{"id":10663,"date":"2015-03-02T20:52:37","date_gmt":"2015-03-03T01:52:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=10663"},"modified":"2025-02-18T19:20:58","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T00:20:58","slug":"restitution","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=10663","title":{"rendered":"Restitution (by Belle)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>:\u00a0 Ezra Grady, is dead; but that doesn\u2019t mean the Cartwrights\u2019 troubles are over. Ezra Grady\u2019s silent partner-in-crime has yet another scheme in mind.\u00a0 (Warning:\u00a0\u00a0Referenced mistreatment of a child.)<\/em><\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0\u00a0 T\u00a0 (22,190 words)<\/p>\n

In Absentia Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

In Absentia<\/a>
\nRestitution
\n<\/a>All Through the Night <\/a>
\nSignificance<\/a>
\nHomesick<\/a><\/p>\n

Restitution<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chapter 1<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cFeet off the furniture, Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam looked up from the ledger just in time to watch Joe drop his sock-clad feet to the floor while flashing their father an ingratiating smile and murmuring a sheepish,\u201cSorry, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s frown was immediately replaced with a fond look of approval. Hoss caught Adam\u2019s eye, and they shared a smirk.\u00a0 Of course, Joe sincerely craved their father\u2019s approval. However, in the week since they had returned from Sacramento, Ben had yet to catch on to what the brothers had known for years: Little Joe had long ago figured out how to have his cake and eat it, too.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t the first time the boy had received that particular correction. Keeping feet off the furniture was a new house rule.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t any secret Adam preferred neat, orderly surroundings. However, during the seven years spent raising two rambunctious brothers, he\u2019d figured out that some battles were just not worth fighting.\u00a0 In fact, even he<\/em> had occasionally mistaken the coffee table for an ottoman and confused the sitting room with the dining room. Too many meals had been eaten balancing a plate on a lap in front of the fire rather than eating at the dining table.\u00a0 Without the civilizing influences of Ben, Marie, and Grandfather Stoddard, their daily routines had valued casual practicality over formality.<\/p>\n

I have a feeling that\u2019s going to be a hard habit for Joe to break.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cSupper ready,\u201d Hop Sing announced.<\/p>\n

A quick glance around the rooms revealed subtle reminders of Hop Sing\u2019s recent inclusion in their family.\u00a0 The floors were waxed to a soft shine, windows scrubbed to sparkling clarity, and stored furniture brought forth and arranged handsomely.\u00a0 Flowers decorated the dining table, and a bowl of apples on the coffee table kept the boys out of Hop Sing\u2019s kitchen.\u00a0 In all these efforts, conducted while Ben recuperated from his recent hardships, Little Joe had been Hop Sing\u2019s devoted helper, trailing after the man, peppering him with questions and talking non-stop about the Ponderosa, his brothers, and ranch life in general.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow,\u201d Hop Sing urged. \u201cCold food not good.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss leapt from the blue velvet chair in eager anticipation. The dining table was set with Marie\u2019s china and cut glass tumblers laid upon a snowy white tablecloth. Enticing aromas wafted from platters filled with pork roast and a variety of side dishes.<\/p>\n

As they all took their seats, Adam cleared his throat quietly and looked pointedly at Joe\u2019s napkin. His kid brother blushed and hurriedly placed the napkin in his lap. Ben waited patiently for complete silence and offered the blessing. The prayer had barely subsided before Hoss was reaching for the food. Ben interrupted the onslaught by reminding the younger boys to pass one dish at a time around the table. It seemed to take every ounce of willpower Hoss and Joe possessed to fill their plates politely and wait for everyone to be served.<\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t have the heart to chide them. The years Ben had been missing had been lean times. They\u2019d managed, but it had been a rare treat to have plenty of anything. If he\u2019d had to guess, Adam would have said that Hoss had suffered the most and complained the least.\u00a0 At eighteen, Adam\u2019s middle brother was just at the age when a young man was always hungry. Until this week, Adam had rarely seen him reach for a second helping.\u00a0 Watching Hoss dig into a plate heaped with delicious, nourishing food, Adam sighed in approval and relief.<\/p>\n

\u201cLittle Joe, take a bit more potatoes and meat, son. There\u2019s plenty here,\u201d Ben coaxed his youngest son.<\/p>\n

Good luck with that, Pa.<\/em><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s picky eating had been the bane of his brothers\u2019 existence for years. The kid would as soon go without food altogether if he was served something he didn\u2019t like. Even when offered his favorite meal, Joe seemed to fill up quickly. Adam reflected ruefully that Joe\u2019s lack of appetite might have had something to do with the quality of the meals prepared by his brothers over the years, or perhaps Joe had been as aware of their circumstances as Hoss. Regardless of the reason, Joe could charitably be described as scrawny as well as short for his age. Every time Adam caught Ben fretting over Joe\u2019s appearance, he felt a bit guilty for not having taken better care of the kid.<\/p>\n

Thankfully, it looked like the days of hoarding beans and bacon were finally over. When Roy Coffee had arrived back in Virginia City with Ezra Grady\u2019s buggy, the sheriff hadn\u2019t been shy about spreading the news of Cartwright\u2019s miraculous return\u2014from there the tale had spread across the territory like a summer wildfire. Although Ben had yet to visit Virginia City, the attitudes about the Cartwright family had definitely changed. When Adam had taken Hop Sing into town to buy supplies, every friend, acquaintance, and casual observer found some reason to approach and ask to hear the story.\u00a0 Storeowners who had until recently demanded cash up front now extended generous credit terms. Widows and unmarried ladies of a certain age inquired into his father\u2019s health and circumstances with such cold calculation that Adam wondered if he\u2019d ever trust women.<\/p>\n

Sitting together on the porch after supper listening to Ben describe the constellations twinkling against an inky autumn sky and watching his father stroke a loving hand through Little Joe\u2019s hair was all he\u2019d hoped and prayed for, but never really allowed himself to believe possible. Adam took a deep breath of the chilly night air and leaned comfortably against the side of the house. A man who hadn\u2019t gone through what the Cartwrights had endured might have only noticed the scent of pine trees and chimney smoke. Adam knew better. For the first time in a long time, the air was full of promise.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

The sound of his own harsh breathing finally awakened him. Joe peered frantically around the pitch dark bedroom.\u00a0 He tried telling himself it was just a dream, but it sure felt real. His heart just about pounded itself out of his chest.\u00a0 Swiping a sleeve across his sweaty forehead, he tried to push the panic aside.\u00a0 He should just get up and see for himself that everything was all right. \u00a0That would be the smart thing to do, but his body wouldn\u2019t cooperate.<\/p>\n

As much as he wanted to reassure himself that his pa and brothers were there, he was scared to death what looking might prove\u2014that everyone was gone, and he was alone. Being alone was the worst thing that could happen. \u00a0Alone meant people were gone and never came back.\u00a0 And if he left his room and couldn\u2019t find anyone, that meant it had finally, really happened, and he didn\u2019t think he could stand knowing it was really, actually true.<\/p>\n

He curled into himself as tears coursed down his cheeks. Even as he tried to choke back all sound, he heard the whimpers escaping the back of his throat. It was getting harder to breathe, and he was starting to feel a little sick to his stomach, and wasn\u2019t that just great to be sick with no one there to help him . . .<\/p>\n

He had his eyes squeezed shut, so when a hand brushed the back of his head, he jumped a little in alarm.<\/p>\n

\u201cBuddy?\u00a0 Joe?\u00a0 Come on, now . . . you\u2019re all right.\u00a0 Listen up . . . breathe with me.\u00a0 Keep it slow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Warm, familiar hands stroked the sweaty hair off his forehead and rubbed his shoulder soothingly.\u00a0 Joe focused on the sound of his brother\u2019s voice and matched his breathing to Adam\u2019s example.<\/p>\n

When he was able to open his eyes, he found Adam kneeling at the side of his bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m okay now,\u201d Joe whispered.\u00a0 \u201cThanks.\u201d He struggled to sit up and hung his legs over the side of the bed.\u00a0 Adam backed off to pour him a glass of water from the pitcher.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d Joe whispered. \u201cDid I wake anyone else?\u201d<\/p>\n

When Adam shook his head, Joe relaxed a little. The thought of disturbing his father\u2019s sleep, especially with something as babyish as a nightmare, was awful. What would Pa think of a twelve-year-old who woke up sobbing from some stupid dream?<\/p>\n

\u201cSame dream?\u201d\u00a0 Adam asked.<\/p>\n

His brother took the water glass from him and put it on the side table.\u00a0 Joe shifted back onto the bed and allowed Adam to straighten the tangled blankets.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Joe sighed as he rolled over to face Adam. \u201cI\u2019m all alone, and I don\u2019t know where everyone is, and I want to look for you, but I can\u2019t move . . . I can\u2019t even yell for help.\u201d A familiar tightness gripped his chest again from just remembering the dream, and his heart pounded so hard he figured even Adam could hear it.<\/p>\n

Adam knew the signs. Without making a big fuss about it, Adam went around to the other side of the bed and stretched out on top of the quilt next to him. Joe grabbed his brother\u2019s arm and forced himself to breathe slow and even\u2014just the way Adam had taught him over the years.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d Joe asked, \u201cWhy do I keep having this dream?\u00a0 Pa is home, and everything is the way it should be.\u201d<\/p>\n

It took Adam a moment to answer him.\u00a0 Joe waited patiently; he really wanted to figure out how to make this stuff stop.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe, part of you can\u2019t believe Pa\u2019s home, and we\u2019re all together again. Maybe that\u2019s <\/em>what feels like a dream, and you don\u2019t trust it yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe,\u201d Joe said.\u00a0 It did seem kind of strange\u2014but, in a good way\u2014to have Pa and Hop Sing with them.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan you sleep now?\u00a0 We\u2019ve got a big day ahead of us.\u201d\u00a0 At Joe\u2019s nod, Adam got up and started for the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook, why don\u2019t you . . . I don\u2019t know, decide . . . that next time you find yourself in the dream, you\u2019re going to holler and fight and not give up until you find us.\u00a0 What do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam murmured a \u201cgood night\u201d and left, closing the bedroom door softly behind him. Joe scooted down further into his quilts. He was pretty sure he could go back to sleep. Usually, the dream didn\u2019t come to him twice in the same night. He wondered about Adam\u2019s advice. It sounded good, but Joe wasn\u2019t at all sure a fellow could do anything helpful when he found himself caught inside a nightmare.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

A snifter of brandy, a fine cigar and a hearty meal at one of Carson City\u2019s finer restaurants primed Henry\u2019s mood for a peaceful, private evening after a strenuous day\u2019s work on the behalf of others. \u00a0Finding his salary lender\u2019s associate, Grant, cooling his heels on the porch was more than disappointing; it was downright alarming.<\/p>\n

Although he would have dearly loved to send the man on his way, Henry lacked the courage.\u00a0 He was no match for Grant, and they both knew it. The lender\u2019s pet ruffian had arrived unannounced (but not totally unexpected) and shouldered his way into the Lindstrom residence.\u00a0 Smirking at Henry, the lout had run a hand through blond hair slick with pomade before casually locking the door behind them. After checking the house to ensure they were alone, he\u2019d strolled into Henry\u2019s library and helped himself to a generous portion of good brandy from the crystal decanter.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll bet you know why I\u2019m here,\u201d Grant said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have the money,\u201d Henry replied. There was no use dancing around the subject.\u00a0 Deflection irritated Grant, and Henry would prefer to avoid unpleasantness if possible.<\/p>\n

Grant regarded him without comment.\u00a0 Abruptly, the man swept his arm across the sideboard sending the crystal decanter set crashing to the floor, soiling the fine rug with brandy and glass.\u00a0 Henry jumped at the sudden violence, unable to smother a small sound of frightened protest.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have the money?\u00a0 Looks to me like you have everything money can buy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat I mean,\u201d Henry drew a silk handkerchief from his vest pocket and dabbed his perspiring face, \u201cis that I do not have the cash available. Certainly, your employer . . . Mr. Forrest is welcome to\u00a0 . . .\u201d Horace made a sweeping gesture indicating his home and all its furnishings.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Forrest,\u201d Grant edged close\u2014far too close for Henry\u2019s comfort, \u201cisn\u2019t interested in elegant gewgaws.\u00a0 Mr. Forrest isn\u2019t interested in the services you provided Grady.\u00a0 The only thing Mr. Forrest is interested in is cash. Henry, how are you going to get Mr. Forrest his cash?\u201d Grant emphasized his words by flicking the point of a rather terrifying knife against Henry\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n

How indeed?\u00a0 Henry didn\u2019t have a clue how to proceed. Grady had always taken care of these issues.\u00a0 Grady would have paid Forrest and prevented this intrusion.\u00a0 While it would be incorrect to say that Henry missed Grady; he certainly missed the benefits of their long association. \u00a0In exchange for paying his debts and protecting him from unsavory characters such as Forrest and his thugs, Henry had provided Grady with valuable information and covert influence.\u00a0 Their partnership had enriched Grady and ensured Henry\u2019s access to the luxuries he craved.<\/p>\n

This is all Grady\u2019s fault . . .<\/em><\/p>\n

Even in his terror, Henry raged at his deceased associate. Grady had been more than stupid; he\u2019d been delusional.\u00a0 Now, all this trouble was laid at Henry\u2019s<\/em> doorstep because of one kid and something that had happened over seven years ago . . .<\/p>\n

Henry was careful to keep his distance from Grady in public. It wouldn\u2019t do for honest citizens to notice their relationship. Sitting in a comfortable rocker situated in the shade of the hotel veranda, Henry had caught Grady\u2019s eye as soon as the man stepped out of the mercantile. Grady responded with a barely perceptible nod, and the message was passed. They would meet later at the usual location.<\/em><\/p>\n

Nearly under Grady\u2019s feet, a small child played in the dust in front of the store heedless of the wagons, horses, and crowd.\u00a0 No doubt, the boy had been deposited there by a parent intent on completing errands.\u00a0 The kid had his hands in the dirt, sifting the grainy soil through his fingers and making a perfect mess of his overalls. <\/em><\/p>\n

Grady stepped into the street, intending to maneuver around the child. Perhaps distracted from his play by the man\u2019s shadow, the little fellow tilted his face up to Grady. The man paused and studied the little urchin. Even from his vantage point at the hotel, Henry could plainly see the mop of dark curls, wide green eyes and angelic features. At the time, he had been amused at the tableau. Grady didn\u2019t care for children. He didn\u2019t care for anyone other than himself.<\/em><\/p>\n

A ruckus from a nearby saloon boiled over into the street. A drunken miner pulled out the pistol tucked in his britches and shot wildly into the air. No harm was intended. But the horse hitched to a wagon being loaded with supplies wasn\u2019t accustomed to gunfire and started a ruckus of its own. The wagon rocked hard with the horse\u2019s motion overturning the barrels stacked carelessly on the tail gate. Two barrels rolled to the edge of the wagon toward the little fellow. The collective gasp of fear from bystanders close enough to observe but too far away to help was followed by a loud whoop of relief when Ezra Grady snatched the child out of harm\u2019s way.<\/em><\/p>\n

This was too good to miss! Henry left his chair and approached the crowd surrounding Grady and the little boy. Grady was practically glowing from the attention and compliments paid by folks who would have ordinarily crossed the street to avoid him. He smiled at the little guy in his arms, chucking him under the chin and praising him for being a brave little tyke. Henry had to concur; the child was completely composed as if being miraculously saved from grievous injury was a normal part of his day.<\/em><\/p>\n

