{"id":12101,"date":"2003-04-15T10:18:53","date_gmt":"2003-04-15T14:18:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12101"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:06:44","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:06:44","slug":"settling-the-score-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12101","title":{"rendered":"Settling the Score (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong> \u00a0A month after coming out of a coma caused by a head injury, Little Joe is full of hate for the one responsible and wants to get revenge.\u00a0 His father however, has other plans for the persons responsible for nearly killing his son.\u00a0 Can father convince son that vengeance is of the Lord and not of man?<\/p>\n

Rating:<\/strong> \u00a0PG \u00a0Part two of three. (12,800 words)<\/p>\n

The Score Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

A Score to Settle<\/a>
\nSettling the Score
\n<\/a>The Final Score<\/a><\/p>\n

Settling the Score<\/strong><\/p>\n

It had been nearly a month since his accident, as Joe\u2019s family called it, and the boy was happy to be allowed out of the house at last. It had taken quite a bit of pleading and beseeching on his part to finally get his father to agree to let him go for a ride. Joe had felt as if the walls had begun to close in on him and he had wanted desperately to get away for a short while to be alone. Now, as he headed to the small rise just above the lake, he felt relaxed and at peace with himself. He had, over the last several days, given a lot of thought to what had happened to him and just how he would settle the score with his old rival, Lucas Tatum.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swung his leg over Cochise\u2019s back and slid from the saddle. Leading the horse to the water\u2019s edge, he allowed the animal to satisfy his thirst and then looped the reins over a low hanging branch of a nearby tree. Joe kicked at the stones beneath his feet as he walked along the shoreline. He picked up a flat stone and tossed it into the water, watching as the stone skipped several times across the top of the glass-like water. He sighed, thinking back to that day\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The day had been hot and humid, with huge dark thunderheads off in the distance, a sure sign that a storm was brewing. Tempers that day among the boys at school had been short and more than one scuffle had broken out between several of the older boys, namely himself Joe recalled, and two others, Lucas Tatum, and his constant companion, Timothy. Joe had been forced to defend himself as both of the two older boys had cornered him behind the schoolhouse and had begun pounding on him. By the time that the teacher, Miss Abigail Jones, had been made aware of the fight going on, Lucas and Timmy had already finished what they had started. Joe lay face down in the dirt, groaning from the onslaught of punches to his mid-section. When he finally was able to pull himself to his feet, Lucas and Timmy had made a string of feeble excuses about what had happened, all lies. Luckily for Little Joe, several of the other kids had explained to the schoolmarm what had really taken place and Joe was soon vindicated. Lucas and Timmy where forced to remain after school as punishment and so, by the end of the day, Joe had started home, believing that for the present, he would no longer be troubled by the bothersome pair of hooligans.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had ridden less than halfway home when the sudden, piercing pain had hit him in the back of the head. In spite of his efforts, he had felt himself falling ungraciously from his horse and landing face down in the dirt. As he struggled to stay conscious and raise his head, he had seen dusty, dirty and worn boots standing inches from his face. He gathered what dwindling strength he had remaining and cast his eyes upward, startled by the piercing blue eyes that glared down at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI told ya, I\u2019d get even with ya Cartwright,\u201d Lucas had laughed. \u201cOld Miss Jones\u2019 had a last minute meetin\u2019 and let us go, so\u2026\u201d the laughter was wicked as Joe fought to focus his eyes. \u201cToday was payday. Happy dreams,\u201d sneered Lucas as the sound of his evil laughter resounded in Joe\u2019s ears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head had fallen back into the dirt, his eyes closed, his mind began slipping further and further into the dark world of obscurity. The last words he remembered were those of his attackers as Lucas proudly bragged to his cohort, \u201cI ain\u2019t such a bad shot with this here slingshot, am I?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe picked up another stone and tossed it into the lake, caring not that the stone refused to skip along the smooth still water. He glanced around at his surroundings, taking in the beauty of the mountains and green forest that circled Lake Tahoe. Quite unexpectedly, he felt a smidgen of guilt sweep over him as he considered what he felt he must do. He sighed deeply, all of his life he had been taught that vengeance was something that only God had the right to do and that it was up to man to allow God to even the score, in His own way and time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe removed his hat and with his left hand, ran his slender fingers through the thick mass of dark curls that crowned his head. He wanted nothing more than to settle the score between him and Lucas Tatum himself, yet the nagging feeling that retaliation would be in the wrong, continued to haunt his thoughts. For years, since his first day at school when he had been but six, Lucas and his buddy, Timmy, had made his life miserable any way that the obnoxious pair could find to torment him. Lucas was older by at least a year and a half, bigger, stronger and never without his sidekick. For years, Joe had been forced to take on not just one but both boys and had never come out the victor in any of the scuffles that they had been involved in.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018Just once,\u2019 thought Joe to himself as he turned back toward his horse, \u2018I\u2019d like nothing more than to take Lucas in a fair fight.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe untied the reins and sprang into his saddle, remaining motionless as he stared out across the lake. He had been filled with hate by what had happened. He had nearly died from the blow to his head, his father had been made to worry himself sick, and his brothers had spent hours after he had finally awaken from the coma, entertaining him and keeping him company. Adam had sat up far into the nights when Joe had been unable to sleep and read to him from his various books. On other nights, Hoss had played checkers, allowing him to win more often than loosing. Each member of his family had suffered in some small way because of Lucas\u2019 cruel actions, and for those reasons, Joe was having trouble finding it in his heart not to be bitter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned his horse toward home, it was getting late and the last thing that he wanted to do was to give cause for his father to start worrying about him. Joe remembered the anxiety that his father had during the time that Joe had come out of the coma, fearing that his son had suffered some sort of brain damage and Joe resented the fact that Lucas had been the cause of that worry. Joe kicked gently at Cochise\u2019s sides and urged the pinto toward home. Joe could not pull his thoughts from Lucas and just how much he wanted to get his revenge, it was beginning to eat away at him, making him lose sleep and even have nightmares. His mind and his heart battled over which of the two was right and which one was wrong. Joe dabbed at his eyes, \u2018this is ridiculous,\u2019 he whispered to himself, \u2018all I gotta do is face him, and then throw the first punch, that should rile him good.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was nearing home as he forced himself to shake the wicked thoughts from his mind. It was wrong, his heart screamed, but it would make you feel so much better, shouted his brain. Joe felt as if he had an angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other as he continued to allow the two to debate the issue.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cochise had stopped at the hitching rail. Joe was so lost in his thoughts that he had not even realized that he was home until he felt his father\u2019s hand on his knee and the gentle sound of Ben\u2019s laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph?\u201d Ben repeated for the second time. \u201cSon, are you all right?\u201d questioned Ben, suddenly afraid for his son, as his laughter died.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced downward and when he saw his father\u2019s frightened look, he suddenly snapped from his daydream.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa,\u201d Joe said as he swung his leg over his horse\u2019s back and dismounted in front of his father. \u201cI guess I was daydreaming,\u201d he smiled shyly as he wrapped the reins about the post.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed softly, happy to see the smile that crossed his young son\u2019s face. \u201cI guess perhaps you were.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned suddenly, his smiled vanished as he met his father\u2019s gaze. \u201cPa, I need to talk to ya about something, it\u2019s sorta important,\u201d Joe said in a soft voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs something wrong, son?\u201d Ben questioned as he placed his hand on Joe\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head as he walked along side his father toward the house. \u201cNo, I mean\u2026well\u2026can we just go inside and talk? I\u2019ll try to explain it to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had reached the front of the house and Ben pushed opened the door to allow Joe to enter in front of him. \u201cDo you want to sit down on the settee, or is this something that we should talk about privately, in your room?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy room, if that\u2019s okay with you?\u201d Joe replied as he looked imploringly into Ben\u2019s eyes. \u201cI thought that if you felt the need to yell at me, then it might be best that no one hears, ya,\u201d Joe said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy, this does sound serious, son,\u201d Ben commented as he followed Joe up the stairs. He smiled behind the boy\u2019s back knowing that Joe could not see his expression. \u201cI hope you aren\u2019t in trouble, you\u2019ve only been gone for a couple of hours,\u201d Ben teased lightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stopped and turned around, his eyes meeting the chocolate ones that sparkled with amusement. He couldn\u2019t stop the smile that spread across his face when he realized that his father was teasing him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw Pa,\u201d laughed Joe, \u201cthat ain\u2019t even funny.\u201d Joe continued up the stairs but even with his back to his father, Ben could hear the soft chuckles that Joe tried to hide.