{"id":10638,"date":"2009-09-06T05:41:35","date_gmt":"2009-09-06T09:41:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=10638"},"modified":"2026-03-07T19:01:03","modified_gmt":"2026-03-08T00:01:03","slug":"breath-of-life","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=10638","title":{"rendered":"Breath of Life (by JoanS)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 A potentially deadly illness sneaks up on the youngest Cartwright.\u00a0 Follow along as, in a moment of true Joe, the family finds themselves racing against time.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (16,720 words)<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Breath of Life<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Doctor Paul Martin shut the door to his office carefully and looked around the bustling street before stepping off the sidewalk. Dodging between the traffic, he marvelled at the way the town was growing. Why, there was a time he could remember when it would have been rare to see anyone on the streets at this time of the day, and now there were people everywhere going about their business. He smiled as he thought of all the customers he had coming through his office lately. Not that he enjoyed seeing people sick of course, but that\u2019s what he was here for after all, and it did him good to know that he was able to help others and make a decent living at the same time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he reached the other side of the street he noticed his friend Ben Cartwright standing outside the Bank and waved to him. He had known Ben from the first days when he had moved to Virginia City and considered him one of his closest friends. He was a man of great integrity and honour and Paul admired the way in which he stood up for what he believed in. He also admired the way he had dealt with the hard knocks that life had thrown in his direction.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Three times widowed, Ben had managed to come through it all and still run the most successful ranch in the Territory. Not to mention raising his three sons at the same time. The boys were a great help to him now, but Paul remembered back over the years when they had needed their father\u2019s guidance and support, and Ben had always been there for them. They were three fine boys, and Paul liked nothing better than to visit the Cartwrights at their home to indulge in an excellent meal and conversation with the family.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He noticed the youngest of Ben\u2019s sons standing next to him as he approached. Joseph, or Little Joe, as he was known to so many, had a special place in Paul\u2019s heart. He had been one of the first babies that Paul had delivered when he had first arrived in the town twelve years ago, and he had watched his development with a special interest. Joseph had been a difficult birth, for not only had he been a breech birth, but he had also been premature and had given his parents quite a bit of concern at the time. Paul considered the boy was lucky to have made it to be honest, and he remembered holding the tiny infant on the night of his birth and despairing at his chances of survival.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But tiny Joseph had beaten all the odds and surprised the doctor and his parents with a tenacious will to live. He had never been what Paul would call a strong child physically, but what he lacked in physical stamina he certainly made up for in sheer will power. Paul had never come across anyone who was as stubborn as this youngster and he smiled as he remembered the many battles he had witnessed between the boy and his father \u2013 often when Paul himself had been in attendance for some medical reason.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben had good cause to worry about that youngest son of his. He had of course experienced his fair share of childhood illnesses along the way, but he had also had his fair share of accidents as well. It seemed like there was never a time when Joseph was completely out of the doctor\u2019s mind, either because he was recovering from some accident or experiencing some illness. No wonder the child looked at him warily whenever he saw him! Paul had noticed a great reluctance on Joseph\u2019s part to have much to do with him, and he really couldn\u2019t blame the boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Ben!\u2019 he said as he shook the rancher\u2019s hand. \u2018How are you today? Hello Joe!\u2019 He added smiling at the boy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Paul! Good to see you,\u2019 answered Ben and looked at Little Joe meaningfully.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Doctor Martin,\u2019 said Joe, looking up at the man from under his hat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018How\u2019s my favourite patient today?\u2019 the doctor asked with a twinkle in his eye.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned at him. \u2018I\u2019m \u2026.. fine,\u2019 he said and turned to his father. \u2018Pa, can I \u2026. go down to the \u2026. store now and meet \u2026. Hoss?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Of course Joseph, just be sure and tell him I want both of you to meet me at the International House for lunch in half an hour,\u2019 Ben replied. \u2018And don\u2019t be late!\u2019 he added as the youngster skipped off. \u2018Well Paul, have you time for a drink?\u2019 he asked as he turned back towards his friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul smiled back at him. \u2018Don\u2019t mind if I do Ben.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the two men walked along the sidewalk towards the saloon, Paul observed the boy moving quickly in front of them. His trained eye had noticed a quickness in the child\u2019s breathing and a faltering in his words, and he wondered if everything was alright with the child. Perhaps it was time he looked him over again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He brought up the subject as soon as they were seated with their drinks. \u2018How\u2019s Joe Ben?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at him with his eyebrows raised. \u2018Joe? He\u2019s fine. Didn\u2019t he look it to you just now?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul took a sip of his drink. \u2018To be honest Ben, no he didn\u2019t,\u2019 he replied. \u2018Since when has he been breathing like that?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018Like what?\u2019 he asked. \u2018I haven\u2019t noticed anything.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He seemed to be finding it a bit difficult to get his breath,\u2019 continued the Doctor. \u2018Had he been running?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Ben with a worried expression on his face. \u2018Not at all.\u2019 He thought for a moment. \u2018I noticed he was clearing his throat quite a bit the other day but he assures me he doesn\u2019t have a cold at all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Well it could be nothing. But all the same I wouldn\u2019t like to take any chances with that youngster. You know how hard last winter was for him Ben.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. The boy had one cold after another and seemed to have a lot of breathing problems for a few months. \u2018Maybe I\u2019ll bring him over to see you this afternoon and you can give him a check over,\u2019 he suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I think that\u2019d be a good idea,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018Although I don\u2019t think you\u2019ll be too popular suggesting it!\u2019 He laughed. \u2018I really don\u2019t think I\u2019m that boy\u2019s favourite person you know!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u2018Well it\u2019s nothing personal Paul. It\u2019s just that nearly every time he sees you it\u2019s because there\u2019s something wrong with him. He likes you really.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I\u2019m sure he does,\u2019 said Paul standing up. \u2018Everyone likes someone who constantly comes at them with a thermometer! I\u2019ll see you later on this afternoon if you can drag him over to my office Ben. Good to see you again.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Thanks Paul, we\u2019ll be there.\u2019 Ben stood up and followed his friend out of the saloon and headed down towards The International House where he was to meet his sons. As he entered the building he smiled to see Adam standing in the corner with a young lady. Since his return from College his eldest son had proven to be quite a catch in the eyes of the young eligible girls of the town, and in their mothers eyes as well. It was unusual for Adam to be seen in such a public place engrossed in conversation with a young lady, as normally he was quite a bit more circumspect than that. This female must be quite special for him to be seen thus.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh hi Pa,\u2019 he said as he saw his father approaching. \u2018This is Beatrice Delaney. I don\u2019t think you\u2019ve met each other?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No we haven\u2019t,\u2019 said Ben extending his hand to the pretty young lady. \u2018Pleased to meet you Beatrice. Are you new in town?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Mr Cartwright,\u2019 Beatrice replied. \u2018Yes my parents have just bought a partnership in the Grain Store with Mr Harrison. We\u2019re living in the old Fairley Homestead.\u2019 She smiled at Adam who looked a little embarrassed as he felt his father\u2019s eye upon him. \u2018Your son has offered to show me around town.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Has he?\u2019 said Ben raising his eyebrow at his son and smiling at him. \u2018And when would this be happening?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis afternoon if it\u2019s alright with you Pa,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018You don\u2019t need me for anything else after lunch do you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No I can\u2019t think of anything,\u2019 said his father with a twinkle in his eye. He turned as he saw his other two sons enter the room. \u2018I\u2019m sure you\u2019ll like our town Beatrice. If you\u2019ll excuse me now I have a luncheon appointment with my three boys.\u2019 He looked at Adam meaningfully. \u2018When you\u2019re ready Adam we\u2019ll be in the Dining Room.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Sure Pa, I\u2019ll be there in a minute,\u2019 he replied, and gave his two brothers a dark look as they noticed who was standing next to him. \u2018Excuse me for a moment while I say goodbye to Beatrice.\u2019 He took the young lady by the arm and led her towards the door quickly before either of his brothers could comment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled at his son\u2019s retreating back, and hustled his other two sons into the Dining Room. As they seated themselves at a table in the corner, Hoss said with a touch too much innocence to sound genuine. \u2018And who was Adam talking to?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018None of your business,\u2019 said Adam as he seated himself next to his middle brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Looked like she was a bit gone on you older brother!\u2019 declared Hoss with a grin. He liked nothing better than baiting his older brother about his love life, and Little Joe was always quick to follow.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Adam\u2019s \u2026..sweet on a \u2026..girl!\u2019 he declared with a wicked look in his eye. Ben glanced over at him sharply, as he noticed the hesitation in his words. Perhaps Paul was right! The boy seemed to be breathing somewhat shallowly and needed to take a breath every few words in order to get out a sentence. He resolved to make sure they kept that appointment straight after lunch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam glared at both his brothers. \u2018Beatrice is no concern of yours!\u2019 he said heatedly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss spluttered into his glass of water. \u2018Beatrice!\u2019 he snickered. \u2018What kind of name is Beatrice?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018A \u2026. funny one!\u2019 declared Little Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I think it\u2019s a lovely name!\u2019 said Adam with a frown.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Better than Abigail, eh?\u2019 said Hoss with another snicker, and Little Joe joined in gleefully. They all knew to whom Hoss was referring. Abigail Jones, school teacher and general busybody around town had her sights very squarely placed on the oldest Cartwright son, and nothing could seem to convince her that Adam wasn\u2019t in the slightest bit interested in her. He would go to great lengths to avoid any contact with the woman, who was rather priggish and full of her own importance, and hated the ribbing that his two brothers took great delight in indulging themselves in.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s enough boys,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018We came here to eat, and I think we should order don\u2019t you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned gratefully towards his father and acknowledged the diversion with a grateful smile. \u2018Thank you Pa,\u2019 he said. \u2018It\u2019s nice to see that someone around here knows what is and isn\u2019t their business.\u2019 He stopped as he caught the look in Ben\u2019s eye. \u2018I mean, not that it\u2019s not your\u2026. I mean\u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben held up his hand and pointed to the menu. \u2018Let\u2019s just order,\u2019 he said. \u2018Joseph what are you having?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe made a face at his father. \u2018I don\u2019t \u2026. really feel \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll order for you if you can\u2019t decide,\u2019 said his father with a meaningful look at his youngest son. It was always an ongoing battle between the two of them as to how much the boy ate. Ben felt, and he knew that Paul agreed with him, that Joe never ate enough, and he was always very conscious of trying to get something substantial into him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed and looked at the menu in his hand. He searched for something that sounded light and sighed again as he noticed his father looking at him intently. As the waiter approached them he listened to the other orders and then said. \u2018Can I just \u2026.. have a little \u2026.. bit of \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph will have the beef stew,\u2019 interrupted his father. \u2018Thank you.