{"id":1209,"date":"2004-03-03T00:22:26","date_gmt":"2004-03-03T05:22:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1209"},"modified":"2026-07-29T13:55:06","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T17:55:06","slug":"the-first-duty","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=1209","title":{"rendered":"The First Duty (by Rona)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary: <\/strong>A chance meeting with an army officer sends Joe on a desperate mission to help save a soldier\u2019s life. <\/span><\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0 (10,120 words)
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Disclaimer:<\/strong>\u00a0All publicly recognizable characters and settings are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/a>The First Duty\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Meandering slowly home on what had started out as a sunny summer afternoon, Joe Cartwright glanced up at the clouds filling the skies. Although he knew he ought to hurry his steps so that he wouldn\u2019t get caught in the downpour, he couldn\u2019t summon the energy to do so. It had been a long month of haying and everyone was physically exhausted. Joe had had to go to town that Friday because he\u2019d fallen from the top of the wagon and knocked himself out. Hoss, who had been driving the wagon, was frantic with worry and mortally embarrassed. The horses had suddenly drawn forward and Joe, who was trampling down hay at the time, had lost his balance at the unexpected movement and toppled to the ground. He was out only for a few moments, but Ben had insisted that he go and get checked out, especially when he saw the swelling building in Joe\u2019s right wrist. Hoss had escorted Joe into the doctor\u2019s and then got back to help at the haying.<\/span><\/p>\n

Now, riding home a few hours later, Joe was tired. His wrist was sprained, not broken, and he consoled himself that at least it wasn\u2019t his left wrist he\u2019d damaged, since he was left handed. Paul Martin, the town doctor, had kept Joe for observation until he was satisfied that Joe wasn\u2019t concussed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGo home, eat something and go to bed,\u201d Paul ordered him. \u201cAnd if you end up driving the wagon tomorrow, don\u2019t do this to Hoss as revenge, all right?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Joe agreed, mock reluctantly, smiling. He had mounted slowly and headed for home. The sun had still been shining then.<\/span><\/p>\n

Now, the sky was overcast and grey and a cool wind suddenly blew against Joe\u2019s face and he found the motivation he needed to speed Cochise\u2019s steps. It looked like there was a thunderstorm on the way. Joe hated to ride in the rain, but he really hated to ride in thunderstorms.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he rounded a large boulder onto a long straight part of the road, he saw another horse and rider up ahead. Joe could see at once that the horse was in trouble. He urged Cochise into a gallop and saw the rider glance over his shoulder and urge his horse to a quicker pace. The poor beast took only one step before it tumbled to the ground, spilling the rider from his saddle.<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowing his pace, Joe arrived as the rider managed to get onto his hands and knees. Joe slid from his saddle and hurried over to the rider. \u201cAre you all right?\u201d Joe asked, anxiously and was shocked to find himself face to face with an Army revolver!<\/span><\/p>\n

*************************<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBack off!\u201d the soldier snarled and Joe did as he was told, raising his hands slightly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI only want to help,\u201d Joe told him. He was puzzled when the soldier glanced quickly all around, as though seeking for others.<\/span><\/p>\n

Seemingly partially reassured, the soldier climbed to his feet, his revolver still aimed at Joe\u2019s stomach. \u201cAll right, who are you, boy and what are you doing here?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Curbing his annoyance, Joe replied, \u201cMy name is Joe Cartwright and you\u2019re on the Ponderosa ranch, which belongs to my father Ben Cartwright.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you alone?\u201d the man asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Joe replied, wearily. His wrist was starting to throb. He felt a sudden twinge of anxiety at admitting he was alone. Perhaps he should\u2019ve said someone was coming along behind him, or he was meeting someone further on. \u201cI\u2019m expected home for supper,\u201d he added.<\/span><\/p>\n

Abruptly, the soldier stepped back.\u00a0 \u201cAll right, boy, get out of here,\u201d he ordered. \u201cForget you ever saw me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Lowering his arms, Joe frowned. \u201cBut I can\u2019t leave you here like this,\u201d he protested. \u201cYour horse isn\u2019t going anywhere else, and you sure aren\u2019t getting mine!\u201d The soldier\u2019s bay gelding was making horrid grunting noises and Joe knew that it would be kindest to put the poor beast out of its misery.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about me,\u201d the other retorted. He took another step back and staggered. As he caught his balance, Joe saw the blood stain on the shoulder of the greatcoat. Instinctively, he stepped forward and put his hand out to support the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

From the corner of his eye, Joe saw the revolver swinging towards him and ducked. The butt of the gun skidded up his cheek and set Joe\u2019s head to ringing. He felt blood trickling down his face as he fell to the ground and grappled for his own gun.<\/span><\/p>\n

But he didn\u2019t need it. The soldier\u2019s strength and stamina suddenly gave out on him and he collapsed in a heap beside Joe. His revolver fell from lax fingers. Cautiously, Joe sat up and picked up the revolver. The soldier was out for the count. Rising shakily, Joe took a firm hold of Cochise\u2019s rein before he put the bay gelding out of its misery. Then, sighing, Joe roused the soldier with water and helped him onto Cochise. As Joe began the slow trek home leading his horse, the first cold drops of rain fell.<\/span><\/p>\n

**********************<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a very bedraggled cavalcade that arrived in the Ponderosa yard almost two hours later. Joe was footsore and weary, with water dripping from the brim of his hat. The lieutenant that Joe had met slumped on Cochise\u2019s neck and only the pinto seemed to be in good spirits. He walked along with his nose almost touching Joe\u2019s shoulder and the pinto\u2019s warm breath on the back of his neck was comforting to Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leading his horse right up to the edge of the porch, Joe went round to the soldier. \u201cWe\u2019re here,\u201d he said, and reached up to help the man down. As he did so, the house door opened and Ben came out.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, where have you\u2026?\u201d Ben\u2019s voice trailed off as he realized that Joe was not alone. \u201cWho\u2019s this?\u201d he asked, hurrying over to help Joe with the man.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLieutenant Bill Patterson of the United States Cavalry,\u201d the man slurred and slid out of Joe\u2019s grasp in a dead faint.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere you\u2019d find him?\u201d Ben asked. He looked at Joe closely for the first time and saw the graze on his son\u2019s face. \u201cWhat happened to your face?\u201d he demanded. \u201cThat didn\u2019t happen when you fell out of the wagon, did it? What did Paul say?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOne question at a time, Pa,\u201d Joe pleaded. \u201cPaul said I\u2019m fine apart from this wrist, which is sprained.\u201d Joe held up the offending appendage. \u201cI met the lieutenant on the road. He\u2019d ridden his horse almost to death \u2013 I had to put it down, Pa \u2013 and he hit me when he thought I was going to\u2026 I don\u2019t know what he thought I was going to do. Attack him probably. He collapsed and I brought him home. What else could I do?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou go inside and dry off,\u201d Ben ordered. By now, Adam and Hoss were at the door, watching the goings on with interest. \u201cAdam, help me get this fellow inside. Hoss, get someone to put up Joe\u2019s horse please.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The clean dry clothes that Joe changed into seemed like the height of luxury to the chilled young man. When he went downstairs, Hop Sing had prepared him something to eat and Joe tucked in with relish. Hoss came and sat at the table with Joe, drinking another cup of coffee. Joe was just finishing a pie of apple pie when Ben and Adam came downstairs again. \u201cHow is he?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExhausted,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cHe\u2019d been shot fairly recently, but the bullet had gone straight through his arm. There had been a lot of bleeding, but it\u2019s stopped now. He\u2019s asleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI wonder what he\u2019s doing out here alone,\u201d Adam mused.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can ask him when he wakes up,\u201d Joe observed. He cupped his hands around his coffee cup, but he was much warmer now. \u201cHe wasn\u2019t very keen to tell me anything while we were coming back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI sent someone to get his gear off\u2019n the dead horse,\u201d Hoss told them. \u201cI reckoned he\u2019d need it fer when he\u2019s fit to travel on.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood thinking, son,\u201d Ben praised him. \u201cHowever, I don\u2019t think he\u2019ll be going anywhere much in the next few days.\u201d He glanced at Joe, who had suddenly yawned convulsively. Ben swallowed an answering yawn before it could escape. \u201cI think you ought to go to bed, Joe,\u201d he suggested. \u201cYou\u2019ve had an interesting day.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think I will,\u201d Joe agreed. He rose stiffly to his feel. \u201cG\u2019night, all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNight Joe,\u201d they chorused and watched him walk upstairs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think I might copy him,\u201d Adam announced. \u201cI\u2019m pretty bushed, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cD\u2019ya want me ta sit up wi\u2019 that soldier fella?\u201d Hoss offered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, thanks all the same,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cI don\u2019t think he\u2019ll move before morning.\u201d He rose. \u201cI\u2019m going to bed, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAn\u2019 me,\u201d Hoss agreed. They mounted the stairs in complete amity.<\/span><\/p>\n