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe eased opened the door and led the way into his room. He suddenly felt awkward standing alone with his father. Had he made the right decision, he questioned himself as he moved to the window and pushed back the sheers. He was surprised when he saw his hand, for it trembled slightly as he gripped the curtains.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe?\u201d he heard his father softly say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gulped and slowly turned to face his parent. \u201cI lied to you, Pa. I know what happened to me\u2026and who did it, I\u2019m just not sure why,\u201d Joe blurted out as he dropped his head, ashamed to face his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He heard the air expel from his father\u2019s lungs and he tipped his head up just enough so that he could peep from beneath his thick lashes to examine Ben\u2019s expression. It was unreadable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026hadn\u2019t meant to lie\u2026\u201d he stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben said calmly, \u201cwhy don\u2019t we sit down and then you can tell me all about it?\u201d Ben pointed to the bed and Joe moved quickly to obey his father. He sat silently as Ben pulled the chair to the edge of the bed and sat down, facing his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have to be honest with you son,\u201d Ben proclaimed when Joe had made himself comfortable on the bed. \u201cI\u2019ve known all along that you weren\u2019t telling me everything, that you were holding something back from me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did?\u201d Joe asked in a surprised tone as he stared in shock at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s lips formed a tight smile. \u201cYes, that day I asked you about what happened, I could see it in your eyes that you weren\u2019t telling me everything that you knew about how you got hurt. Would you mind telling me why and what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe dropped his head, suddenly concerned about what his father would think of him once he told Ben the truth. Joe cast a wary glance at his father and cringed slightly when he saw that his parent was watching every move that he made.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026I wanted to get him back\u2026for what he done to me. I hate him, Pa\u2026he\u2019s done nothing but cause me misery from the moment I met him, ten years ago. He\u2019s gotten me into more trouble, called me names, laughed at me, my family, Hop Sing, even my friends. He\u2019s pounded me more times than I care to remember, or admit to anyone and I\u2019ve never, not once in all these years have I been able to take him in a fight,\u201d Joe blurted out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He felt the sting of tears and quickly wiped them away. \u201cWanna know why?\u201d Joe looked up into his father\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded his head. \u201cWhy?\u201d he answered with compassion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause the\u2026cause he don\u2019t fight fair, he always has his side-kick with him and I always end up having to fight two instead of one, unless Mitch is around. And he ain\u2019t always there, cause those two somehow manage to catch me alone or behind the school on my way to or from the outhouse.\u201d Joe dabbed at his nose. \u201cIt\u2019s not fair, Pa\u2026and I swear, one of these days, I\u2019m gonna catch Lucas Tatum alone and I\u2019m going to pound him so darn burn bad\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben said sternly, \u201cthat will be enough of that kind of talk, young man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Pa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, it\u2019s not your place to go looking for a fight, not with that kind of attitude,\u201d Ben stated. \u201cNow, please, start from the beginning and tell me what happened. I take it that it was Lucas Tatum and Timmy who caused your injury?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Joe\u2019s turn to nod his head, \u201cHe used his slingshot, I heard him bragging about what a good shot he was,\u201d Joe said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben saw the unhappiness in his son\u2019s eyes and it hurt him to see it. \u201cBy he, I take it you mean Lucas, am I right?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sniffed and nodded his head. \u201cYeah, it was Lucas, and when I fell off my horse, I looked up cause I saw someone\u2019s boots in front of my face. It was him and he was looking at me like he thought it was funny, and then the last thing I remember before I passed out was the sound of his laughter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tears filled the hazel eyes and when Joe blinked, two tiny beads of water rolled slowly down the front of his face. \u201cHe\u2026thought it was funny\u2026I nearly died because of him\u2026and he laughed. I will never forgive him for that and the first chance I get, I\u2019m going to make him regret what he did to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben could plainly see the tears that rolled down his son\u2019s face and he ached to take the boy into his arms and comfort him in some small way, but Ben held back. His son\u2019s words frightened him for in Joe\u2019s voice he could hear something that he had never heard in his youngest son\u2019s tone before. It was hatred, raw, unbridled hate for another human being. The sound of Joe\u2019s voice seemed to drip with loathing and it unnerved the older Cartwright and sent spasms of fear shooting into his heart. Ben took a deep breath and moved from his chair to sit next to Little Joe on the bed, he knew what that type of hate could do to a man, even more so, to a young boy. He slipped his arm about his son\u2019s shoulders and was not the least surprised to feel the tremors that shook the slender body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, the good book says, \u2018vengeance is mine, saith the Lord. I shall repay\u2019.\u201d Ben gently tightened his hold for he could feel his son\u2019s body becoming rigid. \u201cI know that sometimes it\u2019s hard to let things such as what happened to you, go unpunished, but for you to plan to seek revenge, is wrong, Joseph. In a court of law, that\u2019s call premeditation and that\u2019s a crime\u2026and is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo is attempted murder,\u201d Joe said as he turned and looked at his father. \u201cHe tried to kill me, Pa, isn\u2019t that reason enough to hate someone? He put you and Adam and Hoss through hell\u2026and he laughed Pa\u2026he laughed!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI realize that son, but had I known who it was that hurt you, I could have had Roy take care of things for us. Lucas can still be arrested and if convicted, he could be sent to prison for a very long time. Would that not be the right thing to do, to let the law take care of matters instead of you go looking for a fight? Anything could happen, Joe, you might even end up hurt much worse than before, or maybe killed\u2026I don\u2019t want that to happen,\u201d proclaimed Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, we will let Roy deal with this. What worries me right now, is what is going on inside of you. All this talk of hate and revenge scares me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood to his feet and began pacing back and forth. Ben could see the imaginary wheels turning in his son\u2019s head as Joe continued to pace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, please stop that pacing and come over here and sit down,\u201d Ben directed. \u201cWe need to talk more about this\u2026please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stopped and returned to the bed, \u201cPa, I can\u2019t help how I feel. I\u2019ve been years trying to brush this off, but this time I can\u2019t seem to shake the feeling. I don\u2019t like what I\u2019m feeling inside, but I can\u2019t help it either, honest,\u201d Joe cried as he swiped his hand across the front of his face. \u201cTell me how to stop hating him, and I will.\u201d Joe\u2019s hazel eyes filled with more tears as he studied his father\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly, Joe leaned over and rested his head on Ben\u2019s shoulder. Instinctively Ben\u2019s arm circled the boy\u2019s body, drawing him closer in to his own body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m scared Pa,\u201d confessed Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The statement caused Ben to shudder slightly. \u201cOf what?\u201d he asked in a whispered voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf what I might be capable of doing, if I ever once took a swing at Lucas. I\u2019m not sure that once I got started, I could quit,\u201d Joe explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen my suggestion would be to avoid him at all cost. Simply, just stay away from him, and give yourself time to work through this hatred you\u2019re carrying in your heart. Joe\u2026son, look at me,\u201d Ben said as he cupped the quivering chin with his hand and gently guided Joe\u2019s head upward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease promise me that you will not seek out Lucas, or Timmy. Promise me that you will give me time to talk to Roy and do things the legal way. Will you make me that promise?\u201d Ben asked as he studied the face of his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe squeezed his eyes tightly shut and for several moments, refused to answer his father. After what seemed like forever to the worried father, Joe opened his eyes and nodded his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI promise Pa, but I\u2019m going back to school on Monday. If he starts anything, anything at all, I\u2019ll not back down, I\u2019ll not walk away from him again. And I won\u2019t be called a chicken or a coward or yellow. All I can promise you is that I will not start anything, I give you my word on that,\u201d promised Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all I ask, Joe. Thank you son,\u201d smiled Ben, releasing his hold on Joe\u2019s chin. \u201cNow, what got all of this started in the first place?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was hot that day, I remember hearing the thunder, but it never did materialize into a storm like it usually does. It was one of those days when nothing went right and everyone\u2019s nerves seemed to be on edge, even Miss Jones\u2019 was grumpy that day. It was lunch break and I had to go to the outhouse. When I came out, Lucas and Timmy were waiting for me, as usual. Lucas wanted my homework, cause he didn\u2019t do his and when I wouldn\u2019t let him have it, he slugged me, right on the chin. I was knocked to the ground but got right up. That\u2019s when Timmy had slipped in behind me and grabbed my arms and held me so that I couldn\u2019t get away. Lucas started punching me in the stomach and after several blows, Timmy let me go and I fell in the dirt. Lucas grabbed my papers, I had them with me cause I was going to work on a that math problem I was having trouble with, you know, the one that Adam helped me with the night before.