Henry turned at the sound of running footsteps pounding up behind him. A dark-haired teenager closely followed by a good-sized blonde boy pushed through the crowd. The child in Grady\u2019s arms bestowed a sunny smile on the newcomers.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mr. Grady! We\u2019re in your debt.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0Henry recognized the teenager as Ben Cartwright\u2019s eldest son. <\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t mention it, boy. Anyone would have done the same,\u201d Grady pompously announced to the approval of the crowd.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ll take him now, sir,\u201d replied Adam. \u201cCome here, Little Joe. We need to find Pa.\u201d Lifting the child from Grady\u2019s arms, his older brother checked him thoroughly and whispered something that might have been a scolding into the kid\u2019s ear. Setting Little Joe on his feet, Adam took him firmly by the hand, and the trio headed toward the bank.\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cGood-bye, Little Joe,\u201d Grady called. The child responded with a cheery wave of his hand.<\/em><\/p>\n

The crowd dispersed, leaving Grady and Henry to themselves. Grady\u2019s eyes tracked the boys as they met their father outside the bank.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHave you ever seen a boy like that before, Henry?\u201d Grady murmured, never taking his eyes off Little Joe. \u201cThere\u2019s a boy who reflects well on a man. People admire and respect the man who has a boy like that.\u201d\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

Grady craved public approval like a cat craved warm milk; he just wasn\u2019t willing to do what was necessary to earn that approval. Henry pretended to agree.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a waste of opportunity to allow a fine boy to play in the dirt where just anything could happen to him,\u201d Grady mused.\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

Henry shrugged; he was no more interested in children than Grady . . .<\/em><\/p>\n

Grant\u2019s snarl broke through Henry\u2019s musing, \u201cI\u2019m not sure I have your attention. Let me be perfectly clear. My job is to make sure you come up with Mr. Forrest\u2019s money, every penny you borrowed, plus a little interest for the trouble you\u2019ve caused.\u201d<\/p>\n

Swallowing with difficulty, Henry walked unsteadily to his desk.\u00a0 He had little cash. Forrest knew better than to accept his bank draft.\u00a0 What could he do?\u00a0 What did he have to trade or promise?<\/p>\n

Think, Henry!<\/em><\/p>\n

As soon as he noticed the telegram from Virginia City announcing the startling news of Ben Cartwright\u2019s return, Henry realized he had his solution.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Grant,\u201d Henry pleaded, \u201cI believe I know a way out of this difficulty. If you would be kind enough to provide me with assistance in pursuing a lucrative opportunity, your employer will have his money.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grant\u2019s eyes narrowed in suspicion, but he allowed Henry to explain his idea and agreed to render the requested assistance.\u00a0 Left alone to attend to the necessary details, Henry pondered his narrow escape.\u00a0 He even dredged up a bit of grudging respect for his old associate. If Grady had taught him anything over the long years of their association, he had taught him to never squander an opportunity.<\/p>\n

Chapter 2<\/strong><\/p>\n

Hoss had been ready to go for an hour. He\u2019d eaten his breakfast, toted in firewood, hitched up the wagon, and saddled Adam\u2019s horse as well as his own. Tapping his foot impatiently, he watched his little brother and father fuss over how much<\/em> breakfast was enough<\/em> breakfast. Hop Sing ended the argument by whisking away Joe\u2019s plate and shooing both father and son away from the table. He couldn\u2019t even count on Adam. Ignoring the ruckus in the dining room as well as Hoss\u2019s impatient glares, Adam kept on puttering around at Pa\u2019s desk.<\/p>\n

If folks don\u2019t get a move on pretty darn soon, they just might find themselves scooped up and tossed into that dadburn wagon.\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

It took every bit of another thirty minutes to get them all out of the house and into the wagon.\u00a0 And wouldn\u2019t you know it, little brother had to holler for them to stop when they\u2019d barely moved an inch just so he could run back into the house for the fancy knife Pa had given him. Hoss was never one for spanking, but Joe deserved a swat for that trick.<\/p>\n

Finally, finally<\/em> they were on the road. Joe was bouncing on the seat next to Pa talkin\u2019 about showing his knife to friends at school, and Pa meeting his teacher, and gettin\u2019 their stuff from the boarding house and so on until Hoss was sure his ears were gonna start bleedin\u2019 from the racket his little brother made.<\/p>\n

When Hoss rode ahead of the wagon\u2014just to get away from the noise (and maybe hurry\u2019em up a mite), he caught Adam grinning at him. Fine, maybe he was actin\u2019 a little ornery; Joe was just a kid after all, but this was a big day!<\/p>\n

As far as Hoss was concerned, this day had been a long time coming. He just knew that like flowers budding beneath the final snow melt, the Ponderosa would bloom and grow again under his father\u2019s guidance.\u00a0 In a few more hours after they saw the judge, the Ponderosa would be back in Pa\u2019s hands.\u00a0 They could pick up where they left off seven years ago.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Grant shrugged deeper into his coat in defense against the chilly air. He preferred to see dawn at the tail end of a good time\u2014not at the beginning of a long day cleaning up someone else\u2019s mess. The kid who took care of the horse and shay had the little buggy hitched to Henry\u2019s blooded mare within a few minutes.\u00a0 Climbing up, Grant settled back into the plush upholstery and ran his hand over the soft leather of the double-seat rig.\u00a0 It looked like it was nothing but the best for Henry.<\/p>\n

He had to give it to the guy.\u00a0 He was a real master at keeping his hands clean. Of course, if old Henry didn\u2019t watch himself, he\u2019d take those clean hands to an early grave. Grant chuckled at his own joke and slapped the reins, encouraging the little mare to ease out of the yard and down the road toward Virginia City.<\/p>\n

No point in getting riled up over an early morning chore. Drive a few hours down the road, take care of business, and head back. With any luck, he\u2019d be back with Henry\u2019s security by mid-afternoon.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Ben barely restrained a flinch at the shout of recognition from another old acquaintance. Doyle McNab thundered up to him and threw a bruising arm around Ben\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

He returned Doyle\u2019s embrace and assured the man that \u201cyes, it\u2019s really me!\u201d Ben remembered to laugh and joke about how much McNab\u2019s son had grown since they had last seen each other. He supposed that Doyle hadn\u2019t meant any harm by the remark, but it hit him in a vulnerable place nonetheless, reminding him how much his own<\/em> son had grown in that time. Was it ungracious to want Doyle to leave him alone and move along? Ben had hoped for a few quiet words with Joseph before school started, but it appeared the moment had passed. Since he was reunited with his sons, he was astonished at how protective he felt about them, especially Joseph.<\/p>\n

Finally, Doyle remarked that it was time for their boys to get inside the school house, and time for the men to get on with their own work. Ben breathed a silent hallelujah all the while thanking him for his good wishes and promising to come by for dinner with the McNab family sometime very soon.<\/p>\n

Ben waved at Joseph as the boy disappeared into the schoolhouse with his friends. The boy had excitedly introduced him to his teachers and friends. He had no doubt that Joe would regale everyone with tales of Sacramento and his newly returned pa. Hopefully, his son would manage to pay at least a little attention to the teacher.<\/p>\n

Already the attention he\u2019d received in the short time they\u2019d been in town felt overwhelming.\u00a0 Ben\u2019s stress increased with the approach of every man or woman who\u2019d grabbed his hand in greeting or caught his eye in open curiosity. For the last seven years, survival had frequently depended on being suspicious of his surroundings. Although he\u2019d never lost his compassion or humanity, it had been a very long time since he had allowed himself to be casually vulnerable to his fellow man. The habits honed over seven years had kept him alive, and he couldn\u2019t just shut off those instincts.<\/p>\n

As Doyle said, it was time to move along. Ben and his older sons were expected at Hiram Wood\u2019s office before court convened. There were various documents and bank records that needed reviewing.\u00a0 Yet, he found himself reluctant to leave the school yard. Inexplicably, his instincts were screaming at him to stick close, to not let Joseph out of his sight.<\/p>\n

It was just foolishness on his part. Ben gave himself a mental command to concentrate<\/em> and followed Adam and Hoss toward their lawyer\u2019s office. Nevertheless, he was still so distracted that he nearly walked into the side of a little rig fancy enough for a judge hitched across the street from the school house. Chuckling at his clumsiness, Ben smiled up at the owner of the rig. The slick-haired dandy nodded a polite greeting, but the fellow\u2019s cold stare didn\u2019t quell Ben\u2019s uneasiness a bit.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Adam found himself watching the clock rather than paying strict attention to the court proceedings. Judge Lindstrom had apparently decided to deal with all of the small fines, petty crimes, and property disputes in the territory before attending to the restoration of the Cartwright holdings. Adam wouldn\u2019t be surprised to find the judge was deliberately delaying the case for its dramatic appeal. The court room was packed with spectators; everyone had made it plain they wanted to see Ben Cartwright and hear the story of his miraculous return.<\/p>\n

Adam shifted a bit in the hard chair and rolled his tense shoulders. Lindstrom had always been tediously devoted to courtroom ritual and generally long-winded in his commentaries. Even so, today was exceptional. Documents were read and re-read thoroughly. Witnesses were questioned to within an inch of their lives. Judgments rendered overflowed with verbal flourishes. In short, Lindstrom behaved as if time had no meaning despite the judge\u2019s frequent peeks at his pocket watch.<\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t detect any impatience from his father. Ben remained quiet throughout the lengthy proceedings. Adam had always remembered his father as a patient man, but he supposed Ben\u2019s ordeal had added a layer of stoic endurance.<\/p>\n

When Roy Coffee, in his role as bailiff, announced their case, Adam heard his father sigh in relief.\u00a0 He rose to his feet alongside his father and brother.\u00a0 As a family, they approached the judge.\u00a0 There were just a few minor obstacles remaining before they could finally put this ordeal behind them.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Not for the first time, Abigail Jones wondered why she had chosen to be a teacher. Of course, the job provided necessary income as well as a break from her mother\u2019s constant supervision. That said, the first months of her teaching career had been such a test of her patience and energy even her mother\u2019s muddleheaded matchmaking schemes appeared inviting.<\/p>\n

She shut the door after the final child rushed inside the schoolhouse.\u00a0 Smoothing her skirts, she scanned the crowd of noisy students busily removing coats and chatting up neighbors. \u00a0A few touches to small shoulders and reminders for silence were enough to organize the youngest children. The older boys were more challenging, and almost all of them were clustered around Little Joe Cartwright\u2019s desk. She heard his excited chatter above the din of questions and comments from his audience. As much as she understood Joe\u2019s excitement, order had to be maintained.<\/p>\n

Straightening her shoulders and steeling her gaze, she approached the group. Abigail had been cultivating her air of authority since the beginning of the school year, and it looked as if the crop was finally bearing fruit. She was able to stare most of the boys into self-conscious silence, and everyone seated themselves without argument. She hovered over Little Joe\u2019s shoulder, curious to see the object drawing their attention.\u00a0 Aware of her scrutiny, Joe turned in his seat and offered up an exquisitely carved knife along with his most charming smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy pa gave it to me for my birthday,\u201d he said. \u201cPa said it was carved by an Indian way up north just for me. My pa walked for miles and miles to come home to us.\u201d Joe\u2019s eyes were shining, and Abigail found his repeated use of \u201cmy pa\u201d touching. Well, he was certainly entitled to his excitement.<\/p>\n

\u201cPut it away for now,\u201d she directed. \u201cWould you like to tell everyone about it after lunch?\u201d Joe blushed with pleasure and nodded enthusiastically. Patting him on the shoulder, she headed for her desk.<\/p>\n

Abigail had barely begun the morning lesson when the door scraped open revealing a finely-dressed man reeking of hair oil and menace.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

The courtroom sat enthralled while Ben Cartwright testified as to the circumstances of his disappearance seven years earlier. Telling the story was more difficult than he\u2019d anticipated. The first few moments were a series of stops and starts, coupled with long silences and finally a request for a glass of water. After a time, Ben found a rhythm. Distancing himself, as if he were merely reading a newspaper account, helped him focus. He related how he\u2019d been assaulted in Sacramento and sold to a crimp.\u00a0 He told of his forced service aboard a merchant ship and his escape from the Sandwich Islands only to find himself trapped in a sea of ice for years. Finally, he described the confrontation with Higdon in Sacramento, his reunion with his family, and meeting Ezra Grady in Purdy Canyon.<\/p>\n

When Ben\u2019s voice faded into silence, it was replaced with a collective sigh of satisfaction from his audience although Judge Lindstrom appeared remarkably unmoved by the account.<\/p>\n

Ben waited patiently for the next question. The silence stretched as the judge scanned a note delivered during Ben\u2019s testimony. Finally, the judge commented.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were a sailor once.\u201d<\/p>\n

That hadn\u2019t been what Ben had expected to hear. \u201cYes, I believe it is common knowledge.\u201d<\/p>\n

The judge tapped his pencil against the desktop. \u201cWhy did you go to sea?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose for the adventure. I wanted to see the world,\u201d Ben replied cautiously. The judge\u2019s manner concerned him\u2014danger lurked, but Ben couldn\u2019t see its hiding place. \u201cI was a young man with no family responsibilities.\u201d Judge Lindstrom nodded sagely.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt the time of your departure, you were suffering greatly from the recent demise of your wife, Marie\u2014were you not?\u201d<\/p>\n

Departure??? \u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cMy wife died a few months before I was taken.\u201d Ben wouldn\u2019t allow any other insinuation to stand. \u201cOf course, I grieved then as I still do. However, I was not suffering greatly<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d the judge smirked. However, he quickly lost his smirk in the face of Ben\u2019s obvious anger.\u00a0 Out of the corner of his eye, Ben noticed Hiram\u2019s \u201csimmer down\u201d gestures. Huffing in aggravation, Ben complied with his lawyer\u2019s wishes.<\/p>\n

Lindstrom cleared his throat. \u201cIn the matter of restoration of personal and real property and other financial instruments, there is no question regarding the gentleman\u2019s identity and ownership of said items.\u00a0 All accounts held in trust will be immediately returned to Mr. Cartwright\u2019s control.\u201d<\/p>\n

The judge added his signature\u2014Henry P. Lindstrom\u2014affixed his seal, and handed the order to Hiram Wood.<\/p>\n

Ben could see his sons nearly vibrating with relief and excitement.\u00a0 He was certain their celebration was premature. \u00a0Something else was coming.<\/p>\n

The judge turned his attention to a stack of documents before him, flipping through the pages before finding what he sought.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe final order of business is Mr. Cartwright\u2019s petition to restore his parental rights over the youngest son, Joseph Francis Cartwright. I have a letter submitted by Adam Cartwright from the child\u2019s guardian, Abel Stoddard, who was so designated by this court seven years ago on the occasion of the father\u2019s disappearance.\u00a0 The letter reads in part, \u2018Adam, now that your father has returned, let him know I am delighted to relinquish my custodial rights over Little Joe. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

The judge paused a moment to withdraw a silky handkerchief from his suit coat to dab at his face. \u201cThis simplifies matters.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

The stranger advanced confidently into the room, his eyes searching the children\u2019s faces. Recognition flickered, and he strode quickly toward Joe Cartwright. Abigail tossed her lesson book down and hurried to insinuate herself between them.<\/p>\n

\u201cMay I help you?\u201d Abigail was suddenly more afraid than she\u2019d ever been in her life. She glanced down at Little Joe, frozen in his chair. I\u2019m responsible for him, for all of them<\/em>.\u00a0 She met the stranger\u2019s gaze squarely even though her stomach churned as he grinned at her audacity.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, young lady,\u201d the stranger placed his hand firmly on Joe\u2019s shoulder. \u201cWhile I appreciate your offer, I don\u2019t require any help.\u00a0 Joseph will be leaving with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Lindstrom peered briefly at Ben before dropping his eyes back to his paperwork. The judge made another dab at his perspiring brow before continuing.<\/p>\n

\u201cMany of us here remember the circumstances . . . and consequences . . . of Mr. Cartwright\u2019s departure.\u00a0 We have seen the suffering endured by those left behind\u2014the privations, the burden of grief.\u00a0 We witnessed the oldest son forced to forgo education to care for his siblings.\u00a0 We witnessed the middle son grow to manhood without the guidance of his father\u00a0 . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced at his sons. Hoss\u2019s face was red with outrage. Adam\u2019s glare was so heated Ben wondered the judge didn\u2019t burst into flames.<\/p>\n