******************<\/span><\/p>\n

The next morning saw all the Cartwrights at breakfast shortly after dawn broke. Joe\u2019s wrist was still a bit sore and the graze on his face now had multi-colored bruising to highlight it, but he felt fine. \u201cHow\u2019s our guest?\u201d he asked as he slid into his seat, last as usual.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStill asleep when I looked in,\u201d Ben replied. \u201cBut he didn\u2019t have any fever and he had a little more color in his face than he had last night.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that\u2019s not difficult,\u201d Adam commented. \u201cI\u2019ve seen corpses with more color than the lieutenant had last night!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The rain from the previous night had stopped, but haying would be held up while the hay dried once more. They couldn\u2019t bale or stack wet hay, as it would just go moldy and be no use to them. However, there was no shortage of other chores that could be done on the ranch. Ben began to detail them. \u201cHoss, we\u2019ve a couple of horses that need shod. Could you check our horses before we go out and replace any shoes that need it please?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure,\u201d Hoss grunted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, could you go up to the logging camp and see how the thinning is coming on the south ridge? I meant to do that yesterday, but forgot.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Adam agreed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I want you to stay here and keep an eye on our guest,\u201d Ben went on.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d Joe straightened as though stung. \u201cWhy me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you found him,\u201d Ben pointed out. \u201cAnd you had a nasty fall yesterday. Besides, you\u2019re about the only person he\u2019s spoken to and he might open up and tell you where he\u2019s headed and why. Make it clear to him that we\u2019re quite happy to supply him with another horse and offer whatever assistance we can to him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Joe capitulated. What Ben said made sense, even though Joe didn\u2019t want to be stuck in the house all day. However, he chided himself, he should\u2019ve expected that, given his minor injuries. Ben couldn\u2019t help clucking over his sons.<\/span><\/p>\n

***********************<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning!\u201d Joe exclaimed cheerfully when he entered the guest bedroom a short time later.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMorning,\u201d Bill Patterson replied and tried a tentative smile. \u201cWhere exactly am I?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, Joe sat down beside the bed. \u201cYou\u2019re at my home, the Ponderosa ranch. Do you remember what happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSome of it,\u201d admitted Patterson. \u201cI remember hitting you.\u201d His gaze slid down the graze on Joe\u2019s cheek. \u201cSorry about that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shrugged. \u201cI\u2019m Joe Cartwright,\u201d he offered. \u201cI think I did tell you my name yesterday, but I\u2019m not sure you got it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLieutenant Bill Patterson of the United States Cavalry,\u201d Patterson offered and Joe forbore to tell him that he\u2019d introduced himself the night before. The two solemnly shook hands. Joe then found out if his guest was hungry, which he was, and organized something to eat.<\/span><\/p>\n

While Patterson ate, Joe commented, \u201cYou\u2019re looking better.\u201d The previous night, in the wet, Joe had thought the soldier was about Adam\u2019s age. Now, rested and clean, with more color in his face, Joe guessed that Patterson was closer to his own age.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI feel better, too,\u201d Patterson agreed. \u201cThank you for helping me.\u201d He was more broadly built than Joe and had short straight blonde hair. His blue eyes held a twinkle, as though he was generally good-humored.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo,\u201d Joe asked, \u201cwhere are you headed?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Cocking Joe a glance, Patterson deliberately took his time chewing that mouthful to give himself time to think before he answered. \u201cFort Churchill,\u201d he admitted finally.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a little off track,\u201d Joe told him, smiling. He was completely taken aback by the young soldier\u2019s reaction.<\/span><\/p>\n

The color drained out of his face and a look of alarm crossed it. He sat up abruptly and would have spilled the contents of the tray all over the bed if Joe\u2019s quick reactions hadn\u2019t caught it just in time. \u201cOff track?\u201d he echoed, the dismay clear in his tones. \u201cHow off track?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTake it easy,\u201d Joe urged. \u201cYou\u2019re not that far off. Do you have a deadline to meet?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Again there was the hesitation, as though Patterson couldn\u2019t decide if he was going to tell Joe the truth or not. \u201cKind of,\u201d he hedged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, I\u2019m not trying to pry here,\u201d Joe told him. \u201cI was just asking. We\u2019ll be happy to give you a horse and point you in the right direction. I could even take you there if it would help. Your business is just that \u2013 yours.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The young man ducked his head. \u201cI\u2019m sorry, I don\u2019t mean to seem ungrateful,\u201d he replied. \u201cI appreciate everything you\u2019re doing for me. It\u2019s just\u2026\u201d He allowed his voice to trail off. \u201cI guess I\u2019d better tell you the story. They might track me this far.\u201d He ran a hand through his hair. \u201cI\u2019m stationed at Fort Lowell.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know where it is,\u201d Joe confirmed. \u201cNear Tucson.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d Patterson nodded. \u201cA few months ago, we got a new commanding officer, Colonel Jackson. He came with the reputation of being a hard taskmaster, and so he is. But he\u2019s also mad.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMad?\u201d Joe echoed. \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Swallowing, Patterson looked nervous. \u201cHe and the captain of my troop disagreed on the punishment for one of the men who was caught sleeping on duty. The colonel won, of course, but he flogged the man so hard he died. The captain was going to complain to the commander-in-chief when he next came to visit, but he isn\u2019t due for another month. The captain told the colonel that he was going to do this. A few days later we were out on exercises and the captain was killed by a bullet the colonel fired. \u201c<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure about this?\u201d Joe asked hoarsely.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes,\u201d came the bleak response. \u201cMajor Markham decided that we couldn\u2019t wait for the CIC\u2019s visit and wrote a letter for me to take to him at Fort Churchill. But somehow, word must have got out, because I was being followed by the colonel and some of his men. That\u2019s how I got shot. I managed to escape them, but if I\u2019ve gone wrong, I\u2019ve given them the chance to catch up with me, and maybe get to Churchill before me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure the CIC will believe your major?\u201d Joe asked, having had a couple of encounters with the army that he\u2019d sooner forget.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yes, Mr. Cartwright, I\u2019m quite sure he will,\u201d Patterson assured Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy name\u2019s Joe, not Mr. Cartwright,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cWhy are you so sure?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause the major is the younger brother of the CIC,\u201d Patterson replied. He looked at Joe\u2019s astonished face with interest. \u201cAnd my name\u2019s Bill,\u201d he added.<\/span><\/p>\n

