{"id":12112,"date":"2003-01-01T11:23:26","date_gmt":"2003-01-01T16:23:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12112"},"modified":"2025-02-27T12:07:03","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T17:07:03","slug":"be-there-a-stranger-among-us-by-debbieb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12112","title":{"rendered":"Be There a Stranger Among Us (by DebbieB)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary:<\/strong>\u00a0 When Little Joe returns from a horse sale in Carson City that did not go well for him, his family notices a difference in his personality. Not sure why Joe acts the way he does, his family struggles to understand before Joe winds up destroying himself and his family’s good name.<\/p>\n

Rated:<\/strong> PG (20,400 words)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Be There a Stranger Among Us<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, I mean what I say\u2026ya better back off, don\u2019t make me hurt ya!\u201d shouted Hoss to his younger brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe jumped to his feet from where he had fallen in the dirt after Hoss shoved him backwards. His eyes were dark with anger as he leapt at the larger man who stood in front of him. Hoss quickly stepped aside, allowing Joe to fall a second time on his face in the dirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe twisted his head around and growled angrily at Hoss, \u201cdamn you,\u201d he yelled, once again getting to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw Joe, cut it out, boy. I didn\u2019t mean what I said, I was just funnin\u2019 ya, that\u2019s all,\u201d complained the bigger of the two brothers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe dusted the dirt from his trousers and flashed a menacing look at Hoss. \u201cI don\u2019t like being called lazy!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t really mean it\u2026but ya hav\u2019ta admit, ya sure ain\u2019t been pullin\u2019 your weight around here. Ya been shuckin\u2019 your duties ever since ya got back from Carson City. And ya ain\u2019t been yourself either; ya been snappin\u2019 and growlin\u2019 like some ole mama bear. What\u2019s ailing ya, Short Shanks?\u201d Hoss ventured to inquire of his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe cast angry eyes up at Hoss. \u201cAin\u2019t nothing ailing me, why don\u2019t you mind your own business?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned in a huff, and walked to the barn. He jerked the door opened and entered the dimly lit interior, breathing a sigh of relief that the big oaf had not hit him. The angry young man grabbed his saddle and blanket and quickly saddled his horse. He swung himself up into the leather seat and giving a swift kick to Cochise\u2019s sides, tore out into the bright sunlight, barely missing his oldest brother who was just about to enter the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam jumped out of the way, startled by the sudden motion he pressed his back against the nearest post to the door. \u201cHey, slow down!\u201d he snapped, seeing that it was Joe who raced passed him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet out of the way if ya don\u2019t wanna get mowed down,\u201d barked Joe, kicking hard at his horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe was gone in a flash, leaving Adam sucking in large gulps of air to fill his lungs. Ben, who had just made his way into the yard as Joe was leaving, joined Hoss at Adam\u2019s side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat in blazes was that all about?\u201d demanded Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat boy!\u201d grumbled Adam. \u201cNearly knocked me down coming out of the barn. You would have thought the devil was after him, he knows better than to ride an animal like that!\u201d Adam was furious, his dark eyes grew darker and Ben noted the deep scowl on his oldest son\u2019s face that distorted the usual handsome features.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Pa, and Joe sure has been outta sorts since he came home. I was just funnin\u2019 him a little while ago and he turned on me somethin\u2019 quick like. Ya got any idey what\u2019s eatin\u2019 at\u2019em?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben seemed deep in thought and it was several moments before he raised his eyes and looked into the faces of his sons. \u201cNo\u2026\u201d Ben scratched his head and followed Hoss and Adam into the barn. \u201cHe hasn\u2019t said much to me at all come to think of it. He wasn\u2019t pleased that things didn\u2019t go too well at the sale, but other than that, he\u2019s been unnaturally quiet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd jumpy,\u201d added Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow so?\u201d Ben questioned as he slung his saddle over Buck\u2019s broad back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I went in to wake him this morning. He was already up and dressed. That in itself was strange, but anyway, he had his back to me, and when I called out to him, he drew down on me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s head shot up, his eyes wide, \u201cHE WHAT?\u201d stammered the surprised father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam led Sport from his stall. \u201cSure did, surprised the hell out of me, too. When I asked him what he was doing, he got all mad like and told me I\u2019d better not ever sneak up on him like that again. I was surprised that he had his gun in his room with him but I didn\u2019t question him about that, I just tried to explain that I wasn\u2019t sneaking up on him, but he just pushed his way past me and went on downstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam followed Hoss and his father from the barn and turned to mount up. \u201cI just let it drop. I know Joe well enough to know when to back off. It\u2019s like he\u2019s been itching for a fight since the night he came home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam placed his foot into the stirrup and swung his long leg across his horse\u2019s back. \u201cYou might need to have a talk with the boy, Pa, before he pushes me or Hoss too far. I\u2019ll only take so much, even if he is my brother.\u201d Adam kicked gently at Sport\u2019s ribs and tipped his hat to his father. \u201cI\u2019ll see you tonight, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSame goes for me Pa. I don\u2019t wanna hurt the kid, but enough is enough.\u201d Hoss smiled slightly and bid his father bye and followed after Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben led his mount to the hitching post and slipped the reins over the railing. His thoughts were on his younger son as he retraced his steps into the house. Adam and Hoss had both been correct, Joe had not been his usual jovial self since returning home from the horse sale over in Carson City. Joe had not gotten the amount he had hoped for from the sale of his mustangs, but it had happened before and was not something that usually pulled the boy down into a state of depression, as such seemed the case. Ben glanced at the clock, noting the hour and decided to follow along after his youngest son in hopes of getting a chance to speak with Joe in private about whatever it was that seemed to be troubling him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gazed at the horizon, his eyes hungrily searching the meadow for his son. He had ridden from one end of the grassy lowland to the far side and still had not located the boy. Ben\u2019s heart had begun to fill with worry that something might have happened to his youngest and thus the reason for Joe not to be where he had been instructed to work for the day. The cattle below grazed lazily on the spring grasses that covered the meadow in many different hues of greens and yellows. Ben\u2019s eyes racked across the heads of the small herd, catching a movement in the trees on the far opposite side. His heart, beat in relief when he spied Joe mounted on his pinto enter the clearing from the woods. He was just about ready to shout to his son when two more riders joined Joe. Ben quickly refrained from yelling and watched, unobserved by the trio on the other side of the field.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched silently as he tried to put names to the faces of the two unfamiliar looking men. Ben did not recognize either of them, but thought perhaps that they were new hands, hired by one or the other of his sons. Ben watched as the stranger smiled at his son and then turned, speaking to his partner. A minute later, the two tipped their hats at Joe, turned and rode back into the thick forest behind them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was puzzled at the exchange but waited, giving the two strangers time to distance themselves from his son, before riding out to speak with Joe. Buck stepped forward but Ben pulled suddenly back on the reins, stopping his horse from taking another step into the clearing. Joe turned his horse away from the herd and rode off in the direction of home. Ben pushed his hat back on his forehead, wondering why Joe chose that direction instead of riding on ahead to make his count of the beef grazing below.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Ben rode into the yard, he was surprised to see Slim, one of the hands, splashing water from the trough, over his head. Slim turned just as Ben dismounted, catching his boss off guard by the bruises on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSlim,\u201d Ben asked in an anxious voice, \u201cwhat in thunder happened to you?\u201d Ben moved in closer to the man\u2019s face to better examine the minor wounds. \u201cWho did this to you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Slim glanced sideways at his boss, not sure how to explain to Ben the bruises on his face. The ranch hand hem-hawed around before finding his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell?\u201d insisted Ben, helping his hired man into the tack room where first aid medications were kept for such emergencies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm\u2026Mr. Cartwright\u2026I don\u2019t rightly know how to tell ya this,\u201d began Slim nervously. \u201cI mean\u2026I suppose it was my fault\u2026not the boy\u2019s\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stopped dabbing at the cut above the man\u2019s right brow and looked straight into the gray eyes that suddenly could not meet his.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSlim, I want to know who did this? What boy?\u201d asked Ben. Surely not, Ben reasoned silently, as fear that Joseph might have been the cause for this man\u2019s bloody face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour boy, Mr. Cartwright\u2026Little Joe,\u201d stammered Slim.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT?\u201d shouted Ben, angrily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t mean to make\u2019em so mad, sir, but he just turned on me like I was nuthin\u2019 and began hittin\u2019 me. He was crazy like, Mr. Cartwright\u2026I\u2026I didn\u2019t do nuthin\u2019 to him, why I didn\u2019t even try to hit\u2019em back, honest,\u201d explained Slim. \u201cAnd then he fired me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHE WHAT?\u201d stammered Ben, not fully grasping the idea that Joe would have actually done what this man was claiming.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be agoin\u2019 now, Mr. Cartwright\u2026if\u2019n ya give me my due pay, sir,\u201d Slim moved Ben\u2019s hands away from his head and watched as the dark cloud of anger worked it\u2019s way into the darker eyes of his boss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s head shot upward. \u201cYou\u2019re not going anywhere!\u201d he growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026the boy\u2026he\u2026fired me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe boy\u2026you just wait until I get my hands on \u2018the boy\u2019! Who does he think he is?\u201d demanded Ben though he didn\u2019t really expect an answer from his hired help.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry\u2026Mr. Cartwright\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSlim, what made Joe so mad? I mean, did you say anything, or do anything\u2026not that I\u2019m blaming you, you understand. I just need to know what set him off?\u201d Ben had taken several deep breaths to bring his anger under control. He had noted the harried look on the workman\u2019s face and feared that the gentleman might think that he held him responsible for his own beating.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe came ridin\u2019 in here like a madman. Demanded that I take his horse, when I took longer than I reckon he thought was proper, he started shoutin\u2019 at me that if\u2019n I couldn\u2019t do as told, I could get my things and get out.\u201d Slim rubbed his aching jaw and shuffled his feet in the dirt, stirring up a small cloud of dust.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose I shouldn\u2019t of called him a smart aleck snot nosed kid, ya reckon?\u201d said Slim, giving his boss a crooked little grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben couldn\u2019t help but smile, \u201cknowing Joseph, probably not, but that still doesn\u2019t give him the right to do this to you. I\u2019m sorry Slim; I\u2019ll have a talk with the boy when he gets back. Did he happen to say where he was headed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe mumbled somethin\u2019 \u2018bout goin\u2019 to town. I thought it kinda strange for the boy to take off like he did, what with it being a workday and all\u2026but hey, I wasn\u2019t \u2018bout to question the kid, hell no, I was still on the ground,\u201d Slim stated, laughing lightly to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed his hand on the man\u2019s shoulder, and smiled, \u201cYou rest for awhile Slim, then, when you\u2019re up to it, you can get back to work.\u201d Ben turned and started toward the door, anger and worry written all over his face. \u201cI\u2019m sorry about this\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben mounted his horse and headed straight into town. He had to find his son and talk to the boy. Something was very much wrong and Ben was determined to get to the bottom of it before young Joseph managed to get himself into any more trouble. He had managed to anger both of his brothers plus one of the ranch hands and now, even had his father angry with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben heard the ruckus even before he reached the doors of the Bucket of Blood saloon. He hurried to the front entrance, only to be shoved aside by Nate Barker as the angry man flung wide the double swinging doors.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDadburn fool kid!\u201d he bellowed to anyone who would listen. Spying Ben, Nate turned his full attention to the senior Cartwright. \u201cDadburn fool kid,\u201d he repeated, \u201cLookit what he dun to me!\u201d shouted the angry man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had no need to be told to look; anyone within eyesight could see the swelling that was forming around the man\u2019s right eye. It was obviously that the man had been cuffed and good too.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold on a minute Nate, are you saying that Joseph did this to your face?\u201d questioned Ben, puzzled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa dang tooten he did. Ain\u2019t had no call to cuff me like this either!\u201d grumbled the other man, rubbing the side of his face. \u201cI\u2019ve a good mind to go see Sheriff Coffee and have that brat of yours tossed into the jail!\u201d Nate stuck his finger in Ben\u2019s face, shaking it vigorously, \u201cif\u2019n the boy were mine, a trip to the woodshed would do him a world of good!\u201d Nate turned his back on Ben and hurried on across the street, mumbling under his breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head, it seemed that Joseph was on a mission, and that mission was to destroy himself. Angered, Ben pushed opened one side of the twin doors and entered the saloon. His eyes opened wide at the destruction that had taken place inside the establishment. Tables were over turned, chairs rested upside down as well, a few were even missing much needed legs and broken glass lay scattered about mingling with the splinters of wood from the broken furniture.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell howdy, Ben,\u201d smirked the barkeeper. \u201cHow nice of you to drop by!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben didn\u2019t much like the tone of voice the barkeep had taken toward him, but decided that if his son had done this much damage to his place of business, Ben could hardly blame the man for being upset.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid Joseph do all of this?\u201d Ben waved his arm in the air, indicating the destruction that had been done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYap, and the way I figure it, it should cost about two-hundred dollars to fix the place.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced at the owner\u2019s hand, which was outstretched, and then into the man\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat much?\u201d scuffed Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYap, that much,\u201d the barkeep met Ben\u2019s angry glare and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sighed deeply as he reached into his pants pocket and pulled out a wad of bills and began counting them out, placing them carefully into the man\u2019s opened hand. When the exact amount had been paid, Ben folded the remainder up and shoved the bills into his pocket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAny idea where Joe might have gone?