\u201c . . . the most regrettable consequence of a most unforgiveable act has been the suffering endured by the youngest, most vulnerable member of the family.\u00a0 It is in witness to this suffering, I am compelled to act.\u201d<\/p>\n

Judge Lindstrom paused and gestured for Hiram Wood to approach. He handed the lawyer a document.<\/p>\n

\u201cAbandoning one\u2019s family is despicable behavior. In light of the long separation from family, and the fantastic\u2014and as most people would agree\u2014unbelievable<\/em>, string of events offered as explanation of his absence, the court finds itself in a most unpleasant position.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u201cCaleb, go find the sheriff, please.\u201d Abigail was vaguely pleased to hear her voice trembled only slightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cCaleb,\u201d the stranger interrupted before the boy could react, \u201cThere\u2019s no need to go to that trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy hesitated and looked to Abigail for guidance.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo,\u201d she said firmly and dared the stranger to contradict her. Caleb eased over to the door, never taking his eyes off the man. The door banged shut after him. Abigail watched the youngster sprint past the window. The man shrugged and tightened his grip on Joe\u2019s shoulder eliciting a soft hiss of pain.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no reason to be concerned,\u201d the man said, \u201cI have the legal right to take Joseph with me.\u201d\u00a0 Reaching into his suit coat, he withdrew a sheet of fine vellum ornamented with an official seal and handed it to Abigail.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere must be some mistake, Mr. Grant,\u201d Abigail insisted. She scanned the court order, recognizing the signature and seal. \u201cMr. Ben Cartwright was here this morning.\u00a0 And Joseph\u2019s brother has always had responsibility for him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does it say?\u201d Joe asked.\u00a0 Abigail had avoided looking at him, fearing she would lose her composure altogether.\u00a0 Seeing Joe\u2019s terrified face, she couldn\u2019t find the words to answer him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt says, kid, that I\u2019m your guardian now,\u201d the man let go of Joe\u2019s shoulder to grab him under the chin.\u00a0 He turned the boy\u2019s face up to his own, \u201cand your guardian says you\u2019re leaving.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t goin\u2019 nowhere with you,\u201d Joe promised. That was good enough for Abigail.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe sheriff will sort this out when he gets here.\u201d She thrust the document back at the man.<\/p>\n

Instead of taking the document from her, he closed a large first around her hand, trapping the paper in her grasp.\u00a0 Squeezing her knuckles together, he stroked his thumb in small circles over her wrist in perverted mockery of a lover\u2019s caress.\u00a0 As the pressure became more intense, Abigail bit her lip to keep from crying out.<\/p>\n

He leaned in close and whispered, \u201cI\u2019m not waiting for the sheriff.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tears welled up in her eyes from pain and helpless frustration.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re hurting her,\u201d Joe accused, his face flushed with temper. No! Joseph, don\u2019t fight him!<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not . . .\u201d she began until a hard squeeze stole her breath.\u00a0 A change to the angle of his grip nearly made her knees buckle.<\/p>\n

\u201cStop it!\u00a0 I\u2019ll go with you,\u201d Joe shouted. He grabbed the coat thrown carelessly over his chair and pulled it on quickly. \u201cLeave her alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man eyed him up and down. \u201cSmart kid. Are you goin\u2019 to give me any trouble?\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe shook his head and reached for his satchel.<\/p>\n

\u201cLeave it,\u201d the man growled, \u201cStand right there.\u201d Joe stood stock still, fists clenched.<\/p>\n

Slowly releasing the painful pressure on her hand, the ruffian drew it to his lips for a soft kiss.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s been a pleasure, miss.\u201d<\/p>\n

He dropped her hand, grinning at her revulsion. He grabbed Joe by the arm tugging him through the door.\u00a0 The slam echoed through a room silent except for the sobs of the smaller children.<\/p>\n

Abigail ran to the window to watch Joe pushed into a fancy double seat rig.\u00a0 The stranger slapped the reins, and the rig disappeared down the Carson City road.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Hiram Wood read the court order. \u00a0<\/em>Ben was staring intently at him, clearly hoping for some explanation.<\/p>\n

\u201cJudge, with all due respect, may we discuss this order?\u201d Hiram asked with as much courtesy as he could summon. Somehow, he wasn\u2019t surprised at the judge\u2019s negative response. Regardless, he couldn\u2019t allow this to happen without objection.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps, the oldest brother could be named guardian in the interim?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think not. The eldest brother is clearly under the father\u2019s influence.\u201d<\/p>\n

The judge continued dabbing at the perspiration shining on his brow. Seeing further argument was coming, Lindstrom held up his hand to forestall any more questions.\u00a0 Instead, he directed his next words to the shocked audience.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn his letter, Abel Stoddard has clearly relinquished his custodial rights in deference to the returning father. That would ordinarily represent a sound judgment. However in this case, the care and protection of the child is called into question in light of the father\u2019s apparent lack of commitment to familial responsibility. Therefore, the court orders the child be placed immediately under the temporary protection of an individual I have so designated in this order.\u00a0 A hearing to decide permanent custody will be held in three days. Court is adjourned.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lindstrom rapped his gavel and gathered up his paperwork in preparation for a quick exit.<\/p>\n

Outraged shouts echoed through the room. Over the considerable din, Hiram heard Hoss pleading for someone to help him understand what had just happened. Roy moved through the crowd, hushing the loudest voices and herding the onlookers to the door.<\/p>\n

Hiram watched Ben shake himself loose of the clamor and head toward the judge.\u00a0 Hoping to keep a bad situation from getting worse, Hiram caught Ben\u2019s arm, momentarily restraining him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to talk to him,\u201d Ben said. \u201cCome along if you like.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hiram released his arm, and they managed to catch Judge Lindstrom before he slipped out through the back exit.\u00a0 Ben stepped up so close to the judge the man probably feared for his shoe shine.<\/p>\n

\u201cJudge Lindstrom, what just happened here?\u201d Ben demanded. Hiram considered that an excellent question, but he wasn\u2019t counting on a straight answer.<\/p>\n

\u201cI believe I made myself perfectly clear,\u201d the judge said. \u201cYou may plead your case in three days.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben wasn\u2019t giving up. \u201cHenry, you know me. You\u2019ve known me for years.\u00a0 Just tell me. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

Henry briefly considered his answer. The simple truth might do.<\/p>\n

\u201cRestitution is expected.\u201d Ben and his lawyer were obviously baffled. He took advantage of their confusion to push past the pair and leave the building.<\/p>\n

Ben turned expectantly back to Hiram. The lawyer had finally collected and organized his thoughts, and his stomach churned in sympathy for the distraught father.<\/p>\n

\u201cBen, please tell me that Little Joe is on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Abigail spent considerable time soothing the children before sending them all home. Clearly, no one would be capable of concentrating on lessons.\u00a0 Once the classroom was empty, emotion and pain nearly overwhelmed her. Sinking into one of the student chairs, she contemplated her hand, bruised and already swelling.<\/p>\n

What will Mother say?\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n

The vision of the histrionics awaiting her forced out a very unladylike snort. Pressing her healthy hand across her lips, Abigail smothered the inappropriate giggles that erupted. When the giggles melted into tears, she knew she had to get hold of herself.\u00a0 It wouldn\u2019t do for the sheriff and the Cartwright family to see her like this.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

In their haste to get to Little Joe, the Cartwrights nearly ran over the youngster who had been waiting anxiously outside the courtroom trying to get the sheriff\u2019s attention. Their progress was spurred on by the desperate hope that somehow they wouldn\u2019t be too late.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, the silent, barren school yard told its own story. They found only the teacher waiting for them.\u00a0 Joe\u2019s satchel was still on his desk\u2014the prized knife tucked safely inside. The \u201cguardian\u201d and Joe were long gone.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are we gonna do, Pa?\u201d \u00a0Hoss\u2019s eyes blazed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to find your little brother,\u201d Ben promised.\u00a0 \u201cAnd we\u2019re going to bring him home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 3<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I know how you feel,\u201d Roy said.<\/p>\n

He believed he really did know, mostly. During the last seven years, Roy had gotten mighty close to those boys, and he had a special soft spot for Little Joe. It hurt him to think of the boy carted off by some stranger without even an explanation. More than that, it scared him to hear how the man had intimidated Miss Jones.<\/p>\n

Something about Ben\u2019s expression suggested he didn\u2019t believe Roy had so much as a clue as to how he felt. Well, so be it. Roy still had a job to do. He threw up his hands to stop Ben and his boys from charging right out of that schoolhouse.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t go and get him,\u201d Roy stated flatly. Before Ben could do more than sputter in rage, Hiram jumped in to help.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe is, for the moment, legally in the custody of this man. Ben, if you and the boys were to take him back, the judge could have you jailed for kidnapping.\u201d<\/p>\n

That bit of information uncorked the bottle. Hoss sent up a hue and cry about the injustice of it all while Adam pounded one of the desks so hard Roy feared the young man would break his hand.\u00a0 Poor Miss Jones started sobbing out right.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan we go to the judge about what happened here? What that man did to Miss Jones?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

Hiram considered the suggestion.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Jones,\u201d the attorney asked. \u201cDid the man threaten you or raise a hand to you or Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not exactly, but I can\u2019t emphasize enough how very frightening he was,\u201d Abigail responded, \u201cand . . . \u00a0he squeezed my hand so<\/em> forcefully. . .\u201d Abigail wiped her eyes. \u201cSomehow, saying it out loud makes me sound rather foolish, doesn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ain\u2019t bein\u2019 a bit foolish,\u201d Hoss comforted the teacher.<\/p>\n

Hiram decided to plunge on. \u201cA circuit judge is given a great deal of discretion\u2014but even so, I think he overstepped his authority. However, that doesn\u2019t help us much at the moment. We would have to ask a territorial official to overturn the court order. It could take weeks to get someone to consider the case at all, much less intervene in naming a different guardian. I hate to say it, Ben, but it would probably be best to concentrate on the hearing already scheduled.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, we just leave our little brother with this yahoo?\u201d Hoss growled. Roy had never heard the young man sound so fierce.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Hiram answered, \u201cuntil the hearing.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam exchanged glances. Roy had been around the Cartwright boys for years and had a fair idea what they were planning.<\/p>\n

Hoss turned to Ben.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you don\u2019t mind, Pa,\u201d he said, just as calm and casual as if they\u2019d been discussing checking the herd, \u201cI need some time to think about all this. I\u2019m gonna take me a little ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grabbing his arm, Roy tried to get Hoss to look him in the eye. \u201cHoss, don\u2019t you do anything rash, son.\u201d\u00a0 The boy shook loose from his grasp.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u00a0 I won\u2019t be too late.\u201d When Ben nodded, Hoss turned on his heel and stalked out of the building.<\/p>\n

Everyone turned to Hiram. If the lawyer had the solution to this puzzle, Roy sure wished he\u2019d tell them now.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to present a sound case for restoration of parental rights,\u201d Hiram mused. \u201cI wish I understood the judge\u2019s concerns. What would he accept as evidence?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll just have to ask him, won\u2019t I?\u201d Ben replied.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Grant leaned back into the plush chair, toeing his boots off before propping his feet on the ottoman. He had a bottle of good whiskey in his hand, and a hot supper was on its way.\u00a0 He was entitled to enjoy everything in Henry\u2019s house for enduring this ridiculous day.<\/p>\n

Lord, he hated kids. He especially loathed the mouthy brat cooling his heels in the attic room. The two of them had barely left the school yard before the boy began demanding to know what was happening. A little smack in the mouth had taught him a lesson about talking out of turn.<\/p>\n

When Grant pulled off the road to let the mare breathe, the kid had bounded over the side of the rig and made a dash for the tree line. It didn\u2019t take much effort to snag him, but the kid had fought like a demon\u2014yelling, kicking, and flinging whatever brush and gravel he could grab at Grant. With his suit soiled and patience shredded, Grant had removed his belt and tanned the kid into sobbing submission.<\/p>\n

He grinned at the memory; the kid hadn\u2019t fought him a bit on the way back to the rig, just dragged his feet and sniffed back tears. Grant figured he\u2019d made his point by the way the boy twisted and shifted around painfully on that fancy leather bench. He\u2019d let the little snot know there\u2019d be plenty of hurt coming if he tried any more tricks.<\/p>\n

That boy must not be good and smart.<\/em><\/p>\n

The kid made a second attempt when the buggy slowed to make the final turn into town.\u00a0 Clearly, he was hardheaded and ornery, but Grant expected a little better judgment than jumping out of a moving rig. He didn\u2019t even have to chase the kid this time, just hauled him out of the bush he\u2019d landed in and tossed him back into the buggy. If the boy looked worse for wear, it was his own damn fault. If he was hungry and thirsty by the time they\u2019d arrived, that was his own damn fault, too. Grant had never believed in spoiling kids, and he didn\u2019t see any reason to reward the brat who\u2019d tried his patience all day long. If the kid was civil, he could eat in the morning.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour meal is ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

The voice behind him jerked him out of his thoughts. Henry\u2019s good whiskey was doing a fine job of taking the edge off the day, and he hadn\u2019t heard the housekeeper come up behind him. The plain woman, a little older than Henry and always buttoned up in a severe black dress, customarily served all of his meals with a side dish of disdain.<\/p>\n

Even so . . . \u00a0Grant supposed all women were the same under certain circumstances.\u00a0 After supper, maybe he\u2019d be ready for a little entertainment.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Hoss had always been told he was a good tracker; but he sure never figured on using the talent to find a stolen brother.<\/p>\n

He hadn\u2019t been lying to Pa when he\u2019d promised not to be gone long. Without any supplies, he couldn\u2019t really do much more than he was doing right now-takin\u2019 a little ride and checkin\u2019 out the landscape.<\/p>\n

Miss Jones had seen the rig start down the Carson City road. Hoss headed out the same way following the actual buggy tracks until he\u2019d lost the signs on the busy road. Too many vehicles and horses traveled this way to tell one set of tracks from another.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t matter. That fancy little rig wasn\u2019t made for anything but a decent road; Hoss couldn\u2019t see the dude trying to cut across open country or use any narrow trails. So he muttered a little prayer and hoped he\u2019d find something that could tell him where that varmint was headed with Little Joe.<\/p>\n

He spotted his first clues about an hour out of town. Shallow ruts were cut into soft soil at the side of the road. Small boot prints, running hard from the looks of them, headed toward a copse of trees.\u00a0 Larger prints met up with the small and collided into signs of a heckuva scuffle.\u00a0 Grass torn up and scattered, rocks had been thrown. Hoss had always admired Joe\u2019s ingenuity. Little brother had known they\u2019d be looking for him, and the boy had found a way to paint a nice clear picture for his family.<\/p>\n

As relieved as he felt knowing he was on the right track, Hoss couldn\u2019t ignore the other signs Joe had left\u2014traces of blood (Skinned knees? Torn up hands? Worse?) remained around a good-sized spot of flattened grass and churned-up dirt. Guess it wasn\u2019t bad enough for the fella to take Little Joe; he had to hurt the boy as well. Hoss pushed the anger down so as to focus on the task at hand. Find the trail; follow the trail.<\/p>\n

From there it was easy enough to pick out the rig\u2019s tracks. Things got more difficult when Hoss came to the junction. The amount of traffic made it difficult to pick out the little rig\u2019s signs. He didn\u2019t want to have to guess which road to follow\u2014one direction took him to Carson City, the other way led to Dayton. Choose wrong, and at the least, valuable time was lost.<\/p>\n

He let his horse meander around a bit, taking a breather as he pondered the problem. He was on top of Joe\u2019s second clue almost before he recognized it, a flattened bush that on closer inspection revealed strands of dark hair caught in the branches.<\/p>\n