***************************<\/span><\/p>\n

Within the hour, Joe was mounted and riding out to find his father. It was clearly imperative that Bill get to Fort Churchill as soon as possible. What was also clear was that the young soldier was struggling with weakness. Joe was determined that he shouldn\u2019t go on alone, especially as he wasn\u2019t sure where it was he was headed. Of all his sons, Ben could most easily spare Joe right then, thanks to his sprained wrist. Two days should see them reach Fort Churchill with the vital message.<\/span><\/p>\n

But Ben wasn\u2019t as easy to coax round as all that. Joe argued as persuasively as he knew how, but Ben insisted on coming back to the house to hear the story for himself and judge the young man\u2019s truthfulness. Joe fretted under the delay, already infected with Bill\u2019s worries.<\/span><\/p>\n

With Joe fidgeting on the couch, Ben thoroughly questioned the young soldier, who went as far as to show Ben the sealed envelope that contained the vital message. The embossed envelope went a long way to convincing Ben. \u201cAll right,\u201d he sighed. \u201cI believe your story. It\u2019s barely noon, so you can get underway after you\u2019ve eaten. Joe, can you find a horse for the lieutenant?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir,\u201d Joe replied and exited the house smartly. He chose a sturdy brown gelding and swiftly put on the lieutenant\u2019s gear before checking his own was ready. He wasn\u2019t surprised to find Ben following him into the barn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing is preparing you something to eat and some food to take with you,\u201d Ben told him. He stopped close beside Joe and put a hand on his son\u2019s horse. \u201cJoe, are you sure you\u2019re up to going? This could be a hard trip if you meet up with those soldiers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know that, Pa,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cI am up to it, I promise and I\u2019ll be careful. But Bill can\u2019t go alone; he\u2019d get lost again, or pass out maybe, and we can\u2019t wait until either Adam or Hoss come back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you\u2019re right,\u201d Ben smiled, although he felt a twinge of anxiety. \u201cGo and eat, son.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

With a heavy heart, Ben followed Joe back into the house.<\/span><\/p>\n

*************************<\/span><\/p>\n

By mid-afternoon, they had covered about eight miles. Joe found that he was much more experienced at pacing the horses than Bill and they had to rest often to allow Bill to catch his breath. About 7.30 that evening, they arrived at the place that Joe had mentally ear-marked for their camp that night. Seeing that the soldier was exhausted, Joe took on the camp chores, swiftly tending to the horses and building a fire. After that, he replenished their canteens before he made a start on supper.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry I can\u2019t be more help,\u201d Bill apologized. \u201cI\u2019m shattered.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry about it,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cI\u2019ve been shot a time or two myself and I know how it makes you feel.\u201d Settling back on his heels while the beans cooked, Joe said, \u201cHow come you\u2019re a lieutenant so young, Bill? If you don\u2019t mind me asking, that is.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t mind,\u201d Bill replied, smiling. \u201cWell, the truth is, Joe, it\u2019s mostly because I can read and write. A lot of the men in my company aren\u2019t educated at all. Plus, I come from a military background. My father and grandfathers were all soldiers. I like it, mostly.\u201d He nodded at Joe. \u201cWhat about you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Smiling, Joe told his story. Before long, they had told each other about their siblings \u2013 three sisters for Bill \u2013 and were fast becoming friends. Gradually, the talk slowed and Bill began to yawn. \u201cGo to sleep,\u201d Joe urged him. \u201cI won\u2019t be long before I join you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about a watch?\u201d Bill asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Reminded of their desperate mission once more, Joe frowned. \u201cI\u2019ll stand first watch,\u201d he decided. \u201cI\u2019ll waken you later. I\u2019ll douse the fire and there won\u2019t be anything to give us away.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can easily\u2026\u201d Bill began.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you can\u2019t,\u201d Joe contradicted him. \u201cYou\u2019re still weak from blood loss. I\u2019ll stand watch and waken you after you\u2019ve had some sleep. You need it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I heard your Pa say you\u2019d been knocked out yesterday,\u201d Bill objected. \u201cAnd I hit you, too.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPa fusses,\u201d Joe admitted with a smile that told Bill that he didn\u2019t really mind the fussing. \u201cAnd I\u2019ve got the Cartwright hard head. Ask either of my brothers and they\u2019ll tell you the same.\u201d He pointed to Bill\u2019s bedroll. \u201cNow, sleep! That\u2019s an order!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Saluting smartly, Bill smiled and went to roll himself into his blankets. \u201cSometimes,\u201d he told Joe, \u201cthe first duty of a soldier is obedience. Sometimes its doing the thing you think is right. And sometimes they coincide!\u201d He laughed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood night,\u201d Joe laughed back and kicked dirt onto the fire. It died away and Joe sat and stared into the darkness until his night vision developed. It was going to be a long night.<\/span><\/p>\n

**********************<\/span><\/p>\n

As dawn broke, Bill woke Joe. He had a small fire going and was heating some coffee, which Joe was grateful for. He had finally woken Bill about 2am and it was now a little before 6am. Joe wondered how on earth he would last the day on four hours sleep, but he had done it before, and he supposed he would do it again. They didn\u2019t linger over breakfast. Before long, they were on their way again.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was a definite improvement in Bill\u2019s condition, but Joe still didn\u2019t push him. He wanted the soldier to get to his destination in as good shape as was possible. Joe estimated to himself that if they kept up their current pace, they would reach Fort Churchill the next morning. If they pushed, they would reach it that night, but for Bill\u2019s sake, Joe decided not to push things.<\/span><\/p>\n

But his pleasant musings were interrupted. Bill had been looking back over his shoulder steadily for the last half hour and Joe glanced at him. \u201cSee anything?\u201d he asked, hoping that the answer was no. But he himself had looked back a couple of times and was sure they were being followed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d Bill replied, gloomily. \u201cThey\u2019ve got our trail.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Twisting in the saddle, Joe looked back once more. Sure enough, he could now see a cloud of dust that indicated they had someone on their trail that was coming quickly. \u201cAre you up to riding faster?\u201d Joe asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have to be, won\u2019t I?\u201d Bill replied. He touched his heel to his horse and followed Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