\u201d he asked humbly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope, he didn\u2019t take time to tell me, and I sure didn\u2019t take the time to ask. Look, Mr. Cartwright, it ain\u2019t none of my business\u2026but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glared at the man, he was furious with his youngest offspring and took his anger out on the man before him. \u201cYou\u2019re right!\u201d shouted Ben at the top of his lungs; \u201cit ain\u2019t none of your business!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned on his heels and stomped out of the saloon. He looked up and down the street, hoping to see Joe\u2019s horse about. Ben glanced at the sun, guessing that it was near suppertime and quickly grabbed Buck\u2019s reins and mounted up. He had decided to go home where he hoped his youngest son had decided to go, and besides, he told himself, he was hungry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss reined in their mounts and dismounting led the horses to the barn. Hoss, stopping in his tracks, allowed the air in his lungs to expel in exasperation. \u201cAdam, will ya lookit this?\u201d grumbled Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam moved in next to Hoss and stopped. He whistled softly, \u201cWhat the hell is wrong with that kid?\u201d snapped Adam, disgusted with what he was seeing. \u201cJoe knows better than to leave his horse standing in a sweat like this.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss led Chubb into his stall and quickly unsaddled his horse. He then turned to Cochise and ran his hands down the front shoulder of his brother\u2019s horse. \u201cLookit, poor animal is lathered.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDamn fool kid.\u201d Adam slung his saddle over the railing and turned to Hoss. \u201cTake care of Sport for me, will you Hoss, I\u2019ll be right back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss never got the chance to reply; Adam took off at a run for the house, throwing the door open wide as he entered. \u201cJOSEPH!\u201d shouted Adam at the top of his voice. \u201cGET YOUR BUTT DOWN HERE NOW!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe finally appeared at the top of the steps, standing only in his trousers and boots, his shirttail free from his pants and unbuttoned. \u201cWhat do you want?\u201d Joe snapped, angry for having been disturbed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam, his anger plainly showing on his face, stomped over to the bottom of the steps. \u201cGet down here, now,\u201d he said through gritted teeth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed, noted the look in his brother\u2019s eyes and slowly descended the stairs. \u201cWhat\u2019s ailing you?\u201d he asked, somewhat meekly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam placed his hand on Joe\u2019s slim shoulder and squeezed, making Joe scrunch up his face. \u201cHey!\u201d he stammered and tried to pull away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey nothing\u2026just tell me why you left a lathered horse standing unattended in the barn? You know better than that, you little fool,\u201d growled Adam, his dark ebony eyes dancing with unleashed fury.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho you calling a fool?\u201d barked Joe as he wrenched free from his brother\u2019s grasp and walked away, turning his back to his older brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grabbed Joe by the arm and spun him around, \u201cyou best listen up little boy. If Pa comes home and sees how you\u2019ve treated that horse you were always so proud of, he might not think twice about tanning your butt, I don\u2019t care if you are nineteen years old. Now get to the barn and take care of that animal,\u201d ordered Adam leading Joe to the opened door and not too gently shoving him outside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe turned the second that he felt his brother loosen his grip on his arm. He was about to open his mouth and make a smart retort, but seeing the dangerous look in the dark eyes, changed his mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, okay\u2026sorry\u2026I\u2019ll take care of him.\u201d Joe stomped off toward the barn before Adam had another chance to grumble at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss had removed Joe\u2019s saddle and was wiping the sweaty animal down by the time that Joe entered the barn. Hoss glanced up; his eyes were dark with anger and seemed to be shooting daggers at the boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced at the ground, unable to find words for his brother. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. \u201cI\u2019ll finish,\u201d he stammered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stood to his feet and propped his elbow along the lower part of Cochise\u2019s neck. \u201cTell me somethin\u2019 Joseph, what the blazes has gotten into ya?\u201d Hoss pointed at the pinto. \u201cYou\u2019ve always been crazy about this here animal, why ya doin\u2019 him this way now? Don\u2019t ya know ya could make him sick, leavin\u2019 him standin\u2019 like ya did, without so much as takin\u2019 ya saddle of\u2019em?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grabbed the blanket from his brother\u2019s large hands and began rubbing the animal where Hoss had left off. \u201cAw, I was planning on coming back out and tending to him. I just needed to do a couple of things first, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss stepped out of the way and placed his hands on his hips. \u201cYou know what Pa says\u2026\u201d he began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe jerked his head up and glared at his brother. \u201cNo, what does the old man say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 blue eyes went black with anger. He stepped to within inches of his younger brother\u2019s face and pointed his finger at Joe, shaking it under Joe\u2019s nose. \u201cJoseph, if\u2019n I were you, I\u2019d be careful about how I spoke about our father. Your just about this far from havin\u2019 that jaw of yours broken!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe tossed the blanket to the ground and balled his hands into tight fists. \u201cCome on big man, you don\u2019t scare me!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 anger at his defiant little brother had passed the boiling point. Before Joe could even bat an eye, Hoss\u2019 massive fist connected with the smaller man\u2019s jaw. Joe was knocked into the wall; his head instantly began to throb but though dazed, threw himself at his brother. Hoss caught Joe in his arms and shoved him backward, just enough to deliver a second punch to the other side of Joe\u2019s face. Joe crumbled to the ground, groaning, but refused to stay down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou oversized ox,\u201d he spat at Hoss as he lowered his head and charged into Hoss\u2019 mid-section.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss wavered slightly as Joe pushed his weight into his brother\u2019s stomach. \u201cDadburnit, Little Joe, will ya stop!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT\u2019S THE MEANING OF THIS! STOP IT THIS MINUTE!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was no denying the man behind the deep roaring voice. Both Hoss and Joe stopped fighting immediately as Ben moved to stand between his two sons. He glared first at Hoss and then turned to face Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss,\u201d Ben said, never taking his eyes off his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes sir?\u201d Hoss replied in a small voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill you kindly explain what is going on here?\u201d Ben turned back to Hoss. Joe moved to walk away, but his father grabbed his arm. \u201cYou stay right where you are, young man,\u201d ordered Ben, tightening his grip on Joe\u2019s upper arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSit!\u201d he ordered his youngest as he pointed to a box.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss, I\u2019m waiting,\u201d snapped Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm\u2026well\u2026Pa\u2026me and Adam came home a little while ago and\u2026well\u2026Cochise was standin\u2019 here all sweaty like\u2026and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I went to the house and made Joe get his lazy butt out here to care for his horse,\u201d finished Adam who had come in as Hoss was explaining about the condition of Joe\u2019s pinto.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned dark angry eyes at his youngest son. He could barely trust his voice enough to speak. \u201cGo to your room, Joseph, NOW!\u201d bellowed Ben. \u201cI will be up shortly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stood to his feet, his own anger surfacing rapidly. \u201cGo to my room? You gotta be kidding?\u201d he growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss\u2019 eyes bugged out; Adam\u2019s lower jaw went slack. He could hardly believe his ears; Joe defying their father in such a rude manner was unheard of.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stepped face to face with Joe, his body quivering with pent-up rage. In a voice so deep that it seemed non-existent, he spoke slowly, \u201cdo I look like I\u2019m joking?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s gaze never waived from his father\u2019s, which surprised both of his older brothers. Joe opened his mouth to speak, but saw the way in which Ben\u2019s lips pressed tighter together and thought better of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Without uttering a word, Joe stepped around his father and headed toward the house. Adam swapped concerned looks with Hoss and then moved to stand beside of his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you all right, Pa?\u201d he asked softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced up at Adam then Hoss, turning to look over his shoulder. \u201cJOSEPH!\u201d he shouted, running for the barn door and surprising the two brothers who scrambled to get out of their father\u2019s way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe, mounted on a roan mare that one of the hands had just tied to the hitching post, rounded the corner of the barn just as Ben stepped from it. Dust was floating down from the small cloud stirred up by the charging hooves that flew past him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben could hardly control his shaking, never in all of his life had his youngest son made him so furious. Ben was just about ready to explode, his fists were drawn up into tight knots, his breathing was labored and when he turned, his other two sons could see the anger that billowed up just beneath the surface of their father\u2019s caliginous eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d Adam said quickly, \u201cjust let him go. He\u2019ll be back home later. By then all of us would have had time to cool off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head in disgust and gave Adam a doubtful look. He turned, unable to voice his thoughts and marched to the house. Adam turned to face Hoss and noted the distressed expression on his larger brother\u2019s face. He could not refrain from placing a reassuring hand on the big fella\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTry not to worry Hoss, everything will work out, in time,\u201d offered Adam, hoping to take some of the worry from his brother\u2019s expression.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head, digging his toe into the dirt, he glanced toward the house. \u201cI don\u2019t know Adam, I ain\u2019t ever seen our Pa look so broken. He\u2019s worried sick, that\u2019s for sure\u2026and Little Joe\u2026why Adam, somethin\u2019s bad wrong with\u2019em, the way he\u2019s actin\u2019 and all. If I didn\u2019t know no better, I\u2019d think maybe\u2026naw\u2026forget it,\u201d mused Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey big guy, whatever is eating at our little brother, he better get worked out pretty soon. Pa is not going to tolerate his insolence much longer. Can you believe his nerve? I always said that, that boy had more guts than most men,\u201d Adam brushed his fingers through his hair and gave Hoss a small crooked smile. \u201cJoe sure isn\u2019t short on nerve, is he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaw, but that short fuse of his\u2019n has already started a blaze, did ya see the look in Pa\u2019s eyes when Joe asked him if he were kiddin\u2019? I dang near had a heart attack when he said that\u2026Adam\u2026\u201d Hoss hesitated briefly, \u201cI\u2019m worried about Little Joe\u2026I mean\u2026this ain\u2019t funny, what\u2019s he adoin\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know that Hoss, and I\u2019m worried too. Joe isn\u2019t his self that\u2019s for sure. I sure would like to know what happened at that sell,\u201d Adam stated, moving to close the barn door before going to the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben paced the floor; his anger had lessened somewhat since the early evening when Joe had ridden out of the yard. He pulled back the curtain that covered the window behind his desk, knowing full well that he could see nothing due to the darkness that had over taken the last rays of evening light. Ben heard himself sigh; he was worried, about Joseph.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was late when Joe rode into the yard. The moon lit the night giving Joe just the right amount of light needed to see his way to the barn. He quietly eased opened the heavy barn door and led his mount inside. Cochise nickered softly as Joe paused to scratch at the velvety softness of his pinto\u2019s nose. Sudden guilt washed over the young man and he hung his head in shame.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Cochise, I didn\u2019t mean to neglect you like I did.\u201d Joe gently ran his hands down the horse\u2019s long silky neck and leaned his head against the softness. \u201cYou are a beautiful animal, I promise you, it won\u2019t happen again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to hear that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe whirled around, pivoting on his toes until he stood face to face with his father. As he glanced up he noted that the raging anger that he had seen earlier in his father\u2019s eyes, was now gone, replaced by what could be recognized as worry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At a loss for words, Joe moved past Cochise and led the roan into the vacant stall and began removing the saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d began Ben, willing his voice to remain steady though inside of himself, he could feel the tremors that begged for release.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, look\u2026I\u2019m sorry\u2026about everything.\u201d Joe turned to face his father. \u201cI shouldn\u2019t have done what I did, I know that\u2026and I\u2019m sorry. Do we have to talk about this tonight? I\u2019m tired and I all I want now is to go to bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re sorry? Joseph, do you think that just by saying \u2018I\u2019m sorry\u2019, everything will be all right? Do you realize what all you have managed to do today? You have wreaked havoc from here to Virginia City. Please tell me what has been going through your mind!\u201d Ben stood facing his son, Joe\u2019s features barely visible in the dim glow that the moon still cast in to the doorway of the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe pushed his way past his father avoiding looking into the dark eyes that followed his every move. \u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026okay? I don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know? What kind of an answer is that, young man?\u201d snapped Ben, feeling his anger begin to surface. Perhaps his son had been right, maybe they needn\u2019t talk about this tonight, some things might better be settled after a night\u2019s rest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stepped close to Joe, who had turned his back to his father, and placed a hand on the boy\u2019s shoulder. \u201cSon, you\u2019re right, we\u2019ll talk about this in the morning. Why don\u2019t you go on in and get some rest. I\u2019ll finish taking care of things in here for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben felt the tension that had hardened the muscles across Joe\u2019s shoulder blade and gently applied pressure. He was surprised when Joe moved away from the tender touch and without another word or glance in his father\u2019s direction, walked out of the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben allowed his hand to fall heavily to his side and sighed deeply. His youngest son\u2019s behavior was still a mystery and though he had hoped to get to the bottom of whatever was causing the boy such inner turmoil, nothing had been settled this night. Ben turned to the care of the horse that Joe had ridden and quickly finished tending to the animal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silently, Ben sat on the edge of his bed and pulled his boots from his feet, rubbing away the soreness from the bottom of his soles. His mind allowed his thoughts to wander and immediately he recalled the scene in the meadow where Joe had met with the two unknown riders. Ben wondered how the strangers played into Joe\u2019s misconduct and irritating mood swings. He would question Adam in the morning about the odd characters to see if perhaps he might have hired the men and forgotten to tell him that they had been added to the payroll. The payroll! There was another thing to worry about, sighed Ben as sleep fought to claim him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMorning, Boss,\u201d greeted Slim, looking none the worse for wear. \u201cI dun got your horse saddled for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you Slim. How is that head of yours this morning?