The kid had grit. Hoss didn\u2019t want to think about what Joe had gone through to make sure his brothers knew where to come looking for him.<\/p>\n

Carson City. The dandy in his elegant little rig had gone on to Carson City, and Hoss was willing to bet they weren\u2019t just passing through. As much as Hoss wanted to push ahead now that he was certain where Joe was, he knew he couldn\u2019t. He was goin\u2019 to have to leave Little Joe with that lout for just a bit longer. He and Adam had some planning to do.<\/p>\n

Hang on, little brother, we\u2019re coming.<\/em><\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Rozelle was taking a big chance coming up here with Grant still in the house.\u00a0 After years of forced association with the brute, she understood his intentions all too well. At supper, she\u2019d served his meal quickly, carefully keeping her distance all the while. Grant had freely partaken of Henry\u2019s finest liquor.\u00a0 When his behavior shifted from peevish demands to leers and grabs, she\u2019d left the main floor and barricaded herself inside her bedroom. He\u2019d finally given up shouting through the door at her. After several hours of peace, she\u2019d tiptoed to the top of the stairs where she spied him down below passed out on the parlor settee. Bundling the quilts against her chest, she scampered up the attic stairs.<\/p>\n

She unlocked the door with a barely discernible click. Holding her breath, she eased it open and peered inside the little room. Despite the dim light streaming through the small window, she could see him plainly. Wrapped tightly in the thin blanket, the boy lay shivering in an exhausted sleep.<\/p>\n

Her bare feet cramped painfully from contact with the icy floor.\u00a0 She\u2019d warned Grant the room wasn\u2019t suitable for a child. There was no fireplace, not even a brazier. Predictably, he\u2019d been unconcerned. He\u2019d merely pushed the boy inside and pushed her out of the room. Once in the hallway, he\u2019d locked the door and pocketed her key. The idiot hadn\u2019t considered the possibility of more than one key.<\/p>\n

No time to waste. Grant could wake at any moment. Rozelle hurried to the cot, dropping the quilts to the floor before retrieving them one at a time to tuck around the boy.\u00a0 He hardly stirred as she worked, but she sensed that he was comforted.<\/p>\n

She studied his features. Dark curls framed a sweet face. Somehow, the boy reminded of her of Henry as a child. Although Henry hadn\u2019t been nearly so handsome, Rozelle\u2019s little brother had once been as vulnerable and innocent as this youngster.\u00a0 She sighed.\u00a0 No one could describe him in those terms any longer.<\/p>\n

Silent as a mouse, she slipped away, locking the door behind her.\u00a0 Listening closely to the snores emanating from downstairs, she stole back to her room.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Henry savored the last morsel of his evening meal. Allowing the waiter to take his plate, he requested writing materials from the man while he contemplated the note from Ben Cartwright requesting a meeting. \u00a0Should he see Ben right away? Henry decided against it.\u00a0 Better to make the poor fool fret away a sleepless night. Taking the offered pen in hand, he invited Ben to meet him in his room in the morning.\u00a0 Sealing his response in the provided envelope, the judge directed it be delivered to Ben Cartwright post haste.<\/p>\n

By a strange fluke, it was in this very hotel room two weeks previously that Henry had seen Ezra Grady for the last time. \u00a0Henry could still picture the old sinner, sprawled in the upholstered chair smoking an expensive cigar.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m counting on you, Henry,\u201d Ezra told him.\u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t let me down like you did the first time.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Henry sighed, \u201cAs I told you then, it was impossible to make the child your ward when the grandfather was available.\u201d Grady professed to be an intelligent man; however, he\u2019d no inkling what trouble such a ruling would have caused Henry.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cSince the grandfather is thousands of miles away, and the brothers are dead, I know you can find your way clear to make the right decision.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t foresee any difficulty,\u201d Henry agreed. He cleared his throat. \u201cEzra, I believe I will require a bit of assistance regarding a loan from Mr. Forrest . . .\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll handle it when I return with Little Joe,\u201d Ezra assured him. \u201cHenry, things are about to change. Once I have my ward living with me, I don\u2019t intend to spend all my time cleaning up your messes.\u00a0 Little Joe is going to need my time and attention, and I intend to take good care of the lad.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cVery nice of you considering you\u2019re the reason he is without family,\u201d Henry snickered. The laughter died in Henry\u2019s throat at the sight of Ezra\u2019s fury.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you say that again! You watch your mouth, and I\u2019d better never catch you mocking him or treating him poorly. From now on, Little Joe is my boy, and I take care of what\u2019s mine!\u201d\u00a0 Grady left, slamming the door with enough force to rattle the tea cups. <\/em><\/p>\n

Well, that particular dream hadn\u2019t really worked out for Ezra, had it?\u00a0 Strange that such an ordinary youngster should excite similar emotions in men as different from each other as Grady and Cartwright.\u00a0 Henry supposed he could count his blessings that such was the case.<\/p>\n

All in all, the plan was proceeding admirably. This whole messy business would soon be over and done with.\u00a0 Henry decided he was entitled to a snifter of brandy after such a stressful day.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Joe woke suddenly, arms and legs doing battle with the thick quilts covering him. It was the same old nightmare.<\/em> He fought to control his breathing. Eyes closed, he reminded himself it was all just a dream.\u00a0 As the panic slowly subsided, he reached for the covers he\u2019d thrown aside. The room was so cold. The fire must have gone out, but if he wrapped up, he could probably go back to sleep. . .<\/p>\n

It came back to him in a rush\u2014being taken out of school; trying to escape, or at least leave a trail for Hoss to find; and getting the worst tanning he\u2019d ever had in his life. He\u2019d been shoved into this little room with nothing to eat or drink and left there without a word. None of it made any sense.\u00a0 Where was he?\u00a0 Where were his pa and brothers?<\/p>\n

This was just like his nightmare. Eyes wide in the dark, his trembling had nothing to do with the cold room.\u00a0 Little Joe was crying hard; why shouldn\u2019t he? No one was around to hear him. His family was gone, and here he was stuck inside this darn nightmare. He\u2019d only just gotten Pa back and losing him again was heartbreaking. All of it made him cry even harder, but after a little while, a slow burn at the doggone unfairness of the situation dried those tears right up.<\/p>\n

What had Adam said about his nightmares? His brother had told him that he needed to fight and not give up trying to get back to his family. It made Joe feel better to remember that advice. Pretty soon, he wasn\u2019t crying at all; he was smiling.<\/p>\n

Just you wait, Mr. Grant. You ain\u2019t seen nothin\u2019 yet.<\/em><\/p>\n

Chapter 4<\/strong><\/p>\n

Abigail\u2019s head throbbed. She\u2019d been up too late the previous night discussing the Cartwrights\u2019 troubles with her mother. How she\u2019d dreaded going home and having to explain the day\u2019s events! She hadn\u2019t given her mother any credit for common sense. In fact, she\u2019d been pleasantly surprised and relieved by her mother\u2019s reaction. Rather than indulging in a storm of tears, Margaret Jones had been calm as well as efficient in taking care of Abigail\u2019s hand.\u00a0 Naturally, she\u2019d been horrified by the event, but she\u2019d given Abigail sound advice on how to deal with its aftermath. Frankly, Abigail felt a little ashamed for ever doubting the woman.<\/p>\n

Her mother\u2019s advice sent Abigail searching for the judge. He hadn\u2019t been at the hotel, and she wasn\u2019t sure where else to look. When she spotted him leaving the telegraph office, her stomach flipped nervously.\u00a0 Lifting her skirts a bit, she scurried across the dusty street.<\/p>\n

The judge hadn\u2019t seen her coming, and he jumped a bit when she touched his arm. A telegram, clutched in a white-knuckled grip, was hastily shoved into his pocket.<\/p>\n

\u201cJudge,\u201d Abigail began, \u201cCould I just speak with you for a moment? About Little Joe Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

The little speech she\u2019d carefully prepared and rehearsed the previous night vanished at the sight of his face\u2014the normally pale complexion flushed dark and wide blue eyes narrowed. He waited for her to continue, tapping his foot impatiently. She felt ten kinds of a fool standing there wasting the important man\u2019s time.<\/p>\n

She tried again. \u201cI just wanted to say that I\u2019ve gotten to know Little Joe and his brothers.\u00a0 Adam and Hoss take wonderful care of him, and he is so very strongly attached to them. I can\u2019t imagine how he\u2019s dealing with the separation. I know you have questions about his father. I confess I don\u2019t know Mr. Ben Cartwright very well, but I feel certain he couldn\u2019t have such fine sons if he weren\u2019t a good man himself.\u201d<\/p>\n

The judge\u2019s huff of impatience told Abigail she was running out of time. Taking a deep breath, she plunged on.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, I\u2019m sure you\u2019re not aware\u2014you couldn\u2019t know\u2014but the new guardian, Mr. Grant, is harsh, frightening \u00a0. . . perhaps, even abusive.\u201d Strangely, the judge barely reacted to her description.<\/p>\n

\u201cGiven that Mr. Grant seems unaccustomed to children, and given that Joseph must be very upset by all of this . . . Mother and I hope you will allow us to care for the boy until the hearing.\u201d Abigail produced her most ingratiating smile and waited respectfully for his response.<\/p>\n

Judge Lindstrom briefly shut his eyes before casting his gaze upward, apparently praying for patience in the face of idiocy.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Jones, none of this is your concern.\u201d Stepping away, the judge turned on his heel and marched back to his hotel leaving her in humiliated silence to watch him elbow his way through a small group at the entrance.\u00a0 He disappeared before she could let him know his telegram had fluttered to the ground.<\/p>\n

She rescued the scrap of paper and considered her options. She could find the judge and return his property. She could take it inside and allow the desk clerk to handle the matter. Or she could throw the judge\u2019s telegram into the nearest horse trough. It was a sad commentary on her lack of Christian forgiveness that she was strongly inclined to the horse trough option. It was even a stronger commentary on her general sinfulness that she was first inclined to read the telegram before tossing it into the dirty water. The good angel whispering into one ear advised her to hand the telegram to the desk clerk that very instant.\u00a0 Sadly, the bad angel muttering in the other ear made the strongest impression.<\/p>\n

Abigail scanned the telegram furtively; after all, what would she say if the judge appeared?\u00a0 It took a moment before she understood the message.\u00a0 A second reading inspired misgivings. The final perusal solidified her suspicions.<\/p>\n

A quick glance around reassured her that the judge hadn\u2019t realized what he\u2019d lost. Chewing her lip thoughtfully, she wavered caught between competing responsibilities. The memory of Little Joe agreeing to leave with that vile man in order to spare her pain made the decision easier.<\/p>\n

School would have to wait.\u00a0 Abigail needed to find the Cartwrights.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Blasted, interfering women!<\/em><\/p>\n

Henry had been looking forward to concluding a profitable agreement with Ben Cartwright after breakfast. Grant would deliver the money to Forrest; Cartwright\u2019s brat would be returned.\u00a0 Of course, availing himself of Forrest\u2019s financial services in the future was out of the question; the man was clearly unstable.<\/p>\n

Really, everything had been going so well until Rozelle\u2019s ridiculous telegram had ruined his mood. Sighing, he splashed a spot of whiskey into his coffee cup. Sipping the much enhanced brew, he mulled over his mistakes. He had spoiled his sister by allowing her to live with him, share his luxurious home, and entertain her tedious friends. His lack of a firm hand had led Rozelle to believe she had the right to question him. Well, no longer! He would make it clear to his sister who was head of the household, or the woman would find herself on the street.\u00a0 The image of his sister\u2019s tears and remorse were so pleasant, Henry nearly missed hearing the knock at the door.\u00a0 Rising, he brushed down his vest and jacket before inviting the caller to enter.<\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright stepped inside, hat in hand. It was still a bit of a shock to see the man; the nearly white hair took some getting used to. Cartwright must have suffered a difficult ordeal.\u00a0 A pity\u2014apparently some men had no capacity for adversity.<\/p>\n

Without invitation, Cartwright seated himself at the table set for breakfast and stared pointedly at the bottle of spirits nestled among the serving dishes. Embarrassed, Henry removed the bottle, fumbling a bit with the damp glass before placing it on the sideboard.\u00a0 Withdrawing his silk handkerchief, he wiped the moisture from his fingertips before settling into his own chair.<\/p>\n

Drawing a deep breath, Henry leaned back in his chair, steepled his fingers beneath his chin, and affected a thoughtful gaze.\u00a0 Over the years, he\u2019d discovered most people were intimidated by his air of judicial authority.\u00a0 Cartwright, who had yet to say a word, did not seem to be among their number.<\/p>\n

The silence lingered.\u00a0 Henry cleared his throat.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou asked to meet with me,\u201d Henry said. Maddeningly, he heard his voice shake.<\/p>\n

The rancher turned his hat in his hand, smoothing the brim between his fingers.\u00a0 He placed the hat on the table and gave the judge his full attention.<\/p>\n

\u201cJudge, I\u2019m hoping you might clarify your issue with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Henry sipped his coffee before responding. \u201cI wonder if your sons have found the time to mention the difficulties your departure initiated, especially for poor Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

There, Henry saw it. A flash of pain in the expressive dark eyes. Cartwright had always been a ridiculously doting father; this would be simple. Henry continued. \u201cIt has been the talk of the town for years. The boy can\u2019t bear to be parted from his family. Separation makes Joseph seriously ill.\u00a0 So sad.\u201d Henry tsked sympathetically. Shooting a glance at Ben convinced him to abbreviate his intended speech.<\/p>\n

\u201cA gesture of remorse, perhaps, would indicate your recognition of the gravity of your behavior.\u00a0 It would facilitate a brisk settlement of this matter.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben studied him before answering, \u201cSay what you mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

Henry found his throat a bit dry at this moment of truth. \u201cTwenty thousand dollars, donated to a fund that I administer for widows and orphans, would be a sufficient gesture.\u201d Hearing the growled response, he hurried on, his words tumbling out. \u201cYou have the cash available, Ben. You would still have your land and your boys as well as a small reserve. I\u2019m hardly being unreasonable.\u201d<\/p>\n

Voice thick with sarcasm, Ben repeated, \u201cYou are hardly being unreasonable<\/em> at all. How do you figure on explaining this donation<\/em>, Henry?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRestitution, Ben, for wrongs perpetrated against your boys . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

Cartwright interrupted. Rising from his chair, he advanced on Henry and gripped the armrests, effectively pinning Henry into his seat.<\/p>\n

\u201cBelieve me, Henry. I am always<\/em> mindful of the wrongs perpetrated against my boys. I don\u2019t know what you remember about me; but I assure you, I don\u2019t take kindly to kidnapping and extortion.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cExtortion, Ben?\u00a0 Kidnapping? Don\u2019t be absurd. I acted completely within my authority. If you care to take your baseless accusations to the sheriff or territorial officials, be my guest!\u00a0 It will be the word of a respected judge against the desperate fabrications of an errant father. Meanwhile, your boy remains in the hands of a man who, it has been said, is unaccustomed to dealing with children.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben released his grip on Henry\u2019s chair. He drew himself up to his considerable height and towered over him.\u00a0 Henry somehow managed to remain steady and upright in his chair. However, he couldn\u2019t quite continue to look Ben in the eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cHenry, you would be wise to return Joseph immediately,\u201d Ben stated.<\/p>\n

For just a moment, Henry was sorely tempted to take that advice and call off the entire plan.\u00a0 However, the memory of Grant waiting for the money convinced him to stay in the game.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust settle with me, Ben. Then, we can put this whole nasty business behind us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cartwright stepped back and retrieved his hat from the table.\u00a0 Eyes cold with disgust, he faced Henry. \u201cJudge, you\u2019ve made a serious mistake.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben turned on his heel and stalked to the door.\u00a0 He paused with his hand on the knob when Henry spoke.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know where to find me when you\u2019re ready to make your donation.\u201d<\/p>\n