\u2019 He took the menu out of his son\u2019s hands and noticed as he did so the pout on his face. \u2018And you can get that look off your face Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018Beef stew is good for you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe continued to pout at his father, and sat back in his chair with his arms folded across his chest. Treating me like a baby!<\/em> He thought. Why does he bother asking if he doesn\u2019t let me say what I want? Don\u2019t want any old beef stew anyway!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Ben ignored his son\u2019s mini tantrum and turned towards his middle son again. \u2018So Hoss, did you get all the supplies?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Throughout the remainder of the meal, the older three Cartwrights ate heartily while Little Joe pushed his food around his plate for most of the time. After the first few bites he had had enough and really didn\u2019t see why he should push himself to eat any more. Unfortunately his father didn\u2019t quite see it that way, and constantly tapped on the edge of his plate to remind him to eat another forkful. Joe sighed dramatically each time and put as little onto his fork as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time Adam stood up to leave, Joe had eaten about half of what was on his plate and the compromise that he and his father usually reached had been achieved. \u2018Have fun \u2026. with \u2026 Beatrice!\u2019 he giggled as he stole a look at Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah don\u2019t worry older brother, we won\u2019t tell Miss Abigail on ya!\u2019 Hoss added.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam gave them both a dark look and turned to leave. \u2018Thanks for lunch Pa,\u2019 he said over his shoulder. \u2018I\u2019ll see you back home later on.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben put down his napkin and turned to Hoss. \u2018Son could you think of something to do for an hour or so? I\u2019ve got an appointment to keep now and it might take a while.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss grinned at him. \u2018Sure thing Pa! I\u2019ve been wanting ta see that new black Charlie\u2019s got down at the Livery Stable. I\u2019ll meet ya there. Come on shortshanks,\u2019 he motioned to his younger brother who stood up to go with him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No Joseph, I want you to come with me,\u2019 said his father as he stood and held the boy by the arm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up at him surprised. \u2018Why? Where are we \u2026. going Pa?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018To see Doctor Martin,\u2019 his father replied as he tightened his grip on the boy\u2019s arm. \u2018Come along.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe frowned and planted his feet firmly on the floor as he tried to resist his father. \u2018Why? I ain\u2019t \u2026 sick, and you \u2026.just saw him \u2026. before! Why are \u2026. we going over \u2026. there?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Because I want him to take a look at you,\u2019 replied his father as he led him out of the door. \u2018Come along.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul Martin looked up as the two Cartwrights entered his office, and was immediately struck by the difference in their expressions. \u2018Ben! Joseph! Good to see you again!\u2019 he said as he stood up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben acknowledged the doctor\u2019s greeting with a nod, and kept his grip on his son\u2019s arm. \u2018We\u2019re here to have you take a look at Joseph as we discussed,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave his father a dark look. So they had already been talking about him behind his back! He gave the doctor a look that made the man wonder how on earth he was going to be able to examine him when he was like this.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Fine,\u2019 he said. \u2018Joseph would you get up on the examining table please?\u2019 He moved over to get his stethoscope.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Joe didn\u2019t move, his father gave him a slight push towards the table. \u2018You heard the doctor Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018Sit up on the table.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I \u2026. ain\u2019t sick!\u2019 Joe declared. \u2018Don\u2019t need \u2026.. to see \u2026. him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I didn\u2019t say you were sick son. I just think it would be a good idea for you to have a check up,\u2019 his father answered. \u2018Now get up on the table.\u2019 He led the boy towards the examining table and waited for him to move onto it. Joe resisted his father angrily, so after a moment Ben lifted him up under the arms and sat him on the table himself.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Take off your shirt please Joe,\u2019 said Paul walking over with his stethoscope. \u2018I want to listen to your breathing.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018There ain\u2019t \u2026. nothing wrong \u2026.. with my \u2026.. breathing!\u2019 Joe declared, glaring at both men in front of him. When neither of them answered he sighed and began to slowly undo his buttons. Ben reached over and took the boy\u2019s shirt as he removed it, and then stood back to give Paul room to move.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the doctor put the stethoscope on his chest and listened Joe sat motionless, his face showing his displeasure at what was happening. \u2018Take a deep breath Joe,\u2019 Paul said. \u2018I want you to hold it for me for a minute.\u2019 Joe did as he was told, but was unable to hold the breath for very long. Paul looked at him as he listened through his stethoscope and said. \u2018Again please.\u2019 Joe tried to take another deep breath but ended up in a coughing fit that lasted for a full minute. The doctor stepped back and waited for him to finish before speaking. \u2018How long have you been finding it hard to breathe?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It ain\u2019t \u2026. hard for \u2026. me to breathe!\u2019 declared Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You\u2019re finding it hard to get all your words out, and that\u2019s a sure sign that there\u2019s something wrong with your breathing,\u2019 said the doctor. \u2018Besides, I can hear it Joe. Your lungs are struggling a bit as you take a breath. There\u2019s a rattling sound like wheezing as well.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe just sat and glared at him. Paul moved around the table and placed the stethoscope on the boy\u2019s back. \u2018Breathe again,\u2019 he instructed, and Joe took a large breath and held it, glaring at the doctor in defiance as he did so. Paul tapped around on the boy\u2019s back for a few minutes as he listened through his stethoscope, then took it out of his ears. \u2018Thank you Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018You can put your shirt back on again.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben handed his son his shirt and both men watched as the boy put it back on and began to do up the buttons. Paul looked at Ben over the top of the boy\u2019s head and shook his head slightly. \u2018Why don\u2019t you go down and wait with Hoss now Joe?\u2019 asked his father. \u2018\u2019I\u2019ll meet you at the Livery Stable in a while.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe jumped down from the examining table. \u2018You want \u2026. me to go so \u2026. you can talk about \u2026 me!\u2019 he said angrily.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

His father shook his head slightly. \u2018All right. If you want to stay you can, but you may not like what you hear,\u2019 he said. \u2018Sit down.\u2019 He motioned to a chair in the corner of the office and sat down next to his son. \u2018Paul?\u2019 he looked at the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul came over and sat next to them both. \u2018Joe\u2019s lungs are quite congested,\u2019 he began. \u2018That\u2019s not really surprising given the fact that he\u2019s having difficulty breathing.\u2019 Joe slumped down in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest at hearing these words. \u2018After the problems he had last winter I think it\u2019s what I have suspected for a while.\u2019 He looked at Ben enquiringly, but the other man motioned for him to continue. \u2018I think Joe has asthma,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up at the doctor with a puzzled look on his face, but his jaw was clamped shut and he refused to ask the question that was on his mind. Ben saw the look and asked it for him. \u2018Could you please explain for us what that is exactly Paul?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s when the airways become constricted, \u2018 began the Doctor. \u2018That\u2019s why Joe would be having difficulty in breathing.\u2019 He looked at the boy. \u2018\u2019Does your chest feel tight Joe?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe said nothing, but gazed at the floor in front of him. \u2018Joseph answer the doctor please,\u2019 said Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 he said with a clenched jaw. \u2018Sometimes.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well that\u2019s part of this condition too,\u2019 continued the doctor. \u2018The coughing as well. I take it that you have these coughing fits every now and then?\u2019 Joe caught his father\u2019s eye and nodded briefly at the doctor. \u2018It all fits the pattern of asthma,\u2019 said Paul.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What causes the airway to become constricted?\u2019 asked Ben, and noticed that Joe was also listening intently, although pretending not to. \u2018Is there anything that we can do to help Joe breathe more easily?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It can be caused by quite a few things,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018It could be pollens in the air, or even over exercise.\u2019 He stopped. \u2018Do you ever notice it\u2019s hard for you to breathe after you\u2019ve been moving around a lot Joe?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up at him, then at his father. He shrugged his shoulders. \u2018Joseph!\u2019 Ben felt his anger with the boy mounting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sometimes,\u2019 Joe said looking back at the floor again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It could even be the weather,\u2019 continued Paul. \u2018That would account for all those problems Joe had last winter. It\u2019s not unusual for asthma to be brought about by cold air.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So what can we do about it?\u2019 asked Ben again. \u2018There must be something we can do to help this condition.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Actually yes, there\u2019s quite a bit,\u2019 said Paul with a smile. \u2018Asthma is something that has to be treated carefully, but there\u2019s no reason why Joseph can\u2019t continue to do most of the things he\u2019s used to as long as he\u2019s careful.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up at the doctor cautiously. \u2018Like what?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well for one thing you have to be extra careful about over doing it when it comes to exercising,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018No over-exerting yourself young man. It would be helpful if you learned to monitor your activity and got used to knowing when to stop.\u2019 Joe looked at him warily. \u2018For instance, there\u2019s to be no more galloping around at breakneck speed on that horse of yours.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at him appalled. \u2018You mean \u2026. I can\u2019t ride \u2026. Cochise anymore?\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The doctor shook his head. \u2018That\u2019s not what I said. Of course you can ride your horse.\u2019 Joe sat back in his chair looking quite relieved. \u2018It\u2019s just that if you feel breathing is difficult you have to stop,\u2019 the doctor continued. \u2018There are ways of riding a horse that don\u2019t involve galloping all the time you know Joe.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Unfortunately this young man has yet to learn them,\u2019 said Ben with a twinkle in his eye. \u2018Joseph it seems like you might have to just learn about trotting and walking Cochise some of the time. What else Paul?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well there should be no running around, no climbing trees, that sort of thing,\u2019 said the doctor. \u2018Just take it sensibly Joe, and there shouldn\u2019t be any problem. Do you understand me?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded, but didn\u2019t look too happy about it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018There is also some medicine I can mix up for him,\u2019 said the Doctor. \u2018It should help if he does get an asthma attack.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you,\u2019 said Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018The problem may become a bit worse during the winter months, and that\u2019s where I\u2019ll need to check him regularly,\u2019 said Paul. \u2018Judging by what happened last winter we\u2019ll need to keep an eye on him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Can I go now?\u2019 Joe asked, looking at his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes you may. Go straight down to the Livery Stable and wait for me there.\u2019 The two men watched as the boy left the room, then Ben turned towards the doctor again. \u2018Is there anything else Paul?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No I think that just about covers it Ben. Just keep an eye on him, and let me know if you want me to see him again. If he does have an attack, then send for me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018How will I know if he\u2019s having an attack?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh don\u2019t worry, you\u2019ll know! It can be a bit frightening at first if you\u2019re not used to it, but don\u2019t panic about it. He\u2019ll just have difficulty breathing for a while, and may experience some tightness around his chest. He could be pale and sweat a bit, and his heart rate could increase. Just take it easy with him and encourage him to be still and breath slowly. Give him some of the medicine and that should help. It\u2019s a relaxant. If he still has problems after a few doses of it, then you\u2019ll need to send for me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Thank you Paul. I\u2019ll have another talk with him and make sure he understands about taking it easy.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Make sure you do Ben. That boy is a real live-wire, and he needs to understand about taking things calmly and slowly for a while.