\u201d Ben questioned as he gathered Buck\u2019s reins into his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Slim nodded his head, giving Ben a crooked smile. \u201cAw, tweren\u2019t nothing Mr. Cartwright. It didn\u2019t hurt much, \u2018sides, it\u2019d take a lot more\u2019n that young buck\u2019s fist to put me down and keep me down. Don\u2019t ya worry yourself none about me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben swung into his saddle and turned Buck. \u201cWell, just see that you take it easy today. By the way, have you seen that young buck this morning?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure \u2018nough. He was up and gone bright and early\u2026stopped by to tell me that he was sorry about yesterday too, he did,\u201d smiled Slim as he moved away from Ben\u2019s horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe did?\u201d Ben was surprised to hear the news, though he shouldn\u2019t have been. Joe was a man who, once realizing his mistakes, always took the time to try to make things right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes siree, he did,\u201d beamed the ranch hand. \u201cWell, boss, I got work to do, don\u2019t wanna get fired again today,\u201d he laughed softly as he moved into the tack room and began straightening things up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa! Wait up,\u201d Adam shouted, rushing from the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had just started to nudge his horse forward when the sound of his son\u2019s deep voice reached his ears. \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing\u2019s wrong, I was just wondering if you were going into town to talk to Roy about that payroll shipment that\u2019s coming in on tomorrow\u2019s stage. We need extra men to ride guard once it\u2019s taken off the stage,\u201d replied Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s where I was headed. I plan on using some of our own men to help guard it while it\u2019s being transported out here. I\u2019ll feel better about it with our own people riding with us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a good thought, Pa. Tell Roy I said hello.\u201d Adam gave his father a flashing smile and stepped back from the horse. \u201cBe careful,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI plan to\u2026oh, Adam, by the way. You didn\u2019t happen to hire a couple of new men to help out with the herd in the north pasture did you?\u201d Ben questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNew men? No sir, I haven\u2019t hired anyone is several weeks. Didn\u2019t see any need to. Why, is something wrong Pa?\u201d Adam noted the uncertain expression that had embedded itself into his father\u2019s features.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWrong?\u201d muttered Ben, disturbed by the images of his son as he conversed with the two strangers the day before. \u201cNo, nothing\u2019s wrong, I was just wondering, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No sense in worrying Adam about his doubts until he could speak with Joe and find out first hand who the strangers were and what they had been up too.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be back by noon, son. Will you tell Hoss to have some men ready to stand guard when that payroll gets here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDone, did that,\u201d beamed Hoss as he joined Adam to bid their father goodbye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled down at his two oldest sons. He could always rely on these two, he thought to himself, comforted by their silent strength and loyalty. Suddenly the reassuring feeling vanished as Joe\u2019s face fluttered in front of his mind\u2019s eye. \u2018Joseph\u2019, his heart cried.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had spent the morning searching the north meadow for his youngest son. When his search ended up with finding nothing other than droppings, showing that a horse had passed that way, Ben turned his horse away from the small herd that grazed leisurely. Following the tracks that led in the opposite direction, Ben crept slowly along, inspecting every inch of the ground until he spied what he had been looking for. Quickly pulling his horse to a stop, Ben dismounted and surveyed the ground, being careful not to destroy the signs. It was as he suspected; Joe\u2019s horse had stopped here and had been joined by another. Ben could see where the two individuals had dismounted and moved around, leaving booted footprints in the dirt. When the tracks seemed to move clear of the area, Ben followed along on foot. Suddenly he stopped for sprawled face down in the tall grasses, nearly hidden from view lay a man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben dropped the reins and rushed to the man\u2019s still form. Gently he turned the man over. It was plain to see that the man had been shot in the chest at close range. Blood seeped from the deep hole just above the man\u2019s heart where it covered the entire front of the faded shirt that the man wore.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed his fingers to the man\u2019s neck, seeking a pulse. Much to his relief, his fingers felt the weak beating action that he had hoped to find. Ben raised the man\u2019s head just enough to rest it on his lap. The wounded man moaned in pain and slowly opened his eyes, finding the face of the man who held him tenderly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben watched as the man tried to speak his voice sounding weak and full of pain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026take it easy mister. Can you tell me your name?\u201d Ben asked as he removed his neck scarf with his free hand and stuffed it into the gashing hole that had ripped apart the man\u2019s flesh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cB\u2026Bart\u2026oh\u2026it hurts\u2026\u201d whined the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, just try to hang on.\u201d Ben glanced around him, hoping to find someone who could help him. Bart groaned and Ben felt the man\u2019s body arch slightly as pain coursed through him. When Ben glanced again into the man\u2019s face, Bart had closed his eyes, his breathing had become shallow and Ben knew that the man\u2019s time was soon to come.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBart\u2026Bart\u2026\u201d urged Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bart\u2019s eye lashes fluttered as he struggled to open his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan you tell me who did this to you? Who shot you?\u201d Ben had lowered his head. Bart had begun to mumble and his voice was so low that it was almost impossible for Ben to hear the man\u2019s words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho Bart? Who shot you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe\u2026boy\u2026\u201d stammered the dying man, his eyes closing slightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat boy?\u201d Ben pushed the man for an answer, knowing that the man would die, he needed information to take back to town with him. Something for the sheriff to go on, a name.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBart, listen to me\u2026I have to know who shot you\u2026so that the sheriff can arrest him. Try Bart\u2026try,\u201d encouraged Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bart raised his hand slowly over his head and seemed to be pointing at something in the distance. His eyes had found Ben\u2019s and Ben noted the frightened look that swallowed away the color from the irises.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJ\u2026Joe\u2026Cart\u2026wri\u2026t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His hand fell limply to the ground. Bart took his last breath, his voice faded and his head fell against the chest of the startled man who held him within his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The color drained from Ben\u2019s face. His breathing became labored as he tried to absorb the man\u2019s last words. His dark chocolate eyes stared out at nothing, while his mind brought a picture of the face of his youngest son before his blinded eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joseph? Had he heard correctly? Had the man\u2019s dying words named his son as killer?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2018NO!\u2019 screamed Ben\u2019s heart. \u2018It can\u2019t be true\u2026not Little Joe\u2026not his sweet, green eyed little impish son that he had nurtured all of his life and loved more than life itself,\u2019 wept the disheartened father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sucked in large gulps of air to fill his lungs and steady his trembling. Ben glanced down at the dead man and wondered who he had been and why had he named his youngest son as the man who had fired the shot that had ended a life. Getting slowly to his feet, Ben placed the man\u2019s head on the ground and grabbed his bedroll. Within minutes, Ben had the body securely wrapped and laid across his saddle. Ben mounted behind the corpse and turned his horse toward Virginia City. Before he had ridden less than half a mile, Ben changed directions and went instead, back to the ranch. He had to talk to Adam and Hoss, they had to find Joe and figure out what was going on.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Ben rode into the yard and guided his horse to the hitching rail, Hoss and Adam came from the barn and quickly made their way to Ben\u2019s side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s this?\u201d asked Hoss as he pulled the corner of the blanket up to see the man\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBart somebody\u2026he didn\u2019t get time to tell me his last name,\u201d replied Ben as he stared at his two sons. \u201cEither of you ever see him before?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir,\u201d answered Hoss moving to allow Adam room to look at the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe neither. How\u2019d he die?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShot at close range, bullet hit him just above the heart. Either of you seen Little Joe?\u201d Ben asked, his voice deep with foreboding.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced at Hoss and then back at his father. \u201cNo. Why, something wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis man claims that it was your brother who shot him and left him for dead,\u201d Ben stated flatly with no emotion. \u201cTake care of the body for me, will you please. I need a drink.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both young men stared at their father\u2019s broad back as he walked slumped shouldered, toward the house. Adam grabbed Buck\u2019s reins from around the post and glared at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to know what in the hell is going on around here,\u201d he muttered as he led his father\u2019s horse to the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three Cartwrights rode their horses down the middle of Virginia City\u2019s main street toward the sheriff\u2019s office. A horse bearing the body of the dead man followed behind the last horse. Ben stopped in front of the building and started to dismount just as Roy was coming from his office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell howdy there, Ben. Who do you have with you?\u201d questioned Roy, walking slowly over to the corpse that stretched across the back of the horse. He slowly lifted the blanket and studied the man\u2019s face. \u201cDon\u2019t believe I know this one. Got and idey who he is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSaid his name was Bart. He died before he was able to tell me his last name.\u201d Ben had dismounted and stood to Roy\u2019s right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGun shot to the chest, at close range,\u201d explained Ben then glanced up at his sons who had remained on their horses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAny idey who kilt him?\u201d Roy let the blanket down to cover the dead man\u2019s head and turned to his deputy. \u201cTake care of this for me, will ya Clem?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shuffled his feet in the dirt, hesitating to give out the information. He cut his eyes up at Adam and suddenly felt the pit of his stomach churn. Ben was forced to close his eyes, forcing the picture of his youngest son\u2019s face from his mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, you all right?\u201d asked Roy, seeing the strange expression that washed the color from his friend\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe man claimed that Joe shot him and left him for dead,\u201d stammered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat!\u201d Roy practically shouted. \u201cYa don\u2019t mean Little Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swung his long leg across his saddle and stepped up to Roy and his father. \u201cThat\u2019s right Roy, he said Little Joe, but the man was alyin\u2019, I know, I jist know he was. Little Joe wouldn\u2019t go around shootin\u2019 somebody and jist leave\u2019em to die like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff turned to Ben, noting the haggard look on Ben\u2019s tired face. \u201cLet\u2019s go into my office.\u201d Roy opened the door and allowed Ben and his son\u2019s to enter first and then followed, shutting the door firmly behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Ben, let\u2019s see if we can get to the bottom of this. Where is Little Joe and what does he have to say about how this happened?\u201d Roy seated himself at his desk as the others found seats in front of the desk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took a deep breath and slowly began from the beginning, starting with the day that Joe returned from the sale of his horses in Carson City. Joe had seemed irritated from the first day. Things hadn\u2019t gone as expected for him, he had not gotten the price he had hoped for, for the mustangs that he had worked so hard to round up and then break to saddle. He had argued with his brothers, constantly and had been short tempered with his father. Ben explained to the sheriff about Joe\u2019s meeting with the strange men when he should have been working the herd in the north pasture. Roy had been aware of the fight that had cost Ben a large sum of money to restore the saloon down the street. Ben explained that Joe had gotten angry with one of the new ranch hands and had even fought with the man, leaving the man\u2019s face bloody and bruised. He did inform Roy that Joe had, however, apologized to the man the next morning. Roy\u2019s dark brows drew downward when Hoss told him how Joe had mistreated his horse, leaving the animal standing in a sweat in the barn. His eyes turned dark as Adam explained about the morning that he had stepped into Joe\u2019s bedroom to wake him and Joe drew his pistol on his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Several moments passed before Roy found his voice. He stood to his feet and strolled to the window, peeking out at the people moving about on the street. Finally, he turned to Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, ya say ya don\u2019t have any idey where Little Joe is now?\u201d he asked, turning back to face the worried father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head. \u201cNo Roy, but I wish I had.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man\u2019s attention was drawn from the matter at hand by a ruckus down the street. Clem burst into the office, his face a mixture of excitement and anger rolled into one.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa better get out here Roy, that payroll that was supposed to come in on tomorrow\u2019s stage came in on today\u2019s. What\u2019s left of it,\u201d he added, stepping aside as Ben and his sons hurried to follow Roy from the office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Each man took off running down the street toward the stage depot. Jake was climbing down from the front. His face was dusty and dirty, his shirt had been ripped and blood oozed from a wound in his left arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam jerked opened the stage door and peered inside. Three men, the ones assigned to guard the shipment lay sprawled about on the seats. One man was dead, another was just about to join his comrade and the third was moaning loudly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened Jake?\u201d Hoss asked, helping the man down from his perch. \u201cThey come\u2019d outta nowhere. There were four of them; they surprised us just north of the cut off to Virginia City. We didn\u2019t have a chance, Mr. Cartwright. I\u2019m\u2026sorry about your money,\u201d stammered the weakened man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gently placed his hand on the man\u2019s arm. \u201cIt\u2019s all right Jake, you did the best you could.\u201d Turning, he called out. \u201cSomebody get this man to the doctor\u2019s.\u201d Several hands reached around the wounded stage driver and started to help take him to the doctor\u2019s office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJake,\u201d Roy called out. \u201cWhich way did they go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNorth, up toward the canyon,\u201d he managed to say before passing out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned to his father, pulling him off to the side. \u201cPa, how did they know that we switched days for the delivery of that payroll?