The slam echoed through the hotel corridor.<\/p>\n

It had all been a bit much for Henry.\u00a0 This sort of stress was bad for his nerves.\u00a0 It took a few minutes with his head down at the level of his knees before he felt some measure of calm restored.\u00a0\u00a0 The conversation hadn\u2019t gone quite as predicted after all.\u00a0 But, as his head cleared, Henry formulated a new plan.<\/p>\n

It seemed a little more pressure was in order. He\u2019d send a telegram to Grant suggesting a course of action. Ben would cooperate in the end; Henry was certain. When Cartwright brought him the money, the judge would simply disappear. Twenty thousand dollars would be a nice stake back east where he still had friends. Rozelle could keep the house; he\u2019d be happy to never see her again. Grant had the boy. Forrest could take the youngster in lieu of the debt. If Cartwright never saw the kid again . . . well, he should have taken the deal as soon as it was offered.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Wrapped in quilts and worry, Joe tracked the sound of Grant\u2019s footsteps. The sounds drifted upward through the floorboards along with the scent of breakfast. When he heard Grant stop in front of the door, Little Joe shrugged out of the quilts and stood. Swiping a sleeve across his runny nose, he was concentrating on breathing slow and easy to keep calm when the door opened. He forced himself not to squirm under Grant\u2019s mocking stare.<\/p>\n

\u201cThink you can act like you have a lick of sense?\u201d Grant asked.<\/p>\n

Joe thought about the question. He was hungry, thirsty, and had to use the outhouse like nobody\u2019s business.\u00a0 Might be a good idea to save the shenanigans for later<\/em>. \u00a0He nodded and followed Grant.<\/p>\n

The guy was reasonably civil (aside from standing a few feet away while Joe used the chamber pot\u2014the<\/em> jackass<\/em>), and something about that just felt all wrong. Grant then led Joe into some fancy front room on the ground floor. An impressive desk took up a lot of space in a room already crowded with furniture including a red settee reminding Joe of the piece in his own home and a small table set for breakfast.\u00a0 The lady he\u2019d briefly seen the night before was hovering around the table, pouring milk into a glass and piling a plate with flapjacks.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou hungry, kid?\u201d Grant asked.<\/p>\n

Grant strolled over and helped himself to a biscuit. Watching the guy stuff the buttered roll into his mouth and chew noisily made Joe\u2019s stomach twist a little. He shrugged nonchalantly so as to let Grant know he didn\u2019t need any favors. It didn\u2019t help that his stomach chose that moment to gurgle noisily.<\/p>\n

\u201cI could eat,\u201d Joe said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, boy, that\u2019s fine. Eat anything you want. If you behave yourself, you can stay down here and keep Miss Rozelle company,\u201d Grant smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just need you to do something for me first.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Apparently everyone in town had heard about the prior day\u2019s court proceedings. Townspeople who\u2019d greeted him heartily the day before hurried past this morning avoiding eye contact. Ben shrugged off the insults; his reputation mattered far less than Little Joe\u2019s safety. The short walk to Mrs. Carruthers\u2019 boarding house helped cool him off a bit.\u00a0 By the time he found Adam and Hoss in the front parlor, he was already considering options. To his surprise, the young schoolteacher was also present and in earnest conversation with his boys.\u00a0 All three turned to him expectantly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, what did he say, Pa?\u201d Hoss demanded. Ben hesitated to speak in front of Miss Jones, but Adam nodded slightly, and Ben gave in.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe judge requested a donation<\/em> of twenty thousand dollars to settle the matter,\u201d Ben said. Not one member of his audience seemed surprised\u2014which surprised Ben, just a little.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is making more sense all the time,\u201d Hoss muttered.\u00a0 At Ben\u2019s quizzical glance, Adam stepped in to explain.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Jones attempted to intercede on our behalf this morning.\u00a0 Their conversation was unpleasant.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam glanced at Miss Jones who rolled her eyes a bit at his polite description. \u201cAs he left, the judge dropped a telegram Miss Abigail has been kind enough to bring to us.\u201d Ben noticed Miss Abigail blush just a little. \u201cFor which we are very grateful.\u201d Adam smiled and touched her hand, which had the effect of deepening her blush considerably. He handed the telegram to his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cGrant has appeared with a boy. Stop. What is happening?\u00a0 Stop. Rozelle.\u201d Ben read the telegram aloud.\u00a0 \u201cWho is Rozelle?\u201d<\/p>\n

Miss Jones spoke for the first time. \u201cRozelle Lindstrom is the judge\u2019s sister. They live together in Carson City.\u00a0 Miss Rozelle is my mother\u2019s dearest friend. I\u2019ve been in their home many times. She adores her brother, but she doesn\u2019t always approve of his behavior.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHis behavior?\u201d Ben asked<\/p>\n

\u201cThey live lavishly, and the judge spends freely without regard to necessity or decorum.\u00a0 Mother and I always assumed they had a substantial inheritance. I\u2019m sorry to say, Mr. Cartwright, the judge is not a kind man. Moreover, I\u2019ve known him to sacrifice honesty to convenience,\u201d Miss Jones finished.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe good news, Pa,\u201d Adam interjected, \u201cis that now we know precisely where Little Joe is.\u00a0 Miss Abigail has even sketched the house for us showing all the windows, doors, and outbuildings.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, come dark, Adam and I can fetch him out of there slick as a whistle,\u201d Hoss suggested.<\/p>\n

If the young people expected Ben to argue that the law had to be considered, they were mistaken.\u00a0 Ben Cartwright had always been a law-abiding man; but he wasn\u2019t a fool to the notion. His morning meeting had revealed this particular judge\u2019s true nature. No one callous enough to wrest a child from his family and demand money for the child\u2019s return could be trusted. If the judge was hiding behind the law to commit a grave injustice, the law could look after itself.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me think.\u201d Ben dropped into an overstuffed parlor chair to mull over the implications of this new information.<\/p>\n

\u201cToo bad you had that business to attend to in Sacramento all those years ago,\u201d Hoss said.<\/p>\n

Ben was only half-listening, still turning over varying options and consequences in his mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was that, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019d you have to go to Sacramento all those years ago, anyway? You never did tell us,\u201d Hoss asked.<\/p>\n

Ben cast his mind back. He hadn\u2019t given the purpose of the trip much thought in years.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t have business in<\/em> Sacramento; I was returning through<\/em> Sacramento from Monterey,\u201d he replied.\u00a0 Ben paused, mouth slightly open, stunned by a realization.\u00a0 Could it be?<\/em> Partners?<\/em> \u00a0All those years ago?<\/em> \u00a0\u00a0<\/em>Ben stepped quickly to the table and scribbled a note.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam,\u201d commanded Ben, \u201cGo see Roy, and ask him to allow you to look through Ezra Grady\u2019s papers.\u00a0 Say nothing to him about your plans for tonight. I\u2019m hoping you\u2019ll find something we can use.\u201d\u00a0 Adam nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, get what you need for tonight, and let Hop Sing know what\u2019s been happening. Give him this note. We\u2019ll all meet back here for an early supper.\u201d Hoss murmured a \u201cyes, sir\u201d and rested a comforting hand on his father\u2019s back before heading out the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll help Adam look through Mr. Grady\u2019s papers,\u201d Miss Jones offered. \u201cMother is in charge at school today, and two people looking will allow a search to proceed more quickly.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben offered her a smile with his thanks.\u00a0 As Adam escorted Miss Jones outside, he paused to speak quietly with his father.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat will you be doing, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben turned to his oldest. \u201cHiram and I have some talking to do about the hearing tomorrow morning.\u00a0 Judge Lindstrom may know the law, but he doesn\u2019t know the Cartwrights.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

A firm hand on his back guided Little Joe into the chair behind the ornate desk. Paper, pen, and ink were laid out. Grant pulled a sheet of paper from the stack and shoved a pen into Joe\u2019s right hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere\u2019s your chance to write your daddy a little note,\u201d Grant said.<\/p>\n

Joe sat still for a minute. He still didn\u2019t have a clue why he was here anyway. Did this yahoo want him to write his own ransom note? Wouldn\u2019t hurt to stall a bit.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like something to eat first,\u201d he said as politely as a fellow could speak to a jackass.<\/p>\n

It sure looked like Grant was grinding his teeth. Good. Served him right.<\/p>\n

\u201cNote to Daddy, first. Then, breakfast.\u201d Grant bent over the back of his chair, his hand holding Joe\u2019s wrist. His brothers were always telling Joe to watch his mouth. Honestly, it was times like this when Joe just didn\u2019t see the point.<\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t that hungry,\u201d Joe said. He heard the lady squeak fearfully at his sass.<\/p>\n

He knew Grant\u2019s well of patience wasn\u2019t very deep, but he was danged if he\u2019d give in without a fight.\u00a0 Grant grabbed hold of Joe\u2019s hand so hard it felt like the bones would split straight through the skin and then forced Joe to dip the pen in the ink well. Grant\u2019s hand might as well have been the one holding the pen for the way he used Joe\u2019s to push the pen to the page.<\/p>\n

\u201cWrite this, brat. \u2018Dear Daddy, I miss you so much. I don\u2019t know how much longer I can hang on. . .\u201d<\/p>\n

Grant was guiding Joe\u2019s right hand in big, sloppy loops across the page. The galoot was so focused on the letter, he didn\u2019t even see Joe snake his left hand across the desk to grab the ink well. He also didn\u2019t see the ink coming until it splashed across his eyes and decorated his face.<\/p>\n

Joe took advantage of the man\u2019s surprise to push back hard, bouncing the chair into Grant\u2019s midsection.\u00a0 Scrambling out of the chair, Joe figured he had a few seconds to climb over the desk and hightail it out the door.\u00a0 He almost made it, too.\u00a0 But, Grant\u2019s reflexes were pretty good, and Joe found himself dragged back across the wide desktop, kicking and yelling for help. Papers, pen, and the blotter were thrown to the floor. The elegant desk lamp tipped over, and its painted globe broke in large shards in the confusion. The lady was screaming at Grant to stop; and before Joe realized it, he was back in that darn chair.<\/p>\n

Joe sat still, breathing hard.\u00a0 All of a sudden, he wasn\u2019t feeling so good. It would help if the lady would stop yelling. It took awhile before he understood what she was hollering about.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s bleeding badly, Grant! He needs a doctor,\u201d she shouted.<\/p>\n

Dang, I\u2019m bleeding? <\/em>The lady was wrapping a towel around Joe\u2019s right arm and squeezing. \u00a0He wished she wouldn\u2019t press so hard; it hurt like the dickens. Maybe it wasn\u2019t too bad a cut. Grant didn\u2019t seem worried. He wandered over to the mess on the floor and sorted through the pile of paper until he plucked out the sheet he wanted\u2014now smeared with blood.<\/p>\n

It made Joe\u2019s stomach a little sick to see blood on the letter, and he started to kind of ooze right out of the chair onto the floor. The lady tied that towel way too tight around his arm before catching him around the waist to help him over to the settee.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe needs a doctor. Whatever is going on, he\u2019s no good to you dead.\u201d The lady put his feet up on the settee and tucked an afghan around him. That was nice of her; he was starting to feel cold again.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make you a deal, Rozelle,\u201d Grant sounded amused.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ll let you fetch a doctor, and you take this letter to your brother in Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe watched her glare back at Grant. This lady sure was brave. He hated to cause her trouble. He was pretty sure he\u2019d be okay.\u00a0 She didn\u2019t have to go all the way to Virginia City because of him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine,\u201d Joe whispered.\u00a0 She looked at him then, and Joe saw she was about to cry.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a deal,\u201d she told Grant.<\/p>\n

Chapter 5<\/strong><\/p>\n

Paul Martin paused at the doorway of the judge\u2019s elegant parlor. The usually dignified Miss Lindstrom had run to his office and frantically insisted he accompany her back to the judge\u2019s home on the behalf of a badly injured child.\u00a0 However, he\u2019d assumed the lady was exaggerating the urgency of the situation.<\/p>\n

He hadn\u2019t been in the territory long enough to have been invited to the judge\u2019s home, but this sort of domestic chaos was a surprise. The floor was a trash heap of writing paraphernalia, and the desk itself was knocked askew from its customary position. The desk lamp was overturned, its globe in messy pieces across the inlaid top.\u00a0 Lamp oil pooled and dripped over the edge staining the Oriental carpet below.\u00a0 He could certainly imagine that someone had been injured here.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor, please!\u201d Miss Lindstrom was plucking at his sleeve, directing his attention to the settee.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t noticed the boy until that moment. As soon as he saw the white-faced, bloodied youngster, he forgot the mess completely.<\/p>\n

Kneeling beside the settee, he smoothed his hand over the clammy forehead.\u00a0 At his touch, the boy\u2019s eyes fluttered open\u2014glassy and unfocused. Miss Lindstrom was biting her knuckles to preserve her calm.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, young man,\u201d Paul spoke softly, and the child turned his face to look at him. \u201cIt looks like you\u2019ve had a bit of trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

A small nod.\u00a0 Sighing, the boy\u2019s eyes started to drift shut.<\/p>\n

\u201cI need you to stay awake for me,\u201d Paul said. He probed at the bloody cloth wrapped around the boy\u2019s upper arm.\u00a0 A deep cut was hidden beneath the linen; fortunately, the bleeding had slowed. He needed to roll the boy a bit to get a good look at the wound.\u00a0 But shifting him even slightly provoked pained whimpers.\u00a0 A good look at the boy\u2019s lower back showed him the reason.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Lindstrom, would you please bring me a basin and water?\u201d The lady leapt to take care of his request.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s your name?\u201d The doctor carefully removed the soiled towel and dropped it to the floor.\u00a0 He had to lean close to hear the response.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I promise you\u2019ll be feeling better soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paul was gratified to find a small table holding a basin and water placed beside him. He gestured for Miss Lindstrom to bring his bag while he made quick work of removing the boy\u2019s sleeve.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold his hand, Miss Lindstrom, talk to him,\u201d Paul instructed. She murmured soothingly as the doctor stitched up the gash and dressed the wound. \u00a0Finished, he rocked back on his heels to survey his patient. The cut would heal well; Paul was certain. Children were resilient, and this particular child was tough.\u00a0 Even so, a little sip of laudanum would help him rest. He watched Miss Lindstrom fuss over the boy, tuck him into the blanket, and stroke his forehead.<\/p>\n

A small sound behind him announced a newcomer.\u00a0 Paul rose and faced a large man, hair slicked back with pomade, face freshly scrubbed.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe all right?\u201d the man asked.\u00a0 A natural question but asked in tones of indifference rather than concern.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s lost a lot of blood for someone his size,\u201d Paul said.\u00a0 \u201cWhat happened?\u00a0 Are you his father?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe judge made me his temporary guardian. The kid had to be taken from his daddy,\u201d the man drawled.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you saying . . . the welts on him are from his father?\u201d\u00a0 Paul was dumbfounded.\u00a0 Something about this \u201cguardian\u201d was unsettling. If asked to guess, Paul would have pegged this surly man as responsible for Joe\u2019s injury.<\/p>\n

\u201cPoor little soul,\u201d the man continued, \u201cTouched in the head now.\u00a0 The boy\u2019s prone to fits and tantrums.\u00a0 Well, you see what he did before we could stop him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see,\u201d Paul said, but he was not sure that he did.\u00a0 The child appeared lucid and reasonable rather than \u2018touched in his head.\u2019\u00a0 \u201cLet him rest, and feed him up. I\u2019ll be back later to check on him.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man was shaking his head as he walked Paul to the front door, \u201cDon\u2019t bother, doc. Joseph here gets upset by strangers. I\u2019ll take good care of him.\u201d<\/p>\n