\u2019 He stood and shook his friend\u2019s hand. \u2018Good luck with convincing him of that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded and left the office. As he stood on the porch he noticed Adam on the other side of the street with Beatrice. Suddenly he noticed his son pull the girl into the doorway of the store they were standing next to and watched puzzled as they disappeared into it as quickly as they could. For a moment he wondered why, until he saw Abigail Jones approaching from the other direction. Smiling to himself and shaking his head, he walked towards the Livery Stable.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s two to me!\u2019 said Joe as he gathered up the marbles and put them safely into his drawstring bag. \u2018Who\u2019s next?\u2019 There was a murmur amongst the cluster of boys as they all counted up their marbles.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Not me!\u2019 said Billy. \u2018I ain\u2019t got any more I want to bet with.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018How about you Mitch?\u2019 asked Joe. \u2018You want to try for that blue-glass one I got?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018OK,\u2019 said Mitch. \u2018I\u2019ll try you with this red!\u2019 The two boys bent back over the circle they had drawn in the dirt and lowered their heads as they concentrated. Mitch took the first shot and knocked Joe\u2019s marble straight out of the circle in one go.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Great shot!\u2019 said Joe, clapping his friend on the back. \u2018I hate to lose that blue one though!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Mitch chuckled with glee as he pocketed both marbles. \u2018That\u2019ll teach you to mess with me Cartwright!\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hey let\u2019s go down to the creek!\u2019 said Billy and all the boys stood up and followed him. Mitch hesitated for a moment. \u2018You coming Joe?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head and concentrated on counting out his marbles again. \u2018Nah. You go ahead Mitch. I\u2019ll be OK here.\u2019 He watched as his friend ran after the other boys down towards the creek and sighed. He knew that the boys were going to the creek for one reason, and that was to climb the large tree that grew next to its banks and see how far they could jump from it without getting wet. It was one of their favourite pastimes at lunchtime, and one that Joe enjoyed as much as any of them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Used to enjoy!<\/em> he thought as he viciously kicked a stone with the tip of his boot. It was just the sort of activity that was not allowed now \u2013 his father and Doctor Martin had made that abundantly clear to him. It seemed that every time he turned around lately there was something he wasn\u2019t allowed to do, and for the active boy that he was, it was becoming harder and harder for him to sit by and watch his friends all indulge in games that were now not allowed to him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was becoming very good at pretending that it just didn\u2019t matter to him whether he joined in or not, but the truth was that he hurt every time someone suggested a game that he couldn\u2019t be a part of. The hardest thing for him was the continual reminder that his father and brothers issued to him whenever they saw him trying to do something that they felt he shouldn\u2019t. Joe slow down! Joe<\/em> just take it easy! <\/em>He was sick and tired of them all watching him every minute and telling him to stop doing things!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t as if he had had any kind of attack after all! Well, maybe just a few, but they were only little ones and he had managed to breathe properly after only a few minutes. The medicine that Doctor Martin had given him had really helped, and he had learned when to use it as he felt the need. His father insisted that he keep a bottle of it in his saddlebag at all times, and Miss Jones had one in her desk in case he needed it at school as well as Pa having one at home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He cringed at the thought of having to ask for any in front of his friends. Up until now he had managed to hide it from most of them, and those close friends whom he had told about the asthma had been sworn to secrecy. Joe didn\u2019t want to see pity in anyone\u2019s eyes when he couldn\u2019t do things, but mostly he didn\u2019t want anyone having the chance to make fun of him. So he mostly kept the condition to himself and pretended that he really didn\u2019t want to climb or run or do any of the other things that they urged him to.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He had also learned to keep some of his breathing problems to himself. His father and brothers were bad enough without letting them know just how many times he did find it hard to breathe. He learned to simply keep his distance from them whenever he was having breathing problems, and was becoming very good at the calming techniques that Doctor Martin had begun to teach him. That Doctor was the worst! Every time he saw Joe, the boy felt like he was being studied for any kind of problem. He dreaded it when Pa made him go into the doctor\u2019s office which he now did on a regular basis, and tried to give the man the least amount of information as possible. There was no way that Joe was going to admit to all the breathing problems that he had, for he felt that the doctor and his father were simply going to overreact if he did. So he bided his time and learned the art of concealment very well.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he sat on the ground pretending to be very interested in counting his marbles, one person watched him carefully. Miss Abigail Jones sat on the porch of the schoolhouse and watched the younger children as they played in the shade, but she was acutely aware of the older boy as he sat with his shoulders hunched over his marbles. Once again she felt great sympathy for the boy as she watched the other children leave him out of their game.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben had called on the teacher soon after Doctor Martin\u2019s diagnosis to let her know of Joe\u2019s condition. He had asked her to keep a bottle of the medicine in her desk in case the boy should need it, and let her know what to do if he did have an asthma attack. Abigail had tried to talk to Joseph about it, but the boy had merely shrugged off her comments as if he didn\u2019t care. Abigail, however, knew differently. She, more than anyone, had witnessed the daily problems the boy had to deal with at the hands of his friends. Not that they meant to hurt him of course! She was sure that none of them even knew what was going on. But she saw the disappointment and frustration in the boy\u2019s eyes as he constantly had to pretend that he didn\u2019t care for their rowdy games any more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Marbles and a few other quiet activities were all that were left to him, and he was dependent upon the whims of the others as to whether or not they would be played each day. As the days passed Abigail noticed the boy gradually withdrawing into himself and becoming quieter, something that worried her greatly. It was so out of character for Joseph to behave in this way! She resolved to speak to his father about it at the first chance she got.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She watched as Joe stood up and walked over to the other end of the porch where he sat quietly. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked over to her. \u2018Yes Miss Jones?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Why don\u2019t you go down to the creek with the other boys? You could sit and watch them,\u2019 she suggested, trying to give him something to do.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He looked away from her. \u2018No, I\u2019m OK here,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll go wiv ya Joe,\u2019 said a small voice beside him, and he looked around to see little Timmy Carter standing there. \u2018We could catch tadpoles.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u2018Nah. You go ahead kid,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m not into catching tadpoles no more.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Please Joe?\u2019 the little boy pleaded. \u2018Please?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Oh all right!\u2019 Joe said crossly. \u2018But just for a few minutes.\u2019 He stomped off in the direction of the creek, with Timmy trotting happily behind him. As they approached the creek he sat under a small tree and watched as the younger child began to busily trap tadpoles in a small dam he built, but his eyes quickly darted over to where the boys of his own age were swinging amongst the high branches.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on Joe!\u2019 called out Billy. \u2018Why don\u2019t you climb up here?\u2019 Joe shook his head and indicated Timmy who was paddling in the creek. \u2018Aw come on!\u2019 continued Billy, he\u2019ll be OK. Come on up!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stared up into the branches, sorely tempted to do as the other boy urged him to. After all, he reasoned, it wasn\u2019t really that high. It wasn\u2019t as if Pa had said he couldn\u2019t do it, he had just said it wouldn\u2019t be a very good idea. Joe reasoned that if he went slowly he would probably be al right. I won\u2019t swing out,<\/em> he thought. I\u2019ll just go straight up and then climb back down again.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Will you be OK here for a minute Timmy?\u2019 he asked, and the little boy nodded at him. \u2018I won\u2019t be long,\u2019 he said as he got to his feet and made his way over towards the tree.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on Joe!\u2019 called Billy again. \u2018Up here!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up through the branches and grinned. \u2018Coming!\u2019 he shouted back. Tentatively he hoisted himself onto the lowest branch, feeling extremely guilty as he did so. Once he was standing on it, however, all thoughts of guilt left his mind and he climbed upwards towards where his friends were hanging. \u2018Shove over!\u2019 he said to Mitch. \u2018Let me up there!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Mitch moved over to give his friend space to sit. He looked at him anxiously. \u2018Are you supposed to be up here Joe?\u2019 he asked softly so that no one else could hear. \u2018Your Pa would kill you if he knew you were climbing trees!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glared at him. \u2018Well he ain\u2019t here and he don\u2019t know!\u2019 he snarled. \u2018I\u2019m fine!\u2019 He turned when Billy yelled as he swung out over the creek on his branch next to them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeehaw!!!\u2019 the boy yelled. \u2018Come on Mitch and Joe!\u2019 Mitch gave Joe a crooked smile and stood up to follow suit. Joe sat there for a moment watching his friends, and then suddenly stood up, caught hold of the branch he was sitting on and turned himself upside down in like fashion. As he swayed upside down giggling out loud he felt freer than he had in a long time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The sound of the bell caused the boys to quickly right themselves and swing down from the branches. Joe was the first to land on the ground with a thump. And sat looking up through the branches as his friends all descended as well. The boys sat for a few moments to catch their breath, laughing at themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on!\u2019 said Joe standing up. We\u2019re going to get into trouble if we\u2019re not careful.\u2019 He turned towards the schoolhouse and began to walk across the field. Glancing over his shoulder to make sure that little Timmy was also on his way, he was quickly overtaken by the others who were racing each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on Joe!\u2019 Billy called over his shoulder. \u2018Hurry up!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe grinned at him and waved him on, careful to walk without hurrying too much. Now that his feet were firmly on the ground again he felt somewhat guilty and made sure that he was careful in how he moved now. As he neared the schoolhouse he checked his breathing and was pleased to feel that it seemed to be normal. Feeling somewhat smug, he entered and took his place with the others.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Sit down quickly please Joseph,\u2019 said Miss Jones as he slid into his seat. \u2018You are the last one in!\u2019 Joe looked at Mitch and grinned at him, then turned his attention to the side where a group of the smaller boys were arguing silently over a small lizard that one of them had brought in. \u2018Put that outside please boys,\u2019 said Miss Jones. \u2018Joseph are you listening to me?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe quickly looked back at the teacher who was standing in front of him. \u2018Yes Miss Jones,\u2019 he said meekly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Good. Now the details about the picnic will be as follows\u2026\u2026\u2019 Her voice droned on and on, as Joe wondered what on earth she was talking about.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He leant over to Mitch. \u2018What picnic?\u2019 he whispered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018The Easter Picnic stupid!\u2019 hissed back his friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes lit up. The Easter Picnic was always something that they all looked forward to. It took place each year at the end of term just before their Easter Break, and was quite an event. There were always lots of games with prizes and everyone brought their picnics to share with each other. It usually took place on Bluff Peak, and Joe wasn\u2019t surprised to hear Miss Jones mention the spot again.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So class we\u2019ll all assemble here at the usual time with our picnic baskets, and travel together as far as Deer Meadow. From there it will be necessary to walk. Please make sure that you are all on time on Friday, as we won\u2019t be waiting for anyone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a general murmur around the classroom as everyone took in the information. \u2018Hey Joe!\u2019 said Mitch, \u2018you want to share lunches on that day?\u2019 When Joe didn\u2019t respond, he poked him in the ribs and repeated the question. \u2018Hey Joe, I said do you want to share lunches on that day?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at him and nodded his head. He was beginning to feel a bit anxious and didn\u2019t want his friend to notice, so he turned away and looked out the window again. As the class began to open their readers he stared at the tree outside and tried to still his heart which seemed to be beating a mile a minute, as he anxiously concentrated on breathing slowly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph open your reader please!