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben seemed to suddenly snap to attention. \u201cThat\u2019s right son, how did they know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSounds to me like someone tipped them off,\u201d whispered Hoss who had joined his father and brother on the boardwalk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut who?\u201d Adam puzzled and then turned to stare into his father\u2019s anxious face. \u201cPa, do you think that the man you brought in today, might have had something to do this holdup?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd where\u2019s Little Joe, Pa\u2026ya don\u2019t reckon he might have found out somehow what was going to happen and tried to stop it do you? Could be why he shot that man,\u201d reasoned Hoss, taking every opportunity available to exonerate his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben brushed the back of his hand against Hoss\u2019 arm, \u201cThat might be so. Come on, we need to find Joseph. I found Bart up near that canyon that Jake was talking about, that means that Joe must have been in the same area. Come on, let\u2019s ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned to mount his horse but stopped when he felt the pressure of a hand on his arm. \u201cAre you and your boys riding with me, Ben? I\u2019m forming a posse,\u201d asked Roy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced into the faces of his sons and saw that they agreed. \u201cYou can count on us Roy. But we\u2019ll join you at the mouth of the canyon; I need to see if I can find Joe first. I have an idea that he\u2019s involved in all this mess somehow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll right Ben, I\u2019ll meet the three of you in about two hours at the canyon. Good luck,\u201d Roy added. \u201cOkay, men, let\u2019s mount up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben waited until the group of men moved clear away from them before turning to Adam and Hoss who had already mounted their horses. \u201cWhat are we gonna do, Pa?\u201d inquired Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going to find your brother.\u201d Ben swung into the saddle and turned Buck. \u201cLet\u2019s ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The posse rode quickly to the spot where the stage had been stopped. Roy and another man in the group dismounted and searched the area for any clues that might tell them who the men were. It didn\u2019t take long to figure out which direction the bandits had taken, tracks were everywhere and the posse rushed onward, following more carefully this time so as not to lose the trail.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Further along the path, Ben and his sons had picked up the bandit\u2019s trail as well. They had started out looking for Joe, but when they happened upon the tracks of the robbers they chose to follow, thinking that somehow their missing family member might have stumbled into trouble. They rode steadily, pushing their horses only slightly, always keeping their eyes open for signs that would tell them when the outlaws had varied from the trail.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss led the group; his keen eyes and natural tracking instinct automatically qualified him for the job. Ben followed behind his middle son and Adam brought up the rear, keeping a sharp lookout over his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss pulled his mount to a stop, raising his hand to signal for the others to remain silent. Quickly, Hoss slipped from his horse and crouched on the ground. He glanced back at his father and brother and motioned for them to join him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben squatted down next to Hoss and peered through the thick bushes at the band of men who stood around in a small clearing. The group of the men seemed to be arguing with the others. It was evident to the three men who watched that a fight was just about ready to break out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d Hoss nearly shouted as he pointed to a man who moved out from behind some large boulders and joined the group.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAm I seein\u2019 things, or is that Little Joe?\u201d he whispered in a hoarse voice, his blue eyes wide in wonder as they stared at the back of his younger brother. There was no denying the fact that the young man who had his back to them was indeed Joe, Hoss gulped and glanced at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s face went white, the color drained instantly and Adam noted that his father\u2019s hands had begun to tremble.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam knelt beside of this father, resting a hand on Ben\u2019s shoulder. He shook his head slowly and whispered; his voice deep with concern by what his eyes were seeing. \u201cPa, what in the world is Joe doing with this band of no-goods?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben turned to stare into his son\u2019s face, shaking his head as well. \u201cI don\u2019t know, I don\u2019t know,\u201d Ben stated and then turned to watch as voices began to grow in volume.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI say we divide the money now and go our separate ways,\u201d one man shouted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI agree with Mat, let\u2019s divide the money, split up. It\u2019ll make it harder for the posse to track us if we go in different directions,\u201d another man yelled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026ain\u2019t that Slim?\u201d whispered Hoss, pointing to the man who worked for them and who had claimed to have fought with Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure is, wonder how he is tied into this mess,\u201d Ben replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, we better do something, look, they\u2019re counting out the money,\u201d muttered Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben made a few movements with his hands, directing his sons to move to different spots where they could make a circle of sorts around the four men who were arguing amongst themselves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBe careful, Joe is in the middle of this,\u201d warned Ben as Adam and Hoss moved away from him to take their places among the bushes. \u201cI\u2019ll give the signal.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about you Cartwright, you gonna take your share?\u201d Slim asked Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced around at the men, \u201cYeah, I want what\u2019s due me,\u201d he smirked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man, who had been referred to as Mat, stepped forward, glaring angrily at Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright here don\u2019t get a share,\u201d he said in a voice that rang with venom. \u201cThe kid here tried to double cross us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The others stopped arguing and turned to hear what their partner had to say. Mat glanced around at his audience as his hand slipped unseen to his side resting lightly on his gun.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An evil grin spread across Mat\u2019s face. \u201cI\u2019ll give you what\u2019s due you. You tried to cheat us, remember the other day in the meadow, you were supposed to give us the time change, you lied Cartwright. If\u2019n it hadn\u2019t of been for Slim overhearing your old man and that high and mighty brother of yours talking about the switch, we\u2019d have never known that the stage was carrying the payroll a day early. You thought you were smart enough to fool us, well, this is what ya got comin\u2019 to ya.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mat pulled his gun from his holster and before Joe had time to react, fired two shots into his mid-section. Joe\u2019s eyes widened in horror as the bullets pierced his flesh. Bright red spots quickly soaked into his shirt as Joe tumbled to the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben began shooting. From the opposite side he could hear Hoss\u2019 gun and Adam\u2019s joined in. Ben\u2019s eyes remained on his fallen son, frightened beyond reason that his son lay dead. Several more shots where fired, from behind them, Ben heard loud shouting that told him that the posse had found them and were moving in on the band of men.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The fight was over almost as soon as it had begun. Two of the outlaws lay face down on the cold ground, Slim clutched his shoulder where a bullet had ripped open a gaping hole.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From the sidelines, Ben quickly made his way to his wounded son\u2019s side, stumbling in his haste to reach his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOSEPH!\u201d wept Ben as he gathered Joe into his arms. \u201cOh son,\u201d cried Ben, his eyes filling with tears as he stared in shock at the ashen face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss rushed to their father\u2019s side. Adam groaned as he pulled opened Joe\u2019s jacket and then the shirt beneath it, spying the blood that seeped from the two holes in the middle of his brother\u2019s stomach. Adam glanced up at his father, noting the anguish in the dark, tear filled eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow bad is it?\u201d asked Hoss, kneeling down next to Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head sadly, and glanced at Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u2026Is that you?\u201d the desperate plea was barely audible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph\u2026why son? Why?\u201d cried Ben as he cradled his son in his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben fought to control his tears, willing himself not to cry in front of his dying son. He had seen the two huge holes, the flesh ripped and torn, bleeding profusely. Ben knew that having been shot at such close range, into the gut, nothing could save his beloved son now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes fluttered as he struggled to maintain contact with his father. His hand searched for a handhold as it groped the air. Ben grabbed for the flailing hand and held it clutched tightly within his.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, son?\u201d begged Ben. He had to know why his son had deemed it necessary to steal from his own father, why he had left a wounded man to die, and why, oh why had he betrayed his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMo\u2026ney\u2026I needed\u2026the\u2026m\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s voice faded. His eyelids flickered slightly, the bloodied body arched as the life slipped from Ben\u2019s youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJOE!\u201d Hoss yelled as he shook the body of his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d screamed Ben from the top of his voice, his head tossed backward as he voiced his agony. \u201cNO! NOT MY BABY!\u201d he welled and then his upper body moved downward, covering the lifeless body of his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Huge teardrops slid slowly down Hoss\u2019 cheeks as he watched his father weeping. His huge shoulders heaved as Hoss\u2019 grief overtook him. Adam\u2019s face was buried in the palm of his hand as he willed himself to remain strong and steadfast for his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy motioned for Clem to gather the other bodies and the bandit who was left standing and transport them to the Virginia City jail. He stood silently, his heart beating rapidly as he watched his best friend, slowly slide his arms under his son\u2019s body and stand to his feet, Joe held lovingly within the folds of his father\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam placed a hand on Hoss\u2019 shoulder, bringing his brother\u2019s tear stained face upward to meet his. \u201cLet\u2019s go Hoss. Pa needs us,\u201d he muttered, helping his distraught brother to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had moved to his horse and had carefully laid Joe\u2019s body on the ground. He was removing his bedroll as his two older sons joined him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, let me do it for you,\u201d Adam softly said, trying to remove the blanket from his father\u2019s hands, which still trembled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shook his head and glanced down at the still form. \u201cI will take care of him, he\u2019s my son.\u201d Ben turned from Adam and spread the blanket opened next to the lifeless form. He squatted down, lovingly brushing back the dark curls from Joe\u2019s forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss stood in respectful silence as they watched their father caress the face of his youngest son. A sob caught in Hoss\u2019 throat as he looked into the solemn face of his grieving parent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d whispered Hoss as he started to kneel down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s hand brushed at the air behind him, halting Hoss\u2019 movements. Hoss cast anxious eyes back at Adam who slowly shook his head at his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben gently moved Joe\u2019s body onto the blanket, being as careful as he could. He reached slowly for first one side of the blanket and brought it across the chest, then repeated the process with the other side. Ben\u2019s tears dripped from his chin as he worked the rope around the corpse and formed neat knots that would ensure the blanket to remain in place during the long ride home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben brushed the tears from his eyes and motioned for Adam and Hoss to help him place the body across his son\u2019s saddle. Roy had found Joe\u2019s horse tied among the bushes where the thieves had tied theirs and he stood in remorseful silence as Adam and Hoss affixed their brother\u2019s body to the horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYa want me to take him for ya?\u201d he asked Adam softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head no as he took the reins from the sheriff\u2019s hand. \u201cNo, we\u2019ll take him home where he belongs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy heard the catch in Adam\u2019s voice as the oldest son struggled with his emotions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRoy, when you get back to town, will you have Doc Martin come out?\u201d Adam glanced at his father who sat like a statue on his horse. \u201cI think Pa\u2019s going to need some help getting through this,\u201d Adam glanced at his middle brother, Hoss had his head buried in Chubb\u2019s neck and was weeping. \u201cProbably Hoss too, Roy,\u201d Adam said sadly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The house was full of people; they were friends of the Cartwrights. Some were old friends that had known the family for many years; others were friends that had only just met the family of men who were now grieving for their lost loved one. Though the house was crowded with folks who milled around in silent tribute to Ben\u2019s loss, the big house was strangely quiet. An almost eerie gloom had engulfed the home, which just days before had been filled with happiness and the infectious sounds of laughter. Now Ben sat alone in the upstairs bedroom, alone with the body of his beloved son, which had been readied for burial. Ben had refused to allow anyone other than his two oldest sons and his faithful family servant, Hop Sing, to enter the room where Joe\u2019s body lay upon his father\u2019s bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had unlocked the door minutes before to allow his family to join him. Hop Sing moved quietly about the room; large tears seeped from his swollen, red rimmed eyes as he handed Ben a cup of hot coffee. Ben moved his head ever so slightly to gaze into the face of his housekeeper; his eyes clouded with misery, and slowly shook his head, refusing to accept the steaming brew.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes moved to the face of his son. His fingers gently toyed with the curls that adorned his youngest son\u2019s head. \u201cSo soft,\u201d he whispered to himself. \u201cAlways was so soft, and unruly,\u201d he laughed softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched his father\u2019s movement, heard the soft laughter that held no joy or happiness until the sight of the broken hearted man tore at his own heart and he was forced to turn away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe needs a hair cut, don\u2019t you think, Adam?\u201d muttered Ben, looking at but never seeing his oldest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam moved to the chair next to his father and placed his hand tenderly on his father\u2019s arm. \u201cYeah Pa, Little Joe needed a hair cut.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes sought his son\u2019s face. He held Adam\u2019s gaze for several moments before he broke. \u201cOh Adam\u2026he\u2019s gone\u2026he\u2019s really gone\u2026Oh GOD!\u201d welled Ben, \u201cHow will I ever live without him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam squeezed his father\u2019s arm; his free hand moved up and down the middle of Ben\u2019s back. \u201cI don\u2019t know Pa, but we\u2019ve got to try, Little Joe wouldn\u2019t want us to grieve our lives away, you know that. Come on Pa, pull yourself together, for his sake, please,\u201d pleaded Adam fighting back his own tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2019s right Pa, we gotta let them take his body to bury,\u201d Hoss choked out. \u201cIt\u2019s hot Pa, we\u2019re gonna have to take him up to the lake to be with his mama soon,\u201d Hoss continued.