There was no way they could outrun their pursuers. The horses would have to rest. It would be after dark before they reached the fort anyway. Joe thought furiously to find a way to thwart the men behind them.<\/span><\/p>\n

They had ridden for almost an hour, and the horses were laboring. Joe saw with relief a band of trees further along the trail. Bill was reeling in the saddle from exhaustion. \u201cWe\u2019ll stop there!\u201d he cried, and led the way.<\/span><\/p>\n

The thicket of trees was not very broad, but it was quite dense. Joe slid off Cochise and led his sweating mount into deeper cover and then went back to help Bill. His friend was quite grey, but after a few minutes rest, the color began to return to his face and he sipped gratefully from the canteen Joe offered him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are we going to do?\u201d Bill asked. He was watching Joe using his hat to water the horses. \u201cThe horses can\u2019t keep up that pace for much longer.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGive me your greatcoat,\u201d Joe urged.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Bill frowned. \u201cJoe, what are you talking about?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThey aren\u2019t looking for a rider on a pinto horse wearing a green jacket and tan hat,\u201d Joe replied, crouching next to Bill. \u201cIf you ride steadily along that track, you\u2019ll reach the fort by dark. I\u2019ll take your horse, greatcoat and cap and pretend to be you and lead them off on a false trail. That should give you the time you need to get to the fort.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t do that!\u201d Bill objected. \u201cI\u2019ll give you the message and I\u2019ll lead them away.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBill, listen to me,\u201d Joe urged. \u201cYou still aren\u2019t back to full strength and you know it! Cochise will look after you and get you to the fort safely. That\u2019s your first duty, isn\u2019t it? Obedience to orders? Well, your orders were to take that message to the fort, not to hand it over to some civilian. I know this country; don\u2019t worry, I\u2019ll give them the slip. You just hide here until they\u2019ve gone out after me, then head off that way.\u201d He pointed once more to remind Bill of the direction. \u201cThe track leads right there.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Bill hesitated and Joe rose impatiently and began to strip off his jacket.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can deliver the message,\u201d Joe agreed, as he threw down his hat, too. \u201cBut I can\u2019t convince them of its authenticity, because I\u2019m not a soldier and I wasn\u2019t ordered to bring it to the CIC.\u201d He looked at Bill pointedly. \u201cWhat if they don\u2019t believe me? What do I do then?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right,\u201d Bill capitulated. He rose and slid off his greatcoat, handing it to Joe. It was a bit big on Joe, as Joe\u2019s green jacket was a bit tight across the shoulders on Bill, but from a distance, those details wouldn\u2019t be noticed.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leading his horse back onto the trail, Joe looked back. The riders were nearer. \u201cGood luck,\u201d he offered and swung aboard.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you,\u201d Bill replied. He melted back into the trees and watched as best he could as Joe rode casually out of the trees in the direction they had come from, acted as though he had just spotted the riders and lit out over the plains as though all the demons in hell were after him. He was also heading in completely the opposite direction to the fort. Bill didn\u2019t know whether to be sad or glad when the following riders set off in hot pursuit after him.<\/span><\/p>\n

Leading Cochise out, Bill glanced one last time after Joe, then resolutely set out to reach the fort.<\/span><\/p>\n

************************<\/span><\/p>\n

The brown gelding that Joe was now riding had lots of stamina, but it didn\u2019t have the turn of sped that Cochise had. Although Joe did everything he knew to shake off his pursuers, they gained on him slowly. Reaching the dubious shelter of some rocks, Joe pulled his horse to a standstill and patted its sweating neck. The animal\u2019s breath panted in and out, and Joe was breathless, too. He knew they couldn\u2019t go on like this much longer, but he had to give Bill as much of a head start as he could manage.<\/span><\/p>\n

The sound of hooves reached his ears and Joe touched his heel to his horse, sending it forward in a ground-covering trot, hoping to preserve its stamina while he could. The ground had turned hilly and uneven and Joe hoped he would be able to use that to his advantage, even though he knew it worked against him, too.<\/span><\/p>\n

A cry went up from behind him and Joe twisted in his saddle to discover that the troop of cavalry was less than half a mile behind him. There was no time to nurse his tired horse now. Joe kicked it into a gallop, hearing bullets singing past him. He knew that it was almost impossible for a mounted rider to shoot another mounted rider, but there was no accounting for fluke. He hunched low over his horse\u2019s neck.<\/span><\/p>\n

Over the next mile, Joe could feel his horse\u2019s speed slowing until the poor beast was barely managing to keep to a lope. Joe slowed it to a walk, knowing that the troop were going to catch him, but unable to actually ride the horse to death. After all, he had given Bill enough of a head start, he reckoned, and the army horses would be winded too and unable to give chase at any speed. The tired horse stumbled to a stop and Joe slid down, gently patting the steaming wet neck. \u201cWell done, fella,\u201d he whispered and the horse flicked a tired ear in his direction for a moment.<\/span><\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t long before the cavalry appeared over the hill behind Joe. He watched calmly as they drew closer and as they stopped near him, he read by the insignia that the leader was a colonel. Joe felt a moment of disquiet. He knew that they would be annoyed when they discovered his deception but seeing the expression on the man\u2019s face, Joe wondered just how annoyed he would be. Taking a deep breath, Joe slowly slid off the cap and greatcoat, revealing his civilian clothing and haircut.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSeize him!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Unprepared, Joe didn\u2019t resist as a couple of the men jumped down from their horses and grabbed him by the arms. Joe looked fearlessly at the commanding officer, wondering what would come next. He knew by the bruising pressure of the grips on his arms that he wasn\u2019t going to be breaking free fast.<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly and deliberately, the colonel dismounted and handed his reins to another man. He drew off his gauntlets finger by finger as he walked over to Joe, then all around him. Joe deliberately kept his gaze to the front. Finally, the colonel was in front of him again. \u201cWho are you?\u201d he demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe Cartwright,\u201d Joe replied. \u201cWho are you?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

His only response was a backhand slap across the face that seemed to come out of nowhere. Joe\u2019s head snapped to the side, and as he straightened again, he tasted blood in his mouth. He narrowed his eyes as he looked at the military man. \u201cI asked a perfectly fair question,\u201d he pointed out and this time saw the blow coming. His attempt to duck it was hampered by the soldiers holding his arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is Lieutenant Patterson?\u201d the colonel demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Joe answered. It was partly true; he didn\u2019t know Bill\u2019s exact location.<\/span><\/p>\n

This time, the blow was to his stomach and Joe was suddenly certain that Bill was right; Jackson was mad.<\/span><\/p>\n

***********************<\/span><\/p>\n

Riding at a steady trot, Bill hoped that Joe would give the troop the slip and rejoin him on the road to the fort. Bill was tired, but he forced himself to keep going. He hoped that Major Markham was still alive, but he knew that if he got caught, he would die and so would the major as soon as Jackson got back.<\/span><\/p>\n