The door was closed in Paul\u2019s face before he could say another word. He wasn\u2019t sure what to do, but he was sure he didn\u2019t want to leave Joe with that man. Poor little soul, indeed<\/em>.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Henry was surrounded by imbeciles\u2014no one would disagree. He\u2019d expected trust and cooperation, and what had he received?\u00a0 Criticism and condemnation. Frankly, he wasn\u2019t in the mood to deal with Rozelle\u2019s misplaced loyalties. If she was more concerned for Ben Cartwright\u2019s son than for her own brother, then she was of no further use to Henry. He\u2019d taken the letter she\u2019d delivered on Grant\u2019s behalf and sent her back to Carson City.\u00a0 Good riddance.<\/p>\n

Grant should have realized such a letter would be useless. Another imbecile!<\/em> Henry expected a poignant little note that would move Cartwright to comply quickly with his demand. The blood-smeared page he\u2019d received communicated a level of violence Henry feared would move Cartwright directly toward the sheriff.\u00a0 He would rather not be asked to explain why the guardian he\u2019d selected might send such a letter.<\/p>\n

Where was Cartwright?\u00a0 Even without further pressure, he\u2019d expected the man to give in. Henry had made it easy for Ben to approach him. He\u2019d stayed at the hotel, eaten in the restaurant, and walked about town. For all of his trouble, he\u2019d received not even a glimpse of the so-called affectionate father.\u00a0 As the day drew to a close with no sign of the rancher, he\u2019d found himself drinking rather deeply of the fine brandy in his room. He paced from window to doorway, watching and listening for the man to appear.\u00a0 Despite the numbing effect of the brandy, Henry finally realized with terrified certainty that Cartwright intended to force his hand. Pushing his intoxicated wits to the limit, he could see no other option possible\u2014he had to go forward with the plan. With Grant ready to exact Forrest\u2019s penalty, he just had no choice. Henry drew a shaking breath, raising a glass to his absent rival.<\/p>\n

This is on your head, Ben Cartwright. \u00a0You shouldn\u2019t gamble with something you can\u2019t afford to lose.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Rozelle leaned wearily against the porch railing. As agreed, she\u2019d caught the stage to deliver that monstrous letter to her brother. In repayment of her trouble, she\u2019d been the target of Henry\u2019s biting, hateful language for several hideous minutes. He\u2019d insulted her intelligence and mocked her feelings.\u00a0 He\u2019d even questioned her loyalty! In times past, she\u2019d rationalized his cruelty. After all, he was an important man and couldn\u2019t be expected to dwell on such trivial matters as her feelings.<\/p>\n

This was different. All the wounds inflicted over the years finally merged to reveal an injury so devastating Rozelle could barely stand upright. Henry did not care about her. He felt no love, concern, or emotion aside from irritation. Admitting that fact was the hardest thing she\u2019d ever faced, and she wasn\u2019t sure she\u2019d survive understanding.<\/p>\n

She stood there clutching the porch post far too long.\u00a0 No one stopped to offer assistance or inquire as to her welfare.\u00a0 Every passerby simply . . . passed her by. \u00a0It hardly mattered.\u00a0 She deserved no better.\u00a0 She\u2019d devoted her life to a man completely unworthy of her love.<\/p>\n

When she felt the gentle touch, she nearly jumped out of her skin. Through tear-filled eyes, she recognized her best friend, Margaret. A squeeze around her shoulders and a small tug at her hand started her on a stumbling journey down the sidewalk.<\/p>\n

Margaret cooed sympathy into her ear, and Rozelle soaked up the words like desert sands swallow water. By the time they reached the Jones house, her friend had heard the worst of it. And Margaret promised it would be all right. Rozelle lacked the strength to argue.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

\u201cAbove all, be safe,\u201d Ben reminded his sons.<\/p>\n

Rescue had become even more urgent given the information from the judge\u2019s sister. Joe was seriously hurt, and his brothers were desperate to get him away from Grant. Ben wasn\u2019t altogether happy with the plan concocted, but they\u2019d run out of time and options. Despite having talked over the details repeatedly, Ben couldn\u2019t suppress reminding them again as they saddled up.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet him out of that house, quietly<\/em>,\u201d Ben emphasized. \u201cNo violence! Turn yourselves in to the Carson City sheriff. \u00a0He mustn\u2019t give Joe back to that man. Convince the sheriff to keep Joe with him in the jail. One of you stay with your brother. \u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry none, Pa,\u201d Hoss squeezed his father\u2019s hand, \u201cAdam and me got this part handled.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben swallowed hard. \u201cTell Joe, I\u2019m sorry. \u00a0Let him know I wanted to come for him . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll let him know,\u201d Hoss told him. \u201cYou gotta stay here and make sure the judge doesn\u2019t get away with what he\u2019s done.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam concurred. \u201cAbigail said she\u2019d come by Hiram\u2019s office later with dinner for you.\u201d\u00a0 Brow furrowed in concern, he added, \u201cTry to rest, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben muttered an agreement merely to keep the peace. Touching their hats in a final salute, the pair spurred their horses and cantered down the street.<\/p>\n

\u201cGodspeed,\u201d Ben whispered as his boys disappeared into the night.<\/p>\n

Chapter 6<\/strong><\/p>\n

A glimmer of light filtered through the dark water pointing the way up. Joe must have dived deep this time because it was taking an awful long time to reach the top. His arms and legs felt so heavy he thought maybe he\u2019d had enough swimming, and they\u2019d better call it a day and head on home. Finally, his head broke the surface of the lake. He\u2019d opened his eyes.<\/p>\n

He was definitely not at the lake. It took several long minutes before he remembered where he was. He scanned the room sleepily; just holding his eyes open was a chore. Not much light coming through the window\u2014was it nighttime already?\u00a0 Must be true, a lamp on a nearby table was lit and turned low. The fancy room was a big mess. Paper was strewn across the floor. The little dining table and chair were still in place, but all the food was gone. Too bad. Joe\u2019s stomach was as empty as it had ever been in his life.\u00a0 Worse, his throat was dry and raw. He couldn\u2019t remember the last time he\u2019d been given any water.\u00a0 Guess he was gonna have to find some water for himself.<\/p>\n

Pushing himself up on his elbows was a big mistake. He\u2019d forgotten that he\u2019d hurt his arm, but now the wound almost throbbed out loud. He eased back against the cushions and waited for the room to stop spinning.\u00a0 When he felt a little stronger, he used his good arm to grab the back of the settee and hauled himself up to sit. And he realized he wasn\u2019t alone.<\/p>\n

Petrified, he hardly dared breathe. Grant was a few feet away, slumped in an armchair, chin against his chest, snoring.\u00a0 Joe watched him warily. Was he asleep? Passed out drunk?\u00a0 Joe was betting on drunk based on the bottle by the guy\u2019s feet.\u00a0 Testing the waters, he shifted a little on the settee.\u00a0 Nothin\u2019.\u00a0 Grant didn\u2019t stir.<\/p>\n

Joe eased his feet to the floor and stood. Luckily, he\u2019d kept a hand on the settee, or the trip would have been over before it started. Breathing through the pain, he practiced standing up for a while.\u00a0 When he felt like he had the hang of it again, he thought he\u2019d try walking. Shuffling across the plush carpet, keeping his bad arm hugged to his side and his good arm out for balance, he managed to make it most of the way across the room before he had to stop and rest.\u00a0 Miraculously, Grant didn\u2019t wake up.\u00a0 Joe breathed a little prayer of thanks and a great big prayer for help.<\/p>\n

He slipped quietly out of the room and headed for the front door. Fumbling with the latch, he was certain the racket would have Grant on him any second. The door squeaked a little as it opened, but not too loudly, and Joe was outside.<\/p>\n

Okay.\u00a0 Now what? His only plan had been to get out. He hadn\u2019t thought ahead about where he should go.\u00a0 He held onto the iron fence trying to get his bearings. Would any of the neighbors help him, or would they just give him back to Grant?\u00a0 Joe wasn\u2019t in the mood to gamble.\u00a0 Down at the end of the street, he saw a sign board that gave him hope swinging in the breeze. \u00a0Could he make it?\u00a0 He had to try.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

The boy had been on Paul Martin\u2019s mind all day\u2014a little buzzing distraction while he attended to the minor illnesses and injuries trooping through his clinic. He couldn\u2019t quite get the event out of his mind. Odd, how this abused boy and his guardian were lodged in the judge\u2019s home. Miss Lindstrom had barely spoken to the boy\u2019s guardian, despite the man\u2019s apparent familiarity with her brother\u2019s home.<\/p>\n

Paul had meant to check on the youngster regardless of the guardian\u2019s<\/em> wishes. However, he\u2019d gotten busy, and the day was gone before he knew it. He could go now, he supposed.\u00a0 But his supper was long overdue, and the stew delivered from Grime\u2019s caf\u00e9 smelled too tempting to resist. Puttering around his small kitchen, laying out his meal, and starting a pot of coffee calmed him. Napkin in his lap, he\u2019d just picked up his spoon when he heard someone rap at the door.<\/p>\n

Naturally, the minute I sit down . . .<\/em> \u00a0\u00a0Sighing at the interruption, he abandoned the meal and headed to the door. Because he was a bit out of sorts, he tugged harder than necessary at the knob and opened the door abruptly spilling the boy he\u2019d just been thinking of into a pathetic little heap on his parlor floor.\u00a0 The so-called guardian was nowhere in sight.<\/p>\n

Gathering the youngster up, Paul carried him into the clinic. He quickly examined him\u2014low fever, pulse a bit fast as would be expected with the blood loss, minimal swelling on the arm. Joe came around quickly and gulped the water offered. The kid looked so grateful it made Paul\u2019s heart ache.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t give me back, please, don\u2019t give me back to him,\u201d Joe begged.<\/p>\n

\u201cHush, lie back and rest.\u201d Paul said, \u201cAre you hungry?\u201d<\/p>\n

They shared the stew while Joe shared his story. The sympathetic ache Paul had felt for Joe\u2019s plight shifted to outrage at the mistreatment the boy described. Paul agreed; returning Joe to that scoundrel was out of the question.\u00a0 Better to get the sheriff involved. His patient did not agree, arguing the sheriff might feel required to give him back to Mr. Grant. Nothing said to the contrary would change the boy\u2019s mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat would you have me do?\u201d asked Paul. If this boy was a handful when sick, he could imagine the energy it must take to supervise a healthy Joe.<\/p>\n

Perhaps that was the question Joe had been waiting to hear.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoc, would you please take me home?\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Grant was through playing with that boy. When he\u2019d opened his eyes to discover the kid wasn\u2019t on the settee anymore, he\u2019d wasted precious time looking through the house. Then he\u2019d wasted a bit more time taking out his aggravation on some of Henry\u2019s elegant gewgaws. If Henry managed to get out of this trouble with Forrest (which was looking more unlikely all the time), he\u2019d find his home had been redecorated in his absence.<\/p>\n

Strapping on his gun belt, Grant vowed that as soon as he caught up with the little brat, the kid would be hog-tied over a saddle while they rode out of town. Then he\u2019d find a particularly brutal ranch, mine, or saloon and chuck the kid for a few dollars. That is, if he didn\u2019t chuck him over a cliff first.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Despite making very good time, it took far too long to reach Carson City.\u00a0 Adam\u2019s nerves were stretched tighter than his guitar strings by the time they encountered the edge of town. The very idea of riding in with his eighteen-year-old brother to snatch Joe out of some outlaw\u2019s clutches was so fantastic Adam was having a hard time getting his mind around it.\u00a0 Nothing in the last seven years had prepared him for the night\u2019s enterprise. Aware of how vulnerable his brothers would be if something happened to him, Adam had always been careful to avoid trouble when possible, not chase after it. Given the circumstances, he knew they didn\u2019t have a choice; and he was determined to do whatever it took to rescue his brother.\u00a0 Still, a small part of him worried he wouldn\u2019t be up to doing what might be necessary.<\/p>\n

He and Hoss took a little time to reacquaint themselves with Carson City. They needed to get a feel for the place, and Adam wanted to scout the quickest route to the sheriff\u2019s office. Lamplight filtered through the shuttered windows of the jail. Good. Hopefully, they\u2019d arrive there with Joe soon. He didn\u2019t want to have to hunt for help. Tethering the horses nearby, they set out on foot.<\/p>\n

The judge\u2019s house wasn\u2019t very far from the jail. They skulked down the back alley, walking as softly as possible while clinging to the shadows.\u00a0 Miss Abigail\u2019s directions were impeccable; they found the address with no trouble. Her sketch of the house reassured them they were at the right spot.\u00a0 A peek into the carriage house revealed a contented mare in a stall and the fancy little rig clean and ready for its next outing.<\/p>\n

Hoss covered the east side of the house, while Adam checked out the west. No sign of life inside, and not a sound emanated from the windows he was careful to stay beneath. Worrisome.\u00a0 If Joe was awake, Adam couldn\u2019t imagine him quiet.\u00a0 As rehearsed, the brothers met at the back door. Inserting the key Miss Rozelle had given them, they crept into the gloomy kitchen. Peeking first around every doorway, they moved slowly through the house, stopping frequently to listen for any indication they\u2019d been detected.<\/p>\n

With every room they checked, Adam\u2019s anxiety increased. Violence scarred most of the house: tables were turned over, books and papers scattered, trinkets and baubles shattered and crushed. There was no sign of their missing brother.\u00a0 Finally, they reached the front parlor where Miss Rozelle said she\u2019d left Joe.<\/p>\n

The boy had been there all right. His sleeve, stained with blood, lay on the floor next to the settee. \u00a0Convinced they were alone in the house, Adam released an exasperated sigh.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s never where you expect him to be,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019s eyes opened wide. \u201cYou think he got away?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think so. And it made Grant mad enough to wreck the house,\u201d Adam continued, \u201cLook here, the fire\u2019s still burning, and there\u2019s a bottle of whiskey open.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think Joe\u2019s been gone too long.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s good, ain\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s good if we can find him before Grant does,\u201d Adam agreed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere would he go? To the sheriff, ya think?\u201d Hoss nervously kicked at the piles of documents scattered across the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hope so. Even if Joe didn\u2019t go there, I think it would be a good idea to talk to the sheriff,\u201d Adam said.\u00a0 They retreated through the back door, pausing in the alley to plan.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou go see about the sheriff.\u00a0 I\u2019ll take a look around the neighborhood,\u201d Adam said.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Finally, Paul managed to convince Joe that a journey to Virginia City in the middle of the night was neither practical nor sensible. The boy needed rest and proper care, and Paul intended to see he got it.\u00a0 Of course, there was another reason against venturing out into the night.\u00a0 Although he hadn\u2019t voiced his concerns, Paul was certain that Grant must be hunting for Joe.\u00a0It was only a matter of time before the ruffian arrived.\u00a0Paul was a doctor, not a gunfighter. How could he protect this child?<\/p>\n

\u201cI want to move you upstairs, Joe,\u201d Paul announced. \u201cYou\u2019ll be more comfortable.\u201d\u00a0And out of sight<\/em>.<\/p>\n

When Joe agreed without further argument, Paul was both pleased and a bit worried.\u00a0Placing a hand on the boy\u2019s forehead, he was reassured the fever hadn\u2019t increased.\u00a0The dark circles under Joe\u2019s eyes told the story; the kid was exhausted and in pain.<\/p>\n

Wrapping a gentle arm around Joe\u2019s waist, Paul helped him to his feet.\u00a0 They had just begun a slow journey to the stairs when Paul heard a telltale whisper of sound behind them.\u00a0 He closed his eyes briefly in frustration.\u00a0 Keeping his arm around Joe\u2019s now trembling shoulders, they turned to face the intruder.<\/p>\n

