been putting aside  … well two hundred dollars on top of that would be too much for him to keep on him that’s all.’  He shrugged again. ‘It was a risk though.’

 

Clem slapped the young man on the back. ‘Well it was a risk that worked,’ he said. ‘Although I suppose we’ll never be able to prove about the rest of the money he took.’

 

‘The most important thing is that we got rid of him,’ said Ben. ‘Now life around here can get back to normal and people can go about their business without thinking that they’re about to be pushed into jail any moment.’  He frowned. ‘Which reminds me,’ he said. ‘We’d better go and get your younger brother out of there.’

 

Clem Hawker nodded. ‘I’ll come with you Ben,’ he said. ‘We’ve got some Town Council business to discuss on the way.’

 

=======

 

Joe smiled at his father and brothers as Ben unlocked the cell door. ‘About time,’ he said as he gave them a cheeky grin. ‘What kept ya?’

 

Hoss leant over and swatted the youngster on the side of his head. ‘You mind ya manners shortshanks or we might just keep ya in there,’ he said. ‘It ain’t too late ta lock ya up again.’

 

Joe sidestepped to get away from the next hit and accidentally stepped on his father’s toe in his haste. ‘Sorry Pa,’ he said. ‘So how come Sheriff Tanner let me out after all?’

 

‘He didn’t,’ replied Ben as he bent down to rub his toe. ‘Sheriff Tanner left on the noon stage. He isn’t in charge around here anymore?’

 

‘He ain’t?’  Joe’s grin suddenly got wider.

 

‘No he ain’t … I mean … no he isn’t,’ replied his father as he caught hold of his son’s arm and steered him towards the door.

 

‘Well then, who is?’ asked Joe. 

 

‘I am,’ said Adam as he pinned the sheriff’s badge on. ‘It seems as if the Town Council needs a replacement for the next two weeks in a hurry and I’ve been elected.’

 

Joe gave his brother a surprised look. ‘You?’ he squeaked. ‘How come you got the job?  You ain’t no lawman.’

 

‘Your brother was deemed the most suitable,’ interrupted Clem Hawker.  He gave Adam a slap on the back. ‘I’m sure you’ll do a fine job son,’ he added. ‘And I thank you Ben for sparing him for us until Roy gets back.’

 

‘I just hope you’re right Mr Hawker,’ said Adam. ‘I really haven’t had any experience at this sort of thing at all though.  I hope I’m doing the right thing by accepting the position.’

 

‘No one around here is likely to step out of line after what they’ve all been through during the past two weeks,’ replied Clem. ‘Besides, if they do you won’t be handling it by yourself. The whole Town Council will be behind you.’

 

‘Not to mention your deputy,’ added Hoss with a grin.

 

‘He gets a deputy?’ squeaked Joe indignantly. ‘How come? Sheriff Coffee never got one!’

 

‘Your brother is going to need one,’ said his father. ‘Besides, I have a feeling that the Town Council will be voting one for Sheriff Coffee as well.  We can’t have him taking off again without leaving any backup around here.’

 

‘Who’s his deputy?’ asked Joe.

 

‘Who do ya think?’ said Hoss proudly as he also pinned on a badge. ‘Don’t ya worry Mr Hawker, us Cartwrights will do the right thing by the town until Roy returns.’

 

‘Oh boy!’ said Joe, his eyes alight. ‘Am I gonna be a deputy too?’

 

‘No you are not,’ said his father firmly. ‘With your two brothers in here keeping the peace you’ll be needed to pick up their extra chores.  You’ll be so busy on the ranch young man, that you won’t have time to worry about such things.’

 

Joe gave his father an appalled look. ‘You ain’t serious Pa!’ he exclaimed. ‘That ain’t fair!’

 

‘We all have to do our part,’ said Adam smugly. ‘And your part is to help Pa while Hoss and I are busy in town.’

 

Joe scowled at his brother. ‘I still say it ain’t fair!’ he said. ‘I wanna be a lawman too!’

 

‘I’d watch it if I were you younger brother,’ said Adam with a smirk. ‘Now that Hoss and I are in charge around here you might just find yourself back in that cell for real.’

 

Joe’s scowl became even darker. ‘You can’t lock me up!’ he said angrily. ‘You ain’t got no cause!’

 

‘Oh I don’t know,’ said Adam, stroking his chin. ‘I’m sure we’ll be able to think of something.  What do you think Hoss?’

 

‘I reckon we could study the Town Charter fer a bit,’ replied his brother with a wink at their Pa.  ‘There’s sure to be something in there bout sassing officers of the law.’

 

Joe shut his mouth quickly and continued to glare at them both. ‘Well good luck boys,’ said Ben as he took hold of his youngest son’s arm again and made for the door. ‘Be careful and look after yourselves.’  He shut the door firmly behind himself and Joe. 

 

=======

 

Roy Coffee stepped down from the stage and looked around with surprise at the smiling crowd around him. ‘What’s happening?’ he asked Ben who had stepped forward to shake his hand. ‘Is there someone important coming in on today’s stage?’

 

‘There sure is,’ replied Ben as he smiled at his friend and the crowd around them broke out into laughter. 

 

‘What’s so funny?’ asked Roy, looking around. ‘What did I say?’

 

‘Did you have a good break Roy?’ asked Ben, putting his arm around the man’s shoulder.

 

‘I sure did!’ Roy replied.  ‘Just what I needed in fact.  I think you were right Ben …  I should make a habit of taking regular breaks from the job from now on.’

 

The crowd was silent for a moment and then Ben slapped the sheriff on the back and laughed. ‘Well if you do Roy … please promise us all one thing.’

 

Roy looked confused. ‘And what would that be?’ he asked.

 

‘Just make sure that you take all of us with you when you go!’  replied Ben with a loud laugh.

 

The End