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded his head, remembering that Joe had had a hard time trying to figure out the correct answer. \u201cI remember, go on, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, anyway, Lucas got my homework and he and Timmy started inside. That\u2019s when Miss Jones came running over, she had seen Lucas punching me. She thought I was the one who started it, according to the lies that Lucas and Timmy were telling her, but some of the other kids saw what happened and told her. She acted like she didn\u2019t want to believe I wasn\u2019t the one who started it, but when I told her to check in Lucas\u2019 pocket, and she did, she found the homework papers with my name on it. That\u2019s when Lucas promised to get even with me for ratting on him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stopped and took a breath, glancing sideways at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the way it\u2019s been since that day at school when Lucas told me that girls can get pregnant just by kissing a boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s lips curled briefly into a tiny smile, he remembered that day very well. Hoss and Joe both had nearly gotten into trouble, Miss Jones had nearly fainted and the entire classroom had broken out in pandemonium.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can understand your frustrations son, but do you think all of those times in your life when Lucas was the cause of your problems, is sufficient enough to warrant hating him?\u201d questioned Ben. \u201cHate is a very strong emotion, a very dangerous and threatening feeling.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow would you feel, Pa, if someone made your life a living hell? I\u2019ve tried not to hate him, but after this\u2026well, I do hate him and I\u2019d give anything, just to be able to wipe that nasty smirk off his face.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe balled up his fist and slammed them into the mattress. \u201cI wish he were dead\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d shouted Ben, totally taken off guard by Joe\u2019s statement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked directly into his son\u2019s eyes, gripping Joe by the shoulders and turning him so that they faced each other. There was no denying it; Joe was filled with hatred for the Tatum youth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do not ever, want to hear you say anything so appalling as that again. Do I make myself clear? I\u2019m ashamed of you,\u201d he added in a lower tone of voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe dropped his head and instantly his eyes over flowed with tears. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa\u2026honest,\u201d he sniffed. \u201cI didn\u2019t mean it\u2026really\u2026I just don\u2019t know how to handle what I\u2019m feeling.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sniffed again and leaned his head over on his father\u2019s shoulder. \u201cI told ya, I was scared\u2026I don\u2019t want Lucas to die\u2026I just want him to leave me alone. I don\u2019t even want him to go to prison\u2026but Pa,\u201d Joe raised his head up again, \u201cHe won\u2019t stop hounding me, unless I make him. Don\u2019t you understand\u2026anything that someone else does to him, like if Roy arrests him, that only makes Lucas madder at me and when he gets a chance, he\u2019ll come after me. What then, do I just stand there and let him beat me into a bloody pulp\u2026maybe even kill me next time, or what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not Joseph, you have every right to defend yourself, I would expect you to\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wiped at his tears with the backs of his hands. \u201cThat\u2019s just it Pa\u2026that\u2019s what scares me\u2026I have taken so much off him for so long, I\u2019m afraid that if I have to fight him again, I might hurt him badly\u2026or worse. What if I can\u2019t stop, once I get started? What if I were to hurt him bad enough that he\u2026died? I\u2019d be the one in trouble again, but this time it might be for murder!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s voice had begun to quiver as he tried to explain his feelings and his fears to his father. \u201cPa\u2026please\u2026tell me what to do,\u201d sobbed Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben clung tightly to his weeping son. Though Ben hesitated to admit it, Joe was right. He was stuck in the middle of something that had not been of his own making. Ben silently cursed himself for not having paid enough attention over the years to a growing situation that had skyrocketed and left his son to suffer the consequences.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Joe, for not having been more aware of the problem. I can plainly see how you have been made to suffer for so long. I just wish that you had come to me sooner, maybe if you had, we could have had this taken care of years ago,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not your fault Pa, you had no idea. I never told you, I just tried to take care of it myself. Guess I didn\u2019t do such a good job, heh?\u201d smiled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Joseph, you only did what you thought was best. I\u2019m just sorry that I couldn\u2019t have helped you more. But I promise, after what you just told me, I will do all I can to get his straightened out. Maybe we can even get Lucas some kind of help. I\u2019d hate to think that he was aiming to kill you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Joe interrupted quickly, \u201cI don\u2019t honestly think that Lucas was intending to kill me. At least I hope he wasn\u2019t. I think he was probably more surprised than I was, that he even hit me with the rock. I think he meant to hit Cochise and cause him to run away with me or maybe throw me off, but to kill me? No. But that doesn\u2019t change the way I feel, I still hate him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood to his feet and walked back to the window gazing out before turning and facing his father again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026I didn\u2019t get to feeling this way overnight, I\u2019ve felt this way for a long time. What he did to me this time, he did to all of us. I saw how worried you were, I know how scared Adam and Hoss were, even Hop Sing. I can\u2019t forgive Lucas for hurting my family like that, do you understand?\u201d Joe said, his voice near pleading with his father for tolerance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon, I\u2019d be lying if I said that I\u2019ve never hated anyone in my lifetime. I have. I\u2019m not proud of the fact, for hate can destroy a man. It corrodes a man\u2019s heart and suffocates a man\u2019s soul. Hate can turn a good man into someone who is just as bad as the man who was hated. I\u2019ve been almost to that place son, and it\u2019s not a place that I\u2019d ever want to return to; and I\u2019d not like to see you go down that same road,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben moved to stand close to Joe as they both watched out the window at the activities that were going on in the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet it go son. Please?\u201d Ben gently turned his son around to face him and drew him into a warm embrace. \u201cIt\u2019s not worth dying and going to hell for, because if you don\u2019t let it go, it could send you there, you don\u2019t want that now, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head back and forth, his damp cheek brushing against his father\u2019s chest. \u201cNo sir,\u201d he whispered. \u201cBut how?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me go see Roy, maybe he can take some sort of action against Lucas and Timmy that could put a stop to their harassment once and for all, without either of you getting hurt again,\u201d suggested Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right Pa. I\u2019ll let you do it your way. But do I have to go back to school on Monday? There\u2019s only two months left in this term and you promised me I could quit after this year, why can\u2019t I just quit now?\u201d questioned Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought you said that you wanted to go back to school, why have you changed your mind?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed the lump in his throat and looked up at his father. \u201cI\u2026I only wanted to go back so I could\u2026could\u2026\u201d Joe hung his head in shame, half-afraid to speak his words aloud, for they had suddenly frightened him. \u201cSo I could start a fight with Lucas and make him\u2026pay for what he did,\u201d Joe whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s thick brows raised up slightly as he studied his son\u2019s face. \u201cI see,\u201d he said calmly. \u201cAnd now?\u201d He tilted Joe\u2019s chin upward so that Ben could study Joe\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t wanna\u2026what I was planning to do was wrong\u2026I know that and\u2026I\u2019m sorry, Pa,\u201d sniffed Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pulled Joe into his arms and held him closely. \u201cI\u2019m glad you changed your mind son, very glad.\u201d Ben raised Joe\u2019s chin a second time and smiled, \u201cbut I think you should go back. You have to face him, both of them, at some time. It won\u2019t do you any good to hide from them\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHide? I ain\u2019t hiding from them, Pa\u2026I just don\u2019t want to have a confrontation with them. I just told ya why!\u201d Joe said anxiously as he pulled free of Ben\u2019s embrace and backed up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I didn\u2019t mean it that way, I don\u2019t want you to hide from him, but you need to be in school, to finish. You cannot allow someone like Lucas Tatum to stand in your way of finishing something as important as your education. I want you go back to school, I want you to finish out the term, and I do not want you to allow those boys to prevent you from doing what you know is right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took a deep breath and sighed, looking up at his father with a slight smile on his face. \u201cI guess if I didn\u2019t show up after all of this, he would think I\u2019m afraid of him. But I\u2019m not, I won\u2019t ever be afraid of Lucas Tatum or his side-kick, Timmy, no matter how many times I get my butt whipped by them, they\u2019ll never make me afraid,\u201d stated Joe with determination.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben cupped the back of Joe\u2019s neck and lovingly pulled the boy back into his arms. \u201cThat\u2019s the way, Joe,\u201d he laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Monday morning came sooner than what Joe had hoped. As he hauled himself up from his warm bed, his thoughts went back over what he and his father had talked at length about. He still hated Lucas and Timmy, though after sharing with his father why he hated the two boys, Joe\u2019s hatred had seemed less intense than before. He had promised his father that he would not do anything to evoke a fight with the pair and his goal was to keep that promise. So, it was with grim determination that Joe gathered with his family at the breakfast time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Pa\u2026Adam, Hoss,\u201d smiled Joe as he took his seat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMornin\u2019 Short Shanks,\u201d mumbled Hoss whose mouth had just been stuffed with a large bite.