The sun was going down in a blazing ball of fire when he finally spotted the fort in the distance. He patted the pinto\u2019s neck and they both went on with more enthusiasm. It took him a minute or two to talk his way into the fort, but once he was inside, he was able to prove who he was. Someone took Cochise from him and he was conducted to the adjutant\u2019s office where he was given some much-needed water.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, Lieutenant, what\u2019s this all about?\u201d asked a deep voice and Bill leapt to his feet to salute. But his body was exhausted and he reeled and almost fell. A hand caught his arm and the voice ordered him to sit down, which Bill did gratefully. When his head had stopped spinning, he looked up into the grey eyes of General Markham.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have an urgent letter for you, sir,\u201d he replied. He handed it over and watched while the general read it. Finally, those unsettling grey eyes rested on him once more.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you wearing some civilian clothes?\u201d the general asked, settling himself in a chair next to Bill.<\/span><\/p>\n

Quickly, Bill explained about having been shot and Joe persuading him to swap jackets so that Joe could fool the pursing troop. \u201cI had hoped Joe would have caught up with me by now,\u201d he concluded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIts dark now,\u201d the general mused. \u201cYou get something to eat and get some sleep. At first light, we\u2019ll ride out to find Mr. Cartwright. I\u2019ll need you to help me identify him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir,\u201d Bill replied. \u201cThank you, Sir.\u201d His pleasure in completing his mission was dulled by knowing that Joe might be in jeopardy. Nevertheless, he allowed himself to be escorted to the kitchen where he was given a good meal before he was shown to the barracks where he fell into bed and slept, despite his worries.<\/span><\/p>\n

******************<\/span><\/p>\n

The \u2018interrogation\u2019 had gone on and on, until Joe was incapable of speech. The troop had bivouacked in a sheltered spot nearby. Joe was dragged along there and tied to a tree. He sat, his head slumped over, every part of his body aching. His right eye was swelled shut and every breath was a misery from the pain in his ribs. He wasn\u2019t offered any food when they made the evening meal but Joe didn\u2019t care. He doubted if he could have opened his mouth far enough to take in any nourishment. Joe didn\u2019t know if his jaw was broken or not, but he certainly couldn\u2019t move it much. A soldier stood guard over him just a few feet away, although Joe couldn\u2019t imagine how the colonel thought he was in a fit state to make an escape attempt, even if he hadn\u2019t been so tightly tied.<\/span><\/p>\n

Later, Joe became aware that Jackson was standing over him, watching him. Joe slowly lifted his head and glared back as best he could. The man\u2019s gaze was disquieting. Joe fought down the shiver that wanted to become a tremble.<\/span><\/p>\n

Crouching beside his prisoner, Jackson gave him a cold smile. \u201cIf you just tell me where Patterson is, I\u2019ll let you go.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI dunno\u2026 where he is,\u201d Joe hissed. He could barely form the words and they were so slurred that he sounded drunk. He wasn\u2019t so punch drunk that he believed that he would simply be let go. They would have to kill him, he reasoned, and if the price of his life was to keep denying that he knew where Bill was, he would keep on saying it, whatever the cost.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSuit yourself,\u201d Jackson grunted as he rose. \u201cYou\u2019ll have one more chance to tell me the truth in the morning, and if you don\u2019t, then you\u2019ll take the consequences.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe watched him leave, his heart thudding painfully against his sore ribs. He was under no illusion about what Jackson meant; come morning, if he didn\u2019t tell them where Bill was, he would die. And when he told them where Bill was, he would die. Joe\u2019s mouth was suddenly dry and he gazed sightlessly into the dark, trying to figure out a way he could escape.<\/span><\/p>\n

************************<\/span><\/p>\n

When he was shaken awake in the cold, grey, pre-dawn light, Bill Patterson felt as though he had only been asleep for a few minutes. It took him several seconds to remember where he was, and when he did remember, he threw back the covers and dressed in record time. Breakfast was a cup of hot coffee and a dry bread roll, which he gulped down without noticing. All Bill\u2019s unease came flooding back and he was eager to get started. He mounted Cochise, glad to see that the pinto looked to be in good shape.<\/span><\/p>\n

They left the fort before the sun had peeked over the horizon. The world was eerily still. There wasn\u2019t a cloud in the sky, nor a single bird or mammal to be seen anywhere. It was as though the world was still sleeping, holding its breath to see what the outcome of the day would be. Bill tried to shake off his melancholy thoughts, but he didn\u2019t succeed.<\/span><\/p>\n

He was somewhat in awe of the company he rode in, too, for General Markham had insisted that Bill ride alongside him. \u201cI need you to show us which direction Cartwright took,\u201d the general explained. \u201cAnd to identify him when we reach the others.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The general was being incredibly friendly to Bill, who couldn\u2019t understand why. But in his letter, Major Markham, the general\u2019s brother and Bill\u2019s commanding officer, had written<\/span><\/p>\n

Lieutenant Patterson is an exceptional officer, George. I think he has the abilities to go far. The men like him and believe me, I would not have entrusted this letter to him if I did not believe him capable of delivering it. He has seen with his own eyes that Jackson is mad. I have to say that I fear for my life if something is not done about Jackson. Please come in all haste and take care of Patterson for me. I may need him again.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Your brother Thomas.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

There was no chatter as they rode. The men knew that their silence might give them an edge when they caught up with the renegade colonel and his men. All had been briefed on what they were to do and they were all somber.<\/span><\/p>\n

The return journey seemed to take less time to Bill, but he reasoned that both he and the horse were fresh. He felt quite well again, and longed to break out of the disciplined trot or steady canter that they kept to. Fear for Joe was eating into his gut.<\/span><\/p>\n

When they reached the stand of trees where Bill and Joe had parted company, the scout went out in the lead, tracking. It wasn\u2019t a hard trail to follow and they made good time as they rode along. The scout ranged further ahead and Bill found himself hoping that he would find Joe safe and well somewhere just up ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n

************************<\/span><\/p>\n

The night had passed \u2013 well, it had passed. That was all Joe was willing to say about it. He was cold, tired, sore and hungry. And afraid. For the past while, Jackson had been pacing about among the men and venting his temper on them. Joe had no idea why Jackson was so angry, but he was beginning to fear that it was his refusal to talk that was at the back of it and that it wouldn\u2019t be long before he came over and started abusing Joe again.<\/span><\/p>\n

The men were scurrying about, trying to put more order into the already orderly camp. Breakfast was being cooked and Joe could see that the men were getting oatmeal and Jackson was getting bacon and eggs. The aroma of piping hot coffee made Joe\u2019s overpowering thirst worse. He watched as the men ate. Even his guard had abandoned his post to eat.<\/span><\/p>\n

Not that it made any difference. Joe had tried all night to break free of his bonds, but he had not succeeded in loosening them even slightly. His right wrist, already sore to begin with, now had no feeling in it, although Joe could feel his fingers wiggling against his back. His body was so relentlessly, grindingly, sore that Joe doubted if he could run even if he did get free. He fervently hoped that breakfast would last a long time.<\/span><\/p>\n