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoys right Mr. Cart\u2019lite\u2026Lil\u2019til Joe need to go be with his mother now. No longer able to keep boy\u2019s body here, please boss, let us bury the boy,\u201d Hop Sing pleaded, his tears rolling freely down his rosy cheeks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben brushed away the hands that had been trying to comfort him and stood to his feet. \u201cGet out\u2026all of you!\u201d he shouted, his deep voice ringing with deeper sorrow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOut I said, get out of here and leave me alone with him!\u201d Ben grabbed the door handle and jerked opened the door, \u201cGET OUT!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded his head at Hoss and Hop Sing, motioning for them to leave. As they proceeded from the room, Adam stopped in front of his father. Ben\u2019s glare was angry, undercoated with his grief and sorrow as he waited to be left alone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d started Adam, but stopped when he saw the tears build behind the chocolate coloring of his father\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust give me a few more minutes alone with him, please son, please.\u201d Ben\u2019s tears rolled past the rims, unable to hold back any longer before they made their way to the sides of Ben\u2019s face. \u201cPlease,\u201d Ben said one last time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gripped Ben\u2019s arm, more to steady himself than to comfort his father. \u201cOkay, Pa, but in a few minutes I\u2019ll be back and we\u2019ll take Joe to the lake. Okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Unable to speak, Ben nodded his head in agreement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Adam pulled the door closed to join Hoss and Hop Sing in the hallway, he glanced back at his father. Ben had moved to the side of the bed and had gathered the lifeless body of his brother into his arms. Ben began rocking slowly, back and forth, and Adam thought of the many times he had seen his father comfort his younger brother in this manner. As he shut the door, his father\u2019s deep voice could be heard singing softly, an old tune that Joe had always loved for his father to sing. Adam remembered the tune; My Sons, My Sons, <\/em>and Adam\u2019s heart skipped a beat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood between his two sons. Adam had made sure that he and Hoss stood on each side of their father, in case Ben needed help in remaining on his feet. Ben stood straight and tall, his mind seemed miles from where he stood, and his silence since allowing them to remove Joe\u2019s body from his bedroom, frightened both of Ben\u2019s surviving sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The minister had finished, the mourners were passing by, dropping small handfuls of dirt down into the grave; some dropped snips from brightly colored flowers. Friends and acquaintances stopped to offer their condolences to Ben and his sons, and shaking their hands in passing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy and Paul Martin waited a short distance behind where Ben stood between Adam and Hoss. Paul had slipped a powder into Ben\u2019s drink before coming to the graveside for the burial. Ben had not been himself, which was understandable, and Paul had feared that the despondent father might collapse before the end of the long service.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At long last, Ben turned from the opened grave. As he passed by Marie\u2019s headstone, his fingers gently brushed the cold stone, stopping Ben in his tracks. Ben cast sad eyes down to peer at the writing on the marker, a tear slipped unnoticed from the corner of his eye, as he muttered. \u201cTake care of him for me, Marie. I loved him, so very, very much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere ya headed Pa?\u201d Hoss asked as he entered the barn and found his father saddling his horse. \u201cPa? I asked where ya was headed?\u201d Hoss repeated when he received no answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss watched his father work, worry for his parent caused his brow to furrow as he waited until Ben forced Buck to back out of his stall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going for a ride, I\u2019ll be back later,\u201d Ben said softly, leading his horse into the warm sunshine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWant me to go along and keep ya company?\u201d Hoss asked hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had been two days since they had buried Joe and Ben had hardly said a word to either Adam or Hoss and both brothers were growing apprehensive that Ben was slowly withdrawing into himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO!\u201d shouted Ben. He placed his booted foot into the stirrup and paused, turning back to Hoss, unaware of the sadness that lay embedded deeply within the blue depths of his son\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry Hoss, I didn\u2019t mean to shout at you. But I am perfectly capable of taking a ride by myself.\u201d Ben swung the other leg over Buck\u2019s back. \u201cI\u2019ll be fine.\u201d Without another word to Hoss or an acknowledgment to Adam who had joined Hoss, Ben rode from the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGoing for another ride?\u201d questioned Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s what he said,\u201d Hoss replied turning for face Adam. \u201cYa reckon he rides up to the lake?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cProbably does Hoss. Something\u2019s not right, though,\u201d Adam said as he walked with Hoss back to the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m well aware of that, nothin\u2019s right anymore, not with\u2026not without Joe,\u201d stammered Hoss sadly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not what I meant big brother. Pa\u2019s acting strangely\u2026\u201d he held up his hand to stop Hoss\u2019 forthcoming comment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have seen him grieve before Hoss. Maybe because he\u2019s older now, but Pa isn\u2019t acting right, I mean, he told me at breakfast, while you were out in the barn, that it wasn\u2019t Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss spun around from the hearth where he had been standing after entering the house and faced Adam. \u201cWhat in blazes are you talkin\u2019 about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa came down to breakfast, he had a strange look on his face when he sat down and he just looked straight into my face and said, \u2018Adam, the boy wasn\u2019t Joe\u2019,\u201d explained Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss scrunched up his face and scratched his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI asked him what he meant, and he got mad at me, nearly bit my head off and said, \u2018I said, the boy wasn\u2019t Joe\u2019\u201d.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s he meanin\u2019 Adam, that Little Joe wasn\u2019t the one we buried? Who\u2019d he think it was for gosh sakes?\u201d pondered Hoss as he sat down in his father\u2019s red chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d Adam paced back and forth in front of the fireplace. \u201cLast night I heard him moving around in his room. A short time later, I heard him in Joe\u2019s room. When I went into Joe\u2019s room to see what he was doing, he was standing in front of the window, staring out at nothing. I asked him if he was all right, but he didn\u2019t answer me, just stood there like I didn\u2019t exist. I decided to leave him alone and as I was closing the door, he started mumbling.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019d he say?\u201d Hoss wanted to know. His concern for his father\u2019s physical health had been a growing issue with both brothers but now it seemed that they might have another worry to contend with, Ben\u2019s mental health.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was mumbling something about it not being Joe he kept repeating it over and over. Hoss,\u201d Adam stood to his feet, \u201cI think I\u2019d better ride into town and have a talk with the doctor. I\u2019m worried about Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go with you,\u201d said Hoss pivoting on his heels as he followed Adam to the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, please, you stay here in case Pa comes back. If he does, try to get him to lay down for a while, it might help to clear his mind. I know he hasn’t slept in several nights.\u201d Adam strapped on his sidearm and reached for his hat. His expression changed when he saw the misery on his brother\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s going to be okay Hoss,\u201d Adam said, placing his hand on his brother\u2019s broad shoulder. \u201cWe\u2019ll get through this, somehow\u2026I promise,\u201d he smiled weakly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, I know we will big brother, you go do what ya gotta, I\u2019ll wait on Pa,\u201d smiled Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time that Ben returned home late that evening, Adam and Hoss had all but worn themselves out pacing the floor. Their heads swiveled around at the sound of the door opening and each breathed a long sigh of relief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d said Adam, trying to control the tremors in his voice. \u201cDid you have a nice ride?\u201d he asked, hoping that the worry he had experienced did not show on his face. He sat calmly down in his blue chair and picked up his book, giving the impression that he had been doing just that.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben removed his hat and placed it on the peg behind the door. He undid his gunbelt and laid it on the credenza next to Adam\u2019s. He smiled slightly at his sons, surprising both young men.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swapped glances with Adam and then moved his attention back to his father. Ben seemed lost in thought as he settled himself into his chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, could we talk to you for a minute?\u201d Adam asked at last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced up at Adam, noting the worried expression and the look that had come into Hoss\u2019 face. \u201cIs something wrong?\u201d he asked looking from one son to the other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what we were wondering, Pa,\u201d Adam asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what you\u2019re talking about, son?\u201d Ben seemed truly puzzled by his son\u2019s question, which only added to the on growing fears of his two sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam moved from his blue chair to sit in front of his father on the wide boarded table. Taking a deep breath and casting anxious eyes at Hoss, Adam faced his father once more and placed his hand on his father\u2019s knee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, about Little Joe\u2026\u201d he began.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben quickly pushed Adam\u2019s hand away and stood to his feet. \u201cI don\u2019t want to talk about Joseph,\u201d he stated and moved away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned his head, his eyes following his father\u2019s movements. \u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNO! I will not discuss him or anything about what he was up to,\u201d shouted Ben, turning to glare at Hoss and Adam. \u201cWhat difference does it make now? He\u2019s gone isn\u2019t he? That\u2019s what both of you would like me to think, isn\u2019t it? Well, I\u2019m telling you, that boy was not my son!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, it was! You have to face the truth; Joe is dead\u2026do you understand that? Joe is DEAD!\u201d Adam shouted in return. \u201cFace it Pa, he gone, he\u2019s never coming back, and it was Joe that we buried!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss swiped the sleeve of his shirt across his nose. \u201cAdam, take it easy, boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s dark eyes clouded with tears as he continued to glare at his oldest son. His shoulders slumped and finally Ben dropped his head in surrender. \u201cI\u2019m sorry son,\u201d he wept.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam placed his hand on his father\u2019s arm. \u201cPa, it\u2019s okay. Hoss and I understand, we loved him too, but he\u2019s gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben raised his head. The haunted look in his face and the deep furrows that made him look much older than his years, tore at his son\u2019s heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben swallowed the lump that choked him. \u201cI know you think I\u2019ve lost my mind. I know that he\u2019s dead, he\u2019s gone, that he\u2019s never coming home, but tell that to my heart. It doesn\u2019t believe it when I\u2019ve said it. My heart tells me that Joe is coming home, that Joe\u2019s hurting and he needs me. At night when I place my head on my pillow and close my eyes, my heart hears his pleas, my eyes see his face, and I can feel his touch on my arm. I can smell him, Adam, my nose picks up his scent, and my ears hear his crying. Tell my heart that he\u2019s dead, Adam, convince it that I\u2019m wrong and you\u2019re right. Can you do that, can you?\u201d Ben muttered as he opened the door and stepped into the fresh air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took several deep breaths to still his pounding heart. He knew that his sons thought he had slipped from reality into a realm where he refused to face the truth. He knew they worried about him, and for that Ben was sorry. They were grief stricken; losing their baby brother had all but destroyed them, especially Hoss, for they had been closer than Adam and Joe. Though Adam and Joe had not always seen eye to eye on most issues, they had remained devoted to each other and had always managed to work out what problems they had with one another. Ben sighed; his heart refused to acknowledge the fact that his youngest son was lost to him forever.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben returned to the house. Adam and Hoss had already retired for the night. Ben slowly made his way to his room and once there dropped wearily onto his bed. He never bothered to remove his boots, he instead, laid down on top of the covers and closed his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tiny droplets of water eased their way slowly down the sides of his face. Ben\u2019s heart tried to draw him back into time, to the last few days before his son\u2019s death. Oh, how he ached to reach out and touch his son, to embrace the boy within the folds of his arms. His heart thumped rapidly as the ache increased to the point of forcing Ben from his bed. He moved slowly to the window and drew back the heavy drapes so that he could gaze out into the blackness of night. Ben sighed, \u201cIt wasn\u2019t my son,\u201d he muttered to his reflection in the window. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t my son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s about it Ben. Slim said that the idea to rob the stage and take your payroll was Joe\u2019s idea. He said Joe told them that he needed money, but wouldn\u2019t tell them why. Slim seemed to think that perhaps Joe might have owed someone for a gambling debt. In fact, he said he remembered the man you found shot having been in Carson City about the time that Joe took his horses over there. According to Slim, Clint was there with Joe, seems like Joe met up with the man in the saloon. From what I can make of the mess, that Bart fella that told you Joe shot him was coming to see Joe about some money Joe owed him,\u201d explained Roy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut so much money Roy? It doesn\u2019t make sense, why would Joe owe that much?\u201d questioned Adam as Ben listened with a sick heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis here IOU paper,\u201d Roy handed Ben the note, \u201csays that Joe owed Bart Timbers, that was the dead man\u2019s name that you found, Ben, about fifty thousand dollars.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT!\u201d shouted Ben, finally coming to his senses. \u201cThat\u2019s ludicrous,\u201d he yelled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took the paper from his father\u2019s hand and scanned over it. \u201cIt\u2019s right Pa, says right here that Joe owed the man fifty thousand dollars. And it sure looks like Joe\u2019s signature.\u201d Adam handed the note back to Ben and watched as Ben\u2019s eyes scanned the words for a second time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t understand, why would Joseph gamble away that kind of money? I know he gambled\u2026but fifty thousand dollars? It couldn\u2019t have been Joe, it just couldn\u2019t have,\u201d stammered Ben, lowering himself into the chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfter the men robbed the stage and got the money, they met back up with Joe, that\u2019s where you found them, Ben.\u201d Roy went on to explain. \u201cSlim swore that no one was supposed to get killed, he said that they agreed to help Joe steal the money, for a share. But then when the guards started shooting at them, they fired back. After they took the money, they got more concerned about getting hung for murder than they were about getting hauled off to jail for robbery. They got mad, Slim said that Mat told them that Joe had killed the man he owed money too, and that he didn\u2019t deserve a share of the loot since he didn\u2019t have to pay off his debt. That\u2019s when everything started to turn ugly, the men were not only wanted for murder but for armed robbery as well, so they turned on Joe,\u201d Roy finished with a deep breath. \u201cI\u2019m sorry Ben, real sorry about Little Joe. I wouldn\u2019t have thought he\u2019d do something like that, least ways steal from his own father and then kill a man to cover up a gambling debt.