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMornin\u2019 Joe,\u201d smiled Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon,\u201d Ben smiled, \u201cyou all set for today?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs ready as I\u2019ll ever be, I reckon,\u201d Joe replied as he slid into his seat and glanced around the table at his family. \u201cI plan on ignoring both Lucas and Timmy,\u201d stated Joe proudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good, I just hope they let ya,\u201d muttered Hoss between bites.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s face suddenly took on a look of apprehension. \u201cWhat do you mean by that?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothin\u2019, I just figure that they might try backin\u2019 ya up against a wall\u2026\u201d Hoss snickered and then continued, \u201cand knowin\u2019 ya temper, it ain\u2019t likely that you\u2019ll back down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d snapped Ben in a deep tone of voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right, Pa,\u201d Joe interrupted, scowling at his brother. \u201cFor your information, Hoss, I promised Pa that I wouldn\u2019t let them dog me into a fight, and I aim on keeping that promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced at Adam who had his head down as if inspecting something on his plate and then met Joe\u2019s scowling glare. \u201cI sure \u2018nough hope they don\u2019t short shanks, but trust me, they\u2019ll make it next to impossible for ya to keep that promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced at his father, suddenly worried that what Hoss had told him, might prove to be true. Ben was quick to pick up on his son\u2019s doubts and hurried to reassure him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, you just avoid that pair as much as possible. I\u2019ll have a talk with Roy this morning and we\u2019ll see what can be done about what happened. As it stands, right now, it\u2019s just your word against theirs, and I have to agree with Hoss some, they might try to start something, but I have faith in you that you will keep your promise,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe returned the smile, \u201cI will Pa, you can depend on me\u2026no more fights with those two.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The morning seemed to pass without incident, much to Joe\u2019s relief. The only thing that bothered him were the times that he had caught Lucas staring at him. On more than one occasion, Joe had turned and seen both Lucas and Timmy whispering together and twice he felt as if they were laughing at him behind his back. Joe felt the old feeling of hate returning and tried to do as he had promised his father and ignore the pair. It seemed to work too, until the noon break.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had slipped off to the outhouse and was just rounding the corner of the schoolhouse when he felt hands grab him and sling him to the ground. \u201cHey Cartwright,\u201d sneered Lucas, \u201chow\u2019s the head?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stayed down. He deemed it in his best interest not to make any sudden moves. \u201cJust what do you know about my head?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas and Timmy swapped glances and then began laughing. \u201cOh, don\u2019t try to be coy with us, Little Joe,\u201d Lucas taunted. \u201cYou know happened to you, and you know who did it,\u201d he jeered. \u201cThanks for not rattin\u2019 on me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe felt his anger slowly begin to simmer as he stood to his feet and dusted off his trousers. \u201cI had my reasons,\u201d he proclaimed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas moved closer to Joe until he stood nose to nose with the shorter boy. \u201cWell, whatever they were, thanks, ya saved my hide. I owe ya one, Cartwright.\u201d Lucas\u2019 smile was lopsided as he glanced over his shoulder at Timmy, winking at his companion and then watched as Joe started to leave. Lucas grabbed a hold of Joe\u2019s shoulder and spun him back around.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said thanks,\u201d he muttered, his smile gone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do for you, and you don\u2019t owe me a damn thing,\u201d Joe snapped back wrenching his shoulder from the vise like fingers. \u201cJust stay the hell away from me from now on or else\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr else what?\u201d Lucas turned to Timmy, the smile, more a smirk, returning to distort his face. \u201cYa hear that Tim, Cartwright here is threatening me?\u201d laughed Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa scared?\u201d Timmy questioned his friend, moving to stand with Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf Cartwright? Ya gotta be kiddin\u2019, it\u2019s the other way \u2018round; he\u2019s afeared of me! Ain\u2019t ya Cartwright?\u201d laughed Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was fighting to control his quickly rising temper. He\u2019d love nothing better than to knock the smirk of the other boy\u2019s face, but he had promised his father. Joe took a deep breath to calm himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThink that if you want to Lucas, it makes no never mind to me,\u201d Joe said at last, turning and making his way to the front of the schoolyard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timmy glanced at Lucas and noted the shocked expression on his friend\u2019s face. \u201cYa just gonna stand there and let him talk to ya like that? Ain\u2019t ya gonna pound him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Lucas said nothing, Timmy pushed onward. \u201cYa scared of him, ain\u2019t ya? I mean, he\u2019s mad \u2018nough to rip out ya heart, any fool can see that, just by lookin\u2019 at\u2019em. Ya scared.\u201d Timmy started laughing out loud, angering Lucas to the point that he turned and shoved his fist into Timmy\u2019s face, bloodying the boy\u2019s nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll show ya who\u2019s scared.\u201d Lucas started running toward Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe who was no longer paying attention to the two behind him, was caught totally unaware as Lucas plowed into his back and sent him sprawling into the dirt for the second time. Joe felt the air forced from his lungs as he hit the hard ground. He groaned and tried to get up, but was stopped as he felt the tip of Lucas\u2019 boot meet with his mid-section. The sharp pain caused Joe to inhale deeply, filling his deflated lungs and he rolled away from the offending boot before Lucas could inflect more damage to his body. Quickly he was on his feet, his arm pressed across his stomach as he backed up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTimmy thinks I\u2019m scared of ya, but ya know better, don\u2019t ya Cartwright?\u201d shouted Lucas, his fingers doubled up to make fists as he danced around Joe who was still struggling to bring his breathing under control.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa gonna fight me, or just stand there?\u201d Lucas dared, confused by the fact that Joe was making no attempt to hit back. Quickly Lucas dashed forward and swung his fist at Joe, but Joe, seeing the move, jumped back just in time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, Cartwright, ya chicken?\u201d taunted Lucas, his voice reaching a new level as he swung again and missed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe couldn\u2019t help but smile. The shocked look on Lucas\u2019 face was something that he had never seen before. Joe felt his own anger slowly begin to dissipate as Lucas took another swing at him, missing for the third time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe started to giggle, which only served to deepen the scowl on Lucas\u2019 face and give cause for the other boy\u2019s anger to boil over. Without warning, Lucas dove at Joe, and nearly succeeded in knocking both of them to the ground. Joe\u2019s arms flew upward just in the nick of time and as Lucas came at him, Joe\u2019s hands were able to shove the flying boy off of him. Lucas landed with a heavy thud to the ground, the air expelled from his lungs as he lay face down in the dirt, groaning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of laughter reached the ears of the one who struggled to his feet. As he raised his head and looked, the other children had made a circle about him and stood over his heaving body, mocking him. Some boys were groaning, girls were pointing and making light of his situation. Anger forced Lucas to his feet and he shoved aside the ones closest to him as his eyes raked the crowd for the one who had humiliated him in front of everyone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE CARTWRIGHT!\u201d he screamed loudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, who was nearly to the front of the building, turned to stare at the angry boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019LL MAKE YA PAY FOR THIS! YA JUST WAIT!\u201d shouted Lucas who was brushing the dust from the front of his shirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe said nothing as he turned and went back inside. Once out of sight of everyone, Joe clutched his stomach and groaned. His mid-section hurt like blazes, but he would never allow Lucas to see. For an instance, the boy\u2019s words pierced Joe\u2019s thoughts as he recalled another time that Lucas had sworn he would get even with him. It had happened too, when Joe had least expected it, it happened and that time, it had nearly cost him his life. He would have to be careful, watch his back and stay alert to everything that was going on around him. Suddenly Joe hoped that his father had already spoken to the sheriff and that by the time he got home, Ben would have some good news for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The remainder of the day past without further incident and for that, Joe was relieved. When Miss Jones dismissed class for the day, Joe\u2019s nerves were about shot. When he spied his father waiting for him under the shade of the old oak tree, he was more relieved than he cared to admit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi son. I was in town and thought I\u2019d wait and ride home with you,\u201d greeted Ben as Joe joined his father. \u201cHope you don\u2019t mind?\u201d Ben said as his eyes followed Joe\u2019s tormentors across the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned to follow his father\u2019s gaze and then quickly looked up at his father. Ben was smiling at him and Joe returned the gesture.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, to be honest, I\u2019m sort of glad you\u2019re here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, I was afraid you might think that I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s all right, Pa. I know what you are doing\u2026and thanks,\u201d smiled Joe as he swung his leg across Cochise\u2019s back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes danced with pleasure. \u201cAny problems today?