But his luck was out. Breakfast was consumed and the camp tidied up, the horses saddled ready for departure. Joe knew that the time was drawing closer when he would have to decide what he was going to say.<\/span><\/p>\n

A thrill of fear shot through Joe\u2019s stomach as Jackson came over. \u201cGet him to his feet,\u201d Jackson ordered and watched as Joe\u2019s bonds were cut and he was hauled to his feet. The movement evoked a huge surge of pain and Joe could barely contain a scream. His hands were retied behind his back.<\/span><\/p>\n

Somehow, Joe managed to get on top of the pain and he squinted at Jackson as he once more circled around Joe. \u201cYou have a choice, Cartwright,\u201d Jackson told him coming to stand right in front of him. \u201cYou can tell me what I want to know, and I will leave you here like this. I\u2019m sure you\u2019ll get free eventually.\u00a0 Or you can continue in your stubborn ignorance and suffer the consequences. What\u2019ll it be?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

As Joe gazed at him, he realized that he didn\u2019t have to make the decision. His own stubborn nature had made the decision for him; he couldn\u2019t betray Bill, even knowing that the young man had most likely reached the fort the previous night. If there was the least chance that Bill might fall into Jackson\u2019s hands, then Joe wasn\u2019t going to take that risk.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI dunno\u2026where\u2026.he\u2026.is,\u201d Joe panted. He still found talking extremely difficult and it was made even harder a moment later when Jackson backhanded him across the face once more. Next time, Joe didn\u2019t even try to answer the question and doubled over when he was punched in the stomach. The men holding him upright let go and a punishing fall was added to the abuse.<\/span><\/p>\n

Lying there with the world swimming in and out of focus, Joe knew he would die. He blinked sweat out of his eyes and tried very hard to listen to what Jackson was saying to his soldiers, but all he could make out were the words \u201ckill him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly galvanized by fear, Joe kicked out and knocked the colonel off his feet. Joe knew it was a futile gesture and likely only to speed his death, but he couldn\u2019t go out without showing how he felt at least once.<\/span><\/p>\n

Swearing sulphurously, the colonel regained his feet and kicked Joe twice in the ribs. This time, Joe definitely felt a rib break. He tried to squirm away, but his body had stopped taking commands from his mind and he didn\u2019t move at all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGet everyone prepared,\u201d Jackson snarled. \u201cWe move out in ten minutes!\u201d He turned and walked away. Joe sagged back in relief. He had a momentary reprieve.<\/span><\/p>\n

But Jackson had barely taken one step when an authoritative voice shouted, \u201cColonel Jackson, this is General Markham. I order you to lay down your arms and surrender yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

************************<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFound them, Sir!\u201d The scout was justifiably pleased with himself, for they were now able to creep up on Jackson\u2019s position. Markham quickly sought the information he needed before laying out his strategy to his troop.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once everyone was in position, Markham called, \u201cColonel Jackson, this is General Markham. I order you to lay down your arms and surrender yourself.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

In a well coordinated move, the general\u2019s men stepped out from the surrounding cover and raised their rifles. Jackson\u2019s men sensed the inevitable and dropped their weapons.<\/span><\/p>\n

But Jackson himself reacted differently. He threw himself at Joe and dragged the dazed young man to his feet, using him as a shield. \u201cI will not surrender myself!\u201d he cried back. He drew his revolver and dug the barrel under Joe\u2019s chin. Joe couldn\u2019t stop a groan escaping. \u201cIf you don\u2019t let me go, I\u2019ll kill him.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Beside Markham, Bill\u2019s breath caught in his throat. Markham put a steadying hand on the younger man\u2019s arm. \u201cSteady,\u201d he urged in a low voice. \u201cWe\u2019ll get Joe out of this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

************************<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cColonel Jackson, you are surrounded,\u201d Markham repeated. \u201cThrow down your arms. That is an order!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow do I know you\u2019re General Markham?\u201d Jackson shouted back. He changed his grip so that his left arm was now tight around Joe\u2019s neck and the barrel of his revolver was now resting on Joe\u2019s temple. Joe tried to quell the impulse to struggle, knowing that Jackson would only keep tightening his stranglehold.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSir, you can\u2019t step up there!\u201d Bill argued as he saw Markham preparing to do just that.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI have no choice,\u201d Markham replied. He stepped up so he was in Jackson\u2019s line of sight. After a momentary pause, Bill followed him. \u201cNow you can see I am who I say I am,\u201d Markham shouted. \u201cSo obey my orders. Put down your weapon and let that man go!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Jackson cried. \u201cPatterson\u2019s poisoned your mind with lies!\u201d He pressed the barrel of his gun harder against Joe\u2019s head. Joe bit back a wince. He was relieved to see that Bill was all right.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay here!\u201d Markham ordered Bill in an undertone and began to walk slowly towards Jackson and Joe. \u201cColonel, you are already facing a court martial; don\u2019t make things worse by harming Mr. Cartwright any further.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay back,\u201d Jackson warned, stepping back and dragging Joe with him. Joe stumbled and the hold on his throat tightened again. He choked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Step by steady step, Markham drew closer. Jackson was rapidly running out of room. The tense stand-off drew most eyes and nobody moved. Everyone feared what Jackson would do if he was distracted. Joe\u2019s breathing was ragged as the pain began to take over. He couldn\u2019t foresee the outcome of this steady advance and retreat, but he feared the worst.<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly, Jackson bumped against a tree. The jolt echoed through Joe\u2019s body and his knees buckled. Markham saw his chance and moved forward quickly. Distracted, it took Jackson several seconds to realize that, but when he did, he shoved Joe to the ground, kicking him on the way down for good measure and prepared to shoot his CIC.<\/span><\/p>\n

As he tumbled to the ground, Joe groaned with the pain that shot through his body. His ribs were on fire and the world was spinning around him. But he dragged in a lungful of air and squinted up at Jackson, believing that he would see death staring him in the face. It came as something of a shock to realize that Jackson had forgotten about him and was going to fire on the General.<\/span><\/p>\n

A sudden surge of adrenalin brought Joe to his knees and he threw himself at Jackson\u2019s legs, despite the fact his hands were still bound tightly behind him. He crashed into Jackson and knocked him off balance and his shot went wide. As Jackson tumbled to the ground, he brought the butt of his revolver down on Joe\u2019s neck and head. Joe was knocked cold.<\/span><\/p>\n