\u2019 Miss Jones\u2019 voice cut across his thoughts and he opened his desk to do as she instructed him to. As he stared at the page in front of him he began to realise that his worst fears were coming true, and his breathing was becoming somewhat erratic. He tried to concentrate on the words in front of him, but they made no sense to him and the voices around him seemed to come from far away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly Miss Jones was at his side. \u2018Joseph! I said would you begin to read please!\u2019 she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe studied the book in front of him and tried to take a deep breath. He hesitated, and Miss Jones said again, \u2018Joseph!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He looked up at her. \u2018I \u2026. I\u2026. can\u2019t!\u2026. I need\u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She frowned at him as she noticed his breathing, and quickly moved towards her desk and took the bottle of medicine from it. \u2018Class, read silently!\u2019 she commanded, and took Joe by the arm as she led him out of the back door. \u2018Here,\u2019 she said as she held the medicine out to him. \u2018Have a swallow of this.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took the bottle and gulped down a mouthful. He leant against the wall to steady himself and tried to take slow breaths. \u2018You come with me,\u2019 said Miss Jones. \u2018We\u2019re going over to the doctor\u2019s office.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u2018No,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail took him by the arm again. \u2018I\u2019ll have no arguments Joseph, come with me please.\u2019 She pulled him down the steps of the porch and over towards the gate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No,\u2019 said Joe again as he tried to prise her fingers off his arm, but the woman took no notice of him. Joe suddenly felt his knees buckle underneath him and he slid to the ground. Abigail knelt beside him and pulled him to his feet again, supporting him with one arm around his waist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Come on,\u2019 she said. \u2018We\u2019re going over to the Doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It only took a few minutes for them to reach Doctors Martin\u2019s office. As they entered, Paul took one look at the boy\u2019s pale and sweating face and was over to him in two steps. He picked him up, noting as he did so his forced breathing. As he laid him on the examining table he asked Abigail over his shoulder, \u2018Did you give him any of the medicine?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes,\u2019 she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail watched as Paul undid the boy\u2019s buttons and reached for his stethoscope. \u2018After a moment she said, \u2018Doctor I\u2019ll have to get back to my students. I\u2019ll leave Joseph with you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul didn\u2019t take his eyes off the boy on the table as he said. \u2018Yes of course Miss Jones. On your way could you please stop at the Mercantile? I just saw Adam Cartwright over there. He\u2019ll be able to let his father know what\u2019s happened.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Of course,\u2019 said Abigail and left the room. She hurried straight over to The Mercantile Store and entered it quickly. \u2018Excuse me,\u2019 she said to Sam Winters who stood behind the counter, \u2018Is Adam Cartwright here?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Sam looked around surprised. \u2018He was a moment ago,\u2019 he said. \u2018That\u2019s strange! He and Beatrice Delaney were standing right over there.\u2019 He motioned over to the other side of the shop.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail frowned. \u2018Well if you see him could you please tell him I need to speak to him? It\u2019s about his brother Joseph. He\u2019s over at the doctor\u2019s I\u2019m afraid.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a sudden movement behind her, and she turned in surprise to see Adam standing there after all. \u2018Why Adam!\u2019 she exclaimed. \u2018I didn\u2019t see you there a minute ago.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked rather embarrassed. \u2018Well I was just \u2026.. I mean we were on the floor looking for\u2026.. something,\u2019 he ended lamely. \u2018Weren\u2019t we Beatrice?\u2019 The girl beside him nodded, an amused smile on her face. Abigail looked at her darkly. \u2018What\u2019s this about my brother?\u2019 Adam asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail tore her eyes away from appraising Beatrice for a moment. \u2018Joseph is over at the doctor\u2019s office,\u2019 she said. \u2018He had an asthma attack and I\u2019ve just taken him over there.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam turned to Beatrice with a worried expression on his face. \u2018Would you excuse me please Beatrice? I have to go to my brother.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Of course,\u2019 said the girl. \u2018I hope he\u2019s all right.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail watched as Adam left the store and turned to Beatrice again. \u2018Abigail Jones,\u2019 she said holding out her hand. \u2018Pleased to meet you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Beatrice smiled at her. \u2018Nice to meet you Abigail,\u2019 she said. \u2018I\u2019m Beatrice Delaney. I\u2019m new in town.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Obviously,\u2019 said Abigail with a forced smile. \u2018Being new in town I suppose you are still trying to sort out just who belongs with whom around here.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I beg your pardon?\u2019 said Beatrice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019d be happy to introduce you to some eligible men if you\u2019d like,\u2019 said Abigail. \u2018There are quite a few young men who I\u2019m sure would be happy to get to know you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Well thank you, but Adam is handling my introductions to people quite well.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail gave her another dark look. \u2018Well, yes that\u2019s just like Adam Cartwright, he\u2019s always courteous to people who are in need. It\u2019s a shame he isn\u2019t available isn\u2019t it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He isn\u2019t?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No I\u2019m afraid not. You see Adam and I have quite an understanding between us. I\u2019m sorry if he didn\u2019t tell you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Beatrice frowned. \u2018No he didn\u2019t,\u2019 she said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well the offer still stands for those introductions,\u2019 said Abigail sweetly. \u2018You just let me know. I must get back to my pupils now.\u2019 she left the store smiling as she went, leaving Beatrice with an angry and puzzled look on her face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

———–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I just don\u2019t understand why it happened,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018There doesn\u2019t seem to be any reason for it. At least none that Joseph can remember.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul put down his coffee cup and crossed his legs as he looked into the fireplace. \u2018It could have been nothing much Ben. Who knows what it would take to trigger an attack. It wasn\u2019t a bad one though, so be grateful for that.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018I know. It\u2019s just that when I saw you and Adam with him in the buckboard, I suppose I panicked a bit.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s understandable. I told you that these attacks can be a bit frightening the first time you witness them. I was just grateful that Adam happened to be in town and was available to help me get him home so quickly. That boy was bound and determined to get out of my office as soon as he could. Are you sure he likes me?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The two men laughed. \u2018I\u2019ve told you not to take it personally,\u2019 said Ben with a twinkle in his eye. \u2018My youngest son is a very stubborn boy.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul stood up. \u2018Well I\u2019d better get going,\u2019 he said. \u2018Keep an eye on him today, but he should be all right to return to school tomorrow if his breathing returns to normal.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben held out his hand to the doctor. \u2018Thank you Paul,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul shook his head. \u2018Don\u2019t thank me. Abigail Jones is the one you should be grateful to. If it wasn\u2019t for her quick action this could have been a lot more serious.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes, I\u2019ll make sure that I see her and let her know how grateful I am,\u2019 he said. \u2018Or maybe I\u2019ll send Adam in to thank her personally.\u2019 He didn\u2019t need to elaborate on why, and both men exchanged a grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Now don\u2019t you forget Joseph, you are to wait for your brother to pick you up this afternoon. You\u2019re not to ride home by yourself,\u2019 said Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slumped down on his chair. \u2018Don\u2019t see why I have to,\u2019 he said. \u2018I\u2019m fine.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I know you\u2019re fine, but I just want to keep an eye on you today after that attack yesterday,\u2019 said his father patiently. \u2018Hoss will ride in with you this morning and Adam will be there to ride home with you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his oldest brother. \u2018Just don\u2019t tell anyone why you\u2019re there will you Adam?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t worry, your secret\u2019s safe with me, \u2018replied Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Good,\u2019 said Joe relieved. \u2018I don\u2019t want anyone knowing about it. Specially with the picnic coming up on Friday.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018What picnic?\u2019 asked Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018The Easter one that we have each year,\u2019 replied Little Joe. \u2018You know Pa. It\u2019s on this Friday.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Mmm. Just where is it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018At Bluff Peak\u2019 replied Joe. \u2018There\u2019s going to be prizes and everything. Do you think Hop Sing will give me extra lunch to trade?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I wouldn\u2019t tell him you\u2019re going to trade any of his food if you know what\u2019s good for you,\u2019 said Hoss with a laugh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I don\u2019t mean to give it away!\u2019 declared Joe. \u2018We just trade. Everyone does it!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe I don\u2019t know if it\u2019s a good idea for you to go on the picnic this year,\u2019 interrupted Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe stopped chewing and looked at his father with an appalled expression on his face. \u2018What do you mean Pa? I have to go!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018It\u2019s just that Bluff Peak is quite a steep climb. I don\u2019t know if it would be a good idea for you to try it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t worry,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I\u2019ll be real careful and take it slow Pa. I\u2019ll be OK,\u2019 he said confidently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Even so, I don\u2019t think it\u2019s a good idea,\u2019 repeated his father. \u2018I\u2019d prefer you to stay at home.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe clenched his jaw in anger and frustration. \u2018I have to go!\u2019 he said. \u2018Everyone\u2019s going!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Everyone except you,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018That\u2019s an end to it Joseph.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stared at the table trying to hold back the tears that threatened to fall.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Pa?\u2019 said Adam. \u2018How about if I go too to keep an eye on him?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his brother gratefully and smiled. He turned to his father. \u2018How about it Pa? With Adam along I\u2019d be alright.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben hesitated. \u2018Well I don\u2019t know\u2026\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019ll be fine Pa. You know I wouldn\u2019t let him do anything stupid,\u2019 interrupted Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at his youngest son and noted the pleading look in his eyes. He sighed. \u2018Well all right. As long as you understand there is to be no silliness Joseph. You are to take it easy, and do exactly as your brother tells you to. Do you understand?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes sir,\u2019 said Joe with a grin. He turned towards Adam. \u2018Thanks Adam! Only there\u2019s just one thing \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam raised his eyebrow. \u2018What?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well \u2026. can you not tell everyone why you\u2019re there? Can you just pretend you\u2019re helping out with the games or something?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe I think some of the others might work it out,\u2019 began Adam.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No, they won\u2019t,\u2019 said Joe. \u2018I\u2019ve only told a couple of kids and they won\u2019t tell. Please Adam?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well Miss Jones will have to know,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I think you\u2019d better see her about it when you pick up Joseph this afternoon.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam groaned. \u2018I forgot about her,\u2019 he sighed. \u2018I suppose I\u2019ll have to talk to her about it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll do it!\u2019 said Little Joe, anxious to please. \u2018I\u2019ll explain it for you!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018All right,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018But make sure that you tell it properly.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I will,\u2019 said his little brother with a big smile. \u2018Thanks Adam!\u2019`<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So if you don\u2019t mind Miss Jones,\u2019 Little Joe explained, \u2018my brother really wants to come with us.