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe cast a final glance over at Lucas and Timmy who were standing together beneath a shade tree. \u201cA little,\u201d he confessed and then smiled at his father whose face had suddenly taken on a worried expression.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI didn\u2019t start anything if that\u2019s what you\u2019re so worried about. They tried to jump me, in fact, they shoved me down, but I didn\u2019t even take a swing at either of them\u2026honest, Pa. And when I wouldn\u2019t fight Lucas, he got so mad, he punched Timmy.\u201d Joe laughed in earnest this time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry Pa,\u201d he said, sobering. \u201cBut it was funny, ya should\u2019ve seen the surprised look on Timmy\u2019s face!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe thought it best to omit the part about the threat that Lucas had made to him. He didn\u2019t see any sense in worrying his father more, Ben, had worried enough about him during the time that he had been in a coma and to cause him worry now was senseless. Maybe this time, Lucas was just running off at the mouth. At least Joe hoped that was all there would be to it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, did ya talk to Roy about what we discussed earlier?\u201d Joe asked when they were nearly home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pulled Buck to a halt and motioned for Joe to do the same. He waited until Joe was along side of him and then pushed back his hat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I did talk to Roy. Unfortunately, it was as I suspected, Roy said that there wasn\u2019t much he could do about it, except talk to those two. And he said that he would,\u201d Ben noticed the quick change that swept across his son\u2019s face and hurried to finish.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon, Roy said that as it stood right now, it would only be your word against theirs. That\u2019s not much to go\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I saw them, both of them were standing right over me\u2026remember\u2026I told you I looked up and Lucas was laughing at me\u2026he\u2026\u201d Joe suddenly could not talk, it was as he feared, Lucas Tatum was going to go unpunished for nearly killing him. Joe tried to swallow, his eyes stung with unshed tears and he quickly wiped them away before his father could see them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt ain\u2019t fair, Pa\u2026they\u2019re going to get away with it. Well, it won\u2019t happen, I promise you that, I\u2019ll get my chance, you just wait and see!\u201d barked Joe in a hoarse voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe jerked his pinto around and kicked hard at Cochise\u2019s sides, making the horse to bolt into action as Joe headed for home at a full gallop. Ben watched as his son distanced himself from the spot where they had stopped. He understood his son\u2019s frustrations, he had felt the same way after talking to Roy and that was the main reason why he had deemed it necessary to meet his son after school.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was worried as he gently nudged Buck forward. He had seen the angry glares in the eyes of the two boys who had made it their mission in life to make his son miserable. The anxious father could understand Joe\u2019s hatred of the pair, in some small way, he hated the boys as well, for all the hurt and pain that had been inflected on their lives. Yet he judged them not, for they were only boys in his eyes, reasoned Ben. It was up to the sheriff to get things straightened out and Ben prayed hard that Roy would do just that, for in the back of his mind, Ben feared that another confrontation was nearing. This time, Joe might not be so lucky, and worse, what if Joe succeeded in his quest to satisfy his own brewing hatred? Ben shook his head to free himself from the dark thoughts that had plagued him all day long. He best keep his eyes opened for trouble and watch his son closely, he didn\u2019t like the idea that Joe might be caught unaware or that retaliation might be his son\u2019s undoing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For the rest of the week, Joe stewed about the situation. Nothing further happened at school, Lucas and Timmy had kept their distance. The fact that each day, one or the other of his family members met Joe might have served as a deterrent to the other two, who watched silently from across the schoolyard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll catch him, don\u2019t ya worry,\u201d muttered Lucas softly as he watched Joe ride off with his middle brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey can\u2019t protect him all the time. I\u2019ll figure something out; you just wait and see. Come on, let\u2019s see where they go.\u201d Lucas untied the reins from around the hitching post and mounted up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere we goin\u2019?\u201d asked Timmy, following after his friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI dun told ya, we\u2019re goin\u2019 to follow them. I have an idea,\u201d Lucas said as an evil smirk crossed his face. \u201cThe Cartwrights always go into town on Saturday for supplies. With any luck, Little Joe will be home alone tomorrow and we can take him then. I owe him big time, and I aim to make him pay!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timmy was smiling broadly, \u201cHow? What\u2019cha goin\u2019 to do to him?\u201d he asked excitedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t rightly know yet, we\u2019ll have\u2019ta wait and see if he stays behind. If\u2019n he does, I might just slip inta the barn and\u2026hey\u2026I know\u2026I\u2019ve got some horse tonic that my Pa uses on his mares when they\u2019re delivering\u2026it\u2019s pretty powerful\u2026I\u2019ll give his ole pinto enough to make that animal really, really sick. Maybe even enough to kill him; that would serve Cartwright right for humiliating me in front of everyone. You know how much he thinks of that animal!\u201d laughed Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw geeze, Lucas, I hate to hurt or kill that animal. He ain\u2019t dun nothin\u2019 to us\u2026why not just beat the stuffin\u2019s outta Little Joe?\u201d asked Timmy, as he worried about Cochise\u2019s well being.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas twisted his head around and glared at his buddy. \u201cI\u2019m tired of stompin\u2019 Joe\u2019s butt, it ain\u2019t even fun no more. I\u2019d rather get him back by makin\u2019 him loose somethin\u2019 he loves, like that dang horse of his\u2019n,\u201d growled Lucas. \u201cHe thinks just cause his pa\u2019s rich, that he\u2019s better\u2019n the rest of us, well, by the time that I finish with that horse, ain\u2019t no horse doctor gonna get him well enough for Cartwright to ever ride again. Now shut up and let\u2019s go!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas and Timmy followed at a distance until they were sure that Hoss and Joe were headed home. \u201cLet\u2019s go on home, ain\u2019t no use followin\u2019 them anymore. We\u2019ll slip over to the Ponderosa early in the mornin\u2019 and see who goes into town and who stays. If\u2019n Little Joe has to stay, we\u2019ll be able to get to that pinto without much trouble,\u201d Lucas ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI gotta get home anyway. I\u2019m already late and my old man will have my hide if\u2019n I don\u2019t get my chores dun for dark. I\u2019ll meet ya at your place first light,\u201d called Timmy as he waved good bye to Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be late!\u201d Lucas shouted over his shoulder, \u201cOr I\u2019ll pound your hide instead of Joe\u2019s!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By daybreak, Lucas and Timmy were well hidden in the loft above the stalls and sank back into the thick hay as the barn door was pushed opened. \u201cShh\u2026\u201d motioned Lucas to Timmy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see why I can\u2019t go into town too,\u201d they heard Joe complaining to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I\u2019ve already told you, I think it best that you stay here. Besides, I thought you wanted to be here when Hoss and Adam brought those new mustangs down from the hills. They left early this morning and should be back by dinnertime,\u201d Ben explained as he began hitching the team.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do, but Pa\u2026I wanna go with you to talk to Roy again. I still don\u2019t understand why he can\u2019t arrest Lucas and Timmy,\u201d grumbled Joe as he handed his father\u2019s saddle up to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas and Timmy swapped smiles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve already explained it son,\u201d Ben said, turning to rest a reassuring hand on his son\u2019s shoulder. \u201cRoy made it clear that it was your word against theirs. Unless they confess, there is nothing right now that can be done. Look Joe, I understand how you feel\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo you don\u2019t,\u201d Joe said, \u201cI nearly died\u2026all because of them. I know they did it, they know they did it and so do you…and it makes me angry that nothing can be done about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe had badgered him all morning about going into town with him and Ben\u2019s patience was beginning to wear thin and it showed on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, please, I hate to see you so upset, but Roy said to give it time. If the boys are guilty, as you say, they will try something else. And we\u2019ll be ready for them. I promise Joe, you have nothing to fear from those two.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFEAR!\u201d shouted Joe, \u201cI don\u2019t fear them, I HATE them!\u201d Joe turned and ran back to the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed deeply and led the team from the barn. Hop Sing was coming from the kitchen as Ben looped the reins over the hitching post.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNumber three son, not verily happy this morning,\u201d muttered Hop Sing as he approached Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, and it\u2019s understandable. Please Hop Sing, keep an eye on him for me while I\u2019m in town, will you?\u201d Ben said in a voice that sounded much like a plea.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI watch boy, keep him busy\u2026work good for troubled soul\u2026boy need to work off anger\u2026not good to stew,\u201d nodded the faithful servant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled and clasped the shoulder of the smaller man. \u201cThank you Hop Sing, I won\u2019t be long. I should be home by the time that Adam and Hoss get here with those mustangs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben climbed into the wagon and turned the team around. In minutes he was gone and Hop Sing had entered the dimly lit barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two boys, who had been hiding in the loft, were unaware that the small Chinaman had slipped quietly into the barn. They were both standing in the stall with Joe\u2019s pinto. Timmy was holding the animal\u2019s head up while Lucas was trying to force the horse\u2019s mouth opened so that he could pour the bottle of tonic into Cochise\u2019s mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cochise tossed his head, forcing Timmy to lose his grip on his halter. The animal jerked sideways, hitting Lucas\u2019 arm and causing him to drop the bottle of tonic and spill it\u2019s contents onto the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDamnit, Timmy,\u201d muttered Lucas, \u201ccan\u2019t ya do nuthin\u2019 right?