Grant stood just inside the open front door.\u00a0 His satin vest was rumpled, his slick hair was mussed, and he stunk of strong drink.\u00a0 None of that diminished the impression of looming violence he carried as obviously as the gun strapped to his side.\u00a0Smirking at Paul, the man winked meaningfully at Joe.<\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like you found something of mine, Doc.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Adam listened as Hoss\u2019s footsteps faded down the alley and into the distance. Wiping a tired hand across his face, he considered the situation. Where should he begin looking?\u00a0 It made sense that Joe would have escaped out the front door. Adam cautiously flanked the judge\u2019s home keeping an eye on the side yards of neighboring houses.\u00a0He stopped at the edge of the front garden and gave the landscape and street a critical eye.\u00a0Joe had done a good job earlier of leaving a trail for his family to follow.\u00a0That wouldn\u2019t have been the case this evening; Joe would do his best to elude Grant.<\/p>\n

As expected, he found no obvious indication of the direction his little brother had taken.\u00a0Joe was injured and scared.\u00a0If he hadn\u2019t tried to find the sheriff, what would he have done?\u00a0Bang on neighbors\u2019 doors to plead for help?\u00a0 Somehow, Adam doubted it.\u00a0Would he try to get as far away as possible and then hide?\u00a0 That sounded more likely.\u00a0It occurred to Adam that he had two problems:\u00a0 find Little Joe and avoid Grant.<\/p>\n

The street was deserted.\u00a0Light filtered through the windows of nearby homes.\u00a0Now and then, Adam could just make out the ordinary sounds of the occupants within\u2014muffled conversations and the clatter of dishes.<\/p>\n

Nothing seemed out of place. \u00a0If Joe had found sanctuary or hidden himself, wouldn\u2019t there be a ruckus?\u00a0 Perhaps dogs barking?\u00a0 Doors banging?\u00a0\u00a0 Agitated chatter?\u00a0Adam scanned further down the street.\u00a0 Light poured through an open front door. That looked as good a place to start as any. He hurried toward the house becoming more excited when he saw the doctor\u2019s sign swinging in the front yard.\u00a0 At the very least, he could speak to the man about Joe\u2019s injuries.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

The terrified look on the kid\u2019s face was priceless. It was almost<\/em> worth the trouble Grant had just been put through to finally see the boy cowed. Grant stepped further into the room, blinking against the lamplight and the whiskey-driven headache pounding behind his eyes. The doctor, sheltering the kid under his arm, was putting on a brave front. Didn\u2019t matter, a puny, soft-hearted doctor wouldn\u2019t be any trouble to handle.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry if you had to go to any trouble, Doc,\u201d Grant drawled. \u201cIt\u2019s like I told you earlier, this boy\u2019s touched in the head. I\u2019ll take him now.\u201d The doctor\u2019s arm tightened around Joe\u2019s shoulders.<\/p>\n

\u201cI believe this is a matter for the sheriff,\u201d Paul replied. He eased himself in front of the kid.<\/p>\n

Grant shook his head before spitting on the doctor\u2019s nice polished floor. He brushed his hand over the pistol belted at his waist. Both the doctor and the boy flinched at the gesture.<\/p>\n

\u201cGunfire will bring the sheriff . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

Grant stopped the doctor before he finished his sentence. \u201cI don\u2019t need to shoot<\/em> you to take care of you, doc. Shove the kid over, and we\u2019ll be on our way.\u201d<\/p>\n

A glimpse of color and movement was reflected in a stately mirror decorating the wall. A newcomer was at Grant\u2019s back. He looked over his shoulder at the dark-haired young man, pale-faced but steady, just inside the door. He heard the kid moan, \u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMove away from them,\u201d Adam commanded.<\/p>\n

In response, Grant wheeled slowly to face Adam directly, hand hovering above his pistol.<\/p>\n

\u201cNone of your concern, son,\u201d he drawled.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy brother is my concern,\u201d Adam replied. \u201cYou can\u2019t have him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grant considered his adversary.\u00a0He figured the young man to be in his early twenties-no more than that.\u00a0 Plain clothes, cheap gun\u2014there was nothing special about this fellow.\u00a0 It was clear he had guts, but in Grant\u2019s opinion that didn\u2019t count for much in these situations.\u00a0Grant had faced off against plenty of men in his day, and he was willing to bet this brother hadn\u2019t faced off against even one man.<\/p>\n

He looked young Cartwright over, head to toe. He\u2019d give him credit for standing his ground, but you could tell a lot about a man from his eyes. Adam Cartwright\u2019s heart was shining in his eyes: Grant saw brotherly love coupled to the kind of fear that could drop a man to the ground alongside enough anger to hold him up straight. There was something else in those eyes, and when Grant recognized it he knew he had the other man licked.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoy,\u201d Grant voice oozed condescension. \u201cI\u2019m guessing you ain\u2019t never fired that gun in anger. You don\u2019t have a clue what it takes to kill a man, to shoot him down and watch him bleed away his life in front of you. It\u2019s harder than you\u2019d think, or so I\u2019ve been told.\u201d He saw a muscle jump in Cartwright\u2019s throat. Grant smirked; he was hitting the mark all right.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re an innocent. You got a heart full of compassion. It\u2019s written all over you.\u201d Cartwright watched him keenly, not bothering to answer or get riled up. Interesting<\/em>. The fellow had the potential to become a dangerous man. Too bad for Cartwright he\u2019d never have a chance to realize that potential.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll bet you still believe in the goodness of your fellow man,\u201d Grant continued. \u201cI don\u2019t have that problem.\u201d<\/p>\n

Even with a half-bottle of whiskey coursing through his veins, Grant was fast with a gun. He drew and fired before Cartwright had a chance to blink. When he saw Cartwright stagger, he knew he\u2019d hit his target.<\/p>\n

So much noise! A loud crack surprised Grant and made him stumble and fall on his knees. The kid began bawling his head off, and the doctor was shouting for help. Surprisingly, they hurried around him not even bothering to glance his way. Stupid on their parts. Didn\u2019t they know he was in charge?<\/p>\n

\u201cShut up!\u201d Grant cried. Why weren\u2019t they listening? He swayed and tried to clear his head of the booze so he could grab the kid up and head out of town. Somehow that little motion put him flat on the floor. He closed his eyes to think . . . and when he opened them again, all he could see were swirling lights dancing in the center of a gathering dark. At least, it was getting quieter. He could hardly hear the ruckus at all . . .<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

It all happened so fast. One moment the wretch was taunting Adam; and the next moment, Adam felt a white hot streak of pain blaze through the fleshy part of his upper arm. The bullet went clean through, burying itself in the door behind him. The shock of the attack staggered him more than the pain of the injury, and through the haze of gun smoke Adam saw Grant grin in bleary-eyed triumph. Anger overrode shock, and Adam\u2019s answering bullet struck the brute in the chest, its exit from Grant\u2019s back breaking a mirror behind the man with a loud crack. The man fell first to his knees before slumping to the floor bleeding his life away in front of them.<\/p>\n

Joe hurled himself at Adam, sobbing into his shirt before Grant stopped twitching. Over the blood roaring in his ears, Adam heard the doctor step outside onto the porch, shouting for his neighbors to find the sheriff. It was getting hard to stand up with Joe pressed against him and the doctor poking at the wound in his arm. When Hoss and the Carson City sheriff burst inside, Adam was pretty sure he\u2019d never been so happy to see his brother in his life.<\/p>\n

It took a while for everyone to simmer down. There were stories to tell, injuries to tend, and brothers to embrace. Joe was desperate to understand why<\/em>. However, the doctor insisted details could wait for morning and maneuvered their youngest brother into an upstairs bedroom.<\/p>\n

He really needed some fresh air and a few minutes to himself. Leaving Hoss to stay with Joe, Adam took refuge on the Doc\u2019s front porch. Resting his wounded arm on the edge of the chair, Adam closed his eyes and did his best to think of nothing. Soon, he felt his middle brother\u2019s familiar hand on his shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow you feelin\u2019?\u201d Hoss asked softly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not quite sure,\u201d Adam answered.<\/p>\n

Hoss knew he wasn\u2019t referring to his injury. \u201cYou feelin\u2019 sorry you had to kill that yahoo?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot really,\u201d said Adam. \u201cHe shot first, and who knows what he would have done to Joe and Doc Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, what\u2019s eatin\u2019 at you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam sighed. \u201cI had to protect Joe. If you\u2019d only seen the kid\u2019s face when I stepped through the door! I was furious at that outlaw\u00a0 . . . but I was also afraid, Hoss! I was afraid for Joe and Doc. I was afraid Grant was going to kill me. Even drunk, he was fast. Thankfully, he was a bit too drunk to shoot straight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBein\u2019 afraid ain\u2019t nothin\u2019 to be ashamed of, brother. You ain\u2019t no gunfighter . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not ashamed. I don\u2019t want to become a gunfighter, either. But, I don\u2019t ever want to feel that way again\u2014so vulnerable, so out of my depth. He saw something in me that made him think he could take me down and tear our family apart. I can\u2019t let that happen again.\u201d<\/p>\n

He fell silent, and Hoss allowed the silence to stretch until Adam was ready to speak again.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss chuckled. \u201cDoin\u2019 fine, I\u2019d say. Arguin\u2019 with the doc about goin\u2019 home.\u00a0 Keeps sayin\u2019 he wants Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s not the only one,\u201d Adam muttered.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know you do, big brother. I do, too. I\u2019m gonna head back to Virginia City soon. You and Joe follow when you feel up to it. This commotion ain\u2019t quite over yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chapter 7<\/strong><\/p>\n

Henry felt a bit foolish, peering at his own courtroom through a crack in the door. Still, he needed to know what he was about to face. From the looks of things, it seemed the good citizens of Virginia City lacked for entertainment. The noisy courtroom was packed; every seat was taken, and men stood leaning against the wall. It wasn\u2019t difficult to spot the one man of interest.<\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright moved confidently through the crowd. Smartly dressed in a tan jacket overlaying a starched white shirt, the rancher shook hands and responded warmly to the many overtures he received.\u00a0 Apparently the man\u2019s native charm had overcome any doubts his neighbors might have harbored from the initial hearing.\u00a0 Henry could barely restrain a sneer; Cartwright should enjoy his popularity while it lasted.<\/p>\n

He would never have believed Cartwright would be so cold-hearted, loving money above his own flesh and blood!\u00a0 Everything should have already been over and done with\u2014the boy could have been home and all this unpleasantness behind them. Instead, Cartwright felt compelled to maintain his obstinacy despite its effect on the poor lad. If the rancher only knew Grant, he wouldn\u2019t be so nonchalant. Henry could even spare a bit of pity for Little Joe. How dreadful to have such a father!<\/p>\n

Of course from his own perspective, it was bit worrisome. Given the man\u2019s lack of deep affection for the boy, would Cartwright finally submit to paying? Henry had worried over the matter most of the night.\u00a0 Despite intermittent bouts of panic, he trusted capitulation was inevitable. To maintain both his reputation in the community and the necessary support of his grown sons, Ben Cartwright would have to pay for the return of his youngest.<\/p>\n

Henry smoothed the sleeves of his rumpled suit coat. If Rozelle had been any sort of sister, she would have brought him fresh clothes on the previous day.\u00a0 No matter, the trappings of judicial authority would be sufficient for the day\u2019s work.<\/p>\n

Steeling himself in anticipation of his upcoming ordeal, he fumbled a bit with the doorknob. \u00a0At his appearance, Sheriff Coffee\u2019s voice rang out through the room ordering everyone to rise for the Honorable Henry P. Lindstrom.\u00a0 The clamor subsided as he took his seat with customary dignity. Ben Cartwright slid into the seat next to his lawyer, Hiram Wood, all the while glaring at Henry. Stacks of papers and a quantity of ledgers adorned the table before the pair. The rancher\u2019s middle son, seated behind his father, gave him an encouraging touch to his shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe matter before the court today concerns a petition for restoring Joseph Francis Cartwright to his father\u2019s custody,\u201d announced Henry.<\/p>\n

Turning his attention to the opposing advocate\u2019s table, Henry sent a stern look at the young lawyer designated an hour previously to respond to Cartwright\u2019s petition. Lamont Turner had been reading law under Henry\u2019s supervision for nearly a year.\u00a0 The young man was affable, presentable, eager to please, and hopelessly na\u00efve, making him perfect for the morning\u2019s proceedings. Protests regarding lack of preparation were brushed aside. Henry required the semblance of neutrality and fairness rather than the substance. \u00a0If Turner performed as Henry hoped, the judge envisioned a productive relationship.<\/p>\n

Opening statements were brief and predictable. Thankfully, Turner kept his remarks to the areas of concern Henry had suggested: Cartwright\u2019s abandonment of his family and the resulting harm to the youngest son. The chap had a good voice. He presented the case well enough, all things considered.<\/p>\n

By the time Cartwright\u2019s attorney stood to make their case, Henry was itching with impatience. Wood could say what he liked. The outcome wasn\u2019t in doubt. Henry would turn down the petition thereby forcing Cartwright to approach him later with twenty thousand dollars to convince the judge to reverse his decision.<\/p>\n

Wood\u2019s first witness was Ben Cartwright. The man took the chair as if he hadn\u2019t already lost everything.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, a few days ago, you recounted the story of your abduction seven years ago . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cObjection, your Honor!\u00a0 The issue concerns Mr. Cartwright\u2019s fitness as a parent, not his penchant for adventures.\u201d\u00a0 Henry was pleased; Turner did have a talent for this after all.<\/p>\n

\u201cSustained. Mr. Wood, please get to the point. There is no need to rehash the tale.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, judge.\u00a0 If you could bear with me, please,\u201d Wood was perfectly calm and respectful.\u00a0 When Henry gestured for him to continue, the lawyer returned his attention to the witness.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was your earlier testimony that Nat Higdon was employed by Ezra Grady to get rid of you seven years ago in order to take control of your assets through your sons. In fact, Ezra Grady made a dying confession to that plot a few weeks ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

When Ben agreed with his lawyer\u2019s summary, Wood lifted a document from the table and offered it to the judge.<\/p>\n

\u201cSir, I have here a telegram from Sheriff McCray attesting to the confession.\u201d<\/p>\n

Henry grudgingly agreed to place the telegram in evidence while indicating to Wood to move the questioning along.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, why were you in Sacramento seven years ago?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI had journeyed to Monterey on the advice of a person I then considered trustworthy. That person sent me a note indicating that an heir to a particular Spanish grant had surfaced. If that were true, my title to a significant portion of the Ponderosa was in jeopardy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you discover in Monterrey?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo one I spoke to had heard anything of the sort. My trip had been for nothing. I was passing through Sacramento on the way home when I was attacked by Nat Higdon.\u201d Ben\u2019s deep voice echoed through the silent courtroom.\u00a0 Perspiration tickled Henry\u2019s forehead, and he brought forth his silk handkerchief to dab away the moisture.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, why didn\u2019t you mention this before?\u201d Wood probed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI had forgotten about the purpose of the trip until very recently when my son, Hoss, questioned me about it. Yesterday, I asked my friend, Hop Sing, to search through my belongings at home in hopes of finding the note.\u201d<\/p>\n

During Cartwright\u2019s remarks, Wood strolled back to the table before removing a single page from the stack.\u00a0 Henry held his breath as the lawyer scanned the document in his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see. The person who sent this letter was someone you knew. Someone you trusted? Someone many people trusted?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI had no reason to doubt him,\u2019\u201d Cartwright replied.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s mention of a note from a trustworthy source was causing Henry a bit of stomach distress. Why wasn\u2019t Turner objecting to this line of questioning?<\/p>\n

Surprisingly, Wood indicated he was finished questioning his witness. Henry released the breath he\u2019d been choking on. When Turner declined to question Cartwright further, stating that he saw no relevance in the information, Henry was nearly limp in relief.<\/p>\n