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Does he?\u2019 said Abigail, her eyes shining. \u2018Of course if that\u2019s what he wants, then we\u2019d be delighted to have him. Tell your brother that for me please Joseph.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes ma\u2019am,\u2019 replied Joe. \u2018I sure will.\u2019 He hesitated. \u2018He kind of wants to keep on eye on me too. Pa said to tell you that as well.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail smiled at him with a far away expression. \u2018What was that? Oh yes of course Joseph, whatever you want.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe left the schoolhouse and went over to where his horse was saddled to wait for Adam. As he leant against the fence he wondered about the schoolteacher. He sure couldn\u2019t figure her out sometimes! Just when he thought she was just about as crabby as could be, she went all gooey and nice. He shook his head. Women! I\u2019ll never understand why Adam goes all mushy over them.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Just at that moment his older brother rode up. \u2018Come on,\u2019 he said. \u2018I haven\u2019t got all day to wait around for you! Did you speak to Abigail Jones?\u2019 he asked as Joe mounted his horse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded his head. \u2018Yep, sure did. She said she\u2019d be delighted to have you come.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I\u2019ll bet she did!\u2019 Adam said grumpily and turned his horse towards the trail. He was in a bad mood this afternoon, and collecting his younger brother from school had done nothing to lighten it. For some unknown reason Beatrice had avoided him when she saw him in town earlier, and he couldn\u2019t for the life of him figure out why.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe slow down!\u2019 he called after his brother. \u2018You know what Pa said about not galloping off like that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slowed down to a walk and fell into step beside his brother, and the two of them rode side by side out of the town.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The moment he opened his eyes he knew. He could tell from the first breath he took, or rather tried to take, that it was happening again. Joe shut his eyes again and tried to concentrate on taking in a breath and letting it out slowly. To his dismay, as he drew the air into his lungs he heard the unmistakable wheezing sound that signalled an attack was upon him. He beat the bedcovers with his fists in frustration as he lay there, willing it to go away.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few more attempts at drawing in a decent breath made him realise that it was futile to hope, he opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling. Why today? It\u2019s not fair! <\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He reached over for the bottle of medicine that was sitting on the chest of drawers next to his bed and pulled off the top. Taking a large gulp before placing it back on the chest, he lay back and thought about the day ahead of him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe knew that he had to be careful, or his father might object to him going after all, and he just couldn\u2019t bear the thought of missing out on this day after all his plans and the excitement attached to it. He lay as still as he could, trying to give the medicine time to work it\u2019s way into his system as he thought about all the wonderful things he would be doing later on with his friends.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Having Adam along was going to make it a bit more difficult to do some of the things that he really wanted to, for he knew that his older brother would be watching him very carefully. He couldn\u2019t risk any of his friends realising the real reason that his brother was there, and so he resolved to play it carefully this time. Besides, <\/em>he thought, I may not have a chance to be anything but careful if this doesn\u2019t go away.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lifted his head as Hoss appeared in the doorway. \u2018Morning little buddy,\u2019 he grinned. \u2018Ain\u2019t ya getting up? It\u2019s the picnic day ya know!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled at him. \u2018Yeah I know! You think I could forget that? I\u2019ll be down in a few minutes.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well hurry up then. Ya don\u2019t want ta be late ya know!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I won\u2019t be.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss disappeared and Joe sighed to himself. This was going to be a bit more difficult than he had first thought! The medicine wasn\u2019t working as he had hoped it would, and he would have to be extra careful not to let Pa realise that he was having trouble breathing at breakfast. It would be much easier to get away with it if he didn\u2019t have to sit at the table, but Joe knew there was no way that his father would let him get out of the house without something to eat. Particularly today! He sighed again as he put his feet on the floor and reached for his pants. He would just have to take it slow and steady and make sure that his father didn\u2019t notice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Downstairs, Ben and Adam were already at the breakfast table when Hoss appeared. Ben looked up as his middle son approached the table. \u2018Hoss did you notice if Joseph was awake?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah Pa he is,\u2019 said Hoss as he sat and reached for the eggs. \u2018He\u2019s just about ta get dressed.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben frowned. \u2018Strange,\u2019 he said. \u2018I thought that young man would have been chomping at the bit to get going this morning.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss grinned. \u2018Well he certainly sounds excited. He shouldn\u2019t be long.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben turned to Adam. \u2018Son make sure you keep a good eye on him today. Don\u2019t let him get up to anything stupid.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Pa that\u2019s why I\u2019m going remember?\u2019 said Adam patiently. \u2018Don\u2019t worry he won\u2019t put anything past me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well make sure you don\u2019t embarrass him. Remember what he\u2019s said to his friends about you going,\u2019 said Hoss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grimaced at his brother. \u2018I\u2019m not stupid Hoss! If I wanted to embarrass the kid I could find plenty of ways to do it rather than put myself in a position where I have to embarrass myself to do it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben interrupted. \u2018I know this isn\u2019t going to be the easiest of days for you Adam. I appreciate you volunteering to do this for your brother, and I\u2019m sure he does too.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018He\u2019d better,\u2019 said Adam darkly. \u2018I\u2019m beginning to doubt my own sanity volunteering to spend a day with Abigail Jones. I\u2019ll just have to try and be creative in staying away from her.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss spluttered into his coffee cup. \u2018Well good luck!\u2019 he said with a twinkle in his eye. \u2018You know Miss Abigail! Once she gets her mind set on something there\u2019s no holding her back, and I\u2019m afraid older brother her mind\u2019s set on you at the moment!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam glared at him. \u2018You wouldn\u2019t like to trade places for the day would you?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head. \u2018No way! She\u2019s all yours older brother. I wouldn\u2019t dream of coming between ya!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of their younger brother coming down the stairs. \u2018Well good morning Joseph!\u2019 said Ben cheerfully. \u2018All ready for the big picnic?\u2019 Joe nodded as he took his seat. He reached for the eggs and began to put a few on his plate. \u2018Well I\u2019m glad to see you have an appetite this morning son. You\u2019re going to need something substantial in your stomach before you set out,\u2019 Ben continued.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at his father and nodded again while putting a small forkful of eggs into his mouth. Hop Sing entered the room carrying a large basket, which he put on the floor next to the table. \u2018Picnic lunch for Mr Adam and Little Joe,\u2019 he said. \u2018Much food to be eaten. Not bring home left overs.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam grinned at him. \u2018We won\u2019t Hop Sing. Don\u2019t you worry about it. Joe and I will polish up whatever you\u2019ve got for us there won\u2019t we?\u2019 He smiled at Little Joe, and looked puzzled as the boy simply nodded again as he bent over his plate.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben frowned as he noticed how quiet Joe was. \u2018Are you alright son?\u2019 he asked, touching him on the arm. \u2018Did you sleep alright?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe swallowed his eggs and looked at his father fiercely. \u2018I\u2019m fine!\u2019 he said in a loud voice. He hesitated for a moment before he added. \u2018I slept \u2026. fine!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Good.\u2019 Ben frowned at him again as he watched him shovel another forkful of eggs into his mouth. It wasn\u2019t like Joseph to be so quiet, especially considering the day that it was. He watched his son out of the corner of his eye as he ate, and noticed the boy seemed to be extremely tense. He wondered why. He couldn\u2019t be worried about the day, as he had nothing but radiate excitement about it before. He studied the boy as he ate and noticed the controlled breathing and the concentration he placed on the food in front of him. So that was it!<\/em> The boy was having trouble breathing and was trying to hide it.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018So,\u2019 Ben said casually. \u2018What are the plans for the day? Where do you all meet this morning?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe continued to look at his plate. After a moment he said, \u2018At \u2026.. at the \u2026. school.\u2019 His hesitant answer made both Adam and Hoss look up and then exchange glances at each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben continued. \u2018And then?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I \u2026 don\u2019t \u2026. know.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It was obvious to the three men that Joe was having trouble breathing, and Hoss looked at him sadly while Adam exchanged a glance with his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a moment, Ben placed a hand on his youngest son\u2019s arm. \u2018Joe? Are you having trouble breathing son?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pulled his arm away and shook his head as he put another mouthful of eggs into his mouth. \u2018No!\u2019 he said through the food. He stood up. \u2018Got \u2026 to \u2026 go now.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben pulled his arm towards him. \u2018Sit down,\u2019 he said. \u2018You haven\u2019t finished yet.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat down and picked up his glass of milk, trying to look as carefree as possible. Ben repeated his question. \u2018I asked if you were having trouble breathing Joseph,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head and smiled at his father. He continued to drink the milk so that he didn\u2019t have to say anything. Ben sighed and turned towards the kitchen. \u2018Hop Sing would you please bring Joseph\u2019s medicine in here?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe put down the glass. \u2018I \u2026. don\u2019t need \u2026. any. I \u2026. already \u2026.. had some.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018When?\u2019 his father asked as Hop Sing put the medicine on the table.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stared at his plate. \u2018When \u2026.. I woke \u2026.. up,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018And it\u2019s still not working,\u2019 said his father. \u2018Why did you have some medicine if you\u2019re not having any trouble breathing this morning?\u2019 Joe didn\u2019t say anything, but continued to stare at his plate. \u2018Joseph?\u2019 He shrugged, not wanting to talk if he didn\u2019t have to.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben sighed. \u2018Son, I can\u2019t give you any more medicine for a while if you\u2019ve already taken some. We\u2019ll wait a while and then try some more.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father, his eyes wide. \u2018But \u2026. I\u2019ll be \u2026\u2026 late \u2026.. for the \u2026. picnic!\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben looked at him sadly. \u2018Joe I\u2019m afraid you won\u2019t be going to the picnic. I can\u2019t risk it while you\u2019re having an attack.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glared at his father. \u2018I\u2019m \u2026.. not!\u2019 he declared.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe \u2026. Listen to yourself,\u2019 his father answered. \u2018It\u2019s obvious that you\u2019re not breathing well today. If you were to go, then I wouldn\u2019t \u2026\u2026\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 Joe yelled as he stood up. \u2018I\u2019m going! You \u2026.. can\u2019t make me \u2026.. miss \u2026. out!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes I can,\u2019 his father replied. \u2018Joe I know you are really looking forward to this, but I just can\u2019t let you go son. You need to take it easy today. I think you need to get back up to bed and \u2026.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 said Joe. \u2018You can\u2019t \u2026.. make \u2026. me!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph,\u2019 said his father with a frown. \u2018Don\u2019t you dare speak to me like that! Now I want you to get up to your room and get back into that bed.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No!\u2019 yelled Joe again. \u2018You said \u2026. I \u2026 could go! Adam \u2026. will \u2026. look \u2026.. after me!\u2019 He looked at his older brother pleadingly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam looked back at him with pity in his eyes. \u2018Joe, Pa\u2019s right. It wouldn\u2019t matter if Doc Martin himself was going with you. Nothing would help if you had a bad attack out there. You know that!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glared at him and clenched his fists as he stood there. Hoss looked at him sadly. \u2018Ya\u2019d best do as Pa says little buddy.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked at him and his face crumpled. \u2018But he \u2026.. said I \u2026.. could go!\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Not when you\u2019re like this Joseph,\u2019 interrupted his father. \u2018Now please do as you are told and go back upstairs.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned back to his father. \u2018You never \u2026. let me \u2026.. do anything!\u2019 he yelled. \u2018I \u2026. hate \u2026. you!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben flinched at his son\u2019s words. \u2018To your room Joseph,\u2019 he said quietly and pointed to the stairs. Joe stomped his foot and turned to leave the room, the tears beginning to fall as he mounted the stairs. The three men remained seated at the table in silence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Maybe if I went and made sure he didn\u2019t do anything while he was there,\u2019 said Adam tentatively. \u2018Maybe if I took him in the buggy and he just sat and watched.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018You know you\u2019d never get a buggy up there,\u2019 replied Ben. \u2018Thank you Adam, but we all know the boy can\u2019t go.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yeah but Pa,\u2019 began Hoss. \u2018The little guy really wants \u2026..\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben held up his hand. \u2018It isn\u2019t a matter of what he wants Hoss. It\u2019s a matter of what is best for him. To allow him to go would be just foolhardy, and I won\u2019t do it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