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stuffed the IOU into his pocket. \u201cThanks for coming out Roy,\u201d he said, making his way to the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy exchanged looks with Adam and Hoss and then picked up his hat, confused by his friend\u2019s behavior. \u201cBen,\u201d he began but then changed his mind.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see ya later,\u201d he nodded his head slightly at Hoss and Adam and had barely stepped free of the door before Ben closed it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t Joe,\u201d insisted Ben, giving his sons a defiant look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had taken about all he could take, his normally strong reserve shattered, along with his heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, you have to stop saying that\u2026of course it was Joe. I don\u2019t know why he did what he did, we may never know the truth, but it was Joe!\u201d ranted Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Ben said in a calm voice that surprised his sons. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t, it couldn\u2019t be, Joe would never do the things that Roy claims he did.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut he did them Pa. He gambled away a small fortune; he shot a man for whatever reasons and left that man to die. He robbed his own father and he\u2026\u201d Adam suddenly stopped. He looked at his father. Ben was staring at him, silently without uttering a word and the strange expression on his father\u2019s face unnerved him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know it doesn\u2019t make any sense Pa, but what other explanation could there be?\u201d he asked hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Hoss,\u201d Ben said calmly. \u201cDid you hear yourselves? Did either of you listen to what was being said? Do you both believe your brother capable of those things?\u201d he questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head sadly. \u201cI wouldn\u2019t have guessed him to do it, but Pa, they kilt him for it. We buried him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled slightly as he moved toward the stairs. \u201cGood night,\u201d he said, stopping on the landing and facing his two sons. \u201cAdam, I am his father. Don\u2019t you think that I would know if my son were dead or alive? At first I believed he was dead, I was in shock but now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, STOP IT!\u201d roared Adam. \u201cHe\u2019s gone Pa\u2026gone, God, why can\u2019t you accept it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2019s right Pa. As much as I would love to have that kid here with me, even I have to face the fact that Joe is dead. It hurts Pa,\u201d Hoss\u2019 voice began to tremble, \u201cbut it\u2019s God\u2019s truth, Joe\u2019s never comin\u2019 back to us, please Pa\u2026ya gotta own up to it!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s vision began to cloud as he watched the misery and pain that showed on his middle son\u2019s face. His heart felt as if it were being ripped from his chest as he watched Hoss struggle to pull himself together. Why wouldn\u2019t they believe him, his mind dared to ask. They really thought him mentally unable to accept the fact the Joe was lost forever to them. Well, proclaimed his heart, he would never give in to the sorrow and he vowed never to say aloud to anyone, that Joe was\u2026dead\u2026never, he repeated to himself as he ambled up the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ten days had passed since Joe\u2019s body had been laid to rest. It had been a long and tiring time for both Adam and Hoss. They had watched, as their father\u2019s health seemed to deteriorate daily right before their eyes. Ben had still refused to accept the fact that Joe was gone. Paul Martin had been sent for and after much discussion with Ben\u2019s sons, had started Ben on sleeping powders to help him rest. Paul had tried to assure the worried duo that time was the best medicine for their father and that hopefully Ben would return to something of his former self. Paul had to be honest with the boys when he explained that in all likelihood, Ben would never fully recover from his loss. Ben\u2019s heart had taken all the sorrow that it was capable of dealing with in a lifetime, what with the death of three wives, and now his youngest son. It was hard, even for a man of Ben\u2019s inner strength and determination. Some hurts never went away. Paul had explained to Adam and Hoss that some pain was rooted in a man\u2019s bones, glued to the remnants of a shattered heart. Ben was in denial, and might never see his way clear to fully face his loss. In Ben\u2019s heart, Joe lived on, and nothing that any of them could say or do would convince Ben\u2019s heart otherwise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben sipped his coffee. He had joined Hoss and Adam on the side porch for breakfast and he sat facing them. Both of his sons had taken to watching his every move, and though Ben tried to ignore them most of the time, it grated on his nerves. This morning though, Ben seemed rested, more at ease and he smiled giving each a warm greeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLooks like it\u2019s going to be another nice day,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced upward at the sky and then smiled at his father. \u201cSure \u2018nough does, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss sat facing Ben, their backs to the yard and nibbled slowly on the fresh baked biscuits that Hop Sing had made.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to move the herd down from the north pasture today, Pa, would you like to come along?\u201d questioned Adam, wiping the peach preserves from the corner of his mouth with his napkin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo thank you, son, I think I\u2019ll take a ride up to the lake this morning and see\u2026\u201d Ben paused, \u201cJoseph,\u201d he whispered the name so softly that both Adam and Hoss stopped chewing and looked at their father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben stammered again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss exchanged looks with his brother and then scooted back his chair as Ben stood to his feet. The color had drained from his father\u2019s cheeks, leaving Ben looking pale and sickly. His dark eyes deepened in color as they stared straight ahead, unblinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss watched the change sweep over their father and Adam reached across the table and touched his father\u2019s arm. \u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s eyes never moved. Adam noticed how large they had become and instantly he feared that his father had taken ill and might be suffering a heart attack or stroke. \u201cPa!\u201d Adam shook his father\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pulled his arm back, lifted it slightly and pointed. \u201cJoseph,\u201d he cried and pushed his way past Hoss who scrambled to get out of his father\u2019s way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both pair of eyes followed their father\u2019s movements as Ben rushed forward. It was then that they spied the filthy, dirt covered man who stood unmoving in front of the barn. His shirt was brown the color of the earth and lay in tatters about the man\u2019s shoulders. The mass of dark hair was littered with twigs and bits of leaves. The man\u2019s chest was cut and bruised, the ribs protruded from his sides as if he had been without food for several days. Boots were missing from the feet of the stranger and socks the color of mud covered the battered soles of the man\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man wore chains around his waist and his wrists where clamped tightly in shackles that prevented his arms from moving away from his sides. More shackles chained his ankles together with only a short chain between them. The man was forced to walk with tiny, short steps and he staggered slightly as he stood rooted to the spot, unable to will his body into taking another step.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Suddenly, just as Ben approached the man, the filth covered stranger dropped to his knees. Before Ben could reach out to break his fall, the man slumped forward as his face fell into the dust.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss rushed to their father\u2019s side. Ben gently gathered the tattered man into his arms, turning him carefully so that he might see the man\u2019s face. \u201cJoseph,\u201d Hoss and Adam heard their father say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced down at the face that was coated with dirt and dark bruises. There was a gash over one eye that still seeped blood. Ben\u2019s gentle hand brushed at the dust and tiny particles of dirt that had attached themselves to the blood coated face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cQuick, get me some water,\u201d ordered Ben, his eyes never venturing from the man\u2019s features.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss handed his father the dipper of water and as Ben held the man\u2019s head in a more upright position, Hoss helped to place the dipper to the parched lips. Slowly the lips parted and Hoss was able to allow a small amount of water to enter the man\u2019s mouth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, can you hear me?\u201d Ben beseeched, his hand gently patting the man\u2019s cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched his father\u2019s face, amazed at the sudden change it had taken. He touched his father\u2019s shoulder, and was surprised when Ben raised his head and gave him a small smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I\u2019m here son,\u201d soothed Ben, smiling as he glanced from one face to the other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s really him, Adam,\u201d Hoss choked out, his voice full of emotion. \u201cPa was right.\u201d Hoss grabbed Adam by the arm; \u201cPa was right, Adam!\u201d he smiled happily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026help\u2026me\u2026\u201d Joe cried weakly. His hand flailed about at his side imprisoned by the chain that kept him from seeking a touch that was familiar to him. Quickly Ben grasped his son\u2019s hand into his own and held it tightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here sweetheart, just lie still while we get something to get these chains off of you,\u201d Ben whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam\u2026\u201d Ben started.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m on my way.\u201d Adam quickly jumped to his feet and rushed into the barn. He was back in seconds with the tools needed to free his brother of the chains that held him prisoner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took several minutes for both Hoss and Adam to remove the constraints. When Joe was free at last, Ben pulled his son into his arms and held him against his chest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe moaned softly and then began to weep. \u201cShh\u2026it\u2019s okay, Joseph, you\u2019re home and you\u2019re safe now.\u201d Ben pressed Joe\u2019s head deeper into the softness of his leather vest. Joe\u2019s hand clung tightly, with what strength he could muster, on to his father\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHun\u2026gry,\u201d he uttered at last. \u201cEat\u2026please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe looks like he ain\u2019t had nuthin\u2019 to eat in days, Pa. Let me carry him inside, for you,\u201d offered Hoss as he started to take his brother from his father\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo! I\u2019ll carry him,\u201d Ben snapped as he raised Joe into his own arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe seemed to weigh nothing at all as Ben carried him into the house. Joe\u2019s eyes had seemed to fix themselves on his father\u2019s face. Ben could see the accumulations of tears that collected in the hazel depths, as Ben tenderly placed Joe on his bed. He had started to lay Joseph on the settee but thought better of it. He did not want to risk causing his son any more discomfort than absolutely necessary and Ben felt that if he had to move Joe a second time, it might prove too much for his weakened condition.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tears made their escape as Joe was placed onto the bed. Ben quickly wiped away their dampness as he knelt beside of his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSh\u2026it\u2019s okay Joe, we\u2019re going to get you something to eat, and get you cleaned up,\u201d whispered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026I\u2026\u201d Joe\u2019s voice faded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWant me to go for the doctor?\u201d asked Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, please hurry Hoss, Joe\u2019s hurting, though it could be from lack of food. There\u2019s no telling how long it\u2019s been since he\u2019s eaten,\u201d urged Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t be long. Ya hold on Short Shakes,\u201d whispered Hoss, giving his brother a wide grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe forced his lips into a smile and closed his eyes. \u201cTired\u2026\u201d he muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was as if Hop Sing could read minds. Shortly after Ben had placed Joe in his bed, Hop Sing announced that a hot steamy bath water was being brought up. His miracle cure broth was warming on the stove in the kitchen and Hop Sing promised that by the time Ben and Adam finished with bathing Joe, the broth would be ready.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced down at his sleeping son and flashed Adam a smile that reflected his happiness in his dark eyes. Ben began to remove the remnants of Joe\u2019s shirt as Adam gently pulled the soil-crusted socks from his brother\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe moaned softly as together, Ben and Adam gently raised Joe\u2019s upper body so that Ben could completely remove the shirt. His long lashes fluttered and for just a moment, his eyes opened and he smiled at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d Joe smiled as his fingers gently brushed against his father\u2019s chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben took the dirty hand into his own and kissed Joe\u2019s fingertips. \u201cRest Joseph\u2026your brother and I are going to get you cleaned up so you\u2019ll feel better,\u201d Ben said softly as he watched Joe close his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026tired\u2026hungry,\u201d muttered Joe in a weak voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Hop Sing is fixing you something\u2026\u201d Ben\u2019s voice dwindled away as he watched his son\u2019s expression soften in sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s exhausted Adam. Let\u2019s get him bathed so that he can rest better. When he wakes up again, we can feed him,\u201d whispered Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam placed the china bowl of warm, soapy water on the bed where he and his father could both reach it. Ben wet the cloth and gently began removing the dirt and grime from the sleeping boy\u2019s face. He took his time, cleaning carefully around the gash over Joe\u2019s eye. After wiping away most of the dirt, the cut was not as bad as first thought and Ben sighed in relief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Moving from his face and neck, after being sure he had washed behind Joe\u2019s ears, Ben washed Joe\u2019s arms and chest. With Adam\u2019s help, they raised Joe and washed the grime from his back. Where Ben washed, Adam followed with a soft towel, being sure to dry his brother\u2019s skin with care so as to avoid Joe getting chilled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook at his ribs, Pa,\u201d Adam said in a low voice as he towel dried Joe. \u201cIt must have been days since he\u2019s had something to eat.\u201d Adam could hardly bring himself to look at Joe\u2019s body and the way in which it had deteriorated in just a matter of a few days. Adam knew how Joe had worked to keep his body in shape and now as he gazed at the shrunken form, he could feel nothing but pity for his brother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe must have suffered something terrible,\u201d he half muttered to himself. Adam brushed the thoughts and images of his brother\u2019s misery from his mind, there were more important things to tend to right now. That suffering was now in the past, what Adam hoped now was to work on the future and help his brother get well, regardless of the time and cost it might take. They were lucky just to have him back, to know that he would be with them again and hopefully soon would be back to pestering all of them as before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben traced the outline of his son\u2019s ribcage. A look of misery crossed his face momentarily and then disappeared as Joe shivered from the sensation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBetter hurry with this bath, he\u2019s getting cold,\u201d urged Ben, the expression on his face relaxing somewhat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben moved the warm rag to Joe\u2019s lower extremities and carefully continued with Joe\u2019s bath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa,\u201d said Adam as his hands followed his father\u2019s with the drying towel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up briefly but kept working. \u201cSomething on your mind, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026I\u2019m sorry\u2026I owe you an apology,\u201d Adam said, glancing at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stopped, his hands dipping into the washbasin and looked at his oldest son. \u201cDon\u2019t worry about it son, I understand.