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t my fault,\u201d snapped Timmy, glowering at his companion. \u201cThis stupid horse won\u2019t hold still.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026what you boys doin\u2019 to Mister Joe\u2019s horse?\u201d shouted Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas and Timmy stopped dead in their tracks, startled by the sound of another voice. Quickly the pair stepped from the stall. When Lucas saw that it was only the Cartwright\u2019s house servant, he smiled at Timmy and winked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s it to ya, Chinaman?\u201d growled Lucas as he took a step toward Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing remained where he stood, undaunted by the boy\u2019s threatening move.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou get \u2018way from that animal\u2026I tell Lit\u2019tle Joe\u2026he\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2026what? Little Joe won\u2019t do nuthin\u2019,\u201d smirked Timmy moving closer to Lucas\u2019 side as the pair took another step closer to Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This time Hop Sing was forced to step backward as the pair advanced on him. Lucas and Timmy continued to push Hop Sing back until he had gone as far as he could. His back was pressed against the back wall where he was hidden in the dark shadows that filled nearly every corner of the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The first punch to his mid-section doubled Hop Sing over. The second punch was to the back of his neck, causing him to stumble and fall face down into the dirt. Timmy raised his foot and stomped the middle of Hop Sing\u2019s back, making him groan loudly. His moaning caused Timmy and Lucas to laugh out loud as they continued their assault on the smaller man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas hauled Hop Sing up, onto his feet and held his arms behind his back. \u201cGet that rope, quick. Let\u2019s tie him up,\u201d ordered Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timmy grabbed a short piece of leather strap and tossed it to Lucas. While Lucas tied Hop Sing\u2019s hands behind his back, Timmy grabbed the rope and formed a noose on one end. He quickly slipped it over Hop Sing\u2019s neck and pulled the rope taunt, tying the other end to a nearby post.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas grabbed two crates and stacked one on top of the other. \u201cHurry up, help me get him up here,\u201d he barked at Timmy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took both boys to lift Hop Sing onto his feet and stand him on the top crate. Hop Sing staggered slightly but quickly steadied himself. Lucas and Timmy started laughing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBetter be careful there Chinaman, ya might stumble and fall off. Hate to see that happen, wouldn\u2019t you, Timmy?\u201d taunted Lucas as he cast hate filled eyes at his friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure would. Say, Lucas, what\u2019cha gonna do now?\u201d questioned Timmy. \u201cYa ain\u2019t really gonna hang\u2019em, are ya?\u201d he asked with a worried voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not? He\u2019s just a Chinaman, ain\u2019t no good to no one, is he?\u201d laughed Lucas as he shook the crates where Hop Sing stood. \u201cMaybe we\u2019ll make Little Joe come out here and watch, I heared tell, him and this here chink was best of friends.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t bargain for no hangin\u2019 Luke,\u201d Timmy stammered. \u201cThat\u2019s murder and they can hang ya for murder!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa ain\u2019t backin\u2019 out are ya? I thought ya wanted to get back at Cartwright for what he done to me?\u201d snapped Lucas as he stood nose to nose with Timmy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure Luke, but we cain\u2019t hang the Chinaman\u2026Let\u2019s kill the horse instead\u2026cain\u2019t hang for that\u2026\u201d muttered Timmy, suddenly worried that Lucas would go through with his new plan.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026ya chicken head\u2026I ain\u2019t gonna really hang the chink, but Cartwright don\u2019t know that. He made his brags that he wasn\u2019t afraid of us, but I bet I can change his mind. Call him out here, I\u2019ll show ya,\u201d laughed Lucas as he slipped his arm about Timmy\u2019s shoulder and guided him to the barn door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas glanced over his shoulder at Hop Sing whose face wore a look of sheer terror, and then laughed. \u201cGo get Cartwright, and tell him to come into the barn\u2026tell him I have a surprise for him,\u201d gleamed Lucas as he shoved Timmy out into the sunlight. \u201cHurry up!\u201d he ordered as he slipped back into the shadows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timmy took a deep breath and ran to the front door. He pounded several times before Joe finally answered his knocking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat the?\u201d stammered Little Joe, surprised to see Timmy standing in his doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa best come to the barn, quick like\u2026Lucas has somethin\u2019 for ya,\u201d he said and then turned and ran toward the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe never hesitated but quickly followed Timmy, who had disappeared into the barn. Joe slowed down as he neared the door half expecting to be pounced on the minute he stepped inside. He eased slowly though the opening and stopped, allowing his eyes to adjust to the dim light.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know you\u2019re in here, Lucas. Show yourself,\u201d Joe called from the doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLil\u2019tle Joe, watch out, ohhh\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe recognized the voice of his family\u2019s trustworthy servant. \u201cHOP SING!\u201d shouted Joe as he rushed toward the sound of the Chinaman\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stopped suddenly, staring wildly at the scene in front of him. Hop Sing\u2019s hands were bound tightly behind him as he stood motionlessly atop two crates which had been stacked on top of each other. Joe cringed as he spied the noose that had been tightened about Hop Sing\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t move Hop Sing,\u201d cried Joe as he stepped closer to the crates.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSTOP RIGHT THERE, CARTWRIGHT!\u201d shouted Lucas as he stepped from the shadows, Timmy close on his heels. Lucas, who was nearer to the crates than Joe, placed his hand on the top box and shook it gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing began to sway, his feet sought a sure footing as the sound of Lucas\u2019 laughter filled the barn. \u201cDon\u2019t come any closer Little Joe,\u201d ordered Lucas, a nasty looking smirk on his face. \u201cYou do, and I push this crate out from under your friend here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, fear for Hop Sing plainly etched onto his face, stopped where he was. \u201cOkay, okay,\u201d he stammered as Lucas shook the crate again. \u201cJust don\u2019t hurt him.\u201d Joe glanced up and saw the fear in the almond shaped eyes that stared down at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want?\u201d Joe barked at Lucas. \u201cWhy are you doing this to him?\u201d demanded Joe, watching Lucas carefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas turned to Timmy, \u201cGet over here and put your hand on this crate. If Cartwright makes a move, shove the box out from under the chink,\u201d ordered Lucas. Timmy glanced up and the man with the noose around his neck and then at his friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLuke\u2026\u201d he stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDO IT!\u201d ranted Lucas as he grabbed Timmy by the shirtsleeve and yanked him over to the stack of crates. Timmy had no other recourse but to do as ordered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas moved around the boxes and faced Joe. \u201cNow then Little Joe,\u201d he said, adding emphasis\u2019s to the nickname. \u201cI heard ya braggin\u2019 to ya pa that ya weren\u2019t scared of me. I bet I can prove ya wrong,\u201d tempted Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t scare me Tatum,\u201d responded Joe, his anger and hate plainly etched into his face and gleaming from his hazel eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas took a step backward and kicked out at the bottom crate. The box moved several inches, causing the color to drain from Joe\u2019s face. Hop Sing wobbled about on the top box as it teetered precariously about.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSTOP!\u201d screamed out Joe, seeing the terrified look on his servant\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas laughed loudly, fueled by the sight of fear that spread itself across Joe\u2019s face as well as the Chinaman\u2019s.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThought ya said ya wasn\u2019t afeared of me?\u201d teased Lucas. \u201cBut you should see the look on your face,\u201d he laughed and pointed at the expression that Joe wore.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not, I already told you that, but what\u2019s that got to do with him?\u201d Joe pointed to Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s my pawn, I can make you do anything, or say anything I want you to. Cause ya know I\u2019ll kick this box right out from under him, and that makes you afraid of me, don\u2019t it Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced up at Hop Sing. Hop Sing was shaking his head no.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo not be afraid, Lil\u2019tle One, Hop Sing not afraid to die,\u201d muttered Hop Sing as he smiled at Little Joe. \u201cBad boys, they only say they hang Hop Sing, they no have courage enough to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas turned dark, angry eyes toward the Chinaman, \u201cOh yeah!\u201d he shouted as he kicked the bottom box a second time. This time the box scooted more than halfway out from under the top crate. The crate on top dipped forward, the noose tightened considerably around Hop Sing\u2019s neck and he was forced to step backward to balance himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSTOPIT!\u201d yelled Joe as he made a dive at Lucas.