There was silence again, and then Adam spoke again. \u2018Maybe if I offer to take him up there when he\u2019s better,\u2019 he said. \u2018Maybe that will help.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Maybe,\u2019 said his father, \u2018but I don\u2019t think so. Thank you anyway Adam.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019d better get into town and let Abigail know,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I hope she doesn\u2019t expect me to go now that Joe\u2019s not going.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Knowing Miss Abigail she\u2019ll likely try and talk ya into it!\u2019 said Hoss. \u2018Good luck!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam sighed and stood up from the table. He shrugged his shoulders before he left the room. Hoss looked at his father. \u2018Ya want me ta talk ta Joe for ya Pa?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled at him. \u2018No thank you Hoss. I\u2019ll handle him.\u2019 He thought for a moment. \u2018I\u2019d like you to get out to the North Pasture and let Charlie know I won\u2019t be out there today. I\u2019ll stick close to the house in case Joe gets worse.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss stood up and wiped his mouth with his napkin. \u2018OK Pa. See ya later.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood bye son.\u2019 Ben sipped the last of his coffee as Hop Sing entered the room. \u2018Thank you for the picnic lunch Hop Sing, but Joseph won\u2019t be needing it after all.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing picked it up again. \u2018Little Joe sick again?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes, I think so.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hop Sing bring tea up for him. Herbs to make better.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you Hop Sing. I\u2019ll be up there with him for a while.\u2019 Ben sighed again as he stood up from the table and turned to face the daunting task of calming down his youngest son. With a heavy heart he mounted the stairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018I told you to get into bed,\u2019 Ben said as he entered Joe\u2019s bedroom and saw the boy sitting on the windowsill. When his son didn\u2019t acknowledge his remark he walked over to him and put his hand on his shoulder, but Joe thrust it off angrily and stood up to walk away from his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He sat on the edge of his bed and began to undo the buttons of his shirt, then bent to take off his boots and pants. Ben stood next to him silently and picked up his nightshirt from the bed to hand to him. Joe grabbed it from his father and slipped it over his head without a word, before lying down on the bed and pulling up the covers. He turned away to face the wall and closed his eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a moment, Ben sat down on the edge of the bed and put his hand on the boy\u2019s shoulder again. Joe shook himself away from his father without opening his eyes and moved over in the bed until he was as close to the wall as he could be.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph I know you\u2019re angry with me son, but I\u2019m doing this for your own good,\u2019 Ben said. When there was no reply he continued. \u2018I just can\u2019t let you take a risk by going to that picnic.\u2019 There was silence, and he sighed as he looked at the stubborn boy in the bed beside him. \u2018You get some sleep now Joe. I\u2019ll come back later to give you some more medicine.\u2019 Ben stood and looked at his son for a few more moments before turning and leaving the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he heard the door close, Joe opened his eyes and turned to lie on his back and stare at the ceiling. It just wasn\u2019t fair! Why couldn\u2019t his father see that he\u2019d be all right? It wasn\u2019t as if he knew about the other day. Joe made a face as he remembered the evasive answers he had given to the doctor when he questioned him about what had happened. He hadn\u2019t exactly lied to him, but Joe knew that he hadn\u2019t exactly told him the truth either. If Pa had known about him climbing that tree he\u2019d have been in trouble for sure, and he just couldn\u2019t risk it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Lot of good it\u2019s done me now though!<\/em> He thought. It\u2019s just not fair! <\/em>He heard a noise outside his window and got out of bed to have a look at what was happening down in the yard. He frowned as he saw Adam sitting on his horse talking to their father. Bet they\u2019re talking about me! He\u2019d better not be telling that nosey old Doc Martin to come out here \u2013 I don\u2019t want to see him! <\/em>He watched as his brother left the yard and his father walked back towards the house again. Glaring down at him as he disappeared beneath the overhang of the porch, Joe banged his fist on the wall in frustration. Without a second thought he turned back towards the bed again and began to pull on his pants. I will not<\/strong> do as he says! I don\u2019t care what he thinks, I won\u2019t be the only one to miss out on that picnic!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

With a last stubborn look at the bed he quietly opened the window and began to climb out onto the roof.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Why Adam! You\u2019re just in time,\u2019 said Abigail delightedly as she looked up from the milling throng of children around her. \u2018Where\u2019s Joseph?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018My brother won\u2019t be coming,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018Could I have a word with you for a moment please?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Of course,\u2019 said Abigail with what she hoped was a sweet smile. \u2018Over here.\u2019 She led him into a corner away from the excited children.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joe has had another asthma attack this morning so I\u2019m afraid that he won\u2019t be going,\u2019 said Adam. \u2018I don\u2019t think he\u2019d like the others to know though.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Of course I won\u2019t tell them,\u2019 replied Abigail. \u2018He must be very disappointed.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded. \u2018Yes he is. Well, I thought I\u2019d just let you know.\u2019 He tipped his hat as he took a step away from her. \u2018Have a good day.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail looked at him puzzled. \u2018But Adam, just because Joseph isn\u2019t coming with us doesn\u2019t mean you have to miss out as well does it?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam licked his lips. \u2018I wouldn\u2019t dream of going Miss Jones. I don\u2019t think that would be fair to Joe do you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail tried to hide her disappointment. \u2018No I suppose not. What a shame! I was really looking forward to your help today.\u2019 She took a step forward and smiled at him again. \u2018Maybe another time then?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He took another step back until he was pushing against the wall behind him. \u2018Maybe. Goodbye!\u2019 He turned and walked quickly to his horse, relieved that he had got out of it so easily. Abigail stared after him for a moment before turning back towards the children. The day didn\u2019t seem nearly as enjoyable now after all!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pulled Cochise into the bushes off the side of the trail as he heard another rider coming towards him. As he peeped out from behind them he realised that it was just as well he had, for it was his brother Adam returning from town. Probably poking his nose in and talking to Miss Jones about me! <\/em>He wondered what to do. It was no use turning up at school, for she might just send him straight home again. No,<\/em> he decided, I\u2019ll get halfway up to Bluff Peak and meet them there. By that time she can\u2019t send me home if I tell her that I got better and Pa said I could go after all.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

He turned Cochise away from the trail and headed across the field behind him, being careful to walk her. He didn\u2019t want any more reason to make his breathing worse than it already was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time Joe had reached the lower slopes of Bluff Peak he began to be little worried. He felt a tightness in his chest that he knew wasn\u2019t right, and so he slid off Cochise to sit down under a tree and rest for a while. After a few minutes, he reached up and drew the bottle of medicine from his saddlebag, thankful for once that his father had insisted that he leave one there. He took a mouthful and leant back to give it time to work. After a few moments his eyes began to close and he drifted off into a light sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He could tell from the direction of the sun when he awoke that he must have been sleeping for at least an hour. His chest still felt tight and when he tried to breathe he began to cough. With every breath he took he heard the wheezing sound that the doctor had told him about, and he worried at the thought of what it might mean.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Maybe it was pretty dumb to try and come here after all! <\/em>He thought. I\u2019d better just take it real slow. <\/em>He stood up to grab hold of the reins of his horse, but as he took a step forward he felt himself begin to feel dizzy and the ground tilted up to meet him. He was surprised to find himself on his knees hanging onto the reins and struggled to stand up again. His heart was beating very fast and he felt himself sweating and beginning to shake as he attempted to get up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly his legs buckled under him again and he found himself sitting on the ground, the reins dangling above him. He bent his head down and rested it on his arms as he fought to regain control over his breathing, trying to keep his panic at bay. For a few moments he lay there struggling for breath. He wondered if he should try some more of the medicine, but remembering Doctor Martin\u2019s warning not to take it too frequently he decided not to. Anyway I don\u2019t know if I could even reach it!<\/em> He thought, looking up at the reins dangling above him. They seemed an awfully long way away, and he wondered about his ability to even reach up that much.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lifted his head and looked around. There was nothing that he could see to help him \u2013 no children, no Miss Jones, nothing! He wondered if they had passed him while he had been asleep and decided that they probably had. He lowered his head again to rest. I\u2019ll try again in a few minutes, he <\/em>decided.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben approached his son\u2019s room with a bottle of medicine in his hand. He hated the battles he had with this youngest son of his. It seemed like ever since he was a tiny baby he had to fight against that stubborn streak Joseph had inside him. It wasn\u2019t that he was a bad boy, just wilful. He didn\u2019t always think through his actions and when he wanted to do something he would move heaven and earth to achieve it. But Ben was determined that this child of his would have to learn to abide by his father\u2019s instructions and do as he was told. It wasn\u2019t as if Ben enjoyed doing this to the boy. It was for his own good after all!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he opened the door and saw the empty bed he immediately suspected what had happened. He thumped his fist on the wall beside him in frustration as he turned to run down the hallway, vowing that sick or not this time the boy would feel the full brunt of his displeasure with the blatant disobedience that he was displaying. If that boy thinks he can just ignore me, then he can just think again! <\/em>Ben felt his anger erupting and he struggled to maintain his composure. After all, <\/em>he told himself, the important thing is to make sure that Joseph is all right. It\u2019s not going to help anything if I lose my temper with him.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Cochise\u2019s stall was empty as he had suspected it would be. With mounting anger he saddled his own horse and was just mounting up when he heard the sound of a rider entering the yard. He walked his horse out to the yard to see Adam appearing around the side of the barn. One look at his father\u2019s face was enough to prompt Adam to say, \u2018He\u2019s gone hasn\u2019t he?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben merely nodded and mounted up, while Adam shrugged his shoulders in frustration and turned his horse to follow his father out of the yard. Neither man needed to say where they were going, as they both knew the direction that Joe would be taking. They only hoped that they would find the boy safe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail Jones was enjoying her day after all, although she knew it would have been even better with the handsome Adam Cartwright along. Still, she had not given up on him! It was obvious to her how keen he was to develop their relationship further, for why else would he be constantly seeking her out and making excuses to see her? She felt that he must be very shy, and determined to find a way to allow them both to show their true feelings for each other.