\u201d Ben returned to his task.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know but\u2026I shouldn\u2019t have doubted you, Pa\u2026I mean\u2026I thought you were\u2026\u201d Adam hesitated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled, \u201cI know what you thought son, and it\u2019s okay\u2026I think I was beginning to have my own doubts about myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dropped his head slightly, \u201cThanks Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Ben\u2019s eyes darted to Joe\u2019s face, surprised to find his eyes opened and watching them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026hello,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m freezing\u2026and I\u2019m\u2026starving\u2026\u201d smiled Joe, weakly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCover boy up\u2026Hop Sing have soup ready\u2026move out of way\u2026please boss, I feed favorite number three son,\u201d ordered Hop Sing as he gently elbowed his way to the side of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Ben laughed and quickly moved the basin of water and covered Joe with the warm blankets and fluffed his pillows. Ben brushed his hand along the side of Joe\u2019s cheek and smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWelcome back, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing moved from the side of the bed and placed the tray on the night table, smiling in satisfaction. As he turned, he smiled up at his boss; his dark almond shaped eyes misted with unshed tears as he glanced back at his favorite son that had fallen asleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBoy rest now. Much tired,\u201d he muttered softly to Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he is much tired,\u201d Ben returned the smile. \u201cThank you, Hop Sing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo problem, Hop Sing glad to have boy home. Heart no longer broken, no more hurt in chest,\u201d he whispered to Ben. \u201cLil\u2019til Joe get better now, eat good, sleep much, be old self soon. I go now, make more soup for boy.\u201d Hop Sing bowed graciously to Ben and padded quietly from the room, carrying the tray with him as he went out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben made himself comfortable in the chair next to the bed. He would remain by his son\u2019s side while he slept and would be there when Hoss returned with the doctor. Ben had carefully checked Joe\u2019s body for broken or cracked bones but there appeared not to have been any. He and Adam had only found the small cut over Joe\u2019s eye, several scrapes and a multitude of bruises in a variety of shapes, sizes and coloring. Some of the discoloration was several days old; others were fresher, probably happening when Joe had made his way home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben wondered where his son had been held prisoner, he estimated the days to number close to two weeks, and from what he could tell of Joe\u2019s body, Joe had not had much to eat in those days. Ben knew that it would take a long period of time for Joe\u2019s body to return to the healthy state that it had been in before Joe had come up missing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Glancing at Joe who had begun to toss and turn in his sleep, Ben could only wonder about his unanswered questions. Joe moaned softly as Ben leaned down against the edge of the bed. His fingers gently caressed his son\u2019s arm, and when he took his son\u2019s hand in his and gently squeezed, Joe instantly stopped his thrashing about.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShh\u2026relax, Joseph,\u201d Ben whispered softly, brushing the hair back from the boy\u2019s brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled; it had always been like that between his father and his younger brother. For Joe it was either the tender touch of his father\u2019s hand, or the soft comforting sound of his father\u2019s voice that worked like magic to still Joe\u2019s ceaseless murmuring. For Ben, it was the sound of Joe\u2019s voice calling out to him or the infectious ringing of Joe\u2019s laughter that brought peace and reassurance to Ben\u2019s soul when it was troubled. Love held their world entwined as one, for one without the other was only half of the whole. Adam had seen with his own eyes, how his father\u2019s half had crumbled without Joe\u2019s half. Adam felt his body shudder as the thoughts of what would have become of his father, had Joe not somehow miraculously been given a second chance at life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A soft tapping on the door wrestled Adam free from his thoughts. He quickly set his book aside and glanced at his father, Ben was dozing in the chair. The door pushed opened slowly as Adam moved to welcome the doctor and Hoss who had just returned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, how is he?\u201d greeted Paul Martin. Instantly his eyes traveled to the bed where Joe laid buried beneath the thick pile of blankets. He moved to Ben\u2019s chair and lightly placed his hand on his friend\u2019s shoulder. \u201cBen,\u201d he said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben instantly woke from his nap and jumped to his feet. \u201cPaul, hello. Thank you for coming,\u201d whispered Ben, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. \u201cI must have fallen to sleep,\u201d he grinned sheepishly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s fine, I\u2019m sure you could use some rest. How\u2019s our boy? Anything broken this time that you know of?\u201d the doctor inquired as he sat on the bed next to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, we couldn\u2019t find anything, just a cut above the eye, there,\u201d Ben informed the physician.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul pressed the back of his hand to Joe\u2019s forehead, nodding. \u201cGood, no fever. Has he been awake at all, Hoss said he was out cold by the time that you brought him upstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he talked to us, just a few words. He was tired and hungry more than anything else,\u201d Ben supplied the needed information.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd dirty,\u201d added Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he was filthy. He looked like he hadn\u2019t had a drop of water on him in several days. Oh, he was chained when he got here, he has some bad chafing around his wrists and ankles,\u201d Ben finished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Adam had stood silently in the back ground, watching the doctor as he made his examination of their brother. His hands moved in expertise fashion as they traveled over Joe\u2019s body, stopping to gently run his fingers about Joe\u2019s ribcage. Ben watched the physician\u2019s expression as Paul shook his head and sighed deeply, knowing that the good doctor was not pleased with the amount of weight that his young patient had lost.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul\u2019s hands continued their downward exploration of his patient until he had managed to work his way from Joe\u2019s head to the bottom of Joe\u2019s feet. Once or twice Joe\u2019s body arched slightly as if in pain, but Paul could find nothing seriously wrong other than the bruises that appeared to blemish Joe\u2019s body.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I\u2019d say you have one lucky boy here,\u201d he smiled as he placed Joe\u2019s arms under the blankets. \u201cNormally, most men would not have survived this long without proper nourishment. But then we are talking about Joe Cartwright, aren\u2019t we?\u201d he laughed softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m here son,\u201d said Ben, quickly moving to his son\u2019s side. \u201cThe doctor just finished looking you over. He said\u2026\u201d Ben turned back to Paul, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth, \u201cwhat did you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul moved back to the side of the bed. \u201cI was just about to say that Joe needs to stay in the bed\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026\u201d groaned Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph,\u201d Ben gently chided.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, as always, you amaze me. I don\u2019t know how you do it, but you have beaten the odds again. Now you listen to me. I want you to stay in this bed, until I tell you, you can get out of it. I want you to eat what Hop Sing brings in here. I know, at first you won\u2019t feel like you\u2019re able to eat a lot, I don\u2019t expect you to. But I do expect you to eat something, each time it is offered to you. The more nourishment you take in Joe, and the more rest you get, the sooner we\u2019ll have you out of this bed and on your feet again. Do you understand me?\u201d Paul instructed as he waited for his answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure doc, anything you say,\u201d Joe grinned. \u201cI\u2019m too tired right now to argue with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, then go to sleep,\u201d laughed the doctor. Paul turned to Ben. \u201cI\u2019m going to leave you some powders to help him sleep. I mean it Ben, he needs plenty of rest and good food.\u201d Paul closed up his black bag. \u201cI\u2019m leaving some of this medicated salve to put around his wrists and ankles. You should see some improvement in a day or two. Make him follow my orders, Papa. I\u2019ll be back in a day or two.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam walked to the door with Paul, thanking him for coming out when they needed him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I wasn\u2019t kidding when I said that Joe was lucky to be alive. Just by looking at him, it\u2019s easy to see that he\u2019s had to struggle hard. His eyes are sunken in; there are black circles beneath them. His skin is dry from not having enough liquids in his system. Honestly, I don\u2019t know how the boy made it home.\u201d Paul reached for his hat and stood aside as Adam opened the door for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoc, I don\u2019t know how he did it either, I\u2019m just glad that he did. I can\u2019t believe that I didn\u2019t know that other guy wasn\u2019t my brother. I would have never known, I mean, I would always have thought that Pa\u2019s mind was unable to believe what I claimed to be fact. Even Hoss didn\u2019t know, but Pa\u2026well\u2026I suppose he must have sensed it after a few days. I mean at first, even he believed it to be Joe that we watched get shot and then die. He died in Pa\u2019s arms, and Paul, whoever he was, called our father, Pa. What were we suppose to think?\u201d Adam rambled as he walked to the buggy with the physician.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou thought what you had to, Adam. We all thought it was Joe and we all assumed that Ben had\u2026well\u2026that his mind had slipped, even Roy.\u201d Paul pulled himself up into the seat of the surrey. \u201cDo you have any idea who the kid was?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head. \u201cI don\u2019t, Pa might, but he hasn\u2019t asked Joe about it. Joe\u2019s been sleeping most of the day, since we got him home. He\u2019s just too weak to tell us anything right now. I\u2019m sure Pa will ask him all kinds of questions once Joe\u2019s feeling better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good luck. I\u2019ll be out\u2026hmm\u2026I think I\u2019ll ride out late tomorrow. You be sure that scamp does like I ordered!\u201d laughed Paul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, I have a suspicion that Pa won\u2019t be far from Joe\u2019s bedside,\u201d said Adam with a slight grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam\u2019s assumption of his father had been correct. For several days, Ben remained faithful to his duty of caring for his son. Slowly as the days passed, Joe began to regain his strength and with each day, his naps became shorter and shorter. His appetite improved and he had obeyed the doctor\u2019s orders to eat at least a few bites each time that Hop Sing brought him a tray.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen can I get outta this bed, Pa?\u201d pleaded Joe, his back propped against an assortment of pillows. \u201cI can\u2019t take this much longer\u2026please\u2026just let me go downstairs for a little while. I promise I won\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo Joseph, I\u2019ve already told you, you have to wait until Paul gives you the okay. Now that\u2019s final,\u201d scolded Ben gently as he made himself comfortable in the chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was getting harder and harder with each passing day to keep his son restrained to the bed. Joe was normally a very active young man and to be confined to a sick bed for days at a time, often led to the boy becoming bored and with boredom came a restlessness that forced the boy to be short-tempered and ill with everyone that came near him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2026come on\u2026just for a\u2026\u201d he squirmed around, trying to bring his legs to the side of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His father sprang to his feet, lifting the covers and pushing Joe\u2019s legs back onto the bed. \u201cJoseph, that will be enough, now get back in that bed!\u201d Ben scolded more harshly this time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSon, the doctor will be here in just a little while. I promise you, if he says you can get up, I will let you go downstairs, but please, be patient until he gets here.\u201d Ben fumbled with the blankets and seeing Joe press his back into the pillows once again, returned to his seat near the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, why don\u2019t you tell me how you happened to end up in chains? Who was the man I buried? Do you have any idea?\u201d questioned Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had been wanting to have answers to his questions for several days, but until now had felt that it might put Joe into too much distress. He and Adam had talked a lot about who they suspected, even Hoss had his own ideas who the man could have been, but even with the three of them, they were not able to draw a solid conclusion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you feel up to talking about it, son?\u201d asked Ben, watching Joe\u2019s face for any signs that Joe might be too tired or stressed out to discuss the situation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey little brother,\u201d called Hoss before Joe had a chance to respond to this father\u2019s question.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi Hoss, hey Adam, come for a visit?\u201d smiled Joe, glad for the added company.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust for a few minutes, we have chores to do,\u201d smiled Adam, \u201cwhich happens to take longer now that we have to do yours as well,\u201d he teased.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry,\u201d smiled Joe. \u201cI\u2019ll make it up to you when the warden over here let\u2019s me get out of bed,\u201d giggled Joe, giving his father a quick glance to check for a reaction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have you riding fence soon enough Joseph, and then you\u2019ll be begging me to let you sleep,\u201d teased Ben in return.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben motioned for Adam and Hoss to sit down. \u201cI think Joe was just about ready to tell me about how he ended up in chains.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, how did ya Little Joe? Who was that kid? And why was he ausin\u2019 your name? And\u2026.\u201d began Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold on, hold on, give him time to answer the first question,\u201d reprimanded Adam gently, smiling at his middle brother. \u201cStart from the beginning Joe, from the time you left here with your horses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, but some of it is kinda scratchy\u2026some I don\u2019t remember at all,\u201d he said as he looked around the room at his family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust tell us what you do remember, son. Take your time,\u201d urged Ben giving Joe a reassuring pat on the arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe took a deep breath. \u201cI left here with my horses headed for Carson City. Somewhere along the way, I was jumped by two men; I heard them call themselves Clint and Mat. I fought with them for a few minutes but then one of them hit me with something and I blacked out. I don\u2019t know how long I was out, but it must have been a good while, cause when I came to, I was wearing chains and someone had taken my clothes and left me the rags I wore home. I didn\u2019t know where I was, only that it was cold and damp. It took me some time to collect my senses and by the time I could think straight, I realized that I was in an old abandoned mining shaft somewhere. They had chained my wrists to my waist and then shackled my ankles.