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas saw Joe coming at him and spun around to avoid the charge. He didn\u2019t move fast enough and when Joe plowed into him; both boys tumbled to the ground in a heap. Joe doubled up his fist and punched Lucas in the face. Stunned by the power behind the fist, Lucas scrambled to get away. As he pulled free from the weight of Joe\u2019s body on his, Timmy moved between his friend and Joe and shoved Joe backward. Joe stumbled into the crates, knocking the top box into the floor as he fell backward onto his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From the ground, Joe watched Hop Sing\u2019s eyes begin to bulge as his body swayed back and forth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d screamed Joe as he made a dive at Hop Sing\u2019s legs in an effort to take the pressure off the man\u2019s neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timmy stared in horror at the scene in front of him. His eyes instantly filled with tears as he turned and bolted from the barn. Lucas who sat in a heap on the ground, stared opened mouthed and then suddenly began to laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHELP ME!\u201d screamed Joe. \u201cYA GOTTA HELP ME, I CAN\u2019T HOLD HIM UP! PLEASE!\u201d bellowed Joe as the tears flowed in a stream down his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Outside, Ben, who had forgotten something he needed, rounded the corner of the barn and had jumped to the ground when Timmy all but ran him over in his frightened attempt to distance himself from the horror scene taking place within the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa,\u201d said Ben, catching the boy with his opened arms as Timmy tried to run passed. \u201cTake it easy, boy,\u201d Ben said, as he held tightly to the frightened youth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa gotta help him, ya gotta help him!\u201d Timmy wailed loudly as he pointed to the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCalm down,\u201d Ben ordered, shaking the young man gently. \u201cHelp who? What\u2019s wrong?\u201d he demanded, suddenly recognizing Timmy as one of the boys who had caused Joe so much misery. Ben\u2019s eyes drifted to the barn door. \u201cAnswer me!\u201d he shouted, suddenly fearful for his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn the barn\u2026he hung him\u2026!\u201d wept Timmy, pointing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s heart leapt into his throat; his heart began pounding within his chest. Ben\u2019s hand released the boy and he ran into the barn, stopping suddenly at the sight of Hop Sing hanging from the rafters, his young son clinging to his servant\u2019s legs in an effort to save the man from choking to death.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDEAR GOD!\u201d yelled Ben as he grabbed Hop Sing\u2019s swaying body in one strong arm while he pulled his knife from his pocket and hacked away at the rope.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe allowed his father to take the weight from his arms and turned his wrath on Lucas. \u201cI\u2019ll kill ya for this!\u201d he screamed at Lucas and charged the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Fist flew from all directions; the two boys rolled over and over on the ground as Joe pounded away at the boy who had earned Joe\u2019s hatred. Joe was relentless, his anger, his fear and his hate had taken precedence over his thinking and no amount of begging and pleading from his adversary could stop the onslaught of flying fists.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d shouted Ben as he lowered Hop Sing to the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing was trying to suck in large amounts of air to fill his burning lungs. He lay at in a heap at Ben\u2019s feet, clinging tightly to the sleeve of Ben\u2019s shirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStop\u2026boy\u2026he not\u2026kill\u2026other\u2026boy\u2026\u201dpleaded Hop Sing as he struggled to voice his fear to his employer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH! STOP SON!\u201d Ben shouted a second time. \u201cYOU\u201dRE GOING TO KILL HIM!\u201d Ben was struggling to grab at Joe\u2019s arms that had tightened about the neck of the other boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe used one hand and pushed Ben away as he spun Lucas around to face his father and Hop Sing. He tightened his arm about Lucas\u2019 neck to the point that breathing was almost impossible for the frightened youth. His terrified eyes found Ben\u2019s as they filled with tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucas\u2019 hands gripped Joe\u2019s arms but were unable to pull free.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMake him stop, please\u2026he\u2019s gonna kill me!\u201d begged Lucas, his voice cracked and hoarse by the vise like grasp that held his neck tightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stopped, afraid to move any closer to his son, whose face had taken on a look of malice. \u201cJoe,\u201d Ben said in a softer tone. \u201cLet him go son, you\u2019re choking him to death,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s breathing was labored; his entire body trembled with hate and when he looked at his father, Ben, could see the pool of tears that streamed from his son\u2019s face. Ben took a deep breath to steady himself and stepped closer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pulled back and tightened his arm about Lucas\u2019 neck. Lucas\u2019 eyes began to spill over with tears as he looked into Ben\u2019s face. Ben could see the sheer panic in the blue depths that begged him for help.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, listen to me son\u2026it\u2019s okay now\u2026see\u2026Hop Sing is going to be fine,\u201d Ben\u2019s eyes never left his son\u2019s face as he pointed his finger in Hop Sing\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can let him up now, Joe\u2026there\u2019s no need to keep on punishing him.\u201d Ben moved closer and slowly raised his arm upward. \u201cJoe, I\u2019m here now sweetheart\u2026let me take him for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d shouted Joe, his voice thick with emotion. \u201cHe tried to kill me\u2026and then he hung Hop Sing\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease son, it\u2019s over\u2026let Roy deal with this. He\u2019s not worth you killing him\u2026Joe, if you kill him son, you\u2019ll hang\u2026please Joe, listen to me, let him go!\u201d Ben\u2019s voice had dropped to a near whisper and Joe had to finally look into this father\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The chocolate eyes that had filled with fear met the hazel, tear filled eyes of his son. Joe saw in his father\u2019s face, an expression of understanding and compassion that went straight to his heart and freed the hate that had stockpiled there. His arms relaxed enough that Lucas jerked free and scooted across the floor, out of harm\u2019s way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was quick to his son\u2019s side as Joe all but fell into his father\u2019s outstretched arms. \u201cPa\u2026\u201d wept Joe, \u201cI was so\u2026scared.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s arms embraced his son and pulled the sobbing boy to his breast. \u201cI know\u2026I know\u2026but it\u2019s all right now, it\u2019s over Joe, it\u2019s over,\u201d soothed Ben, his hand gently rubbing up and down Joe\u2019s back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe tried to kill me!\u201d shouted Lucas from across the barn. He had gotten to his feet and was trying to inch his way toward the door. He would have made it too, had it not been for the giant that blocked his way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHavin\u2019 problems in here, Pa?\u201d said Hoss, his massive hand holding tightly to the neck of Timmy\u2019s shirt. \u201cI found him outside, looked like he seen a ghost,\u201d Hoss explained as he took in the situation in the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I\u2019m glad you\u2019re here,\u201d Ben smiled, his arm still supporting his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another shadow filled the remaining space in the doorway as Adam stepped up beside of Hoss. \u201cLooks like someone\u2019s been a mite busy,\u201d he commented. He turned and smiled at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do all of this?\u201d Adam asked with a sweep of his hand at the group of men.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLil\u2019tle Joe save Hop Sing life\u2026\u201d smiled Hop Sing as he rubbed at the red mark around his neck. \u201cBad boy\u2019s try to stretch Hop Sing neck\u2026\u201d Hop Sing turned to Lucas and Timmy who were standing side by side, their faces dark with fear at what would happen to them now. \u201cVerily bad boys!\u201d Hop Sing said, shaking his fingers under their noses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you and Hoss take these two into town to the sheriff. Tell Roy to lock them up. Joe and I will be in later to explain everything. Take Hop Sing with you, I want Paul to check him out,\u201d ordered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure thing, Pa. Come on you two, get moving,\u201d Adam issued as he gently nudged the two boys forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben slipped his arm around Joe\u2019s shoulder and after Adam and Hoss had marched Lucas and Timmy outside, he forced Joe to face him. Ben felt the tremors that caused Joe to shiver and quickly pulled his son into his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the privacy of the barn, alone with his father, Joe\u2019s strength dwindled into nothing as he broke into tears and wept, his arms clinging tightly around his father. Ben felt the sting of tears in his own eyes and using only one hand, brushed them away before they had a chance to roll freely down his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Together, father and son remained for several minutes. Joe leaned heavily against his father until he stopped crying and then gently pulled away. He gulped, seeking his father\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa. I didn\u2019t mean to break my promise\u2026but when I saw what they were doing to Hop Sing\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s voice cracked slightly, \u201cI\u2026I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026it\u2019s all right, son. I know what you were trying to do\u2026you were trying to save the life of someone you loved. I can\u2019t fault you for that,\u201d whispered Ben, tipping the quivering chin upward so that he could look directly into the hazel eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did what any man would have done, myself included,\u201d smiled Ben as he brushed back the dampened sweat soaked curls from his son\u2019s brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hated him, I think I would have killed him if you hadn\u2019t come along when you did,\u201d whispered Joe. \u201cI didn\u2019t know what else to do, when he pushed me into that box and made it slip out from under Hop Sing, I\u2026I\u2026\u201d Joe gulped again, \u201cI was so afraid, Pa\u2026what if\u2026I hadn\u2019t\u2026been here\u2026Hop Sing would be dead now\u2026and I would have killed a man.