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So lost was she in her daydream that it was only when several of the children began to yell in front of her that she came back to reality.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Miss Jones! There\u2019s a couple of riders coming!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail put up her hand to shade her eyes, and was delighted to see that it was the very object of her affections Adam Cartwright and his father. She stepped forward as the two men pulled to a halt beside her. \u2018Miss Jones,\u2019 said Ben, and she noticed a very worried look on his face. \u2018Is Joseph with you?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She shook her head. \u2018No he\u2019s not. Adam came in this morning and said that he wasn\u2019t coming with us.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018Yes I know, but he left the house without permission, and I have a feeling he might be headed up here to join you.\u2019 He looked around. \u2018You didn\u2019t see him on the way at all?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She shook her head. \u2018No I didn\u2019t. But if he does catch up with us then I\u2019ll certainly send him straight back home!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you, but I\u2019m a bit concerned that if he does make it this far, that he won\u2019t be in any fit state to come home,\u2019 replied Ben. He hesitated. \u2018I really need to keep searching I suppose, but what if he shows up here?\u2019 He looked over at Adam. \u2018Son would you stay here with the group while I retrace our trail? If your brother makes it this far you can get him back to the ranch, and if I find him then I\u2019ll do the same.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam glanced at Abigail who was grinning widely at him. \u2018I\u2019ll go back Pa, you stay here,\u2019 he suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben glared at him. \u2018Do as I ask please Adam! This is no time for an argument!\u2019 He turned his horse and said over his shoulder, \u2018If he makes it here, fire a shot in the air and I\u2019ll come back. I\u2019ll do the same if I find him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam nodded and turned back to Abigail with a half smile. She beamed at him. \u2018Well it looks as if you\u2019ll be coming with us after all!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Mmm, \u2018 he replied unenthusiastically. \u2018So it does.\u2019 He turned quickly as he heard a shot. \u2018Pa must have found him!\u2019 he said. \u2018I have to go!\u2019 He galloped down the hill and towards the sound of the shot. He noticed his father\u2019s horse in the distance and rode towards it, praying that he had in fact found Joe. As he came near he noticed his father on the ground, cradling his younger brother in his arms. He slid off his horse and knelt down beside him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe had his eyes closed, his whole being concentrated on taking each breath. His face was a deathly pale colour and covered with a layer of sweat. His lips were blue from lack of oxygen and he was trembling. But what was the most frightening thing to Adam was the sound of his younger brother gasping for each breath. Ben looked at him. \u2018Adam help me get him up onto my horse!\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam bent and lifted his brother from his father\u2019s arms. He felt Joe stiffen as he did so, and he held the boy tightly into his chest to try and calm him. \u2018Easy Joe,\u2019 he said, \u2018it\u2019s all right little buddy.\u2019 He handed him up to his father when he was seated on his horse, then tied Cochise\u2019s reins on behind them. Looking up at his father he said anxiously, \u2018Are you sure you can do this Pa? I could get the buckboard first.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018No! I\u2019ll manage Adam, get Paul out to the ranch now. I\u2019ll get Joe there \u2013 it\u2019s closer than taking him into town.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam mounted without another word and galloped off. Ben looked down at his son in his arms and said a silent prayer that he would indeed be able to get the boy back home. He felt the boy trembling as he lay against his chest and noticed the frantic movements of his hands as he tried to clutch at his father. As he began to walk the horse he held onto his son tightly, whispering in his ear as they went. \u2018Just calm down Joseph. Your Pa\u2019s got you now. It\u2019ll be all right.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But Ben wasn\u2019t sure that it would be. All along the trail back towards the house he kept talking to the boy, trying to keep him calm and telling him to concentrate on his breathing. But he could see that Joseph was beginning to panic and knew that if the boy kept on like this that his breathing would become even more strained.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s hands were clutching at him frantically and Ben was afraid to go at a faster pace than a walk for fear of upsetting the boy even more. He prayed that they would make it, and with each step that they took he rejoiced that they were one more step closer to help.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

———–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI am so glad to see you Paul!\u2019 said Ben, standing up to greet the doctor as he entered the room. \u2018I\u2019m so sorry to get you out all this way again so soon.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul shook his head. \u2018Don\u2019t worry about it Ben.\u2019 He looked at the boy on the bed and frowned. \u2018Adam said that he\u2019s been like this for a while.\u2019 Ben gave the man a quick run down on their morning as Paul got his stethoscope out of his bag. \u2018Has he had any of the medicine?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He said that he had a dose when he woke up this morning, and then another one a couple of hours ago,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018I think by the time he had the second dose though the attack had well and truly taken hold of him.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul nodded. \u2018Seems like it might have. Just settle back for a minute Joe, I have to listen to your lungs and heart.\u2019 He pushed the boy back onto the bed and motioned for Ben to keep him still.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe was trying to make himself understood without having to speak. He clutched at his father\u2019s sleeve and beckoned to him, but Ben just shook his head at the boy and put his hand on his forehead. \u2018Joseph just lie still for now while the doctor examines you. Don\u2019t try and talk.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked up at his father and opened his mouth as if to speak. But all that came out was another spasm of coughing and he gasped for breath again. Paul studied him as the coughing subsided, then bent over him again with the stethoscope to listen. Ben sat and held onto the boy\u2019s arms, smiling at him in an attempt to calm him down.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When the doctor stood up again Ben let go and began to stroke Joe\u2019s forehead. \u2018That\u2019s it now Joe. Just close your eyes and relax.\u2019 But relaxing was something Joe just couldn\u2019t manage at this stage. He was panicking as he tried to take a breath and felt his lungs struggling to fill up. He felt as if he were under water and unable to get any air into his lungs at all. Somewhere in his consciousness he heard the doctor\u2019s voice as if far away, and opened his eyes to see if he were really there.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For the first time in his short life, Joe was glad to see the man. Even though he had fought against him so many times he had great faith in his ability to do something to help him. There were many times when the doctor had helped him in the past, although he would have been the last one to admit that, and he hoped that he would be able to help him now. He was willing to do anything the man would tell him to, as long as he could help him to get some air into his lungs. Joe felt like his chest was about to explode and the dizzy feeling was overtaking him again. With a small moan he closed his eyes again and focussed on each intake of air.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He continued to clutch onto his father\u2019s arms, unwilling to let them go. He felt that he could perhaps draw some strength from him and needed to feel him close. He desperately wanted to talk to him, but knew that he needed every ounce of air for breathing not talking. Ben stared down at his son as he struggled for each breath, stroking the hair off his forehead and trying to appear calm for the boy\u2019s sake. As Paul drew a chair up next to him, he spoke without taking his eyes from his son\u2019s face. \u2018What can we do to help him Paul?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Before the doctor could answer Hoss and Adam entered the room. Paul turned towards them. Boys we\u2019re going to need your help,\u2019 he said, and they both nodded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Just tell us what to do,\u2019 Hoss said, watching his younger brother on the bed as he spoke. \u2018I\u2019ll do anything Doc.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul glanced at Ben. \u2018I can\u2019t give him any more of the medicine at the moment. It contains a high concentrate of morphine which inhibits the coughing that he\u2019s experiencing, but I just can\u2019t risk overdosing him on it.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben nodded. \u2018I understand. So what else do we try?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul turned to Hoss. \u2018I want you to see if you can find any horehound. There should be some at this time of year. The juice of it could be quite effective.\u2019 Hoss nodded and left without a word. Ben knew that if anyone could find the plant it would be Hoss. He had an uncanny affinity with nature, and would know just where to look. \u2018In the meantime,\u2019 Paul continued, \u2018Adam, see if Hop Sing has any linseed oil in the kitchen.\u2019 Adam left the room without a word.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

I\u2019m going to get some hot water and towels,\u2019 continued Paul. \u2018Stay with him Ben.\u2019 Ben nodded. He had no intention of leaving his son for a moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few moments he heard Paul and Adam entering the room. Paul held a bowl of hot water and a towel, which he placed on the bed next to Joe. \u2018We\u2019re going to try some inhalations, he said. \u2018It might just widen his airways to make the breathing a bit easier. Ben nodded again, willing to do anything the man told him to without question. He lifted Joe up while Adam placed more pillows behind him to keep him in a semi-sitting position and watched as Paul placed the bowl on Joe\u2019s lap and covered his head with the towel.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The boy struggled for a moment as he felt himself being confined under the towel, and Ben reached in and continued to stroke his head as he murmured softly to him. When he continued to struggle Ben finally put his own head under the towel and sat with him in this position while he breathed in the steam. Joe seemed to settle down a bit when he felt his father\u2019s presence next to him, and clung onto him even more tightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a few moments the towel was lifted and Paul appeared holding the bottle of oil that Adam had brought. He dropped a few drops into the water, and Ben instantly smelt the pungent odour fill his nostrils. \u2018Try to get him to breathe it deeply,\u2019 Paul instructed as he put the towel down again and withdrew his head.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben tried to do as the doctor instructed. He looked deeply into Joe\u2019s eyes and breathed deeply himself, trying to give the boy the encouragement to follow suit. Joe tried desperately to do as his father and the doctor wanted him to, but felt the panic welling up inside him even as he attempted to do so. But Ben didn\u2019t for a moment let up on the boy, and his constant voice in his ear gradually penetrated its message of calm and control.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After a while Joe matched his breathing with that of his father\u2019s and even though his breaths were a lot shallower, the regular rhythm of them helped to calm him. Paul replaced the water several times, making sure that it was always hot, and by the time Hoss came running back up the stairs again, the atmosphere in the room was quite controlled and calm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He thrust out his hand and showed the doctor the crumpled leaves and small white flowers of the plant he was holding. \u2018Here Doc,\u2019 he said. \u2018I fond a batch of it by the side of the trail.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul took it and smiled. \u2018That\u2019s wonderful Hoss. Now watch what I do so you\u2019ll be able to do it next time. He took a small knife from his bag and cut the leaves into pieces. Gently he squeezed until a few drops of juice fell from them and gathered in the bottom of the small bowl he held underneath. \u2018We need quite a bit of it, he said. \u2018Here, keep doing this.\u2019 Hoss took the bowl from him and kept squeezing the leaves.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul turned to Adam. \u2018We\u2019ll need some honey to mix it with,\u2019 he said. Adam nodded again and left the room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

By the time the syrup was ready, Joe was a lot calmer and it seemed the crisis had passed. Paul took off the towel and fed the boy the infusion of juice and honey slowly, and he was able to swallow it. Ben sat with him propped up on his chest, stroking his forehead from behind as he murmured to him. \u2018Good boy Joe. That\u2019s it now. It\u2019s going to be all right.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For the first time he actually believed his own words, and smiled at the doctor in front of him. \u2018Seems like it might be a good idea to transplant some of that horehound to some of our garden eh Hoss?\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hoss nodded. \u2018Reckon so Pa. It\u2019d be good ta have some of it on hand.\u2019 Paul kept spooning the mixture into Joe\u2019s mouth, as Ben sent up a silent prayer that they would never again need it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