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe gulped and dropped his head, the memory still fresh in his mind. He felt his body begin to tremble and glanced at his father for comfort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake your time, son.\u201d Ben had seen the look in his son\u2019s eyes and knew that Joe was reliving his experience in the darkened tunnel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, after that things get sorta jumbled up. I knew that new man Slim that Adam hired last month was in on it. He was sent to spy on us Pa, he told them every move that one of us made. He came to the hideout one day to have a meeting with his cohorts; that was how I found out what was going on. They thought I was asleep. Slim let it slip that Angus Borden was using my name all over Carson City. Angus wouldn\u2019t let his men call him by his real name, he threatened to kill the man who didn\u2019t refer to him as Joe Cartwright.\u201d Joe stopped to collect his thoughts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSeems like he sold my horses, and used that money to start gambling with some man named Bart Timbers. Angus lost big time to the man, but since Timbers claimed that he knew the Cartwright name and reputation, he agreed to let Angus sign an IOU, using my name. I heard Slim telling Clint and Mat that Angus lost over fifty thousand dollars to Timbers. I guess somehow Timbers found out that Angus wasn\u2019t who he claimed he was and then went looking for him. Clint waited until Angus went to meet the man, supposedly to pay him off with your payroll money that Clint, Mat, and Slim stole from the stage. But instead of paying him, Angus got greedy and decided to kill the man instead, that\u2019s when he shot Timbers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhew\u2026\u201d blew Hoss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAngus Borden\u2026I thought he was dead, I mean after we had that trouble over at Ft. Meade, I just figured he stood before the firing squad. He must have escaped,\u201d Ben laughed softly, \u201cI should have said, he escaped.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, one thing I don\u2019t understand,\u201d Joe said hesitantly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben leaned forward and put his hand on his son\u2019s arm. \u201cJoseph, I know what you\u2019re going to ask. You want to know why I couldn\u2019t tell Angus and you apart.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced up, worries written on his face and nodded his head at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFirst off son, Angus had changed during the last year. He cleaned himself up, shaved his mustache and learned to use his left hand. He even learned to talk more like you. The only thing that baffled me, well, all of us really, was his behavior when he came back, supposedly from the sale and was so angry all of the time. As for his looks, I didn\u2019t catch on to anything, and neither did Hoss,\u201d Ben explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s right Joe, didn\u2019t you see him at all? He looked like it was you right here with us,\u201d Hoss explained. He hung his head; \u201cI\u2019m sorry Short Shanks\u2026I should\u2019ve known better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t see him, I only know what they said about him. It\u2019s okay Hoss, really.\u201d Joe turned to his father. \u201cPa\u2026I was scared\u2026I mean when I found out it was Angus Borden\u2026I knew he was up to no good, but I couldn\u2019t do anything to warn you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it wasn\u2019t your fault, we were all fooled. Especially Hoss and I, as for your older brother, Adam had never seen him before, so naturally he wouldn\u2019t have reason to suspect anything out of the ordinary, other than his behavior,\u201d Ben went on to add.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo on Joe, how did you get loose from the chains?\u201d Adam questioned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe day they left to rob the stage and take the payroll, they laughed at me. Clint and Mat said that they didn\u2019t trust Angus, so they were planning on killing him. They couldn\u2019t leave me around to tell the truth so they decided to kill me as well. Problem was, they were half afraid to actually shoot a Cartwright, so they decided to leave me there to starve to death.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe began to tremble. He had dropped his head again, unable to meet his family\u2019s faces. Ben saw Joe gulp and wipe away unshed tears before continuing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey left me down in that dark hole, with nothing, no food, no water, no light. I\u2026I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe swallowed and looked around at the anxious faces that watched him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI got so hungry and thirsty\u2026I thought I was going to die. They had my chains chained to the tracks so that I couldn\u2019t get away. Lucky for me they picked a spot where the tracks had rusted and had about separated from the ground. I was finally able to get the chain free and then had to make my way out of the tunnel. It wasn\u2019t easy, with the shackles and all. I knew in order to live, I would have to walk home or try to find help, and food. I found berries but couldn\u2019t pick them very well with my wrists chained to my waist, so I had to drop them on the ground and eat them like a dog\u2026when I finally found a water hole, I had to lie on the ground and drink.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben moved to sit on the bed beside his son whose voice had begun to quiver. \u201cJoe, you don\u2019t have to go on son\u2026we get the gist of things,\u201d soothed Ben as he slipped his arm about the trembling body and gently pushed Joe\u2019s head onto his shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI found Timbers shortly after Angus shot him. He was still alive but died minutes later in my arms. I was able to ask him who shot him and he told me Joe Cartwright. You should have seen my face, I must have looked as white as a ghost. He died before being able to tell me anything more. I brought him home first and then the three of us took his body into town to the sheriff\u2019s, it was then that the stage pulled in and told us it had been robbed. I couldn\u2019t figure out at first how they knew we had changed the day of delivery, but now I suppose Slim must have told them. How else would they have known?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced at Adam and then Hoss. \u201cHe must have overheard us talking, it was our faults for not being more discreet. It won\u2019t happen again, not after nearly loosing my son.\u201d Ben gently squeezed Joe and Joe returned the gesture with a warm smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt must have been a shock to you, to think I was dead,\u201d muttered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph, when I saw that man shoot you, I\u2026well I cannot tell you what raced through my heart. Then when you died in my arms, I was beside myself\u2026I thought I was going to die. Son\u2026\u201d Ben choked up, his emotions overwhelming him to the point of prohibiting him from being able to speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa,\u201d whispered Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have nothing to be sorry for, son. I\u2019m the one who thought you dead\u2026well at first. Later, your brothers thought I had lost my mind, they believed you died, and justly so. They had no idea, no hints of anything that would convince them otherwise. They almost had me convinced as well, but my heart kept telling me that is wasn\u2019t so. By all reasoning, there was nothing to contradict what they were telling me, except one thing\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that was?\u201d asked Adam softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe fact that I never believed Joe capable of doing those things that everyone claimed he was doing. Mind you now, I couldn\u2019t explain to anyone, why you would have been doing them Joseph, only that I didn’t think it probable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah Joe, Adam and I thought that Pa had lost his mind, I mean, he was always goin\u2019 around muttering that it wasn\u2019t his son. He even had the doctor thinking he was goin\u2019 crazy,\u201d said Hoss gloomily as he cast his eyes at his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben laughed, \u201cI suppose it did seem as if I were crazy, but that\u2019s over now. We have Joseph back, all in one piece and now everything can get back to normal,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have one thing left to do, Pa,\u201d Adam remarked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to exhume Borden\u2019s body and remove the headstone. That is, unless Joe wants to leave it there?\u201d he said in mock seriousness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo way! Do you think I want to ride up there and see that thing everyday for the rest of my life? Take it down\u2026please Pa\u2026please!\u201d Joe moaned, giving his father a pitiful look.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Adam and Hoss started to laugh at the expression on the youngest Cartwright\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, of course we will take it down, in fact\u2026I think Adam can have that job, since he brought the matter up,\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHa! Serves ya right, big brother,\u201d Hoss snickered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you Hoss,\u201d Ben continued, \u201cCan help the undertaker dig up Angus!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw shucks, Pa\u2026it\u2019s so hot, why I\u2019ll probably fade away into nothin\u2019,\u201d Hoss complained in good sportsmanship.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe started giggling. Ben glanced down at his son, happy to hear once again the merry sound of his son\u2019s laughter. Hoss looked beseechingly at his older brother and then at his father who still sat beside Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are ya goin\u2019 to do, Pa?\u201d he questioned hopefully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMe? I\u2019m going to ride into town and send a wire to Sgt. O\u2019Rourke and tell him to come get his prisoner.\u201d Ben rose from the bed, smiling at his sons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou, young man,\u201d he pointed his finger at Joe, his smile reflecting the joy he felt in his heart and soul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Pa? What can I do?\u201d Joe asked eagerly, already beginning to push back the covers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben placed his hand over Joe\u2019s, stopping him from tossing back the blankets. \u201cYou can take a nap, now lie down,\u201d Ben ordered, gently forcing Joe back against the pillows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw\u2026come on Pa, a nap?\u201d complained Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEnjoy it little brother, in a few days, I have to go to San Francisco on business, and you have to be able to do my<\/em> chores for a whole week.\u201d Adam turned on his heels and walked to the door. \u201cSweet dreams, Little Joe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe groaned and grabbed his pillow, slinging it at Adam\u2019s back. Adam\u2019s deep laughter could be heard all the way down the hall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben couldn\u2019t help but laugh again. He picked up the pillow and placed it back on the bed. \u201cLet\u2019s go Hoss, we have work to do. Joe, Hop Sing will be right here if you need anything. Must I remind you that you are forbidden to get out of that bed?\u201d He narrowed his eyes, giving emphasis to his verbal warning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss snickered as he inched toward the door in front of his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo sir. I won\u2019t get up, I promise,\u201d Joe muttered, his head down to hide the smile that toyed at his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee that you don\u2019t,\u201d Ben said as he reached the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stopped, placing his hand on the heavy oak door and smiled back at his son. Joe was staring at him, a strange look on his face that quickly wiped Ben\u2019s smile from his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs something wrong, son?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shook his head slightly and dropped his head again. \u201cDon\u2019t be too long\u2026okay Pa?\u201d he asked, glancing up. \u201cI mean\u2026I\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWould you rather I not go? I could send Charlie in with a written message,\u201d suggested Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWould you mind? I\u2026I think I could nap better\u2026knowing you were somewhere in the house\u2026with me,\u201d Joe said softly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t mind, I\u2019ll write out the message and give it to Charlie. How about if I come sit with you for awhile\u2026just until you fall asleep?\u201d smiled Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThanks Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben slipped from the room. It was then that he understood his son\u2019s reluctance to be left alone. Joe had been frightened by his experience, frightened by being chained and left all alone to die a horrible death. He had suffered from nightmares since coming home, but they, as with his other injuries were at last beginning to fade away. Yet the fear of being left still tugged at his inner most self, and Ben knew that it would take time for Joe to feel completely safe once more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben hurried to write out his message and after giving Charlie instructions about who and where to send it, returned to the house. As he eased opened Joe\u2019s bedroom door, he smiled. Joe lay curled beneath his blankets, looking much as he had when he had been but a small boy. Ben\u2019s heart skipped a beat as he brushed back the curls from Joe\u2019s face. His son was home, living and breathing and Ben whispered a prayerful thank you that he would have many more years to enjoy his youngest son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben made himself comfortable in the chair and leaned his head against the back the cushion. Glancing again at Joe, Ben sighed and began to hum\u2026my sons, my sons, your heartbeat is mine, my sons, my sons\u2026your heartbeat\u2026is mine!<\/em><\/p>\n

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

The End<\/strong><\/p>\n

January 2003<\/strong><\/p>\n

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

Summary:\u00a0 When Little Joe returns from a horse sale in Carson City that did not go well for him, his family notices a difference in his personality. Not sure why Joe acts the way he does, his family struggles to understand before Joe winds up destroying himself and his family’s good name.<\/p>\n

Rated: PG (20,400 words)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9052,"featured_media":9860,"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-12112","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":2467,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/10\/feature-4.jpg?fit=387%2C387&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":12750,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12750","url_meta":{"origin":12112,"position":0},"title":"A Modern Cartwrights Story #3 – A Quarter\u2019s Worth of Glory: Joe in the Infernal Machine (by Robin)","author":"profrobinw","date":"January 23, 2015","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 Headlines ripped from the daily newspaper in this modern era tale of the Cartwrights. Rating:\u00a0 K+\u00a0 (775 word) A Modern Cartwright Story Series, links to stories within the series are included.","rel":"","context":"In "Alternate Universe"","block_context":{"text":"Alternate Universe","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?cat=7"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"","width":0,"height":0},"classes":[]},{"id":12911,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=12911","url_meta":{"origin":12112,"position":1},"title":"The Stranger – A Missing Scene (by Jenny G)","author":"Gwynne & JennyG","date":"January 11, 2003","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary:\u00a0 What followed when Roy released Little Joe from jail. 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(by AC1830)","author":"AC1830","date":"January 17, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary - Why is Adam in the dirt at Hoss' feet?\u00a0 Hoss is not going to like the answer.\u00a0 Rating - K, WC - 823","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\/2018\/01\/Adam-on-his-back-The-Ape.png?fit=620%2C470&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Adam-on-his-back-The-Ape.png?fit=620%2C470&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Adam-on-his-back-The-Ape.png?fit=620%2C470&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":18622,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=18622","url_meta":{"origin":12112,"position":5},"title":"The Dead of Night (by PSW)","author":"PSW","date":"October 16, 2018","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: Little Joe has an unsettling night.\u00a0 Written for the October 15 Pinecone challenge, and expanded a bit for the Halloween Challenge. 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