\u201d Joe began to weep again and buried his face in the palms of his hands, \u201cthat scares me Pa\u2026to think I might have actually hated someone enough to kill them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you didn\u2019t Joe, you stopped before you allowed yourself to do something so horrific,\u201d Ben explained. \u201cHate can make a man do crazy things, but Joe, obviously, there was not as much hate in your heart as you first thought. If you had hated him as much as you swore you did, nothing I could have said to you would have prevented you from killing him. And Joe\u2026I don\u2019t believe for one minute that you were capable of killing anyone\u2026it just isn\u2019t in you\u2026you are much too good for that,\u201d smiled Ben. \u201cI\u2019m proud of you Joe, you fought for something, someone, you believed in and you won.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe thought briefly on his father\u2019s words and then turned to look up at Ben, smiling ever so slightly as the realization struck him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I did win this time, didn\u2019t I? For the first time ever, I took Lucas Tatum in a fair fight!\u201d giggled Joe, grinning at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Pa, but I can\u2019t help it\u2026it was ten years in the making!\u201d laughed Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd ten minutes in the ending! Now come on, we need to talk to the sheriff and make sure that those two get what\u2019s coming to them,\u201d smiled Ben as he led the way outside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once mounted up, Ben turned to his son, placing a hand on the boy\u2019s arm. \u201cJoe, I have just one question, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced sideways at his father. \u201cWhat\u2019s that, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs the score settled?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe dropped his head and then looked up from under thick lashes. \u201cI wasn\u2019t even thinking of settling the score, honest,\u201d Joe said softly. \u201cI was scared for Hop Sing\u2026I suppose that whatever happens to Lucas and Timmy, will be in the hands of the man upstairs. It\u2019s like ya said, Pa, \u2018vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord\u2019. I guess whatever He dishes out, is all right with me,\u201d smiled Joe. \u201cRevenge sort of leaves a bad taste in a man\u2019s mouth, isn\u2019t that what you\u2019ve always told us?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled, his eyes gleaming with pride for his youngest son. \u201cGlad to know you\u2019ve been paying attention. I was beginning to wonder,\u201d he laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026Pa,\u201d giggled Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 THE END<\/strong><\/p>\n

May 2003<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Epilogue:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0 Lucas Tatum and his sidekick, Timmy, pled guilty to the charges brought against them and each received a five-year prison term. They were carted off to the territorial prison to begin their sentence right away, much to the relief of those involved.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For Joe, the victory was a bittersweet one. For ten long years, the wayward boys had hounded him, taunted him and made his life a misery. Now that they were gone, Joe found the peace to be less than he had always imagined it to be. Several days after the boys had been taken away, Ben found his son alone in the barn, sitting on the very crate that had supported Hop Sing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben eased into the barn; Joe had his back to him as Ben allowed himself to sit next to Joe on box. Joe turned and smiled though the gesture never reached his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi Pa,\u201d he greeted his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello son. Mind it I join you?\u201d asked Ben, watching the expression on Joe\u2019s young face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Father and son sat in companionable silence for several moments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomething troubling you, son?\u201d Ben asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced up at his father and then lowered his head. He sighed deeply and then faced Ben a second time. \u201cHe\u2019ll be back,\u201d he said calmly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a moment, Ben looked puzzled. \u201cWho?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood to his feet and walked a few paces away. Without facing his father, he muttered softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucas Tatum, he\u2019ll be back.\u201d Joe turned at last and stared at his father. \u201cWhen they put him and Timmy in the back of the prison wagon, he whispered something to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood and moved to place his hands on either side of Joe\u2019s shoulders. He had heard the threat, too, but he hadn\u2019t been aware, until now, that Joe had also heard. Joe cast worried eyes up at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said he\u2019d get me\u2026and he will, Pa\u2026he always does when he makes that promise. It\u2019s just a matter of five years and he\u2019ll be back,\u201d Joe whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pulled Joe to him, his fingers clutching lightly at the curls that hung at the back of Joe\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFive years is a long time, son. Time has a way of changing people, maybe by that time, Lucas and Timmy will have learned that their bad behavior isn\u2019t worth a second prison term,\u201d Ben said hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope so, but knowing Lucas Tatum, I doubt it,\u201d Joe sighed, relaxing in the security of his father\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Far away in a dreary prison cell, many miles from the warmth of the Cartwright barn, Lucas Tatum lay exhausted upon the dirty, narrow cot within his cell. Timmy had just closed his eyes but quickly opened them as the sound of weeping pierced through his sleep clogged mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucas,\u201d he whispered, rising up on his elbow to look at his partner. \u201cIs that you, cryin\u2019?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t cryin\u2019 you imbecile,\u201d he shouted; though Timmy knew that his friend was lying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timmy turned over on his side and closed his eyes again, waiting for sleep to claim him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hate ya\u2026I\u2019ll get ya for this Cartwright, you\u2019ll pay with your life when I get outta here,\u201d whimpered Lucas Tatum softly, unaware that his friend had heard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Timmy cringed, he knew Lucas would keep his promise and thoughts of what his friend would do to Joe Cartwright, once their paths crossed again, chilled his blood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sleep was a long time in coming for Lucas Tatum. He lay awake long into the night, the first of many, conjuring up ways in which to seek revenge on Joe Cartwright, for it wasn\u2019t over, not yet, not by a long shot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End or is it?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Next story in The Score Series:<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Final Score<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

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

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

Summary: \u00a0A month after coming out of a coma caused by a head injury, Little Joe is full of hate for the one responsible and wants to get revenge.\u00a0 His father however, has other plans for the persons responsible for nearly killing his son.\u00a0 Can father convince son that vengeance is of the Lord and not of man?<\/p>\n

Rating: \u00a0PG \u00a0Part two of three. (12,800 words)<\/p>\n

The Score Series, links to all the stories within the series are included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":9859,"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_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[23],"tags":[14,15,17,16],"class_list":["post-12101","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drama","tag-adam-cartwright","tag-ben","tag-hoss","tag-joe","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":2288,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/feature-2.jpg?fit=338%2C338&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12102,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12102","url_meta":{"origin":12101,"position":0},"title":"The Final Score (by DebbieB)","author":"DebbieB","date":"May 1, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0 Five years after having been sent to prison, Lucas Tatum returns to seek his own revenge on Joe Cartwright.\u00a0 What he does this time is far worse than a wallop on the head; he wants to make Joe suffer for what he believes was Joe's fault.\u00a0 Joe learns\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/feature-2.jpg?fit=338%2C338&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":14375,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=14375","url_meta":{"origin":12101,"position":1},"title":"Knowing Isn’t Everything (by Robin)","author":"profrobinw","date":"January 1, 2000","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: \u00a0The 'Brain Game' Bonanza style. 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Rated:\u00a0T\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Word count:\u00a0 1351","rel":"","context":"In "Drama"","block_context":{"text":"Drama","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=23"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/guardian-angel.jpg?fit=250%2C233&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200},"classes":[]},{"id":6417,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=6417","url_meta":{"origin":12101,"position":4},"title":"A Civilized Little War (by the Tahoe Ladies)","author":"Tahoe Ladies","date":"May 4, 2001","format":false,"excerpt":"For a long time, Pam kept herself in the shadows. She was there but not as outgoing as Katie nor as flamboyant as Irish. Once, walking across a casino floor behind those two, she remarked to me that she felt a lot like Hoss: the back-up and ugly duckling of\u2026","rel":"","context":"In "Humor"","block_context":{"text":"Humor","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=4"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/hoss-poker.jpg?fit=639%2C513&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/hoss-poker.jpg?fit=639%2C513&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/04\/hoss-poker.jpg?fit=639%2C513&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":47236,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=47236","url_meta":{"origin":12101,"position":5},"title":"Anything for Family (by Lynnette Smith)","author":"Preserving Their Legacy Author","date":"May 31, 2004","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: When Richard Darvey is out for revenge on Ben Cartwright for the death of his son, Joe must decide how much he is willing to give to protect his father. 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