With a roar, Markham launched himself onto Jackson as Joe slumped down. The two men fought furiously for control of the revolver, rolling back and forth and even at one point rolling clear over the top of Joe. But eventually, Markham prevailed. He clipped Jackson on the chin several times until the gun dropped from lax fingers. Slowly, Markham got to his knees and then his feet, looking down in disgust at his erstwhile colonel. \u201cTake him into custody,\u201d he ordered, panting. He straightened his uniform and glanced round to see what had happened to Joe. He wasn\u2019t altogether surprised to see Bill kneeling by his friend and cutting through his bonds. Ballantyne went over. \u201cHow is he?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Glancing up, Bill replied, \u201cHe\u2019s been badly beaten, Sir. I\u2019m no doctor, but he doesn\u2019t look good.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Taking a deep breath, Markham looked around. \u201cYou men! Take these men into custody, and get them headed back to the fort.\u201d Ballantyne beckoned to some other men. \u201cYou others, prepare a horse litter.\u201d He looked back at Bill. \u201cWe\u2019ll take him back to the fort.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Standing slowly, Bill looked troubled. \u201cBegging your pardon, Sir, but I think it would be better if we took him back to the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d Markham asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI know the Cartwrights, Sir. I know that Mr. Cartwright\u2019s father will want him brought home as soon as possible, and it\u2019s almost the same distance to the ranch as it is to the fort. Sir.\u201d Bill knew he should have made more of an effort to marshal his arguments, but he wasn\u2019t quite sure how to explain to his superior that Joe would want his father.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, all right,\u201d Markham agreed. \u201cIs there a good doctor nearby?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sir,\u201d Bill nodded. \u201cJoe told me that he had seen a doctor the day we met.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean he was injured already?\u201d Markham demanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUm, he has a sprained wrist,\u201d Bill explained. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t giving him that much trouble, Sir.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell,\u201d Markham subsided, looking down at the unconscious Joe and grimacing as he saw his injuries, \u201cfrom the little I\u2019ve seen of your friend, Lieutenant, I would think he wouldn\u2019t allow it to hold him back anyway.\u201d He smiled. \u201cYou look after him, and we\u2019ll get him home as soon as we can.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

***************<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe? Can you hear me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Blinking, Joe forced open his one good eye and squinted vilely at Bill. \u201cBill?\u201d he whispered. He still found his jaw too stiff to move much and his words were further slurred by his split lip. \u201cWhat\u2026happened?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Helping Joe to drink, Bill told him. \u201cWe\u2019re taking you home, Joe,\u201d he concluded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d Joe whispered. He heard steps approaching and glanced round to see the general crouching beside him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, I\u2019m General Markham. I\u2019m very pleased to make your acquaintance, sir.\u201d He smiled at Joe. \u201cI\u2019m very grateful for everything you did for Lieutenant Patterson. We must, of course, recompense you for the horse you supplied him with. I\u2019ve been looking him over and he\u2019s a fine animal. I don\u2019t suppose your ranch has any more like that you could sell us?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow many\u2026d\u2019you\u2026want?\u201d Joe parried and the corner of his mouth twitched.<\/span><\/p>\n

Laughing, Markham reached down to give Joe\u2019s shoulder a gentle squeeze. \u201cMr. Cartwright, I foresee a long and profitable future for us both! You rest and we\u2019ll get you home as soon as possible.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Joe breathed. He closed his eyes, the better to deal with the pain. He could sense Bill sitting next to him and was grateful for his friend\u2019s company, but couldn\u2019t summon any energy for small talk. More than anything, Joe wanted to go home and go to sleep. He was dozing off when he was gently lifted into the horse litter and the small cavalcade headed off towards the Ponderosa.<\/span><\/p>\n

**************************<\/span><\/p>\n

Supper was past and Ben and Adam were engaged in a game of chess when Hoss came in from the barn where he had been checking on the progress of a sick foal. \u201cPa, there\u2019s a load of riders comin\u2019 in! They look like army men ta me!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cArmy?\u201d Ben echoed, bewildered. A sudden pang of fear shot through his heart. \u201cDo you think it\u2019s got something to do with Joe?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Adam responded. He saw how white his father\u2019s face was and hurried to attempt a joke to try and dispel the worry. \u201cBut Joe hasn\u2019t been there long enough to get into trouble with the army.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The black look Ben sent him told Adam his attempt at humor had fallen short. They rose and went out as the lead riders came into the yard. As Hoss had said, they were from the army. Ben moved forward as he recognized Bill. Behind him, Adam and Hoss exchanged glances, wondering where on earth Joe was.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLieutenant!\u201d Ben tried a smile, but his worry over-rode it. He realized that the man next to Bill was a general and opened his mouth, but Bill was already talking.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Cartwright, we\u2019ve brought Joe home.\u201d He pointed behind him to where the horse litter had just arrived.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben promptly forgot about the general and Bill and hurried over to peer down into Joe\u2019s pale, battered face. \u201cJoe?\u201d he whispered, his hand creeping out to brush the unruly curls off Joe\u2019s forehead. \u201cJoe, can you hear me?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, Joe\u2019s left eye opened a slit. \u201cHi, Pa,\u201d he breathed. There was a twitch at the corner of his split and swollen lips, but the smile never came to fruition. \u201c\u2019m I\u2026home?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, son, you\u2019re home,\u201d Ben replied and Markham glanced at Bill.\u00a0 \u201cGood call, Lieutenant,\u201d he praised.<\/span><\/p>\n

*************************<\/span><\/p>\n

With the soldiers bedded down in the bunkhouse and Bill and General Markham settled in the house, Adam felt he could at last return to Joe\u2019s room to see how his brother was doing. Hoss and Ben had carried Joe upstairs while Adam took charge of the soldiers and sent a ranch hand for the doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n

Going into Joe\u2019s room, he found a smile for his youngest brother. Ben and Hoss had helped Joe undress and slide into bed and Adam could see the multitude of bruises that peppered Joe\u2019s ribcage. \u201cHow\u2019re you doing, buddy?\u201d he asked as Joe glanced over at him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFine,\u201d Joe muttered. In truth, he was exhausted and in a lot of pain and breathing was difficult. He wanted to tell his family what had happened to him, but talking was too difficult. He tried to ease his body to find a comfortable spot, but there wasn\u2019t one to be had.<\/span><\/p>\n

To keep Joe awake while they waited for the doctor, and to relieve him of the need to talk, Ben told his son about their activities on the ranch while he had been away, explaining that the last of the hay had been brought in that day and Hoss told Joe about the sick foal, assuring his younger brother that it would be fine. Joe nodded sometimes, but even that simple movement caused him distress, so he just signaled his understanding with a series of \u2018mm\u2019 sounds.<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a great relief to them all when Doc Martin finally showed up. By then, it was well past midnight and Joe\u2019s exhaustion was plain to them all.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCan you tell me what happened, Joe?\u201d Paul asked. \u201cI know talking hurts, but I need to know.\u201d He didn\u2019t add that Joe\u2019s ability or otherwise to speak would help with his diagnosis.<\/span><\/p>\n

Slowly, with many pauses and his words unclear in many places, Joe told his story. It was the first time any of them had heard it. Throughout, Ben made sure Joe could see him and he smiled his approval and pride down on his son. Finally, the halting recitation came to a stop. Joe swallowed and asked the question that had been beating about his head for the past while. \u201cIs\u2026major\u2026safe?\u201d he slurred.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben replied. He could see at once that this response troubled Joe.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go and find out for you in a minute,\u201d Adam promised. He wasn\u2019t going anywhere until he heard Paul\u2019s diagnosis.<\/span><\/p>\n