His relief was short lived. When Wood called Miss Jones to the stand, she regarded the judge with such loathing he was taken aback. What had he ever done to make Abigail Jones despise him?<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Jones, what did you do yesterday?\u201d Wood asked.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright and I went through Mr. Ezra Grady\u2019s ledgers and business documents,\u201d she replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you find?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Grady maintained a substantial record of his business dealings. There were numerous letters detailing his relationships, receipts for monies paid to him, and ledger entries with copious notes attached . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cObjection, your Honor!\u00a0 Mr. Grady is dead. How is this correspondence relevant to the question of Mr. Cartwright\u2019s abandonment of his family?\u201d Turner interrupted.<\/p>\n

Before Henry could gather his wits to reply, Wood prodded Miss Jones to continue.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you find any mention of Mr. Cartwright\u2019s trustworthy<\/em> friend in these records?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe found numerous mentions of this person, including Mr. Grady\u2019s payment of debts on this person\u2019s behalf to a Mr. Edgar Forrest as well as payments made directly to this individual in return for questionable services rendered to Mr. Grady himself.\u00a0 Ezra Grady kept very good records.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour Honor!\u201d Turner shouted over the increasing noise in the courtroom. \u201cI fail to see a connection.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease step down, Miss Jones,\u201d Henry directed.\u00a0 Wood did not object to the dismissal of his witness, but merely helped her to his seat.<\/p>\n

He was a fool. How had he failed to realize that Grady would have kept records? This certainly explained the stacks of documents on the petitioner\u2019s table. Why hadn\u2019t he confiscated everything from Grady\u2019s office as soon as he\u2019d heard about the scoundrel\u2019s death? And to think Cartwright had kept his note after all these years!<\/p>\n

Swallowing down the lump of panic, Henry directed the petitioner to approach the bench.<\/p>\n

Cartwright stood before him, so very smug and self-righteous. The man\u2019s insufferable lawyer stood by his side, along with Turner whose earlier confusion looked to be shifting to a growing suspicion.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll I have to do, Cartwright,\u201d Henry warned in low tones, \u201cis sign this order,\u201d tapping the document in front of him, \u201cand your boy will become Mr. Grant\u2019s ward.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Grant,\u201d Ben said, \u201cdied last night in a fair fight. Joseph is in the safekeeping of Dr. Paul Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grant was dead!!\u00a0 Under any other circumstance, Henry would have celebrated with champagne.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have nothing, nothing<\/em>, that cannot be explained away . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYour Honor,\u201d Wood interrupted, \u201cwe have someone who will testify to witnessing Mr. Grady and this person of interest conspiring in Mr. Cartwright\u2019s disappearance and the recent assaults on his sons.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a witness?\u201d This was impossible to believe. But Cartwright stood perfectly calm and utterly sure of himself. Wood nodded to the judge before directing his gaze out to the courtroom. As if called, a figure swathed in dark clothing rose from a seat in the gallery.\u00a0 Rozelle Lindstrom met her brother\u2019s eyes across the crowded room. Sorrowful acceptance and grim determination were written on her face, and Henry knew he had lost.<\/p>\n

Henry pressed his forehead against his clasped hands.\u00a0 There was no help for it but to salvage the situation as best he could.<\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright,\u201d he whispered when he found his voice, \u201cyou have convinced me you are indeed a fit parent. I will order your son be restored to your care.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJudge Lindstrom,\u201d Wood interjected, \u201cObviously, Mr. Cartwright\u2019s son must be restored in a public declaration. However, the matter of the conspiracy against Mr. Cartwright is not so easily disposed of.\u00a0 My client and his sons have been dealt a grievous injustice, and young Joseph, in particular, has been seriously harmed. The evidence against the conspirator must be turned over to the sheriff and territorial officials.\u201d<\/p>\n

The consequences were too horrible to contemplate. Henry saw it all: a humiliating arrest, the degradation of trial, the loss of his home and comforts, and finally, the terrifying prospect of prison. He would do anything to save himself from that fate.<\/p>\n

\u201cI would like to speak with Mr. Cartwright privately,\u201d he requested. Wood caught Turner\u2019s eye and nodded.\u00a0 Both lawyers stepped several paces away from the bench. Henry bowed his head in mute supplication.\u00a0 Cartwright had always been known for his mercy and compassion.\u00a0 Perhaps, even now, Henry could be forgiven.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sent me on that journey seven years ago,\u201d Ben said quietly, \u201cYou were in league with Grady.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEzra helped me in times of difficulty . . .\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, come now, let\u2019s be honest, Henry,\u201d Ben prodded. \u201cYou did him favors. You sold him your influence and knowledge so he could prey on the vulnerable. You made certain my sons could barely scrape by on your court-ordered allowance while I was gone.\u00a0 You would have given him my youngest son if Abel Stoddard hadn\u2019t arrived.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBen, please, I most humbly regret my actions,\u201d Henry appealed. \u201cThat scoundrel, Grady, had me under his thumb, and recent circumstances compelled me to make foolish decisions.\u00a0 Ben, I\u2019m begging you. I would never survive prison.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cartwright regarded him without a trace of pity in his expression.<\/p>\n

\u201cHenry, I won\u2019t press charges if certain conditions are met.\u201d Cartwright slid a document across the desk. The judge read the page quickly, eyes widening at the implication.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is intolerable! I would have nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs always, Henry, it is your choice. You can take responsibility for your actions with Sheriff Coffee, or you can accept my conditions.\u201d When Henry failed to respond, Ben turned to walk away.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait,\u201d Henry gasped, \u201cI accept your conditions.\u00a0 I just . . . I thought you were a merciful man.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cartwright favored the judge with a grim smile.\u00a0 \u201cConsider it restitution.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

A parade of emotions marched across the judge\u2019s face:\u00a0 terrified aggression, sniveling submission, and finally utter confusion. Had the wretch expected Ben to profit from the conditions outlined? There was no point in explaining. He could see Henry would never understand, believing as he did that every heart was as grasping and selfish as his own. \u00a0Returning to their respective seats, Ben and the lawyers allowed the defeated judge to gather his wits and words for one final courtroom speech.<\/p>\n

\u201cUpon careful consideration of the testimony and evidence presented today, I must conclude that it is in the best interests of the child, Joseph Francis Cartwright, to be restored immediately to his father\u2019s care and custody without reservation or restriction.\u201d\u00a0 Henry announced the decision with uncharacteristic directness.<\/p>\n

Excited chatter and muffled applause rippled through the courtroom. Several onlookers reached across the railing separating the petitioner from the audience to clap Ben on the back and utter congratulations.\u00a0 He was hardly aware of the gestures, so intent was he to hear the remainder of the judge\u2019s speech.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have dedicated many years of service to the people of this territory,\u201d Henry declared.\u00a0 Ben managed not to roll his eyes in disgust.<\/p>\n

\u201cRecently, a challenge has been presented I cannot ignore,\u201d Henry continued, darting a look at Ben.\u00a0 \u201cTherefore, so that I may pursue various opportunities afforded by friends and acquaintances of high standing back East, I am tendering my resignation as circuit judge effective immediately.\u201d Henry signed the documents in front of him with savage flourish.\u00a0 Both documents were pressed hurriedly into Mr. Turner\u2019s hands, and Henry P. Lindstrom, former circuit judge, fled the courtroom before his audience had time to react.<\/p>\n

After so many hours of fear for his youngest son and anger at the betrayal that had brought them all to this pass, Henry\u2019s abrupt departure left Ben a bit dizzy from the residual tension. The longing to have his sons safely home with him had never been stronger.<\/p>\n

Before he could speak his longing, Hoss was beside him with an arm around his shoulder.\u00a0 Miss Jones, her mother, and Miss Lindstrom crowded alongside.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou did it, Pa,\u201d Hoss exclaimed, \u201cYou took care of that galoot and got Little Joe back for us.\u201d Hoss\u2019s expressive face was bright with affection and pride.<\/p>\n

\u201cHush, son,\u201d warned Ben, mindful of Miss Lindstrom\u2019s feelings.<\/p>\n

Miss Lindstrom\u2019s gaze was pinned to the door through which Henry had escaped. \u201cHe never looked my way . . . he never even said, \u2018goodbye.\u2019\u201d Her whispered words brimmed with heartache.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Lindstrom?\u201d Everyone turned at Lamont Turner\u2019s interruption. Carefully avoiding Ben Cartwright\u2019s eyes, the young lawyer approached the lady.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Rozelle,\u201d Turner said, \u201cthe judge wanted you to have this since he\u2019ll be moving east.\u201d<\/p>\n

With trembling hands, Rozelle opened the document prepared by Hiram Wood and so recently signed by her brother.\u00a0 She smiled gratefully at Turner before giving her full attention back to Ben.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mr. Cartwright, Henry has given me the house! \u00a0He does care for me, just a little, after all.\u201d Rozelle practically threw herself at Ben and wept against his chest.<\/p>\n

Over her head, Ben mouthed, \u201cWell done!\u201d at the young lawyer who nodded and quietly slipped away.\u00a0 His shirt front was thoroughly wet with tears before Margaret Jones was able to coax Rozelle away from the rancher. The Jones ladies led the weeping woman from the courtroom, supporting her with loving attention. She would be well cared for, and Ben was finally free to follow his instincts.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I can\u2019t wait any longer. We need to go to your brothers.\u201d Ben grabbed at Hoss\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

Striding outside into the weak November sunshine, the men had just swung into their saddles when Hoss let out a loud whoop of joy and relief.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook over there, Pa! Little Joe persuaded that doctor to bring him home after all!\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

It was all Adam could do to prevent Joe from leaping off the rig into Pa\u2019s arms. He kept hold of the kid until Pa was reaching up for his youngest. With Adam\u2019s help, Joe slid smoothly to the ground and was immediately wrapped into a warm embrace.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood to see you, brother,\u201d Hoss told him.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s good to be back,\u201d Adam lifted an eyebrow. \u201cIs everything settled?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYep, Mr. Wood took all that stuff you and Miss Abigail found out about the judge and Grady over to the sheriff.\u00a0 I ain\u2019t sure how it\u2019ll all turn out.\u201d<\/p>\n

They stood together in companionable silence watching their father and little brother while waving away curious bystanders.<\/p>\n

Finally, Joe pushed back a little from his father\u2019s chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I did just what Adam told me to do! I hollered, and I fought, and I did everything I could do to find you all.\u201d Joe\u2019s face was ecstatic.<\/p>\n

Ben reached for his oldest son. Adam stepped forward to clasp his father\u2019s hand, gently resisting being pulled into a public embrace. His father\u2019s eyes met his with a silent question, \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Adam responded with a little nod and a confident wink that didn\u2019t fool his father one bit. They\u2019d talk privately later.<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Henry settled against the hard bench seat. No amount of shifting could make it comfortable, but there was no point in fussing about it. A stagecoach never afforded much in the way of luxury. Envisioning the long trip ahead of him trapped inside a drafty box bouncing along rutted roads, Henry tried to console himself. At the very least, the trip would provide plenty of time to contemplate the possible opportunities his exile might present.<\/p>\n

The ex-judge had always prided himself on his optimism.\u00a0 Surely, this exile (no, he wouldn\u2019t use that term again), this journey <\/em>would prove itself to be the beginning of a magnificent adventure.\u00a0 Free from the threat of Grant\u2019s violence as well as the millstone of family responsibility, Henry believed he\u2019d soon find himself once again in possession of a lucrative opportunity. Of course, it would have been easier if that madman hadn\u2019t insisted he leave the West altogether. He was rather fond of California, for instance. However, Cartwright had been quite clear, and Henry had been in no position to argue.<\/p>\n

According to the stage driver there would only be two other passengers sharing the coach for the first leg of the trip. Henry was satisfied he wouldn\u2019t be unduly crowded. Content with his own company, he rested his head against the seat back and closed his eyes. The door opened, and the coach dipped with the weight of the boarding passengers. Henry didn\u2019t bother acknowledging their presence; he\u2019d found this behavior most frequently assured his privacy.\u00a0 A shout from the driver\u2019s seat and the sound of a whip preceded their rapid departure from Virginia City.<\/p>\n

Shortly after their descent from town leveled out to the main road, Henry was aware of a match being struck followed by the scent of cigar smoke.\u00a0 How rude! \u00a0<\/em>Opening his eyes, he prepared to blister his fellow passenger\u2019s ears regarding stage coach courtesies.<\/p>\n

It took him a moment to recognize the sharply dressed businessman opposite. Beside him sat a preposterously large man whose scarred knuckles rested on his knees. When realization of the businessman\u2019s identity dawned, Henry\u2019s chest constricted painfully, and the cigar smoke was the least of the threats to his ability to breathe.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Henry,\u201d Edgar Forrest took a long draw from his cigar. \u201cI\u2019ve been meaning to talk to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

XXXXXXXXXX<\/p>\n

Joe had never been so happy to be home.\u00a0 His pa had kept a hand on his arm or shoulder practically since the minute they\u2019d been reunited, his brothers had hovered and fussed over him, and Hop Sing had fed him until he couldn\u2019t eat another bite. It all felt so comfortable and right that Joe wasn\u2019t sure he ever wanted to leave the Ponderosa again\u2014although Pa and Miss Jones might have something to say about that notion.<\/p>\n

Doc Martin had warned him that his injuries would ache, and he might feel a little feverish for a few days.\u00a0 Joe wasn\u2019t worried; he figured if he could deal with Grant, he could live with a sore arm and back.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t keep Pa from worrying, though. Joe found himself tucked into bed right after supper, and it looked like his pa wasn\u2019t planning on even leaving the room.\u00a0 Pa just pulled a chair close, turned the lamp light real low, and sat reading his Bible.<\/p>\n

Joe wanted to sit up and talk about everything that had happened.\u00a0 He wanted to make sure Pa knew he was all right, and that he shouldn\u2019t worry so much. He wanted to tell Pa and his brothers how very, very grateful he was to be a Cartwright and have a family that never, ever let a fella down. Joe wanted all those things and more, but his body just wouldn\u2019t cooperate.\u00a0 The longer he lay there, snuggled into his own bed with his pa nearby, the sleepier he felt. When he finally let go of trying to keep his eyes open, he felt a warm hand on his forehead brushing back his hair.<\/p>\n

\u201cHave sweet dreams, Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Joe smiled because he didn\u2019t have any doubts at all.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

THE END<\/p>\n

Author\u2019s note:\u00a0 In the United States, as early as 1692, local governments maintained the right to remove children from abusive parents.\u00a0 Child protective agencies were set up by states in the 1840s, and the courts were regarded as responsible for such decisions.\u00a0 The first criminal<\/strong> prosecution of an abusive parent occurred in 1874.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tags:\u00a0 Abel Stoddard,\u00a0Adam Cartwright,\u00a0Ben Cartwright,\u00a0Family,\u00a0Hop Sing,\u00a0Hoss Cartwright,\u00a0hostage,\u00a0Joe \/ Little Joe Cartwright<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/g><\/svg><\/i> \"Loading\"<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: Ezra Grady, is dead; but that doesn\u2019t mean the Cartwrights\u2019 troubles are over. Ezra Grady\u2019s silent partner-in-crime has yet another scheme in mind.\u00a0 (Warning:\u00a0\u00a0Referenced mistreatment of a child.)<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0\u00a0 T\u00a0 (22,190 words)<\/p>\n

In Absentia Series, links to stories within the series are included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":10664,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[7,23,41,30],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10663","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-drama","category-hurtcomfort","category-prequels","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-41-id","wpcat-30-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":3626,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/03\/Resitution-Small.jpg?fit=720%2C480&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":38023,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=38023","url_meta":{"origin":10663,"position":0},"title":"In Absentia #5 – Homesick (by Belle)","author":"Belle","date":"December 25, 2021","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Hop Sing\u2019s choice to stay with the Cartwrights is challenged by his first winter at the Ponderosa Written for day 12 of the 2021 Advent Calendar. 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