————–<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul straightened up and took the stethoscope out of his ears. \u2018Much better,\u2019 he said patted Joe on the head. \u2018I\u2019m sure the breathing is easier now eh?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yes,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul sat on the edge of the bed. \u2018You know Joe, yesterday you were a very sick boy. You\u2019ve really got to learn to listen to what your body is saying to you. I hope this has been a good lesson for you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded again. \u2018Sure has Doc!\u2019 he agreed. \u2018I won\u2019t be disobeying Pa when he tells me I can\u2019t go somewhere again, and I won\u2019t be climbing any more trees neither.\u2019 He stopped with a worried look as he realised what he had said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Climbing trees?\u2019 asked his father. \u2018What\u2019s all this about climbing trees?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe bit his lip and fiddled with the bedcovers. \u2018Nothing Pa. I only meant that if I thought about climbing trees \u2026.. then I wouldn\u2019t.\u2019 He looked up at his father and gave him a tentative grin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben studied the boy\u2019s expression for a moment. \u2018I\u2019m glad to hear you say that you\u2019ll obeying my instructions from now on Joseph,\u2019 he said. \u2018I expect you to remember that.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u2018Yes Pa,\u2019 he said quietly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul interjected. \u2018Joe, it\u2019s very important that you realise just how serious this is. You could have died because of your foolishness. You understand that don\u2019t you?\u2019 Joe nodded, his eyes widening as the doctor continued. \u2018The medicine isn\u2019t enough to help you when you have an attack that bad. You must learn to stop when you feel one coming on.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded again. \u2018I will,\u2019 he said confidently.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben raised an eyebrow at his friend. Not for one moment did he believe that his son was capable of remembering or acting upon the doctor\u2019s orders for long. It wasn\u2019t that the boy always meant to be disobedient – although there were many times that Ben suspected that he did \u2013 it was just that thinking before he acted was not Joseph\u2019s strong point. \u2018His brothers and I will remind him Paul,\u2019 he said, giving his son a meaningful look.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Paul stood up. \u2018I\u2019ll see myself out Ben. I don\u2019t think there\u2019s any need for me to come back out again unless you call for me now. Joe seems to be fine again.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his friend\u2019s hand. \u2018Thank you Paul,\u2019 he said. \u2018That\u2019s all I ever seem to say to you lately isn\u2019t it? I\u2019m sorry we\u2019re so much trouble for you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Don\u2019t mention it,\u2019 said Paul looking directly at Joe. \u2018It\u2019s just lucky that Joe and I are such good friends isn\u2019t it? Otherwise we might get sick and tired of seeing each other hmm?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe wriggled uncomfortably under the bedclothes. \u2018Yeah,\u2019 he said with an embarrassed smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the doctor left the room, Ben sat down on the edge of his son\u2019s bed. \u2018Now what\u2019s all this about climbing trees young man?\u2019 he asked seriously. \u2018I\u2019d like to know exactly what was behind that remark you made a few moments ago.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed as he lay back down on the pillow again. How did his Pa do it? Just when he thought he\u2019d got away with something, he always managed to remind him that he hadn\u2019t!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

—————-<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail Jones brought the buggy to a halt and looked with approval at the large house in front of her. She had never had the opportunity to visit the Cartwright ranch before, and this seemed to be as good an opportunity as any. As she dismounted she noticed the imposing front porch with the rambling red climbing rose that trailed over it. It leant a decidedly feminine touch to a fa\u00e7ade that was otherwise very masculine in its appearance. She smiled with satisfaction as she approached the front door and knocked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It was opened by Hop Sing the Cartwright\u2019s Chinese cook. \u2018Good afternoon,\u2019 said Abigail pleasantly. \u2018Would Mr Cartwright be at home please?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing eyed her up and down. \u2018Which one?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail hesitated. \u2018Mr Ben Cartwright or Mr Adam Cartwright,\u2019 she said. \u2018Either one would do.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hop Sing waved her inside. \u2018Both here,\u2019 he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stood to greet the schoolteacher as she entered the large living room. \u2018Miss Jones,\u2019 he said. \u2018How lovely to see you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Thank you Mr Cartwright,\u2019 replied Abigail. \u2018I came to see how Joseph is getting on.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018That\u2019s very nice of you,\u2019 said Ben. \u2018Would you like to see him?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail\u2019s eyes were darting around the room anxiously as if searching for something as she replied. \u2018Yes, thank you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben lead her up to Joe\u2019s room and waved her in front of him as he said, \u2018Joseph you have a visitor.\u2019 Joe looked up from his game of checkers eagerly at his father\u2019s words, but his face fell when he saw who it was. \u2018Say hello to Miss Jones, Joseph,\u2019 said his father to break the silence.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Hello Miss Jones,\u2019 he said without enthusiasm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail\u2019s eyes lit up as she noticed Adam sitting on the edge of the boy\u2019s bed. \u2018Hello Joseph,\u2019 she replied while staring straight at Adam. \u2018Well hello Adam! Visiting with your brother I see. How lovely of you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Adam stood up and took a step backwards, his face a bland mask of politeness. \u2018Hello Abigail,\u2019 he said. \u2018You\u2019ll have to excuse me. I have some work to finish.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Please don\u2019t let me disturb your game,\u2019 said Abigail with a smile. \u2018I just came to see how Joseph is. We\u2019ve missed you at school Joseph.\u2019 Her eyes didn\u2019t leave Adam for a moment, and Ben wasn\u2019t sure just who her words were directed to.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Joseph is doing a lot better now thank you,\u2019 he said. \u2018He won\u2019t be back at school for a few more days though.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail turned towards him. \u2018I thought that might be the case Mr Cartwright, so I brought some work for him. I thought you might like him to keep up with his studies.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben beamed at her. \u2018That\u2019s very nice of you Miss Jones,\u2019 he said. \u2018Isn\u2019t it Joseph?\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s expression didn\u2019t exactly mirror that of his father\u2019s \u2013 in fact it could be better described as a scowl. When he didn\u2019t reply, Adam laughed and said, \u2018I\u2019m sure Joe is very pleased to hear that he\u2019ll be doing school work while he\u2019s in bed!\u2019 He smirked at his younger brother who glared back at him and then lay back on his pillow with a sad expression.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Well I\u2019ll do my best to finish it,\u2019 replied Joe in a small tired voice. \u2018But I might need some help. Miss Jones do you think you could take some time to explain to Adam what I have to do? He\u2019s real good at that sort of thing and I\u2019m sure he\u2019d be happy to help me.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abigail smiled widely. \u2018What a wonderful idea Joseph! I\u2019m sure your brother would be only too happy to help you with your work. Wouldn\u2019t you Adam?\u2019 Adam gave her a half-hearted smile. \u2018Come,\u2019 she patted the chair beside her. \u2018I\u2019ll explain it all to you.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled to himself as his oldest son sat down reluctantly. \u2018Would you like some coffee Miss Jones?\u2019 he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2018Yes please Mr Cartwright that would be very nice,\u2019 Abigail replied. \u2018I think this is going to take quite a while.\u2019 She patted Adam on the arm as she said, \u2018Now Adam let\u2019s start with the arithmetic.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben glanced at Joe as he left the room, and for a moment he caught a glimpse of a smirk on his face as he watched his brother and Miss Jones. Maybe I\u2019m wrong, <\/em>he thought as he left the room. Maybe Joseph does think things through sometimes.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>The End<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/g><\/svg><\/i> \"Loading\"<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0 A potentially deadly illness sneaks up on\u00a0 the youngest Cartwright.\u00a0 Follow along as, in a moment of true Joe, the family finds themselves racing against time.<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 K\u00a0 (16,720 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":3814,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23,41,1007,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10638","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","category-joe-cartwright","category-prequels","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id","wpcat-1007-id","wpcat-30-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":4188,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/joe-angst.jpg?fit=400%2C320&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12911,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12911","url_meta":{"origin":10638,"position":0},"title":"The Stranger – A Missing Scene (by Jenny G)","author":"Gwynne & JennyG","date":"January 11, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 What followed when Roy released Little Joe from jail. Rating:\u00a0 K+ (1,130 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp 1x, https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp 1.5x, https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Adam-and-Joe-Desert-Justice-2.bmp 2x"},"classes":[]},{"id":17742,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=17742","url_meta":{"origin":10638,"position":1},"title":"Without You (by PSW)","author":"PSW","date":"July 14, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: The brothers share a bittersweet day.\u00a0 Written for the July 15 Pinecone Challenge and (very slightly) expanded for inclusion here.\u00a0 Prompt\/lyrics: God only knows what I'd be without you. (Brian Wilson, Tony Asher) Rating: K\u00a0 \u00a0WC: 576","rel":"","context":"In "Short Stories"","block_context":{"text":"Short Stories","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=8"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/488C0EA0-90EC-4A50-88D0-843B02C51C1F.jpeg?fit=1200%2C900&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/488C0EA0-90EC-4A50-88D0-843B02C51C1F.jpeg?fit=1200%2C900&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/488C0EA0-90EC-4A50-88D0-843B02C51C1F.jpeg?fit=1200%2C900&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/488C0EA0-90EC-4A50-88D0-843B02C51C1F.jpeg?fit=1200%2C900&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/488C0EA0-90EC-4A50-88D0-843B02C51C1F.jpeg?fit=1200%2C900&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":809,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=809","url_meta":{"origin":10638,"position":2},"title":"RIP Mr Cartwright (by mumu74)","author":"mumu74","date":"November 19, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: To Kill A Cartwright \"november Challenge\" Rip Mr Cartwright Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 (741 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Ben-1.jpg?fit=234%2C234&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":2479,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=2479","url_meta":{"origin":10638,"position":3},"title":"To Be a Cartwright (by Rona)","author":"Rona","date":"May 19, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Someone claiming to be Ben's nephew is running up big bills. But just who is he? Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0 (9,055 words)","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/normal_Leprechauns3.jpg?fit=400%2C300&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":5842,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=5842","url_meta":{"origin":10638,"position":4},"title":"Devil’s Bargain (by Patina)","author":"patina","date":"January 3, 2008","format":false,"excerpt":"Rating: T \u00a0WC 6100 Summary:\u00a0WHI for Death at Dawn","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Dawn_1.jpg?fit=614%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Dawn_1.jpg?fit=614%2C480&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Dawn_1.jpg?fit=614%2C480&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":15922,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=15922","url_meta":{"origin":10638,"position":5},"title":"Never Quote Me the Odds (by McFair_58)","author":"mcfair_58","date":"January 27, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Ben Cartwright had thought the worst thing that could happen was that his son, Hoss, was shot in back by mistake.\u00a0 But like the other time Hoss was shot - by Red Twilight - Little Joe was in danger too.\u00a0 His brother could be dying and Joe is nowhere\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/img20170618_21305786-scaled.jpg?fit=947%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/img20170618_21305786-scaled.jpg?fit=947%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/img20170618_21305786-scaled.jpg?fit=947%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/img20170618_21305786-scaled.jpg?fit=947%2C1200&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10638","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/12"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=10638"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10638\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3814"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=10638"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=10638"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=10638"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}