Gently, Paul felt around Joe\u2019s ribs, finding a couple broken on each side. The sprained wrist was much worse, with the swelling almost doubled because of the tightness of the ropes that had bound Joe. Joe\u2019s right eye was gradually opening again and Paul peered closely into each eye to make sure there was no more damage to them apart from the bruising. Finally, he came to feel Joe\u2019s swollen jaw.<\/span><\/p>\n

The first delicate touch almost had Joe out of his bed. A strangled scream escaped his lips. \u201cSorry, Joe,\u201d Paul apologized. \u201cBen, can you hold him, please?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Nodding, Ben quickly moved so that he was pinning Joe\u2019s shoulders to the bed. Groans of pain slipped past Joe\u2019s control and he drew his legs up towards his chest as the pain grew unbearable. He fought weakly to rid himself of his tormentor. He didn\u2019t think he could bear the examination to go on for one second more.<\/span><\/p>\n

It took Joe several moments to realize that Paul had finished. Gradually Joe\u2019s breathing came under control again and he opened his eyes to find them all peering at him worriedly. Paul smiled when he saw Joe was back with them. \u201cWell, Joe, you\u2019ve had as thorough a beating as I\u2019ve seen for a long time,\u201d he began. \u201cYou\u2019ve got a few broken ribs, as I\u2019m sure you\u2019re only too aware and more bruises than you could shake a stick at. You might find that there\u2019s a trace of blood in your urine, but don\u2019t worry about it. The bruising to your kidneys is minimal. However, your biggest problem right now is that dislocated jaw.\u201d He glanced at Ben, Adam and Hoss and saw that they all had remarkably similar dumbfounded expressions on their faces. \u201cCould I get some ice, please? We\u2019ll try and get some of this swelling down, then I\u2019ll pop the jaw back into place.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe made a noise that sounded exactly like he was going to be sick and Paul smiled. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, it won\u2019t take a moment,\u201d he promised. \u201cAnd I\u2019ll give you something for the pain before we start. Deal?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDeal,\u201d Joe agreed. \u201cThat\u2026why\u2026I\u2026can\u2019t\u2026talk?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why,\u201d Paul agreed. He realized that the Cartwrights were all still standing there gaping at Joe. \u201cIce, please?\u201d he reminded them. \u201cAnd Joe wants to know about the major, whoever he is.\u201d He smiled as Adam and Hoss leapt to their feet and hurried off; Hoss to get the ice and Adam to find out about the major. Ben stayed right where he was. Paul drew up an injection of morphine and shot it into Joe\u2019s thigh. He knew it would be working by the time Hoss came back with the ice.<\/span><\/p>\n

**********************<\/span><\/p>\n

Despite the morphine, Joe let out a hideous scream as his jaw snapped back into place and slumped unconscious. Ben straightened up and wiped the sweat from his brow with a shaking hand. Paul Martin knew exactly how he felt. \u201cI\u2019m just going to put this bandage on for a few days, Ben,\u201d he explained. \u201cJust until the ligaments have had time to settle. Meantime, give Joe fluids until he\u2019s feeling a bit better. I\u2019ve taped up his ribs and I\u2019d like him to stay in bed for several days to allow the bones to start knitting. We don\u2019t want a punctured lung! I don\u2019t think Joe will want to get up any time soon, anyway. He\u2019s going to be very sore. His speech should correct itself as his jaw gets better. I\u2019d think you\u2019ll see an improvement right away, although I don\u2019t think he\u2019ll want to talk much until his jaw feels better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Ben replied.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see myself out,\u201d Paul smiled. \u201cOh, and is the major all right? And who is he anyway?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Quickly, Ben told Paul the story and concluded by saying, \u201cYes the major is all right.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood,\u201d grunted a tired voice from the bed. As Paul had said, Joe\u2019s speech was much improved already. \u201cI\u2019d\u2026have\u2026hated\u2026.to\u2026go\u2026.through\u2026all\u2026this\u2026.for\u2026nothing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStop talking and go to sleep!\u201d\u00a0 Paul ordered. \u201cI bet your soldier friend can obey orders!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A tiny smile crossed Joe\u2019s face as he remembered their campfire conversation. \u201cThe…first\u2026duty.\u201d He dutifully obeyed orders and slid into sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n

************************<\/span><\/p>\n

Next morning, Joe managed some beef broth for breakfast and was wondering if there was a comfortable position he could lie in when Ben came back into the room. With him were General Markham and Bill Patterson. Joe managed a small smile for them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019re you feeling, Joe?\u201d Bill asked. He was dressed in his full uniform.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOk,\u201d Joe allowed. Ben tutted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBy that he means he\u2019s not going to die,\u201d he explained, throwing a loving, exasperated glance at Joe. \u201cAlthough I dare say he\u2019d tell you he was fine on his death bed!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, young man, we have a lot to thank you for,\u201d Markham stated. \u201cNot least the fact that my brother is still alive. I hope once you\u2019re better you\u2019ll come down to Fort Lowell and sell me some of those horses of yours!\u201d He shook Joe\u2019s hand firmly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI will,\u201d Joe promised.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for everything you did for me, Joe,\u201d Bill said, as Markham and Ben stepped aside. \u201cI\u2019m sorry you\u2019ve been hurt so badly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Sighing, Joe shook his head. \u201cIt\u2019s okay,\u201d he muttered. He wished he could say more, but then he saw by his friend\u2019s face that he understood.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re leaving soon,\u201d Bill reported. \u201cSo this is goodbye. I hope we meet again.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMe, too,\u201d Joe agreed. He found another smile as they left.<\/span><\/p>\n

***********************<\/span><\/p>\n

Many years later, Joe was once again under General Markham\u2019s care when he was hunted by a crazy man and taken to Fort Lowell, desperately ill. He had been on his way to Fort Lowell to sell them some horses; a trip he had taken regularly, thanks to his part in helping to save the life of the general\u2019s brother.<\/span><\/p>\n

***************************<\/span><\/p>\n

But that was the future. Joe heard the horses in the yard as the soldiers left. Ben came back in a few minutes later. \u201cIs there anything I can get you?\u201d he asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

After a moment\u2019s thought, Joe nodded. \u201cWhat is it?\u201d Ben asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA steak,\u201d Joe replied, and a small laugh escaped him as he saw the look on Ben\u2019s face.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAs soon as you can eat one, Joe, I promise that you can have the biggest steak I can find!\u201d Ben grinned. \u201cAnd I promise to hide it from Hoss, too!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHide what?\u201d Hoss asked as he came in.<\/span><\/p>\n

His only answer was some pained giggling from Joe and a bellow of laughter from Ben.<\/span><\/p>\n

*****End*****<\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary: A chance meeting with an army officer sends Joe on a desperate mission to help save a soldier\u2019s life.<\/p>\n

Rated: \u00a0T \u00a0 (10,120 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":1050,"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_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[2,23,1007],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1209","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-actionadventure","category-drama","category-joe-cartwright","wpcat-2-id","wpcat-23-id","wpcat-1007-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/MyFriendMyEnemy1.png?fit=486%2C296&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1209","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/45"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1209"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1209\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1050"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1209"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1209"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1209"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}